Colorado Parent October 2023

TRICK-OR-TREATING WITHOUT ADULTS

Utilize these four tips to discover whether or not your child is ready to go trick-ortreating without you.

HALLOWEEN FILMS

THE KIDDOS CAN ENJOY

5 kid-friendly classics the whole family can enjoy this spooky season.

HOW TO OVERCOME

MENTAL FATIGUE

Use these strategies to help give your brain a break.

THE POWER OF MUSIC

A fun way to positively impact your child’s growth is through music! From jamming out in the car on the way to school to putting on soft music while your teen studies, music can positively impact a child’s confidence, help them express themselves, and encourage out-of-the-box thinking.

PUBLISHER

Amy Foreman

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Brandon Foreman

SENIOR EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR

Alexis Alexander

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Director of Operations

Laurie Acosta

Client Relations Coordinator

Sarah Miller

Accounting Coordinator

Brittany Duplessis

EDITORIAL

Managing Editor

Amanda Miller

Associate Editors

Austria Cohn

Madison Voorhies

Editorial Intern

Lauren Taeko Chase

ART/PRODUCTION

Senior Graphic Designer

Grace Knox

Graphic Designers

Madison Graham

Alex Herring

ADVERTISING Account Executives

Crystal Barrett Camille Cavin

Jade Gray

Jennifer Hoffmann

Martine Melancon

Ryn Whiteside

MARKETING

Marketing Specialist

Schuyler Olson COMMUNITY

Photo by Jay Berino

Falling For Nature

Places to See Fall Leaves

Mix up the family activities and watch Colorado switch seasons into fall with an array of activities, from a stroll in the park to riding a steam train through the Rockies. Take a drive to see the full scope of beauty this season has to offer.

Washington Park

Take a quick trip down to Washington Park to enjoy the vibrant fall leaves. Just south of the Denver metro area exists a huge park for the family to enjoy the lawn, stroll winding garden paths, or relax at either one of the park’s two lakes. Washington Park, Denver. denvergov.org

Nederland

Take an enchanted drive through the golden foothills to discover the charming mountain town of Nederland. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, families can explore the Carousel of Happiness or enjoy a picnic at the Barker Reservoir, which is perfect for relaxation and excitement. Nederland. carouselofhappiness.org

Chautauqua Park

Enjoy views of this vast park in the foothills of Boulder. Reserve a picnic table for the family or stop by the Ranger Cottage to pick one of the many trail maps available. Chautauqua Park, Boulder. chautauqua.com

Denver Botanic Gardens

Stroll through a living gallery at Denver Botanical Gardens to witness the artistry of nature transform its summer colors into vibrant autumnal foliage. Immerse the family with the hues of fall while fostering a connection with the beauty of nature in the heart of Denver. Tickets start at $11. Denver Botanic Gardens. botanicgardens.org

Georgetown Loop Railroad

All aboard for a family adventure at the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Marvel at breathtaking landscapes as you traverse the Colorado Rockies on historic steam trains. Enjoy an hour-long train ride with the family through the Rocky Mountains. Tickets start at $30. Georgetown Loop Railroad. georgetownlooprr.com

— Lauren Chase

Photo by Freepik.com

How to Create Your Family’s Best-Ever Pumpkin

It’s pumpkin time! How can you make sure you pick the perfect pumpkin and transform it into a boo-tiful jack-o-lantern? Check out these handy tips with everything you need to know to create your family’s best-ever pumpkin.

Picky, Picky

The best selection in your local pumpkin patch will probably be available in early October. Of course, selecting your gourd at the grocery store is convenient anytime! My kids have found some of their biggest, best pumpkins at the local store. No matter where you go, look for smooth pumpkins with no soft spots that indicate rot. It is also ideal to find one with a green stem, which means that the pumpkin has been freshly picked.

Once you get your prized pumpkin home, store it uncarved in a cool, dry spot. When it is time to create your jack-o-lantern, aim for just a few days before Halloween. This will ensure that it does not decay too fast (boo, black spots!) and looks frightfully good on the big night.

Carving Station

If you are lucky enough to set up a carving station outside, go for it. The mess from making a jack-o-lantern is easier to handle on your patio or in your backyard than inside. Never fear, though. Carving can be done indoors or out, especially with a well-prepared station. To make cleanup easier, go old school and line your tabletop with newspaper or cut open a plastic trash bag to spread over your surface. You will want to clean up quickly afterward, too, since pumpkin flesh and seeds are super slippery.

Make it Boo-tiful

Have you ever seen a jack-o-lantern with black lines on its face? I know when my family uses permanent markers to sketch our design, we are usually left with a couple of mistakes that we must live with or cut out. Here’s a tip I wish I had known years ago: try sketching your lines with a dry-erase marker instead, as their marks are erasable on pumpkins. Or use a template that you can attach directly to the pumpkin as a guide.

When it’s time to cut into your pumpkin, leave that to the adults, as little ones should not handle anything sharp. Instead, give the kids big spoons or an ice cream scoop and let them scrape out the seeds. Save the seeds if you want to toast them later.

Extra, Extra

Another useful tip is to give kids their own small pumpkin to decorate with glitter and glue or foam stickers while you carve the family’s bigger pumpkin. That way, they will stay engaged and not lose interest.

If carving is more trick than treat for your family, you can always paint your pumpkin instead. Note that you may need several coats to get the desired color, and the paint can take a while to dry between coats.

— Katy M. Clark

Parenting with Courage: Reparenting As the Path

Photo by rawpixel.com on Freepik

It’s vital for students to have breakfast before school or a snack on their way to soccer practice because having an insufficient diet can lead to learning, health, and behavioral problems. Without the proper nutrients, students are not able to focus and succeed in their academics. “In Colorado, 533,650 people are facing hunger, and of them, 129,900 are children,” states the nonprofit organization Feeding America.

How can we help the children and their families who are struggling with food insecurity?

The Backpack Society, a nonprofit organization in Highlands Ranch, aims to remove food insecurity obstacles for students so they can grow, learn, and thrive. Yet, many children who experience food insecurity tend to be too embarrassed to reach out for help. The

Helping Students So They Don’t Go Hungry

community in Highlands Ranch and the surrounding area tend to have more wealth than others, which can make it even more challenging for people affected to reach out.

“The stigma and pride is really hard to overcome, especially in our community,” says June Everett, the Founder and Executive Director of the Backpack Society. “In the high schools and middle schools, we found that kids won’t ask for help if they have to put their name down on a piece of paper.”

To help students feel less embarrassed when asking for food, the Backpack Society offers a Student Program that delivers bags weekly to schools. The bags have six meals and snacks. Rather than a child’s name written on a sheet, the schools will hand out the bags to students in need.

For families who heavily rely on schoolprovided lunches, there is a Family Program that allows parents to pick different foods and

snacks that will get them through the weekend. School breaks can also be challenging for families dealing with food insecurity, so the Backpack Society supplies them with enough food so they don’t go hungry.

Even though they provide food to families for no cost, they don’t have a healthy food agenda or a nutritional guide they’re forcing onto families.

“We’re all moms. As much as we want the kids to eat healthy, we know that they sometimes want the chips or the snacks,” says Everett. “We know they’re going to burn that off so quick anyways as children, so let’s get them a full belly so they can focus on school.”

The Backpack Society is always looking for volunteers to further their mission, and no long-term commitment is required when volunteering. Another way to support the Backpack Society is by donating food or money.

By Austria Cohn

"The most at-risk students for food insecurity are also the ones who are most affected by the achievement gap and poor academic outcomes that can have lifelong effect," states the Backpack Society. "By providing weekend food, we hope students will be well fed over the weekend and can come in Monday mornings, ready to learn."

It might feel like a war zone when it’s that time of night, and you’re telling your child to go brush and floss their teeth. You might hear the common whining complaints, like “Whyyyy?” or “I don’t want to,” in the rush to get them out the door and to school on time.

Yet, parents who have a child with special needs run into several other obstacles and challenges when trying to maintain their child’s oral health.

Parents with children with special needs have a lot of battles to overcome, and oral health is one of them that might be difficult but is necessary. Oral health is connected in many ways to the overall health of the body, so it’s vital to maintain a daily routine to keep your child’s teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw healthy.

If you’re a parent who is feeling lost, angry, frustrated, or running out of steam when it comes to brushing your special needs child’s teeth, here are a few tips and things to keep in mind when finding the right dentist that will be patient, kind, and caring to your child.

When Finding the Right Dentist

When typing into Google “Dentists Near Me,” chances are you won’t find an office that truly accommodates your special needs child. You need a dentist who is patient, adaptive, and kind. It’s also imperative for the doctor to see their medical history prior to their first visit.

Dental Care for Patients with Special Needs

By Austria Cohn Photo by Freepik.com

At Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry, when they receive a phone call from a parent of a child that has autism, Down syndrome, sensory difficulties, etc., the team will go through a detailed questionnaire with the parent.

“We try to find those trigger points, and then on their visit, we try to set up the environment to be conducive as best as we can,” says Dr. Patrick Bowman, a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist at Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry.

For the kiddos who have autism or sensory triggers, Dr. Bowman and his team can use a low-vibration instrument so the child can still have a professional cleaning. It’s vital for a dentist to adapt to the child’s needs, and another way Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry does this is by providing a bean bag for the children who don’t want to sit in the dental chair.

“They sit on the floor; I sit down with them on the floor,” Dr. Bowman says. “I use this cordless low-vibration type tool, and we can still get in their mouth and do a cleaning that’s equal to what they would receive in a dental chair.”

Many children can also benefit from the dentist explaining what’s going to happen beforehand.

“We tell kids what we’re going to do, we show the kids what we’re going to do, and then we do it,” Dr. Bowman says. “Then we follow up with a ton of positive reinforcement afterward.”

Dental Problems to Look Out For

Children with special needs might have damaging oral habits like teeth grinding or clenching, food pouching, or tongue thrusting that can lead to dental issues, states the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

Tooth Decay or Cavities: This is a common oral health problem because of the difficulty of effectively brushing the child’s teeth.

Periodontal (gum) Disease: This is caused by plaque build-up on the teeth and is especially common in children with Down Syndrome.

Prescription Drug Side Effects: The list of side effects from prescription drugs is long, like dry mouth and swelling, which can make it more challenging to complete the daily routine.

Dr. Bowman suggests sticking with a consistent dental routine beginning at an early age with children with special needs because it can help them tolerate brushing and flossing their teeth.

Tips to Keep in Mind

1. Read the Reviews

Before making an appointment with a dentist's office, jump online and skim a few reviews to ensure the practice will accommodate your child’s needs.

2. Take a Tour

Before your first appointment, bring your kiddo in to meet the team and see the space. You can even ask the office if your child can pick a prize before they leave. Dr. Bowman says that creating a positive association with the dentist can help your child become more comfortable with their future experiences.

3. Read Books & Watch Videos

Especially for young children, reading a book or watching a video about going to the dentist can help with the first-day jitters or anxiety.

4. Try a Different-Sized Toothbrush

Consider trying a different toothbrush if your child has difficulty brushing their teeth in the morning or at night.

5. Count to 10 and Take a Break

If your child is in pain or struggling when brushing their teeth, Dr. Bowman suggests counting out loud to 10 and then giving the child a break. There’s a psychological component in this technique that helps kids be more successful when keeping up with their oral hygiene, he adds.

6. Reach Out & Ask Questions

A good dentist who works with children with special needs will answer all your questions, give you advice, and help in every way they can. Don’t be afraid to have a list of questions when finding a new office.

Things We Love

Welcome the much-needed cooler weather by getting into the spooky spirit with these must-have favorites this month.

By Amanda Miller

Fellow Halloween lovers will get a kick out of this adorable Halloween Wreath that features all the colors of the holiday and a “Boo!” sign in the center. $29.99, amazon.com

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Add some flare to your wardrobe this season with these eye-catching Black Fur Tassel Drops that are sure to reel in the compliments. $26, tayrshaydesigns.com

Fill your home with the smells of cinnamon, pumpkin, and clove with this handcrafted Hello Fall Candle infused with essential oils. $17.99, amazon.com

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Enjoy your witch’s brew or any drink of your choosing in this stainless steel Witch’s Brew Mug, perfect for the spooky season. $19.99, amazon.com

This retro Let’s Go Ghouls t-shirt adds a little fun to Halloween in a way that’s silly and not spooky, and it’s available in three colors. $18, etsy.com

Fall in Love with these Fall Activities

Corn Mazes & Pumpkin Patches

Anderson Farms

6728 County Road 3 ¼, Erie (303) 828-5210

andersonfarms.com

Anderson Farms has a range of activities to choose from, like the Corn Maze that’s perfect for all ages, the Terror in the Corn, the Zombie Paintball Hunt, and more.

Baseggio Family Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze

16695 County Rd. 20.5, Atwood (970) 580-3024

facebook.com/baseggiofamilypumpkin andcornmaze

Fall is the time for pumpkin patches and corn mazes. Visit us for a family-friendly environment where you can find the perfect pumpkin to carve.

Bromley Farm

1594 E. Bromley Ln., Brighton (970) 699-0108

bromleyfarm.com

Bromley Farm entertains and educates through hands-on activities. The whole family is invited to explore, discover, and learn.

Chatfield Farms

8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton (720) 865-3500

botanicgardens.org

It’s time to “seas” the day as you dive in to explore our seven-acre corn maze. This year’s maze has a sea-creature theme for fun twists and tricky turns.

Colon Orchards

3175 Grandview Ave., Cañon City (719) 275-6359

colonorchards.com

The pumpkin patch is one of their favorite ways to connect with the community and introduce new visitors to the shop. Nothing brings a family together quite like a day on the farm.

Colorado Kids Ranch

18065 Saddlewood Rd., Monument (719) 799-6708

coloradokidsranch.com

We have tractor hay rides, laser tag, human foosball, straw maze, pony rides, bounce pillows, tube swings, straw slides, and more.

Cottonwood Farms

10600 Isabelle Rd., Lafayette (720) 890-4766

cottonwoodfarms.com

Bring the whole family for a walk in the corn maze that is cut by hand, not by tractors, which allows our paths to be narrower, and the experience to be more personal. Our two-acre corn maze provides the real feel of being on the farm.

Hankins Farms

26745 Weld County Rd. 17, Johnstown (970) 408-0608

Come spend the day with us this fall. As the leaves turn, the kids enjoy the fresh air, and you can escape with your family. Bring your own lawn chair, sit back, and relax under one of the ol’ cottonwood trees.

Hergenreder Farms

13332 Co Rd. 5, Longmont (303) 349-5711

facebook.com/hergenrederfarms

At Hergenreder Farms, pick out your favorite pumpkin and explore the free corn or bale maze. Admission into the farm is free.

Jack Lantern’s Northern Colorado Corn Maze

2318 S. Co Rd. 5, Fort Collins (970) 308-5843

nococornmaze.com

Jack Lantern’s Corn Maze has been Northern Colorado’s favorite corn maze and pumpkin patch for 20-plus years, offering acres and acres of fun.

Long Neck Pumpkin Farm

7595 California Dr., Colorado Springs (719) 551-0525

longneckpumpkinfarm.com

In addition to pumpkins and fall-themed photo ops, Long Neck Pumpkin Farm offers various family-friendly activities, games, and offerings: hayrides, a hay slide, duck races, farm animals, tractor swings, and more.

Maize in the City

10451 McKay Rd., Unit 1, Thornton maizeinthecity.com

Take a turn navigating our 20-plus acre corn or mini maze using our customizable smartphone trivia game. How fast will you make it out?

Mazzotti Farms Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze

24120 Co Rd. 8, Hudson (303) 536-4089

mazzottifarms.com

Enjoy the harvest at Mazzotti Farms, which has a variety of pumpkins, gourds, and golden corn stalks. The farm offers several activities like the scare-free corn maze, a petting zoo, and even making a scarecrow.

Mile High Farms

11 Cavanaugh Rd., Bennet (720) 560-0730

milehighfarms.com

Come in and explore our pumpkin patch with a large variety of different pumpkin types. Pick out your favorite to take home and enjoy during the fall season.

Munson Farms

7455 Valmont Rd., Boulder (720) 491-1421

munsonfarms.com

Fall is a wonderful season at Munson Farms. Pick your own pumpkin in our patch, fill a wheelbarrow of pumpkins and heirlooms, purchase some winter squash, and enjoy the free corn maze.

Rock Creek Farm

2005 S. 112th St., Broomfield (303) 465-9565

rockcreekfarm.com

Join us for fall family fun activities at one of the largest pumpkin patches in northern Colorado. We have over 80 acres of U-PickEm pumpkin fields for you to explore and find the perfect pumpkins.

Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch

9059 Ute Hwy., Longmont (303) 684-0087

rockymtnpumpkinranch.com

We offer a mellow pumpkin patch weekday outing during the month of October with a smaller selection of activities available to participate in.

Studt Farms Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze

21 ½ Rd., Grand Junction (970) 305-9006

studtfarms.com

Studt Farms offers several family-friendly activities like corn mazes, pumpkin patches, a petting zoo, pumpkin jumps, a Hay Mountain, fire pits, and more.

The Bartels Farm

3424 E. Douglas Rd., Fort Collins (970) 493-3853

thebartelspumpkinpatch.com

We take pride and joy in serving our community, bringing family and friends

together for the past 22 years with our pumpkin patch and you-pick vegetable garden.

Farmers Markets

Alamosa Farmers Market

Corner of Ross & 6th St., Alamosa (719) 849-1083

alamosafarmersmarket.org

Head to Alamaso for a farmers market from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. until October 14.

Cherry Creek Fresh Market

3000 E. 1st Ave., Denver (303) 442-1837

coloradofreshmarkets.com

Cherry Creek Fresh Market Features an award-winning mix of farm flowers, local produce, handcrafted products, and delicious cuisine from Colorado. This reoccurs every Saturday until November 4, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

City Park Farmers Market

2551 E. Colfax Ave., Denver CityParkFarmersMarket@gmail.com

cityparkfarmersmarket.com

The City Park Farmers Market serves locally grown food in the heart of Denver at City Park Esplanade. The market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. until October 28.

Crested Butte Farmers Market

Downtown Crested Butte (405) 203-0168

cbfarmersmarket.org

The Crested Butte Farmers Market promotes sustainable agriculture and farmto-consumer sales within Crested Butte. The market offers organic and certified naturally grown vegetables, fruits, herbs, pasture-raised and grass-finished meats, artisanal cheese, and more. Happening until October 8.

Festival Park Farmers Market

300 2nd St., Castle Rock

thelocalcolorado.com

We are constantly working to bring Colorado’s finest ranchers, farmers, and artisans to Festival Park. The farmers market is open every Sunday until October 15.

Golden Farmers Market

1019 10th St., Golden (303) 279-3113

goldenfarmersmarket.org

We are dedicated to promoting food equity, enhancing community connections, and nurturing growth and innovation. The final day to attend the market is October 7 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Larimer County Farmers Market

200 W. Oak St., Fort Collins (970) 498-6000

larimer.gov

The Larimer County Farmers’ Market is Northern Colorado's oldest farmers’ market. It supports local growers and is a staple of Old Town Fort Collins. Attend the market until October 28.

Louisville Farmers Market

824 Front St., Louisville (303) 902-2451 realfarmersmarketco.com

Our farmers sell Colorado-grown organic, transitional, and pesticide-free vegetables. The market is open until October 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Metro Denver Farmers Market

8501 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton (303) 513-7610 denverfarmersmarket.com

Many of our farmers are from generations of Colorado farming families, locally grown in all ways. From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or sellout) every Saturday, find great products until October 28.

South Pearl Street Farmers Market

1527 S. Pearl St., Denver southpearlstreet.com

It is important to support our local community; therefore, all products must be grown, raised, produced, or gathered by the vendor in the State of Colorado or in counties bordering the State of Colorado. The market is open until November 12, every Sunday.

South University Farmers Market

5859 S. University Blvd., Greenwood Village (720) 232-3740

southuniversityfarmersmarket.com

Right in Greenwood Village, grab all the necessities and fresh produce at the local farmers market. The market is open on Fridays until October 27.

The Farmer’s Market at Highlands Square

W. 32nd Ave. & Lowell Blvd., Denver (303) 734-0718

visitdenverhighlands.com

Head to Highlands Square until October 15. Offering fabulous fruits, fancy flowers, beautiful beets, glorious “grown in Colorado” produce, puffy pastries, bodacious bread, and more.

Timnath Farmers Market

4138 Main St., Timnath (970) 425-6804

timnathfarmersmarket.org

On the second Sunday of October, stop by the Timnath Farmers Market for fresh produce and foods, artisan goods, gifts, and more. The market is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fall Events

Boo at the Zoo

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd., Colorado Springs (719) 633-9925

cmzoo.org

Boo at the Zoo has a haunted house, spooky graveyard, trick-or-treat at Spooky Treat Stations, pirates cove, lighted pumpkin patch, a sky ride, and a Giraffe and Budgie feeding experience. The event is happening October 20-22, 27-29, and 31 from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival

Riverwalk Center

150 W. Adams Ave., Breckenridge (970) 547-3100

The Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival is happening on October 6-8. Try some of the best offerings from artisan distillers, learn more about the distilling process, and attend several exciting events.

Cedaredge Applefest

W. Main St., Cedaredge (970) 856-3123

cedaredgeapplefest.com

Festivities include live music, art, craft, and food vendors, a five Alarm Chili Cookoff, a Golf Tournament, Pinup Competitions, a 5K run, and more. The festivities begin the weekend of October 6.

Denver Ghost Tour

200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver (720) 885-9930

denverterrors.com

Our Denver Ghost Tour takes you through eight or 13 different sites around the Capitol Hill area, each with its own colorful past. This is a family-friendly attraction and is suitable for everyone.

Elk Fest

Downtown Estes Park

170 MacGregor Ave., Estes Park (970) 577-9900

visitestespark.com

The final day to experience the familyfriendly Elk Fest is October 1. Enjoy vendors, live music, food trucks, bugling contests, performances, and more. Jump online to view the entire festival schedule and buy tickets.

Fall Festival

7th Generation Farm

1536 Courtesy Rd., Louisville (720) 499-8199

7thgenerationfarm.com

Enjoy fun activities such as hayrides, duck races, hay mountain, kids' straw bale maze, straw bale pirate ship, and more. The Farm Stand is open to purchase meat, eggs, honey, and roasted chilies.

Fall Harvest Festival

Miller Farms

13912 Co Rd. 19, Platteville

2023

(970) 785-6133

millerfarms.net

Our fall festival gives everyone the opportunity to not only explore the farm but also to harvest their own vegetables. During the fall harvest, everyone takes a tractor ride to our fields, with stops to pick their own produce.

Fritzler Farm Park

20861 Co Rd. 33, La Salle (970) 737-2129

fritzlerfarmpark.com

Their iconic corn maze designs only touch the top of the mountains as Fritzler Farm Park offers tons of attractions during their Fall Festival season. Guests can check out the pumpkin patch, pedal go-carts, barrel train, and pumpkin cannons—only to name a few.

Haunted Trail

Bear Creek Lake Park

15600 W. Morrison Rd., Lakewood (303) 697-6159

lakewood.org

Experience Bear Creek Lake Park in all its ghoulish magic in an evening of ghostly trails and tales on October 14. Walk along Owl Trail and discover the critters of the night, enjoy carnival games and tasty treats from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Halloween Fest

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

aquariumrestaurants.com

From October 29-31, join Sharkey and his friends for a fun day of games, prizes, costume contests, and other fun activities. The Halloween Fest is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and kids in costumes receive half-off admission tickets.

Halloween Parade and Trick-or-Treat Street

Roosevelt Park

700 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont

longmontcolorado.gov

On October 28, the City of Longmont is calling all ghosts and goblins to the 44th Annual Halloween Parade and Trick or Treat Street. Dress up in your Halloween costume, march on Main Street, and visit Downtown participating merchants for Trick or Treat Street right after the parade.

Halloween Spooktacular

Boettcher Concert Hall

1000 14th St., Denver

(720) 865-4220

On Sunday, October 29, have a Spooktacular day with the Colorado Symphony. This family-friendly concert features music from films and television, and costumes are encouraged. The show begins at 2:30 p.m., and tickets start at $10.

Miners’ Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser

Western Museum of Mining & Industry

225 N. Gate Blvd., Colorado Springs (719) 488-0880 minerspumpkinpatch.com

The Miners’ Pumpkin Patch takes place on Saturdays in October. Enjoy several familyfun activities like cornhole, tether ball, Kids' Hay Maze, sack races, Giant Checkers, and more.

Munchkin Masquerade

Pearl Street Mall

1300 Pearl St., Boulder (303) 449-3774 boulderdowntwon.com

On October 31, Downtown Boulder is invaded by tiny ghosts, goblins, dinosaurs, dragons, fairies, princes, superheroes, and animals that trick-or-treat along Pearl Street. This event is recommended for ages 12 and under.

October Festival

Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch

9059 Ute Hwy., Longmont (303) 684-0087

rockymtnpumpkinranch.com

Don’t miss the excitement of the weekend festival held on Saturdays and Sundays during the month of October. It boasts tons of Carnival Fun with kiddie rides, a petting zoo, face-painting, a food truck, and of course, is home to the original Pick-aPumpkin Pumpkin Patch.

Oktoberfest Denver

2100 Larimer St., Denver thedenveroktoberfest.com

The 53rd annual two-weekend festival is back and is full of competitions, live music, beer, and more! The final day to enjoy the festival is October 1.

Pumpkin Fest

Chatfield Farms

8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton (720) 865-3500 botanicgardens.org

The Pumpkin Fest is happening October 6-8, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Festivities include family and children activities, local craft

and artisan booths, live music, food trucks, and beer and hard cider vendors.

Pumpkin Pour Painting

artSPARK Creative Studio

2630 W. Belleview Ave. Ste. 160, Littleton (303) 795-7897

artsparkcreative.com

Kick off the Halloween season by painting pumpkins on October 9 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Spend time with your kiddos and create a one-of-a-kind pumpkin.

Safe Street Halloween

Northglenn Marketplace

10578 W. 104th Ave., Northglenn (720) 771-7560

northglenn.org

Northglenn Police Department’s popular event is back for some trick-or-treat fun on Kennedy Drive along Centennial Park. Enjoy spooky inflatables, music, candy, and trunk-or-treat cars in a safe environment with the entire family. This event is entirely outside, so dress for the weather.

Spooky Streets Stroll

Orchard Town Center

14697 Delaware St., Westminster (303) 450-8601

theorchardtowncenter.com

On October 15, enjoy a spooky sweets stroll and Macabre Market. Dress up in your most enchanting costume to trick-or-treat and enjoy the Halloween-themed makers market. Trick-or-treat from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and enjoy the Macabre Market from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spooky Streets at Southglenn

6851 S. Gaylord St., Centennial (303) 539-7141 shopsouthglenn.com

Friday, October 20, enjoy balloon artists, kids' entertainment, music, dancing, and more from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This is not a trick-or-treating event but a celebration of the season.

Spooktacular

Philip S. Miller Park

1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy., Castle Rock (720) 724-2083 crgov.com

It’s Halloween and time for fall fun with the entire family on Saturday, October 21. Play games, win prizes, and enjoy delicious food and candy at this free. Sensory-friendly activities are happening from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m.

home

By CP Illustrations by Freepik.com

Halloween is an enjoyable and spooky holiday for all, especially for children. Kids enjoy the opportunity to channel their whimsy and imagination, whether that involves choosing a clever costume or helping design the theme and scope of home decorations.

Channel creativity inspired by Halloween into various craft projects this month. Crafts not only keep children busy when the “I’m bored” lamentations turn up, but crafts also are a way to keep children off screens. Plus, the items that children create can be used to decorate rooms in the house. The following are some Halloween crafts children can make alone or with the help of older siblings and parents.

Jack’s Slime

The toothy grins of jack-o-lanterns can be seen just about everywhere come Halloween, and the bright orange color of pumpkins heralds the start of fall. Slime is something that’s always a big hit. Recipe courtesy of The Best Ideas for Kids.

Materials

-6 ounces of Elmer’s glue (substituting with another brand of glue may not produce the same results)

-Orange food coloring to create the desired hue

-1⁄2 teaspoon of baking soda

-1 1⁄2 tablespoons of contact lens solution (one that contains boric acid in the ingredient list, as that is what causes the chemical reaction to form slime)

-Optional: 2 tablespoons of water added to the glue before the baking soda if you desire a stretchier slime

-Black felt or black construction paper cut into the eyes and mouth of a jack-o-lantern

-Small mason jar with lid

Directions

Decorate the mason jar using a bit of glue to stick the black paper or felt face pieces to the outside of the jar. Mix all the slime ingredients in a small bowl and pour into the decorated jar.

Forest Spider

Can Halloween be complete without creepy, crawly, and cute spiders? I think not. Once you finish the craft, set the spiders on the table as decor or tie a string to them and have them hanging from the ceiling.

Materials

-Desired amount of round pine cones

-Four brown pipe cleaners

-Glue

-Pack of googly eyes (small and large)

Directions

Take a trip to a nearby forest or wooded trail and gather round pine cones that have fallen. Purchase brown pipe cleaners and cut four in half to form eight legs. Glue the legs on the pinecone and attach several small googly eyes and two larger ones to create the eyes of the spider.

Paper Roll Treat Holders

Rather than discarding the tubes inside of paper towels or toilet paper rolls, let kids transform them into monster craft treat holders.

Materials

-Paper towel or toilet paper rolls

-Masking tape

-Paint or markers

-Colored paper (optional)

-Candy

-Tissue paper

Directions

Cover the bottoms of the rolls with masking tape so treats won’t fall out. Paint the outside of the cardboard rolls and let them dry. An alternative is to cover the rolls in colored paper for less messy fun. Then use markers or paper cut-outs to form faces of the monsters. Fill the rolls with treats, then stuff a piece of tissue paper in each top to add even more personality to the creations and hide the treats inside.

Ghostly Leaves

Ghosts are another spooky Halloween essential! Make a truly eco-friendly craft on Halloween with ghosts made out of leaves, eliminating the need to use extra paper.

Materials

-Leaves

-Paint (white and black)

Directions

Paint large leaves with white paint. On the narrowmost point on top of the leaves, paint black eyes and mouths. When completely dry, scatter on a table or sideboard for some scary fun, or use double-sided tape to stick to windows and doors.

Photo by Freepik.com

Exceptional Needs Resource Guide

By CP

Photo by Freepik.com

CONGENITAL HEART DEFECTS CARE

Heart Institute at Children’s Hospital Colorado (720) 777-6820

childrenscolorado.org

Pediatrix Cardiology of the Rocky Mountains - Presbyterian St Luke’s (303) 860-9933 pediatrix.com

Pediatrix Cardiology of the Rocky Mountains - Sky Ridge (303) 860-9933 pediatrix.com

Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children

(720) 754-1000 healthonecares.com

LEARNING CENTERS

AutismConnect

(719) 579-6440 autismconnect.com

Autism Learning Partners (855) 295-3276 ext. 276 autismlearningpartners.com

Bear & Bee Makers' Studio & Boutique

(970) 988-5763

bearandbeeinspired.com/makersclub

Center for Neurodiverse Learners

(720) 819-7404 neurodiverselearners.com

Firefly Autism

(303) 759-1192 fireflyautism.org

Humanex Academy

(303) 783-0137

humanexacademy.org

Hulstrom K-8

(720) 972-5400 hulstrom.adams12.org

Instructional Services Center

(720) 542-4500 westministerpublicschools.org

Parent to Parent of Colorado

(877) 472-7201 abilityconnectionscolorado.org

Results Learning

(303) 771-1160 results-learning.com

SOAR Camp, Boarding School, and GAP Year (828) 456-3435 soarnc.org

Spectra Centers

(303) 665-6800 spectracenters.org

STAR Institute for Sensory Processing

(303) 221-7827 sensoryhealth.org

T.A.C.T

(303) 295-0163 buildwithtact.org

The GEM Center (303) 805-9110 exceptionalmindsco.org

The Joshua School (303) 758-7171 joshuaschool.org

The Sensory Club Denver

(720) 353-4044 thesensoryclub.com/denver

THRIVE Center

(303) 632-6840 thrivectr.org

Zach’s Place at the Laurie Hillyard Family Center (719) 329-1717 sksfcolorado.org

NONPROFITS

Ability Connection Colorado (303) 691-9339 abilityconnectioncolorado.org

AdvocacyDenver (303) 831-7733 advocacydenver.org

All Stars Club, Littleton (720) 207-1252 allstarsclub.org

All Stars Club, Northglenn (720) 272-2378 allstarsclub.org

Anchor Center for Blind Children (303) 377-9732 anchorcenter.org

Colorado Alliance of Research (303) 759-3399 alliancecolorado.org

Developmental Pathways (303) 360-6600 dpcolo.org

Global Down Syndrome Foundation (303) 321-6277 globaldownsyndrome.org

Imagine Colorado (303) 665-7789 imaginecolorado.org

Lily Grace Foundation (720) 625-1007 lilygracefoundation.org

RespiteCare (970) 207-9435

respitecareinc.org

Roundup Fellowship Main Office

(303) 757-8008 rup.org

Roundup School (719) 447-9333 rup.org

Special Kids Special Families

(719) 447-8983 sksfcolorado.org

The Ride School of Denver (303) 756-7473 risedenver.org

SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICE CENTERS

All for Kids Home Health (720) 456-8054 allforkidshealth.com

Autism Community Store (303) 309-3647 autismcommunitystore.com

Autism Home Support Services (720) 500-2524 autismhomesupport.com

Behavioral Innovations (855) 782-7822 behavioral-innovations.com

BehaviorSpan

(720) 206-9644 behaviorspan.com

Courageous Parents

(303) 518-6316

courageousparents.com

Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics

(303) 428-3613 mycoloradosmile.com

Developmental FX (303) 333-8360 developmentalfx.org

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health (800) 456-2536 denvereux.org

Easterseals Colorado (303) 233-1666 easterseals.com

Family Voices Colorado (303) 877-1747 familyvoicesco.org

Feel the Beat (303) 816-8683 feelthebeat.dance

Grey Matters Neurofeedback (720) 726-6597 greymattersneurofeedback.com

In! Pathways to Inclusive Higher Education (720) 629-0196 inclusivehighered.org

Key Autism (888) 329-4535 keyautismservices.com

Kids Wonder (303) 835-0709 mycoloradosmile.com

Kimel Psychological Services (303) 369-1777 kimelpsychologicalservices.com

Learning Disabilities Association of America, Colorado Chapter (412) 341-1515 nchpad.org

Megan’s Place (303) 881-4988 megansplacellc.org

Parallel Play (720) 900-5331 parallelplay.today

PASCO (303) 233-3122 pascohh.com

Peak Parent Center’s (719) 531-9400 peakparent.org

Rocky Mountain ADA Center (719) 444-0268 rockymountainada.org

Rocky Mountain Branch of International Dyslexia Association (303) 721-9425 idarmb.org

Rocky Mountain Down Syndrome Association (303) 797-1699 rmdsa.org

Specailized Sitters (303) 910-4158 specializedsitters.com

Swallow Hill Music (303) 777-1003 swallowhillmusic.org

The Arc (303) 864-9334 thearc.org

The Stepping Stones Group (877) 900-6497 thesteppingstonesgroup.com

Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry (720) 647-6310 washparkpediatricdentistry.com

wellness

Parenting with Courage: Reparenting As the Path

By Dr. Chrissy Chard, parenting coach and educator, and the founder of Courageous Parents

We are in our fourth and final installment of our series on Parenting with Courage. In our first month, we explored values-based parenting, where you spent time clarifying your family’s unique values. In the second month, we delved into the first pillar of the Courageous Parents framework, that “every behavior is the result of an unmet need.” You committed to putting on your detective hat when your child is struggling to get underneath their behavior and find the unmet need.

Last month, we delved into the second pillar of the Courageous Parents framework, that “connection is the foundation for thriving,” where we explored how to build connection capital with our kiddos. As we wrap up this series, we once more remind ourselves of the goal of the Courageous Parents framework, which is to find a values-based approach to parenting where you can access ease, joy, and self-trust by parenting with awareness and choice.

Now, let’s get into our final month’s pillar of Courageous Parents: It starts with us. As you well know, parenting is a journey that can shake you to your core. It is a rollercoaster of emotions, with thrills and drops and twists and turns. If we let it, the experience of being a parent can challenge and stretch us in ways we didn’t know were possible. It can also be a gateway into profound self-discovery and healing.

What this third pillar invites us into, is the truth that the power to transform our parenting experience lies within us. Transformation happens not by changing our children, but by changing ourselves. This, my dear parents, is the work of reparenting.

So, what exactly is reparenting, and how can it change our lives as parents? Reparenting is the process of giving yourself the love, care, and acceptance that you needed as a child but may not have fully received. Now, I want to add a caveat here–this doesn’t necessarily mean your parents didn’t do a good job. Two things can be true–your parents may have been doing the best they could, and there still may have been ways they fell short.

Reparenting involves first identifying the patterns that are not serving you, and then

healing the wounds that caused them, so you may free yourself from these patterns that have been passed down, often through generations. Importantly, this isn’t just theoretical.

In one study, for example, adults who engaged in 12 weeks of reparenting practices experienced significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety, which is linked to many positive outcomes, including better relationships with our children.

Why is this important? First, it’s well documented that our unresolved childhood experiences can lead to all sorts of negative behaviors, many of which can impact our children’s emotional development. Let’s take a deep breath here. There’s an important flipside to this truth. I often tell my clients, if there’s ONE thing I hope all parents take away from doing this work, it’s that it is never too late. I’ll say that again… It is NEVER too late. Anything that has been wired, any experience we or our children have had, can all be rewired.

What we know from neuroscience is that the brain has an incredible capacity to create new connections and pathways. What does this look like in action? Imagine a life where you no longer feel triggered by your child’s behavior, where you can respond with calm and compassion instead of frustration. Picture yourself fostering a deep connection with your children, built on understanding and empathy.

What’s also important is that reparenting is not about becoming a perfect parent (as if that existed); it’s about becoming a more aware and conscious one. It’s understanding that we all carry emotional baggage from our past, and that addressing it can lead to positive changes in our parenting style, and therefore, in our bond with our children.

The big picture here is that by nurturing and healing ourselves, we can break the cycle of repeating unhealthy patterns and creating a loving environment for our children to thrive. I want to share a story about a client of mine, Liza, who came to work with me because she found herself constantly overwhelmed and impatient with her young daughter, Emmy. Through our work together, it became clear that Liza had developed very strong peoplepleasing tendencies, as a result of always feeling like she needed to prove her worth as a child. Because of this, she was struggling with feelings of unworthiness and inadequacy, which was showing up in her parenting as a belief that “I can’t handle this.”

Recognizing the impact of her past, Liza began the work of reparenting. Through coaching and self-reflection, she began to offer herself the love and compassion she needed as a child. As she healed her own wounds, she noticed a remarkable transformation in her relationship with Emmy. Liza found herself responding to Emmy’s tantrums with confidence, patience, and a strong feeling of groundedness. This resulted in Emmy feeling seen and safe, which ultimately led to fewer, less intense meltdowns. Liza’s decision to reparent herself not only changed her life, but it also transformed Emmy’s experience of childhood.

Parenting is not just about guiding our children; it’s also about healing ourselves. Reparenting is a powerful tool that supports parents in creating a positive and nurturing environment for ourselves and our children. And most importantly, remember that it’s never too late to start this transformative journey.

Photo by Freepik.com

2

Family Fun Night

Family Fun Night is designed to make family time more enjoyable and less of a routine with Virtual Reality games, music, drinks, and endless fun. Oct. 4. VR Social, Edgewater. virtualrealitysocial.com

3

Family Arts

For children ages three through six, bring your kiddo to develop their imagination, motor skills, and school readiness during the free class. Downtown Aurora Visual Arts. davarts.org

4

Family Fun Day: Stem Careers

Girl Scouts of Colorado is hosting a fun community day for students to learn about STEM careers through hands-on activities. This is a free event, but guests should RSVP. Oct. 8. Girl Scout DreamLab, Denver. girlscoutsofcolorado.org

5

UP!

Please phone

Circle of Parents Circle of Fathers

This father-led group is a place to share ideas and opinions. A meal and childcare is provided. Oct. 10. Community Partnership Family Resource Center, Woodland Park. cpteller.org

Disney in Concert

The Nightmare Before Christmas will be projected on a large screen, while the Colorado Symphony plays live. Costumes are encouraged, and tickets start at $15. Oct.27 & 28. Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. coloradosymphony.org

6

Alice in Wonderland

The Museum of Outdoor Arts is doing Halloween-themed movie nights. Stop by the concession stand or play yard games before the movie. Tickets are $15 for nonmembers, free for members. Oct. 21. Marjorie Park, Greenwood Village. moaonline.org

8

Goats & Ghouls

For the SCFD free day, come dressed in your costume and visit the farm animal friends. There will be fun spooky festivities for the entire family. Oct. 28. The Urban Farm, Denver. theurbanfarm.org

Indoor Family Halloween Festival 9

On Halloween, head to the festival for games, prizes, candy, and a whole lot of fun. This event is free, but you must RSVP online. SoccerHaus Sports and Events Center, Colorado Springs. connectingcommunities719.com

A Precious Child Annual Gala

A Precious Child, a nonprofit organization in Broomfield, is hosting their 15th Annual Gala on Saturday, October 21. This year, the Gala is Crystal Ball-themed, and it’s the largest fundraiser of the year.

“We are a nonprofit that provides opportunities and resources to children and families in need to empower them to thrive,” states Courtney Wickberg the Chief Communications Officer. “There are more than 250,000 children that are living below the self-sufficiency standard just in the eight-county service area that A Precious Child serves.”

From supplying children with the necessary school supplies to be successful to providing children with clothes that make them feel confident, A Precious Child empowers children and removes barriers to their education.

“Our Gala is such a fun time to not only celebrate as a community and organization, but it’s really to bring awareness to what we’re doing,” Wickberg says.

The night will be full of hope, inspiration, exciting entertainment, and fantastic auction items. At last year’s gala, A Precious Child raised a record-breaking $865,000 with more than 800 attendees. The proceeds from this event go to support A Precious Child’s programs which serve more than 57,000 children in need.

“We always have a great client speaker, a wonderful MC, and a really moving video that I always see beforehand, and I still manage to cry every single time when I see it,” Wickberg says. “Because it’s our families talking about the impact that we’ve had and being 15 years old, we’re really able to see the kids that we’ve been serving come out on the other side and have really successful careers.”

The gala takes place at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel from 6 p.m. until midnight. Individual tickets are $250.

Sheraton Downtown Hotel, Denver. apreciouschild.org

Little Red Riding Hood. Harnessing the power of music, the story casts a fresh twist on the original fable leading to an ending the audience would never see coming. When purchasing tickets online, adults start at $18, and children 12 and under are $16. Denver Center for the Performing Arts Center. denvercenter.org

Twilight Ghost Tour

Learn the rich history and pearlclutching scandals of deceased residents of Denver’s most haunted mansions with your bravest friends and family. It is imperative you keep your cool listening to bewildering ghost stories, and guests must keep their eyes peeled for paranormal activity around every corner. Book online for $29 per person. 901 Sherman St., Denver. viator.com

6 Friday

Dinosaur Tracksite

9am-4pm

to do today

October

1 Sunday

Elitch Gardens Fright Fest

Noon-Midnight

Embrace the chills, thrills, and unforgettable memories that await amidst the spooky delights of Fright Fest! Elitch Gardens transforms into a thrilling playground of haunted mazes, ghostly shows, and hair-raising rides, perfect for families seeking unforgettable Halloween fun. Recurring at noon every Saturday & Sunday until Oct. 29. Elitch Gardens, Denver. elitchgardens.com

Lumberjack Festival

Noon-6pm

The Lumberjack Festival is an unforgettable family adventure filled

with thrilling lumberjack competitions, delicious food, and interactive activities that will delight kids of all ages. Adults, try your hand at a friendly game of axe throwing while kids enjoy the petting zoo, face painting, and witness live chainsaw art accompanied by bluegrass bands. Clement Park, Littleton. thelumberjackfestival.com

OktoberFest

Experience the vibrant spirit of Bavaria right in the heart of Denver at Oktoberfest. Participate in keg bowling, long dog races, and a costume contest for the best lederhosen. Join the celebration as the city comes alive with the infectious energy of live music, delicious German cuisine, and of course, plenty of frothy beer to toast to this iconic festival. Larimer & 21st, Denver. thedenveroktoberfest.com

3 Tuesday

Family Bingo

6-6:45pm

In honor of Hispanic Heritage month, the library will be hosting a game of ‘Lotería,’ a traditionally Mexican game played like bingo with festive characters as the card spaces. Try a new game with the family and the chance to earn spooky holiday prizes and candy. Free attendance for all ages.

Blair-Caldwell

African American Research Library, Denver. denverlibrary.org

Wild Fall

10am-5pm

While strolling through the 84-acre Zoo, costumed kids may stumble upon opportunities for pumpkin carving and animal demonstrations. Follow the “trail-of-treats” to encounter other friendly fellow costumed creatures roaming the grounds. Free with purchased admission tickets. Denver Zoo. denverzoo.org

4 Wednesday Yogarita

6-7pm

Guests can register for a one-hour yoga class taught by a Life Time fitness instructor. After the class, enjoy a refreshing, complimentary margarita at 3 Margaritas. Yoga tickets are $6 when registering online. Orchard Town Center, Westminster. theorchardtowncenter.com

5 Thursday

Little Red

1:30pm & 3:30pm

Join us downtown for opening night for a retelling of the famous story of

Venture to the foothills of Morrison for a self-guided tour of the paleontological landmark Colorado has to offer. Feel the excitement of discovery with the family hiking through hundreds of Jurassic fossils. Reserve a guided tour with a professional geologist for $20 a person. Dinosaur Ridge, Morrison. dinoridge.org

7 Saturday

Denver Bake Fest

10am-Noon

Zach Martinucci hosts a community celebration for the 5th Anniversary of his bakery, Rebel Bread. From hobby to career, Marinucci invites all local bakers to showcase their best creations for the public to delight in. Aspiring young bakers can hone in their craft by submitting their creations to participate in the 12 & under competition. Rebel Bread, Denver. rebelbreadco.com

Cider Days

10am-5pm

Learn the historical method of pressing apples and creating cider by harvesting your own fresh apples from the fall season. Vintage tractors can pull your family and friends throughout the orchard at their leisure to pick the freshest, ripest, most natural apples to make your own cider before going home. Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park. lakewood.org

8 Sunday

Run on the Rocks

9am

Lace-up your running shoes to Run on the Rocks, hosted by the American

Lung Association. This family-friendly event features a 1.3-mile Family Fun Walk around the amphitheater, accompanied by local bands pumping up the energy with music. Bring your furry friends along, as dogs are welcome too. Red Rocks, Morrison. redrocksonline.com

Candy Crawl

11am-1pm

Treat your family to a sweet adventure at the Candy Crawl. This free event offers trick-or-treating, hayrides, crafts, contests, giveaways, and even thrilling dance performances. Make lasting memories by dressing up and showing off in your favorite familyfriendly costumes this Halloween season. The Shops at Northfield. shopsatnorthfield.com

2nd Annual Fortissimo Fall Festival & Scholarships Fundraiser

Noon-3pm

This event is free for all and offers live music, delicious food, and musical games. What makes it even better? The proceeds from this event go towards creating scholarships for young artists. Stanley Marketplace, Aurora. eventbrite.com

9 Monday

LuBirds Light Playground

8am

Let your little ones run wild at LuBirds Light Playground for a day of endless family fun and excitement from morning until night. Explore enchanting light installations to bring fantasy into reality, engage in interactive play zones, and create magical memories together. Stanley Marketplace, Aurora. lubirdslight.org

10 Tuesday

Free Day at the Denver Art Museum

10am

Enjoy a day of art and culture with your family at the Denver Art Museum. Explore captivating exhibits and introduce your kids to the wonders of creativity and expression. Denver Art Museum. denverartmuseum.org

12 Thursday Museum of Illusions

10am-9pm

Immerse yourself in a blend of art and illusion, where reality bends, and imagination knows no bounds. Visitors can purchase tickets online before the official opening for $20-$24; children four & younger are free. 16th Street Mall, Denver. moidenver.com

A Taste of Reality

4-11pm

Parents can bask in awe of the dual-feature exhibit featuring work from Jordan Garelick and Daphne Sweet. The two present “A Taste of Reality.” Lane Meyer Gallery, Denver. lanemeyerprojects.com

13 Friday

The 13th Floor

7pm-Midnight

Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure at The 13th Floor Denver, where your darkest fears come to life. Bring the family for a heart-pounding experience, but beware, this thrilling adventure is recommended for ages 13 and older. Don’t miss out on the ultimate haunted attraction in town, where fear meets fun. 13th Floor Haunted House, Denver. 13thfloorhauntedhouse.com

Telluride Horror Film Festival

The silver screen comes alive with screams and chills for the whole family. With a carefully curated selection of thrilling and suspenseful films, your family can bond over the excitement

of horror in a beautiful mountain setting. Viewers under 18 are permitted admission with an adult present. Telluride. telluridehorrorshow.com

14 Saturday

Dia De Los Muertos Family

Celebration

11am-3pm

Experience the vibrant and rich cultural traditions of the Day of the Dead at Longmont’s captivating event. Join in celebrating this meaningful holiday through art, music, and storytelling as we pay homage to loved ones and explore the significance of this beautiful Mexican tradition. Longmont Museum. longmontcolorado.gov

Golden Beer Tasting & Chili Cookoff

1-4pm

Sample a diverse array of craft beers while savoring the mouthwatering flavors of chili creations that will tickle your palate. Join us for a culinary celebration where you can sample the best brews and chilis. Children 12 & under are free; purchase tickets for $30. Walk around for unlimited beer and chili tasting while it’s available. Parfet Park, Golden. goldenbeerchilicookoff.org

15 Sunday

Free day at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

9am-9pm

Discover the wonders of our natural world without breaking the bank at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science Free Day. It’s an incredible opportunity for individuals and families to explore fascinating exhibits, engage in handson learning, and spark curiosity in science and nature, all while enjoying free admission. Denver Museum of Nature and Science. dmns.org

16 Monday

Aspen Film Shortsfest

Hotel Transylvania

4pm

Free screening of Hotel Transylvania: Transformania at the Trunk or Treat event. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled movie night together, complete with snacks, laughter, and quality time. Infinity Park Event Center, Glendale. infinityparkatglendale.com

Cave of the Winds Sleepover Girls of all ages can explore the mysterious depths of the cave, conquer the Wind Walker Challenge Course, discover hidden treasures while panning for gold, and take on the thrill of the Bat-zip-line. Whether you’re a Daisy, Brownie, or beyond, there’s

excitement for everyone. Manitou Springs. girlscoutsofcolorado.org

17 Tuesday

Glow at the Gardens

6-9pm

Step into a world of enchantment at the Glow of the Garden event in the Botanical Gardens. The garden transforms into a magical wonderland illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, creating a captivating and immersive experience. Tickets are only available online. Botanic Gardens, Denver. botanicgardens.org

Garden of the Gods

8am-6pm

Book an expert guide on the Highlights Tour for a 2-3 hour walking adventure, where you’ll explore dedicated paths, capture breathtaking photos, and, if you’re lucky, encounter local wildlife. Garden of the Gods Nature & Visitor Center, Colorado Springs. gardenofgods.com

Scavenger Hunt

10am-7pm

Urban Adventure Quest invites you and the whole family to experience the excitement of a scavenger hunt adventure throughout downtown Denver, LoDo, Golden, or Boulder. Compete against other teams to earn the top score while enjoying a 2-3 hour exploration of the city, blending the thrill of the Amazing Race with city discovery all guided by your smart device. Colorado State Capitol, Denver. urbanadventurequest.com

18 Wednesday

Inspiring Futures

5-5:45pm

Meet virtually with Kim Brundage to learn, early on, what it takes to become a professional branding photographer. Brundage will teach the fundamentals of photography and host a Q&A for aspiring documentarians. Registration is limited to members of Girls Scouts of Colorado. Register online for the Zoom link. girlscoutsofcolorado.org

Toddler’s Fairytale Forest Art Class

10:30-11:30am

Awaken your toddler’s imagination with our Fairy Tale Forest Art Class! Watch as your little ones embark on a creative journey through beloved fairy tales, using art as their canvas for storytelling. Join us for an enchanting experience where young minds can explore their artistic talents and bring fairy tales to life with colors, shapes, and their boundless imaginations. The New Local, Boulder. thenew-local.org

19 Thursday

Serving Children in Need

3:20-6:30pm

Make a meaningful impact in a child’s life through serving a child in need. At the event, serve home-cooked meals to kids and staff of the Residential Program. Ages 21 and up can volunteer. Denver Children’s Home. projecthelping.org

20 Friday

Museum of Outdoor Arts

5pm

Spend the evening watching a movie and enjoy hot drinks, snacks, and outdoor games. Experience the nostalgia of outdoor cinema under the starry night and watch the hilariously dark comedy ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous.’ Admission is $15 per person. Marjorie Park, Greenwood Village. moaonline.org/movienights

Live Music at Sol

6-9pm

Every Friday, bring your loved ones together for a delightful family dinner at Sol Mexican Cocina. Share a meal that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also create cherished moments for your family. Sol Mexicana Cocina, Cherry Creek. eventvesta.com

21 Saturday

Family Day Out

11am-1pm

Uncorked Kitchen is holding a Pumpkin Brunch experience like no other, priced at just $69 per person. Savor a delectable menu featuring pumpkininfused delights such as orange and pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin

and chorizo hash with a perfectly poached egg, and pumpkin apple cupcakes adorned with luscious cream cheese frosting. Uncorked Kitchen, Centennial. uncorkedkitchen.com

Corn Maze at Chatfield Farms

9am-5pm

Get lost in the enchanting world of the Corn Maze at Chatfield Farms, where adventure and excitement await around every corner. Navigate your way through acres of towering cornstalks or not-so-towering stalks in the mini

maze for kids 10 & under. Littleton. botanicgardens.org

22 Sunday

Sensory-Friendly Playtime

10am-Noon

On the third Sunday of every month, head to WOW! Children’s Museum for a sensory-friendly experience, where the museum turns down the sounds and lights and provides adaptive equipment to children and their families. Attendance is limited, and tickets for this playtime are $1 per person. WOW! Children’s Museum, Lafayette. wowchildrenmuseum.org

Bloody Mary Festival

1-3:30pm

Sample delicately garnished variety of bloody marys crafted by competitors from all across Colorado. Spend $50 on general admission tickets, or get the VIP experience for $65. EXDO Event Center. thebloodymaryfest.com

Fall Flannel Festival

11am-2pm

Come around to the Dairy Block Alley for a free and fun lineup of festivities for all ages to enjoy. Arrive in your

best costume and enjoy live music, balloon artists, face painting, kids’ craft stations, and live reptiles demonstrated by staff from the Denver Aquarium. Milk Market. dairyblock.com

23 Monday

Hammonds Factory Tours

9:15am-2:45pm.

Embark on a sweet journey through the delicious history of Hammond’s Candies. Witness skilled artisans handcrafting mouthwatering treats, from lollipops to ribbon candy, using time-honored techniques. Free. 3757 Washington St. hammondscandies.com

Drip, Splat, Repeat!

5-6pm

This 6-week program, designed for kids aged 8-11, offers a nurturing environment where they’ll explore the magic of painting with watercolors, all for $150. 741 Pearl St. Boulder. thenew-local.org

Broadway Halloween Parade

6-9pm

At West Washington Park Halloween Parade, spooky fun meets community

Get lost in the maze, Oct. 21

Trick-or-Treatinyour costume on Oct. 31

spirit. Families can immerse themselves in a whimsical world of costumes, creativity, and candy, as little ghouls and goblins march alongside colorful floats. West Washington Park. wwpna.org

24 Tuesday Nuggets vs Lakers

5:30pm

Calling all basketball fans to tune in to the heated hometown match between our very own Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Lakers. Ball Arena, Denver. nba.com

The Melting Pot

5-7pm

Take a break from cooking when your neighborhood restaurants have a deal like this. Have fun with your food at the Melting Pot and enjoy a vast assortment of specialty cheeses. Kids 10 & under eat free from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Your family may even be visited by the house magician performing tableside illusions and mind reading.

Melting Pot, Littleton. meltingpot.com

25 Wednesday

Boulder County Farmers Market

Gather your family and immerse

yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the local farmers’ market. Explore an array of fresh, seasonal produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts while enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors of your community. Recurring Wednesdays and Saturdays until Nov. 18. Canyon Blvd., Boulder. bcfm.org

26 Thursday

Boulder Cruiser

5pm

Buckle up and dress up for the last cruise of the season, ending on a bang with Halloween. Hop on your bicycles and enjoy the festive community bike ride from Green Leaf Park through suburbs along Boulder Creek up to celebrate the season atop Boulder Creek Boulder Creek Park. facebook. com/happythursdaycruiserride

27 Friday

Monster Mash Bash 4-7pm.

Join the spooktacular fun at the Monster Mash Ball, hosted by Community Cultural Collected at the iconic Colorado Springs City Auditorium. Individual tickets are available for just $13, or gather your family and grab a Family 4-pack for only $29. City Auditorium, Colorado

Spotlight

Springs. eventbrite.com

28 Saturday

Halloween Haunt

4:30pm-8:30pm

Gather your family for a spooktacular night of Halloween fun on October 28th at Four Mile’s Halloween Haunt, featuring eerie crafts, pumpkin decorating, face painting, critters, and games for all ages. Four Mile Historic Park, Denver. fourmilepark.org

29 Sunday

Santa Fe Art Walk

11am-3pm

The Denver Santa Fe Art Walk is a vibrant and dynamic art event that takes place on the first Friday of each month. With a lively atmosphere, street performers, and a variety of art forms on display, it’s an engaging and immersive experience that celebrates the rich artistic culture of Denver. Santa Fe Art District, Denver. denversartdistrict.org

30 Monday

Halloween Kids Fest

Visit the Downtown Aquarium with the family costumes to join Sharky for trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting,

monster mural coloring, conducting science, animal demonstrations, and experiments with the DA staff. Kids tickets are priced at $10 in costume and adults at $27 for standard admission. Denver Aquarium. aquariumrestaurants.com

31 Tuesday

Munchkin Masquerade

3pm-6pm

Take your princesses, superheroes, pirates, and goblins to trick-or-treat on Pearl St. See costumes and animals of all different shapes, size, and color trotting along downtown Boulder. Visit your favorite shops for specialty treats by your favorite local vendors and shop find great deals for a limited time this fall season. Pearl Street Mall, Boulder. boulderdowntown.com

After Dark Ghosts of the City Walking Tour

9pm

Explore dark alleys, historic landmarks, and hear chilling tales that will leave you questioning the paranormal on this unforgettable after-dark adventure. Book your tickets now, $35, and prepare for an evening of ghostly encounters and mysteries. Union Station, Denver. getyourguide.com

Magic of the Jack-O-Lanterns

trail that winds its way through the gardens, lined with meticulously sculpted pumpkins. Each one is a work of art; intricately carved dinosaurs, pirate ships, dragons, sea creatures, and more come to life through the flicker of candlelight within their pumpkins that will transport you to a world of wonder.

Get ready for an illuminating experience that will light up your family’s fall season! During the month of October, the enchanting event “Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns” will illuminate Hudson Gardens in Littleton with a mesmerizing display of over 7,000

Enjoyaspooky month until Oct. 31

hand-carved pumpkins. Presented by Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, this event promises a magical journey for costumed visitors of all ages.

As you step into this wonderland of gourds, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking sight down a glowing

“Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns” isn’t just a visual spectacle; it’s an immersive experience that encourages your family to explore and discover the enchantment that lurks around every corner. Your senses will be delighted as you stroll through the gardens, marveling at the artistry and creativity of the pumpkin carvers. It’s the most captivating light show that adds to the allure of the season.

For families seeking a sensoryfriendly experience, mark your calendars for Sunday, October 8, when Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group partners with the STAR Institute to provide a Low Sensory Night. This special evening ensures that everyone can partake in the magic of the event, making it accessible and enjoyable for all.

Tickets for “Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns” start at just $14.99 for kids and $19.99 for adults on select nights, with children ages 2 & younger entering free of charge.

6115 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton magicofthejackolanterns.com/ denver

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be enchanted by the glow of thousands of pumpkins and the magic they bring to life. It’s an affordable way to create lasting memories with your loved ones while immersing yourself in the magic of the Halloween season.

fresh mindset

[My children] have been able to witness how this all came to be; where it started, how it started–now we are seeing it really takes a lot of hard work and a lot of heart, passion, drive, and determination to start a company from scratch.

CHRISSY FAGERHOLT is a mother of two active boys and values quality family time. Chrissy loves being playful, silly, and connecting with her family, and that’s one reason she created EAP Toy and Games. She says games can help children open up, express themselves, and learn in a fun and exciting way.