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APRIL 2012
✱ TALKING TO KIDS ABOUT SAVING AND SPENDING ✱ DADS DESCRIBE THEIR FIRST JOBS ✱ CAMPS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY ✱ CHOCOLATE MUFFINS: GOOD AND GOOD FOR YOU
CAMP GUIDE 2012
Biz
Kids
Some young Vermont entrepreneurs are earning — and learning — their money.
The topic I’d rather not talk to my kids about is:
a.
Drugs.
b.
The birds and the bees.
c.
War.
d.
Money.
kidsvt.com
If you said D, you’re not alone.
April 2012
That’s why National Life Group is a proud sponsor of Champlain College’s Center for Financial Literacy.
Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
Our employees have been training Vermont teachers to cover financial literacy in their classrooms so the topic of money is no longer taboo. It’s just one of the many ways we help those we care about experience life.
National Life Group® is a trade name representing various affiliates which offer a variety of financial service products.
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THIS ISSUE SPONSORED BY: National Life Group is a proud champion of financial literacy in Vermont and all across the United States.
VOL.19 N O . 3
APRIL 2012
April is tax time, and money is on everyone’s minds. It’s also NATIONAL FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH, which prompted us to offer this package of stories about money matters. We’re grateful to our sponsor, National Life Group, for supporting our work.
DEPARTMENTS From the Kids VT Staff ............................................5 See and Say ......................................................................7 Birthday Club..................................................................47 Use Your Words: Essay ..........................................51
EAT. LEARN. PLAY
Biz Kids...................24
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All Together Now ................................. 28
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
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The Party Planner: Skating Parties .............46 Puzzle Page ......................................................................48 Coloring Contest .........................................................49 Crafting With Kids: Bird Banks .......................50
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Financial Literacy Resources............................. 27
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Some young Vermont entrepreneurs are earning — and learning — their money.
Daily Listings ..................................................................36 Story Times ......................................................................40 Playgroups ........................................................................42 Ongoing Events.............................................................44
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How do parents teach their kids about money, income and inequality?
CALENDAR
Colby Roberts Cathy Resmer Don Eggert Kate Laddison Becky Tharp Kaitlin Montgomery
are earning — and • Safe, loving, and professional learning — their in-home caregivers money. • Professional screening and strict recruitment process
Rich Kid, Poor Kid................................................. 20
The Kids Beat ..................................................................8 Ask Dr. First: Picking a Pediatrician ...........10 Fit Families: Jumping Rope ...............................11 The Librarian Likes ....................................................11 Seeing STARS.................................................................12 The Because Project .................................................13 Home Cookin’: Chocolate Muffins.....................14 Out to Eat: Boloco ......................................................15 Go Ask Dad: First Jobs.............................................16 The Art of … Music Composition ...................17
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Some young
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And the winner is…
Parenting Media Association awards top honors to Kids VT
W
hen Seven Days bought Kids VT in December, 2010, we redesigned the magazine to give it a fresh look and filled it with lots of local content. We’ve heard from readers that they like the changes we’ve made, but it was especially gratifying to get positive feedback from our peers in the Parenting Media Association. Last month, in San Antonio, Texas, the PMA announced the winners in its annual Editorial and Design Awards Competition. Kids VT competed against other publications with a circulation of 30,000 and under. We won six awards, including:
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Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
April 2012
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1. Best Overall Writing 2. Best Overall Design 3. Best Illustration Cover, Newsprint (February 2011) 4. Best Service Feature (“Toy Story,” November 2011) 5. Best Briefs/Short Stuff (The Kids Beat) 6. Best Special Series (Vermont “Day-cations,” June-August 2011) 11
ALL NEW!
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“The magazine isn’t afraid to dedicate the space to a solid piece of reporting. But the publication also succeeds in mixing it up, offering a nice balance of shorter and longer pieces.” “Kids VT has a fresh appeal with its simple, bold presentation and appealing use of illustrations. The inside layout was very strong: consistent use of white space, successful hierarchy of font usage and a well-designed calendar. It was the little things that stood out: recipe N DESIG design, use of rules, NOTES labels, bold-face leadins. This show designers who put a lot of attention into the small details on each page for reader service.”
CONTE N NOTES T
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“The ‘Kids Beat’ sections are bright and easy to read with fun headlines.”
Thanks to our talented and passionate staff, our dedicated readers, and our fantastic advertisers for making our first year so successful.
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There are Too many financialliTeracy lessons To counT in this month’s issue of Kids VT. Some kids have already “gotten it”; the “Biz Kids” featured on page 24 could teach many of us parents a thing or two. Money’s a tricky topic. There’s a lot of emotion attached: pride in providing for our families, fear when there’s not enough, worry about future resources. In his feature story on page 20, Ken Picard asks the experts the best way to foster healthy economic awareness in kids. How do you answer questions such as “Are we poor?” and “How come Emma had to move out of her house?” It’s never too early to talk about family finances. The Boys & Girls Club of Burlington starts talking to kids in kindergarten about financial planning and career goals. Jim White, who’s been teaching “Growing Money” classes through the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity for a dozen years, says kids take their cues from parents, whether the lessons are explicit discussions about the grocery bill or implicit messages about money troubles or triumphs. Parents may find financial literacy hard to teach because it’s something they themselves haven’t fully gotten a handle on. Read about CVOEO’s “Growing Money” classes in the sidebar on page 27. Having grown up in post-World War II England, Tim Brookes has a different philosophy about money — and buying presents — than his wife does. His essay about gift giving references Dickens and Rowling. My son and I were reading He Bear, She Bear recently when I asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up. “A dad,” Oliver said. I marveled at his innocence and left it at that. Looking back, I probably should have gone ahead and started talking him about what we do versus who we are. I’m not sure I have any “right” answers, but a discussion on planning for the future — for financial goals and career ones — would probably be a wise investment. KaTe laddison, managing ediTor kate@kidsvt.com
Need to fill an Easter Basket?
April 2012 KidsVT.com April 2012 Kids VT Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors: Tim Brookes (“Use Your Words”) is the director of the Professional Writing Program at Champlain College, but he’s still convinced that bankruptcy and debtors prison are just a heartbeat away. Emily Rose (“Crafting With Kids”) is the sales assistant at Seven Days. In her free time, she’s a crafter who enjoys scrapbooking and making cards. Her latest project was jazzing up an old picture frame. Ana Ruesink (“The Art of...”) writes about an online tool that helps Vermont kids become composers. Neither of her daughters composes music, though they’re both violinists. Ana is also a violist and plays with the Burlington Chamber Orchestra, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and anyone else who will hire her.
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Lindsay J. Westley (“All Together Now”) is a freelance writer living in South Hero who contributes to Seven Days, the Washington Post and Dwell. This is her second camp-related feature for Kids VT. Lindsay went to three different summer camps when she was a kid; her favorite activities were hiking and rock climbing. k4t-EarlsCyclery0412R.indd 1
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Sat. Sept. 8 ¡ 10–11:00am Beautiful Birds*
Sat. June 9 ¡ 10–11:00am Dig, plant, Grow!
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Sat. July 7 ¡ 10–11:00am What’s bugging you and your garden?
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April 2012
Wherever you go in life, we’ll be here for you. • Student Loans for all types of education and training • Checking and Saving Accounts
Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
• Auto Loans • Online and Mobile Banking • RightTrack Financial Education for Young Adults Learn how to get started with all of your “financial firsts.â€? Visit nefcu.com or call 802-879-8790.
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SEE AND SAY
Q:
How do you handle allowances in your family?
Slightly more than half of the parents who answered our poll — 55 percent — give allowances to their kids. In most of those households, the kids decide how to spend the cash: Thirty-one percent said kids spend allowances however they like. In 24 percent of the families, the allowances have a focus: daily expenditures, savings, spending or charity.
don’t giv allowances e .
4%
Other
Our kids have to split their allowances into savings, donations and spending money.
31% 6%
Lucky us! We got a lot of submissions for last month’s St. Patrick’s Day-themed coloring contest and enjoyed the bright, shiny coins included in many of your pots of gold. Thanks to the 111 of you who sent us your artwork. Our panel of judges was impressed.
18%
HONORABLE MENTIONS
SPOT-ON POLKA DOT SHOES “Lucky Day” Mallie Allen, 8, Burlington BEST FAIR-WEATHER CLOUDS “The Lucky Day” Cecie Ladd, 8, St. Albans
WILLIAMSTOWN
“St. Patrick’s Day”
MOST METEREOLOGICALLY ACCURATE “St. Patrick’s Day” Carly Trapeni, 7, Shelburne SENSATIONAL SCRIBBLES “Lucky Freddy” Sean Patrick Kennedy, 5, Shelburne GROOVY GREENS “Mr. Green” Beatrice Dirkmaat, 3, Underhill
Write an explanatory caption for this photo and we’ll publish the best ones in next month’s issue. Send an email to: kate@kidsvt.com.
Your comments should • be no more than 250 words long, • respond to Kids VT content, and • include your full name, town and a daytime phone number.
“Lucky Leprechaun”
TOP TITLES
“Super Rainbow Person Guy” Tess Fontana, 5, South Burlington “Rainbow Connection” Mason Sylvester, 6, St. Albans “Shiny Happy Shamrock” Mason Allen, 7, Georgia “Under the Rainbow” Emily Cueto, 9, St. Albans “St. Backward’s Day” Noah Cueto, 11, St. Albans
Emily Benz, 11 BURLINGTON
See the winning submissions at kidsvt.com. Find this month’s contest on page 49. The deadline is April 15.
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow”
9 to 12
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Email us at feedback@kidsvt.com or send a letter to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. We also reprint comments we receive via Facebook and Twitter, with permission from the authors. Kids VT reserves the right to edit for accuracy and length.
FAIRFAX
KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com KIDSVT.COM APRIL 2012 KIDS VT
Caption Call!
SWEET SPARKLES, BOSS EMBOSSING “I’m Feelin’ Lucky” Savana Senecal, 11, Milton
Keely Arnold, 8
APRIL 2012
BEST CLOVER IN CAMOUFLAGE “Zombie Clover” Vincent Marias, 10, Underhill
5 to 8
KIDSVT.COM
MOST COLORFUL CLOVER “The Amazing Rainbow” Heaven Omari, 10, St. Albans
Kids VT wants to publish your rants and raves.
Katelyn Reagan, 4
4 and under
PAINTERLY PERFECTION “St. Patrick’s Day” Emma Lowry, 8, Burlington
Our kids use their allowances to help with lunches and clothing.
Speak Up!
Winners get $10 deposited in a TD Bank savings account. They are...
BEST DEPICTION OF AN ITCHY VIRUS “Chicken Pox on St. Patrick’s Day” Emerson Rice, 6, Panton
Our kids spend their allowances however they like.
41% We
COLORING CONTEST
THE
BEAT
B Y K AT E L AD D I S ON
BUSINESS
Nappy Time
KIDSVT.COM
Don’t know the difference between an all-in-one and a pocket? Bummis or Thirsties? It’s time to get the poop on cloth diapering, and a new local company is ready to help. Cambridge resident Jessie Rogers just launched DIAPER DAYS, an online store and cloth-diaperingresource website. Rogers decided to set up shop after her own research during her pregnancy. “I found the information overwhelming,” she says, “I just wanted someone knowledgeable to help guide me.” Through Roger’s site you can buy several brands of diapers and accessories, learn about different systems, and get the schedule of Cloth 101 courses Rogers conducts at the offices of an Essex doula and childbirth education business. Business happens.
APRIL 2012
DIAPER DAYS: Diaperdaysvt.com. Cloth 101 classes offered at Birth Journeys, 4 Kellogg Road, Essex Junction. Info, 881-9451.
BOOKS 3/22/12 12:12 PM
Like what you see?
Kids VT presents information on everything from family programs and services to products and entertainment.
Why not advertise? Contact Kaitlin today!
Kaitlin Montgomery kaitlin@kidsvt.com 985-5482 x72
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KIDS VT MONEY KIDSVT.COM BY: NationalLifeGroup.com APRILISSUE 2012 SPONSORED
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Beyond National Geographic East Africa is a long way from East Montpelier. Unless, that is, you’re a Vermont kid connecting with African tribespeople via Skype. Stowe photographer and author Jan Reynolds has written several books on vanishing cultures — the most recent of which, ONLY THE MOUNTAINS DO NOT MOVE, is about the nomadic Maasai tribe. But local kids don’t have to settle for gorgeous pictures of the colorful Kenyans who favor red plaid garments and elaborate beaded jewelry. A Vermont fundraiser last year financed the purchase of an iPad, a smartphone, solar batteries and a charger for the Africans, so the kids — from both continents — can communicate directly with each other.
ONLY THE MOUNTAINS DO NOT MOVE: A MAASAI STORY OF CULTURE AND CONSERVATION: By Jan Reynolds, Lee & Low Books, 40 pages, $18.95 hardcover, $9.95 softcover, ages 6 and up. Info, janreynolds.com.
EAT. LEARN. PLAY. FILE: CALEB KENNA
SCIENCE
Inside Out Remember the uproar over the unidentified Chinese cadavers in “Bodies: The Exhibition”? OUR BODY: THE UNIVERSE WITHIN is the family-friendly version. In April, the traveling exhibit brings 200 preserved human bodies to the newly opened and expanded Lakeside Pavillion at the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center. The online “Family Outing” guide offers tips to prepare kids for the experience, including fun facts: Did you know babies have 300 bones at birth, but 206 later on? Don’t let the anatomical correctness scare you; it’s too good a learning experience to pass up. ECHO is collaborating on this one with the UVM College of Medicine, which has provided additional videos. “This is a unique and powerful way for folks to experience for themselves the wonders of the human body,” says ECHO executive director Phelan Fretz.
OUR BODY: THE UNIVERSE WITHIN: April 14 through September 30 at the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center. General admission: $9.50-12.50, additional price for Our Body exhibit: $6-$8.
FINANCIAL LITERACY
Funny Money
New Kicks
KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
ECONOMY OF ME: Colin Ryan speaks at Montpelier High School on Tuesday, April 3, and the New England Educational Opportunity Association conference on Thursday, April 5. Info, 861-7037, economyofme.com.
APRIL 2012
So long Snyder’s. Hello FUSION. A Colchester tae kwon do studio is under new ownership. Damir Alisa and Leslie St. Pierre — both former Snyder’s teachers — bought the place from their former employer. They’ve given it a makeover and diversified their offerings, an approach that aims at blending mind, body and spirit. There are new yoga and conditioning classes, for example. But tae kwon do is still the main attraction — family sessions and others geared for a range of ages, from kids to adult. Alisa and St Pierre want to be more than just a martial-arts school — they’d like to create a welcoming atmosphere that develops students of all ages into good citizens. Meanwhile, Snyder’s is still operating in St. Albans.
KIDSVT.COM
FITNESS
FUSION TAE KWON DO: 110 Elm Court, Colchester. Info, 860-6312, fusiontaekwondo.wordpress.com.
Money is not usually a laughing matter, but financial literacy instructor and standup comic Colin Ryan does his best in ECONOMY OF ME. Targeting Vermont high school students, Ryan engages kids with lines like “Budgeting is one of the most life-changing things I’ve ever done. And believe me, I know exactly how boring that makes me sound.” The need is there, based on financial-literacy surveys conducted by the Association of Vermont Credit Unions. The group paid for Ryan, a San Diego native and former journalist, to bring his popular presentation to more than 5000 students, from Rutland to Richford. “Not only is this exactly the kind of message we need high school students to hear,” suggests Marti Kingsley of the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation. “This is exactly who they need to hear it from: a dynamic presenter like Colin who they will actually listen to.”
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Q ASK DR. FIRST
How do you pick a pediatrician? b y ken Pi c a r d
Got questions for Dr. First? Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.
One OF THe mOST ImpORTAnT DecISIOnS facing new parents might be one they overlook: how to choose a health care provider for their baby. Pediatric health care involves more than just routine checkups and vaccines. These days, a child needs coordinated care from a “medical home” that takes a comprehensive approach to his or her well-being, from diaper stage to high school graduation. But how do parents decide on a primary care provider? This month, Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care, offers tips for selecting one that’s right for you and your child.
KIDS VT: How early do parents need to start the selection process? LEWIS FIRST: It’s important that parents begin three to four months before the baby is born. Hopefully, babies will go to term, but if they’re born prematurely, it’s preferable to not just use the hospital’s neonatal team, but also have them working with your own provider. If you suddenly need to pick a pediatrician or family physician because the baby has been born sooner than expected and you have not looked into whom you want to use, you may not feel as comfortable with the choice you make. 3/21/12 10:16 AMKVT: What’s the difference between
Planning a kids event? List your event for free in the Kids VT monthy calendar. Submit your info by the 15th of the month online at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com
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aPril 2012
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using a family practitioner and a pediatrician? LF: A family practitioner will be able to follow you and your baby together as a unit because of their training in health care for both children and adults. On the other hand, family physicians don’t specialize in advanced training for children’s health care but will partner with pediatricians if those needs arise, which is what pediatricians do. Family physicians will still turn to a pediatrician if they feel they need added expertise for a particular problem. KVT: What about nurse practitioners? LF: Pediatric and family physician practices may also have, as part of their medical home, nurse practitioners. NPs also have special training in pediatrics, and many people like using them because they can have added expertise in specialized areas such as breast feeding and nutrition. Nurse practitioners can also write prescriptions, order tests and follow their own patients, but also know when to refer a patient to a general pediatrician or pediatric specialist. KVT: So how do parents start searching? LF: The best kind of searching begins with word of mouth recommendations
3/25/11 8:24 AM
from other friends, neighbors, and coworkers — especially if they share parenting philosophies that are similar to your own. KVT: What if parents are new to a community? LF: Obstetricians can often make recommendations. These days, there are also other background checks you can make. For example, you can go to the Vermont Board of Medical Practice website, which lists doctors for whom complaints have been registered. The American Board of Pediatrics website lists which doctors are board-certified and who has recertified within the required amount of time. The American Board of Family Medicine also lists family physicians who are board-certified in each state.
not in the office. Who else may see your child? Is this a teaching practice? This would mean that medical students and pediatric residents also will see patients in that practice. How long are typical visits? What happens if you call after hours? Are there evening and weekend hours? How are calls returned and how quickly? Other issues to talk about include how much time they spend discussing safety, nutrition, fitness, the environment other non-illness-related topics such as sleep and behavior. KVT: What are some questions parents may not think of? LF: Does this practice use email? Does it have a website? What hospitals is it affiliated with? How strongly does the practice advocate for and help with breast feeding? What’s their opinion on alternative, complementary and integrated medicine? What’s the practice’s approach to antibiotics? How do doctors explain the importance of vaccines? What’s its philosophy on circumcision? What do they advise regarding issues such as co-sleeping and vegetarian diets? Families need to find a practice that will be respectful and supportive of their lifestyle and maximize the health of their child.
There’s no such thing as a stupid question to ask your health care provider.
KVT: Is it appropriate for parents to interview a prospective physician? LF: I strongly believe that you should pay a visit to the practice and meet the doctor, nurse practitioner or health care provider who will be primarily responsible for your child. This lets you know whether this is someone you’re comfortable with and whose style and personality work well with you and your child. It also lets you take a look at the office. Look at the staff who greet you. Look at the parking — its availability and accessibility. A prenatal visit also allows you to judge if your provider is credible, affable, reliable and knowledgeable and meets your needs. Then parents should ask questions. KVT: What are the best questions to ask? LF: Ask about their training, experience, who else works in the practice and how they provide coverage when they’re
KVT: How else can parents prepare for the meeting? LF: It’s a great idea to write down your interview questions in advance so you don’t get flustered when you meet. There’s no such thing as a stupid question to ask your health care provider. If parents feel uncomfortable asking questions about anything that concerns them about their child, that practice is probably not the right fit. K
EAT. LEARN. PLAY. Matthew Thorsen
Q FIT FAMILIES
B y S ara h T uff
Jump Roping for Joy
Casey Clark
rope under in just the right moment,” says Clark. “Once the jumpers start to gain confidence, you won’t need to watch as closely.” Clark says she counts students off “One, two, ready,” adding “go” right when the rope is almost above their heads. “By the time they hear me and move their bodies, it will be about the same time the rope goes under.” Mastering the tricky art of doubleDutch jumping takes practice: big jump, then little jump. “Kids should continue that rhythm so that they
A rope of appropriate length
Where to go: some open space, indoors or out
don’t jump too soon,” says Clark. “They can practice the big-jump, little-jump rhythm even when they aren’t jumping under the rope.” With Clark’s advice in mind, I decided to give jump roping a whirl with my kids during the recent spell of summerlike weather. That is, after they stopped fighting over the rope and begging that we do the limbo or turn the rope into a snake. Finally, my 5-year-old daughter and I were positioned as the swingers, with my 3-year-old son as the jumper. “One, two, ready,” we proclaimed. At “go,” he promptly ran in the other direction. “Miss Mary Mack”? Not yet. But we shared enough giggles to keep the rope readily available for some instant fun — and fitness. K
“The Librarian Likes” features a different librarian and book each month. Got an idea for a future LL? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
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“Fit Families” is a monthly feature that offers easy and affordable ways to stay active. Got an idea for a future FF? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
Why it’s memorable: Vibrant illustrations convey the warmth of this family and the generosity of the neighborhood in which they live. Reminiscent of the response to Irene’s devastation here in Vermont, the book offers hope through hard work, fiscal discipline and a caring community. K
Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
Casey Clark, jump-rope teacher
What you need:
April 2012
“Adults can swing the rope and kids can jump … It’s a great way to get their energy out.”
Graf’s summary: This Caldecott Honor Book offers lessons in saving and working together as a family. Readers see the story Librarian: from a young Mary Graf, girl’s point of youth services view — a girl who librarian, sometimes helps Brownell her waitress Library, Essex mother by wiping Junction salt and pepper shakers and Book: A Chair filling ketchup for my Mother, bottles. Half of written by Vera her pay, and all of B. Williams her mother’s tips, go into a big jar at Age range: home. 3 to 7 What are they saving for? A big, soft chair for Mama to rest in after a long day’s work. The previous year, they had lost all their belongings in a fire. Their neighbors helped them furnish a new apartment, but they are still without a sofa and a comfy chair. When the jar fills up, the family rolls up the coins and brings them to the bank to exchange for bills. On the mother’s day off, they finally go shopping for their dream: a rose-colored velvet armchair.
kidsvt.com
Somewhere deep in a dusty corner of my brain is a memory of jumping rope in an Ontario school yard at age 11, double Dutching, “Miss Mary Mack” and all. But as an adult who’s tried just about every sport, for some reason I just never picked it up again. Nor have my kids, ages 3 and 5. That’s a missed opportunity, according to Burlington jump-rope teacher Casey Clark, who’s been leading Pee Wee Jump Roping and Junior Jump Ropers for kids ages 5 to 12 at the Miller Community Recreation Center in Burlington’s New North End. “It’s a great activity for the whole family,” says Clark. “Adults can swing the rope and kids can jump. Kids just need a lot of encouragement, and they love the attention of you watching them shine. It’s a great way to get their energy out.” Plus, as Clark also points out, it’s affordable fun. Before you or your kids take a single hop, though, find the right length of rope. Have your child hold each handle and stand on the rope’s midpoint, pulling it up alongside his or her body. “Ideally the rope handles would just reach one’s armpits,” says Clark. “And when they’re jumping with the rope, it should just brush the floor.” Next, let your kids practice on their own, having them start with their arms behind their head, holding the rope, and then simply bringing it down to jump over. “It might be hard to get that first jump,” says Clark, “but once they do, their confidence starts to build.” Now’s a good time to crank up the Katy Perry, she adds: “Energizing music makes jumping much more fun.” For single and double Dutch — in which two people turn one or two ropes, while a third jumps — the swingers need to be as focused as the jumper, at least at first. “Those swinging the rope should really watch the jumper closely and try to get the
Q The Librarian Likes
MATTHEW THORSEN
Nancy Elder
✱ CHILDCARE
Seeing
The grade on Vermont’s childcare, preschool and after school programs VERMONT’S STEP AHEAD RECOGNITION SYSTEM (STARS) is designed to help parents evaluate programs that care for their kids. Sponsored by the Child Development Division of the Vermont Department for Children and Families, STARS assigns star rankings to participating childcare, preschool and after school programs. The process is much more thorough than a simple site visit. To receive a ranking, programs must complete an application that assesses progress in five areas: compliance with state regulations, staff qualifications and training, communication and support of children, families and communities, providers’ self-assessments and plans for improvements, and the strength of a program’s operating policies and business practices. Simply by completing the process, programs demonstrate a desire to go above and beyond the minimum state standards. The STARS coordinators assign applicants one to five stars. A single star
APRIL 2012
KIDSVT.COM
BOLTON Lisa’s Playhouse
3215 Theodore Roosevelt Highway, 434-2570
Smilie Preschool Program Smilie Memorial School, 2712 Theodore Roosevelt Highway, 434-2757
means a program is new or examining its practices and working to improve them; a five-star ranking signifies that a program is established and outstanding in all areas. A ranking is good for three years, though each applicant must complete an annual review to maintain it. STARS helps parents assess a program’s quality and professionalism, and it can also save them money. Parents who meet the state’s income eligibility guidelines may pay less for childcare if they enroll their children in programs with three, four or five stars. Each month, Kids VT publishes an excerpt of the list of STARS participants. This month’s “Seeing STARS” features participating programs in Bolton, Charlotte, Hinesburg, Huntington, Richmond and Shelburne. Find more information about STARS, a complete list of rankings, and other childrcare resources at dcf.vermont. gov/cdd/stars.
Charlotte Children’s Center (Seekers)
Penny Blanchette
Y School Age Program at Charlotte
HUNTINGTON
116 Ferry Road, 425-3328
Charlotte Central School, 408 Hinesburg Road, 862-9622
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KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED KIDSVT.COM BY: NationalLifeGroup.com MARCH 2012
HINESBURG Y School Age Program at Bolton
Smilie Memorial School, 2712 Theodore Roosevelt Highway, 862-9622
CHARLOTTE Charlotte Central School Early Education Program 408 Hinesburg Road, 425-6691
Charlotte Children’s Center 116 Ferry Road, 425-3328
Annette’s Preschool
96 Pond Road, 482-2525
Hinesburg Community School Early Education Program
10888 Route 116, 482-2106
Hinesburg Nursery School Masonic Temple, 10856 Route 116, 482-3827
81 Hemlock Hill Road, 482-2516
Brewster Pierce Memorial School
120 School Street, 434-2074
Y School Age Program at Huntington Brewster Pierce, Memorial School, 120 School Street, 862-9622
RICHMOND Pam’s Day Kids
3453 East Main Street, 434-2608
Richmond Elementary Preschool
120 School Street, 434-2461
SHINING STAR Each month, Kids VT spotlights one five-star program from the featured geographical area. Charlotte Children’s Center 116 Ferry Road, 425-3328 Type of program: Childcare center Year established: 1984 Age range of children: 6 weeks to 8 years old Last field trip: Charlotte Volunteer Fire Station Favorite rainy-day activity: Playing outside in the rain and in mud puddles. There’s no bad weather; only bad clothing. Favorite book, song or art project: Children incorporate lots of natural materials into their artwork. Special programming: Offering our first-ever summer camp for 5- to 8-year-olds.
Y School Age Program at Camels Hump
My First Friends Daycare
104 Marsett Road, 985-9160
Camels Hump Middle School, 173 School Street, 862-9622
Puddle Jumpers Daycare Y School Age Program at Richmond
Richmond Elementary Preschool, 120 School Street, 862-2254
SHELBURNE
187 Oak Hill Road, 985-5426
Shelburne Community School, EEE
345 Harbor Road, 985-3311
Acorn Child Care
Shelburne Nursery School
145 Pine Haven Shore, Suite 2013, 985-8118
Shelburne Methodist Church, 30 Church Street, 985-3993
Adventures in Early Learning
Y School Age Program at Shelburne
17 Drew Lane, 985-9025
Heart Works School— Shelburne 4066 Shelburne Road, 985-2153
Shelburne Community School, 345 Harbor Road, 862-9622
EAT. LEARN. PLAY. VERMONT CHILDREN’S TRUST FOUNDATION PRESENTS THE:
BECAUSE PROJECT I developed a passion for acting
BECAUSE of my first theater teacher, Joan Wing.
Kim Jordan,
MATTHEW THORSEN
FOUNDER, PROGRAM DIRECTOR AND TEACHING ARTIST, THEATRE-IN-ACTION, BURLINGTON
WITH SUPPORT FROM
The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation supports statewide prevention programs for children and families to help give all kids a fair chance at success.
The Because Project asks Vermonters to share their stories about people and experiences that have shaped their lives, especially during their formative years — stories that may inspire others to get involved. Because together we can all make a difference.
A
s a kid, I had what I deemed “off-stage fright.” I was a pale, awkward, sometimes socially inappropriate white girl with a dark Afro. I had a gravelly voice and used big words. Then, when I was 7 years old, I joined Riverside Children’s Theatre in Riverside, Calif., where I learned to project my voice, tap dance and sing pitch-perfect lyrics to every song in Annie. Joan Wing was my first teacher there. Joan recognized that I wanted to be famous. I wanted to be Annie. She played acting and theater games with her students. She’d give us a hat or sunglasses or cane, and we’d create characters and become each other’s audience. She taught me to memorize lines — and that no one dies from forgetting their lines onstage. She showed me that we wear masks all of the time: We play various characters offstage in our lives, and the more aware we are of what we want (our motivations) and how we get it (our tactics), the better we know ourselves (our character). Above all, she taught me to improvise in front of an audience, to trust my instincts and create something from nothing. One afternoon, Joan called me at home. A childabuse prevention organization had approached her in need of a child actress for educational videos they were creating. Joan thought I would be perfect. When the
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aD
en
er
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M
ng aki
er iff
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h et
to sara@vtchildrenstrust.org. Submissions should be 300 to 600 words long and respond to the prompt "I am/ decided to/learned to _______ because of ______." Kids VT will feature one of these stories in each issue.
APRIL 2012
FOR A COMMON GOAL
Submit your stories for the Because Project
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WORKING TOGETHER
camera crew came to my house, I felt like I was doing something important. Those child-abuse-prevention films were shown in elementary schools throughout Riverside. Once in a while, a kid or parent would stop me in the mall to ask if I was that kid in the video. I didn’t feel like just a regular kid; I was an actress. Not one of those creepy child stars, but someone who acted out stories. This is what Joan taught me to do — act out stories believably. Joan believed in me. She saw a spark in me, which helped me see that spark in myself. Now I run my own theater program, Theatre-inAction. I use improvisational techniques to educate youth about bullying prevention, conflict resolution and social justice. I’ve run workshops in schools and at social service organizations in Burlington, St. Albans and Montpelier and throughout Vermont. I think about Joan a lot — she’s the one who taught me that grown-ups can ignite a kid’s passions. That improvisation builds resilience, collaboration and acceptance. That theater can be a tool to help a child know herself.
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The Muffin Man THE MUFFIN HAS BEEN THROUGH A LOT. It’s been diminished in size and blown up to unreasonable proportions, thanks to mini- and jumbo-muffin tins. As a breakfast food, it’s been thrown over for “healthier” options. But muffins are good — and they can be good for you. And chocolaty. These muffins make a perfect breakfast treat or portable snack. Packed with protein and whole grains, they are nearly fat free — the yogurt replaces the usual butter or oil. The muffins can be baked, frozen and thawed out whenever the kids need a chocolate fix.
0:30
DOUBLE-CHOCOLATE MUFFINS ¾ cup white whole-wheat flour ¾ cup oat flour* 1 cup packed brown sugar ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt 1 large egg ¼ cup milk 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract ⅔ cup bittersweet chocolate chips
Hamburger or Cheeseburger Eddie Spaghetti Made with marinara or butter. $5 | add meatballs for $1.5
KIDS MENU
Grilled Cheese Texas toast with cheddar & american cheese. Served with a side of hand-cut fries. $5
Chicken Tenders Free-range chicken tenders. Served with a side of hand-cut fries. $6
PT farms all-natural grass-fed beef. Served with a side of hand-cut fries. $6.5
Personal Pie Comes with cheese & choice of 1 topping. $6 | add additional toppings for $.75
Pizza Roll Fresh baked dough wrapped with mozzarella, herbs & choice of pepperoni or broccoli. $6
3. 4. 5.
6.
MARYELLEN APELQUIST
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APRIL 2012
KIDSVT.COM
1. 2.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a standard-size 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper muffin cups. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Set aside. In a small bowl, mix the yogurt, egg, milk and vanilla. Fold wet ingredients into dry, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips. Divide batter equally into muffin cups. Bake 13 to 16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack.
MAKES 12 MUFFINS
Steps the kids can help with: • Preparing muffin tin • Measuring ingredients • Whisking dry ingredients • Mixing batter • Folding in chocolate chips • Filling muffin cups with batter • Setting the timer • Testing muffins with toothpick
*For a wheat-free option, these muffins can be made with oat flour only, rather than a combination of wheat and oat flours. The texture will be nuttier and may take some getting used to.
EAT. LEARN. PLAY. ✱ OUT TO EAT B Y CINDY M O RGAN
Boloco
92 Church Street, Burlington, 658-9771
Clockwise from center: Adi, Ali, Katie, Kender and Ellie
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AMENITIES:
Kids menu with 1-2-3 approach to ordering and $4.95 kids meal, high chairs, changing station in the larger rest room.
OUR BILL FOR FIVE: $50
“Out to Eat” is a monthly family-friendly restaurant review. Where should we eat next? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
Spring Cleaning Bring in your gently used gel or mousse & take $5 OFF Goldwell/KMS styling product Products will be donated to Women Helping Battered Women
Main Street, Burlington • 862.1670
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Where you’re more than just another pretty face!
KIDS VT KIDSVT.COM APRIL 2012 KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
cups speaks to the company’s values, as well. The only possible trouble for parents? A “loco” number of good choices. I think we’ll try them all over time. On April 4, the company is giving away free small burritos to celebrate 15 years in business. The Burlington restaurant — No. 13 — opened in July 2008.
APRIL 2012
inexpensive. The functional dining room — with no décor to speak of — was the ideal setting for three exuberant 10-year-olds. Boston-based Boloco works hard to please with a menu that includes hormone-free chicken and steak, all-natural pork, vegetarian, vegan and allergy-sensitive and gluten-free options. Their use of compostable
KIDSVT.COM
10-year-olds standing before him. His expression implied the kids meal — mini burrito, healthy side and drink — probably wouldn’t be enough for them. We all ordered original-size burritos for $6.25 each: Buffalo, Summer, Bangkok Thai, Classic Mexican and a Goloco, aka choose your own ingredients. The boys snagged a booth in the casual but clean dining area, while my daughter and I watched our burritos being made with our noses pressed to the glass. The speed and efficiency of the assembly line was impressive. I could have watched it a lot longer, but our order was up within minutes. We marveled at the wellengineered wraps. Ones I’ve had in the past have fallen apart the moment I picked them up; these tightly rolled burritos held together, from the first chewy bite to the last. “This is really spicy,” my son said after biting into his Buffalo chicken and guzzling half his lemonade. I tried a bite. Holy cow, it was spicy. But he was a trouper, leaving only a pile of buffalo sauce-soaked rice that my husband finished off. The only thing we didn’t polish off was a cup of bland salsa. We ate every made-on-site tortilla chip, and I wiped the guacamole container with a finger. The only miss in the order was our guest’s Summer burrito: The steak was chewy and the ingredients were poorly distributed. Overall, the meal was good and
MATTHEW THORSEN
THE FEBRUARY VACATION WEEK ate up most of our dining budget. But I still didn’t feel like cooking. So we went for a healthy option I knew we could afford: budget-friendly burritos. “Welcome to Boloco” is how the friendly manager behind the counter greeted us on a recent Friday night. “Are you familiar with our menu?” Five heads shook. Gesturing at the huge menu suspended over his head, he said, “Start by picking a flavor, then choose a filling: chicken, carnitas, steak, tofu, veggies … then any extras.” Flavor? I thought we were getting burritos — meat, rice, beans, salsa. Options included Buffalo, with spicy buffalo sauce and blue cheese dressing; Cajun, featuring Cajun spices, corn salsa and black beans; and Memphis BBQ — barbecue sauce, coleslaw, rice and beans. And there were more where those came from. The flavor choices overwhelmed my twins and the friend they’d brought along, so we let the college student behind us go ahead. Then my son’s friend, clearly annoyed at our indecision, strode up to the counter and ordered. I nudged my kids forward, telling them, “They will put whatever you want in a burrito; just order.” The manager presented more choices. White or wheat tortilla? Size? White rice or brown? Black beans or pinto? Just to make things more confusing, I asked about the kids menu. The manager sized up the three
Q go ask DaD
Q: Have you seen our new website?
What lessons did you learn from your first job? How will your kids’ experience likely be different?
Dave Meek
Travis Perry
essex, Personal Trainer aT The eDge
Children: sons Alexander, 8, and Thomas, 4
shelDon, verMonT sTuDenT assisTance corPoraTion cusToMer relaTions
• A directory of family resources
My first job was a “paper round.” It was an evening paper in England, where I grew up, so I’d finish school, go home and head to the news agent’s at, like, 3:30 and pick up my bag full of papers. I’d have certain houses to deliver to, on my bike. I did that for maybe three years — I think I was maybe 13 to 16. Once I’d done it for a couple of years, I switched to mornings because the morning paper round paid more. I think it taught me a little self-discipline, because I had to get up in the morning, and there were people relying on me. It’ll be different for Alex and Tom. They don’t do that around here — the guy who delivers papers drives along in his car. I don’t think they would even hire a kid that age. Why that is, I don’t know; it’s not like it’s a difficult job. I don’t know what they’d do for a job. My wife, Melanie, says Alex is going to be a lifeguard. He can already swim like a fish. I bought records with my money, like vinyls. Isn’t that crazy? I’ve probably got three or four hundred vinyls back in England. Will I let Alex buy music? You know what? It’s his money; he can spend it how he wants to.
My first real job was at a farm and garden store. I grew up in the Northeast Kingdom, and it was in Newport. I was working in the warehouse and garden area of the Agway. It was actually not a bad job. It was my first time dealing with all sorts of people. I remember it being a lot harder than I expected. I wasn’t used to moving around 50-pound bags of grain. I think I made maybe $5 an hour, which I thought was good. I did it during my school breaks and all summer long for five years. I’m sure it’s going to be different for my son. It’s still going to be learning how to deal with all sorts of people, having a boss, having to be on time, to be responsible. I think that’s not going to change. It might be different in how it’s executed. He may not be lifting big bags of grain; he may be doing something a little more technical, something more with computers. But the basic aspects of it will still be the same. Which is why I would encourage him whenever he feels ready to start getting a job.
• New tools to customize your experience.
MaTT DoDDs
In between monthly magazines, keep up with us online. Go to kidsvt.com for... • User-friendly calendar of events
Children: son, Forrest, 15; daughter, Amelia, 13
My first job was as a book packer. A neighbor down the street had an operation where he got remainder books and would send them down to regular buyers, like libraries. He would store them in his barn, and when the order came in, my brother and other kids around, we’d all pack them. I remember I really liked the idea that I could make money. That was quite empowering. My kids both have things happening this summer. My daughter just started working at Windswept Farm. She’s a nutter for the horses. Gonzo’s, an indoor golf place, wants my son to take kids around on a golf cart. Steve Gonzolvez, who runs Gonzo’s Indoor Golf, also runs a junior golf clinic in the summer. He’s just asked my son to help him out. Because kids are swinging clubs around each other, he needs help keeping them safe. It’s nice to see that he would trust Forrest. I think Forrest likes the idea of working with kids — which he’s always been great with — but also in getting in some free rounds of golf over the summer. Beats packing books! I can’t say that we’ve instilled business sense in the kids, per se. But they’ve had a front-row seat on our growing a small, mom-and-pop business over the past 10 years. It’s not a 9-to-5 kind of job. It takes a lot of our weekends. My wife Anne and I never liked leaving the kids alone, so we’ve packed them up to go to the office, and they’ve earned some jingle if they help us out. I guess we’ve tried to keep a sense of responsibility in the mix.
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kiDs vT Money issue sponsored by: nationallifeGroup.com
April 2012
kiDsvT.coM
BurlingTon, owner of BranDThroPology
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Child: son, Declan, 19 months
Mark larson
BurlingTon, coMMissioner of The DeParTMenT of verMonT healTh access
Child: daughter, Mariah, 8
My first job was working at the Burger King in the town where I grew up. I worked there for a little over a year. I think I walked away feeling like I had accomplished something. I learned a lot about working, the importance of showing up for work on time, following through on things and being flexible. My second job was working for a landscaper. It was quite nice to be able to switch to something where I could work outside, and I made better money. It was the start of learning about what I looked for in a job, beyond a paycheck. I think one interesting dynamic is wondering how it would be different for a girl as opposed to a boy. I think there are different options available for work. For example, how many girls end up with their first job being babysitting? We don’t know what to expect from her first work. We already talk about what she wants to do when she grows up. We try to encourage her to think about things she would be interested in or things that she would do well. Which, so far, is being a firefighter, a teacher or a doctor. I could see her doing something like a camp counselor a lifeguard or something where there’s some aspect of helping or taking care of people. K — IntervIews compIled by Kate laddIson “Go Ask Dad” is a monthly feature in which we ask fathers to answer a question. Got a question, or a pop you’d like to hear from? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
EAT. LEARN. PLAY.
Get Financially Enlightened! Christine D. Moriarty of MONEYPEACE
Q the art OF…
MATTHEW THORsEN
Music Composition
B Y A N A R uE si N k
Enlightened finance for couples
What yOu’ll need
A four session tele-‐workshop to improve your financial relationship
a Creative spirit: Although it helps if students know how to play an instrument or sing, all they really need is interest. Computer: Most kids have access at home or at school.
Ben hunt
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to learn. Computers level the playing field so all kinds of kids can participate, according to Music-COMP director Sandi MacLeod. She founded the nonprofit back in 1995. Today, more than 50 Vermont schools — and more than a dozen homeschooled or independent-study students — participate in the program. “Students have incredible sound libraries. They’ve been hearing sounds since the womb. Composition helps to organize those sounds,” says MacLeod. She sees many social and academic benefits to music composition: Students develop their communication skills, persistence and concentration. And composing enhances their ability to listen and analyze. “Anybody can compose if you stick with it and listen to what the mentors tell you,” Ben claims modestly. “It’s fun to create something. And I like getting it performed live.” Nothing dead about it. K
Berlin 229-2869
APRiL 2012
“It’s fun to create something. And I like getting it performed live.”
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Many aspiring young Vermont On stage at COlChester’s composers like Ben get guidance elley-lOng MusiC Center, four and support from Music-COMP, a professional musicians with shiny group formerly called the Vermont brass instruments face eighth grader MIDI Project, which provides online Ben Hunt and his Edmunds Middle mentoring to students in school music School music teacher, Betsy Nolan. programs. Using software such as Ben is about to hear his composition Sibelius or Noteflight, kids as young “Fanfare of the Zombies” performed as 9 or 10 can get those snippets of for the first time. The tuba starts, soft and low, then the song out of their heads and onto the computer screen. Students work with music grows in waves as two trumpets Music-Comp mentors for six to eight join in. There’s a mournful trombone weeks, composing and revising. From solo before the opening theme returns, their work, Musicthis time stated thunComp selects about derously by all four two dozen pieces instruments. You to be performed by can hear, and almost professional players see, the undead in concerts held marching through twice a year. the hall, trailing their Ben caught the rotten limbs. It’s a composition bug modern-day “Danse Ben hunt several years ago. Macabre.” He has now written When the music about 10 pieces, often inspired by stops, there’s a pause. “Does it sound noodling on his bass clarinet. better than the Sibelius file?” asks “Fanfare of the Zombies” started trumpet player Chris Rivers. “Yeah,” with a simple idea to compose Ben replies with a satisfied grin. something in a minor key. “I’ll play They’re talking not about Jean something by accident and think, Hey, Sibelius, the late-Romantic, Finnish that sounds cool.” composer — but about a computer Music educators consider composoftware program that helps translate sition to be a key component of music musical ideas into the language of literacy, but it can be hard to teach and standard musical notation.
software: Younger kids can use composition tools that don’t require notation, such as Groovy Music ($69 and up; available at sibelius.com.) Creatingmusic.com is a free, creative environment where children can compose music and play interactive music games. kids in grade 4 and up may be ready to use notation software such as sibelius ($200 and up; available at sibelius.com) or (Noteflight, basic version is free at noteflight.com.) Learn more about Vermont’s online music composition mentoring program at music-comp.org. Hear student compositions performed at Music-COMP’s Opus concert, Wednesday, May 2, at the Ludlow Town Hall.
Next session starts May 1st
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The Art of...” spotlights creative skills that enrich kids’ lives. Got a class or teacher to recommend? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com. k8v-VtNanny0412.indd 1
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TAKE ON SUMMER free
HEALTHY KIDS DAY SATURDAY, APRIL 28 10AM-3PM
Summer is just around the corner. Are you ready for it? Kick start your summer at the 12th annual Healthy Kids Day, a free community event taking place at the Greater Burlington YMCA. Expect a day loaded with activities, entertainment and education for active young families. New “Champ on Church Fun Run” starts the event with a bang at 8:30 AM. For more information, visit gbymca.org or call 862-9622. See you there!
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KIDS VT
APRIL 2012
KIDSVT.COM
Highlights Fun Run with RunVermont Make Your Own Fruit Smoothie Mickey the Musical Minstrel Magic Show Carl’s Caricature Portraits Itty Bitty Play Area Giant Bounce Castle Open Swim Time Face Painting Make and Take Crafts Stuntology Event
Thanks to Our Sponsors NorthCountry Federal Credit Union MVP Health Care Fletcher Allen Health Care KidsVT Community Partner:
Community Booths NorthCountry Federal Credit Union Fletcher Free Library: Summer Reading Program KidsVT Wholesome Grains Boys and Girl Scouts/4H Club Y Early Education Program Y After School Program Sullivan Learning Vermont Children’s Hospital at FAHC Be Seat Safe Y Backyard Learn to Swim Program Community Sailing Center
Meet Y Camp Staff Camp Greylock Camp Abnaki Teen Camp Adventure, Art, Nature, Ballet Camps
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Rich Kid, Poor Kid
How do parents teach their kids about money, income and inequality? BY KEN PICARD
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KIDS VT MONEY BY: NationalLifeGroup.com APRILISSUE 2012 SPONSORED KIDSVT.COM
APRIL 2012
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arents assume that the hardest questions they will face from their children will be about life’s great mysteries. But, there are practical questions that they might find more difficult to answer, such as: Are we poor? Or, Are we in the one percent? In fact, several recent studies have come to the same conclusion: Most parents today say they would rather discuss drugs, religion, death — even sex — with their kids than broach the touchy topic of money. In these troubled financial times, discussions of wealth and economic inequality are sure to come up. Children are perceptive, and from an early age, they notice differences among their peers, including socio-economic ones. Answering questions about income may be even more awkward when families are struggling to make ends meet or are suddenly afflicted by money troubles brought on by divorce, layoff, eviction or natural disaster. Last year’s Tropical Storm Irene destabilized countless families and their finances. As Don Peck observed in his book, Pinched: How the Great Recession Has Narrowed Our Futures and What We Can Do About It, earlier generations of Americans tended to live in communities that were more economically diverse than they are today. While this characterization may apply less to rural Vermont than other areas, Peck warns that as we segregate ourselves by socioeconomic status, we begin to lose our ability to identify and empathize with others less fortunate than ourselves. In these times, how can parents impress upon their children the importance of financial planning and a healthy awareness of economic injustice?
For many children, the first lesson in microeconomics comes in the form of a piggy bank. John Pelletier, director of the Center for Financial Literacy at Champlain College in Burlington, says that a coin repository is a great way to start teaching children one of life’s most important financial lessons: the value of saving.
some are naturally inclined to squirrel away their funds, while others prefer to “live for the day” and spend as though there were no tomorrow. Differing money personalities can also teach children about wealth inequality. Children learn another valuable lesson in wealth and income when they start to earn their allowance — and Pelletier emphasizes the word “earn.” “I think an allowance is fine as long as there’s actual work attached to it,” he says. Children shouldn’t view an allowance as a right or entitlement. Instead, he suggests it should convey the message that if you don’t work, you don’t get paid. Finally, Pelletier believes it’s important to teach kids the value of setting money aside to “give back” to the community, be it a house of worship, community fundraiser, food shelf or other local charity. Pelletier, who lives in Stowe and previously worked in the
Sometimes, the question
“Are we poor?”
is driven by mere curiosity. Other times, it’s a red flag. “I believe that saving is like a muscle that a lot of us don’t want to exercise,” Pelletier says. And, like muscle memory, the earlier it begins, the more likely the behavior will become ingrained as a lifelong habit. When children begin at age 3, 4 or 5 to set aside money for something they want, he says, it teaches them how to develop “saving goals” for the future. This becomes particularly important when children are teenagers and peer pressure to conform and seek instant gratification is more intense. Pelletier, who’s the father of three boys, even set up a “Bank of Dad,” which pays his kids 5 percent interest, in order to teach them the concept of compound interest. Pelletier soon discovered that kids naturally develop their own “money personality.” That is,
RICH KID, POOR KID P. 23 »
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asset-management field in Boston, says it was very important to him and his wife that they instill in their kids a sense of compassion for those less affluent than they are. “One way to make them understand how lucky they are is to put them in circumstances helping people who aren’t so fortunate,” he says. “It’s very visceral when you see it up close and personal, and you can’t help but be grateful for what you have.” Better yet: go along, according to South Burlington psychotherapist Joyce Hagan. The way parents speak of and interact with poor people will make a much greater impression when children are trying to understand why some people are comfortable and others struggle. “Their action speaks louder than words,” Hagan says.
O
I think an allowance is fine
as long as there’s actual work attached to it.
when, in fact, the kids are totally oblivious to it. Hagan points out that even children who aren’t living in a shelter or trying to cope with financial hardship will occasionally express apprehension or concern about their family’s economic well-being. Sometimes, the question “Are we poor?” is driven by mere curiosity. Other times, it’s a red flag about deeper-seated anxieties about the future. Hagan recommends that parents try first to identify the source of the question by asking, “Why are you wondering?” Or, “What made you think about this issue?” Sometimes, a child’s question is sparked by an experience at school, such as learning that a friend’s parent lost a job, or seeing a classmate teased for being poor. In such cases, she recommends explaining to a child that you feel secure in your employment —
John Pelletier, Center for Financial Literacy at Champlain College
April 2012
assuming that’s true, of course — and are prepared to deal with problems should they arise. Regardless of the catalyst of such questions, Hagan recommends that parents offer a simple answer first and see if it suffices before launching into a more detailed explanation. She cites the old joke about the boy who asks his father, “Daddy, where did I come from?” Startled and unprepared, the father sweats out a long and tortuous explanation about the birds and the bees. Afterwards, the boy sits silently for a long time. Finally, the father asks his son, “So what made you ask that question?” “Well,” the boy replies, “my friend told me he came from Chicago.” K
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household. Obviously, if a family is experiencing money-related stress, she says, a child is more likely to become aware of it at an earlier age. Kids who are younger than 4 or 5 may pick up on stress in the family but not necessarily understand where it’s coming from, whereas older children are more apt to make the connection to its cause. Indeed, Hagan has worked with kids who have verbalized concerns about their family’s money troubles as early as age 7. Sometimes, she says, parents are unaware that their children are paying attention to the family’s financial matters. Other times, parents automatically assume that their kids are worried about money
kidsvt.com April 2012 Kids VT Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
lost their homes, she sees many parents who are under tremendous financial stress. And answering questions about income and wealth is especially challenging when their kids call the shelter home. For previous generations, Markley notes, a job meant financial selfsufficiency. But today, some homeless children see both parents work all day — only to return to a shelter. As a result, they may question the value of work and education. In fact, some of the hardest questions Markley hears, especially from young children, are, “Will it always be this way? Will we have a chance to be the family that gets to go to the movies or have vacations?’” How does Markley reassure kids who are living through economic distress? “We say, ‘Homelessness isn’t who you are. It’s a short, tough time, and there are a lot of people in the country right now who are struggling. But you’ll get through it. And, it’s not your fault,’” she says. “The worst thing for
kidsvt.com
n any given day, the Boys & Girls Club of Burlington serves about 250 kids from low-income families at its three Chittenden County locations. About half are children of color; one in five is a new arrival to the United States. About six years ago, the nonprofit launched a program to teach sixth graders about financial literacy and the importance of an education to get ahead in life and break the cycle of poverty. But after five years, executive director Mary Alice McKenzie and her staff made a startling discovery: Sixth grade is too late to start the process. If kids don’t acquire certain basic skills by the time they reach middle school, she says, they “check out and, in our experience, it’s almost impossible to get them back on an enthusiastic track” in school. Even those who managed to graduate “had a diploma, but they didn’t have the basic skills” to work a job or succeed in college. So the Boys & Girls Club started teaching basic financial literacy — including reading , writing, math and career aspiration — starting in kindergarten, as soon as they start coming to the Boys & Girls Club. “We have to start talking to our kids about their futures as early as we can,” McKenzie says. Rita Markley, executive director of the Committee on Temporary Shelter in Burlington, sees many of the same kids. In her work with individuals and families who have
a child is for them to internalize the blame.” Hagan agrees, based on her experience with patients, mostly parents and children, from a wide range of incomes and backgrounds. Much of her work involves treating people who suffer from anxiety, depression and other stress-related disorders, all of which, she notes, are “fairly epidemic” right now. “The adults are more stressed, so the kids are more stressed,” she says. “And certainly, economics are a huge part of it for a lot of people.” As Hagan explains, the age at which children first become conscious of money and family finances can vary greatly from family to family, even from child to child within the same
Biz
PHOTOS BY MATTHEW THORSEN
Kids Some young Vermont entrepreneurs are earning — and learning — their money.
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KIDS VT MONEY APRILISSUE 2012 SPONSORED KIDSVT.COM BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
APRIL 2012
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BY KATE LADDISON AND CATHY RESMER
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eading, writing, arithmetic … and money management? Financial-literacy programs are popping up all over, to school kids on saving, spending and investing wisely. But some eager young entrepreneurs don’t need professional help — they’re figuring out money matters on their own. We found several local “biz kids” — between 8 and 18 years old — who are turning their hobbies and skills into fledgling business ventures. Some of them spend what they earn; others give most of their profits to charity. We asked them about their moneymaking endeavors; to explain what they do and why, and what they’ve learned along the way. We’ve distilled their answers into mini-profiles that reveal some of the practical lessons they’ve learned on the job. Parental influence varies. Charles Hulse, whose son Eli creates and sells his own iPhone apps, admits that he’s mostly sitting back and watching his son make his own way. “I don’t really have a lot of business experience,” he says. “I’m learning from him.”
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area. The Shelburne Supermarket is a hot spot, says Alex.
• The soft sell works. Alex says being aggressive is not her style. She prefers to wait until people seem interested, then explain her products.
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• Giveaways = free advertising. The girls give some of their hair ties away, hoping to spur sales. Alex notes that one of her friends “helps advertise because she wears them a lot.”
KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
• Communicating with customers is key. “It is scary to talk to somebody,” says Alex, “but you kind of have to do it.”
APRIL 2012
Alex Morris
KIDSVT.COM
lec Distler loves pretzels. He grew up eating bite-sized bits of broken-up sourdough pretzels baked with spices, as per his grandmother’s recipe. The secret ingredient? Cayenne pepper. In his last year at Williston Central School, Alec had to complete the school’s traditional eighth- grade challenge — a kind of capstone project. He chose to pursue entrepreneurship and started his own business, baking and packaging his grandma’s spicy pretzels. Distler says he brought an initial 50 bags of Alec’s Spicy Pretzels to CVU’s cafeteria thinking, I wonder how long it’s going to take to sell them. The next day, Alec got a call — the school wanted another 100 bags. By that Christmas, in 2008, he was selling about 900 bags per week. Three and a half years later, Alec’s pretzels are available in local stores, including Sam Mazza’s, Burlington Bay Market & Café and Shelburne Supermarket. They are, as the packages claim, “addicting.” A few things have changed as the company has grown. There are now five flavors — ranch, maple, spicy, x-tra spicy and fiery. And the baking and bagging processes have been outsourced. The Distlers also recently ALEC’S INSIGHTS: Alec Distler changed the • If your idea takes off, go company name AGE 16 with it. “I didn’t really from Alec’s Spicy HOMETOWN expect this to become Pretzels after Williston the long-term thing coming across a that it has become,” says SCHOOL similar-sounding Alec, who never guessed Champlain Valley Union California comHigh School that his school project pany. The new would turn into the BUSINESS VENTURE name, Distler’s: family business. But the Distler’s: Pretzels With Pretzels With Distlers have embraced a Kick — he makes spicy a Kick, reflects pretzel snacks. the opportunity, and it’s the fact that the paying off. business isn’t just • The business owns the Alec’s enterprise — his mother and sisters business owner. Increased help out a lot, too. demand for your product No one’s getting rich — yet. “People think, is great, but if you’re the because I have a business, I have lots of owner, you have to do money,” Alec says. Truth be told, while he more work to meet the draws an hourly paycheck, most of the profits demand. Sometimes that are reinvested in the company, and 10 percent means spending all of goes to charity. your free time breaking There are some sweet perks, though. Alec apart sourdough pretzels. gets to attend food trade shows, where he meets people from around the world. And • It can’t just be about the Alec’s mom, Lynn Distler, says the family has money. “It takes a couple enjoyed the together-time the pretzel-making of years to start making process required — often 10 to 15 hours a money,” Alec advises. “You’ve got to do someweek in a commercial kitchen, breaking thing that you like to do.” pretzels and dancing to the radio.
hen they were in kindergarten, Alex and Isabelle — and their respective moms — came up with a craft project to make a little extra cash. They started making hair ties, bows and bands for family and friends. Positive reactions led to table sales at craft fairs and relationships with local stores. Their product proved so popular that the moms, Deborah Morris and Alexis Mittelstadt, made a grown-up business out of it. Named Alex & Isabelle after their daughters, the mom-led company makes hair ties that are more complex than the ones they created with their girls. Customers buy them on the web and at stores such Isabean, Ecco Alex Morris and Mirror Mirror. and Isabelle Meanwhile, the girls have been doing their own thing, and selling the Mittelstadt products at local events. Dubbed Hold AGES Both are 10 Your Horses, their company uses the HOMETOWNS tagline “ponytails with a purpose” — a Shelburne and Charlotte, reminder that the two girls give a large respectively portion of their profits to charity. SCHOOLS The moms felt strongly about the Shelburne Community School donation requirement, which at first and Charlotte Central School was hard for Alex and Isabelle to BUSINESS VENTURE accept. But the girls have gotten into Hold Your Horses — they make it, says Alexis Mittelstadt. For examheadbands and hair ties. ple, they donated to Spring Hill Horse Rescue in Clarendon after getting a letter about an influx of new horses there with special needs. And when the Connor B. Turnbaugh Foundation put out a call to help families of children with cancer, the girls dyed a batch of hair ties and set up a sale. They don’t give away all of their profits, though. Isabelle is a saver and has been socking most of her earnings away. Alex is getting better about putting money away, too. They’ve both used Hold Your Horses as an opportunity to polish their math skills. Deborah Morris says the girls have grown independent enough that she can sit back and read a book during a sale. ALEX’S INSIGHTS: How long will they continue in business? • Don’t forget the three Alex says she hopes to have a day job someLs: location, location, day. “When I’m older, I want to work with location. It’s best to set horses,” she says. “For now, this is a great job.” up shop in a high-traffic
Biz Kids
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NORA’S INSIGHTS: ome kids need a little encouragement to sell cookies or popcorn during school fundraisers. Not Nora Bartlett. The outgoing 8-year-old is unafraid • Don’t be shy. “I’m not exactly shy, to knock on doors and has already mastered “the ask.” but I can be sometimes,” Nora Nora makes bookmarks and finger-knitted scarves that she sells to nearby says. “I’ve learned not to be.” neighbors. She also does household chores, such • Expect that your customas folding laundry for pay, and has organized ers will want to buy. Nora Nora Bartlett classmates into fundraising collaboratives. Last believes in her causes and year she brought together a group of schoolmates AGE 8 assumes that people she for monthly meetings and tasked them with HOMETOWN approaches will see the fundraising duties that she thought would appeal Burlington value in her products to them — artfully decorating mailing envelopes, SCHOOL and her goal. She for instance. Champlain simply expects that Nora gives most of her own hard-earned money Elementary School they’ll want to buy. away, mainly to environmental organizations such “It works,” quips BUSINESS VENTURE as the World Wildlife Fund. “I feel like there are She sells handmade items. Kitty. people that need it more than I do,” she says. “To tell you the truth, I never really buy anything.” She • Cash is king. Nora prefers adds, “I know I’m going to be a saver. I can buy a house with it when I grow up.” to donate cash, rather Her mom, Kitty Bartlett, is the annual giving coordinator for the Lund Family than products, to her Center. Kitty admits that dinner table talk might have influenced Nora’s philancharities of choice. “I thropy. But Kitty, a self-described spendthrift, can’t take credit for Nora’s miserly think that with some money, you can pretty tendencies. Her mom recalls a time when Nora spent $5 on a wind-up butterfly much do what you — only to decide she wanted to return it and get that exact $5 bill back into her need,” she says. “If you pocket. give people canned food… “I love her buyer’s remorse,” Kitty says.
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KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
APRIL 2012
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what can they do?”
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hen Greg Potter was in third grade, he wanted to lend his books to his friends and keep track of who borrowed them. So he wrote a software program that managed his lending library. Since then, he’s taken on projects such as creating school websites, fixing computers, and selling visual effects templates for animated graphics. He currently sells his code segments and web video work to clients through sites such as AudioJungle and VideoHive. A year ago, Greg’s freelance portfolio helped him land a part-time job at Dealer. com, developing the web applications used by car dealers to manage their businesses. Next fall, he heads to Lehigh University to study computer science. Greg says the thing he likes most about his job at Dealer.com is talking to other developers; it’s the first time he’s worked with people who understand and share his passion. He also loves to see his programming put to use at dealerships across the country. In fact, he enjoys it so much that he works at Dealer after school and on breaks during what he calls his “Dealer-cations.” He comes by his interest in technology genetically; his dad, David Potter, is the cofounder and former co-owner of South Burlington-based software company Greg Potter Data Innovations. David remembers how his AGE 18 own father pushed him toward semi-conductor engineering when he wasn’t sure what HOMETOWN he wanted to do. He doesn’t want to pressure Richmond Greg in the same way. That’s why he supports SCHOOL all of Greg’s computer projects, no matter Mount Mansfield Union what they are. He’s glad his son is experimentHigh School ing before he goes off to school. BUSINESS VENTURE “The single thing I really try to hammer He develops animated graphics and web videos home with all the kids,” says David, “is to be as a freelancer and is a passionate and happy about what you do. If part-time web developer you really love your work, whatever it is, you at Dealer.com. will find the success you need.”
GREG’S INSIGHTS: • Find problems and solve them. Greg says the problem-solving skills he used to write his lending library program are the ones he’s still using today. Tackling that project gave him a chance to experiment and figure out what worked and what didn’t. It was great training for what he’s doing now. • Hard work can be fun. “Making money doing what I love is awesome,” he says. • Reinvest your profits. Greg spends the money he makes on things that will help make him more money, i.e. books, computer components and software. • Even if you have a job, you should still consider college. “I want to study artificial intelligence and computing,” he explains. “I don’t know enough about that topic; it’s beyond what I’m doing now.”
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ant to start teaching your kids about money? Many public and private organizations offer free or low-cost classes and workshops. Here’s a short list to help you get started.
CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE’S CENTER FOR FINANCIAL LITERACY
VERMONT JUMP$TART COALITION
CVOEO GROWING MONEY FINANCIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
Info, 877-242-8550, jumpstart.org/statesvermont.html The Jump$tart Coalition is a national nonprofit devoted to improving kids’ personal financial literacy through advocacy, research and providing educational resources. The Vermont group maintains a local speakers bureau and holds an annual Common Sense Conference for educators. The 2012 conference took place in March.
Info, 828-3706, vermonttreasurer.gov/ financial-literacy
Reading is an Investment: This program encourages students to read about financial literacy. The more titles they log, the more likely they are to win a $250 college savings account. Vermont Reserve Cup: This annual gameshow-style tournament encourages high school students to think about economics. This year’s event is May 4; teams must sign up by April 2.
Info, 860-1417, cvoeo.org/htm/ MicroBusiness/Microbusiness.html, The Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity’s Financial Futures Program provides free education and training for low- to moderate-income Vermonters who need help organizing their finances or want to start a business. Free classes include: Spend Smart: This three-session class is for people in households with limited income. Keys to Credit: This two-session class goes into detail about the important and often confusing world of credit. Creating a Financial Future: This twosession class covers IRA account basics, how to start building household savings, how to create an emergency fund, how to enhance your savings, and much more.
VERMONT HIGHER EDUCATION INVESTMENT PLAN Info, 1-800-637-5860, vheip.org Administered by the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, this site includes information about 529 college savings plans, a calculator to figure out how much you’ll need, webcasts, hotlines and other resources targeting people saving for college.
VERMONT BAR ASSOCIATION Info, 223-2020, vtbar.org The association offers free legal and educational resources, including a publication that describes how to protect financial resources as you grow older: Taking Charge: Plan Now for Future Financial Control.
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Find more resources at kidsvt.com
KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
How to Raise a Money Smart Child — A Parent’s Guide: This booklet, created in partnership with the Vermont Jump$tart Coalition and People’s United Bank, is distributed by 57 schools throughout Vermont. There’s also a related series of free parent workshops, including one on April 3 in Barre. See the calendar spotlight on page 38.
This new partnership between Champlain College, National Life Group and several financial institutions advocates for more financial education opportunities at the local, state and national levels. It offers programs for Vermont students and adults, including a public policy summit, a summer teachers institute, and a credit score workshop for students.
APRIL 2012
The state treasurer’s office is a clearinghouse of financial literacy information. In addition to an annual poster contest for kids, which concluded in March, the office partners with the VT Jump$tart Coalition to conduct personal finance workshops for teachers. Here are three of the VST’s programs:
Info, 860-2700, CFL@champlain.edu, champlain.edu/center-for-financialliteracy-x13547.html
KIDSVT.COM
THE VERMONT STATE TREASURER
PHOTOS BY MATTHEW THORSEN
li Hulse wasn’t always a techie kid. His parents, who are both doctors, homeschooled him until eighth grade. They shielded him from media and technology; the family didn’t get a television set until Eli was 10. When he was 11, he started playing chess on his family’s desktop PC and wondered how the computer ELI’S INSIGHTS: came up with the moves it used • Act the part. Eli’s email signature against him. “I thought that was, identifies him as the CEO of Elis like, really cool,” he says. To satisfy Studios. his curiosity, he taught himself the Visual Basic language and wrote • Keep your personal and business some primitive programs. He finances separate. Eli notes that if wanted his own computer, so that you mix profits with allowance or summer, he earned money to buy birthday money, you’ll never know one by making bagels and selling how much you’re making. them at the South Hero farmers market. • Not moving enough units? Try a loss When leader. In February, Eli released a Eli discovEli Hulse free version of his Color Splasher ered the app, to stimulate downloads. It’s AGE 14 Apple App working — more than 400 people HOMETOWN Store, he have downloaded it since the beginSouth Hero realized ning of February. He says he hopes he could SCHOOL it’ll draw attention to his other ofwrite Vermont Commons ferings: “They’ll say, ‘Oh look, there’s School programs this other really cool app called iTap, for mobile BUSINESS VENTURE and I could download that, too.’” Eli devices, Elis Studios — he also makes money off of advertising and get creates iPhone apps. that’s embedded in the free version. people to buy those • Know your audience. Eli’s apps instead. He bought a book, Starting appeal to people like him — teenagan iPhone Application Business for ers searching for stuff to do. His Dummies, and got his parents to output consists of a doodling app, help him register Elis Studios with three games and Safety Light, which the App Store for $99. He launched turns the iPhone into a beacon that his first app, a drawing application flashes white and red; it’s designed called Color Splasher, in 2010. He’s to make bikers and skateboarders added four more since then. visible to cars in the dark. His next Eli sells all of his apps for 99 project? An app that can organize cents each. He estimates he’s made and save his friends’ one-liners in a about $250 so far — enough to pay database. “I don’t know if it’ll work or the yearly fee to keep his products not,” he admits, “but that would be in the App Store. In the short term, really fun.” he explains, he just wants to cover his costs; he sees his apps as an investment in his future. “I really hope it will help me when I’m trying to go to college,” he says. His mom, Molly Rideout, speculates that being homeschooled gave Eli the flexibility to pursue his interests and brought him into contact with supportive adults who encouraged him. “He tends to get really intensely involved in certain things,” she observes. “It’s pretty impressive.”
SUMMER ART CAMPS START JUNE 18 FOR AGES 3-18
CAMP GUIDE
This Summer Make Family Memories that Last a Lifetime
2012
To learn about our camps, the schedule or to sign up please visit:
B U R l i N G T O N C i T yA R T S . O R G or call 865.7166
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RunVermont will host the 12th Annual MVP Health Care kid’s running festival during marathon weekend. All participants must be 4 to 14 years old. Come join us for bib decorating and excitement. All
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ADULTS TRY THEIR BEST to create the ideal summer vacation — the perfect equilibrium between activity and relaxation — only to find it can often wind up being more stressful than just staying home. As kids, we had it down. What happened when we grew up? Enter the family camp. Modeled after the traditional sleepaway experience, the multigenerational version is a vacation with less organizational stress — and best of all, you get to share it with your kids. Meals appear at regular intervals and cheery camp counselors whisk kids off to age-appropriate activities, leaving parents free to launch a canoe for old time’s sake, or simply hobnob on a shady front porch overlooking the lake. “Family camp can be a real relief
for the cooks or the chauffeurs in the family,� says Carole Blane, program director at Camp Common Ground in Starksboro. “It’s also great fun for adults wishing to re-create the magic of going to camp. You get to run around barefoot, play soccer or just spend time enjoying your surroundings while your kids are being taken care of.� The laid-back, semi-structured approach appeals to harried parents seeking a real vacation, but it’s the nostalgia that brings them back. Ernie Ruben, a Princeton, N.J.-based professional photographer, attended Ohana Family Camp in Fairlee like her mother before her, and has since returned with her husband, their four children, their children’s spouses and eight grandchildren.
AIKIDO SUMMER CAMP CoUrtEsy ohAnA fAMily CAMp
Martial Arts, Crafts and Culture of Japan Session 1 June 18-22 Session 2 June 25-29 Session 3 July 9-13
find more info: www.samuraiyouth.blogspot.com
Aikido of Champlain Valley 257 Pine Street | Burlington, VT | 802-951-8900 k6h-AikidoofChamplainValley0412.indd 1
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Night Eagle
Wilderness Adventures A unique summer camp for boys, ages 10-14, in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains tipi living ▲ nature crafts canoeing ▲ backpacking ▲ wilderness skills ▲ tracking atlatls ▲ ’hawk throwing swimming ▲ archery ▲ hiking ▲ cooperative work & play ▲ and much more! ▲ ▲
Call for a full brochure:
((802) 802) 773-7866 446-6100
www.nighteaglewilderness.com k6h-NightEagle0112.indd 1
in?
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KidsVT.com April 2012 Kids VT Kids VT money issue sponsorED by: NationalLifeGroup.com
Do you
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April 2012
You get to run around barefoot, play soccer or just spend time enjoying your surroundings while your kids are being taken care of.
KidsVT.com
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and her family have attended Camp “We come back because it’s Common Ground for the past four a very special world that is fast summers, which she says is helping disappearing,” she says. “It’s hard for her 9-year-old daughter acclimate to me to believe that everyone doesn’t the idea of going away feel the need to be to camp on her own. connected to the “I want my natural world in the kids to have the way you are while at experience of finding camp.” their own turf and Ruben has “a discovering who they grown daughter who are independent of never takes her eyes their parents, but my off her computer and daughter isn’t quite another daughter who ready to attend the is so busy she doesn’t camp I went to as a know what to do with kid,” she says. “Family herself,” she says. At camp helps ease the Ohana Family Camp, transition.” families swim, fish, There are two canoe, kayak, sail, main models hike and sit around to choose from bonfires telling when evaluating stories and roasting a summer-camp s’mores. Families carole Blane, getaway — designated reconvene for meals camp common Ground family camps like and programs during Camp Common the afternoons and Ground and Ohana Family Camp, evenings. and kids overnight camps that run It’s a different pace of life — one a special family session. The YMCA that parents don’t often get to Camp Abnaki in North Hero offers experience alongside their children. For kids, family camp can be a good family camp over Memorial Day and introduction to the world of overnight Labor Day weekends, while Camp camp — without the homesickness. Brooklyn-dweller Laura Tichler All toGEthEr now p. 30 »
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Talent Development Institute
SPRUCEWOOD FARM SUMMER RIDING CAMP
For advanced students entering grades 4-9 who want to have fun while learning!
*PRIVATE LESSONS AVAILABLE ALL YEAR LONG*
cAmp
• 6 One week sessions beginning June 18th • Private, indoor facility, limited number of campers • Day camp 9am-3pm, early drop off, late pick-up available • Beginner - intermediate riding instruction, horsemanship • And end the day with a swim in the pool!
Summer 2012
All Together Now
coNTiNued from p. 29
Johnson State College June 24-30, 2012 “TDI has provided an environment where being intelligent is encouraged….TDI has given me confidence to be myself outside the camp and introduced me to friends I look forward to seeing each year.” — Camper
For more info and electronic version of brochure, please go to vermontgifted.org and tdivermont.com. Or contact Lucy Bogue at lucybogue@yahoo.com or 658-9941.
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Greater Burlington YMCA
3/6/12 k16t-sprucewoodfarms0312.indd 10:35 AM CAMP ABNAKI
Resident and Day Camps
Where Your Son Belongs
For Boys Ages 7-16 On Lake Champlain 1& 2 Week Sessions
CampAbnaki.org
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Sessions filling up fast! Visit our website to download camp form or call to reserve. 802-316-3873 or 802-598-1112 193 Poor Farm Road Colchester, VT 05446 www.Sprucewoodfarm.com
1
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Pok-O-MacCready in the Adirondacks has a late-August session for families after younger campers have departed. Oneor two-session family camps aren’t inferior to their year-round 1:22 PM counterparts — and their rates are usually far cheaper — but families should ask about the daily schedule and activities, as some are better equipped to accommodate multigenerational campers. “It’s important to choose a camp that offers a balance between active and free time, and clearly defines who the programming is for,”
1/19/12 11:17 AM
I want my kids to have the experience of finding their own turf and discovering who they are independent of their parents, but my daughter isn’t quite ready to attend the camp I went to as a kid. Laura TichLer
says Lucy Jackson Norvell, New England director of public information at the American Camp Association. “Sometimes that means programming for ‘a tall and a small,’ and sometimes it’s separate activities for kids and adults. The ability to choose is important, too — teens will participate if they decide to go on an adventure, but they don’t want to have that decision made for them by an adult.” Programs at Camp Common Ground run the gamut, from making fairy houses to launching homemade boats,
courTesy cAmp commoN GrouNd
KidsVT.com
All ToGeTher Now p. 32 »
Animal Adventures ages 7-9:
Half-day camp with themes like Dog Day, Feline Friends, Careers, Shelter Day, and Animal Safety. (choose between AM or PM session)
April 2012
Summer Safari ages 10-12:
A full-day camp that includes the above themes and incorporates a fascinating video project focused on animals.
Summer Sessions: July 9-13 | July 16-20 | July 23-27 | July 30-Aug 3 (Choose Between AM or PM) AM: 9am-12pm | PM: 1pm-4pm
802.862.0135 x11 www.chittendenhumane. k8h-HumanSociety0212.indd 1
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Kids VT money Aprilissue 2012 spoNsored KidsVT.comby: NationalLifeGroup.com
August 6-10 | August 13-17 Full Day
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ADVENTURE DAY CAMP University of Vermont
adventure day camp Camp Dates: June 18 - August 3
www.uvm.edu/recreation/adc
Daily Activities: swimming sports & games arts & crafts water games and more!
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For more info contact Rachel Valyou 802.656.3070 / rachel.valyou@uvm.edu
GUTTERSON ARENA UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT
WA NT Y OU R C HILD T O TH RIV E?
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Kevin Sneddon’s Hockey School
2/22/12 10:48 AM
Professional Coaching... Affordable Price!
OBSERVATION MORNINGS Every Wednesday in April 9-11am
802-324-6876
* No Observation Morning on Wednesday 4/25
SUMMER CAMPS 1-week sessions for nine weeks starting June 25 APRIL VACATION CAMPS Scholarship available. Subsidy accepted. The Schoolhouse offers family centered preschool, elementary school (K-6), afterschool and camp programs.
8 Catkin Dr., S. Burlington (just off Dorset St. at Dorset Farms), 355-7023
3/23/12 10:39 AM
Ages 5-8, 9-12
Online registration is open!
Field Trips Include: Oakledge Park Shelburne Farms Ben & Jerry’s Factory Carnival Day
July 23-27, 2012
Age Groups: Rangers: 5-6 Trailblazers: 7-8 Vikings: 9-11
register for a week session or the entire summer!
ksneddon_21@hotmail.com | www.kshockeyschool.com k12h-KevinsSneddonsHockey0311.indd 1
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Like us on Facebook.
(We like you, too!) » facebook.com/kidsvt k8h-schoolhouselearning0412.indd 1
3/12/12 1:54 PM
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3/25/11 8:04 AM
Mini-Summer Intensive June 11-15 & June 18-22 (ages 12-18)
Nutcracker Camp June 18-June 22 (ages 5-6)
Coppelia Camp July 30-Aug 3 (ages 6-7) Arabian Nights Camp July 30-Aug 3 (ages 6-7) We also offer a variety of weekly classes at many levels, youth-adult.
Simply the Best!
Call or visit our website for details on all classes and camps!
Vermont Ballet Theater School
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21 Carmichael St., Essex • 878-2941 4066 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne • 879-7001 www.vbts.org
Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
Beginning Ballet Camp July 9-13 (ages 7-9)
April 2012
Fairy Tale Ballet Camp June 25-June 29 (ages 3-4 and 5-6)
kidsvt.com
Cinderella Camp June 18-June 22 (ages 4-5)
caMp got summer camps?
Summer Dance Camps
Summer Dance Classes
Camps include ballet, modern, hip hop and gymnastics training as well as creative outlets in visual arts and improvisation.
Creative Dance, Ballet, Modern, Core & Deep Stretch, Floor Barre, Yoga for Dancesrs, Hip Hop
Carnival of the Animals! June 25th-29th » ages 4-6
June 11th-July 26th » ages 3-adult
Wild Things! July 9th-13th » ages 6-10
www.movinglightdance.com
VERMONT GAME ACADEMY
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July 9-21
Introducing students to all aspects of game development including: Game Art & Animation, Programming, Sound, Testing and Production. Instructed by professionals in the industry! Located at UVM in Burlington.
VERMONTGAMEACADEMY.COM
The Perfect Blend of Adventure & Discovery
VINS Nature Camp Offers Outdoor Exploration, Swimming, Theatre, Art and More! NEW Camp Programs Pre-K to 8th Grade! The Art of Flight, Wild Stage, Team Earth, Advanced Radical Raptors, Junior Naturalist, & Outdoor EdVentures Scholarships and Discounts Available Call us at 802.359.5000
www.vinsweb.org/nature-camp Explore • Swim • Canoe • Hike • Garden • Create
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april 2012
KidsVT.com
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• Overnight and day camp for girls ages 6-17 on the beautiful shores of Lake Champlain • Day Camp transportation now available
YWCA Camp Hochelaga camphochelaga@ywcavermont.org www.ywca.org/vermont/camp So. Hero, VT • 802-862-7520 k4t-HochelagaForGirlsYWCA0211.indd 1
all Together Now
2012 VINS Nature Camp
COME GET YOUR GAME ON!
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Archery g Swimmin Drama Nature Sailing fts Arts & Cra Kayaking Tennis
coNTiNued froM p. 30
taking cello lessons, glassblowing, songwriting and building terraria. Professional artists, musicians and craftspeople teach many of the classes, netting parents who have an interest in woodworking or African dance. Smart camp directors know that a successful experience caters equally to kids and their parents or grandparents alike, so staff make a special effort to keep everyone happy. 11:24 AM At Ohana Family Camp, that means meals cooked by chefs who attended culinary school; at Camp Common Ground, you can count on local, fresh ingredients. Accommodations vary from LEED-certified eco-lodges to rustic tent platforms. Family camp offers a chance for families to grow closer through adventures and new experiences, but regulars know it’s as much about socializing as it is about honing your archery skills. “Camps are intentional communities that meet at the same time every year, so families frequently coordinate sessions,” says Norvell. “And when grandparents and parents attended camp while growing up, that friendship can lead to a long line of families growing up together.” Whether summer getaways appeal for downtime, family time or the luxury of not having to plan meals and carpool schedules, Tichler says they have a way of getting under your skin. “You can relax in the fact that your kids are having fun and being taken care of by everyone there,” she says. “When I tell people about Camp Common Ground, they always think it’s a lot more kumbaya-ish than it
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actually is. Sure, there is an aspect of community building, but it’s done in a way that would affect even the biggest cynic.” K
Family camps camp pok-o-maccready, Willsboro, N.y. august 15 through 19 or august 17 through 19. $195-$ 650. info, 800-982-3538, pokomac.com.
camp abnaki, North Hero. may 25 through 28 and august 31 through september 3. $150-$495. Kids 4 and under are free. info, 862-8993, ext. 131, campabnaki.org. mother/child weekend, september 14 through 16. $60-$195. Father/son weekend, october 5 through 7. $60-$195. camp common Ground, starksboro. one-week sessions, July 21 through august 17. $50-$975; rates vary depending on accommodations. info, 800-430-2667, cgcvt.org. ohana Family camp, Fairlee. oneweek sessions, June 30 through august 18. $280-$5520; rates vary depending on accommodations. info, 333-3460, ohanacamp.org.
courTesy caMp coMMoN GrouNd
visit us on the web: enjoyburlington.com
Love to Dance! July 16th-20th &/or July 23rd-27th » ages 9-12
Saint Francis Xavier School Quality Catholic education since 1862
Serving Pre-K through 8th grade For more information, please contact us at:
Saint Francis Xavier School
5 St. Peter Street Winooski, Vermont 05404 (802) 655-2600 www.sfxwinooski.org k8h-GMAudubon0212.indd 1
1/24/12 7:39 AM
Creative Camps for Ages 1-18 plus adult and teen classes
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SUMMER CAMPS NOW ENROLLING
at the Flynn Center l summer 2012
Camps begin in June, July, & August!
NAEYC Accredited Preschools Burlington, Shelburne & Williston
“Honoring the Spirit of Each Child” 802-985-2153 · www.heartworksvt.com ·
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Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
802-652-4548 or visit www.flynnarts.org.
Heartworks Summer Preschool
April 2012
Call
Kindergarten—Age 11 Shelburne Farms & Shelburne Commons
kidsvt.com
The Renaissance School Summer Enrichment Academy
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CAMP GUIDE 2012
Summer Camp • Afterschool • April Vacation Camp
EXPLORE
Bellwether!
Now enrolling for 2012-2013 Come for a tour • Give us a call Check out our NEW website
Summer Camps
PRESCHOOL • KINDERGARTEN ELEMENTARY • AFTER SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS
for children ages 4-13 June 18-Aug 3 1 2/22/12 AM 1186 S. Brownell Rd. • Williston • (802) 11:01 863-4839 • BellwetherSchool.org
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newvillagefarm.com
Shelburne, VT
CAMP EDGE k8h-NewVillage0212.indd 1
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Independent • Healthy • Promoting Balanced Lives Summer Camp 2012
CAMP EDGE
One Week Day Camps for Grades K through 8* 6/25-6/29: Explore the Shore. Grades 6 - 8 7/9-7/13: Science & Stories Half-Day Camp. K 7/9-7/13: Live on TV! Grades 3 - 5 7/16-7/20: ECHO Adventurers. Grade 1 7/23-7/27: Animal Ambassador. Grades 2 - 3 7/30-8/3: ECHO Adventurers. Grade 1 8/6-8/10: Aquatic Discovery. Grades 4 - 5
Activities offered by
*Most camps are 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. with after care available until 5 p.m. Grade levels are as of fall 2012.
CAMP EDGE:
Visit echovermont.org/camps or call 877-324-6386, ext. 127 for details. Limited enrollment, register early. Get Closer to the Lake and behind the scenes at ECHO’s Summer Science Camps starting June 25. Camp Director Nina Ridhibhinyo
BURLINGTON, VERMONT
ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center
ECHOVERMONT.ORG
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for is a place of innovation, fun and fitness offer school age children ages 6-12. We also is run in a Camp Program for 5 year olds, which , we offer conjunction with Camp Edge. Additionally for our older more diverse and detailed activities program offers group of 9-12 year-old Campers. Our ties including activi or outdo and r indoo of y a variet more! Our sports, craft projects, field trips and g and campers have an active summer playin learning with their friends!
• Arts & Crafts ities • Athletic Activ • Gym Games • Music • Field Trips lderness • Nature and Wi Exploration door & outdoor) • Swimming (in Games • Recreational • Storytelling ction • Tennis Instru ll • Climbing Wa t (including but no • Group Sports ll, soccer, floor limited to: baseba l, kickball) hockey, basketbal
877.324.6386
Session I Session II Session III
6/18-6/22 6/25-6/29 7/2-7/6
Cruise Ship Treasure Island Myth Busters *closed 7/4
Session IV Session V Session VI Session VII Session VIII Session IX Session X
7/9-7/13 7/16-7/20 7/23-7/27 7/30-8/3 8/6-8/10 8/13-8/17 8/20-8/24
Talent Week Party in the USA Olympics Game Shows Survivor Time Traveler Wacky Week *Williston & Essex only
Essex (802) 879-7734 x 128 • Williston (802) 864-5351 • S. Burlington (802) 658-0080 or (802) 658-0002
@ECHOvt
EDGEVT.COM
For more specific questions, please contact us at: Essex: sarahc@edgevt.com • South Burlington: Heatherh@edgevt.com • Williston: KindraJ@edgevt.com
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KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
Y
register online at
ESSEX • SOUTH BURLINGTON • WILLISTON
KIDSVT.COM APRIL 2012
M
newvillagefarm.com
New Village Farm
ScienceCamps_KIDSVT_4.75x5.56.pdf
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Register online now at
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Say you saw it in
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KIDSVT.COM APRIL 2012
KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
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APRIL
Sponsored by:
CALENDAR CALENDAR SPOTLIGHTS AND LISTINGS BY BECKY THARP
Like Fletcher Allen Health Care on Facebook and get weekly updates from Dr. First!
Awwww-some Event Cuteness counts at the Billlings Farm & Museum’s BABY ANIMAL DAY. Kids — of the human variety — cosy up with newborn calves, lambs, chicks, ducklings and goslings while learning about their care, diet and growth from experienced farming interpreters. Horse-drawn wagons provide the big picture, ferrying visitors around the 250-acre working dairy farm to see the cows, horses and oxen. Or you can stay inside to craft pom-pom chicks and lamb handprints. As a parting gift, the museum provides an heirloom seed in a paper cup. And, of course, they help you plant it.
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KIDS VT
APRIL 2012 KIDSVT.COM
BABY ANIMAL DAY: Saturday, April 7, Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $11-12 adult; $3-6 child; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355, billingsfarm.org.
Submit your May events by April 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
APRIL 1 SUNDAY
Food
Firehouse Pancake Breakfast: Firefighters fix a full spread of morning eats for community members. After filling their bellies, kids climb on the shiny red trucks and make the horns blow. All ages. Williston Fire Department, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $8 adults; $6 seniors; $5 kids; free for children under 2. Info, 878-5622.
Health & Fitness
Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment provides active fun for kids and their parents. Ages 7 and under. YMCA, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free for members; $5-8 family. Info, 862-8993.
Nature & Science
Fossils: Science enthusiasts handle fossilized remains and use clues to guess their origins. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Kitchen Chemistry: Kids explore scientific reactions with household products. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
2 MONDAY
Arts
Arts for Tots: Young ones and their caregivers find creative outlets in music, movement, free play and an art project. Ages 18 months-4. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10-11 a.m. $10 adult/child pair.
Baby & Maternity
Baby Yoga: Mini yogis and their minders stretch and move to soothing music to build coordination, strength and balance. Ages 3-10 months. Preregister. Move You Fitness Studio, Essex, 10:45-11:30 a.m. $10 baby/adult pair. Info, 734-0821. Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: Moms-in-the-making focus on relaxation, strengthening and focus. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. $15. Info, 778-0300. Yoga After Baby: New moms focus on their core, pelvic floor and arm strength, bringing their infants along if they choose. The Shambala Center, Montpelier, 11 a.m.-noon. $10. Info, 778-0300.
Food
Kids in the Kitchen: Banana Pancakes: Little chefs whip up tall stacks of a breakfast favorite with an added tropical fruit. Fresh-made butter and maple syrup for topping complete the meal. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Health & Fitness
Library & Books
Toddler Art Tuesdays: Wee ones get creative, and messy, with mixed media followed by outdoor play and a snack. Ages 2-4 with caregiver. Preregister. Center School Learning Community. Plainfield, 9:30-11 a.m. $10 class; $30 session. Info, 454-1947.
Education
Money Smart Workshop: See Spotlight, page 38.
Library & Books
Craftacular Tuesdays: Kids get caught up in low-tech projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, first Tuesday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665. Creative Tuesdays: Crafters use their imagination and recycled materials. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216. Music With Robert: Families sing along with a local legend. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
4 WEDNESDAY
Baby & Maternity
Breast-Feeding-Mom Support: New mothers get to know each other during this informative and informal session. Children welcome. Trinity Episcopal Church, Rutland, first Wednesday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 747-8665.
Education
Social Thinking: Meetings focus on social-skills development for kids with nonverbal learning disabilities, Asperger’s syndrome and highfunctioning autism. Call for times. Ages 6-17. Preregister. Maple Leaf Clinic, Wallingford, Info, 446-3577.
Food
Cookie Decorating: Budding bakers doll up treats with sprinkles, frosting, sugar and nuts. Panadero Bakery, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-8278. Kids Cook Up Stories: Hungry for words? Readers bring lit to life in the kitchen. For prekindergarten-age children. LACE, Barre, 10 a.m. $3 suggested donation. Info, 476-4276. Kids in the Kitchen: Pho Noodle Soup: Vietnamese noodle soup gets the approval of young cooks who make the broth from scratch. Participants bring home the extras for dinner. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: Basketball-loving high school students spend the afternoon dribbling, shooting and scoring. Preregister. St. Albans City Hall, 2:30-3:45 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266. Kids Open Gymnastics: Tykes tumble and jump while adults connect with other families. Snack is provided. River Arts, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. $5 child, $8 two children, $10 three or more children. Info, 888-1261.
Nature & Science
‘Play Again’: Families gather for a documentary film featuring six teenagers who unplug from technology and embark on their first wilderness adventure. Orchard Valley Waldorf School Main Campus. Montpelier, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 456-7400.
5 THURSDAY
Arts
After School Art Room: Kids get creative in a well-stocked studio. Ages 6-10. ArtisTree Gallery, Woodstock, 3-5 p.m. $15. Info, 457-3500. Art Exploration for Preschoolers: Tots express themselves through music, movement, stories and creation stations with mixed media. Ages 3-5. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 3-5 p.m. $15 child. Info, 457-3500.
Arts
Family Clay Drop-in: Parents join kids for some work on the wheel. All ages. Burlington City Arts Center (BCA), 5:30-7:30 p.m. $5-6 includes one glazed/fired piece; $5 per additional piece. Info, 865-7166. Preschool Clay Drop-in: Kids craft cool stuff using the wheel or working by hand. Preschool ages. Burlington City Arts Center (BCA), 9:3011:30 a.m. $6. Info, 865-7166.
Community
First Friday Family Dance: Supper kicks off a wholesome evening of live music and dancing. All ages. Worcester Town Hall, first Friday of every month, 5:30-10 p.m. $5 person; $8-$12 family. Info, 229-0173.
Education
Little Chefs: Wee ones learn to make a beloved snack: pizza. Ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Preregister. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. $28-38 child. Info, 864-0123. Parent-Child Sign Language: Wee ones use their hands to communicate with mom and dad. Ages birth to 5. Preregister. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.
Pollywog Drop-in Art: Tots get their art fix with a variety of craft materials, from homemade play dough to colorful ribbons. Ages 6 months-5 years accompanied by adult. Burlington City Arts Center (BCA), 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5-6 child/ parent pair. Info, 865-7166.
Safe Routes to School Training: This workshop teaches adults how to share pedestrian and bicycle safety with kids. Attendees receive instructional materials to share with students. Preregister. Memorial Auditorium, Burlington, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 828-5799.
Baby & Maternity
Health & Fitness
Breast-feeding Support Group: Lactating moms bring their babies and share stories, advice and company. Preregister. Family Birthing Center, Northwest Medical Center, St. Albans, first Thursday of every month, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 524-7970.
Community
Mom’s Matinee: Parents and their wee ones catch a flick with dimmed lights and babyfriendly volumes. Palace 9, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. $7.25 adult; $6 child; free for kids under 2. Info, 864-5610.
Health & Fitness
Hot Mama Workout: 9-10 a.m. See April 2. Stroller Gathering: Walkers and their wheeled counterparts meet for a recreation path promenade. Fairfax Community Park & Recreation Path, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 782-6332.
Library & Books
Food for Thought: Teens chat while working on library projects. A pizza dinner finishes off the evening. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Highgate Youth Advisory: Kids in grades 5-8 plan projects with the Crossroads after school program. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 3-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970. Homeschoolers Book Group: Bibliophiles share thoughts on recent reads. Ages 8-10 and 11 and older. Preregister. St. Albans Free Library, first Thursday of every month, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
Afternoon Hoops: 2:30-3:45 p.m. See April 4. Family Gym: 10:30 a.m.-noon. See April 1. Kids Open Gymnastics: 10-11:30 a.m. See April 4.
Library & Books
After School Movie: Film buffs put their feet up and watch a flick, popcorn in hand. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
7 SATURDAY
Arts
Family Art Drop-in: Folks get creative with crafts, drawing and painting whenever the mood strikes. All ages. Burlington City Arts Center (BCA), 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166. Flowery Craft: Celebrate springtime by painting a wooden tulip or sunflower to take home. All ages. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646. Saturday Drama Club: Thespians help Very Merry Theatre produce a show in just three hours. All ages. Preregister. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $15 (or whatever you can afford). Info, 863-6607.
Baby & Maternity
Postnatal Yoga: Moms and their brand-new babies connect through movement and breathing exercises. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin, 10:45-11:45 a.m. $10 mom/baby pair. Info, 778-0300. 7 SATURDAY, P. 38
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Martial Arts Class Trial: 4 p.m. See April 2.
Mother Goose Meets Mother Nature: Parents of little ones gather for education on the use of literature to enrich kids’ curiosity about the natural world. Each family recieves an activity guide and six picture books to get started at home. Participants should attend all four workshops. Adults only. Preregister. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
6 FRIDAY
KIDS VT
Ilsley Detectives’ Club: Youth sleuths investigate Sherlock Holmes, play secret-agent games and craft original mysteries. Grades 5-6. Preregister. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
Arts
LEGO Afternoons: Youngsters create freely from big buckets of building blocks. Parents encouraged to send a snack; popcorn provided. Ages 6 and up. Lincoln Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.
Shelburne Magic Club: Fantasy-card-game lovers play and share tips. Grades 5-8. Pierson Library, Shelburne, first Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.
APRIL 2012
Martial Arts Class Trial: Young martial artists try Aikido on for size. Ages 5-6 and 7-12. Aikido of Champlain Valley, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 951-8900.
3 TUESDAY
Library & Books
KIDSVT.COM
Hot Mama Workout: Kids are welcome while moms squeeze in some fitness. City Hall Gymnasium, St. Albans, 9-10 a.m. Free if preregistered; $10 drop-in. Info, 524-1500, , ext. 266.
Pokemon Invasion: Fans of the popular Japanese card game bring their decks and gather for trading and battles. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
CALENDAR
Prenatal Yoga: Moms-to-be explore meditations, postures and breath work tailored to their minds and bodies during pregnancy. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin, 9-10:30 a.m. $10 person. Info, 778-0300.
Community
Baby Animal Day: See Spotlight, page 36. Easter Egg Hunts: See page 41 for list of egg hunts. RU12? Family Program: Local non-profit working for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning Vermonters seeks ideas for reinvigorating regular family events. Bent Northrup Memorial Library, Fairfield, noon-1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-7812.
Fairs & Festivals
Birthday Bash: Celebrating all birthdays, this party boats a bounce house, tumbling area, infant-specific play space, crafts, and snacks. BFA Fairfax, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 782-6332.
Food
Maple Day: The Vermont Maple Mobile Sugarhouse hands out the sweet stuff drizzled over snow and in cotton-candy form. City Market, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 861-9757; cnunziata@citymarket.coop.
Health & Fitness
Martial Arts Class Trial: 9 a.m. See April 2. Vermont Athletics Youth Lacrosse Day: Fans of this game with Native American roots watch a UVM match. Kids get in free by emailing rallycat@uvm.edu. Bring your stick for some post-game pass and catch with the team. UVM Virtue Field, Burlington. 1 p.m.
Nature & Science
Creeping Colors: This science-packed session teaches kids about capillary action as they watch water crawl up paper and find hidden colors inside a marker. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. It’s a Worm’s World: Vermicomposters squirm under the watchful eyes of young gardeners as kids learn about decomposition and get tips on making their own worm bins. Preregister. Gardener’s Supply, Williston, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 658-2433. Turtle Discovery: Young naturalists learn about shelled natives and help feed those that reside in the museum. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Cells!: Compare plant and animal cells using a compound microscope. Then, using the lab’s video microscope, take a close-up look at your own cheek cells. Ages 9 and older. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
9 MONDAY
Arts
Arts for Tots: 10-11 a.m. See April 2.
Baby & Maternity
Baby Yoga: 10:45-11:30 a.m. See April 2. Breast-feeding Class: Expectant mothers learn the basics for successful nursing. Participants receive additional support postpartum. Preregister. Franklin County Home Health Agency, St. Albans, 7-9 p.m. $15. Info, 527-7531. Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: 5:30-7 p.m. See April 2. Yoga After Baby: 11 a.m.-noon. See April 2.
Health & Fitness
Hot Mama Workout: 9-10 a.m. See April 2.
Library & Books
Books and Beyond: Children’s literature and hands-on activities combine for fun science learning and exploration. Ages 3-5 and their parent or caregiver. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:15-11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Ilsley Detectives’ Club: 3:30-4:30 p.m. See April 2.
10 TUESDAY
Arts
Toddler Art Tuesdays: See April 3.
Education
New Beginnings Support Group: Parents gather to celebrate the joys, accomplishments, and challenges of raising young children that have an autism spectrum diagnosis. Vermont Family Network, Williston, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 863-0423.
Food
Kids in the Kitchen: Omelets: Culinary kiddos whip and mix then fill and flip the perfect morning meal. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
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Kids VT
April 2012 kidsvt.com
Library & Books 8 SUNDAY
Creative Tuesdays: 3-5 p.m. See April 3.
Arts
Game On!: Kids learn new diversions or play old faves. All ages. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, second Tuesday of every month, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’: Movie buffs take in this stop-motion animated film starring George Clooney and Meryl Streep. All ages. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, 7 p.m. $5-7.
Health & Fitness
Mother Goose Meets Mother Nature: 6-8 p.m. See April 4. Music With Robert: 11-11:30 a.m. See April 3.
Family Gym: 10:30 a.m.-noon. See April 1.
11 WEDNESDAY
Nature & Science
Baby & Maternity
About Air: Kids create mini-parachutes to learn how air resistance slows down falling objects.
Burlington La Leche League: Moms bring their questions, babies and older kids, too, to this
Submit your May events by April 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
courtesy of Money Smart Workshop
7 saturday (Continued)
Money Smarts Want to teach your kids about the importance of saving money? You might benefit from your own refresher course. The state of Vermont’s Money Smart Workshop is all about teaching adults how to teach kids about personal finance. Lisa Helme, director of financial literacy and communications at the State Treasurer’s Office, covers five core areas of financial education: earning, spending, saving/investing, borrowing and protecting. In smaller groups, attendees get specific feedback about their own concerns by tackling topics such as allowances, budgets, credit cards and savings. Helme says parents know more than they think about managing their cash; this event demystifies the process of sharing that wisdom. Everyone leaves with take-home worksheets to explore with their kids. And there’s potential for immediate pay off, too: Childcare is provided, and you could win a $100 restaurant gift card. Money Smart Workshop: Tuesday, April 3, Barre Technical Center, 6 -7:30 p.m. Free. Preregister. Info, 476-6237, MoneyEd.Vermont.gov.
breast-feeding support group. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, second Wednesday of every month, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-8228.
Community
Georgia Family Game Night: Candyland, checkers and Monopoly bring gamers to the library. Visitors are welcome to carry in other favorites, too. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, second Wednesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.
Education
Social Thinking: See April 4. Vermont Family Network Conference: Parents and professionals assemble for a day featuring 10 different workshops on caring for children with special needs. The film “Who Cares About Kelsey?” premieres. Preregister. Hilton Burlington, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $75-90 person. Info, 876-5315, ext. 217.
See “First with Kids” videos at VermontChildrens.org
Cookie Decorating: 10:30-11:30 a.m. See April 4. Kids Cook Up Stories: 10 a.m. See April 4. Kids in the Kitchen: Tortellini Salad: Professional chefs share pasta tricks of the trade with burgeoning cooks. Homemade dressing and fresh chopped veggies finish the healthy dish. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: 2:30-3:45 p.m. See April 4. Kids Open Gymnastics: 10-11:30 a.m. See April 4.
Library & Books
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: 2:30-3:45 p.m. See April 4. Family Gym: 10:30 a.m.-noon. See April 1. Kids Open Gymnastics: 10-11:30 a.m. See April 4. Stowe Kids Night Out: An evening away from home includes free play, ice skating, movies and games, all supervised by camp counselors. Ages 5-15. Preregister. David Gale Recreation Center, Stowe, 6-10 p.m. $10. Info, 253-6138.
Library & Books
After School Movie: 3 p.m. See April 6. Songs and Stories with Matthew: Tales and tunes delight a mid-morning crowd. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, Every other Friday, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
LEGO Afternoons: 3:30-4:30 p.m. See April 4.
14 SATURDAY
12 THURSDAY
Arts
Arts
After School Art Room: 3-5 p.m. See April 5. Art Exploration for Preschoolers: 3-5 p.m. See April 5. Pollywog Drop-in Art: 9:30-11:30 a.m. See April 5.
Community
Guiding-Eye Puppies: Canine lovers meet and greet soon-to-be guide dogs and learn about raising one for the benefit of a visually impaired person. All ages. Preregister. Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, South Burlington, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 845-661-1014. Mom’s Matinee: 10:30 a.m. See April 5.
Education
Windows on Waldorf: Prospective students and thier families tour the grade school. Student work showcases the core curriculum. Preregister. Orchard Valley Waldorf School Main Campus, Montpelier, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 456-7400.
Health & Fitness
Hot Mama Workout: 9-10 a.m. See April 2. Stroller Gathering: 9:30 a.m. See April 5.
Library & Books
Highgate Youth Advisory: 3-4:45 p.m. See April 5. LEGO Club: Building-block lovers get busy. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, second Thursday of every month, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
Nature & Science
13 FRIDAY Family Clay Drop-in: 5:30-7:30 p.m. See April 6. Preschool Clay Drop-in: 9:30-11:30 a.m. See April 6.
Community
Burlington Indoor Farmers Market: Farmers and artists peddle their goods. Face painting, music and hands-on activities make the experience fun for kids, too. On April 28th, pint-sized folks make frozen yogurt by hand. Memorial Auditorium, Burlington, Every other Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 310-5172. Chess Championship: Competitors face off in a state-wide bout. Grades K-12. Berlin Elementary School, 9 a.m. $12 in advance; $20 at the door. Info, 223-1948. Magic Show: A slight of hand master wows a family crowd. Fairfax Middle School, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 782-6332. “Sibshops”: Siblings of kids with special needs connect for playtime. Ages 7-12. Preregister. Howard Center McClure Gymnasium, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 1-800-800-4005 , ext. 217. Vermont Has Talent: Locals from 5 to 24 years old show off their musical talents and compete for big prizes. Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 878-8487.
Food
Cupcake Creations: Amateur bakers frost cute confections with professional instruction. Ages 6-12. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. $17 child. Info, 864-0123.
Health & Fitness
Otter Creek Mud Run: Little legs pick up the pace to support the Otter Creek Child Center. All ages. Otter Creek Child Center, Middlebury, 8:30 a.m. $8 child; $15 student; $25 adult; $30 race day registration. Info, 388-9688. Postnatal Yoga: 10:45-11:45 a.m. See April 7. Prenatal Yoga: 9-10:30 a.m. See April 7.
Nature & Science
Egg Drop Challenge: Careful experimenters protect delicately shelled ovums in customdesigned capsules and test their creations with an 18-foot plunge. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 12-2 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Behind the Curtain Everything that happens before the concert is what determines how an orchestra sounds on stage. That’s why it’s cool to catch a behind-the-scenes glimpse of VERMONT YOUTH ORCHESTRA during a rehearsal-setting open house. You can learn about the organization’s rich history — and concertizing alumni — while observing the young players preparing their spring repertoire. Anyone interested in auditioning — provided they’re between third and eighth grade— can get the inside scoop on the process. Stick around for a Q&A with light refreshments after. VYOA OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, April 15, Elley-Long Music Center at Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 3-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-5030, vyo.org Jake the Snake: Kids learn about the lives of reptiles while visiting with a full-grown boa constrictor. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Leaping Lambs and Shear Delights: Little lambs leap about while participants get a feel for wool; watch a sheep get sheared, wash the wool, and learn how to spin and felt. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $10-12 adult; $5-6 child. Info, 985-8686.
15 SUNDAY
Arts
VYOA Spring Open House: See Spotlight, page 39.
Health & Fitness
Family Gym: 10:30 a.m.-noon. See April 1.
Nature & Science
Microscopic Investigations: Kiddos get an upclose look at everyday items using hand lenses and microscopes. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Mirror, Mirror: Science fans learn about symmetry and reflection while creating cool and complex images. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Singing Frogs and Silent Salamanders: Budding naturalists discover who’s making all the springtime noise, and why, then try to return the calls. Ages 4 and older. Preregister. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 1-3 p.m. $10-12 adult/ child pair; $4-5 additional child. Info, 434-3068.
16 MONDAY
Baby & Maternity
Baby Yoga: 10:45-11:30 a.m. See April 2. Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: 5:30-7 p.m. See April 2. Yoga After Baby: 11 a.m.-noon. See April 2.
Health & Fitness
Hot Mama Workout: 9-10 a.m. See April 2.
Library & Books
Early Literacy Workshop: In this three-week series parents of preschool-aged children learn to teach their kids early reading skills. Dinner, childcare and books are included for participants. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
16 MONDAY, P. 41
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Parent-Child Sign Language: 10 a.m. See April 6.
Saturday Drama Club: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. See April 7.
KIDS VT
Education
Grass Folk Craft: Crafters fabricate dolls from pasturage. Preregister. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
APRIL 2012
Arts
Family Art Drop-in: 1-3 p.m. See April 7.
KIDSVT.COM
Science Magic: Kids use trickery and everyday household items to wow their audience. Grades 3 and up. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
CALENDAR
COURTESY OF VERMONT YOUTH ORCHESTRA
Food
APRIL
Story Times SUNDAY Burlington Sunday Stories: Ohavi Zedek Hebrew School, Burlington, April 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-0218. MONDAY Bristol Toddler Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366. Burlington Stories With Megan: Fletcher Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216. Colchester Preschool Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313. Marshfield Story Time: Jaquith Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581. Milton Infant Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Richmond Pajama Time: Richmond Free Library, 6:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3036. St. Albans Story Time: St. Albans Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507. Stowe Family Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Waitsfield Story Time: Joslin Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 496-4205. Waterbury Toddlers-’n’-Twos: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: Buttered Noodles, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810. Woodstock Baby Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.
APRIL 2012 KIDSVT.COM
Fairfax Preschool Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 242-9000. Grand Isle PJ Story Time: Grand Isle Free Library, first Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Stowe Preschool Story Hour: Every other Thursday, See Wednesday. Vergennes Story Time: Bixby Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 877-2211.
Reading With Frosty & Friends: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
Westford Story Time: Westford Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-5639. Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.
Richmond Story Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.
FRIDAY Enosburg Story Hour: Enosburg Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2328.
Shelburne Story Time With Webby: Shelburne Museum, 10:30-11 a.m. Free with admission. Info, 985-3346. South Burlington Tiny Tot Time: South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080. Williston Story Hour: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Info, 878-4918.
WEDNESDAY
Essex Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
St. Albans Story Time: See Monday.
Montpelier Story Time: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Barre Children’s Story Hour: Aldrich Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-7550.
Essex Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, Wednesdays, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
South Burlington Baby Story Time: South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.
Milton Preschool Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
Woodstock Toddler Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.
East Middlebury Preschool Story Hour: Sara Partridge Community Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-7588.
Shelburne Story Time With Mary Catherine Jones: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.
Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, first Tuesday of every month, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.
Alburgh Story Hour: Alburgh Community Education Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 796-6077.
East Barre Kids Story Hour: East Barre Branch Library, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.
KIDS VT
Hinesburg Preschool Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.
Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: 10-10:30 a.m. See Monday.
Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.
Montgomery Story Hour: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, montgomery. librarian@gmail.com.
Highgate Toddler and Preschool Story Time: Highgate Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
TUESDAY
Burlington Science & Stories: ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 324-6386.
40
Early literacy skills get special attention during these free read-aloud sessions. Some locations provide additional activities like music, crafts or foreign language instruction. Contact the story time organizer or visit kidsvt.com for details.
Essex Preschool Story Time: See Tuesday.
Essex Drop-in Story Time: Brownell Library, Every other Friday, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. South Burlington Story Time: Barnes & Noble, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001. Stowe Preschool Story Hour: Stowe Free Library, 10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Swanton Story Hour: Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-7656. Warren Story Hour: Warren Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 496-3913. Waterbury Baby Lap Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.
Highgate Toddler and Preschool Story Time: 11:15 a.m. See Tuesday.
THURSDAY
Jericho Preschool Story Time: Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4962.
Bristol Preschool Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.
Lyndonville Story Time: Cobleigh Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 626-5475.
Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday.
Middlebury Baby and Toddler Story Hour: Ilsley Public Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
Fairfax PJ Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, April 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 782-6332.
Middlebury Stories With Shoopie and Lily: Ilsley Public Library, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
Franklin Story Time: Haston Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.
Montpelier Story Time: 10:30 a.m. See Tuesday. Realms of Reading Crafts: East Barre Branch Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 476-5118. Richford Story Hour: Arvin A. Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 848-3313.
Jericho Evening Family Story Time: Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, April 5, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4962. Jericho Preschool Story Time: See Wednesday. Middlebury Preschool Story Hour: Ilsley Public Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
Georgia Preschool Story Time: Georgia Public Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-4643. Huntington Story Time: Huntington Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-4583. Lincoln Children’s Story Time: Lincoln Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2665. Milton Toddler Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday. South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080. Stowe Baby and Toddler Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Waterbury Preschool Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday. SATURDAY Barre Story Time: Next Chapter Bookstore, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-3114. Colchester Saturday Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313. Hinesburg Saturday Story Time: Brown Dog Books & Gifts, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-5189. South Burlington Saturday Story Time: Barnes & Noble, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001. Woodstock Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.
See “First with Kids” videos at VermontChildrens.org
16 MONDAY (CONTINUED)
Graphic Novels 101: Comic book enthusiasts learn writing and illustrating tips and tricks. Preregister. Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Jericho, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4962. Ilsley Detectives’ Club: 3:30-4:30 p.m. See April 2. Plate, Cup & Bowl: Clay and paint transforms into personalized dishes at the hands of young artists. St. Albans Free Library, through April 28. $10 piece. Info, 524-1507. Reading Takes You Places: Families partake in correlating stories and crafts. Grades K-5. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 626-5475.
Nature & Science
Magnetic Moments: Budding scientists experiment with electric currents. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Playing Telephone: Kids craft paper-cup phones and explore the properties of sound waves. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
17 TUESDAY
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: 2:30-3:45 p.m. See April 4. Kids Open Gymnastics: 10-11:30 a.m. See April 4.
Library & Books
LEGO Afternoons: 3:30-4:30 p.m. See April 4. Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
Nature & Science
About Air: 3 p.m. See April 8. Optical Tops: Young scientists investigate visual changes resulting from rotational motion. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admisson. Info, 649-2200.
APRIL
Egg Hunts Vermonters celebrate the popular Easter custom of seeking and collecting colorful eggs. We’ve found these hunts for you, but some may still be hiding. Check kidsvt.com for updated listings.
21 SATURDAY
Arts
Fairfax, Fairfax Community Park & Recreation Path, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 524-6393.
Arts
Pollywog Drop-in Art: 9:30-11:30 a.m. See April 5.
Community
Guiding-Eye Puppies: 7-8:30 p.m. See April 12.
Milton, Bombardier Park, 10 a.m., Info, 893-4922 Montpelier, Hubbard Park, 10 a.m., Info, 229-5711
Health & Fitness
Community
Stroller Gathering: 9:30 a.m. See April 5.
Food
Kids in the Kitchen: Dog Treats: Animal lovers whip up cookies for their furry friends. Snacks for humans keep hungry bakers sated while creating. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569 , ext. 1.
Library & Books
Creative Tuesdays: 3-5 p.m. See April 3. Game Day: Bring your favorites or play on the library’s own collection of classic board games. All ages. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 626-5475. Music With Robert: 11-11:30 a.m. See April 3. Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
Hoopster Gliders: Kids create a craft that flies. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Education
Social Thinking: See April 4.
Cookie Decorating: 10:30-11:30 a.m. See April 4.
Williston, Williston Central School, 9:30 a.m., Info, 865-2738
Parenting Book Discussion: Parents and caregivers ponder provocative rearing read, Nature Shock: New Thinking About Children. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
Saturday Drama Club: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. See April 7.
Baby & Maternity
Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
Cloth Diapering 101: Parents looking to start a new baby off on the reusable types, and those wanting to switch over from disposables, get tips for choosing the best bum covers. Participants receive $10, their first order. Diaper Days, Essex Jct. 2-3 p.m. $10. Info, 881-9451.
Shelburne Magic Club: third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. See April 5.
Postnatal Yoga: 10:45-11:45 a.m. See April 7. Prenatal Yoga: 9-10:30 a.m. See April 7.
Nature & Science
Community
Mirror, Mirror: 11 a.m. See April 15. Rockets: Young and old compress air to launch water rockets and learn the physics of it all. Preregister. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m.-noon & 2-3:30 p.m. $25 family. Info, 649-2200. Skulls: Science lovers explore skeletal remains of local wildlife. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Spring Discovery: Subtle and spectacular signs of spring are studied by young scientists. Time is made for basking in the sun, collecting wildflowers and catching salamanders. Ages 3-5. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. $8-10 adult/child pair; $4 additional child. Info, 434-3068.
20 FRIDAY
Arts
Family Clay Drop-in: 5:30-7:30 p.m. See April 6. Preschool Clay Drop-in: 9:30-11:30 a.m. See April 6. Scrapbooking Extravaganza: Memory keepers gather mementos with the help of some instruction and available materials. Ages 1014. Preregister. Milton Elementary School, third Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $12. Info, 893-4922.
Community
Kids Night Out: Parents get a break while the younger crowd plays games, do crafts and snack. Grades K-5. Preregister. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 6-9 p.m. $15. Info, 865-7091.
Education
Parent-Child Sign Language: 10 a.m. See April 6.
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: 2:30-3:45 p.m. See April 4. Family Gym: 10:30 a.m.-noon. See April 1. Kids Open Gymnastics: 10-11:30 a.m. See April 4.
Library & Books
After School Movie: 3 p.m. See April 6. Jiggity Jog: Kids let music move them via song, instrument and dance. Ages 2-5. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080. Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
Autism and Teddy Bears: Vermont Family Network and the Howard Center team up to educate the public about this increasingly common neural development disorder. Visitors can tour the factory, make a craft, hear a story, learn about autism and create an Autism Speaks VT Teddy Bear T-shirt. All ages. Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Shelburne, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $3 tours; Free for children under 12. Info, 876-5315, ext. 212. Dance Party: Families come together to groove, sing and play. All ages. Fairfax Middle School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 782-6332.
Fairs & Festivals
Matsuri Festival: Families watch martial arts and Taiko drumming demonstrations in this festival of Japanese culture. Kids try their hands at origami and watch pint-sized samurais show off their skills. All ages. Aikido of Champlain Valley, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $5 person. Info, 951-8900.
Health & Fitness
Vermont Athletics Youth Lacrosse Day: 3 p.m. See April 7.
Library & Books
Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16. 21 SATURDAY, P. 42
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Kids Cook Up Stories: 10 a.m. See April 4.
Highgate Youth Advisory: 3-4:45 p.m. See April 5.
Waterbury, Green Mountain Club Visitor Center, 10 a.m.-noon. Info, 244-7037
Major Mess: Young artists explore holidaythemed projects with mixed media. All ages. Children under 4 must be accompanied by an adult. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, third Saturday of every month, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $10. Info, 457-3500.
KIDS VT
Food
Library & Books
Stowe, Stowe Elementary, 11:30 a.m., $5. Info, 253-6138
Family Art Drop-in: 1-3 p.m. See April 7.
APRIL 2012
18 WEDNESDAY
Hot Mama Workout: 9-10 a.m. See April 2.
Earth Day Craft: Eco-conscious folks turn recycled materials into works of art. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.
KIDSVT.COM
Nature & Science
Sound Science: Curious kids experiment with sounds and how they travel. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Colchester, Bayside Park, 10 a.m. Info, 264-5640
Toddler Art Tuesdays: See April 3.
Color Mixing: Museum guests blend hues and observe the resulting changes. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Oakledge Exploration: Kids and their caregivers explore the park through hikes and activities with Mo the Moose. Preregister. Oakledge Park, Burlington, 9:30-11 a.m. $12. Info, 862-8027.
19 THURSDAY
St. Albans, Main St., 10 a.m. Info, 524-1500
Education
Nature & Science
Barre, Rotary Park, 10 a.m. Info, 476-0256
South Burlington, Ascension Lutheran Church, 10 a.m., Info, 862-8866
Getting There: Life After High School: Parents and caregivers of at-risk teens gather to share concerns and receive support. Vermont Family Network, Williston, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 8765315, ext. 209.
Youth Night: Teens and tweens hang out and enjoy movies, snacks and projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, third Friday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Straw Rockets: Science lovers discover the power of air during this hands-on session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Mom’s Matinee: 10:30 a.m. See April 5.
Art
CALENDAR
APRIL
CALENDAR
Playgroups MONDAY Barre Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, 10 a.m.-noon. $10 child. Info, 223-0517. Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers and Toddlers: St. Joseph School, 11 p.m. Free. Info, 999-5100. Isle La Motte Playgroup: Isle La Motte School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Jeffersonville Hometown Playgroup: Cambridge Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 885-5229. Middlebury Music & Movement: Ilsley Public Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097. Morristown Hometown Playgroup: Morristown Graded Building, Morrisville, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229. Swanton Playgroup: Mary S. Babcock School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Williston Music With Raphael: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Winooski Fathers and Children Together: Winooski Family Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422. TUESDAY Bristol Playgroup: Bristol Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171. Burlington Family Play: VNA Family Room, Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. Burlington Fathers and Children Together: VNA Family Room, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. Hardwick Playgroup: Hardwick Elementary School, 8:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 652-5138. Middlebury Playgroup: Middlebury Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171. Milton Playgroup: New Life Fellowship Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-1457. Montpelier Tulsi Morning Playgroup: Tulsi Tea Room, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-0043. South Hero Playgroup: South Hero Congregational Church, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. St. Albans Playgroup: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Worcester Playgroup: Doty Memorial School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 229-0173.
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APRIL 2012 KIDSVT.COM
WEDNESDAY Barre Open Gym: 10 a.m.-noon. See Monday. Burlington Moving and Grooving: Fletcher Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216. Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School, 12:15-1:15 p.m. Free. Info, 764-5820.
21 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)
Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers and caregivers connect with other local parents and friends. The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts or music themes. Contact the playgroup organizer or visit kidsvt.com for site- details.
Essex Welcome Baby Playgroup: Essex Junction Teen Center, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 872-9580. Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrup Memorial Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Hinesburg Playgroup for Dads: Annette’s Preschool, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. Morrisville Open Gym: River Arts, 1011:30 a.m. $5 child, $3 additional child. Info, 888-1261.
Ferrisburgh Open Gym: Ferrisburgh Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171. Hometown Playgroup Stowe: Stowe Community Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229. Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
All About Fingerprints: Kids get up close and personal with their prints, exploring what makes them unique. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Exploring Binoculars: Ever wonder how binoculars work? In this workshop, curious kids deconstruct a pair and learn about optics. Ages 8-16. Preregister. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 1-2:30 p.m. $10-15 adult/child pair. Info, 434-2167. In the Lab: Glaciers: Science-minded kids explore the nature of ice and make a model glacier. Ages 9 and up. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Mud Fest: Spring is ushered in with nine days of muddy activities and games. Daily live music by Vermont talent energizes the atmosphere. Echo Center, Burlington, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 1-877-324-6386.
Shelburne Sing-along: Lemon Peel Café and Creperie, Shelburne, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 985-9511. Vergennes Playgroup: Congregational Church of Vergennes, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.
Wings are the Things: Learn about the keys to flight in this workshop with live birds. Visitors make and take a themed craft, too. Preregister. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-noon. $10-12 adult; $5-6 child. Info, 985-8686.
Williston Baby-Time Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 658-3659.
22 SUNDAY
Winooski Open Gym With Princess: Regal Gymnastics Academy, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $12 child. Info, 655-3300.
Health & Fitness
Family Gym: 10:30 a.m.-noon. See April 1.
Library & Books
Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
THURSDAY
Nature & Science
Burlington Family Play: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. See Tuesday.
Fossils: 3 p.m. See April 1. Leafcutter Ants: Nature fans examine the secret life of insect fungus farmers during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Essex Movin’ Moms: Move You Fitness Studio, first Thursday of every month, 10:30-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 734-0821.
Mud Fest: See April 21.
23 MONDAY
Fletcher Playgroup: Fletcher Elementary School, Cambridge, first Thursday of every month, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Arts
Johnson Hometown Playgroup: United Church of Johnson, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.
Baby Yoga: 10:45-11:30 a.m. See April 2.
Milton Playgroup: See Tuesday. Montgomery Infant Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Morrisville Baby Chat: First Congregational Church of Morrisville, first Thursday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470. Williston Music With Raphael: See Monday. Winooski Playgroup: O’Brien Community Center, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.
Arts for Tots: 10-11 a.m. See April 2.
Baby & Maternity
Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: 5:30-7 p.m. See April 2. Morrisville Open Gym: See Wednesday.
Yoga After Baby: 11 a.m.-noon. See April 2.
Shelburne Playgroup: Trinity Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 985-2382.
Health & Fitness
St. Albans MOPS: Church of the Rock, St. Albans, first Friday of every month, 8:45-11 a.m. Free. Info, 891-1230. Swanton Late-Morning Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7147.
Colchester Music With Raphael: Burnham Memorial Library, 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.
FRIDAY Colchester Playgroup: See Wednesday.
SATURDAY
Colchester Playgroup: Colchester Village Meeting House, Fridays, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5640.
Essex Center Playgroup: Memorial Hall, Essex Junction, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6751.
South Burlington Tots and Tykes Open Gym: Chamberlin School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.
Enosburg Playgroup: American Legion Enosburg, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 933-6435.
Nature & Science
Fairfax Playgroup: BFA Fairfax, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Hot Mama Workout: 9-10 a.m. See April 2.
Library & Books
Movie Matinee: Kids catch a flick (title TBA) while snacking on popcorn and lemonade. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507. Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
Submit your May events by April 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
See “First with Kids” videos at VermontChildrens.org
South Burlington Crafternoons: Kiddos drop in for artsy fun with a comic strip theme. Make cartoon-character thumbprints, moving storybooks and illustrations using dots. All ages. South Burlington Community Library, through April 27, 12-2 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.
25 WEDNESDAY
Arts
Nature & Science
Art Safari: Tots dive into stories and art activities related to the museum’s collections. Ages 3-5 with adult. Preregister. Shelburne Museum, fourth Wednesday of every month, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $5. Info, 985-3346.
Mud Fest: See April 21.
Education
Magnetic Moments: 3 p.m. See April 16. Straw Rockets: 11 a.m. See April 20.
24 TUESDAY
Arts
Toddler Art Tuesdays: See April 3.
Library & Books
Chittenden Families Together: Families rendezvous to talk housing and living options for adults with developmental disabilities. Preregister. Vermont Family Network, Williston, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 876-5315, ext. 215. Social Thinking: See April 4.
Food
Creative Tuesdays: 3-5 p.m. See April 3.
Cookie Decorating: 10:30-11:30 a.m. See April 4.
Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
Kids Cook Up Stories: 10 a.m. See April 4.
South Burlington Crafternoons: Through April 27, 12-2 p.m. See April 23.
Nature & Science
Bird Homes: Those fond of fowl craft dwellings for feathered friends. Preregister. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-3:30 p.m. $10-15 adult/child pair. Info, 434-2167. Hoopster Gliders: 3 p.m. See April 17. Kitchen Chemistry: 11 a.m. See April 1. Mud Fest: See April 21.
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: 2:30-3:45 p.m. See April 4. Kids Open Gymnastics: 10-11:30 a.m. See April 4.
Library & Books
F L Y N N
“True beauty is revealed in this Zimbabwe Cinderella story.” —Dallas Morning News
Family Matinee
M A I N “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” S Sunday, April 29 at 3 pm T Season Sponsor Sponsor Media A G 153 Main St., Burlington, VT 802.863.5966 v/relay E
Audio described
Presented in association with the University of Vermont’s Chief Diversity Office through the UVM President’s Initiative for Diversity
Vermont's Insider Guide to Kid Friendly Fun
LEGO Afternoons: 3:30-4:30 p.m. See April 4. Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16. South Burlington Crafternoons: Through April 27, 12-2 p.m. See April 23. 25 WEDNESDAY P. 44
P E R F O R M I N G
A R T S
www.flynncenter.org or call 86-flynn today!
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On the Bird Walk KIDSVT.COM
The peregrine falcon was once endangered in Vermont, but conservation efforts have helped restore its local population. Where nesting sites were once off limits, the NORTH BRANCH NATURE CENTER now leads families on a guided walk to the home of a breeding pair on the sheer cliffs of Marshfield Mountain. Even NASCAR fans will be impressed with the swiftness of these feathered hunters that are said to reach speeds of more than 200 miles per hour in flight. The tour is lead by an experienced birder, so bring binoculars and all your fine-feathered questions.
APRIL 2012 KIDS VT
43
PEREGRINE FALCON FORAY: Saturday, April 28, North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. $5 adult, free for children. Info, 229-6206, northbranchnaturecenter.org.
25 WEdNEsdAY (Continued)
spring dance: Families boogie to music in celebration of spring. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7222. Teddy Bear Tea Party: Stuffed friends tag along for stories, creativity and delicate snacks. Preregister. St. Albans Free Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507. Vacation Book and craft: Schoolkids hear a story, create a mask and perform an inspired skit. Grades 2 and older. Preregister. Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Jericho, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4962.
Nature & Science
About Air: 3 p.m. See April 8. mud Fest: See April 21. optical Tops: 11 a.m. See April 18.
26 THURSDAY
Arts
Pollywog drop-in Art: 9:30-11:30 a.m. See April 5.
Community
Guiding-Eye Puppies: 7-8:30 p.m. See April 12.
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Kids in the Kitchen: Fruit Parfaits: Little epicures blend granola, yogurt and berries for a tasty any-time snack. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Production Notes:
Book Writing and illustrating for Kids: Award-winning author and illustrator Sarah Dillard walks kids through the creative process. All ages. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878. Highgate Youth Advisory: 3-4:45 p.m. See April 5.
Yellow Black
LEGo club: 1-5 p.m. See April 12.
The artwork and materials for this piece is to be examined carefully upon receipt. If material is deficient or does not comply with your requirements, please contact: Driven Studio - Jeff Price 1 Lawson Lane, Studio 140 Burlington, VT 05401 802.343.4665 / jeff@drivenstudio.com
LEGo creations: Little architects build tiny creations with interlocking blocks to display at the library. Ages 5 and older. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216. Plate, cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
April 2012 KidsVT.com
south Burlington crafternoons: Through April 27, 12-2 p.m. See April 23.
Nature & Science
mirror, mirror: 11 a.m. See April 15. mud Fest: See April 21. skulls: 3 p.m. See April 19.
27 FRIDAY
Kids VT
Arts
44
Family clay drop-in: 5:30-7:30 p.m. See April 6.
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EcHo LAKE AQUARiUm ANd sciENcE cENTER Info, 864-1848 our Body: The Universe Within: Real human bodies are displayed with attention to the functional systems of the anatomy. Exhibits allow visitors to peer under the skin to discover the complexity and beauty of hominid biology. Opens April 14. FAiRBANKs mUsEUm & PLANETARiUm Info, 748-2372 Wildflower Table: This living exhibit reflects the abundance and diversity of flowers, grasses, berries, ferns and evergreens found in the Northeast Kingdom. Kids are introduced to more than 400 species displayed throughout the year, in both fruit and flowering stages.
Info, 948-2429
Library & Books
Scale 1:1 Keyline to print: NO
Red clover Book Project: Families read and discuss award-winning books, then gather for related projects and activities. Grades K-4.
Food
stroller Gathering: 9:30 a.m. See April 5.
Magenta
Info, 626-5475
iNdEPENdENcE PETTiNG FARm
Hot mama Workout: 9-10 a.m. See April 2.
Colors Cyan
coBLEiGH PUBLic LiBRARY
mom’s matinee: 10:30 a.m. See April 5.
Health & Fitness
Client: UVM Marketing Date: 03/16/12 Job Title: Sugarsnap Ad
Ongoing Events
Animal menagerie: Rain or shine, families visit, pet and feed a variety of animals at this educational, hands-on farm. Open daily, year-round. All ages. moNTREAL sciENcE cENTRE Info, 1-877-496-4724 star Wars identities: Combining LucasFilm archive memorabilia with interactive elements, this exhibit explores the development of identity. Visitors explore character development within the themes of origins, influences and choice. Fan then explore their own existence by combining their identity with fictional elements to create a unique Star Wars character. Through September. moNTsHiRE mUsEUm oF sciENcE Info, 649-2200 charlie and Kiwi’s Evolutionary Adventure: Young visitors learn the basics of evolution through story, exhibits and activities about a boy and his favorite bird, the kiwi. VERmoNT iNsTiTUTE oF NATURAL sciENcE NATURE cENTER Info, 359-5000 Through the Eyes of Raptors: Kids who explore the natural world through the eyes of raptors are usually amazed by these efficient predators. Bird programs cover the mechanics of flight, seasonal migration and conservation issues. All ages. Raptors up close: Little nature lovers discover the fascinating lives of birds in this exhibit featuring touchable artifacts and handson materials. Kids learn how hundreds of birds are rehabilitated each year and the fundamentals of how raptors are trained. All ages.
submit your may events by April 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
See “First with Kids” videos at VermontChildrens.org
APRIL
CALENDAR
Teens!
Community
Burlington Indoor Farmers Market: Every other Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. See April 14.
Health & Fitness
Healthy Kids Day: See Spotlight, page 45.
Library & Books
Miss Eileen’s Last Story Time: A beloved storyteller reads aloud to youngsters for a final time. A cake to share marks the day with sweetness. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 10:30 a.m. Info, 879-0313.
Champlain Discovery co-ed Kayak Adventure This Summer! ages 13-16
Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
Nature & Science
COURTESY OF THE GREEN AUDUBON CENTER
Cells!: 3 p.m. See April 8.
Compost Fest: Dirt lovers learn all about the importance of decomposition for soil enrichment and solid-waste management. Workshops, food, music, raffles and kids’ activities make it fun for the whole family. Green Mountain Compost, Williston, 9 a.m. Free. Info, 660-4949. Falcon Foray: See Spotlight, page 43. Kitchen Chemistry: 11 a.m. See April 1.
Register Now!
Mud Fest: See April 21.
Stepping It Up Whether you run, walk, skateboard or scooter, make sure you’re selfpropelled for HEALTHY KIDS DAY. The Greater Burlington YMCA encourages families to get a move on during a celebration of wellness as part of a national initiative. And, of course, because it’s fun. Activities begin with a half-mile Champ on Church Street Fun Run featuring the lovable Lake Monsters mascot. The good times continue at the Y with non-stop games, open swim, family gym time and a bounce house. Even the snacks require action — spin up a bicycle-powered smoothie or work through a make-andeat sculpture. Tired out yet? Live music and magic shows entertain while informational booths provide health screenings, car seat checks, and other health- and safety-focused services.
Spring Blooms Walk: Winooski Valley Park District leads a 2-mile guided walk through farm fields, natural areas and an active sugar bush looking for buds and discussing invasive species. All ages. Oak Hill View Country Park, Williston, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-5744.
(802) 475-2022
www.lcmm.org
29 SUNDAY
Arts
Real Science.
k8v-LCMaritime0212.indd ‘Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters’: African music and dance accompany this lively performance of a Zimbabwe Cinderella story. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 3 p.m. $22 adult; $15 child. Info, 863-5966.
1
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REAL FUN!
Health & Fitness
Family Gym: 10:30 a.m.-noon. See April 1.
Nature & Science
All About Fingerprints: 11 a.m. See April 21. Creeping Colors: 3 p.m. See April 7. Mud Fest: See April 21
HEALTHY KIDS DAY: Saturday, April 28, Greater Burlington YMCA, Fun Run at 8:30 a.m., other activities take place from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free. Info, 862-8993, ext. 137, gbymca.org.
30 MONDAY
Baby & Maternity
Baby Yoga: 10:45-11:30 a.m. See April 2. Preschool Clay Drop-in: 9:30-11:30 a.m. See April 6.
South Burlington Crafternoons: Through April 27, 12-2 p.m. See April 23.
Education
Nature & Science Mud Fest: See April 21.
Yoga After Baby: 11 a.m.-noon. See April 2.
Food
Montshire Membership!
Health & Fitness
Family Art Drop-in: 1-3 p.m. See April 7.
Hot Mama Workout: 9-10 a.m. See April 2.
Library & Books
Saturday Drama Club: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. See April 7.
Library & Books
Plate, Cup & Bowl: Through April 28. See April 16.
Baby & Maternity
Songs and Stories with Matthew: Every other Friday, 10-10:45 a.m. See April 13.
Prenatal Yoga: 9-10:30 a.m. See April 7.
Family Gym: 10:30 a.m.-noon. See April 1.
After School Movie: 3 p.m. See April 6.
Postnatal Yoga: 10:45-11:45 a.m. See April 7.
Early Literacy Workshop: 5:30 p.m. See April 16.
Open Daily 10-5
Montshire
Museum of Science
montshire.org • 802.649.2200 Exit 13 I-91, Norwich, VT
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45
Arts
Afternoon Hoops: 2:30-3:45 p.m. See April 4.
Straw Rockets: 11 a.m. See April 20.
KIDS VT
Kids Open Gymnastics: 10-11:30 a.m. See April 4.
Health & Fitness
• Unlimited visits for 12 months • Savings on education programs • Early registration and savings for Summer Camp • Savings in the Museum Store
APRIL 2012
28 SATURDAY
Kids in the Kitchen: Rice Pudding: Young foodies cook and top perfectly blended custards. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569 , ext. 1.
Sound Science: 3 p.m. See April 20.
KIDSVT.COM
Parent-Child Sign Language: 10 a.m. See April 6.
SAVE all year
Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: 5:30-7 p.m. See April 2.
11/18/11 11:18 AM
First Annual
Sponsored by: Naturally You Childbirth
Everything Pregnancy & Baby Expo!
HAnds-on Q THe PARTy PLAnneR by KAt rin A r obe rts
Williston Central School Saturday May 5th, 10am–4pm Adults: $5 Children: Free childbirth education * birth/postpartum doulas * breastfeeding support chiropractic care * pregnancy/postpartum massage * infant massage acupuncture * holistic health * baby clothes/toys/gear * photography and more
*Vendor space still available for anything pregnancy & baby related. Please contact eronsnycoflove@yahoo.com or 802-363-9597. 8h-NaturallyYouChildbirth0412.indd 1
3/21/12 11:08 AM
Skating 101 My two oldest daughters, Lily and Nola, were recently invited to an ice-skating party. This prompted some family discussion, because we are skiers, not skaters. In fact, none of us had ever donned skates before this invitation.
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Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
April 2012
KidsVT.com
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there’s a dream in all of us ... feed it. WIC offers healthy food, nutrition resources, and referrals to health and community services to families in Vermont.
Tips:
even though you’ll be indoors, dress warmly and don’t forget your helmet.
Both girls attended the party and, despite a few bruises, had a wonderful experience, all captured on video. They skated to their hearts’ content — alongside my teetering, Vermont-born husband — and enjoyed cake and presents at the rink. In fact, Nola has asked repeatedly to go skating again. Whether they’re into Kempo Martial Arts, finger knitting or ice skating, your kids can lead you to a new hobby or activity outside of the family’s comfort zone. I know there’s a skating birthday party in our future. It’ll be at one of two places: cAiRns ARenA 600 Swift Street, South Burlington, cairnsarena.com Cairns offers year-round skating with two rinks, a locker-room space and no limits on party size. Private parties can be combined with public skating. Private rate: $180 per hour. Public skating: $5 per adult, $3 per child ages 6-17, and $1 for seniors and children 5 and under. Skate rentals $2 during private parties, $3 during public skating. PAqueTTe ARenA AT Leddy PARK 216 Leddy Park Road, Burlington, enjoyburlington.com/leddypark Leddy’s Olympic-size rink is open year-round, while the studio rink offers up its ice from September to March. Leddy has a private lounge as well as an outdoor barbecue space for summer use. Studio rink: $115 per hour. Olympic rink: $200 per hour including lounge. For an additional fee, Leddy can also arrange for a junior instructor to guide attendees.K
Find out how WIC can help your family grow. Call 1-800-649-4357 or visit our web site at healthvermont.gov/wic
Got an idea for the Party Planner? WIC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
send it to ideas@kidsvt.com.
Birthday Club Sponsored by
Every month, birthday kids win prizes, and their picture appears in Kids VT to make their birthdays extra special!
Congratulations to these
April Birthday Club winners: 8h-800gotjunk0412.indd 1
Grand Prize Winner KYLE lives in Milton and
turns 13 in April. Kyle is very outgoing, writes his own songs and loves to sing.
Kyle wins a $75 gift certificate from Bounce Around VT.
Join the Club!
®
• Private party space staffed by a Vermont Teddy Bear Ambassador. • Newly refurbished 900 sq.ft. private party space
Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled.
Hannah, Mike and Lucas win $50 gift certificates from Bounce Around VT. HANNAH lives in South Burlington
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$ Call today 527-5725 www.bouncearoundvt.com on. Please present coupon when making reservati Not valid with other offers.
Parties available seven days a week! The Vermont Teddy Bear Company 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT (802) 985-1627 • birthdayparties@vtbear.com k6h-VTTeddy-2-0611.indd 1
5/24/11 6:28 PM
K6H-jamie2coats0412.indd 1
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off
APRIL 2012
and turns 10 in April. He enjoys reading and playing the piano and spends lots of time constructing and creating with LEGOs.
Choose from Bounce Castles, Houses, Ballerina and more! Great for all parties! Super and Safe Outdoor Fun! Free Delivery* Now Renting 25 ft. Waterslide Snowcone and popcorn machine rentals available! By the hour or by the day uncearou w.bo ndvt.com ww
NCE AROUND VT U O B LUCAS lives in New Haven and turns 7 in April. Lucas loves to play soccer, basketball, hockey and baseball. He also enjoys riding his four-wheeler and snowmobiling.
r Become ouend fri Facebook ial offers ec and get spscounts! and di
Call today
527-5725
Say you saw it in
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Delivery charge may apply outside of Chittenden or Franklin County. Safety and cleanliness are a priority. We vacuum and sanitize each inflatable daily. All children are required to wear clean socks.
KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
Backyard Parties! MIKE lives in South Burlington
KIDSVT.COM
and turns 4 in April. Hannah enjoys playing with her brother and loves to color, paint and read.
Celebrate your Birthday at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory!
All parties include: • A private tour • A Make a Friend for Life® Bear for each child
To enter, submit information using the online form at kidsvt.com/birthday-club.
3/7/12 3:12 PM
HANDS-ON
BY JAN BUCKNER WALKER
answers p. 51
PUZZLE PAGE
Kids Across/Parents Down
Enjoy fun time with Mom, Dad or your favorite grown-up. The across clues are for kids and the down clues are for adults.
Skin in the Game
48
by: NationalLifeGroup.com Kids VT VT money Aprilissue 2012 sponsored kidsvt.com
April 2012
kidsvt.com
Kids Across
Parents Down
1. A movie about birds who go on a family trip: “The _____ of the Penguins”
2. Emperor penguin’s chilly continent
5. A baby penguin (or ostrich or eagle)
Puzzles4Kids
BY HELENA HOVANEC
Riddle Search — On the Road
ALLIGATOR AVOCADO CUCUMBER FROG GRAPE GRASS HOLLY IGUANA IVY KALE
KIWI LAWN LEAF LIME MUSTARD OLIVE PICKLE PINE SHAMROCK
6. It helps a penguin to stand up straight (much like a kickstand holds your bicycle steady)
4. Penguin’s pole
8. Layer of fat that helps keep Emperor penguins warm
9. 10A talk: Where to find the puck if a Penguin achieves his goal
10. The Pittsburgh Penguins play it on ice. 11. The color of the Emperor penguin’s chest
Look up, down and diagonally, both forward and backward, to find every word on the list. Circle each one as you find it. When all the words are circled, take the UNUSED letters and write them on the blanks below. Go from left to right and top to bottom to find the answer to this riddle: What is green and sings?
13. Penguins can ____ much faster than they can move on land 15. Deep thought: Emperor penguins can ____ hundreds of feet under the sea to catch their dinner 17. Penguins catch and eat them for dinner
Riddle Answer:
3. Birds beware!: Along with the shark, the killer _____ is among a penguin’s primary predators 7. Some penguins use rocks to build a ____
12. What Emperor penguins do during a snowstorm to keep warm (or a gridiron gathering) 13. What a penguin makes when it leaps from an iceberg 14. Penguin’s prominent facial feature (or the last thing your waiter brings to the table) 16. Penguin couple’s precious possession
18. The Penguins have it the moment they score the first goal of a game
19. Grounded!: A penguin’s 19A are great for swimming, but can’t be used to ___
19. Penguins use their________ as underwater “wings”
20. A penguin may be cute, but is not a good ___
22. A funny family film about penguins in love that made millions smile (2 wds)
21. Place a penguin feels right at home
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ © 2011 Jan Buckner Walker. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.
COLORING CONTEST! Send us your work of art by April 15. You could win $25. Plus, winners get an additional $10 when they open a TD Bank Young Saver Account by May 31st. Be sure to include the info at right in your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8, and (3) ages 9-12. The best artwork will be featured on kidsvt.com, and winners will be named in the May issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.
Title _______________________________________ Artist _____________________________________ Age _______________________________________ Town _____________________________________ Email _____________________________________ Phone _____________________________________
KIDSVT.COM APRIL 2012 KIDS VT
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HANDS-ON
materials • empty, clear plastic bottle (A 2-liter soda or juice bottle works well)
Bird Banks I was one of those kids who saved her money, in bear-shaped piggy bank that my grandfather painted pink. I loved collecting coins that were “different,” such as silver dollars and 50-cent pieces. Try out this friendly, feathered coin bank to get kids excited about saving. Use a clear plastic bottle and they can watch their banks fill up, knowing they’ve got a pile of savings for an excursion, a toy or a donation.
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April 2012
Q CRAFTING WITH KIDS
Kids VT money issue sponsored by: NationalLifeGroup.com
kidsvt.com
• construction paper in different colors or patterns • scissors • glue • tape • magazine
— By Emily Rose
1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
Share your fun craft ideas with us!
12.
Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.
13.
With the bottle upright, cut a slot near the top for the coins. (This step should be done by an adult.) Cut a piece of construction paper to wrap around the body of the bottle, leaving a half-inch gap where the ends of the paper would meet. This will allow kids to see their coins add up. Cut an oval shape from a different color paper and glue it to the belly of the bird bank. Cut two pieces of paper into wing shapes, like an elongated spade, with a pointed end and a rounded end. The rounded end should have a “stem,” which you’ll use to attach it to the bottle. Tear pieces of magazine pages into inch-long strips to create feathers for the wings. You could use craft feathers instead. Glue the torn pieces of magazine to the wings and allow them to dry. Fold back each wing’s stem/tab and use glue to attach them to the side of the bottle. Cut a pipe cleaner into a three-inch length, then fold it in half. Glue this V-shaped pipe cleaner to the bottle cap to create a spiky crest for your bird. Cut out two eyes and a beak and glue them to the face. Cut two pieces of paper into feet shapes and glue them to the ends of two pipe cleaners. Bend the pipe cleaners to create legs and tape the other ends underneath the bottle. Perch your bird in a visible spot to collect coins.
USE YOUR WORDS
Not-So-Big Spender It’s easier to give gifts when you can’t afford to shop
Do we make the grade? Let us know!
BY TIM BR OOKE S
WHEN I WAS GROWING UP, my family was very, very
I came to dread Christmas and my daughters’ birthdays.
PUZZLE PAGE ANSWERS (see p. 48)
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JUmbLES WAG, TeLL, sHeD, WINK RIDDLE ANSWER: This wears shoes, but doesn’t have any feet? A SIDEWALk
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RIDDLE SEARCH ANSWER: elvis parsley
KIDS VT MONEY ISSUE SPONSORED BY: NationalLifeGroup.com
“Use Your Words” is a monthly essay in which writers reflect on parenting and childhood. Got a story to share? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
Send Kids VT progress reports to feedback@kidsvt.com.
APRIL 2012
back 40 or 50 years, as if I had become my own parents, struck dumb by horror and dismay. Yet within a couple of weeks, Barbara would whisper joyfully that she had managed to get almost everything on the list. To me, this was anything but good news. It meant our meager household budget was already under strain, and anything I spent would make things even worse. Time and again I would find myself walking up and down Church Street, my heart sinking with each step, trying to find that fictitious gift that was exactly what my daughter wanted yet hadn’t thought to put on her list. It — or they — should be lavish enough to speak to the love in my heart, yet preferably cost less than $25. This past birthday — Maddy’s late in February — I think we finally cracked it. Barbara, planning ahead as always, bought herself, Maddy and Maddy’s boyfriend tickets to see The Book of Mormon in New York, plus two nights in a hotel. I can’t imagine how much this cost, but I decided, at long last, that it wasn’t my job to do so. Fact is, I can’t stand musical theater, and my family knows it. This was a mother-daughter thing, and, frankly, mothers and daughters need their thing. For my part, I decided to do a father-daughter thing, and bought her all kinds of paraphernalia from the TV show “Psych,” which Maddy and I watch religiously and repeatedly. I ordered the “Psych” iPhone cover, the “Psych” pen, the Burton Guster Pharmaceutical Rep pen, the “I’ve heard it both ways” T-shirt. Plus the soundtrack CD to Midnight in Paris, as she and I both love French music, especially gypsy jazz. That whole bundle probably didn’t come close to the cost of a single ticket to The Book of Mormon, but what I had finally come to understand was that Maddy didn’t think of me as a stingy person, and the only reason she’d ever think me mean spirited would be if I tried to curb her mother’s generosity. Children don’t need presents, or money. Anyone who has watched a 2-year-old happily spend an hour banging a wooden spoon on an overturned saucepan knows that. They need their parents’ love, which can be expressed in any number of ways. Right now I’m making Maddy a kind of late, or follow-up, birthday present: an easel, handmade out of cherry wood, that will help (I hope) in her art career, and with care will last 20 or 30 years. What did that cost? Maybe $30 for materials. The real investment is exactly what it costs to raise a child: time, labor, patience, love.
KIDSVT.COM
poor. This didn’t dismay my parents unduly, I suspect. We lived in England, and the entire nation was poor. The Second World War had ended less than a decade before I was born, and rationing and the ghastly postwar “austerity” years meant tight belts and empty stomachs well into the ’60s. Most of the time, we didn’t even realize we had no money. The exception came when it was time to buy presents for Christmas and birthdays. The presents in our household weren’t quite at the Harry Potter-level of a toothpick or a used Kleenex, but I certainly remember one Christmas getting a wooden ruler. And we had a fairly strict one-present-to-oneperson tradition — so much so that when I emigrated to the United States, became marginally less poor, and sent multiple presents to my siblings and their kids, I made them uncomfortable. This may make me sound like a Dickensian waif, but when I was back in England, I didn’t mind. When you’re that poor, you know exactly what you can and can’t afford, and what you can and can’t expect to receive. It’s when things change that the trouble arises. Fast-forward to the United States in the mid-1990s. Financially, everything had changed. Thanks to Reaganomics, the U.S. had gone from being the world’s thriftiest, saving nation to its biggest spender/ debtor nation. The dot-com boom had further served to convince us that we could all be billionaires. And in my own life, I married Barbara, a woman of such spontaneous generosity it made my head spin, and we were raising two young daughters. Barbara and I were by no means well off, but that didn’t hold her back when birthdays or Christmas were approaching. For her, the rule was closer to 12 presents to one person. In her own childhood, she had always been the victim of her parents’ bargain-basement shopping, so quality mattered. Unlike me, she gave a lot of thought, early and often, to what everyone wanted or might possibly want. She started ordering and buying and wrapping so far ahead of time that when I started to think about Christmas, all the good presents had already been taken. They say the two most contentious issues between couples are sex and money, and money alone was driving us apart. I came to dread Christmas and my daughters’ birthdays. About two months out, the girls would start drawing up gift lists that catapulted me
Moving To Essex In May! 22,000 square foot, fully air-conditioned facility!
www.regalgym.com • 655-3300
2012 SUMMER CAMPS Reg June 18-June 22 i Camp Regal’s Tod ster Got Talent ay! June 25-June 29 It’s Unbelievable (Magic) July 9-July 3 Hollywood July 16-July 20 Under the Big Top July 23-July 27 Summer Olympics July 30-August 3 Under the Sea
We s u meapply for o ls cam ur ps!!
August 6-August 10 On Broadway August 13-August 17 Once Upon A Time August 20-August 24 Disney k1t-RegalGymnastics0412.indd 1
3/19/12 12:44 PM