Kids VT, December 2016/ January 2017

FREE

DEC 2016/JAN 2017 VOL. 23 N O. 11/12

The

Nutcracker

Saturday December 17, 2016 • 2 & 7pm • Sunday December 18, 2016 • 1 & 6pm The Flynn Center For The Performing Arts • Burlington, Vermont

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KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

Tickets start at $23 802-86Flynn • www.flynntix.org 21 Carmichael St. Suite 203 Essex Junction, VT 05452 For Info 878-2941 www.vbts.org • info@vbts.org

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VOL 23.NO 11 /12

DEC 2016/JAN 2017 Editor’s Note....................................................................5 See & Say ...........................................................................6 Coloring Contest Winners .................................7 Writing Contest Winners....................................7 Habitat: Alpine Accents..........................................43 Birthday Club..................................................................45 Use Your Words: Keeping the Faith ............47

Explore and Soar...20

Birding to Change the World gets kids and their college mentors into the woods

EAT. LEARN. PLAY Kids Beat .............................................................................8 One to Watch: Imani Kowalewski .................10 Fit Families: Cross-Country Skiing ............11 Destination Recreation: Photo Studio..... 12 Bookworms: Inspiring Reads............................13 Balancing Act: Judy Klima & Anna Thelemarck................................................14 The Art of Sign-Making .........................................15 Checkup: Infant Sleep Safety............................16 Mealtime: St. Lucia Rolls .....................................17

Your Cheese & Wine Place

We find the deals, you get the savings

GIFT BASKETS

Cheese, wine, sweets

CALENDAR Daily Listings ..................................................................24 Classes ..................................................................................25 Ongoing Exhibits .........................................................32 Story Times ......................................................................34 Playgroups ........................................................................38

Rocking a Winter Wonderland...18 Family-friendly fun at Stowe’s Adventure Center

ON THE COVER

For teachers, care-takers, friends & someone special.

Choose from our prepackaged designs, ask about our new gift basket menu, or design your own!

Underhill resident Amber Renshaw captured this wintry shot of her husband, Jay, pulling daughters Maven and Juniper through the snow.

HANDS ON Writing Contest............................................................44 Puzzle Page ......................................................................45 Coloring Contest .........................................................46

“NEW NAME AND LOOK, SAME GREAT PRICES AS ALWAYS!”

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

• •

Editorial content in Kids VT is for general informational purposes. Parents must use their own discretion for following the advice in any editorial piece. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute service/product endorsement. Kids VT is a proud member of the Parenting Media Association. Kids VT distribution is audited for accuracy.

Da Capo Publishing shall not be held liable to any advertiser for any loss that results from the incorrect publication of its advertisement. If a mistake is ours, and the advertising purpose has been rendered valueless, Da Capo Publishing may cancel the charges for the advertisement, or a portion thereof as deemed reasonable by the publisher. Da Capo Publishing reserves the right to refuse any advertising, including inserts, at the discretion of the publishers.

Proofreaders Carolyn Fox Katherine Isaacs Production Manager John James Creative Director Don Eggert Designers Charlotte Scott Rev. Diane Sullivan Circulation Manager Matt Weiner Business Manager Cheryl Brownell

DISCOUNTS ON NATURAL, GLUTEN-FREE AND KID-FRIENDLY FOODS

Contributing Writers: Darcie Abbene, Sarah Tuff Dunn, Astrid Lague, Abigail Mnookin, Ken Picard, Jessica Lara Ticktin Photographers: Oliver Parini, Matthew Thorsen, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur

1186 Williston Rd., So. Burlington, VT 05403 (Next to the Alpine Shop) 802.863.0143 www.cheesetraders.com Open 7 days 10am-7pm

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© 2016 Da Capo Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.

ext. 74 ext. 77 ext. 75 ext. 75 ext. 41 ext. 76 ext. 72 ext. 78

KIDS VT

Published 11x per year.

Circulation: 25,000 at 600+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.

cathy@kidsvt.com colby@kidsvt.com alison@kidsvt.com meredith@kidsvt.com brooke@kidsvt.com corey@kidsvt.com kaitlin@kidsvt.com brett@kidsvt.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

P.O. Box 1184 Burlington, VT 05402 802-985-5482 kidsvt.com

Cathy Resmer Colby Roberts Alison Novak Meredith Coeyman Brooke Bousquet Corey Grenier Kaitlin Montgomery Brett Stanciu

KIDSVT.COM

Copublisher/Executive Editor Copublisher Managing Editor Contributing Editor Art Director Marketing & Events Manager Account Executive Calendar Writer

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11/28/16 5:04 PM

Today’s Special:

Healthy Meals for Vermont Kids Making the Healthy Choice, the Easy Choice

Sugary drinks are the largest source of calories in kids’ diets.

Busy families on the run are grabbing meals out more often, and soda is usually the beverage served with kids’ meals.

A child’s chance of becoming overweight increases every time they have a sugary drink.

Parents need the healthy choice to be the easy choice.

Vermont is already serving our kids better in schools and early childcare, where healthy drinks and meals are the default choice.

Let’s serve our kids better at restaurants too.

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KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

Learn more and get involved.

Go to www.servingkidsbettervt.org or text HEALTHY to 52886

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EDITOR’S NOTE

True Colors ALISON NOVAK

BIRT PARHTDAY Y

YOUR 2 HOUR PARTY IN THE CASTLE ROOM INCLUDES: 1.25 Hours of Gym Time • 45 Minutes in Party Room • Full Table Setting with China and Linens • Balloons • Goody Bags Coffee for Adults • Games with Prizes • Arts & Crafts • 100% Juice or Milk for Kids

HERE

!

AVE H R O OUR Y

AY D H BIRTARTY! P HERE

1.5 HOUR PARTY IN THE NINJA WARRIOR TRAINING CENTER for Ages 6+

Call to reserve TODAY!

655-3300 or for more details

We now have new specialty equipment to offer ninja classes for children 5 plus starting in January.

visit regalgym.com

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11/30/16 11:25 AM

Try Vermont’s Other Great Winter Sport...

ICE FISHING I

Saturday, January 28 is FREE Fishing Day, a day when anyone can fish statewide without a license.

Not Sure How? No Problem

Join us on January 28 at Hoyts Landing in Springfield, VT for our FREE Ice Fishing Day Festival!

Get hands-on experience and tips on using ice-fishing gear and enjoy a fresh fish fry. Bring your own equipment or borrow ours.

Learn more about the festival and Vermont’s ice fishing by visiting our website: www.vtfishandwildlife.com.

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BUY YOUR LICENSE ONLINE TODAY • www.vtfishandwildlife.com

KIDS VT

ALISON NOVAK, MANAGING EDITOR

Try Before You Buy

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

compiled in these pages. Read about Stowe Mountain Resort’s new $25 million Adventure Center, with climbing walls galore, in “Rocking a Winter Wonderland” on page 18; it includes a sidebar of other indoor climbing centers. And turn to “Destination Recreation” on page 12 to learn about a new photo studio in Burlington that provides a good dose of old-timey family fun.

This installment of Kids VT is our only double issue of the year, so you’ll find an events calendar packed with December and January activities. Look for our next issue in February 2017; it comes out the week of our annual Camp & School Fair on Saturday, February 4, at the Burlington Hilton. In the meantime, the crew at Kids VT wishes you a happy New Year, one filled with beauty, wonder and maybe even a few rainbows.

ce fishing is a great way to get outdoors with friends and family, and get the fixings for a locally grown fresh fish fry.

KIDSVT.COM

ON THE SATURDAY after Thanksgiving, I took a muchneeded walk in the park with my kids, husband, parents and sister. Halfway through our outing, it began to drizzle.

But as we approached the parking lot, our jaws dropped at the sight of a huge rainbow arching across the sky. Then, right before our eyes, another rainbow appeared above it, creating a double rainbow worthy of internet-meme fame.

We spent 15 minutes marveling at the beautiful dispersion of light, fully elated as we took pictures and videos.

The magical moment got me thinking about the transformative power of nature — to excite, calm, uplift and make me forget everyday problems, even if just temporarily.

That sentiment is at the heart of Ken Picard’s feature story in this month’s issue, “Explore and Soar.” Picard writes about a University of Vermont class called Birding to Change the World. He describes how UVM lecturer Trish O’Kane pairs college students with elementary-school kids and gets the group bird-watching. O’Kane, a former journalist and human rights investigator, became interested in birds when she returned to her New Orleans home four months after Hurricane Katrina hit. In the wake of the storm’s destruction, the returning birds — and their songs — had a calming, almost therapeutic, effect on her.

Now O’Kane strives to get kids into the woods so they, too, can share that experience. Read the story on page 20.

Gliding across a pristine field of snow on cross-country skis is another way to revel in the majestic outdoors.

In “Fit Families” (page 11), Sarah Tuff Dunn suggests 10 places in Vermont perfect for family cross-country skiing — and snowshoeing — outings.

Some even involve cookies and hot chocolate!

On days when it’s just too blustery to be outside, your family can try some of the indoor activities we’ve

HAVE YOUR

SEE & SAY

Contributor’s Note

Abigail Mnookin (“Use Your Words,” page 47) is an educator, writer, nature lover, birth doula and climate activist who feels grateful to be working with environmental nonprofit 350Vermont on their Mother Up! project. Abby quickly fell in love with Vermont in 2002, when she moved to the Green Mountain state to work at the Putney School. She lives with her wife and their two young daughters in Brattleboro, where they strive to travel by foot or bike.

Looking Back

Abigail Mnookin (right) and family

For our final issue of 2016, we tallied up our web traffic to find out which of the year’s stories were the most widely read and shared online. We weren’t surprised to see Sarah Yahm’s February cover story at the top of the list, or Katie Titterton’s analysis of the “benefits cliff” faced by so many Vermont families. Read these stories — and all of our past issues — at kidsvt.com.

FREE

1 “Young & Transgender: Vermont

FEBRUARY 2016 VOL.23 NO.1

DAY ✱ VALENTINE’S COOKIES & CARDS ✱ FAT BIKING FUN SKI SLOPE ✱ FRONT-YARD

Families on Raising Kids in Transition” by Sarah Yahm, February 2016

2016 CAMP GUIDE

Cool Glider

Looking for an energy-burning winter activity that doesn’t require a pricey lift ticket? Most indoor ice-skating rinks offer public skating and rentals at a price that won’t break the bank. Find a sampling below.

B.O.R. Arena Barre, barrecity.org/bor Highgate Sports Arena Highgate, highgatevt.org

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KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 KIDSVT.COM

Don't Miss Out! Find all the calendar listings for December and January on page 24.

Astronomy Day

Saturday, January 28, 10:30 a.m.4:30 p.m., at the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich

Fenton W. Chester Arena Lyndon Center, chesterarena.org

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“Habitat: VW Bus Cupola”

by Darcie Abbene, May 2016

Memorial Sports Center Middlebury, memorialsportscenter.org

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Central Vermont Memorial Civic Center Montpelier, cvmcc.org

“Dear Old Dad: Fathers Reflect on Having Kids Later in Life” by Erik Esckilsen, June 2016

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“Living Small: A Family of Three Makes a Tiny House Their Home” by Alison Novak, August 2016

FREE

SEPTEMBER

2016

VOL.23 NO.8

& ✱ CORN MAZES DS APPLE ORCHAR

Back tol Schoo

✱ BOARDING OR BUST

SCHOOL

'S ✱ AN ART TEACHER TIPS MUSEUM-VISITING

‘The Gift’

Saturday, December 17, 3 p.m., at Leddy Park Arena in Burlington

Lessons in

Kindness

RO

OM

IN B AR RE

“Lessons in Kindness: A Vermont Nonprofit Helps Kids Learn Empathy” by Alison Novak, September 2016

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“Perfect Sense: A New Space in Barre Lets Kids With Autism Explore and Relax”

by Sarah Yahm, September 2016

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“Over the Rainbow: A Mom Fights to Save Her Babies After a Heartbreaking Loss”

by Alexandria Kerrigan, October 2016

Laurie Berkner: Greatest Hits Tour

Saturday, January 14, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., at Higher Ground in South Burlington

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“Habitat: Magic Harry Potter Bus” by Ken Picard, August 2016

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CALENDAR A Vermont nonprofit helps kids learn empathy

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APRIL 2016 VOL.23

Balance

VOL.23 NO.5

FREE

“One to Watch: A South Burlington Teen Sets Her Sights on Changing the World”

by Mary Ann Lickteig, November 2016

Old

Dad

JUNE 2016 ✱ EARLY SUMMER HIKES ✱ BTV LITTLE LEAGUE IN CUBA ✱ FAMILY GARDENING PROJECTS

The Issue

Dear

Stowe Arena Stowe, stowerec.org/ stowe-arena/about The Spartan Arena Castleton, castleton.edu/ about-castleton/our-campus/ the-spartan-arena

FREE

QUÉBEC CITY

RY

Essex Junction Skating Facility Essex Junction, rink.ccsuvt.org

2016 CAM P GUIDE

Life in

“Tough Choices: Vermont Parents Are Opting Out of Work to Retain Benefits” by Katie Titterton, April 2016

Two Vermont families talk about raising transgender kids

EW SENSO

C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena South Burlington, cairnsarena.com

The

2

ung Yo and in Transition

AN

Leddy Park Arena Burlington, enjoyburlington.com/ venue/leddy-park-3

Money Issue

on Fathers reflect en having childr later in life

WEEKEND

NO.3

Winners' Circle

In the November issue, we asked young writers to share how they extended a helping hand to others. Each of the two winners receives a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop in Burlington. Below are their winning entries.

Roy Powers, 8

Aiyana Auer, 10 ST. ALBANS

I knit and crochet, and last year I Every year we decided to make hats buy supplies and and socks and I sold them at a local backpacks and get health food store. The money I raised together with other families to pack I donated to Martha’s Kitchen, which them with fun things. We give the is a community kitchen. The project packs to the Vermont that they were doing was Refugee Resettlement called Empty Bowls, and we Find the February Program. The children who participated the night of the writing prompt come to Vermont from other event to raise awareness of on page 44. The countries get a new pack hunger. The director was deadline is January with school supplies. I feel very pleased with what I had 15. Happy writing! good welcoming new kids to done to help our community.

Vermont.

RICHMOND

COLORING CONTEST This month’s feline with a fork and

knife inspired a bountiful batch of food-related entries, with edibles ranging from leftover Halloween candy to Thanksgiving turkey. Lucas Bittner, 6, filled the background behind his rainbow-colored cat with a mosaic of lollipops, mini chocolate bars and gum. Twelve-year-old Erica Manchester’s kitty skated gracefully over a frozen pond, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, a spiky forest of pine trees and a radiant golden sun.

One of the most vibrant creations came courtesy of 5-year-old Lily Hebert, who colored her purr-fectly happy cat with all the shades in the rainbow. We can’t thank you enough for sending in your submissions this year — and we eagerly anticipate your marvelous masterpieces in 2017.

The winners of annual family memberships to the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium are…

5 and under

“Flower Power” Cory Bugbee, 5 JERICHO

HONORABLE MENTIONS FISH FEAST

Star Bright!

In November, dozens of brave and talented kids hit the stage at Higher Ground in South Burlington to try out for our third annual Spectacular Spectacular Spectacular, a talent show for Vermont’s rising stars. Judges were faced with some tough decisions but ultimately chose 17 acts for the main event. See these dynamic performers sing, dance, play instruments and literally do backflips on Saturday, December 10, at Higher Ground. The show starts at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are just $7 in advance at highergroundmusic.com, and $10 the day of the show. Kids 6 and under get in free. See you there!

Hayden Smith, 10, Berlin PURRING OVER PIZZA

Anna Luther, 6, Jericho BIRTHDAY CAT & BIG BALLOONS

Amelia Foran, 8, Colchester SMOOTH SKATING

Ella Bengenon, 7, Jericho

6 to 8

EATING & DANCING

Ollie Partington, 3, West Topsham PARTY TIME

Shea St. Peter, 10, Huntington NAUGHTY CAT

Isidore Malzac, 5, Bridgeport

“I Love Cats or Me” June Yates-Rusch, 8 BRISTOL

RED ROSABELLA

Isabella Heinz, 5, Burlington BUSTING OUT THE TUNES

Amelia Van Dreische, 10, Burlington KIDSVT.COM

PERFECT PUMPKIN PIE

Hadley Edgerley, 4, Georgia KITTY IN THE CAKE SHOP

Brianne Gallas, 9, Milton

TOP TITLES

9 to 12

“STILL FULL FROM HALLOWEEN”

Lucia Bird Matarazzo, 11, South Hero

“Tur Ki-Ki” Natalie Kneeland, 10

“STARRY NIGHT EATS WITH HAPPY CAT”

LOWELL

“MORGAN LOVES FOOD”

Ellie Keach, 5, Charlotte

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Find this month’s coloring contest on page 46. The deadline is January 15.

KIDS VT

Naya Vaughan, 7, South Hero

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

OVER THE RAINBOW

Jammie Bush, 6, Barre

EXHIBITION NOW OPEN

THE

BEAT B Y A L I S ON N OVA K

Champ Lane at ECHO

EARLY LEARNING

Science for All

Norwich, VT | Open daily 10 am – 5 pm

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GUIDE 11/15/16

little

citizen

French-language market and a tree house, plus twice-daily science programs taught by ECHO staff in the space. In partnership with Let’s Grow Kids, the Greater Burlington YMCA, the Boys & Girls Club and Burlington Children’s Space, the new grant money will allow ECHO to train early educators around the state to teach STEM concepts — like the ones taught in Champ Lane — in their own spaces, says ECHO’s executive director Phelan Fretz. Every young child is a scientist, “trying to figure out how the world works,” Fretz says. “Our job is to guide them.”

GIVING

From the Heart

KIDSVT.COM

For the past few months, a group of South Burlington High School students have been hard at work writing press releases and contacting businesses in preparation for the seventh annual BEST EVER COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE, which will take place on Tuesday, January 24. On that day, the teen organizers will arrive early to set up a sign-in area, put out snacks for blood donors and decorate the space in this year’s Candy Land theme.

They’ll also run an hourly raffle featuring local prizes. In addition to addressing the blood shortage in Vermont, the student-led drive aims to raise awareness about the importance of blood donations for cancer patients. The issue hits home for the South Burlington community: their high school principal, Patrick Burke, is currently on leave while being treated for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. “If you know somebody who might benefit from that blood, or have a more personal connection to the cause, you’re more likely to help and donate,” explained SBHS senior and blood-drive chair Mara Senecal-Albrecht.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 KIDS VT

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Vermont’s budding young scientists are getting a boost from the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. The Burlington science center and lake aquarium recently received an EARLY LEARNING INITIATIVE grant of nearly $150,000 from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Over the next two years, ECHO will create curricula, materials and training for educators who work with the preschool set. Last February, ECHO opened Champ Lane, a play space for children ages 6 and under 10:41 AMthat provides rich learning opportunities through handson activities including a water table, a multilevel boat, a

To learn more about the Institute of Museum and Library Services’ EARLY LEARNING INITIATIVE, visit imls.gov/issues/national-issues/early-learning.

SBHS’s blood drive committee

20 Church StreeT Burlington 802 . 489 . 599 3

*

South Burlington’s BEST EVER COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE will be held on Tuesday, January 24, from noon to 6 p.m., at St. John Vianney Parish in South Burlington.

For more information, contact the Red Rebel Committee at redrebels2017@gmail.com.

For blood donation guidelines, visit redcrossblood.org.

EAT. LEARN. PLAY.

SAFETY

Miles to Go students can drive the Drivers distracted by most phone-free miles their smartphones cause — the contest is open thousands of accidents to any Vermont high each year. Terry Goguen, school interested in a 2016 Middlebury participating. Money College grad, came To learn more about up with a novel way to JOYRYDE, visit joyryde. will be awarded to a charity of the winning address that problem. In co or facebook.com/ school’s choosing.

2014, he created the app joyrydeapp. To learn Montpelier High JOYRYDE that rewards more about TextLess School principal text- and phone-free Live More, visit Michael McRaith is driving. “Ryders,” as the textlesslivemore.org. planning a special week app’s users are called, at his school in December focused receive points for every text-free on the issue, in conjunction with mile they drive. They can redeem national nonprofit TextLess Live those points for rewards donated by More. McRaith himself uses the app businesses — currently things like almost every day on his commute coffee or the chance to win a free from South Burlington to Montpelier graduation trip. Rice Memorial High and says it’s helped him avoid picking School and Montpelier High School up his phone on the drive. He’s hoping are encouraging students to use more students and staff will sign on to JoyRyde. Both schools will compete use it in the coming months. in a statewide challenge to see whose

SHOPPING

ORTHODONTICS

DRS. DRS.PETERSON, PETERSON,RYAN RYAN & & EATON EATON

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice.

Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have two to three years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile—that feels great, too.

Braces for Children & Adults — champlainortho.net ST. ALBANS OFFICE 80 Mapleville Depot 527-7100 k4t-ChamplainOrtho0215.indd 1

WILLISTON OFFICE 277 Blair Park Road 878-5323 1/16/15 10:54 AM

Braces for Children and Adults

Change of Plans

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 KIDS VT

In September, Kids VT reported that Zutano, the popular Vermont-based kids’ clothing company, was closing its retail store in Montpelier to focus on online sales. As a thank-you to customers, the 18-year-old store held a huge sale in September and October featuring many of its vintage styles and patterns. And then, the owners changed their minds. “After the tremendous outpouring of support and love that we received from the local community, we just simply couldn’t bear to say goodbye,” explained Zutano cofounder Michael Belenky in an email.

After undergoing a renovation, the little store on the corner of State and Main reopened at the end of November as the ZUTANO OUTLET STORE. Customers will find the same clothes at discounted prices — making dressing kids in whimsical prints and cozy fabrics a little more affordable.

Burlington Williston St. Albans 862-6721 878-5323 527-7100 www.champlainortho.net

KIDSVT.COM

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The ZUTANO OUTLET STORE is located at 79 Main Street in Montpelier. Visit facebook.com/zutanocompanystore for more information.

Your child. Your orthodontist.

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Q ONE TO WATCH

2017 e Lake Adventur Camps

B Y A L I SON N OVA K

Aspiring Aviator A motivated young Cadet takes to the sky ALISON NOVAK

A WIDE SMILE spreads over Imani Kowalewski’s face when she talks about her first solo flight last August.

It happened at a summer flight academy in Maine sponsored by the Civil Air Patrol, a civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force that helps to promote aerospace education and ! p m a re C provide emergency services such Winter Adventu as search-and-rescue missions and Explore winter, disaster relief.

Learn to survive in the cold, On the final day of the weeklong Follow animal tracks, camp, Imani practiced taking off, Play in the snow, flying and landing with her instructor Drink hot cocoa! in a Cessna 172. After the fourth landing, the instructor told her to return to the ramp. “I was thinking, Aw, I didn’t get my solo,” she recalled. “I was kind of bummed.” Instead, he signed her logbook then jumped out of the plane, reminding her, “Once you take off, you have to make the landing.”

(802) 475-2022 The 18-minute flight went off without a hitch and ended with what her instructor deemed “a really nice landing.” To celebrate, she and the Untitled-2 1 12/1/16 10:11 AMother successful soloists had buckets of water dumped on their heads as the Top Gun song “Danger Zone” played.

Imani’s first exposure to aviation came when, at 9 years old, she attended a day camp through STARBASE Vermont, a local STEM education program. While there, she tried out a computerized flight simulator. After the instructor told her it was impossible to make a 747 List your events for do a loop-de-loop, she went on to do two of them, and her passion for flying free in the Kids VT took off. monthly calendar.

Since 2014, Imani has been part of CAP’s Cadet program, which Submit your info serves young people ages 12 and up.

Homeschooled since kindergarten,

by January 15 online Imani found out about the Cadet at kidsvt.com or to program through a friend and says she calendar@kidsvt.com was drawn in because of its focus on aerospace education. The program, which has 85 participants under age 18 in Vermont, and more than 24,000 nationally, also teaches physical fitness, teamwork, leadership, search and rescue, and radio communications skills.

Cadets are entitled to five poweredaircraft flights — the CAP has the world’s largest fleet of single-engine

Imani at the Civil Air Patrol Vermont Wing headquarters in South Burlington

February 20-24

NAME: IMANI KOWALEWSKI AGE: 17 TOWN: UNDERHILL

www.lcmm.org

CALENDAR

8v-calendar.indd 1

Imani finished her high school coursework at age 16, and last year earned 27 college credits through the Community College of Vermont.

Currently, she’s a second lieutenant in the Cadets and serves as an officer to around 20 younger participants.

She oversees drills, creates aerospacerelated lesson plans and activities, and teaches a leadership class. She also works at fast-food chain Wendy’s more than 30 hours a week to pay for her flying lessons, which are discounted because of her Cadet status.

She hopes to have her pilot’s license — which requires passing both a written and practical test — before her 18th birthday, at the end of May. If all goes according to plan, in June she’ll begin Plebe Summer at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., a training program that will prepare her for studying there.

While at the Naval Academy, she’ll pursue aerospace engineering so she can learn not just how to fly a plane, but why planes fly the way they do.

After graduation, she hopes to have a long military career as a Marine pilot.

“The goal,” she says, “is definitely to never stop flying.” K

“One to Watch” shines a light on a young Vermonter who is going places. Know a local child or teen who’s recently done something amazing? Nominate him or her at kidsvt.com/vermont/kidsvtonetowatch/page.

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KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

Planning a kids event?

Cessnas in the world — as well as five glider flights, at no cost to them. The goal is to expose them to aviation, though it’s up to each cadet whether he or she wants to take the next step and train to become a pilot at age 16.

Imani went for it.

She started weekly flying lessons with Chuck Webster, a CAP member and Federal Aviation Administration-certified flight instructor, in September. They leave from Burlington International Airport for two-hour stints in one of the CAP’s Cessna 182s, a slightly heavier and more powerful plane than the one in which she soloed. They often practice takeoffs and landings at the less-busy Plattsburgh International Airport or Springfield’s Hartness State Airport.

And they work on situational awareness, or how to respond in different scenarios.

Imani has “the kind of personality that’s going to work out well as a pilot,” says Webster. “She’s just a very motivated, enthusiastic person … She’s very calm and self-possessed, very poised and in control of herself.”

She has fun when she’s flying, he adds, but never gets “rattled or overly excited.”

12/2/16 10:14 AM

Q FIT FAMILIES

BY SARA H T UFF DUN N

EAT. LEARN. PLAY.

Making Tracks

Ten spots for family cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

Rikert Nordic Center in Ripton

a sledding hill and more than 35 kilometers of skiing and snowshoe trails, make this farmhouse and surrounding land a must-see in winter. catamountoutdoorfamilycenter.com CRAFTSBURY OUTDOOR CENTER, CRAFTSBURY Hot cocoa and cookies reward cross-country skiers and snowshoers who make it to the Charley’s Cabin warming hut at this royal recreation site in the Northeast Kingdom, which offers 85 kilometers of trails.

Snowmaking, meanwhile, ensures plenty of white stuff throughout the winter. craftsbury.com

KINGDOM TRAILS, EAST BURKE A new Nordic center awaits visitors to these venerable trails, which offer 15 kilometers of groomed surfaces for cross-country skiing and 30 kilometers for snowshoeing. Look out for wonderful views of Willoughby Gap and what’s been called “the prettiest mile in Vermont” on Darling Hill. kingdomtrails.org MOUNTAIN TOP INN & RESORT, CHITTENDEN With more than 30 years of continuous operation, this is the oldest commercial ski touring center in the U.S. It offers 60 kilometers of

TRAPP FAMILY LODGE, STOWE The hills are alive with skiers and snowshoers at the singing von Trapps’ 2,500-acre resort, where 37 miles of groomed trails and 62 miles of backcountry trails offer panoramic views of Stowe. The new, familyfriendly Bierhall serves as base camp; fuel up on bratwurst before skiing or snowshoeing up to the Slayton Pasture Cabin to warm up by the fire. trappfamily.com INTERVALE CENTER, BURLINGTON In winter, a short but sweet three-mile cross-country ski trail weaves through Burlington’s snow-covered farms.

Wintervale, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on February 12 and March 12, offers free ski and snowshoe rentals, food and drink for purchase, and kids’ activities. intervale.org K

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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.

KIDS VT

CATAMOUNT OUTDOOR FAMILY CENTER, WILLISTON Killer views of Mount Mansfield and Camel’s Hump, along with

SLEEPY HOLLOW INN SKI & BIKE CENTER, HUNTINGTON This inn really wakes up in the winter, when 35 kilometers of cross-country and snowshoeing trails come alive with kids and elite racers alike.

Consider making the pilgrimage to Butternut Cabin, one mile from the main lodge, where families can spend the night (must reserve in advance). skisleepyhollow.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

BOLTON VALLEY, BOLTON While the masses schuss down the alpine slopes at this ski area, savvy locals know to head for the 100-kilometer nordic trail system, which includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails — then hit the hot tub and pool at the Sports Center (membership required). boltonvalley.com

RIKERT NORDIC CENTER, RIPTON Slicing through the Bread Loaf Campus of Middlebury College, Rikert Nordic Center has more than 55 kilometers of trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fat biking.

Look out for the Middlebury College Panthers training and racing on the Tormondsen Family Race Course and for Robert Frost’s summer cabin, deep in the Green Mountain National Forest. rikertnordic.com

KIDSVT.COM

BLUEBERRY HILL SKI CENTER, GOSHEN This ski and snowshoe center, located in the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, makes for a marvelous spot to explore 50 kilometers of trails. Drop off your donation ($10 suggested) at the ski center, then return there for hot soup when you’re sufficiently chilled. blueberryhillinn.com/ski

trails and wide-open meadows for comfortable cruising. It also offers horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice skating on a 740-acre lake and snowmobiling. mountaintopinn.com

COURTESY OF RIKERT NORDIC CENTER

WHEN WINTER gives you cabin fever, head for a different cabin — one nestled in the woods, accessible only by cross-country skis or snowshoes. Gliding and clomping through the snow is the perfect activity for families who never caught the downhill-skiing bug. It’s also a total-body workout, burning as many as 1,000 calories per hour — take that, sugar cookies. BabyBjörns, fleece buntings and ski trailers allow infants to get in on the action, too, while fat biking offers a new option for pedaling through the powder.

Below are 10 family-friendly spots for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in Vermont, all of which offer rental gear. Once you’re hooked, you can find your own setup at Burlington’s Skirack and Outdoor Gear Exchange, or South Burlington’s Alpine Shop, among other retail locations. So bundle up and get into the snowy woods. From investigating animal tracks to enjoying the peaceful, frost-covered landscape, an outdoor adventure may be the perfect way to keep the winter blues away.

Talent Development Institute Summer 2017

For advanced students entering grades 4-9 who want to have fun while learning!

Johnson State College June 18-24 & June 25-July 1

Q DESTINATION RECREATION B Y A L I SON N OVA K

Vintage Photography Emporium 2 Church Street, Burlington

“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

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KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

MY DAUGHTER, Mira, has always loved dressing up. In her early years she traipsed around the house in fairy For more info and electronic version of wings, princess dresses and plastic high brochure, please go to vermontgifted.org heels. Now that she’s a mature fourth and tdivermont.com. Or contact Lucy Bogue grader, she’s more interested in purses, at lucybogue@yahoo.com or 802-658-9941. scarves, trench coats and ankle boots.

The girl loves fashion.

So when I peeked into the large store16t-TDI1216.indd 1VERMONT’S PREMIER 11/29/16 1:18 PM front windows of Vintage Photography DANCE APPAREL & Emporium — an old-timey photo studio at FOOTWEAR RETAILER the top of the Church Street Marketplace that opened in August — and spied racks of dresses, rows of sparkly shoes and accessories galore, I knew a motherdaughter visit was in order.

I checked out the studio’s website and was pleased to see that it’s a locally based, family-run business. I sent an email to the address on the site to make sure kids’ costumes were available, and to see if I needed an appointment. A prompt reply let me know there were plenty of smaller-size clothing options and that we could just walk in.

When we arrived, at 2:30 p.m. on Dance Apparel & Footwear a Sunday, one family of adults was finishing up and another group was on Don’t forget the dancers in your life. the way. A tattooed woman in a vintage We’ve got everything a dancer needs dress asked us to come back in an hour. or wants this holiday season!

Before we left, we perused the costumes ~ and photo books for inspiration. Mira Start a LINES FOR THE BODY wishlist ... was beyond excited as she browsed the gift certificates available showroom full of fur stoles, vintage OWNED & OPERATED BY DEDICATED PROFESSIONAL DANCERS jewelry, Western garb and wedding dresses. We decided we’d go for glamour LINES FOR THE BODY and dress like flappers, then left for shopping and a snack on Church Street.

2035 Essex Rd. (Rt 2A North) Williston, VT 05495 When we returned, the woman linesforthebody.com working there helped us pick out At The Back of Honey Thai Restaurant Parking Lot outfits. Mira chose a satiny emerald green dress with fun fringe at the top.

802.878.8988 I went with a short black number with tiered layers of fringe. We ducked into a k8v-LinesFortheBody1114.indd 1 10/29/14 9:36 AMspacious dressing room to change into the frocks, which could be adjusted to accommodate different sizes. Then we picked out the perfect accessories: a cropped jacket with fur, short gloves, black heels and a beaded clutch for me; a (We like you, too!) grey fake-fur shawl, long gloves, maroon » facebook.com/kidsvt crushed velvet heels and a metallic pouch for Mira. We capped off our looks with feathered headbands and multiple strands of pearls. I’m not usually into dressing up, but it was pretty fun having free reign of a fabulous costume box.

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Alison and Mira Novak

When we were sufficiently adorned, it was time for the photos. For a $10-per-person fee, we were entitled to four different poses. There are several different backdrops to choose from: a parlor; a frontier set; a saloon; and — best suited to our outfits — a vintage car straight out of the Roaring Twenties.

Mira and I mugged for the camera while the woman took pictures, occasionally adjusting our fringe and positioning our hands.

Since the photos are digital, we were able to view them right away. In looking at my stiff, awkward appearance compared to Mira’s natural adorableness, I realized I could definitely take some lessons from my daughter.

We couldn’t agree on which pose we liked best, so we chose two sepia-toned 8x10s, at $10 a pop. I’m not sure the photos will go on our mantel, but that’s OK; it was more about the process than the product. Mira said it was one of the best things she’s ever done. She’s already talking about celebrating her spring birthday there and bringing my husband, Jeff, and son, Theo, for a family photo session. As for me, I just enjoyed having some frivolous fun with my glamorous girl. K

DETAILS Vintage Photography Emporium is open from noon-8 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and noon-midnight, Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit vintagephotovt.com or call 489-5975.

PROS • Central location, close to shops and restaurants • Fun indoor option during colder months • The studio is offering photos with Santa through Christmas Eve.

CONS • Some of the props and outfits — like Jim Beam bottles, cigarettes, guns and revealing outfits — are inappropriate for children, so parents should be involved in the selection process.

• At $10 per photo — on top of the $10-per-person sitting fee — it can get a bit pricey.

Local parents review a family-friendly attraction each month in “Destination Recreation.”

Got a spot you’d like us to feature? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

✱ BOOKWORMS

Inspiring Reads Need a pick-me-up? A little inspiration? Grab a book.

We asked two local booksellers — Kristen Eaton of Phoenix Books in Burlington and Essex, and Jane Knight of Bear Pond Books in Montpelier — to recommend their favorite uplifting children’s books.

Eaton recommends:

A Child of Books

BY OLIVER JEFFERS AND SAM WINSTON

“This absolutely stunning book is a call to adventure, imagination, questioning and creative thinking — and a celebration of storytelling.”

Grades K-12

I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes her Mark

A gift for the kids.

A Vermont tax credit for you.

BY DEBBIE LEVY; ILLUSTRATED BY ELIZABETH BADDELEY

“This compelling and empowering biography of Ruth Bader Ginsburg provides a wonderful opportunity to talk about having meaningful discussions and about the power of dissent.”

Knight recommends:

Gift-giving season is a great time to help save for college.

Grades 3-5

Beautiful

BY STACY MCANULTY; ILLUSTRATED BY JOANNE LEW-VRIETHOFF

Grades Pre K-3

The Inquisitor’s Tale

vheip.org/529gift 1-800-637-5860

Grades 5-10

KIDS VT

VHEIP is sponsored by the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, a public nonprofit established by the Vermont legislature in 1965 to help Vermont students and families plan and pay for college. VHEIP investment management is provided by Intuition College Savings Solutions, LLC. Consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing and read the disclosure booklet (available online at vheip.org or by calling 1-800-637-5860). Investments in VHEIP are neither insured nor guaranteed, and there is the risk of investment loss.

Before investing in a 529 plan, you should consider whether the state you or your designated benificiary reside in or have taxable income in has a 529 plan that offers favorable state income tax or other benefits that are available only if you invest in that state’s 529 plan.

Illustration © Doug Ross

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Open an account or give a gift online today.

BY ADAM GIDWITZ; ILLUSTRATED

BY HATEM ALY

“A medieval tale set during the Inquisition in France that manages to be both a literary meditation on religion and a hilarious, adventurepacked romp with minstrels, knights, murderous bandits and farting dragons. One of my favorite kids’ novels of the year.”

Give a gift by December 31 to claim your Vermont tax credit for 2016!

KIDSVT.COM

“This picture book takes stereotypes of gender and female beauty and flips them to show you what true beauty really is. A wonderful gift book for all the young girls in your life.”

With Vermont’s state-sponsored 529 college savings program, you can open an account with just $25 or give any amount to a friend’s or family member’s account. And the Vermont Higher Education Investment Plan is the only college savings plan that qualifies families for a 10% Vermont income tax credit on contributions.

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Recommendations compiled by Alison Novak Untitled-36 1

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Q BALANCING ACT

BY JESSICA LARA TICKTIN

Creative Structure An architect and a teacher talk values, flexibility and laundry

OLIVER PARINI

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KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

ENTER THE BRIGHT ORANGE FRONT DOOR of Judy Klima and Anna Thelemarck’s home in Burlington’s Old North End, and two things are immediately clear: this family values art, and there’s a lot of joy here.

Framed children’s artwork and dozens of family photographs hang on the walls, and laughter fills the space.

A gray, L-shaped couch — occupied by a sleeping black-and-white cat — offers a cozy place to sit. The house is welcoming, warm and lively; it feels like a meeting place for families and community members. Thelemarck confirms that assessment. As her sons get older, she says, she hopes their home will continue to be a social hub, where teenagers can gather and connect.

From her office at the Karma Bird House in downtown Burlington, the more introverted Thelemarck, a licensed architect, spends her days helping homeowners and businesses On the morning routine: improve their living and work spaces.

JUDY: It’s usually the early risers — She enjoys the flexibility that owning Anders, our older son, and I — who get her own business provides. Last sumup first, around 6:30. Lately, we haven’t mer, she was able to take time off so the been sleeping well, and our stress has family could travel through Sweden for been waking us up at 5! Sometimes I like five weeks. to come down before him so I have a little As the arts integration coach at the Integrated Arts Academy at H.O. Wheel- bit of time by myself, but he usually hears me and comes down. Kuba is the longest er in Burlington, the gregarious Klima spends the school year bringing together sleeper, and Anna usually gets up a little bit after us, right? teachers, local artists and arts organizations to enrich the magnet school’s curANNA: During the workweek I am the late riculum. During the summer, she runs a person. On the weekends it flip-flops, two-week arts camp in and I am the early riser and the family’s backyard you sleep in. But during barn. the week, you usually get In November, Klima the breakfast stuff and the was named Vermont lunch stuff — you get all that Arts Educator of the in motion and I am upstairs Year. She’ll travel to getting them dressed and Washington, D.C., in ready.

2017 to be honored, JUDY: Well, there is that along with other teacholder kid thing now where JUDY KLIMA ers from across the Anders gets ready on his country. As dedicated own mostly, but usually I as Klima is to her job, am the downstairs person and you are she is equally passionate about being a the upstairs person. I work at the school mother. the boys go to — well, now only Kuba But she doesn’t take herself too seri— so it used to be all three of us going ously: Both Klima’s and Thelemarck’s to the same place, but now Anna and thoughts on parenting are punctuated Anders go together and Kuba and I go with humor. together.

Someone told me that families with systems work the best, so we came up with a system.

Moms: Judy Klima (right), 56, arts integration coach at the Integrated Arts Academy at H.O. Wheeler; Anna Thelemarck (left), 48, owner, Struktur architectural design firm

On having a system: ANNA: You tell me, JUDY: Before the school ‘Don’t fold them like year started, we sat that!’ or ‘You are putdown for a few hours ting way too many and talked about how clothes in the washing Sons: Anders, 11; Kuba, 9 we could make our lives machine!’ [They both run smoother this year. laugh.]

We made all these plans, and we actually typed it all up! We came up with an On making meals: agenda. Someone told me that families ANNA: We have a meal plan in the with systems work the best, so we came system, so you don’t even have to think! up with a system. Our theme for the year It’s going to be chicken on this night; it’s is “personal responsibility.” going to be pasta another night. There’s ANNA: We set up a board with things for variety with it, but it’s easy to shop. It them to do, clothespins for them to flip simplifies things. On Monday night, I on and off if they’ve done it or not. cook with Kuba, and on Wednesday it’s Anders’ turn [to cook with me].

JUDY: I printed it out, too, and put it on the fridge. And we have a family meeting every week, so I even glued it into the family meeting book!

ANNA: There’s a structure in place, so even if you get off the structure for a bit, you know what to come back to. We revisit it every week.

On laundry duty: JUDY: Well, mostly I do the laundry, but then I get to a point where I’ve been doing it so long that I’m like, ‘I’m done with laundry!’ and then Anna will take over.

And then eventually I say, ‘No! You can’t do it anymore!’

On the seasonal division of labor: ANNA: The time of the year impacts our schedule dramatically. Judy is a teacher, so when the kids have off, she has off. When she’s in school, I’m the “on” parent. So if the kids are sick, I’m home with them. If the kids have to go to the doctor, I’m the one who takes them.

In the summer, it’s reversed and Judy is with them and I work longer hours.

When the kids were born, we made a conscious decision to take time with the kids over money. We always defer to that as our guiding thing. K

In “Balancing Act,” we ask Vermont parents about the intersection of work and family life. Know parents we should interview? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

✱ THE ART OF

BY BRETT S TAN CIU

EAT. LEARN. PLAY.

Sign-Making

BRETT STANCIU

WANT TO GET KIDS EXCITED about art? Have them create an official sign for their school. That strategy worked one November morning at Craftsbury Elementary School. When Ceilidh Galloway-Kane invited the third and fourth grade class to brainstorm ideas for a welcome sign in the parking lot, encouraging them to think visually about their school environment, their hands shot up.

One student suggested that the sign show the woods behind the building.

Others offered everything from the garden to the playground structure to the cafeteria to the swings. GallowayKane, director of The Art House Gallery and School, a nonprofit arts organization in Craftsbury, wrote it all down on a chalkboard.

Everyone contributed, “so everyone’s little piece of the puzzle can be part of the sign,” explained their teacher, Tule Fogg.

Once the board was filled, kids were charged with creating pictures based on their ideas. They got to work with colored pencils and large sheets of white paper while Galloway-Kane circulated around the room. She paused and asked one student to consider the proportions of his greenhouse drawing. Nearby, a girl illustrated a library shelf with books in rainbow colors, then added horses, cows and turtles to their spines. Another boy quietly filled

Craftsbury students Lilian Allen and Sage Sweeney

his sheet with a detailed school bus, complete with students waving in the windows.

The exercise was part of a larger, community-wide endeavor. In 2015, Craftsbury engaged in a visioning project facilitated by the Vermont Council on Rural Development. It was designed to strengthen rural citizens’ connections to their communities and provide resources to achieve collective goals.

That effort revealed a need for safer roads in the rural town, which has a

Everyone’s little piece of the puzzle can be part of the sign.

TULE FOGG year-round population of just over 1,000 residents. So, with a grant from the University of Vermont’s Center for Rural Studies, the town commissioned The Art House to improve, and increase, the community’s signage. One proposed sign depicts a horse-drawn

wagon and the word “slow,” to alert motorists to agricultural traffic from Sterling College’s Sterling Farm.

High school students from Craftsbury Academy’s wood shop will remake the roadside “Welcome to Craftsbury” signs; middle school students and senior citizens from the Craftsbury Community Care Center will be involved, as well. Pop-up classes at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center, Sterling College and The Art House will encourage community members to think of images that represent their town. Stations will also be set up at the local general store and public library so anyone can contribute ideas, establishing what Galloway-Kane describes as a state of “constant creativity.”

In March, The Art House will curate a show of community artwork, some of which will be used in creating the signs.

While the goal is to create a safer environment, the project is really “about the process,” Galloway-Kane stressed. The hope is that, in the end, the town will gain a deeper understanding of its community members — from first graders to senior citizens — whose perspectives aren’t often included in town planning. And the signs will provide a warm welcome to locals and visitors alike.

To learn more about The Art House and their sign project, visit vermontarthouse.org.

“The Art of” spotlights creative skills that enrich kids’ lives. Got a class or teacher to recommend? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com

Weekdays at 10 am

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

A new show on Vermont PBS that explores the natural undersea world with themes of diversity, individuality, interconnectedness and the fun of learning and discovery.

KIDSVT.COM

Introducing...

KIDS VT

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Q CHECKUP WIT H DR. L E W IS FIRST

What are the new sleep-safety guidelines for babies?

FOR ANYONE CARING FOR AN INFANT, sleep is a major topic of conversation and concern. In October, the American Academy of Pediatrics updated its guidelines for the safest sleep practices for newborns and infants.

They aim to prevent what are now called sudden unexpected infant deaths. Sleep-related causes include sudden infant death syndrome, as well as crib entrapment, asphyxiation, strangulation and metabolic diseases.

We asked Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital, to summarize the new guidelines and advise parents and caregivers on how to ensure that their babies sleep as safely as possible.

KIDS VT: We understand the new AAP sleep guidelines are as simple as ABC, where each of those letters represents a key point from the guidelines. Let’s begin with A. What does that stand for?

LEWIS FIRST: The A is a reminder that babies need to sleep Alone and not with other people next to them (such as with a parent in their bed). The AAP is very supportive of co-sleeping, by which I mean room-sharing, for at least the first six months and, ideally, the first year of a baby’s life. But recent studies have shown that sharing a bed with an infant in the first year of life significantly increases the risk of an infant experiencing a sudden unexpected infant death, usually by entrapment, strangulation or asphyxiation.

About 3,500 babies die nationally from sleep-related causes annually.

The risk of an unexpected infant death is even higher in premature or preterm infants who bed-share in homes where there is smoking, or where parents have been using medications or substances like alcohol and illicit drugs that can sedate a parent, or where an infant sleeps with a nonparental caregiver or other children.

KVT: What about in-bed devices that purportedly make bed-sharing safer, like co-sleepers?

LF: Those devices have no formal, well-documented studies to endorse them or prove that they work, so the AAP cannot recommend them as being safe for a baby at the present time.

KVT: What are the benefits of having an infant in the same room as the parent(s) for up to one year?

LF: Basically, having a parent in close proximity to the baby increases the parent’s awareness of any unusual sounds, activity or stillness. We can’t pin it down, but it appears that the first six months — since SIDS typically

into the room for six months to a year, especially when the baby is waking up many times during the night and one or both parents have to work in the morning. Yet attending to your baby in the same room may actually ensure that parents get back to sleep more easily, since they don’t have to get up and go to another room to check on their baby every time they hear him or her making a noise that worries them in the middle of the night.

KVT: What does the B in ABC stand for?

LF: The B is a reminder to always put infants and newborns down on their Back. The nationwide Back to Sleep campaign has made a major dent in reducing the incidence of SIDS. Once your baby starts to roll, by 3 or 4 months of age, they probably have enough body control to be out of the SIDS danger zone. Parents should still put them on their back at night even if they are able to roll over, but don’t lose sleep if you wake up in the morning and find them on their belly.

The goal is to start babies on their backs to sleep at night and give them “tummy time” for play and development while awake during the daytime.

The first six months is prime time to remain vigilant about having close proximity to the baby. occurs from 1 to 4 months of age — and optimally, the first year, is prime time to remain vigilant about having close proximity to the baby. Some parents are taking issue with bringing the baby

KVT: And the C? LF: C stands for having the baby sleep on a firm-surface Crib — not on a couch, recliner, adult bed, cushion or other soft surface — which should be kept free of toys, blankets, stuffed animals and anything with a string or cord. If a parent falls asleep in a bed or other unsafe infant sleep surface while feeding a baby and then wakes up with the baby on or next to them, the parent should immediately get up, put the baby on a safe sleep surface and then resume sleeping.

KVT: What is the current recommendation on swaddling infants?

LF: Swaddling is recommended for the first two months of life only. It can certainly calm down an infant and promote sleep. But sudden unexpected infant deaths have occurred when babies have rolled over in their swaddle onto their tummies. As soon as a baby can roll over, stop swaddling. Babies can get caught in a situation where they can’t breathe because the swaddle is too tight, or they can’t use their hips to roll back over, so their faces become pushed into a sleep surface and they cannot move out of danger. K

INTERVIEW COMPILED AND CONDENSED BY KEN PICARD

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KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

Got health- and wellness-related questions? Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.

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Q MEALTIME BY A ST RID HE DB O R L AGUE PHOTOS: ASTRID HEDBOR LAGUE

The Return of Light: Swedish St. Lucia Rolls WINTER IN VERMONT means lots of darkness. In December, when the sun sets just after 4 p.m., it’s hard to believe we’ll ever return to bright summer days. Yet our descent into blackness is nothing compared to Sweden’s.

I spent my junior year of high school there, living with my father’s cousin and his family. In the middle of winter, even in the central part of the country, the sun peeks above the horizon at 10 a.m. and descends again at 2 p.m. Daylight hours are usually overcast, gray and hazy. When the sun did make a rare appearance, teachers sometimes stopped their lessons and allowed everyone to sit by the window and soak up some precious vitamin D. It’s no surprise, then, that the Swedes mark the gradual return of light with a celebration called St. Lucia’s Day, on December 13. It originated as a pagan festival and, when Christianity came to Sweden, became associated with St. Lucia, a girl who is said to have secretly brought food to hiding Christians in the catacombs of Rome. She wore a crown of candles on her head so that she could find her way in the dark.

Today, St. Lucia’s Day is celebrated in Sweden through songs and processions, where girls and boys carry candles, and one special girl — the Lucia — wears a crown of candles and greenery.

Rolls ready for the oven

I was lucky enough to be part of this celebration and learned many Swedish Christmas songs in preparation. We sang for four days, bringing a parade of light to local businesses, schools and nursing homes.

Along with music, we brought lovely St. Lucia rolls. This sweet bread is also called lussekatter, or Lucia’s cats. If you use your imagination, you can see the shape of a curled-up feline in each roll.

The most essential and unique ingredient in this recipe is saffron — thin, red-golden threads harvested from the saffron crocus. It lends an earthy, slightly pungent, almost perfume-y quality to the bread. Yes, saffron is the most expensive spice in the world, and I’ve seen recipes that add just a touch of yellow food coloring to mimic its color. But, in my opinion, you can’t properly make these rolls without it.

Luckily a little saffron goes a long way, and you can find affordable options at the grocery store.

I use a bread machine to make my dough, but the method I describe below does not require one. Some people stud these rolls with raisins and top them with frosting or chunky pearl sugar. My family likes them best unadorned.

They bring a little light to these dark days. K

St. Lucia rolls

Shaping the dough

St. Lucia Rolls (Lussekatter) Makes 24 rolls

INGREDIENTS: 1/2 teaspoon crushed saffron

1/3 cup sugar

1 cup milk, slightly warmed

3 1/2 cups flour

1/3 cup melted butter

5 teaspoons yeast

1 egg

DIRECTIONS:

3.

Combine the remaining ingredients in a mixing bowl, then add the milk mixture. Knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes, or with a mixer for about seven minutes, until it is smooth and pliable.

Punch the dough down, then separate it into about 24 portions.

Roll each portion into a rope, then coil into the traditional S-shape.

5.

Place on a baking sheet, with about two inches between each roll.

Cover with a towel, then allow to rise for about 30 minutes.

6.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then bake for 10 minutes.

7.

Serve with coffee or tea. Flaming head attire optional.

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“Mealtime” is a feature about families and food. Got a topic you’d like us to explore? Email it to ideas@kidsvt.com.

KIDS VT

Place the dough in a slightly greased bowl and cover with a towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise for about an hour, until it is quite puffy.

4.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

2.

Add the saffron to the warm milk, allowing it to steep for a few minutes until the milk is golden in color. Add the melted butter and the egg to the saffron milk, and whisk gently.

KIDSVT.COM

1.

Rocking a Winter Wonderland Family-friendly fun at Stowe’s Adventure Center

BY SARAH TUFF DUNN

I

Auto-belays — devices that take up ’ll never forget my first look, the slack for a climber, eliminating circa 1986, at Stowe Mountain the need for a partner — allow the Resort’s most famous feature: Adventure Center to accommodate the fabled Front Four trails of slews of climbers. Kids as young as National, Goat, Liftline and 18 months have taken to the wall, Starr. I was quaking in my rear-entry according to Davis. ski boots as a young girl.

Two hours of climbing, including But my daughter, now 9, will have equipment and instruction, costs a different memory. She’ll never $26 for ages 12 and under, $30 for 13 forget her first look at the resort’s and up. Private lessons 40-foot-high Elephant are available, too. “We’re Head Tower, riddled with introducing the sport to a handholds and footholds. lot of people who’ve never It’s as artificial as the tried it before,” Davis said.

Front Four are natural, “So we’ve set a variety of but both are equally gnarly different routes — very attractions. easy routes for never“People come in, and evers and challenging they can’t believe it,” routes for more experisaid Peter Davis. He’s the enced climbers.” specialized recreation PETER DAVIS, STOWE ROCKS Dillon, my daughter, manager at Stowe Rocks, managed to scramble up part of the sprawling new Elephant Head in less $25 million Adventure time than it took me to Center that’s redefining whip out my iPhone for an Instagram how skiers and riders spend their shot. She was motivated not only off-slope time at the resort. “It really by a sense of competition with her is the gateway to adventure at Stowe,” 8-year-old brother, Harper, but also by he added. the instructor’s encouraging words: During my family’s recent visit “Don’t slow down! You got this! You to the resort, we watched couples can do this! Keep bringing your feet and groups of buddies gear up for up!” the ZipTour Adventure and TreeTop For his part, as soon as Harper Adventure. Those attractions have finished one route, he was off to try since shut down for the winter, but another. A rapidly growing third what remains open is just as lofty: a grader, he often complains of hunger 30,000-square-foot lodge with big pangs, but Stowe Rocks kept his mind wooden ceiling beams, buzzing with elsewhere. winter activities.

Had we needed more fuel, however, The Elephant Head Tower, named the Canteen upstairs would have come for a nearby outdoor climbing cliff to the rescue. There, chefs hand-toss at Smugglers’ Notch, serves as the pizza pies such as the Big Pig, with centerpiece of Stowe Rocks’ climbing meatballs, hot Italian sausage and facility, which features nearly 50 ground beef; and the Off-Piste Pesto, routes on 20-odd top-rope stations.

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People come in, and they can’t believe it.

with artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, olives and goat cheese.

The Canteen also offers strombolis, salads, subs and frosted brownies to take the edge off a chilly day on Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak.

In addition to Stowe Rocks, the Adventure Center now houses Stowe’s Ski & Snowboard School. The Canteen, just adjacent, can accommodate 420 kids and instructors sitting down for lunch at the same time.

“There are very few purpose-built centers of this size in our business,” said Stowe marketing and communications director Jeff Wise of the familyfocused venue. “Stowe Rocks allows multiple generations to continue their active day together, while the Canteen provides great family food and drink.”

Stowe Rocks

Wise added that the Adventure Center hosts kids’ programs such as Climb Time — supervised evening activities that enable parents to enjoy some alone time.

COURTESY OF STOWE ADVENTURE CENTER

Jamie Two Coats Toyshop Located in the ❤ of Shelburne Village Monday-Saturday 10-6 Sunday 11-5 802-985-3221

Keep Climbing!

Got the bouldering bug? Here are four more Vermont climbing centers where families can rock out.

Petra Cliffs Indoor Climbing Center & Mountaineering School, Burlington petracliffs.com

Elephant Head Tower

This South End climbing gym hosts after-school classes, birthday parties and a Friday Night Kids Club, where parents drop off their littles from 6 to 9 p.m. for pizza, games and climbing. In the summer, it also offers Mountain Adventure Training day camps for ages 6 to 14 and overnight expeditions for ages 10 and up.

MetroROCK Vermont, Essex Junction metrorock.com/burlington

Parents can call ahead to set up a private lesson for their kiddos at this rock-climbing chain, which also operates centers in Boston and Brooklyn. On Tuesday mornings, MetroROCK offers a two-hour instructional program for homeschoolers. Summer camps and after-school classes are also available.

Northern Lights Rock and Ice, Essex Junction northernlightsvt.com.

You’ll find outdoor rock and ice climbing walls, ropes courses, zip lines, a giant swing and more at this four-seasons recreational facility.

Sign up in advance for a group outing, birthday party, or school vacation or summer camp.

Green Mountain Rock Climbing Center, Quechee vermontclimbing.com/ quechee.html

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KIDS VT

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer

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This center boasts 30- and 40-foot walls suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike. It also hosts youth and adult birthday parties and a variety of summer programs for ages 7 to 16.

HAPPY, HEALTHY AND SMART

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

A version of this story appeared in the November 16 issue of Seven Days.

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The Adventure Center is heated and cooled entirely with geothermal energy. A large-scale mural by Geoff McFetridge, former art director for underground Beastie Boys magazine Grand Royal, uses animal caricatures to highlight local points of interest.

Visitors can peruse artifacts from Vermont’s early skiing history in a Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum installation.

If those visitors don’t own outdoor equipment, no problem: The Adventure Center also includes a Gear Zone rental area, a retail space, a concierge call center, a movie theater and a daycare center. The resort is doing its best to provide one-stop shopping for nearly every recreational need. It may also be trying to persuade people never to leave.

The ice-skating rink right outside hosts broomball on Thursdays and offers free lessons for kids on Fridays.

The resort has performances lined up this winter, too: For example, Olympic medalist Nancy Kerrigan will appear in a preholiday skating exhibition on December 17 and 18.

I know Stowe’s fabled Front Four will still call my name this winter. But other adventures might, too. When my kids clambered off the Adventure Center’s climbing wall and pleaded, “Can we try it again?” my answer was easy: yes. K

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and Soar

UVM lecturer Trish O’Kane and Flynn fifth grader Yadiel

Birding to Change the World gets kids and their college mentors into the woods

BY KEN PICARD

A

fter classes end one Wednesday afternoon, a gaggle of students bolts across the playground at J.J. Flynn Elementary School and plunges into the woods, heading toward the Burlington Bike Path. Once a week for their after-school program, these fourth and fifth graders, accompanied by college-age mentors from the University of Vermont, walk a mile from their New North End school to Derway Island, a natural area near the mouth of the Winooski River.

The group is out bird-watching, but the kids make such a racket along the way — swinging sticks, yelling to friends, tossing around tennis balls — that’s it’s hard to imagine they’ll see any wildlife at all.

Yet less than 10 minutes into their walk, the kids and their “co-explorers” — as their mentors from UVM’s Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources are called — suddenly shush each other, scan the woods with binoculars and point. A kid has spotted a large brown-andwhite barred owl perched on a tree limb about 40 feet up, a sighting even experienced birders in the group say is impressive.

After a few minutes, the owl flies off and the kids resume their noisy trek, stopping next at a wooden railing along the bike path that overlooks Lake Champlain. There, Nathaniel Sharp, a UVM junior who’s majoring in wildlife biology, points out other bird species to the kids, including his “birding buddy,” Colby, a towheaded 9-year-old whose T-shirt reads, “I’m just here for the snacks.”

“There’s a white-breasted nuthatch up there,” Sharp shouts. “And we’ve got some ducks over there and … Oh, look! Snow buntings! See that flock?”

The kids reply with a chorus of “oohs” and “aahs” as the birds sail by. Sharp, the group’s unofficial ornithologist, says he’s been birding since he was Colby’s age. In 2013, he was on the first high school team to win New Jersey’s annual World Series of Birding.

Notwithstanding Sharp’s avian acumen, many of the wildlife sightings these co-explorers make are new to the grade-schoolers and college students alike. The two groups learn from each other, which is why UVM lecturer Trish O’Kane brought them together.

“I call it ‘Birding to Change the World,’ but the truth is, we go with whatever that kid’s individual interest is,” O’Kane explains. For example, some kids are crazy about frogs, others about snakes, still others about beavers, plants or bugs. From the get-go, O’Kane tells her UVM students, “Don’t start by trying to ‘teach’ them anything. First, see what they care about and what they’re interested in. Then, you can start teaching them.”

Twelve years ago, O’Kane never would have imagined she’d be teaching a college-level course on birding — or anything else related to wildlife biology or the environment, for that matter. Back then, she hadn’t taken a biology class since eighth

A kid has spotted a large barred owl, a sighting even experienced birders in the group say is impressive.

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grade.

O’Kane’s educational background and professional career was more human- than animal-oriented. She grew up in Orange County, Calif., then attended the University of Southern California in the 1980s.

While still an undergraduate at USC, O’Kane became a student activist working to end apartheid in South Africa and U.S. military interventions in Central America.

After graduating from USC in 1985, O’Kane moved to Nicaragua, where she worked for four years as a freelance investigative reporter, then spent another six in Guatemala working as a journalist and United Nations investigator researching human-rights abuses and war crimes.

After a decade in Central America, O’Kane earned her master’s degree in development studies from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Next she returned to the United States for a position at the Southern Poverty

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Law Center, where she spent another five years working on civil-rights issues. It wasn’t until she landed a job teaching journalism at Loyola University in New Orleans, in August 2005, that her study of the environment — and not just the people who live in it — became very real.

Twenty-eight days after she relocated to New Orleans, Hurricane Katrina left O’Kane’s house submerged beneath 11 feet of water. O’Kane and her husband had evacuated to Alabama 36 hours earlier and didn’t return to New Orleans for four months. It was only upon her return, as her newly adopted city was still reeling from the aftermath of one of the nation’s worst environmental disasters, that O’Kane became keenly aware of the first signs of life returning to the city: the birds.

“That first morning back I woke to something strange and rare in New Orleans — silence. I lay in bed and listened. Then I heard clicking — cardinals — soon joined by an army of beeping bulldozers,” O’Kane wrote in an August 16, 2014, op-ed piece in the New York Times. “I took a cup of coffee and sat on the back stoop. About a dozen small brown sparrows clung to a few spindly trees. Where did they go during the hurricane? How did they survive?”

O’Kane, who confesses that she had “zero interest” in birds before the storm, quickly became fascinated by their return to New Orleans. For her as well as her students, observing and studying avian life became a form of therapy.

She’d often bring her students, many of whom were as shell-shocked as she was by the devastation, to nearby Audubon Park, where they’d watch the ducks and observe migratory birds re-inhabiting this toxic, lifeless place.

As she wrote in the Times, “I realized, then, that the birds had become our teachers.”

And they would continue teaching her for years to come. A decade later, O’Kane had earned her PhD in environment and resources, and

KIDSVT.COM

“A lot of these college students had never seen an owl, and a little boy just taught them that,” she says.

“Now, that’s really cool!”

O’Kane is the creator and instructor of Birding to Change the World, an environmental justice course that gets children and their college mentors exploring the outdoors together. The mentors are her students.

First taught at UVM when O’Kane arrived a year ago — she previously taught the class at the University of Wisconsin-Madison — the service-learning course aims to reverse an alarming national trend: Children are spending remarkably less time in nature than did previous generations, resulting in physical and emotional deficiencies that child advocacy expert Richard Louv has dubbed “nature-deficit disorder.” NDD isn’t a clinically recognized mental diagnosis. But as Louv posits in his book Last Child in the Woods — a required text in O’Kane’s course — children who lack regular exposure to nature are more prone to anxiety, depression, obesity and attention disorders, and they also exhibit limited respect for their natural surroundings.

Each semester, O’Kane handpicks 18 UVM students to take her capstone course. As she explains, she not only wants students with solid grades and relevant majors, but also those who are responsible enough to mentor a child and show up every week.

Most are seniors in UVM’s environmental sciences or environmental studies programs, though O’Kane has also accepted outdoor education, recreation and tourism majors.

Next, O’Kane pairs each college student with a fourth or fifth grader, all of whom are enrolled in Flynn’s after-school program. There’s no cost to the school kids’ families beyond the normal after-school fees.

What criteria does she use to match mentor and mentee? O’Kane says she asks each to choose which animal they’d like to be. She then pairs them by animal species: big cats with big cats, raptors with raptors, reptiles with reptiles, and so on.

Explore and Soar CONTINUED FROM P.21

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had created Birding to Change the World, pairing University of Wisconsin students with school kids from inner-city Madison.

She became an avid bird-watcher in Madison’s 200acre Warner Park, eventually identifying 141 bird species there.

O’Kane used the mentor/mentee structure, she says, because it had worked so well for her in a cub reporter program she’d previously developed at Auburn University.

There, she’d paired aspiring high school journalists with college journalism majors and helped get their coauthored stories published in some of Alabama’s most prestigious newspapers.

O’Kane likens the mentoring relationship to one between an older and younger sibling. Because they’re so close in age, the children don’t see the college students as authority figures so much as role models.

“There’s this thing where college kids are cool. And in middle and high school, and even in elementary school, it’s all about the culture of cool,” she says. “And, of course, we want education to be cool.”

When the students finally arrive at Derway Island — an hour after departing Flynn — the bonds between younger and older co-explorers are on full display.

Melody Salerno, a senior in environmental studies from Brooklyn, N.Y., snaps some selfies with Molly, her fourth-grade co-explorer with whom she was paired because they’re both “cats.”

“She’s the light of my week,” Salerno says with a smile, just before Molly practically tackles her with a bear hug. As Molly darts off to chase some girls who are scrambling up a fallen tree limb some 10 feet above the trail, Salerno reflects on the kids’ wilderness adventures — ones that Salerno herself never experienced growing up in Brooklyn.

“That’s part of the beauty of this class, letting them climb that tree and do something that might be a little dangerous,” she says. “It’s up to them to decide their awareness with space and understand when going that high is too far.”

Mariah Notini, a UVM senior from Lowell, Mass., had a similar experience with her mentee. As she follows a trio of girls racing through the woods, Notini says it’s hard to believe these are the same kids she met at the beginning of the semester.

“The first few weeks, before the girls did anything even slightly risky, they’d look at me and say, ‘Can we do this? Am I allowed to do this?’” Notini recalls.

“That went for climbing a fence, climbing a tree, even just running ahead, literally anything outside of walking in a straight line.”

Notini admits she had some initial trepidation of her own about taking this class, as she’d never

Some kids have started going to Derway Island on their own time.

UVM senior Katlyn Williard and Flynn fifth grader Ivy spot a blue jay near the Burlington Bike Path

worked with kids before and wasn’t sure how tightly to hold the reins.

“At the beginning it was easy to be hard on myself for not knowing the answers to all their questions,” she says. “I felt like I didn’t know enough about nature and had to teach them about everything we saw.” She’s since realized that the reason she’s there is more to “encourage curiosity rather than constantly have an answer.”

But to that end, O’Kane also wants the kids to get their questions answered. So she asks the school kids to assign their college mentees weekly “research questions” about things they’ve encountered while walking in the woods — and even has the kids grade their mentees’ “homework.” Some questions are relatively straightforward, such as “Why do stinging nettles sting?” or “Why does poison ivy cause a rash?”

Others are far less conventional.

“Our children like us to make really weird perfumes for them,” notes Lily Myers, a junior in environmental studies from Calais.

Once, she says, a research question required her to make one perfume that smelled like ice cream, another like cinnamon. What grade did the kids give her? “I think we passed,” she says.

How effective is the class at achieving its ultimate goal of getting kids into the wild? Myers points out that, since they began bringing the Flynn students to Derway Island, some kids have started going there on their own time, as most live nearby. “They’re starting to love this place,” she adds, “which is really exciting.”

Indeed, Graham Clarke, Flynn’s principal, says that the reviews he’s heard, from students and parents alike, are unanimous: “They all speak incredibly highly of it,” he says.

When we spoke, Clarke had just left a meeting with the parents of a boy in the program who’s had a tough time fitting in at school. His parents described the program to Clarke as “three hours in the middle of the week that’s the crown jewel of the boy’s school experience.” O’Kane hopes to expand the program to Lyman C. Hunt Middle School and Burlington High School so she can track these students’ progress.

Colby, the 9-year-old who’s partnered with Sharp, describes Birding to Change the World as “one of my favorite things to do.”

“I’m speechless. I just saw an owl today,” he says as the light fades from the sky. “What could be better?” K

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COURTESY OF RUN VERMONT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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SPOTLIGHTS & LISTINGS BY BRETT STANCIU

Looking for a virtuous way to jump-start the new year? Sign the whole family up for Run Vermont’s FIRSTRUN 5K & YOUTH FUN RUN. Prerace, young athletes decorate their bibs and a special cookie. Then, 4- to 7-year-olds burn energy on a half-mile course, while longer-legged 8- to 12-year-olds put their mettle to the test in a mile race. At the finish line, kiddos enjoy cups of cocoa and nachos courtesy of Moe’s Southwest Grill, while the adults power through a 5K. Crazy costumes are encouraged — and prizes will be awarded — to spread New Year cheer.

FIRSTRUN 5K & YOUTH FUN RUN: Sunday, January 1, registration at 9 a.m.; fun runs at 10:30 a.m. & 10:40 a.m.; 5K at 11 a.m., at the Burlington Town Center. $30-35; Fun runs are free, though registration is required. Ages 4 and up. Info, 863-8412. runvermont.org

DECEMBER 6 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Drop-In Preschool Art: Miniature Michelangelos dig into clay, paint, collage and printmaking.

Ages 3-5 with adult. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11 a.m. $10 per child. Info, 985-3648.

ReCember-Mosaics: Young artists learn basic mosaic techniques and turn used materials into works of art. Ages 6 and up; adult supervision required. ReSOURCE: A Nonprofit Community Enterprise, Burlington, 3-5:30 p.m. $5 donation.

Info, 658-4143.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: Moms tote their precrawling kids to an all-levels flowing yoga class focused on bringing the body back to strength and alignment in a fun and nurturing environment. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. $15; $130 for a 10-class pass. Info, 864-9642.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: Mothers-to-be build strength, stamina, comfort and a stronger connection to their baby. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 4:15-5:30 p.m. $15 or $130 for 10-class pass. Info, 864-9642.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: Women prepare for birth through yoga, with a focus on strengthening the body and mind. See prenatalmethod.com for class descriptions.

Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $15. Info, 829-0211.

Dance

Family Yoga Dance: Fitness-minded folks move and groove together. Ages 13 and under, with families welcome. Zenbarn Studio, Waterbury, 6-6:45 p.m. Suggested donation $10. Info, 505-1688.

Education

French for Middle Schoolers: Native speaker and French teacher Baptiste Delvalle coaches eager language learners through song and conversation. Grades 6-8. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 735-0003.

Games

Parenting

Adoption Support Group: Families facing adoption issues and challenges join forces in a respectful setting. All welcome. Franklin County Seniors Center, St. Albans, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 524-1700.

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: Moms and dads deepen parent-child communication skills, discuss empathy and learn how to empower their families. A light dinner and childcare are included. Milton Family Community Center, 5:45-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 498-0607.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: Moms and dads deepen parent-child communication skills, discuss empathy and learn how to empower their families. A light dinner and childcare are included. Church of the Rock, St. Albans, 5:307:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 498-0607.

7 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Holiday Artisans Market: Local artisans and specialty food producers offer a fine array of handcrafted gifts, including pottery, silk scarves, stained glass, maple syrup and chocolates. All ages. Chandler Music Hall, Randolph, 5-7 p.m.

Free. Info, 728-6464.

ReCember-Mosaics: See December 6.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:457:15 p.m.

Mom and Baby Yoga: Brand-new mamas and their littles relax, stretch and bond. Followed by a free mothers’ gathering. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15. Info, 223-5302.

Mother’s Gathering: Moms and new babies spread out, sip tea, nurse and swap stories. Children under 2 welcome. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-5302.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: New moms gather for toning and relaxation. Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15.

Info, 829-0211.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Education

Games

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: Novice and experienced players put their imaginations together.

Ages 10 and up. Regular attendance needed to follow the ongoing storyline. Jericho Town Library, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4686.

Library & Books

Dorothy’s List Book Club: Middle readers make merry conversation around DCF pick Shadows of Sherwood by Kekla Magoon. Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 264-5660.

Lego Club: Young builders bust out the blocks and creativity in themed sessions. Ages 6 and up.

Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington, 3:154:15 p.m. Free. Info, 422-9765.

Read to a Dog: Little book lovers select stories to share with a furry friend. Ages 5-10. Fairfax Community Library, 3:15-4:15 p.m. Free; preregister for 15-minute time slot. Info, 849-2420.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories at ECHO: Preschoolers rally ’round for nature-inspired tales and activities.

Ages 8 and under. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11.50-14.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: Charles Dickens’ beloved classic tale of redemption brings together whirling ghosts, magical music and a cast which includes 10 local children. Ages 8 and up. Northern Stage, White River Junction, 11 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. $15-65. Info, 296-7000.

8 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

8 THURSDAY, P.26

Classes

List your class or camp here for only $20 per month! Submit the listing by January 15 at kidsvt.com or to classes@kidsvt.com.

Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga Classes at Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center — now with expanded schedule! Have a more comfortable pregnancy and prepare for birth with stretching, strengthening and relaxation in prenatal yoga — and then bring your body back to balance and strength in postnatal yoga. Join our community of mothers at any point in your pregnancy, and 6 weeks or later in your postpartum time (until baby is crawling). No yoga experience necessary. Prenatal Yoga: Saturdays, 11:30 am; Sundays, 10 a.m.; Mondays, 5:45 p.m.; Tuesdays, 4:15 p.m.; Wednesdays, 5:45 p.m.; Thursdays, 12:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:15 a.m. Postnatal Yoga: Sundays, 12:15 p.m.; Tuesdays, 11 a.m.; Thursdays, 10:45 a.m.; Fridays, 8:15 a.m.; Fridays, noon (postnatal core). Drop-ins welcome; $15/class, $130/10 class pass, or $75/ monthly unlimited. Location: Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, 20 Kilburn St., Burlington. Info: evolutionprenatalandfamily. com, 899-0339.

EvoKids and EvoBabies Yoga Classes at Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center: Register now for our January series of EvoKids and EvoBabies Yoga, ages 6 months to teen. Weekday and weekend classes available. Location: Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, 20 Kilburn St., Burlington. Info: evolutionprenatalandfamily.com, 899-0339.

December CAMP: African Art & French: Ooh la la! Adventure to Africa at Wingspan Studio with Madame Maggie! Explore diverse

cultures with art, music, drumming, painting, drawing and papier-mâché. Outdoor play, weather permitting. Learn French songs and games. Held in a beautiful working studio full of inspiration and creativity. Maggie Standley is a fluent French speaker, professional artist and longtime instructor who has lived and worked in both Paris and West Africa.

Ages 5-11. Dec. 23, 27-30, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $300/5 days or $75/day. Aftercare available until 5 p.m. for $20/day. Location: Wingspan Studio, 4A Howard St., Burlington. Info and registration: maggiestandley@gmail.com.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The future of our nation lies in the courage, confidence and determination of its people. Our Kids BJJ Program promotes self-esteem, self-confidence, character development and a physical outlet with discipline, cooperation with other children, respect for peers and adults, perseverance and a healthy lifestyle. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will help your kids to learn realistic bully-proofing and self-defense skills that they can use for the rest of their lives! Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu builds endurance, patience and self-respect.

Give your kids the ability to get stronger, gain confidence and build resilience! Our sole purpose is to help empower people by giving them practices they can carry with them throughout life. Remember you are raising children, not flowers. First class is free! Please stop by our school at 55 Leroy Road, Williston; call 598-2839; visit our website vermontbjj.com or email julio@bjjusa.com to register your son or daughter!

25

High School Observation Morning: Students and parents interested in finding out more about the Waldorf philosophy tour classes, meet teachers and ask questions. Lake Champlain Waldorf High School, Shelburne, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 985-2827, ext. 102.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: More than fifty vendors peddle produce, from fresh salad greens to apples and cider, alongside artisan cheese, homemade bread and other local products. All ages. Vermont Farmers Food Center, Rutland, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, 342-4727.

Winter Movie Night: A film of recent footage, archived interviews and still shots complements the Vermont Reads books about Ernest Shackleton’s ill-fated Antarctic adventure. Ages 10 and up. Waterbury Public Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

KIDS VT

Coding Club: Clever kiddos get creative with computers using Makey Makey and Scratch. Grades 3-4. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Coding for Kids: Young techies conquer basic computer code with Scratch Jr. and Hopscotch apps. Ages 7-11. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

Crafternoon: Maker-minded kids create cool projects. Ages 7 and up. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 482-2878.

Preschool Music: Bitty ones dance and sing to a brisk beat. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 264-5660.

Food

Movies

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Library & Books

Music

Reading Buddies: Young readers pair up with volunteers for literacy and laughs. Kindergarten and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregistration appreciated but not required. Info, 264-5660.

KIDSVT.COM

Chess Club: Strategists enjoy competition and camaraderie. All ages. Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington, 3:15 p.m. Free. Info, 422-9765.

Family Game Night: Families take over the library’s tabletops for a fun evening. Ages 5 and up.

Fairfax Community Library, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Lego Club: Amateur architects snap together buildings of their own design. All ages. Children ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: Players of all skill levels team up for card playing. All ages. Haston Library, Franklin, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Middle School Planners & Helpers: Students make plans for community projects and munch on snacks. Grades 6-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: Book buffs bring a selection from home or borrow from the library to amuse an attentive canine. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4 p.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 878-6956.

Spanish Musical Kids: Niños celebrate Latin American culture through tunes and games en español. Ages 1-5 with a caregiver. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

TinkerBelles: Curious kids learn about working women in the wide worlds of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. Grades 3-5. Charlotte Public Library, 2:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 425-3864.

CALENDAR

8 THURSDAY (CONTINUED)

Education

Audubon Homeschool Program: Home-based learners use the outdoor classroom to explore a variety of seasonal topics, from measuring forests to aquatic ecosystems. Ages 9-12. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $25; $15 each additional sibling; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

Observation Morning for Pre-K Through 8th Grade: Parents of prospective Waldorf students peer into classes, then participate in a question and answer session. Adults only. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 8:30-10 a.m.

Free; RSVP. Info, 985-2827, ext. 12.

St. Albans Nurturing Father Program: Dads deepen parent-child communication skills, discuss empathy and learn how to empower their families. A light dinner and childcare are included. Turning Point — Franklin County, St. Albans, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 498­-0607.

Food

Hot Chocolate Hut: Folks sip piping-hot cocoa with all the fixings near a festively decorated shack. All ages. Cannon Park, Middlebury, 5-8 p.m. 25¢ per cup. Info, 345-1366.

Games

Chess Club: Checkmate! Kids of all ability levels scheme winning strategies. Ages 6 and up.

Fairfax Community Library, 3:15-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Lego Club: Mini-makers participate in surprise challenges with colorful interlocking blocks.

Ages 6-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: Tiny feet learn the art of sliding on ice through fun and games. Ages 2-5 with caregiver. Leddy Park, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. $8 per family; $1 skate rentals. Info, 865-7558.

Holidays

Holiday Open House: Sleigh rides, snacks and Santa’s presence until 7 p.m. enliven the library.

All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 524-1507.

26

KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

Library & Books

Franklin Lego Thursdays: Young constructionists combine their creativity with the library’s supplies. All ages. Haston Library, Franklin, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: An attentive canine listens to little people read. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4 p.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 878-6956.

St. Albans Library Legos: Aspiring architects engage in construction projects with their peers.

St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: Lively tunes with local musicians strike the right note among the wee crowd. Ages 5 and under with a caregiver. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free; limited to one session per week per family. Info, 878-4918.

Nature & Science

Predator Prowl: Young naturalists forage for food and hone their hunting skills. Ages 3-5 with adult companion. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

COURTESY OF MONTSHIRE MUSEUM

DEC

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

9 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 8:159:15 a.m.

Community

Essex Village Tree Lighting & Train Hop: The village lights up at 6:15 p.m. for a festive evening with model train displays all over town and a free trolley shuttle to Maple Street Park for merriment and music. All ages. Downtown Essex Junction, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1375.

Kids’ Night Out: While their parents appreciate time off, youngsters enjoy dinner, a movie and games. Grades K-6. David Gale Recreation Center, Stowe, 6-10 p.m. $15 per child. Info, 253-3054.

Wassail Weekend: History lovers celebrate the holidays in the 1890s with traditional music, sleigh rides on Sunday, crafts and more. All ages.

Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Education

Bedtime Math’s Crazy 8s: Junior mathematicians make merry with numbers, music and their imaginations. Ages 8-11. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 9-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 472-5948.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: Families make holiday memories as they watch confectioners in action and make twisted treats of their own.

Preregister to participate or watch; space is limited. Laughing Moon Chocolates, Stowe, 11 a.m. Free to watch. $6 per person to make your own candy cane. Info, 253-9591.

Kids in the Kitchen: Gingerbread Houses: Budding architects craft fanciful dwellings decorated with gum drops, candy canes and chocolate kisses. All ages. Healthy Living Market & Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Games

Lego Club: Youngsters build with plastic blocks and enjoy companionship. Ages 4-12. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 3-4:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 586-9683.

Magic: The Gathering: Novice and experienced players team up for card playing. Ages 8 and up.

Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington, 3:154:15 p.m. Free. Info, 422-9765.

Library & Books

All Ages Story Time: Picture books, finger play and rhymes provide amusement. Ages 5 and under. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Early Bird Math Story Time: Little learners get going with math literacy through games and play. Ages 2-5. Richmond Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

Family Story Time: Librarian and storyteller Molly Pease leads little ones in stories, crafts, music and more. Bridgeside Books, Waterbury, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-1441.

Behind the Music The creative and the practical come together in Montshire Museum’s new exhibit, “MAKING MUSIC: THE SCIENCE OF MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS.” Designed in consultation with musicians, scientists, instrument makers and acousticians, interactive stations invite visitors of all ages to create and play authentic instruments and watch videos of musicians who’ve mastered their craft. In one area, kids can try out a modular synthesizer made by New Hampshireborn instrument maker Dan Snazzelle. In another, friends and families come together to play in a band and see how the different sounds complement each other. Underlying the exhibition is the idea that all instruments rely on science, tech, engineering and mathematics to make beautiful sound.

“MAKING MUSIC: THE SCIENCE OF MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS”: Through September 17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Montshire Museum in Norwich. Regular winter museum admission, $12-15; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200. montshire.org Friday Free for All: Junior explorers investigate their world, from rocks to bugs. Ages 3-5.

Charlotte Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 425-3864.

Stuffie Sleepover: Furry friends spend Friday night at the library, and their owners receive a photo at pickup Saturday morning of the animals’ adventures. Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 422-9765.

Train Hop: Whoo-hoo! Families marvel at model choo-choos on display. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: Toe-tapping tunes captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 660-9346.

Music With Robert: Families sing along with a local legend. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Vienna Boys Choir: These Austrian child musicians mesmerize the audience with a repertoire ranging from folk songs to classical masterpieces, with a holiday theme. St. Johnsbury Academy, 7 p.m. $15-64; free for students 18 and under when accompanied by a paying adult.

Info, 748-2600, ext. 2.

Theater

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’: The Peanuts gang discovers the true meaning of Christmas in this family production. (See spotlight.) All ages. Memorial Hall, Essex Junction, 7 p.m. $16-18. Info, 878-9109.

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 7:30 p.m.

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’: a Live Radio Play: Middlebury’s professional actors workshop performs a 1940s radio broadcast with live music, sound effects and over 40 characters. All ages.

Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 7:30 p.m. $1022. Info, 388-1436.

10 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Family Day: Seasonal art activities, including gingerbread house building and dreidel games, make for a crafty drop-in afternoon for families in conjunction with the Festival of Trees and Light exhibit. All ages. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 253-8358.

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Kids’ Christmas Craft: Aspiring artists lend their talented hands to a holiday-inspired activity.

Ages 5 and up. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m.

Free; preregistration required. Info, 524-1507.

Shelburne Craft School Saturday Drop-In: Artsy types create seasonal masterpieces in this ever-changing weekly series. Projects available for pickup at a later date. Ages 5-15 with an adult.

Shelburne Craft School, 10-11 a.m. $10 per participant. Info, 985-3648.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Submit your February events for print by January 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

THE

SCHOOLHOUSE

Community

Pancake Character Breakfast: Revelers join the Grinch, a candy Holiday Happenings: Horsecane, a reindeer and Santa’s elves drawn trolley rides, holiday elf for a full breakfast with a photo performances, Big Blue Express booth, coloring and balloons. All See Dr. First videos train rides and more make for ages. Middlebury Inn, 8:30-11:15 “First With Kids” at merry shoppers. All ages. Maple a.m. $8-12. Info, 345-1366. uvmhealth.org.

Tree Place, Williston, 12-4 p.m.

Santa’s Arrival & Cookie DecoFree. rating: The jolly red elf comes to Kids Trade & Play: Families town and settles in for a sweet exchange clean and gently-used activity. All ages. Montpelier City clothing and toys, size newborn to 12. Capital Center, 12:30-3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-9604.

City Grange, Berlin, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $3 per famVictorian Holiday Open House: Carolers create a ily. Info, 337-8632. bright-and-merry tone for an afternoon of crafts, Wassail Weekend: See December 9. free planetarium shows and holiday happenings.

All ages. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Dance Johnsbury, 1:30-4 p.m. Free. Info, 748-2372.

‘Clara Dreams’: Ballerinas from the local Elan Academy of Classical Ballet and guest star VladLibrary & Books imir Roje perform this family holiday classic. All Second Saturdays: This child-friendly afternoon, ages. Mount Mansfield Union High School, Jeria collaboration between the Norwich Public cho, 3:30-4:45 p.m. $12-15. Info, 978-663-5127.

Library and the Norwich Bookstore, celebrates Happy Grinchmas: Will the Grinch succeed reading with various themed activities. Check in ruining Christmas for the Whos down in norwichlibrary.org for location, 1-2 p.m. Free.

Whoville? This fun-filled Fusion 802 student Info, 649-1184. dance rendition of the Dr. Seuss tale reveals the Spanish Musical Playgroup: Rhymes, books, answer. All ages. Lyman C. Hunt Middle School, songs and crafts en español entertain niños.

Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $6; free for children Snacks provided. Ages 5 and under. Dorothy under 2. Info, 444-0100.

Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Fairs & Festivals Stuffie Sleepover: See December 9, 10-11 a.m.

Winter Breakfast & Holiday Market: Families fill up on a hot breakfast, smile for a photo with Movies Santa and shop at the children’s gift fair. All Family Movie Matinee: Families snuggle in ages. Smilie Memorial School, Bolton, 8-11 a.m. to see a big-screen PG-rated flick and savor $5; $20 per family. Info, 434-2757. snacks. All ages. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m.

Free. Info, 893-4644.

Now enrolling grades K-8 for 2017-18

Observation Mornings on Thursday 1/12 and 1/26 @ 8:30-10 am

www.theschoolousevt.org

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Food

Health & Fitness

Holidays

Nature & Science

Corvid Community Naturalists: This monthly gathering explores Burlington’s urban wilds through the seasons. Bring a notebook, writing implement and your curiosity. Open to the community; ages 5 and up. Rock Point, Burlington, 9 a.m.-noon. Suggested donation $10; $20 per family. Info, 557-7127.

Snowy Owl Day: Fans of Harry Potter’s feathered friend meet a real white owl, and discover how these unique creatures survive in the Arctic. All ages. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Regular museum admission, $12.50-14.50; free for children under 4. Info, 359-5000.

Tour the Cosmos: This 50-minute live presentation takes the audience on a journey deep into the universe. Ages 6 and up. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 1:30 p.m. $6 plus regular museum admission, $7-9; free for children under 5. Info, 748-2372.

Winter Tree Identification Walk: Local naturalist Ed Jalbert teams up with Natural Marshfield for an educational stroll through the woods. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, noon. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Theater

KIDS VT

Milton Community Tree Lighting: Hot cocoa, caroling and Santa Claus create a magical evening around the community conifer. Bring an ornament that will withstand weather. Hannaford Plaza Milton, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4922.

Old-Fashioned Visits With Santa: Deserving kids read their holiday wish lists to jolly Saint Nick in an authentic toy workshop. All ages.

Maple Landmark Woodcraft, Middlebury, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 345-1366.

Family Concert: Harpist Judi Byron enchants the audience with melodies from many lands.

Ages 18 months and up. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Vermont Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops: Traditional favorites delight a festive audience, including excerpts from the Messiah, a caroling singalong and an African percussion piece by Ghanan Sowah Mensah. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $10-52. Info, 863-5966.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: Youngsters master basic yoga poses through games, songs and dance. Mindfulness activities improve focus and concentration. Ages 3-9. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 10:30-11:15 a.m. $15. Info, 864-9642.

Music

KIDSVT.COM

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: Local farmers, artisans and producers offer fresh and prepared foods, crafts and more in a bustling indoor marketplace with food and live music. All ages. UVM Davis Student Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 310-5172.

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 9, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Hot Chocolate Hut: See December 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: Crafts, cheeses, breads, veggies and more vie for spots in shoppers’ totes. All ages. Mary Hogan Elementary School, Middlebury, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Free. Info, 537-4754.

Norwich Winter Farmers Market: Local growers offer produce, meats and maple syrup, complementing baked goods and crafts from area artists. All ages. Tracy Hall, Norwich, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 384-7447.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’: See December 9, 2 & 7 p.m.

27

10 SATURDAY, P.28

DEC

CALENDAR

10 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’: a Live Radio Play: See December 9, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

Kids VT Spectacular Spectacular: Vermont’s rising stars ages 5-13 wow the crowd with twominute acts showcasing their talents. Doors open at noon. Higher Ground, South Burlington, 12:30 p.m. $7-10; free for children under 7. Info, 985-5482.

11 SUNDAY

Arts & Crafts

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 1011:30 a.m.

Community

Holiday Happenings: See December 10.

Wassail Weekend: See December 9.

Dance

‘Clara Dreams’: See December 10.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 9.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: Energy-filled kids flip, jump and tumble in a state-of-the-art facility. Ages 6 and under, 1 p.m.; ages 7-12, 2:30 p.m.; ages 13 and up, 4 p.m. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 1-5:30 p.m. $8. Info, 655-3300.

Family Tennis Drop-In: Players rally and mingle on the courts. Equipment provided. All ages. Middlebury Indoor Tennis, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Free.

KIDSVT.COM

Enosburgh Nurturing Parent Program: Moms and dads deepen parent-child communication skills, discuss empathy and learn how to empower their families. A light dinner and childcare are included. Enosburgh Public Library, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 498-0607.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: Little musicians ages 2 and under sing songs and engage in early literacy activities. Rutland Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 773-1860.

Essex Lego Club: Inventive kiddos press together plastic-piece creations. Ages 5-12. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 879-0313.

Folk Tales: Storyteller Linda Costello spins imaginative yarns. Grades 1 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Gingerbread Stories & Cookie Decorating: Wee ones in PJs bring their favorite stuffed animal for a read-aloud and sweet treat fun.

Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Holiday Storytime: Traditional and new tales, tunes and tasty treats delight youngsters. All ages. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Stories with Megan: Little listeners learn and laugh. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Music

Nature & Science

Nature & Science

Music

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Education

Holiday Concert & Sing-Along: Friends and neighbors make merry melodies with the Milton Community Band. All ages. Milton High School, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4922.

John Churchman: ‘Brave Little Finn’: Best-selling co-author of The Sheepover celebrates the sequel with a picture-book read-aloud. All ages. Phoenix Books Rutland, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 855-8078.

KIDS VT

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: Educator Emily Lanxner gets the beat going with creative storytelling, movement and rhythm. Geared toward preschoolers, but all are welcome. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 472-5948.

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8, 11 a.m.

Spanish Musical Kids: Amigos learn Latin American songs and games with native Argentinian Constancia Gómez. Grades K and up.

Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

Library & Books

28

Baby & Maternity

Tour the Cosmos: See December 10.

Theater

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’: See December 9, 2 p.m.

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 p.m.

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’: a Live Radio Play: See December 9, 2 p.m.

12 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Crafts for Kids: Clever kiddos pursue artsy projects. Ages 5-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Audubon Nature Playgroup: Little ones and their caregivers explore the woods, meadows, beaver and peeper ponds while meeting new friends. Ages 5 and under. Open to Richmond, Huntington, and Hinesburg residents. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9:30-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

13 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Drop-In Preschool Art: See December 6.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington La Leche League: New moms bring their babies and questions to a breastfeeding support group. Older children welcome. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 985-8228.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See Mom and Baby Yoga: See DecemDecember 6. ber 7.

See Dr. First videos Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See Mother’s Gathering: See Decem“First With Kids” at December 6. ber 7. uvmhealth.org.

La Leche League of the NorthPrenatal Method Postnatal east Kingdom: Expectant, novice Rehab: See December 7. and experienced moms join Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: nursing experts for advice and See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m. support. Enter through the children’s section of the library. Siblings welcome. St. JohnsEducation bury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, Young Writers & Storytellers: Small ones spin 720-272-8841. their own yarns. Ages 5-11. Burnham Memorial Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Library, Colchester, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Dance

Family Yoga Dance: See December 6.

Education

French for Middle Schoolers: See December 6.

Read to Willy Wonka the Chocolate Lab: A certified reading pooch listens patiently to emerging readers. Ages 3-8. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4 p.m. Free; preregister for a time. Info, 264-5660.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Gingerbread Houses: See December 9.

Games

Holiday Lego Challenge: Clever kiddos drop in to design a seasonal library display of interlocking blocks. Ages 8-11. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See December 6.

Library & Books

Coding Club: See December 6.

Fourth and Fifth Grade Special: Older elementary schoolers have fun with Rice Krispie treat-making and games. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See December 6.

Spanish Musical Kids: See December 6.

TinkerBelles: See December 6.

Music

Food

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7.

Games

Colchester Dungeons & Dragons Night: Players don invented personas and use cleverness and luck to overcome challenges, defeat enemies and save the day. Beginners welcome. Ages 9-13.

Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6-7:45 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See December 7.

Lego Club: Budding builders construct creatively with colorful blocks. Ages 6 and up.

Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Library & Books

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Group for Homeschooled Students: Books nominated for this esteemed award generate group discussion.

Grades 4-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Green Mountain Book Award Book Discussion for Homeschooled Students: High-school homeschoolers meet monthly and make video book talk of their favorite literary finds. Grades 9-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Lego Club: See December 7.

Red Clover Group for Homeschooled Students: Budding book lovers enjoy bibliophile activities. Grades K-3. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Holiday Sing-Along: Students in the 6th and 7th grades — and their friends — are invited to celebrate the season with singing and snacks.

Elley-Long Music Center, Colchester, 4:30-6 p.m. Free; please RSVP. Info, 655-5030.

Preschool Music: See December 6.

Music

Parenting

Nature & Science

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

Song Circle: Community Sing-Along: Songbirds raise their voices with singer/songwriter Heidi Wilson in the lead. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:45-8:15 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Science & Stories at ECHO: See December 7.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7.

14 WEDNESDAY

15 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Arts & Crafts

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7.

ReCember Holiday Cards: Imaginative kiddos make marvelous cards with used record sleeves, picture books and many other materials. Ages 4 and up. ReSOURCE: A Nonprofit Community Enterprise, Burlington, 3-5:30 p.m. $5 donation.

Info, 658-4143.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:457:15 p.m.

Submit your February events for print by January 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Babywearing Playgroup: Moms with tiny tots swap stories and socialize. All ages. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 1011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 899-0339.

15 THURSDAY, P.30

2 016 T A L E N T S H O W F O R

SPONSORED BY:

KIDSVT.COM DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

SATURDAY, December 10, at noon

VERMONT’S RISING STARS

Kids ages 5-13 wow the crowd with two-minute acts showcasing their talents.

Visit kidsvt.com/talentshow for ticket information.

KIDS VT

Higher Ground Ballroom. Kids 6 & under free, $7 in advance, $10 at the door.

29

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CALENDAR

15 THURSDAY (CONTINUED)

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Education

St. Albans Nurturing Father Program: See December 8.

Games

Chess Club: See December 8.

Lego Club: See December 8.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Books Come to Life: This active class, led by a literacy professional, combines reading and movement. Ages 3-6. Waterbury Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See December 8.

PJ Story Hour: Tykes in nightwear nestle together for nursery rhymes, snacks and crafts.

St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See December 8.

Read to Van Gogh the Cat: Feline fanciers sign up for 10-minute sessions with a furry friend.

All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister for a reading slot. Info, 878-4918.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8.

Theater COURTESY OF VERMONT FOLKLIFE CENTER

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

‘The Christmas Revels’: Local performers pair up with Québécois trio Genticorum and dancer Louis Gloutnez for an evening of song, dance and pageantry in the classic tale of The Flying Canoe. All ages. Spaulding Auditorium, Hanover, N.H., 6 p.m. $10-46. Info, 603-646-2422.

16 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Education

Bedtime Math’s Crazy 8s: See December 9.

Fairbanks Homeschool Day: Students expand their scholastic horizons in the museum’s galleries with a variety of programs. Call for specific topics and location. Grades K-8. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $8-10 includes museum admission; $5 for planetarium; one free adult per paying child. Info, 748-2372.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 9.

Games

30

KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

Lego Club: See December 9.

Magic: The Gathering: See December 9.

Delicious Dwellings What do ghost stories and Christmas have in common? Before electric light illuminated Victorian England, the long, dark nights leading up to December’s winter solstice created an apt atmosphere for spine-tingling tales told around the flickering hearth.

This holiday season, the Vermont Folklife Center combines spooky storytelling with their 18th annual GINGERBREAD HOUSE EXHIBIT AND CONTEST. The theme of this year’s event is A Christmas Carol: Revisiting the English Tradition of Ghost Stories During the Holidays, and entrants are encouraged to craft

Library & Books their creations with this topic in mind.

With an expected 40 to 50 candycovered entries, the exhibit kicks off with a reception on Friday, December 2, from 4 to 6 p.m., then remains on display most of the month. Prizes are presented in a range of categories, including professional bakers, families and children who completed a house without adult assistance. On your way out, don’t forget to cast your vote for the People’s Choice award.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE EXHIBIT AND CONTEST: Tuesdays through Saturdays, December 2 through 22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Vermont Folklife Center in Middlebury. Donations accepted. All ages.

Info, 388-4964. vermontfolklifecenter.org

Early Bird Math Story Time: See December 9.

Family Story Time: See December 9.

Friday Free for All: See December 9.

Jiggity Jog: A musical meet-up includes singing, dancing and instrument playing. Ages 2-5. South Burlington Community Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 652-7080.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: Musician Matthew Witten kicks off the morning with tunes and tales. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

17 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Shelburne Craft School Saturday Drop-In: See December 10.

A Solstice Craft: Here comes the sun! Kids ages 5 and up celebrate its cycle by transforming a glass jar into a colorful “stained-glass” candle holder.

Materials provided, but bring your own clean, delabeled glass jar if possible. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

Holiday Happenings: See December 10.

Dance

‘The Gift’: Graceful gliders from the Champlain Valley Skating Club sail across the ice, performing holiday-themed acts during this seasonal revue. All ages. Leddy Park Arena, Burlington, 3 p.m. Donations accepted for the Boys and Girls Club of Burlington. Info, 865-7558.

‘The Green Mountain Nutcracker’: Central Vermont’s Moving Light dance company performs a Vermont-flavored version of this beloved holiday story of a little girl’s nighttime adventures. Barre Opera House, 7 p.m. $15-25.

Info, 476-8188.

‘Vermont’s Own Nutcracker’: Graceful ballerinas conquer the Mouse King and journey to the Land of Sweets in Vermont Ballet Theater’s annual production of this holiday classic. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 2 & 7 p.m. $23-36; children under 12 receive a 10% discount. Info, 863-5966.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: See December 10.

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 9, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Capital City Winter Farmers Market: Root veggies, honey, maple syrup and crafts change hands at an off-season celebration of locavorism. All ages. Montpelier City Hall, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

Info, 223-2958.

Hot Chocolate Hut: See December 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See December 10.

Norwich Winter Farmers Market: See December 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Games

Family Board Game Afternoon: Tabletop games, old and new, furnish family-friendly fun.

All ages. Shelburne Town Hall, 1:30-4 p.m. Free.

Info, 985-5124.

Movies

Health & Fitness

Family Movie: Viewers enjoy a family-friendly film while feasting on free popcorn. All ages.

Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

Skate with Santa: The bearded elf dons skates to circle the rink with young gliders as holiday music plays. All ages. Stowe Arena, 12:15-2:15 p.m. $3-5; $5 skate rental. Info, 253-6138.

Music

Holidays

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See December 9.

Music With Robert: See December 9.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 7:30 p.m.

‘The Christmas Revels’: See December 15, 7 p.m.

Christmas at the Farm: Visitors fête the season the old-fashioned way, with 19th-century crafts, tours of the 1890 farmhouse and wood stove-baked treats. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Holiday with the Santa Day: The man-in-red and his merry Animals: Santa and Mrs. elves amuse the community with horseClaus please pet lovers drawn hay rides and children’s crafts. All with a holiday party, ages. Highgate Fire Station, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

See Dr. First videos sweets and face-painting.

Free. Info, 868-3970.

“First With Kids” at All ages. Central Vermont uvmhealth.org.

Humane Society, East Nature & Science Montpelier, 10 a.m.-2 Tour the Cosmos: See December 10. p.m. Free; donations accepted for shelter needs.

Theater Info, 476-3811.

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 p.m.

Old-Fashioned Visits With Santa: The round guy in red fields last-minute gift requests be‘The Christmas Revels’: See December 15, 1 & fore he heads back to the North Pole. All ages.

5 p.m.

Danforth Pewter, Middlebury, 10 a.m.-noon.

Free. Info, 345-1366.

19 MONDAY ‘Polar Express’ Morning: All aboard! Little ones in PJs munch treats and marvel at a movie Arts & Crafts about a train, a boy and a magical trip to the Crafternoon: Winter Lanterns: Artsy ones spread North Pole. Expect a visit from a jolly elf. Ages light by making lanterns of jars, decorations and 4 and up. Milton Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. battery candles. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7.

Library & Books Cleo the Therapy Dog: Canine and reading enthusiasts visit with a personable pooch from Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Ages 3 and up. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Music

Family Sing-Along: Participants of all ages sing, dance and play simple instruments. All ages. Purple Crayon/ArtisTree, South Pomfret, 10-11 a.m. $10 per adult-child pair; $3 each additional family member. Info, 802 457-3500.

Nature & Science

Tour the Cosmos: See December 10.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

‘The Christmas Revels’: See December 15, 1 & 5 p.m.

18 SUNDAY

Arts & Crafts

Gingerbread House & Ornament Making: Hot cocoa and holiday music set the stage as families decorate graham-cracker structures and create dangly baubles to hang from the tree. Ages 5-11.

ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $20 per family; free for members; preregister.

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Community Dance

‘The Green Mountain Nutcracker’: See December 17, 2 p.m.

‘Vermont’s Own Nutcracker’: See December 17, 1 & 6 p.m.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 9.

Health & Fitness

To learn about our party packages, visit packages, visit vermontteddybear.com/birthday-parties The Vermont Teddy Bear Company 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT (802)985-3001 ext. 1700 • bearshop@vtbear.com Untitled-7 1

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Education

Enosburgh Nurturing Parent Program: See December 12.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Gingerbread Houses: See December 9.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See December 12.

Essex Lego Club: See December 12.

Holiday Storytime: See December 12.

Milton Legos at the Library: Junior builders bust out interlocking blocks. Snacks served. Grades K-5. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

‘Star Wars’ Club: Young fans channel the force and chomp on popcorn. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 878-6956.

Stories with Megan: See December 12.

Music

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See December 12.

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

Audubon Nature Playgroup: See December 12.

20 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7.

Plattsburgh Preschool Story Hour: Aspiring art connoisseurs and their caregivers listen to a picture book, look at original works and create a project to take home. Ages 3-5. Plattsburgh State Art Museum, 10 a.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 518-564-2474.

KIDS VT

Essex Open Gym: See December 11.

• A private tour • A Make a Friend for Life® Bear for each child • Private party space staffed by a Vermont Ted d y Bear Ambassador.

Ambassador.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Holiday Happenings: See December 10.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

All parties include:

KIDSVT.COM

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10-11:30 a.m.

Baby & Maternity

Celebrate your Birthday at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory!

Holidays

31

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

20 TUESDAY, P.32

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CALENDAR

Upcycle Ornaments: Crafty ones turn used goods into holiday treasures. Ages 5 and up. ReSOURCE, Burlington, 3-5:30 p.m. $5 donation. Info, 658-4143.

Pajama Story Time: Small ones cozy up for bedtime tales, cookies and milk. Ages 18 months-5 years. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Read to a Dog: See December 7.

Baby & Maternity

Movies

20 TUESDAY (CONTINUED)

Breastfeeding Café: Moms nurse their babies, chat and pose questions to a certified lactation consultant. Pregnant women, supportive dads and older siblings welcome. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 349-3825.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Dance

Family Yoga Dance: See December 6.

Games

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See December 6.

Library & Books

Coding for Kids: See December 6.

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See December 6.

TinkerBelles: See December 6.

Music

Preschool Music: See December 6.

Parenting

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

Theater

KIDSVT.COM DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 KIDS VT

Food

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7.

Games

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See December 7.

Library & Books

Lego Club: See December 7.

Little One & Me Circle Time: Tiny tykes team up for movement, songs, play and snacks. Ages 5 and under. Jericho Town Library, 10-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 899-4686.

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See December 9.

24 SATURDAY

Breastfeeding Families Group: Nursing moms (and supportive dads, too!) gather for snacks and advice. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

22 THURSDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Education

St. Albans Nurturing Father Program: See December 8.

Games

Health & Fitness

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:457:15 p.m.

Mom and Baby Yoga: See December 7.

Mother’s Gathering: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Music

Parenting

21 WEDNESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Friday Afternoon Movie: Kids snuggle in for snacks and a screening. Children under 10 must be accompanied by a caregiver. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Theater

Science & Stories at ECHO: See December 7.

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 7:30 p.m.

DIY Candle Jars: Light-lovers make a modge-podge lantern. Ages 5 and up. ReSOURCE, Burlington, 3-5:30 p.m. $5 donation; preregister. Info, 658-4143.

Holiday Artisans Market: See December 7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Winter Solstice Craft: Little ones mark the longest night of the year with a light-inspired project. Grades 1 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Movies

Nature & Science

Chess Club: See December 8.

Lego Club: See December 8.

Arts & Crafts

32

Marshfield Family-Themed Movies: A wholesome flick captivates viewers of all ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Friday Free for All: See December 9.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See December 8.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See December 8.

St. Albans Library Legos: See December 8.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

23 FRIDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 8:159:15 a.m.

Community

Holiday Happenings: See December 10.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 9.

Holiday Cookie Decorating: Kids decorate homemade sugar cookies with frosting while parents enjoy hot coffee and live music during this drop-in gathering. All ages. City Market, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 861-9700.

Games

Lego Club: See December 9.

Magic: The Gathering: See December 9.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math Story Time: See December 9.

Family Story Time: See December 9.

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

these graceful creatures from the Vermont Reindeer Farm, and learn how these antlered animals survive in the snow. All ages. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11 a.m., 12:30 & 2 p.m. Free with museum admission, $11.50-14.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

27 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Castle Building Fun: Families have a blast building with paper tubes. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

Holiday Happenings: See December 10.

Sleigh Rides: Giddy-up! Weather permitting, jingling horses trot visitors over the snow on a wintry tour of rolling acres. Rides leave every half hour; seats are first-come, first-served. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $8-10; free for children under 3. Info, 985-8442.

Food

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See December 10.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

Nature & Science

Tour the Cosmos: See December 10.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See December 7, 2 p.m.

25 SUNDAY

Merry Christmas and Happy Hannukah 26 MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7 p.m.

Ongoing Exhibits DOWNTOWN MIDDLEBURY Very Merry Middlebury Character Cutouts: Festive families pose for photo-ops around town with a cast of cutouts, featuring a gingerbread girl, snowmen and Santa.

All ages. Through December 31.

ECHO LEAHY CENTER FOR LAKE CHAMPLAIN, BURLINGTON Info, 864-1848 The Zula Patrol: Mission Weather: Colorful galactic fact-gatherers answer kids’ questions about weather and how it works, learning about clouds, precipitation, wind, temperature and more. All ages. Through January 1.

FAIRBANKS MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM, ST. JOHNSBURY Info: 748-2372 X-Ray Vision: Fish Inside and Out: This temporary exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution illustrates the history of evolution through the translucent images of ancient fish, in an elegant union of science and art. Through May 2017.

MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, MONTSHIRE

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See December 12.

Essex Lego Club: See December 12.

Info, 649-2200 Dinosaur Revolution: Admirers of these ancient animals travel back in time to mimic walking and flying as enormous extinct reptiles, in this combined exhibit and interactive maze. Through January 2.

All ages.

Making Music: The Science of Musical Instruments: The stories, ideas and science behind the creation of musical instruments mesmerize visitors. Through displays, videos and hands-on opportunities, music lovers make and play a variety of instruments, using Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. (See spotlight.) All ages. Through September 17, 2017.

Music

VERMONT FOLKLIFE CENTER, MIDDLEBURY

Nature & Science

Info, 388-4964 Gingerbread House Exhibit and Contest: Visitors feast their eyes on small abodes composed of sweet treats. (See spotlight.)

All ages. Through December 22.

Community

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Education

Enosburgh Nurturing Parent Program: See December 12.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

Library & Books

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See December 12.

Reindeer at ECHO: Animal lovers step close to

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

meal, including homemade salsa, from scratch. Healthy Living Market & Café, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon. $20. Info, 863-2569.

See Dr. First videos Rutland Winter Farmers Market: “First With Kids” at See December 7.

Community uvmhealth.org.

Games Colchester Dungeons & Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Dragons Night: See December 14.

Family Lego Free Build: See DeDance cember 27.

Family Yoga Dance: See December 6.

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See December 7.

Lego Fun: Budding builders bust out the blocks.

Education Grades K and up; kids under 5 are welcome to parRead to Willy Wonka the Chocolate Lab: See ticipate with adult supervision. Brownell Library, December 13.

Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Shepherds Pie ‘Muffins’: Chefs-in-training create small savory pies of veggies, mashed potatoes and beef, while learning some tricks of the trade. Healthy Living Market & Café, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon. $20. Info, 863-2569.

Games

Family Lego Free Build: Fun-loving families flex their building muscles with an abundance of colored blocks. Ages 8-11 with parents. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See December 6.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

Library & Books

Jaquith Young Writer’s Workshop: Aspiring authors participate in three sessions of brainstorming, skill building and editing to produce their own softbound book. Ages 8-14. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 426-3581.

TinkerBelles: See December 6.

Music

Preschool Music: See December 6.

Parenting

28 WEDNESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Community

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Education Food

Library & Books

All About the Air: Naturalist Kurt Valenta takes kids on a hands-on educational tour, showcasing the magic and power of air. All ages.

Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 472-5948.

Jaquith Young Writer’s Workshop: See December 27.

Lego Club: See December 7.

Theater

‘Flip Fly Fun!’: Jugglers, acrobats, aerialists and clowns keep the audience cheering and clapping with comedic stunts. All ages. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7 p.m. $20-48. Info, 760-4634.

Traveling Storyteller: Puppeteers delight youngsters with an enjoyable tale. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

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29 THURSDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Community

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Outstanding Academics • Inspired Learning Core Academics • STEM • Global Studies • Digital Literacy • Art • Music Spanish • PE • Project based learning• Individual Learning Goals

Education

St. Albans Nurturing Father Program: See December 8.

Games

Chess Club: Teen players teach novices new moves. All ages, but children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

Library & Books

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See December 8.

Jaquith Young Writer’s Workshop: See December 27.

Stuffed-Animal Sleepover: Little ones drop off furry friends on Friday, listen to a story and create a craft. Saturday morning, kids savor a pancake breakfast and see a slideshow of their stuffies’ adventures. Fairfax Community Library, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8.

Join us for our Winter Open House Sunday, February 12th @ 3 pm

Now Enrolling K-8 for Fall 2017. Contact us to schedule a tour!

Visit our website vtdayschool.org for more information.

Email: info@vtdayschool.org. Phone: 495-5150 • 6701 Shelburne Road, Shelburne

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Kids in the Kitchen: Let’s Taco ’Bout It: Junior chefs roll up their sleeves to make a Mexican

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

KIDS VT

Young Writers & Storytellers: See December 14.

Holidays

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

Mom and Baby Yoga: See December 7.

Mother’s Gathering: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

VCBH can help

KIDSVT.COM

Adoption Support Group: Families facing adoption issues and challenges join forces in a respectful setting, on the last Tuesday of each month. Childcare and dinner provided. All welcome. Howard Center, Burlington, 5-6:30 p.m.

Free; preregister. Info, 864-7467.

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

Want to Quit Smoking?

The Vermont Center on Behavior and Health is conducting a study to help mothers quit smoking.

With your participation, you could earn up to $1,310.

If you have at least one child under the age of 12, you may qualify for this study.

To see if you qualify, go online at http://j.mp/1MSDgeE to take our online survey or call (802) 656-1906 to learn more about this study.

DEC/JAN CALENDAR Friday Free for All: See December 9.

Stuffed-Animal Sleepover: See December 29, 9:30 a.m.

30 FRIDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 8:159:15 a.m.

Community

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Games

Lego Club: See December 9.

Magic: The Gathering: See December 9.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

Happy Noon Day Party: Mini merrymakers and their parents ring in the new year with games, crafts, snacks and a special countdown at noon.

Ages 3-7. Milton Public Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon.

Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math Story Time: See December 9.

Family Story Time: See December 9.

Movies

Vacation Movie: Kids on school break relax with a PG-rated flick and popcorn. All ages.

Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See December 9.

31 SATURDAY

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

First Night Burlington: Circus arts, theater, music, the Church St. Dancing Dragons Parade at 6 p.m. and fireworks at both 6:45 p.m. and midnight make for a fun-filled New Year’s Eve

Story Times

34

KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

MONDAY Barre Children’s Story Hour: Aldrich Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-7550.

Essex Drop-In Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Hyde Park Story Time: Lanpher Memorial Library, 6 p.m.

Free. Info, 888-4628.

Northfield Children’s Story Time: Brown Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 485-4621.

Richmond Baby Lap Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

Shelburne Story Time: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 985-5124.

St. Albans Story Hour: St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Stowe Story Times for 2-3-Year-Olds: Stowe Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 253-6145.

Waitsfield Story Time: Joslin Memorial Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 496-4205.

Waterbury Baby & Toddler Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Woodstock Baby Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.

TUESDAY Alburgh Story Hour: Alburgh Public Library, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 796-6077.

Barre Children’s Story Hour: See Monday.

Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Craftsbury Story Time: Craftsbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 586-9683.

East Barre Story Time: East Barre Branch Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 476-5118.

Essex Junction Baby & Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Essex Junction Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Fairfax Preschool Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 849-2420.

Highgate Story Time: Highgate Public Library, 11 a.m.

Free. Info, 868-3970.

Hinesburg Youngsters Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 9:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Lyndonville Story Time: Cobleigh Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 626-5475.

Milton Infant Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 893-4644.

Montpelier Story Time: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

South Burlington Tiny Tot Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:15 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

celebration. All ages. Downtown Burlington, 11 a.m. $5 for kids; $18-22 for adults; free for children under 3; $42 family pack available for 2 adults and 2 children available until December 24. Additional fees required for some venues. Info, 863-6005.

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

for children under 5; road race $10-15. Info, 223-9604.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Boom! Fireworks explode over the mountain. All ages. See jaypeakresort.com for various party options. Jay Peak Resort, 9 p.m. Free. Info, 327-2596.

Food

Nature & Science

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

First Night St. Johnsbury: Thousands of revelers convene for first-rate entertainment, from the amazing feats of Nimble Arts’ Ruckus Circus to the Family Fun Fair at the St. Johnsbury School from 4-8 p.m. All ages. Downtown St. Johnsbury, 4 p.m.-midnight. $10-20 First Night button; free for children under 5. Info, 748-2600.

Montpelier New Year’s Eve: The capital city rings in the new year with a 5K run at 2 p.m., followed by a magic show, and fireworks at 7:30 p.m. on the State House lawn. All ages.

Downtown Montpelier, $5 for magic show; free

Bird-Monitoring Walk: Eagle-eyed participants bring binoculars to search the museum’s property for fluttering feathers. Best for adults and older children. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 8-9 a.m. Free; donations welcome; preregister. Info, 434-2167.

Tour the Cosmos: See December 10.

JANUARY 1 SUNDAY

Happy New Year Community

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Early literacy skills get special attention during these read-aloud sessions.

Some locations provide additional activities such as music, crafts or foreign-language instruction.

Most story times follow the school calendar. Contact the story time organizers for site-specific details.

Williston Story Time: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Woodstock Preschool Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m.

Free. Info, 457-2295.

WEDNESDAY Barnes & Noble Story Time: Barnes & Noble, 11 a.m. Free.

Info, 864-8001.

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday, 10 a.m.

Hyde Park Story Time: See Monday, 10 a.m.

Lyndonville Story Time: See Tuesday, 10:30 a.m.

Marshfield Story Time & Playgroup: Jaquith Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 426-3581.

Milton Rhythm & Movement Toddler Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 893-4644.

Norwich Story Time: Norwich Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 649-1184.

Quechee Story Time: Quechee Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 295-1232.

Randolph Preschool Story Time: Kimball Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073.

Richmond Story Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 434-3036.

South Burlington Baby Book Time: South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 652-7080.

Stowe Story Time for 3-5-Year-Olds: Stowe Free Library, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free.

Info, 253-6145.

Swanton Storytime: Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m.

Free. Info, 868-7656.

Warren Preschool Story & Enrichment Hour: Warren Public Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 595-2582.

THURSDAY Bristol Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.

Franklin Story Time: Haston Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Hinesburg Youngsters Story Time: See Tuesday.

Northfield Children’s Story Time: See Monday.

Rutland Story Time: Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 a.m.

Free. Info, 773-1860.

Shelburne Musical Story Time: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday.

Vergennes Story Time: Bixby Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 877-2211.

Waterbury Preschool Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Westford Story Time: Westford Public Library, 11 a.m.

Free. Info, 878-5639.

Submit your February events for print by January 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

FRIDAY Brandon Story Time: Brandon Free Public Library, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 247-8230.

Craftsbury Story Time: See Tuesday.

Enosburgh Mommy & Me Story Hour: Enosburgh Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free.

Info, 933-2328.

Essex Musical Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Georgia Preschool Story Time: Georgia Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Huntington Story Time: Huntington Public Library, 10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 434-4583.

Killington Storytime: Sherburne Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 422-9765.

Lincoln Story Time: Lincoln Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.

Milton Preschool Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday.

Randolph Toddler Story Time: Kimball Public Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073.

South Burlington Pajamarama: Barnes & Noble, 7 p.m.

Free. Info, 864-8001.

St. Johnsbury Story Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

Stowe Baby & Toddler Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free.

Info, 253-6145.

Swanton Storytime: See Wednesday, 10 a.m.

Winooski Story Time: Winooski Memorial Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

SATURDAY Barre Story Time: Next Chapter Bookstore, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 476-3114.

Burlington Story Time at Phoenix Books: Phoenix Books, 11 a.m.-noon. Free.

Info, 448-3350.

Colchester Saturday DropIn Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 264-5660.

Enosburgh Story Hour: Enosburgh Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2328.

Essex Whole Book Approach Storytime: Phoenix Books, 11 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 872-7111.

Franklin Walk-in Story Hour: Haston Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Milton Drop-In Saturday Storytime: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

FirstRun 5K & Youth Fun Run: Families greet 2017 with their best foot forward at this jaunty, costumed race. Registration and packet pickup, 9-10:45 a.m.; kids’ fun runs, 10:30 a.m.; 5K, 11 a.m.; afterparty, 11:30 a.m.

(See spotlight.) Ages 4 and up. Burlington Town Center, 9 a.m. $30-35; no fee for Fun Run but registration required. Info, 863-8412.

Parenting See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.

2 MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Education

Enosburgh Nurturing Parent Program: See December 12.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See December 12.

Essex Lego Club: See December 12.

Milton Legos at the Library: See December 19, 3:30-5 p.m.

Music

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See December 12.

Spanish Musical Kids: See December 12.

Parenting

A Circle of Parents: Moms and dads come together to socialize and strengthen parenting skills. New Life Fellowship Church, Milton, 6:308 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 498-0607.

3 TUESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Dance

Family Yoga Dance: See December 6.

Chess Club: See December 6.

Family Game Night: See December 6.

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See December 6.

Library & Books

Music

Preschool Music: See December 6.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

Mom and Baby Yoga: See December 7.

Mother’s Gathering: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Education

••

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11/29/16 12:37 PM

Vermont Catamounts

Reading Buddies: See December 7.

Food

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7.

Games

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See December 7.

Library & Books

Dorothy’s List Book Club: Middle-grade readers make merry conversation around DCF picks. Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Lego Club: See December 7.

Read to a Dog: See December 7.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories at ECHO: See December 7.

5 THURSDAY

F r e e UNDER

& ids 12 for k

JOIN RALLY’S ROUND UP!

VERMONT ATHLETICS OFFICIAL KIDS CLUB PRESENTED BY ESSEX FAMILY DENTAL

benefitssincludee

Baby & Maternity

Essex La Leche League: Moms bring their little ones to a discussion of parenting and breastfeeding. Siblings welcome. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8 p.m. Free.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Education

Audubon Homeschool Program: Home-based learners use the outdoor classroom to explore a variety of seasonal topics, from insect life to bird habitat. Ages 6-8. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $25; $15 each additional sibling; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

St. Albans Nurturing Father Program: See December 8.

Games

Chess Club: See December 8.

Lego Club: See December 8.

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Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See December 8.

Say you saw it in

35

5 THURSDAY, P.36

KIDS VT

Crafternoon: See December 6.

Middle School Planners & Helpers: See December 6.

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See December 6.

TinkerBelles: See December 6.

••

holistic approach

Baby & Maternity

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Games

preschool - 6th grade

4 WEDNESDAY

KIDSVT.COM

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Adoption Support Group: See December 6.

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

JAN

CALENDAR

5 THURSDAY (CONTINUED)

PJ Story Time: Children chill in their jammies while crafting and listening to stories. Ages 6 and under. Fairfax Community Library, 6-7 p.m.

Free. Info, 849-2420.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See December 8.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8.

6 FRIDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 8:159:15 a.m.

Community

Kids’ Night Out: See December 9.

Games

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 1011:30 a.m.

Community

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 11.

9 MONDAY

‘Brown Bear, Brown Bear & Other Treasured Stories’: Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia brings Eric Carle’s beloved stories to the stage with puppetry and original music. All ages. Moore Theater, Hopkins Center for the Arts, Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H., 3 p.m. $13-18. Info, 603-646-2422.

Arts & Crafts

Crafts for Kids: See December 12.

Baby & Maternity

Dance

Family Yoga Dance: See December 6.

Education

Read to Willy Wonka the Chocolate Lab: See December 13.

Games

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See December 6.

Parenting

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

11 WEDNESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Food

Capital City Winter Farmers Market: See December 17.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See December 10.

Library & Books

First Saturday StoryTime: Little bookworms have a blast with stories, crafts and snacks. All ages. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 472-5948.

Audubon Homeschool Program: See December 8.

St. Albans Nurturing Father Program: See December 8.

Games

Chess Club: See December 8.

Lego Club: See December 8.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:457:15 p.m.

Mom and Baby Yoga: See December 7.

Mother’s Gathering: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Library & Books

Education

13 FRIDAY

Health & Fitness

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Community

Education

Preschool Music: See December 6.

7 SATURDAY

Community

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Music

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Baby & Maternity

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See December 6.

TinkerBelles: See December 6.

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See December 9.

Baby & Maternity

12 THURSDAY

Full Moon Sleigh Rides: Pat Palmer of Thorn­ apple Farm and a team of Percheron draft horses lead an excursion under the winter sky. All ages.

Shelburne Farms, 5:30, 6:05 & 6:40 p.m. $8-10; free for children under 3; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Library & Books

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Kids Building Workshop: Handy helpers learn do-it-yourself skills and tool safety as they construct seasonal projects. Ages 5-12. Home Depot, Williston, 9 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister at workshops.homedepot.com. Info, 872-0039.

KIDSVT.COM

Baby & Maternity

Library & Books

Arts & Crafts

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

8 SUNDAY

Theater

Music

KIDS VT

Playdate! Winter on the Farm: Little ones have a hoot with indoor educational activities and a visit from a live owl. Ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult.

Shelburne Farms, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $3-5 per child; free for adults; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Lego Club: See December 9.

Essex Junction Magic: The Gathering: Planeswalkers seek knowledge and glory in this trading-card game. New players welcome.

Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Magic: The Gathering: See December 9.

All Ages Story Time: See December 9.

Early Bird Math Story Time: See December 9.

Family Story Time: See December 9.

Friday Free for All: See December 9.

Teen Advisory Board: Teens team up to plan programs. Grades 9 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

36

Nature & Science

Young Writers & Storytellers: See December 14.

Food

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See December 8.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See December 8.

St. Albans Library Legos: See December 8.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 8:159:15 a.m.

Games

Education

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See December 12.

Essex Lego Club: See December 12.

Colchester Dungeons & Dragons Night: See December 14.

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See December 7.

Lego Club: See December 14.

Forest Preschool Open House: Interested families check out ‘Forest Camp,’ meet educators and cozy up around a campfire with a cup of hot cocoa. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3068.

Music

Library & Books

Games

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See December 12.

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

Audubon Nature Playgroup: See December 12.

10 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Sewing Club: Aspiring seamstresses try out a sewing machine and stitch a project. Ages 10 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington La Leche League: See December 13.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

La Leche League of the Northeast Kingdom: See December 13.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Group for Homeschooled Students: See December 14.

Family Fun Night: The whole gang turns out for games, Legos, crafts and more. All ages. CarpenterCarse Library, Hinesburg, 5-6:30 p.m. Free; pizza available with preregistration. Info, 482-2878.

Green Mountain Book Award Book Discussion for Homeschooled Students: See December 14.

Lego Club: See December 7.

Red Clover Group for Homeschooled Students: See December 14.

Music

Song Circle: Community Sing-Along: See December 14.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories at ECHO: See December 7.

Submit your February events for print by January 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

Dungeons & Dragons: Players embark on invented adventures, equipped with their problem-solving skills. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Lego Club: See December 9.

Magic: The Gathering: See December 9.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math Story Time: See December 9.

Family Story Time: See December 9.

Friday Free for All: See December 9.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: See December 16.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See December 9.

14 SATURDAY

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

Kids Trade & Play: See December 10.

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Fairs & Festivals

Fairs & Festivals See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Stowe Winter Carnival: A Vermont ski town gets its party on with cold-weather fun for all ages, from snow-volleyball tournaments to ice-carving competitions to Kids Karnival Kaos. Various locations, Stowe. See stowewintercarnival.com for details and schedule. Info, 253-7321.

Vermont Fancy Felines: Cat-lovers take in a purr-fect parade of different breeds, with judging in a variety of classes. All ages. Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $5-7; free for children under 6. Info, vermontfancyfelinesinc.org.

Food

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Vermont Fancy Felines: See January 14.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 11.

16 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Crafternoon: Peace Quilt: Community-minded kiddos design a square to be sewn into the library’s patchwork blanket. Ages 6 and up.

Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: See December 10.

Norwich Winter Farmers Market: See December 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Games

Fairs & Festivals

Chess Club: See December 29.

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Health & Fitness

Health & Fitness

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See December 10.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Library & Books

Second Saturdays: See December 10.

Milton Legos at the Library: See December 19.

Music

17 TUESDAY

Laurie Berkner: Greatest Hits Tour: The queen of preschool indie rock gets an audience of all ages dancing and clapping. Bring a stuffed animal friend. Higher Ground, South Burlington, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. $25-50. Info, 415-334-2787.

Nature & Science

Plattsburgh Preschool Story Hour: See December 20.

Baby & Maternity

Breastfeeding Café: See December 20.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

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12/1/16 2:50 PM

FAMILY FUN TIME AT THE YMCA Escape winter’s cold in our 88° pool!

• Weekly Family Swim and Family Gym • Member Discounts on Personal Training, Swim Lessons, Family Events, Birthday Parties, etc.

More information, www.gbymca.org or 652-9622

Community

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration: Freeto-everyone family-friendly programming in partnership with Burlington’s Americorps team honors the legacy of Dr. King. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 877-324-6386.

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Faith—Academics—Service Open House February 15, 2017 8:30—11am

Dance

Family Yoga Dance: See December 6.

Fairs & Festivals

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Games

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See December 6.

Baby & Maternity

Library & Books

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See December 6.

TinkerBelles: See December 6.

Music

Preschool Music: See December 6.

Preschool-Grade 8

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

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Arts & Crafts

15 SUNDAY Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10-11:30 a.m.

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KIDSVT.COM

Full Moon Snowshoe Hike: Hot chocolate fuels walkers for a sparkling stroll beneath lunar light. Snowshoes provided. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 7-8:30 p.m. $5-10; preregistration recommended. Info, 229-6206.

Winter Wildlife Celebration: Outdoor enthusiasts explore exhibits and wintery trails with interactive guided tours and talks in the morning, followed by afternoon indoor and outdoor games, crafts and a campfire with treats. All ages. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $12.50-14.50; free for children under 4. Info, 359-5000.

Winter Wildlife Detectives: Young naturalists learn about animals who are active in the colder months, then search for tracks, scat and pellets around the farm. Ages 5 and up.

Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-noon. $10-12 per parent-child pair; $5-6 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

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CALENDAR Games

17 TUESDAY (CONTINUED)

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See December 7.

Parenting

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

18 WEDNESDAY

Library & Books

Lego Club: See December 7.

Little One & Me Circle Time: See December 21.

Pajama Story Time: See December 21.

Read to a Dog: See December 7.

Movies

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:457:15 p.m.

Mom and Baby Yoga: See December 7.

Mother’s Gathering: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Children’s Film Night: Cinema lovers of all ages take in a short flick before a community dinner is served. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 5:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Marshfield Family-Themed Movies: See December 21.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories at ECHO: See December 7.

Education

Parenting

Reading Buddies: See December 7.

Breastfeeding Families Group: See December 21.

Fairs & Festivals

19 THURSDAY

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Food

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Games

Chess Club: See December 8.

Lego Club: See December 8.

Babywearing Playgroup: See December 15.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7.

KIDSVT.COM DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 KIDS VT

38

Burlington Crawlers & Toddlers: VNA Family Room, 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 862-2121.

Burlington Playgroup: Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 578-6471.

Cambridge Playgroup: Cambridge Elementary School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School Early Education Program, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Milton Playgroup: Milton Public Library, Thursdays, 9:30-11 a.m.

Free. Info, 893-1457.

Morrisville Playgroup: Morristown Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Open Gym: Central VT Gymnastics Academy, Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m. $7. Info, 882-8324.

TUESDAY Bradford Playgroup: Grace United Methodist Church, 9-11 a.m.

Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

Burlington Dads’ Night: VNA Family Room, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington New Moms Playgroup: Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, 12:15-2 p.m.

Free. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

WEDNESDAY ArtisTree Playgroup: Purple Crayon/ArtisTree, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Free; donations accepted. Info, 457-3500.

Burlington Infant Massage: VNA Family Room, 11 a.m.-noon, Free.

Info, 862-2121.

Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

Colchester Playgroup: Colchester Village Meeting House, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 316-2918.

Essex Baby Playgroup: Sunset Studio, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrop Memorial Library, 1011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 827-3945.

Hinesburg Family Playtime: Hinesburg Town Hall, 10-11:30 a.m. Free.

Richmond Playgroup: Richmond Free Library, 8:45-10:15 a.m. Free.

Info, 899-4415.

Fairs & Festivals

Library & Books

Lego Club: See December 9.

Magic: The Gathering: See December 9.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See December 8.

PJ Story Hour: See December 15.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See December 8.

Music

Nature & Science

Tricky Tracks: Junior naturalists investigate the comings and goings of feathered and furry

Games

Library & Books

All Ages Story Time: See December 9.

Early Bird Math Story Time: See December 9.

Family Story Time: See December 9.

Friday Free for All: See December 9.

Jiggity Jog: See December 16.

Movies

Family Movie: See December 16.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See December 9.

Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers, and caregivers connect with other local parents and peers.

The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts, or music. Most playgroups follow the school calendar.

Contact the playgroup organizer for site-specific details.

Essex Junction Playgroup: Maple Street Recreation Center, Thursdays, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 876-7555.

Jericho Playgroup: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Winooski Playtime: O’Brien Community Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

Wolcott Playgroup: Wolcott Depot Center Preschool, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Playgroups

MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Health & Fitness

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8.

Baby & Maternity

20 FRIDAY

Fairs & Festivals

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

friends. Ages 3-5 with adult companion. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

Shelburne Playgroup: Trinity Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m.

Free.

South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

St. Johnsbury Toddler Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 748-8291, ext. 303.

THURSDAY Alburgh Playgroup: Alburgh Public Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

Burlington Drop-In Family Play: VNA Family Room, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Free. Info, 862-2121.

Essex Junction Playgroup: See Tuesday.

Hinesburg Baby Time: United Church of Hinesburg, 10-11:30 a.m. Free.

Johnson Playgroup: United Church of Johnson, 9:30-11 a.m.

Free. Info, 888-5229.

Milton Playgroup: See Monday.

Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 9-11 a.m.

Free. Info, 527-5426.

Ohavi Zedek Synagogue Playgroup: Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 864-0218.

Randolph Playgroup: St. John’s Church, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

Williston Play Time: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m.noon, Free. Info, 878-4918.

Winooski Playtime: See Tuesday.

FRIDAY Colchester Playgroup: See Wednesday.

Hinesburg Preschool Playgroup: Hinesburg Community School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-4946.

Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 899-4415.

Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 347-1780.

Open Gym: See Monday.

Randolph Toddler Time: Kimball Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 728-5073.

Rutland Playgroup: Rutland Free Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Stowe Playgroup: Stowe Community Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 888-5229.

Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 899-4415.

Nature & Science

Montshire Unleashed: An Evening for Adults: The museum opens its doors after hours so grown-ups can let their inner curiosity go wild.

Beer, wine and food available for purchase.

Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6-9 p.m. $15 museum admission; free for members.

Info, 649-2200.

Starry, Starry Night: Families face upward for a winter evening of stargazing and moon watching. Dress warmly. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 7-9 p.m. $10-12. Info, 229-6206.

Theater

‘Biscuit’: This puppy from the beloved children’s books makes new friends and a bit of mischief in a merry musical. Chandler Music Hall, Randolph, 10 a.m. $6. Info, 728-6464.

21 SATURDAY

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

Shelburne Winterfest: Sledding, snow play and tasty treats reward the hearty folks who brave the chilly temps for outdoor fun. All ages.

Shelburne Farms, 12-3 p.m. Free admission; donations accepted for Shelburne Parks & Recreation. Info, 985-8686.

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Fairs & Festivals

SATURDAY

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Morrisville Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 888-5229.

Food

Capital City Winter Farmers Market: See December 17.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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39

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JAN

CALENDAR Tour the Cosmos: See December 10.

Essex Lego Club: See December 12.

‘Star Wars’ Club: See December 19.

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See December 10.

23 MONDAY

Music

Nature & Science

Arts & Crafts

22 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

21 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)

Health & Fitness

Tour the Cosmos: See December 10.

Nature & Science

Crafts for Kids: See December 12.

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See December 12.

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8, 11 a.m.

Spanish Musical Kids: See December 12.

Nature & Science

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 1011:30 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:457 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Community

Fairs & Festivals

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Fairs & Festivals

Health & Fitness

Dance

Baby & Maternity

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Health & Fitness

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See December 12.

COURTESY OF ESSEX COMMUNITY PLAYERS

Essex Open Gym: See December 11.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Audubon Nature Playgroup: See December 12.

24 TUESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Family Yoga Dance: See December 6.

Education

Read to Willy Wonka the Chocolate Lab: See December 13.

Fairs & Festivals

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Games

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See December 6.

Library & Books

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See December 6.

TinkerBelles: See December 6.

Music

Preschool Music: See December 6.

Parenting

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

25 WEDNESDAY

KIDSVT.COM

When A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS debuted on television in December of 1965, critics predicted that the animated flick, which used child actors for the characters’ voices and didn’t have a laugh track, would flop. Instead, the show earned a devoted following and, more than 50 years later, has become a holiday classic. This December, the Essex Community Players present the story to a new generation of fans in a production featuring a live performance of jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi’s famous “Peanuts” music and a multigenerational cast ranging from teenagers to grandparents. In the show, Charlie discovers the true meaning of Christmas — thanks to a tiny Tannenbaum and the friendship of Linus, Snoopy and the rest of the gang.

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KIDS VT

A ‘Peanuts’ Production

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Arts & Crafts

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS: Friday, December 9, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 10, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, December 11, 2 p.m., at Memorial Hall in Essex Junction. $14-18. All ages. Info, 878-9109. essexplayers.com

Pop In for Pop-Up Cards: Local crafter Ellen Bressler shares simple techniques for 3D Valentine’s Day masterpieces. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:457:15 p.m.

Mom and Baby Yoga: See December 7.

Mother’s Gathering: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Education

Young Writers & Storytellers: See December 14.

Games

Colchester Dungeons & Dragons Night: See December 14.

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See December 7.

Lego Fun: See December 28.

Library & Books

Lego Club: See December 7.

STEM Club: Science-minded types challenge their imaginations with themed activities. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m.

Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories at ECHO: See December 7.

26 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Preschool Art Drop-In: Petite Picassos craft cool projects. Ages 6 months-5 years with accompanying adult. BCA Center, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5-6. Info, 865-7166.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Fairs & Festivals

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Games

Chess Club: See December 8.

Lego Club: See December 8.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See December 8.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See December 8.

St. Albans Library Legos: See December 8.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8.

Nature & Science

Ice Fishing: Area angler Jim Barlow shares his know-how about techniques and tools. On Saturday, January 28, a group heads out to a local lake to try out their skills. Call the library for location. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

27 FRIDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 8:159:15 a.m.

Fairs & Festivals

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Games

Fairs & Festivals

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Dungeons & Dragons: See January 13.

Lego Club: See December 9.

Magic: The Gathering: See December 9.

Food

Library & Books

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7.

Early Bird Math Story Time: See December 9.

Family Story Time: See December 9.

Friday Free for All: See December 9.

Nature & Science

Songs & Stories With Matthew: See December 16.

Movies

Friday Afternoon Movie: See December 23.

Tour the Cosmos: See December 10.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See December 9.

28 SATURDAY

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Fairs & Festivals

Stowe Winter Carnival: See January 14.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: See December 10.

Norwich Winter Farmers Market: See December 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See December 10.

Nature & Science

Astronomy Day: What’s up in the night sky? A full day of celestial activities covers topics for all starry-eyed ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Free with museum admission, $12-14; free for children under 2. Info, 649-1114.

Bird-Monitoring Walk: See December 31.

Free Ice Fishing Day Festival: Anglers of all ages try ice fishing and enjoy a locally grown fish fry. Hoyts Landing Wildlife Management Area, Springfield, 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Free. Info, 828-1000.

Tour the Cosmos: See December 10.

Theater

‘Cinderella’: 55 dancers from the State Ballet Theater of Russia delight the audience with the magical story of a princess’ transformation from rags to riches. Ages 6 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7 p.m. $20-75.

Info, 760-4634.

Baby & Maternity

Community

Sleigh Rides: See December 24.

Fairs & Festivals

December 7.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 8.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See December 12.

Essex Lego Club: See December 12.

Lab Girls: Young women empower themselves by exploring science through hands-on experiments. Grades 6-12. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Music

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See December 12.

Music for Preschoolers: See December 8, 11 a.m.

Spanish Musical Kids: See December 12.

Nature & Science

Audubon Nature Playgroup: See December 12.

31 TUESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See December 6.

Dance

Family Yoga Dance: See December 6.

Games

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See December 6.

Library & Books

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See December 6.

TinkerBelles: See December 6.

Music

Preschool Music: See December 6.

Parenting

Adoption Support Group: See December 27.

Milton Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

St. Albans Nurturing Parent Program: See December 6.

Say you saw it in

KIDS VT

Ice on Fire Festival: The community pays tribute to the snowy season with a parade, games, outdoor theater, singing, storytelling and a huge bonfire. All ages. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 2-5 p.m. $1-5 suggested donation.

Info, 229-6206.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See December 6, 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See December 6, 10-11:30 a.m.

Baby & Maternity

KIDSVT.COM

29 SUNDAY

30 MONDAY

Health & Fitness

41

Essex Open Gym: See December 11.

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Reindeer Up-Close

with Vermont Reindeer Farm Monday, Dec. 26

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YOU GIVE. WE GIVE.

MEMBERSHIP MATCHING PROGRAM By purchasing or renewing a membership, ECHO will give an equally-valued membership to a Vermont family that would not otherwise be able to participate in science education and play.

echovt.org

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My kids are now 10, 12, and 13, and I look at every page, ads and calendar listings included, and read most articles every single month.

GET IN THE NEXT ISSUE! CALL 985-5482 TO ADVERTISE.

Valerie Wood-Lewis Burlington

CO-FOUNDER, FRONT PORCH FORUM

42

KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

I see stories that are more relevant to those with younger kids, and I just marvel at the very fine balance you've mastered at effectively delivering enough for parents of kids of all ages. I can't think of another publication that I read that does that — they each have a more limited life span for me.

I find so much of value, clip lots of things, follow up on several of them each month. My copy after reading looks like I was cutting out words for a ransom note! Thank you, thank you, thank you to your hard working, excellent team for creating a fantastic product and service for families!

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Q HABITAT

SPONSORED BY

B Y DARCIE AB B E NE

Alpine Accents SKIING BROUGHT WENDY AND COLIN MCCREIGHT together: The couple met in 2007, while standing on a ski-gear rental line at REI in Boston. Two years later, they were married.

Today they live in Stowe with their two sons, 4-year-old Eli and 2-year-old Toby. A restored ski-lift chair with a sign announcing their house number sits in a grassy area between the driveway and their home, which is filled with ski-themed décor.

In the kids’ playroom, for example, a wall behind the pellet stove is decorated with old skis.

The couple procured them at consignment stores, Craigslist and the dump. With a budget of $400, they enlisted Shelburne contractor David Bertrand to figure out how to affix them to the wall in a visually appealing way.

They considered lining up the

skis vertically behind the stove, but didn’t like the way the ski tips poked out of the wall. So Bertrand used a circular saw to cut the skis into a fun, mountain-shaped design.

“He was very artsy and playful with it,” Wendy explains.

It took Bertrand about a week — and 25 pairs of backcountry, alpine and telemark skis — to complete the project. He sanded the sharp metal ski edges and used bolts and heavy-duty glue to secure the skis to the wall. Some still bear their Telemark bindings. As a finishing touch, Wendy added a few stickers from the family’s favorite ski resorts.

The final result makes the whole family happy and is durable enough to endure Eli and Toby’s toy screwdrivers and hammers.

“We love to ski,” Eli says. “Skis are everywhere in our house!”K

Here are some of the creative ways the McCreights have incorporated skis into their home:

Ski-lift chair with house number

25 pairs of skis were mounted behind the playroom’s pellet stove

Ski-tip-adorned ventilation holes

• Ventilation holes: To allow warm air from the playroom to drift upstairs, the McCreights cut three holes in the top of the wall opposite the pellet stove and positioned ski tips in the center of each hole.

• Mounted coatracks: In the mudroom, Colin attached two skis horizontally to the wall at kids’ height and screwed metal hooks into them.

PHOTOS: JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR

• Standing coatracks: Upright crosscountry skis attached to a square block make a great place for hanging hats.

Colin made a smaller version using kids’ skis as a gift for friends.

• Decorations: Three vintage wooden skis scored on Craigslist adorn the upstairs hallway.

“Habitat” celebrates places where Vermont families live and play. Got a sweet space you’d like us to see? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

KIDSVT.COM

This is Home.

12/1/16 10:10 AM

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KIDS VT

Bringing Vermonters home for over 45 years.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

THIS IS WHERE AWESOMENESS HAPPENS.

HANDS ON

Writing Contest Sponsored by

Cabin life promotes community and team work

All-elective program encourages self-confidence and decision making.

Calling all writers!

Many people make resolutions — or promises to do something — at the beginning of a new year.

Tell us about your New Year’s resolution or your special wish for 2017. What are you hoping to accomplish in the next 12 months, and how will you make it happen? As an alternative, tell us about your hope for the future.

_______________________________________________________________ Campers at Betsy Cox and Sangamon have real independence.

They make ALL their own choices every activity period, every day.

_______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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_______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

We’ll pick two winners and publish their names and poems in the next issue.

Winners receive a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop. Deadline to enter is January 15.

Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Writing Contest, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

44

KIDS VT

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Name ________________________________ Age __________________________________ Town ________________________________ Email ________________________________ Phone ________________________________

14 Church Street Burlington crowbooks.com 862-0848

ANSWERS P. 47

PUZZLE PAGE Jumble

BY DAVID L. HOYT & JEFF KNUREK

Birthday Club These winners get gift certificates to:

The letters of these crazy words are all mixed up. To play the game, put them back into the right order so that they make real words you can find in your dictionary. Write the letters of each real word under each crazy word, but only one letter to a square.

Congratulations

to these December/ January Birthday Club winners!

SAM lives in Burlington and turned 11 on December 2. He’s a major soccer fan who also enjoys political humor. He aspires to be the next Paul Pogba or John Oliver.

Sam wins entry for two to Petra Cliffs’ Friday Night Kids Club.

You are now ready to solve this month’s Jumble For Kids. Study the picture for a hint. Then play around with the letters in the circles. You’ll find you can put them in order so that they make your funny answer.

LEXI lives in South Burlington and turned 7 on December 5. She loves warm cider doughnuts, climbing apple trees, soccer and tennis. She has an impressive memory and a competitive edge but takes pride in her good sportsmanship.

Puzzles4Kids

SAWYER lives in Essex and turns 7 on January 3. He loves coloring, doing puzzles, and growing his own flowers and veggies.

He enjoys watching documentaries to grow his knowledge on different topics and likes many sports, including soccer, biking, fishing, golf and bowling.

KIDSVT.COM DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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: Why did Rudolph do so well in school?

Riddle Answer:

45

HANNA lives in Williston and turns 10 on January 23. She’s a creative and talented artist, an avid skier and hiker, and an aspiring snowboarder. She just completed her first Spartan Race at Fenway Park.

KIDS VT

PASTE PENCILS PENS RULER SCISSORS STAPLER TAPE TISSUES

Lexi, Sawyer and Hanna each win a day pass to Petra Cliffs.

BY HELENA HOVANEC

Riddle Search — SCHOOL SUPPLIES

BINDERS CALCULATOR CARDS CASE CRAYONS ERASERS FOLDERS GLUE NOTEBOOKS PAPER

To enter, submit information using the online form at kidsvt.com/birthday-club.

Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled.

Print your answer here:

Maze

Join the Club!

COLORING CONTEST! Three winners will each receive an annual family membership to the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium.

Send Kids VT your work of art by January 15. Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 5 and younger, (2) ages 6-8 and (3) ages 9-12. Winners will be named in the February issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com, or mail a copy to Kids VT, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

HANDS ON Title _______________________________________________ Artist _____________________________________________ Age _______________________________________________ Town _____________________________________________ Email _____________________________________________

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KIDS VT

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

KIDSVT.COM

Phone _____________________________________________

Q USE YOUR WORDS B Y AB IGAIL M NO O KIN

CALENDAR 8v-calendar.indd 1

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PUZZLE PAGE ANSWERS (SEE P.45)

KIDS VT

47

“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.

Submit your info

by January 15 online at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com

JUMBLES TOY. CARD. VENT. WISH.

Would we teach our children to believe in a God we were unsure of ourselves?

List your events for free in the Kids VT monthly calendar.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

would we have a regular observance, like weekly Shabbat dinners? Did we need a community to celebrate with, and, if so, would we find one in southern Vermont? Would our children be bar or bat mitzvahed? Could we promote Jewish culture while simultaneously resisting Israeli policies, including the Palestinian occupation?

And then there was the question of God. Would we teach our children to believe in a God we were unsure of ourselves? And if not, were we still Jewish?

Asking difficult questions like these is central to Judaism. And today, with a 4-and-a-half-year-old and a 7-month-old, we’re still trying to figure out the answers.

Weekly Shabbat dinners have become a tradition in our home. We say blessings over candles, wine and challah bread, which we sometimes knead and braid ourselves. Throughout the week, we sing songs we’ve learned from attending Tot Shabbat services for young kids at my parents’ temple.

We also choose to observe the Sabbath in our own way. Our days and weeks as working mothers fill up quickly — fulfilling professional tasks and deadlines, parenting two kids, maintaining a home and garden, attending board meetings, and, when I’m lucky, finding time to write.

In most cases, these activities involve email, lots and lots of email. So every Saturday, we take a break from monitoring our inboxes. We haven’t eliminated cellphone and computer use — yet. But even a refuge from email provides much-needed breathing space and time to nurture each other and ourselves.

Though Jewish practices are already part of our lives, we decided to hold the communal mikvah for the four grandchildren to honor my mom. I birthed my older daughter, so she’s considered Jewish. But since my wife gave birth to our younger daughter, she’s not. To be inclusive, we’ll have both girls join their cousins in the ceremony.

The mikvah makes my mom feel even more connected to our Jewish heritage, and she has already expressed tremendous gratitude to us. I’m looking forward to giving her this gift.

Even so, as my wife and I prepare for the rite, we’re still figuring out what it means for us to raise our daughters as Jews. I’m reassured by the words of Rabbi Edward Feinstein is his book, Tough Questions Jews Ask: A Young Adult’s Guide to Building a Jewish Life: “Every day I wonder why I’m a Jew. But that’s part of being Jewish …Wrestling, asking, wondering, searching is just what God wants us to do!”

As my daughters get older, I imagine more questions will arise — on my part and theirs. But, in keeping with Jewish teaching, I’ll take that as a sign not to give up, but to persist. K

KIDSVT.COM

FOR MY MOM’S 70TH BIRTHDAY this month, my brother and I are giving her an unusual gift. Her four grandchildren will be immersed in a ritual bath, or mikvah, which symbolizes their conversion to the Jewish faith. Temple clergy will be there, along with our families. The festive celebration will include blessings for the children and joyful songs. And it will mean a lot to my mother.

My brother and I grew up Jewish, and we both married non-Jews. Our children are considered Jewish in our families, as well as in the more liberal Reform Judaism. But in Conservative Judaism and according to the Torah’s teachings, one must be born to a Jewish mother in order to be considered a Jew. To my mother, this is an important distinction.

I was raised in a home in which Reform Judaism played a supporting role. We observed the major Jewish holidays — Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Passover. When we turned 12, my brothers and I studied to become bar and bat mitzvahs. We didn’t take part in the Sabbath, the Jewish day of rest and worship, on Saturday. But we had weekly Shabbat dinners; in high school, we were expected to be home for these Friday-night meals before we could go out with friends.

After my siblings and I moved out of our childhood home, Judaism took on a more central role in my parents’ lives.

They switched from a Reform temple at a nearby university to a more observant Conservative one in their neighborhood, where they attended weekly services and Talmud classes.

They began to observe additional Jewish holidays and twice traveled to Israel with their temple.

My mom jokes that when she found out I was going to marry my wife, Laura, she struggled more with the fact that my partner wasn’t Jewish than she did with the fact that she was a woman. Laura’s Unitarian Universalist upbringing was more spiritual and nature-based than religious. Her family did have traditions with Easter eggs and Christmas trees, but they mostly celebrated religious holidays by spending time outdoors and hiking in the woods.

Even before we had children, Laura and I discussed our future family’s religious affiliation. Would we celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or both? Would we have Passover seders or Easter dinners? Like many interfaith couples — nearly 40 percent of people married since 2010, according to a 2014 Pew Research Center study — we compromised.

We would alternate winter holidays with each of our families. We wouldn’t have a Christmas tree in our home.

And, due to the stronger ties I had to my cultural and religious upbringing and our shared appreciation for Jewish rituals, we would raise our children to be Jewish.

But how devout would we be? Many questions remained: Would we celebrate only the most significant holidays, or

RIDDLE ANSWER: How does the ocean say goodbye to swimmers?

—IT WAVES

How compromise, curiosity and tradition guide one interfaith family

Planning a kids event?

RIDDLE SEARCH ANSWER: He nose a lot.

Keeping the Faith

Heartworks

Renaissance

Endeavour

Infant to Pre-Kindergarten Program

Kindergarten - Fifth Grade

Sixth - Eighth Grade

Heartworks Preschools emphasize kindness, respect and a positive learning environment.

Children have extensive time to play while engaged in learning. We offer an incredibly fun afternoon STEAM program, and an excellent Kindergarten Readiness program.

Renaissance students achieve academic excellence, develop a strong moral character, social and life skills in fun and engaging ways that bring joy to learning. Core academics, art, music, drama, French, Spanish, PE and character development occur inside and outside the classroom.

Learn: renaissancevt.com

PRESCHOOL

Shelburne, Burlington, Williston and Stowe Discover: heartworksvt.com

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

MIDDLE SCHOOL

A rich and engaging academic and extra­ curricular program for 6th to 8th graders, the Endeavour experience supports the unique journey of discovery and exploration middle school students navigate with a special emphasis on building important social, emotional and life skills to ensure success in high school and college.

Explore: endeavourvt.com

9/30/16 10:15 AM