Kids VT — July 2018 by Kids VT

GOOD ITIZEN JULY 2018

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VOL.25 NO.06

THE

ISSUE

Ahead of the Herd Carrying on the ox-pulling tradition PAGE 13

RAISING BEES IN THE BACKYARD

50+ YEARS TEACHING ANIMAL SCIENCE

CELEBRATING FRANKLIN COUNTYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAIRY HERITAGE

PAGE 11

PAGE 20

PAGE 32

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CHALLENGE C HALLENGE

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+ FLYNN

DAY CAMPS

JULY

6-10 Monday-Friday Flynn Day Camp for Ages 9-13

9-13 Monday-Friday

Disney’s Frozen Kids Pilot

Flynn Day Camp for Ages 4-5

The Magic Toybox

6-10 Monday-Friday [JUST ADDED]

9-13 Monday-Friday

Poets on Stage

Flynn Day Camp for Ages 9-13

Flynn Day Camp for Ages 6-8

Magic Treehouse Adventures (A)

6-10 Monday-Friday

17-Aug. 2 Tuesdays & Thursdays

Jazz Improv for Beginners

Flynn Workshop Intensive for Ages 11-14

Flynn Day Camp for Ages 8-12

6-10 Monday-Friday

What Do You See? Exploring Theatrical Design

Flynn Day Camp for Ages 13+

19-22 Thursday-Sunday (six shows) Flynn Youth Theater Company

Summertime Latin Jazz Intensive

SEPTEMBER 1 Sunday Support the Flynn Center

go over the edge

FALL REGISTRATION

4 Tuesday

Flynn Members: 7/23 Open Registration: 7/27

Placement Sessions

Jazz Music: Youth & Adult Combos

23-27 Monday-Friday Flynn Day Camp for Ages 6-8 (am) & 9-14 (pm)

Broadway Showstoppers

8 Saturday

Flynn Day Camp for Ages 12-17

Show Choir Program Auditions

Monty Python Sketchfest

10-15 Monday-Saturday

First Week of Fall Classes!

Magic Treehouse Adventures (B)

o sa

6-10 Monday-Friday Flynn Day Camp for Ages 6-8

KIDS VT

Frozen: Do You Want to Build a Snow Dance?

15%

Flynn Youth Theater Company

18-19 Season on sale: 201 8-19 tick Members 7/17 Public 8/1 Secure tickets to family shows— Elf, The Sound of Music, Cirque Mechanics, The Magic School Bus, Cirque Éloize, Kodo, Red Kite Green Mountain—and so much more!

ets

2-5 Thursday-Sunday (six shows)

ve up

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

30-Aug. 3 Monday-Friday

AUGUST

Placement Sessions for Grades 2-8

Flynn Youth Theater Company

23-27 Monday-Friday

Flynn Day Camp for Ages 6-8

5 Wednesday

WWW.FLYNNCENTER.ORG P E R F O R M I N G

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A R T S

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EDITOR’S NOTE

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS COPUBLISHER/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Cathy Resmer

cathy@kidsvt.com COPUBLISHER

Colby Roberts

colby@kidsvt.com MANAGING EDITOR

Alison Novak

alison@kidsvt.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Mary Ann Lickteig

maryann@kidsvt.com ART DIRECTOR

Brooke Bousquet brooke@kidsvt.com

MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR

Corey Grenier

corey@kidsvt.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Kaitlin Montgomery kaitlin@kidsvt.com

CALENDAR WRITER

Brett Stanciu

brett@kidsvt.com PROOFREADERS

Katherine Isaacs, Kara Torres PRODUCTION MANAGER

John James CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Don Eggert DESIGNERS

Kirsten Cheney, Tod Scott, Rev. Diane Sullivan CIRCULATION MANAGER

Matt Weiner BUSINESS MANAGER

Cheryl Brownell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ken Picard, Kristen Ravin, Erinn Simon, Autumn Spencer, Katie Taylor PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tim Santimore, Sam Simon ILLUSTRATOR

Marc Nadel

Animals All Around G

THE

ISSUE

ALISON NOVAK, MANAGING EDITOR

My most unusual pet would be the turtle I picked out at Macy’s, back in 1969 when the department store actually had a pet department that sold reptiles. I was in kindergarten and named the quarter-sized turtle SHARKEY. When I was in my second year of college, my mom finally gave it away to a science museum on Long Island that had a turtle tank. By then, Sharkey was about the size of a large dinner plate. For all I know he’s still alive, just like Cuff and Link, Sylvester Stallone’s pet turtles from the first Rocky film. KEN PICARD, CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Our cockapoo mix, PETIE, was a sweet and gentle pup. We got him when I was 8; he died during my freshman year of college. The first time I ever saw a shooting star was a night when I took him out to pee at 2 a.m. CATHY RESMER, EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Early one Fourth of July morning, my mother returned from the night shift and brought an orange kitten into my bedroom. Someone had abandoned the tiny kitty in the hospital parking lot. That cat, OLIVER, lived for over 20 years, and even my father wept when he died. BRETT STANCIU, CALENDAR WRITER/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

CONTRIBUTOR’S NOTE KATIE TAYLOR (“Habitat,” page 11) is a content writer and strategist living in Richmond with her wife, their son and an unruly dog. A native-born Southerner, she revels in the Vermont summers and is slowly learning to love the winters.

KIDS VT

rowing up in the suburbs of New York City, I didn’t have many opportunities to interact with barnyard animals. Seeing a goat or sheep was a novelty; it usually meant a one-off trip to a petting zoo or local farm. My Vermont-born kids, on the other hand, have almost daily Five-yearold Mira at encounters with animals. Shelburne Though we don’t have any Farms livestock or pets of our own, it’s a common occurrence to see free-range hens in a local yard or to pass horses or cows grazing in a field. Since they were babies, we’ve also been taking 11-year-old Mira and 8-year-old Theo to Shelburne Farms. In this magical place, they’ve learned the proper technique for picking up a chicken, had the chance to feed and milk a cow and lead a sheep out to pasture, watched as newly born goats wobbled around on their unsteady legs, and hitched a ride on horse-drawn wagons and dog-pulled sleds (during the winter festival at the farm). It’s my hope that these experiences in the children’s farmyard during their formative years will make my kids more comfortable with all kinds of creatures as adults. Many Vermont kids have much greater exposure to animals than my own do. On page 20, Brett Stanciu writes about veteran educator James Messier, who’s been teaching classes on animal science to teens in Franklin County for more than 50 years. Students learn skills that will prepare them for careers in agriculture. And on page 32, Erinn and Sam Simon document the long-running Vermont Dairy Festival in Enosburg, where visitors celebrate our state’s rich dairy heritage with events like a milking contest and Cow Plop Bingo. We’ve written about animals outside of the farmyard as well. On page 11, read about the Howe family of Williston, who are raising backyard bees. “One to Watch” this month, page 13, features a 12-year-old boy from Barnard who trains a pair of 600-pound steers for ox-pulling competitions. On page 15, learn about a unique partnership between Vermont Fish and Wildlife and ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain aimed at protecting threatened Eastern spiny softshell turtles. In non-animal-related news, have your kids started the Good Citizen Challenge? It’s a new initiative created by Seven Days and Kids VT that aims to help Vermont kids learn about civics, government, history and media literacy. Participants earn points by completing activities ranging from visiting historic sites to engaging in conversations with neighbors and elected officials. You’ll find a scorecard in the center of this issue. Visit goodcitizenvt. com for more information. And, if you haven’t already, pick up a copy of our 2018 Daytripper summer fun guide, with dozens of suggestions for places to visit in our great state — including a few related to animals.

JULY 2018

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.

What was your most memorable childhood pet?

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TIM SANTIMORE

THE

JULY 2018

D C I TIZ

JUST FOR KIDS

ISSUE

ese & wine Your chaend m ore! place

Pudding & P-Nut’s Prehistoric Park Quiet on the set! The world’s greatest movie directors have a totally original idea for a film, starring gigantic mammals from the past. But the actors’ credits got all mixed up. Can you match the names and descriptions with the images of these new stars?

1. Arsinoitherium: An ancient, enormous mammal with two very different-sized sets of horns. 2. Brontops: An early rhino-like creature, but this one’s horn looked like a gigantic slingshot. 3. Cave Bear: An animal who lived at the time of Neanderthals, who would make today’s grizzlies look like teddy bears.

Cows & Classwork

4. Doedicurus: A huge early armadillo with a dangerous spiked ball at the end of his tail.

KIDSVT.COM

5. Irish Elk: A ancient deer who was 7 feet tall at the shoulder, and whose massive antlers spanned 12 feet. 6. Platybelodon: An early elephant who had two giant, shovel-like teeth coming from his lower jaw, so that he could scoop up roots to eat.

JULY 2018

7. Woolly Mammoth: Another ancient elephant, who had a very warm fur coat, which he really needed in the Ice Age.

KIDS VT

An animal science teacher reflects on a half-century of educating kids

Just for Kids 23 Prehistoric Puzzle 24 Writing Contest

29 30

Summer civics activities for kids!

& Winners Coloring Contest Winners Coloring Contest Puzzle Page Birthday Club

CALENDAR

FIND SCORECARD IN CENTER PULLOUT

JULY Incredible Insect JUL 7 Festival: Nature fans learn about the lives of these amazing creatures through hands-on activities, demonstrations, stories and crafts. In the Caterpillar Lab, expert Sam Jaffe introduces curious guests to an array of live critters. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Quechee.

Dairy for Days

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

TRENDING AUTUMN ANSWERS

JULY 2018

KIDSVT.COM

ummer is wonderful in many ways. For one, it’s not zero degrees and blackout dark for 22 hours a day. Berries grow, creemee stands open, flowers bloom. But, let’s get real, summer can also be high-pressure and high-stress for parents. For those nine-ish weeks of summer vacation, we have to figure out how to juggle the very same workload we have the rest of the year, except the kids aren’t occupied at school all day. Instead, they’re home, staring wide-eyed into our souls, asking, “When are you gonna stop working so we can get started making those warm, fuzzy summertime memories I’ve heard so much about?” Oh, the guilt. Creating a summer schedule with just the right mix of experiences for just the right amount of

time and money is a difficult proposition. No matter how well we manage it, there will always be pockets of time when our children are – gasp! – bored. Although kids tend to relay their boredom with an urgency akin to having just sliced a finger open — utterly panicked and fully expecting the nearest adult to immediately handle the emergency — feeling bored is not actually a health risk. Au contraire, my friends, experts

Are your kids bored? Good. say it’s good for kids to be bored sometimes! How great is that? According to psychologist and parenting expert, Dr. Vanessa Lapointe, “Children need to sit in their own boredom for the world to become quiet enough that they can hear themselves. It is only when we are surrounded by nothing that something comes alive on the inside.” Dr. Teresa Belton, visiting fellow at the School of Education and Lifelong Learning at the University of East Anglia in England,

researches the relationship between boredom, creativity and media. In UC Berkeley’s Greater Good online magazine, Belton says that while kids certainly benefit from organized activities, “children also need time to themselves — to switch off from the bombardment of the outside world, to daydream, pursue their own thoughts and occupations, and discover personal interests and gifts.” When your children tell you they’re bored, Belton suggests offering them simple materials — a box or a magnifying glass, for example — to spark their imaginations. You can also offer creative challenges like story writing, movie making or obstacle-course creating. The goal is for kids to see boredom not as a problem to be instantly solved by an adult, but as an opportunity to explore their own ideas, practice self-reliance, and accept that constant stimulation and entertainment is not a birthright. In this monthly column, comedian, writer and mom Autumn Spencer answers tricky parenting questions. Have a question for Autumn? Send it to ideas@kidsvt.com.

Thanks for sharing your cute photos with us using the hashtag #instakidsvt. We loved this picture of sisters Evelyn and Adaline cuddling with their new calf, Daisy. Share a picture of your kids having fun in the sun this month.

KIDS VT

HERE’S HOW:

Follow @kids_vt on Instagram. Post your photos on Instagram with the hashtag #instakidsvt. We’ll select a photo to feature in the next issue.

Koko, the gorilla who mastered sign language, died in her sleep at age 46 in California. If you haven’t seen the footage of the great ape having a tickle fight with Robin Williams, Google it!

Country Time Lemonade launched “Legal-Ade,” an initiative to reimburse kids fined for running lemonade stands without a permit. “When life gives you arcane laws, make lemonade,” a tongue-in-cheek promotional video states.

Kansas parents were fined $132,000 after their 5-year-old son toppled a glass statue at a local community center. That’s a big fee for a little horseplay.

KIDS SAY WHAT?

#INSTAKIDSVT

A pregnant Georgia mom went to Target to buy a nursing bra and ended up giving birth at the entrance to the store. So that’s where babies come from!

evelyn.adaline Daisy is officially our new best friend! Evelyn is especially hoping she can sleep in her room. ;)

“Mommy, were you alive when fish walked on the Earth?” —CAMILLA, AGE 5

PARENT PARTICIPATION

THE

ISSUE This month, we asked Facebook followers to share a photo of their pet and explain what makes him or her so special. Dogs were strongly represented in the responses, so we’re sharing some of them below! We rescued TINK from Good Karma Rescue. She was a heartworm-positive stray in Texas. Now she is a dog who has given my daughter, Cory, endless love and confidence. We wouldn’t trade her for anything in the world. We bring her everywhere. —JENNIFER BUGBEE MOOKIE is our

7-month-old Siberian husky pup. She is a very loving, energetic and happy-to-chew-ourhouse-to-shreds kind of pup. She also loves doing whatever we are doing, including softball. (Pictured with daughter Natalee.) —MANDY MUIRKNEELAND

This is JAKE, who we adopted from Homeward Bound. He’d been rescued from a puppy mill and brought to the shelter. He was underweight, quiet and the last puppy left at the shelter because he was already 6 months old. He has proven to be a loyal, caring, dedicated companion and family member and we couldn’t live without him. His nickname is Nana (think Peter Pan).

Nothing says summer like freshly picked berries. In July and August, blueberries and raspberries ripen and families flock to Vermont fields to pick the sweet jewels to blend into ice pops, bake into cakes or just snack on as nature made them. To help you enjoy the berry-picking season, we asked Tracey Medeiros, author of The Vermont Non-GMO Cookbook, for some tips for a successful berry-picking outing. We’ve also rounded up 13 local farms where you can pick your own berries. And, in case you’re not sure what to do with all of your bounty, we offer two simple recipes from Medeiros to help you make the most of the short-but-sweet berry season. Find all this on our blog at kidsvt.com!

—EVELYN MARIA

This is JUNIPER, our chocolate Lab. She is our daughter, Mackenzie’s, best friend. —HEATHER SAWYER

This is our new boxer puppy,

SUGAR. We didn’t know when we got her

—ANDREA LETOURNEAU GUNTHER

Read the full story at kidsvt.com/berries

KIDS VT

that she was deaf but knew something wasn’t right on the drive home from picking her up. In one month, she’s doubled in size, and loves to snuggle and chew on the kids. She was a part of our family as soon as we had her, and the fact that she’s deaf makes her that much more special.

JULY 2018

—CARA CLOPTON

—KHARI LYN LIZOTTE

Berry Picking

KIDSVT.COM

We just celebrated a first “pupiversary” (a.k.a.“gotcha day”) with our plott hound mix rescue dogs, DAISY and COOPER. Our big red Lab rescue dog, APOLLO, also got a special peanut buttery cupcake treat. We can’t imagine our family without our furry fourlegged brothers and sister!

I always loved this photo of my fur baby, MUGSY, and my human baby, Briar, because they’re making such similar faces. They look related!

IN SEASON

EXHIBIT

COURTESY OF MICHELLE SAFFRAN

BY M A RY A N N L IC K T EIG AN D A L IS O N N OVAK

Path to Freedom

The Bhattarai family’s journey from a refugee camp in Nepal to their home in Winooski is chronicled in words and photographs in A NEW AMERICAN FAMILY, an exhibit hosted by the Winooski Peace Initiative at the O’Brien Community Center. It tells the story of Prem and Mana Bhattarai; their four children; their granddaughter Blossom; and Prem’s mother, Duku. Prem and Mana met in a refugee camp in Nepal after being stripped of their citizenship by the Bhutanese government in the early 1990s. They spent two decades in the camp, where their children were born, before being resettled in Vermont in 2012. Michelle Saffran photographed the Bhattarai family over the course of a year. Her photos range from striking portraits to snapshots documenting the Bhattarais’ daily life, from watching a Nepali television program to grocery shopping. Writer David French recorded family members talking about their experiences in the refugee camp and here in America. His excerpts accompany the photos. “In Nepal if you want to buy something, you have to walk to all different markets to find everything,” eldest daughter, Renuka, said. “Here you get it in one place. The first time we went to Costco, it was like going to heaven.” —AN “A New American Family” is on display through July 31 at the O’Brien Community Center at 32 Malletts Bay Ave. in Winooski. The center is open Saturdays-Thursdays from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

HEALTH

Lyme on the Rise

As a dietitian for the Hannaford supermarket chain, Joanne Heidkamp spends the bulk of her days prepping and serving samples of healthy snacks and helping shoppers in the Essex, South Burlington and Williston stores make nutritious and cost-effective decisions in the aisles. Another facet of her work is leading classes designed to teach kids and families about eating well. This month, Heidkamp — named a 2015 Supermarket Dietician of the Year by national nonprofit Produce for Better Health Foundation — will use the theme “Super Snacks” for her KIDS IN THE KITCHEN classes. She’ll instill the message that “a snack is not a mini dessert,” she explained, by helping kids assemble dishes like fruit-andyogurt parfaits, flavored hummus and homemade energy bites. Students will pass around ingredients to gain exposure to different foods. Heidkamp, who’s been a dietitian for 30 years, has this tip for moms and dads who want to instill good eating habits in their kids: “Parents are really important role models,” she said. “If a child sees a parent enjoying a variety of foods, chances are, even if they go through a picky phase, they’re going to be a more adventurous eater.” —AN This month’s free hour-long Hannaford Kids in the Kitchen classes will be offered on Thursday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m. in Williston (78 Marshall Ave.) and at 1:30 p.m. in Essex Junction (21A Essex Way) and on Friday, July 27, at 10:30 a.m. in South Burlington (218 Hannaford Drive). Preregister by emailing Joanne Heidkamp at jheidkamp@hannaford.com.

JULY 2018 KIDS VT

Find more information, including Lyme prevention tips and a list of EPAapproved tick repellents, at healthvermont.gov.

Healthy Habits

KIDSVT.COM

Vermont may have nudged out Maine to become the state with the highest incidence of LYME DISEASE. Preliminary data show 1,091 cases reported to the Vermont Department of Health in 2017, up from 763 in 2016, when Vermont ranked second in the country for cases per capita. Actual numbers are likely much higher; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that only one in 10 cases gets reported. Children ages 5 to 14 are most likely to contract Lyme because they spend lots of time outdoors and are lower to the ground, said Pat Bannerman, vice president of the education and support group VTLyme.org. Lyme disease is caused by an infection with a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi. In the Northeast, it is transmitted to humans by the bite of a black-legged tick, formerly known as the deer tick, said Bradley Tompkins, the health department’s tickborne disease program chief. Most transmission to people comes from young ticks called nymphs, which look like poppy seeds and are most active in the spring and early summer, Tompkins said. Adult black-legged ticks, which look like large sesame seeds, also transmit Lyme and are more active in the fall. The health department recommends removing ticks at home — an instructional video is available on the department website — then seeking medical care if symptoms, including a rash, headache, fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain, start, usually within three to 30 days. Antibiotics are used to treat the disease. —MAL

NUTRITION

DESTINATION RECREATION B Y KR IS T EN R AVIN PHOTOS: KRISTEN RAVIN

Purple Sage’s Salt Cave

Virginia in the salt cave

21 Essex Way, Suite 224, Essex Junction

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

etween annoying cartoons and crowded museums, kids’ entertainment can feel like sensory overload. The salt cave at Purple Sage, a salon and spa in Essex Junction, offers a relaxing antidote to overstimulation. Located in the Essex Shoppes, Purple Sage offers a range of holistic, healing, spa and beauty services. The cornerstone of its holistic healing mission, though, is the therapeutic salt cave. According to the Purple Sage website, salt therapy, also called halotherapy, yields myriad benefits for the mind and body. Increased mental acuity, reduced stress and inflammation, improved mood, an enhanced immune system, and relief from respiratory conditions are among the benefits that the spa touts. Alison Maloof, a naturopathic doctor and resident at the Champlain

Center for Natural Medicine in Shelburne, is a believer. “I’ve been to many salt caves all over for my own personal experience,” Maloof said. Though there’s limited research available on halotherapy, the information that exists, she said, focuses on treatment of respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis. Although people should check with their health care professional before starting halotherapy to treat a condition, Maloof said, individuals can feel benefits just by sitting in the cave and breathing. Another perk? “Taking an hour to relax can be beneficial for mental and emotional stress,” said Maloof. “I like to call it Vitamin R — rest and rejuvenation.” Purple Sage’s salt cave is typically open to adults and kids ages 8 and up, but on Sunday afternoons through July, special Kids Cave sessions allow

younger children and their caregivers to experience salt therapy together. On a weekend in May, my 1-year-old daughter, Virginia, and I gave it a try. On the morning of our appointment, Virginia was having a challenging day. Little tasks led to tantrums as we tried to get out the door, and I wondered if I had set us up for disaster. I hoped the salt cave worked as promised. Once in the spa’s reception and retail area, we met general manager Samuel Dawson, who let us know that we were the only registered participants that day, which meant we’d have the salt cave to ourselves. Score! Dawson led us into the cave’s vestibule, which was stocked with blankets, pails and shovels. Food, drinks and electronics are not allowed inside, so I left my cell phone in a cubby. Virginia and I changed into the required white socks (adult sizes were provided; kids should bring their own) and passed through the ornate wooden double doors into the cave. The walls are encrusted with pure mineral sea salt, and Himalayan salt

lamps give off a dim, orange hue. Starlike lights twinkle from the ceiling. The floor is covered by a thick layer of small salt rocks — around the size of road salt — creating an oversized sandbox. It took Salt Cave Builders of America two weeks to construct the cave, Dawson said. It was finished in October 2017. Measuring 384 square feet, the cavern seats up to 10 people in special zero-gravity lounge chairs. These breathable reclining seats resemble lawn chairs and are designed for comfort. The room is kept cool at 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and the air is infused with a dry aerosol of micro-sized, pharmaceutical-grade salt particles created by a salt generator. “This would be a perfect respite from a rainy or sticky summer day,” I thought. I put my feet up in a lounge chair while Virginia played with her pail and shovel. With the gentle lighting and soft ambient music coming from the speakers, it was easy to let the stress of the morning go. After around 15 minutes of amusing herself on her own personal beach, Virginia climbed into my chair, snuggled under a blanket, looked up at the twinkling lights and relaxed for the rest of the 45-minute session. I’m not sure if it was the distraction-free environment, my own sense of calm transmitted to my daughter or the Himalayan salt working its magic, but the tension of the morning melted away. Now that’s entertainment. K

Kids Cave takes place every Sunday in July from 1-1:45 p.m. $35 per adult-child pair; $20 per additional child. Call 879-1160 to preregister. Visit purplesagevt.com for more information. Regular salt cave sessions are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. beginning at the top of every hour. $35; preregistration required.

THE

HABITAT BY KATI E TAY LO R

ISSUE

Carrie and Avery watch the beehives

n a muggy night in July 2015, Eric Howe pushed two hives of swarming honeybees into the trunk of his Subaru and drove two and a half miles from his family’s old house to their new home in Williston. The hot, stuffy conditions were miserable for this sort of maneuver, and the bees tried to keep cool by clustering on the outside of their hives — wooden boxes holding frames filled with honeycombs. But covered from head to toe in his white cotton beekeeper’s suit, hands steady on the wheel, Howe made the trip without bodily harm. Both the bees and the Howe family settled nicely into their new home, situated on a 3-acre

Read more about the Howe family’s homesteading adventures on Carrie’s blog, happyhivevt.com.

KIDS VT

• The Howes recently increased their number of colonies from two to four.

JULY 2018

• The Howes bought their first bees from Vermont Beekeeping Supply in Williamstown. They purchased two nucs, or nucleus colonies, which are fully established colonies of a few thousand bees that contain all the stages of the bee life cycle — a queen, workers, drones, newly laid eggs and larvae. Nucs are often the first purchase for new beekeepers since they provide an entire established colony.

A frame from the beehive

KIDSVT.COM

• Eric took a beekeeping basics class at Access CVU at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg before getting started. Their initial investment for bees and equipment was around $1,000.

his wife, Carrie, to start raising bees. The insects are also relatively low maintenance, says Carrie. A colony of bees can take care of itself for days at a time. Picture books often show bees in a yellow hive hanging from a tree, but beekeepers’ hives are wood boxes with frames inside. The interior of each frame is made of wax that the bees use as a guide to make their honeycomb. Every week or two, Eric calms the bees with a smoking can so he can check to see if the frames are full of honey. If so, he sets a new box — filled with empty frames — on top of the old box. After a full season, the hives look like a stack of filing cabinets. The Howes harvest honey each year around Labor Day, removing the frames and cutting off the wax caps that the bees apply to each cell of finished honey. The family relies on a friendly beekeeping community to lend them an extractor, a contraption that uses centrifugal force to spin the honey out of the frames. Since a single hive can produce as much as five to six gallons, the family has plenty for the coming months — with extra for gifts. The kids drizzle honey on baked goods and use it to sweeten lemonade. Both children also take a spoonful to help with allergies and sore throats. Carrie uses the wax to make candles, lip balm, and a salve that the family puts on cuts and scrapes. Unfortunately, loss of bees is common during Vermont’s cold winters, so they’ve had to replace their colonies several times. Even so, the family can’t help getting attached to their backyard guests. When a familiar black and yellow insect zips by, Avery pipes up: “There goes one of Dad’s bees!” K

plot of land in the middle of rolling farm fields. From their sunroom, the family has a view of the hives, which are enclosed by an electric fence to discourage Avery with bears. dad Eric The Howes have been keeping bees for five years, and have become comfortable with their colonies. After just a few stings, they’ve come to understand that if they don’t bother the bees, the bees won’t bother them. Their son Avery, 8, and his 4-year-old sister, Charlotte, like to sit in the field and observe as their dad tends the bees in his beekeeper THE BUZZ ON BEEKEEPING suit, a getup that earned him the name Bee Man from Avery. • The Howes are members of the Vermont Beekeepers A commitment to homesteading Association, a resource for people raising bees across the and environmental sustainability state. The 9,000 hives tended by its members produce drove Eric and 700,000 gallons of honey each year.

PHOTOS: KATIE TAYLOR

Backyard Beehives

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FREESTYLE, PARKOUR AND NINJA WARRIOR TRAINING! Visit us at the Kids VT Camp Fair in February!

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P: URBAN ARROW

260 Avenue D, Suite 30 • Williston (off Industrial Ave.) • 802-652-2454

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6/28/18 12:07 PM

VERMONT

260 Avenue D, Suite 30 • Williston (off Industrial Ave.) • 802-652-2454

SWIM

Research Opportunity for Participants With and Without Autism

Researchers at the University of Vermont (Burlington, VT) are studying how language and cognition may differ between individuals with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Results may be used to help design and develop education and training programs for individuals with ASD.

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

SCHOOL Private and group lessons at the UVM indoor pool. Open to the community.

Who qualifies? • Children and adults (ages 5-75) without a history of traumatic brain injury, neurological disorder, psychiatric disorder, substance abuse, or learning disability • Children and adults (ages 5-75) with a professional diagnosis of ASD—including autism, autism spectrum disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, or Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

The POOL is COOL at VT Swim School!

What is involved? Testing will take place at the research lab in Burlington, VT (although some testing may take place elsewhere upon request). The study will take approximately 3 hours in total. • Participants will complete an initial screening session (approximately 2 hours) to assess eligibility. This will include questionnaires, behavioral tasks, and interview questions. • Participants will also complete a testing session which may involve reading words or sentences, listening to stories, or viewing pictures.

8-Week Session Starts September 9 Private lessons for ages 4 and up. Private lessons are formatted to meet the individual goals and needs of the swimmer. Group swim lessons for ages 4-8 years. Instructors are CPR/First Aid and lifeguard certified.

• During these tasks, electroencephalography (EEG) may also be recorded. EEG is a non-invasive method of recording brain activity and involves wearing an elastic cap on the head which is soaked in a salt-water solution. • Eye movement monitoring may also be performed while participants perform computer tasks. Eye-tracking is a non-invasive method of tracking the location of the pupil and involves placing the chin in a chin rest to minimize head movement. Compensation: Participants will be compensated $15 per hour for study participation (prorated for partial completion of the study). Parking costs will be reimbursed. Participants under age 18 will receive compensation in the form of a gift card or an age-appropriate toy. If interested, participants will also receive the results of the study. Interested in participating? Questions? If you are interested in participating or would like to learn more, please contact Emily Coderre, the principal investigator, at Emily.Coderre@med.uvm.edu or (802) 656-0202.

UVMCampusRec.com (802) 656-4483

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THE

ONE TO WATCH BY M A RY A N N L I CKT E I G

Name: Jacob Stone Age: 12 Town: Barnard

MARY ANN LICKTEIG

Ahead of the Herd

ISSUE

A young teamster masters an old New England tradition

and instilling responsibility. Mom and Dad cover the 4:30 a.m. chores, but the kids help feed and water and clean the barn in the afternoons. The family no longer milks cows, but tends to 14 head of cattle, five barn cats, a dog named Sprocket and Paige’s Shetland pony, Fred. The kids have to work their own steers. Jacob and Paige both competed in their first pulling competitions at age 5. Paige no longer pulls. Jacob took a five-year break, then resumed last year, winning five ribbons and taking his steers on a ferry to compete at the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society Fair. Joe and Jack are his third pair. Working them builds their strength and gets them accustomed to each other and to following Jacob’s commands. “The three of them have to be a team,” Amy said. The work pays off — in and out of the show ring. “Farm kids are independent, and they’re problem solvers, and they’re good leaders a lot of times,” Amy said. Jacob calls out plays on the baseball field, said his assistant coach, Rebecca Ward. “He’s just kind of a take-charge kid in a way that doesn’t make you feel like he’s trying to be your boss,” she said. “He’s my utility player. I can put him wherever ... and he gives me 110 percent.” K

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Congrats to Alan Moody, 12, of Cabot. The first to finish the ...

Alan in front of the monument honoring Cabot’s Civil War soldiers

Find a scorecard in the middle of this issue, or download one at goodcitizenvt.com. with support from:

JULY 2018

DID YOU KNOW? There is no such thing as a baby ox. Oxen are born bull calves. After they are castrated, they are called steers. Once they are trained to work and are 4 years old, they are called oxen.

KIDS VT

gets three tries to pull a load six feet in one continuous pull. Successful teams move on to a heavier load. Oxen, Palmer said, can pull up to 250 percent of their weight. Jacob and his 10-year-old sister, Paige, were born into hard work and dusty show rings. Their dad, Nick, grew up in the small town of Vershire. He started showing steers when he was 10, pulling at 16, and now competes in as many as 30 events a year. Nick’s wife, Amy, who had nothing to do with oxen before meeting Nick, is proud to be part of an ox-pulling family. It gives her kids a unique childhood, she said. It teaches them commitment, compassion and patience, and it has introduced the whole family to friends throughout New England. “We planned the kids around ox pulling, if you can believe that,” Nick said. The season runs from late May to early October and the goal was to have each baby at the end of the season, so they’d be big enough to travel to competitions the following year. Jacob, born Nov. 7, arrived right on schedule, but Paige, born Oct. 5, was not so cooperative. “I couldn’t go to Sandwich (N.H.) that year,” Nick said. Jacob and Paige were in the barn with their parents when they were two weeks old. They sat in infant seats in the milking parlor and then got pulled around in a red wagon as their parents finished chores. Nick and Amy gave each of their kids a bull and a heifer calf by the time they turned 5. Each child gets the money those animals bring in – and any calves the heifers eventually have. It’s the Stones’ way of building savings accounts for their kids, teaching them about money

KIDSVT.COM

rivers on Vermont Route 12 just south of the Barnard-Bethel town line slow down and sometimes stop at the sight of a slim boy in a baseball cap leading a pair of 600pound steers, yoked, harnessed and pulling a giant tire up and down his gravel driveway. Five afternoons a week, 12-year-old Jacob Stone exercises his 10-month-old steers, Jack, a shorthorn, and Joe, a shorthornHereford cross, born on the family farm. “Come on,” Jacob sometimes says when he wants them to move forward. More often, he just makes a kissing sound, which means the same thing. “Gee” means turn right, “haw” means turn left, “whoa” is stop and “put in” means step in so you’re parallel with the other steer. Jacob aims to complete five trips up and down the driveway — around three-quarters of a mile — stopping at each end to let the animals rest. That’s when he catches the eyes of passersby. Last summer, a Canadian couple stopped to take his picture, then gave him $5 and drove away with a souvenir of an old New England tradition. Ox pulling started in the 1800s as a friendly competition among farmers, said Heidi Palmer, past secretary-treasurer of the Association of New England Ox Teamsters. Most New England fairs still host the contests. The 4-H program sponsors youth pulls judged on a host of technical skills. Professional pulls, the ones Jacob and his dad enter, have two types: distance pulls — in which teams compete to see which one can pull a load the longest distance in three to five minutes — and the six-foot-elimination, in which a team

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6/29/18 11:25 AM

Lake Adventure Camps

Lounging in the Library

for

Grades 2-12

COURTESY OF SARAGAIL BENJAMIN

Join Us!

BOOKWORMS B Y B R ET T S TAN C IU

D Only a few spots left!

Lake Champlain Maritime Museum Vergennes, Vermont Shuttle stops in Burlington, Shelburne, Middlebury & Vergennes Financial aid available.

https://camps.lcmm.org 6/27/18 11:47 AM

KIDS VT

JULY 2018

KIDSVT.COM

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Master drummer Saragail Benjamin

COURTESY OF VINS

Be On The

oes your family have a checklist of places you like to visit when school’s out? A favorite beach? A beloved creemee stand? If it’s not on your agenda already, consider adding your local library. Summer is a great time for families who don’t regularly visit their library to stop in and see what it has to offer, said Vermont Department of Libraries’ youth services consultant Cass Mabbott. “Young parents sometimes think, My child is not well-behaved enough to come here. But the library is a welcoming place.” In addition to providing books and a range of educational and enrichment programs, Mabbott said, libraries are comfortable places to hang out, play board or computer games, learn about family resources, and meet other parents. Most of Vermont’s 183 public libraries offer a slate of special activities as part of the Collaborative Summer Library Program. The nonprofit group, founded by 10 Minnesota libraries in 1987, provides an annual theme, artwork and detailed programming suggestions to get kids jazzed about literacy. This year’s theme — Libraries Rock! — challenges librarians to incorporate subjects ranging from music to geology. In addition to story times for younger children, libraries offer book groups for independent readers, Lego and chess clubs, and hands-on arts and crafts activities from tie-dyeing to making simple musical instruments. While kids are on summer break, many libraries also schedule magicians, musicians and other performers to present enriching shows. On tap at various Vermont libraries this summer are singersongwriter Jon Gailmor, innovative animator Meredith Holch, storyteller Simon Brooks, and music and storytelling duo the Swing Peepers. The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) will bring

An owl from VINS

it’s rescued birds to multiple libraries across the state as part of its summer program, “Screech and Hoot: the Science of Bird Communication.” The presentation, geared to ages 4 and up, features stories and facts about

avian language, with plenty of time for questions from curious kids. Backpack Theater, a traveling troupe of 23 teen thespians led by Sheldon-based Rina Choiniere and Ernie Hemingway, has been enlivening literature for 24 years by acting out classic children’s tales. This summer, the group will engage library audiences with productions of “The Princess and the Pea” and “Country Mouse, City Mouse.” Winooski’s Saragail Benjamin will make the rounds to nearly 30 Vermont libraries in the coming months. Benjamin, a master drummer and published author, combines group drumming and storytelling, and provides instruments for all attendees. “Put a drum in anyone’s hands, and they’re 5 years old,” she told Kids VT. At its heart, Benjamin said, her program taps into participants’ creativity and joy — “something we can certainly use a little more of in the world today.” K Check out the Kids VT’s monthly calendar on page 36 or visit your local library’s website to find out what’s happening this month!

Turtle Care W

ISSUE

2455 Shelburne Rd Shelburne, VT 802-985-3302 Store Hours: Mon-Fri: 9-7 pm Sat & Sun: 9-6 pm

www.pfwvt.com

levels receive a certificate, a photo of their turtle, a softshell stuffed animal and the opportunity to name their turtle. Superstars are given day passes to ECHO so they can visit the turtles and an invitation to attend the turtle release. After a behind-the-scenes tour at ECHO last December, Heather Jaring decided to purchase two Softshell Superstar packages — one as a birthday present to herself and one as a Christmas present for her 5-year-old son, Corey. She and Corey both love wildlife and the outdoors, she explained, and last fall participated in Vermont Fish and Wildlife’s turtle nesting site cleanup. “I’m always looking for new ways to give him experiences because, to me, that means more

A family at the June turtle release

than a toy, and memories last a lifetime,” she wrote in an email. When Jen Cairns’ now-11-yearold daughter, Madeline, turned 6, she had a turtle-themed party at ECHO and asked that, in lieu of gifts, friends contribute $5 to help her adopt a softshell. The family has been Softshell Superstars every year since. Cairns described the turtle release in June as one of the highlights of her family’s year. Everyone participating takes a turn choosing a baby turtle from a bucket, she recounted. “After a quick picture, we wish them luck, then gently lower them into the water and watch as they swim out into the lake.”

THE HARD FACTS ON SOFTSHELLS Vermont has between 200 and 300 adult and large juvenile Eastern spiny softshell turtles, about half the ideal population, according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.

•

Eggs are the size and shape of a ping-pong ball. Hatchlings are the size of a quarter.

•

Only about 1% of softshell turtle eggs produce a breeding adult.

•

Vermont law mandates turtle nesting sites to be kept confidential to prevent human disturbance.

•

In 2017, Fish and Wildlife protected nests from predators, like skunks and raccoons, by laying mesh fencing over

active nests and using an electric fence around the largest communal nesting area. A 68-inch-high fence was installed to deter jumping predators like foxes. •

The 2017 turtle nesting season was less productive than the previous three seasons, possibly due to a five-day cold snap in August that killed or impacted development of turtle embryos, said Steve Parren of Vermont Fish and Wildlife.

•

During hibernation — late autumn until spring — softshells bury themselves in mud or sand at the bottom of a river or lake, and they don’t need to eat.

WANT TO HELP?

Letter Code B= C=

*discount not valid on litter, food, books, prior purchases, gift cards or already discounted items. Cannot be combined with other offers. Limit one per customer.

EVNACC • Exp. 10/31/18

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e t tim S r i F

6/27/18 11:53 AM

py H a pp er m a C gram p rO

Never been camping? Or, has it been a long time? Vermont State Parks can help you with free equipment, planning tips, set up help, meal advice, and throw in a free campsite for a couple of nights! Sign up for your free weekend at vtstateparks.com

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KIDS VT

Every October, Vermont Fish and Wildlife invites volunteers to help pull up vegetation to prepare turtle nesting sites for the following year. Participants get to see hatchlings and learn about turtle conservation efforts. Visit vtfishandwildlife.com later this summer for more information.

JULY 2018

•

Use the letter code to reveal the Pet Food Warehouse motto:

KIDSVT.COM

ith their leathery, pliant shells, Eastern spiny softshell turtles — the only species of softshell turtles found in New England — are especially vulnerable to predators. Since 1987, they’ve been listed as a threatened species in Vermont. A partnership between the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department and ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain aims to protect these and other turtles during the cooler months and educate ECHO visitors about turtle conservation. In Vermont, turtles begin to hatch in August, a process which continues into October. For hatchlings born in the late fall, colder weather slows their development in the nest and lowers their chances of making it to the lake to hibernate for the winter. So, for more than 10 years, Steve Parren, wildlife diversity program manager for Vermont Fish and Wildlife, has been bringing lateborn softshells — and, in some years, Northern map turtles — to ECHO to be cared for during the winter, a process known as “headstarting.” Last fall, Parren handed over nine softshell and seven map turtles to the science center. The babies are kept in 70-degree water in ECHO’s Action Lab, where visitors can observe them and ask questions. Typically, the turtles are less than a week old when they arrive, and they still have a yolk sac attached to their bellies, explained environmental exhibit specialist Jennifer Dean. They’re given food high in calcium since they need to grow during a time when they’d normally be dormant. When the lake water warms to around 65 degrees, usually in June, the turtles are released back into Lake Champlain. At that point, they’re about the size of a typical 2-year-old turtle that has hibernated in the wild. One component of the partnership is ECHO’s Eastern Spiny Softshell Adoption Program. Those who want to support the science center’s care of the endangered turtles can become a Softshell Supporter for $50 or a Softshell Superstar for $125. Donors at both

Retail locations: 2500 Williston Rd S. Burlington, VT 802-862-5514

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF ECHO

THE

THE ART OF BY A L I S ON N OVA K

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PARENT PORTRAIT I NT E R VI E W BY ER I N N S I MO N • P H OTO B Y S A M S I MO N

KIDS VT

JULY 2018

KIDSVT.COM

Sarah, Ewan & Norah

Tell us about your pets! In what order did they arrive? Sarah: Well, Fuzzy the cat was first. When we moved back to Vermont from Montana (when the kids were young), I wanted an exact replica of my childhood cat, a white Maine Coon from the hills of Rutland. So I searched Craigslist and rescues and pet sites until I found him. He’s 8. Norah: Next was Bunny, for Ewan. We have this thing in our family; when you turn 10, you get an animal.

And Ewan wanted a bunny? Sarah: We visited a sweet place called Good Time Farm to find him. He was a tiny baby bunny, and he just hopped right over to Ewan and into his lap. It was really kind of magical. Ewan: We also call him El Frijolito, Little Bean, Mr. Bun and Foo Foo. Sarah: Next came Nova, Norah’s kitten. And then came Annie, the dog. She’s a rescue — our sweet little trauma dog.

And the chickens? Norah: We’ve always had chickens, but these are all new. We got them about seven weeks ago. The last ones were eaten by possums. Now we have a new possum-proof coop. This is a lot of animals to take care of. How do you split up the work? Sarah: The thing about taking care of pets, really, is just having systems. I don’t think it takes a particularly large amount of time. You know, we just love them all so much.

Want to be featured in an upcoming Parent Portrait? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

Sarah DeSilvey, 43, with kids Norah, 12, and Ewan, 16 Animals, left to right: Nova, Helen the Third, Bunny

CHECKUP WIT H MEGA N H OL L E RA N • I N T E RV I E W C O M P IL ED AN D C O N DEN S ED B Y K EN PIC AR D

KIDS VT: How did you decide to incorporate a therapy dog into your work? MEGAN HOLLERAN: I always knew I wanted to do it because I have two dogs, and one of them, Canuck, is sweet and personable and really good with people. It also came from my work at Spectrum and Woodside, working with a lot of youth who had experienced trauma. Sometimes it’s really intense meeting a counselor for the first time, and an animal helps bridge that gap.

them do that and making sure they feel safe. Canuck makes it normal, like it isn’t a big deal. KVT: What kind of issues do you address? MH: Depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief, addiction and phobias. So, when a client is talking about an addiction, they often feel a lot of guilt and shame. When I have clients who are very depressed, exercise can be very beneficial. As I often say to my clients, when thinking is a problem, doing more thinking about the thinking is not going to help your thinking. So I can always convince someone to get up and move around by saying, “Canuck really has to go for a walk.” Sometimes, just being in nature gets you out of your head.

KVT: How so? MH: Especially with preteens, they can feel like, What is this counseling thing? Who is this person? What’s KVT: Does Canuck alert you to she going your client’s emotional state? COUNSELOR MEGAN to ask me? MH: Yes, when the emotion HOLLERAN Unfortunately, is intense, I know that he’ll go during the first few sessions, I need to over and lie next to them or get closer get information so I know what’s hap- to them. That’s a trigger for me. I will pening with them. In general, that’s an never touch the clients myself, but age when kids feel like, if they’re going the dog is something they can touch to therapy, there must be something that’s warm, loving and genuine. He wrong with them. So, if I have an can pick up on things before I do, such adolescent who’s reticent to see me, as changes in their breathing. So, he’ll I’ll tell them that I have a therapy dog. put his head on their knee to calm Sometimes the first 15 minutes of the them. I’ve even seen him lick tears off intake session is just them getting to of people. They can just pet him and know Canuck and me gently letting breathe. Even looking at a dog releases

The dog is something they can touch that’s warm, loving and genuine.

Megan Holleran with Canuck

oxytocin [the hormone associated with maternal bonding, trust and altruism]. KVT: How has Canuck been greeted at Harwood Union High School? MH: I bring him to every counseling session there, and he also walks the halls. Constantly, the comments I hear are, “Oh, he’s made my day!” and “I’m so happy now!” They don’t talk to me; they talk to Canuck. That’s how it is with mental health. You see someone become more open and more vulnerable and trusting. He can bring humor into the situation, too, because we’ll be talking and he’ll suddenly make these deep sighs. He brings people back to the present moment. KVT: Have you had clients who didn’t want the therapy dog there? MH: I ask every time, but I have not run into that. Vermont is a great place to have a therapy dog. I’ve had people who say, “I don’t like dogs, but it’s fine if he’s there.” And then, after two or three sessions, they’ll say, “Oh, but I really like this dog.” He really helps me do a better job. K

KIDSVT.COM

tudies have shown that dogs improve people’s health in numerous ways. They can lower anxiety and stress levels, provide a reason to exercise, expand our social interactions, and increase our overall sense of happiness, purpose and wellbeing. Counselor Megan Holleran harnesses those benefits in her work with preteens and adolescents. A licensed clinical mental health and alcohol and drug counselor, Holleran says that her therapy dog, Canuck, plays a critical role in her practice. The 65-pound German shepherd mix was rescued from a shelter in Montréal and trained at Willistonbased nonprofit Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Holleran — who previously worked at Spectrum Youth & Family Services in Burlington and at Woodside Juvenile Rehabilitation Center in Colchester — is now affiliated with Hannah’s House, a nonprofit mental health center with offices in Waitsfield and Waterbury. For the last year, she’s also been taking Canuck twice a week to Harwood Union High School in Duxbury to provide mental health counseling to students. Those services were especially valuable in the aftermath of a 2016 collision on Interstate 89 that killed five local teenagers. For our Animal Issue, Holleran spoke to Kids VT about how Canuck helps in her counseling work.

ISSUE

How can a therapy dog help when counseling children and teens?

THE

JULY 2018 KIDS VT

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Learn and explore the fundamentals of circus artistry and physical comedy while embracing the power of play!

Instructors have performed in Cirque du Soleil, starred on Broadway and Sesame Street, and have taught at the legendary Ringling Brothers Clown College. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity! Drop-off & pick-up is at the BCA Center, 135 Church St. Downtown Burlington LEARN MORE AND REGISTER AT: BURLINGTONCITYARTS.ORG Untitled-45 1

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JULY 27-29

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

STOWE, VERMONT

GRAB A FRIEND You’re Going To Need Them

• • •

Ages 6-14 • 3.5-5 Mile Course Race in Teams of Two • 12-15 Obstacles A Weekend of Fun & A Lifetime of Memories

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BY THE NUMBERS COM P I L E D B Y M A RY A N N L IC K T EIG

Pets

THE Fun facts about our favorite companions

TOP 5 DOG NAMES IN 20172

TOP 5 CAT NAMES IN 20173

Female

1. Bella 2. Lucy 3. Daisy 4. Luna 5. Lola

1. Luna 2. Bella 3. Lucy 4. Lily 5. Nala

ISSUE

TOP FIVE PET-OWNING STATES1 RANKED BY PERCENTAGE OF HOUSEHOLDS THAT OWN A PET

New Mexico 67.6% South Dakota 65.6% Oregon 63.3% Maine 62.6%

1 Vermont

RANKED BY PERCENTAGE OF HOUSEHOLDS THAT OWN A PET

Male

1. Max 2. Charlie 3. Cooper 4. Buddy 5. Jack

1. Oliver 2. Milo 3. Leo 4. Charlie 5. Max

PERCENTAGE OF DOG NAMES THAT ARE HUMAN NAMES2

HOW U.S. PET OWNERS VIEW THEIR PETS1

70 million dogs

63.2% as family members

35.8%

1.2 million snakes

as pets or companions

KIDSVT.COM

AVERAGE VETERINARY EXPENDITURES PER PET PER YEAR1

1.1 million hamsters

44%

51.8%

1. Apollo 2. Earl 3. Ball Python 4. Bruce 5. Charlie

8.3 million birds

74.1 million cats

Maryland 52.3 % California 52.9% Minnesota 53% Rhode Island 53%

Illinois

TOP 5 REPTILE NAMES IN 20174

ESTIMATED NUMBER OF PETS IN THE U.S.1

70.8%

BOTTOM FIVE PET-OWNING STATES1 Male

as property

Birds $14

3.1%

36.5%

748,000 ferrets SOURCE: 1 AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 2012 2 ROVER.COM 3 HEALTHY PAWS PET INSURANCE & FOUNDATION 4 CUTENESS.COM

“By the Numbers” is a column in which we present data about topics of interest to parents. Got a subject you’d like us to dig into? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

KIDS VT

Cats $90

30.4

JULY 2018

$227

PERCENTAGE OF U.S. HOUSEHOLDS THAT OWN1

THE

ISSUE

Journi Luten, one of James Messier’s animal science students, poses with a cow from Missisquoi Valley Union’s agricultural program.

Cows and Classwork An animal science teacher reflects on a half century of educating kids

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

BY BRETT STANCIU

gallon of gas sold for 30 cents, a stamp cost a nickel and Vermont had 9,247 farms in 1964, when James Messier began teaching as the sole agricultural instructor at Highgate Elementary and High School. Much has changed in Vermont agriculture since then — the number of farms has dropped to 7,300 — but Messier has been a constant presence. The septuagenarian, who lives in the same Franklin farmhouse where his family moved when he was less than a year old, still works with Vermont youngsters passionate about pursuing a hands-on career in agriculture. Messier, 78, now teaches part-time at Missisquoi Valley Union Middle/High School. On a Tuesday morning in June, as he wrapped up another school year, Messier made plans to teach an advanced class in the fall, at some of his students’ request. The teenagers — all young women — have professional aspirations ranging from an artificial inseminator technician to working with goats. Later that morning, his Animal Science II high

school students settled into their desks. Messier, a soft-spoken man who limps due to a sore knee, displayed an easy command of the classroom. He instructed one boy to remove his cap. “Most of the time, the students are pretty good,” Messier said. “Once in a while, their mouths get out of control. I don’t like to repeat myself. Sometimes I do come down hard.” Messier insists on discipline for good reasons. He informed the students that yesterday’s class left the school’s pregnant donkey, Esther, in a pen without water. Because the weather was cool and overcast, the donkey was OK, but that day’s highs were expected to be in the 80s. “That can’t happen again,” he said. After changing into muck boots, Messier’s students headed out to the barn. They care for two beef steers, two heifers, two hogs, a miniature horse, the pregnant donkey and Messier’s riding horse; 30 layers roost in the henhouse. Though other schools have chickens, MVU is believed to

be one of only two schools in the state to have such a wide range of livestock on site, according to the Vermont Agency of Education. Students are assigned animals to tend and stalls to clean. The pairings change periodically, as some animals head to market to be slaughtered, and others arrive. Last winter, the town of Highgate loaned the program its swan — a particularly highmaintenance bird that favored romaine lettuce and hated his antibiotics. Messier and his students formed Thunderbird Meat Co-op (named for the school mascot) to sell the meat the program produces. MVU buys Thunderbird ground beef for its school lunch program. Additional pork and beef are sold to the public. MVU’s family and consumer science class and the school staff buy the program’s eggs. In the summer, eggs are donated to local food shelves and to Martha’s Kitchen, a St. Albans nonprofit that provides free meals. Anson Tebbetts, Vermont’s secretary of

Kids VT: What was teaching like when you began in 1964? James Messier: There was no specialization back then. No curriculum either. What happened was instructors would visit families and kids during the summer and ask, “What do you want to learn next year?” So that became your curriculum. You had resource materials that would support what students wanted to learn. There was no such thing as programmed curriculum. Now you can buy a curriculum, and the teacher doesn’t have to do anything except open it up ... We had to write everything out by hand and use a mimeograph machine. The first mimeograph machine wasn’t even electric. You had to hand-crank it. KVT: What else has changed? JM: Back when I first started, there were ag programs in many schools scattered all through the state. Now they bus kids to tech programs. That’s when things really changed. A lot of the individual school programs went out when students went to the tech centers ... Another thing that’s changed — in this last class, there were six girls and three boys. [The program was originally nearly all boys.] Also what’s changed is that back when I first started, 90 to 100 percent of the kids were from a farm. Now it may be 50-50. It may be less than 50-50. COWS AND CLASSWORK, P. 22 »

KIDS VT

MVU students’ Thunderbird Meat Co-op’s pork ranges from $4 to $4.75 per pound; beef is $5 to $14 per pound. To order, contact James Messier at jmessier@fnwsu.org. Then grill a summertime feast with locally raised meat, while supporting youth in agriculture.

the students. They’re all friends, she said, and “they treat each other as equals.” Before the students left the barnyard to return to the classroom, Messier asked if the animals were watered, cleaned, bedded and fed. The students confirmed they were. In the classroom, Messier directed students to “listen up.” They returned to a complex problem about researching a seed mixture to sow on the pasture and calculating proportions. “These are decisions farmers have to make every day,” Messier told the class. That sentence encapsulates Messier’s educational approach — teaching students to make real-world decisions based on experience. Messier became an educator after graduating from the University of Vermont and working briefly as a dairy farmer. He turned to teaching for the affordability of health insurance. In 1970, Highgate’s high school was consolidated into Missisquoi Valley Union Middle/High School. Highgate’s high school agricultural program moved to MVU four years later; Messier has worked there ever since. Today, around 200 middle and high schoolers take classes in MVU’s Agricultural Science and Technology Department, which offers hands-on training in sugaring, forestry, aquaculture, raising garden plants in a greenhouse, and tending blueberries, apples and winter-hardy kiwi. Because much of farming relies on machinery, the department

JULY 2018

Visit them at Franklin County Field Days, August 2-5, in Highgate. MVU’s Future Farmers of America operates the ice cream booth, provides animals for the petting zoo and showcases their work in educational exhibits.

Thousands of students have passed through Messier’s classroom in his more than 50 years on the job.

KIDSVT.COM

Interested in meeting Missisquoi Valley’s Animal Science students and the livestock they care for?

PHOTOS BY TIM SANTIMORE

James Messier on his riding horse

teaches mechanics and welding as well. Messier’s animal science classes cover animal care, ranging from grooming manes to calculating antibiotic doses to marketing meat. In the 1970s, Messier helped write the state curriculum for what was then called agricultural and livestock production. In 2008, he was granted an honorary degree from the Future Farmers of America. In 2015, Messier became the only Vermonter to receive the organization’s prestigious National VIP Award. Thousands of students have passed through Messier’s classroom in his more than 50 years on the job. Matt Choiniere, who graduated from MVU in 2013, said he gained skills he uses nearly every day as a farmer in the two mechanics classes he took from Messier. “The mechanical understanding I have taken away from my classes and welding skills he taught me have proven to be invaluable,” Choiniere said. He now works at his family’s organic farm, Choiniere Family Farm, alongside his father, Guy, who is also a former student of Messier’s — and a member of the MVU program’s advisory board. Said the younger Choiniere of their former instructor: “Not only was he a great teacher, he was also a great role model.” Messier spoke with Kids VT about what’s changed over his long teaching career.

agriculture, food and markets, sampled a Thunderbird burger when he visited MVU for its annual end-of-year barbecue in May. The program provides “a wonderful education,” he said later in an email. “From start to finish, the students are involved in a business. They raise and feed the animals. They have the animals processed. They are also learning about marketing their product and getting it distributed. These are not easy tasks, but they are learning all aspects of agriculture.” The surrounding community — where working farms occupy much of the land — contributes significantly to the program. Farmers loan animals to the school for students to raise, then return. Montgomery’s Breezy Acres Farm gave the program four hogs. The students raised three and sent them to market, and returned the fourth to the farm after it was impregnated. Cargill Animal Nutrition, with a branch in Swanton, donates feed. Leader Evaporator, a major manufacturer of sugaring equipment in Swanton, takes student interns, as do local farms. The program hays 20 acres at Highgate Elementary School for the animals’ use. During the summer, most animals return to their home farms or go to the Tyler Place Family Resort’s petting zoo in Highgate Springs. The laying hens and beef animals remain at the school, where Messier’s wife, Ronna, tends to them in her role as agricultural activities director. Some students taking agricultural classes at MVU live on farms, others in towns. Many hold paying farm jobs. In the barnyard, the teens spoke knowledgeably about the animals and exuded confidence in their hands-on work. Trinity Chevalier, who was paired this winter with the swan, described herself as “more of a goat person.” Journi Luten, laughing at a stubborn animal, said, “You can tell this is not my cow.” She’s especially gentle with the animals, and her particular passion is tending the calves. “Everything about the cows is interesting,” she said. A support staff member remarked that farm work levels out socioeconomic differences between

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Kids have questions. We find answers.

A podcast for curious kids.

KVT: What else is different for students now? JM: Higher education is a lot more expensive. So students who go on to higher ed come out with a bachelor of arts or sciences and have no career in mind. You going to flip hamburgers at McDonald’s to pay off a 150K college fee? We have schools that are still pushing for kids to go to a four-year college. KVT: Why do you think that is? JM: There’s a lot of negative press that isn’t deserved, but guidance counselors read it, or administrators read it, and think, What the heck, no sense in supporting the ag program because ag is on its way out. Excuse me, but they have no idea of the working world. Ag is not going to be on its way out in Vermont.

KIDS VT

KVT: Do you have a particular student success story you’d like to share? JM: There’s not one success story. I’m really proud of students who

22 k4t-vpr0218.indd 1

KVT: Do you notice changes in families from the 1960s to today? JM: People are super concerned about liability, as they should be. Years ago, on field trips, kids would go up in silos and check things out. I wouldn’t let kids do that for anything in the world today. In some cases, parent support was stronger when I started than the average situation is today. If you keep telling somebody that they never do anything wrong, when they do things wrong — and that happens with everybody — that doesn’t prepare them for the real world. You don’t get through this world without making a mistake.

KVT: Do students ever have difficulty with animals going to slaughter? JM: They know when the program starts what’s going to happen. Some take it better than others. Sometimes it’s harder for students who have hogs for a project. Their project gets loaded up on a trailer and disappears before the semester ends. They take it well; they understand.

JULY 2018

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Cows and Classwork

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CONTINUED FROM P. 21

we have trained and could succeed in employment without going to a four-year or technical college ... I have six or seven welders at Leader Evaporator. They didn’t go beyond this welding program. They’re making $15 to $18 dollars an hour. KVT: Where else do some of your students work after they graduate? JM: A former student of mine — and his son, who was a student of mine — have a diversified ag farm and they’re organic ... But his milk, rather than bringing $17 a hundred (farmers are paid for milk by weight), it’s $38 a hundred. Right next to him is a conventional farmer; he gets $17 a hundred. That’s why we talk about diversified ag here. I have a former student who milks goats now. He used to milk cows. He was a mechanic when he was here, and he welded his own milking parlor. He’s getting $34 or $37 per hundred for his milk. So, agriculture is changing. Some farmers are finding it easier to stay small and diversify. Diversified ag is the reason we have sheep and pigs and goats, dairy and cattle and horses and beef [in the program at MVU]. KVT: Can you describe your role as an educator? JM: The bottom line is that the program is for the kids, not me. The kids make the decisions about their meat sales, how we’re going to market our program, and so on. I’m just a facilitator. KVT: What do you think is most important for students to learn? JM: I like to think that I don’t just teach subject matter. I think ethics, responsibility and how to get along with others are personal skills kids can use no matter what they do. Sometimes that’s just as important as a particular skill. I also try not to take myself too seriously. KVT: You’ve been teaching for more than 50 years. Any plans to retire? JM: I would like to retire and get out of here before people have to bring me in with a wheelchair. But not yet. K

JUST FOR KIDS

6. Platybelodon: An early elephant who had two giant, shovel-like teeth coming from his lower jaw, so that he could scoop up roots to eat.

JULY 2018

7. Woolly Mammoth: Another ancient elephant, who had a very warm fur coat, which he really needed in the Ice Age.

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5. Irish Elk: A ancient deer who was 7 feet tall at the shoulder, and whose massive antlers spanned 12 feet.

4. Doedicurus: A huge early armadillo with a dangerous spiked ball at the end of his tail.

KIDS VT

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Incredible Insect Festival: Nature fans learn about the lives of these amazing creatures through hands-on activities, demonstrations, stories and crafts. In the Caterpillar Lab, expert Sam Jaffe introduces curious guests to an array of live critters. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Quechee.

KIDS VT

JULY 2018

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JUL 7

SUN

Circuspalooza Goes West: Inspired by Shelburne Museum’s special exhibition “Playing Cowboy,” families saddle up for some downhome fun at this circus extravaganza, with rodeo carnival games, square dancing, live western music from the Starline Rhythm Boys, a barbecue and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Shelburne Museum, Shelburne. JUL 15

SAT

Lake Champlain Maritime Festival Pirate Park: Captains of the sea snap photos with Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate and Mermaid Dalni, and take an imaginary cruise across the Seven Seas with Captain Mike. Live music, a bouncy house and lots more kid-focused fun make it a memorable day on the shoreline. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Waterfront Park, Burlington. JUL 28

The Great Outdoors

Like the University of Vermont Medical Center on Facebook and get weekly updates from Dr. First! See “First With Kids” videos at uvmhealth.org.

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Week to Week

SUBMIT YOUR AUGUST EVENTS FOR PRINT BY JULY 15 AT KIDSVT.COM OR CALENDAR@KIDSVT.COM

3 Tuesday ADDISON Bristol Fourth of July Celebration: This small town celebrates the Fourth in a big way with a chicken BBQ, games, live music and fireworks at dusk on Tuesday, followed by a 7:30 a.m. 5K on the 4th, a 10:30 a.m. parade, food and craft vendors, and more festivities. Various locations, Bristol. CHITTENDEN Burlington 3rd of July Independence Day Celebration: Live bands and fun-filled activities — including stilt walkers, face painting and theater acts — set the scene for spectacular fireworks over Lake Champlain. See btvjuly3. com for specific schedule and locations. Fourth of July Crafting Workshop: Creative ones pursue imaginative projects. Ages 12 and under. Milton Public Library, 1-2:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE 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. Info, 865-7216. FREE

STEAM Series: Inventive youngsters make musical instruments and explore the world of sound. Ages 5-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Tuesday Night Trail Running Series: Athletes of all ages and abilities choose between 2.5- and 5-kilometer courses or a short “cubs” race — with a 10K option on the second Tuesday of each month — during this fun evening race. Catamount Outdoor Family Center, Williston, 6 p.m., $4-12; free for children under 8. Info, 879-6001. Wildflowers Open Studio: With rotating weekly themes, little ones in play clothes check out paint exploration, tinkering, sensory play and open-ended art. Ages 1-12. Wildflowers Studio, Essex, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $15 per child, $5 each additional child, unlimited summer membership $75. Info, 662-2001.

Winooski Lego Club: Budding builders bust out plastic-block creations with the weekly Lego challenge. Free meals available for ages 18 and under. Winooski Memorial Library, 3-6 p.m. Info, 655-6424. FREE

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 bullyproofing 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 overmontbjj.com or email julio@bjjusa.com to register your son or daughter! EVOKIDS YOGA SUMMER CLASSES: July 6-Aug. 1, register for any 3 of the 4 classes for $40, and make space for yoga time and beach time this summer! Ages newborn to 5. Evolution Family Yoga Center, 20 Kilburn St., Burlington. Info, evolutionprenatalandfamily.com. PRENATAL & POSTNATAL YOGA CLASSES AT EVOLUTION PRENATAL YOGA CENTER:

Have a more comfortable pregnancy and prepare for birth with stretching, strengthening and relaxation in prenatal yoga — and then bring 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 a.m.; Sundays, 10:15 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 p.m. Postnatal Yoga: Sundays, 12:15 p.m.; Tuesdays, 10 a.m.; Thursdays, 10:45 a.m.; Fridays, 8:15 a.m. Drop-ins welcome, $15/class, $130/10 class pass or $75/ monthly unlimited. Location: Evolution Prenatal Yoga Center, 20 Kilburn Street, Burlington. Info, evolutionprenatalandfamily.com.

Reading Frederick Douglass in Montpelier: This participatory event asks community members to read — or witness — the fiery July 5, 1852 speech in which this great abolitionist orator took exception to commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, noon. Info, 223-3338. FREE

WINDSOR Norwich Lego Tuesdays: Imaginative architects bust out blocks and get busy. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Norwich Public Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Info, 649-1184. FREE

Yoga for Girls: Girls ages 12 and up work on body awareness, posture alignment and core strength in a supportive and all-abilities setting. Bethel Moves, 3:30-4:45 p.m., $15. Info, 234-8902.

NEW YORK Ticonderoga Independence Day Weekend Celebration: History buffs celebrate America by watching reenactments and listening to patriotic music on the grounds where soldiers served to secure independence. Fort Ticonderoga, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., $10-24; free for children under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

4 Wednesday Happy Independence Day! ADDISON Bristol Fourth of July Celebration: See July 3. Middlebury Farmers Market: Crafts, cheeses, breads, veggies, eggs and more vie for spots in shoppers’ totes. Middlebury VFW, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

CHITTENDEN Colchester Fourth of July Celebration: AllAmerican revelry includes a fun run at 8:15 a.m., a parade at 11 a.m. and live music, topped off with fireworks at dusk. Various locations, Colchester, $5 for fun run. Info, 264-5500. FREE Williston Fourth of July: See July 3.

FRANKLIN Fairfax Fourth of July: Beginning at 1 p.m., a two-mile parade route to the recreation park is followed by the always-popular Ducky Race. Fairfax Community Park & Recreation Path. Info, 849-6111. GRAND ISLE Champlain Islands Farmers Market: Growers, specialty food businesses and artisans sell their homemade wares. St. Rose of Lima Parish, South Hero, 3-6 p.m.

RUTLAND Rutland Farmers Market: Local vendors peddle farm-fresh produce and fruits, handcrafted breads, artisan cheese and more at this outdoor emporium. Downtown Rutland, 3-6 p.m. Info, 342-4727. Rutland Fourth of July Celebration: Awardwinning fireworks at 9:45 p.m. cap Summer Smash 2018, which includes carnival-style concessions and the Demolition Derby. Gates open at 2 p.m.; Smash begins at 6:30 p.m. Vermont State Fairgrounds, Rutland, $11.50-21; free parking. Info, 775-5200.

ORANGE Reading Frederick Douglass in Randolph: This participatory event asks community members to read — or witness — the fiery July 5, 1852 speech in which this great abolitionist orator took exception to commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Kimball Public Library, Randolph, noon. Info, 728-5073. FREE

ORLEANS Barton Fourth of July: Agricultural events — from tractor pulls to a professional lumberjack round-up — kick off festivities. A grand parade starts downtown at 2 p.m. Fireworks follow at dusk. Orleans County Fair Grounds, Barton, 9 a.m.-9:45 p.m., $8; free for children under 10; free parking; free admission to fairgrounds after 7:30 p.m. Info, 525-3555. WASHINGTON Cabot Fourth of July: A Main Street parade at 11 a.m. leads to an afternoon of fun in the sun, including field games, a chicken barbecue and a dunk tank. Cabot Recreation Field. Info, 563-3338. Warren Fourth of July: Thousands don red, white and blue to attend one of the state’s largest parades at 10 a.m., followed by a street dance. Events continue all day at Sugarbush Resort until a finale of fireworks at dusk. Various locations, Warren, suggested donation $1. Info, 496-3409.

WINDSOR ‘An Old Vermont Fourth’: Traditional music, flag making, hand-cranked ice cream and a reading of the Declaration of Independence combine for a patriotic celebration. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., regular museum admission, $4-16; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355. Reading Frederick Douglass in Woodstock: This participatory event asks community members to read — or witness — the fiery July 5, 1852 speech in which this great abolitionist orator took exception to commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Norman Williams Public Library, Woodstock, 2 p.m. Info, 457-2295. FREE

KIDS VT

The Grand Kitchen: This cooking class, led by Nutrition and Wellness Coordinator Anna Townsend and Registered Dietician Jaya Davis, links kids and grandparents in the kitchen, with topics including how to prepare nutritious meals and savvy grocery store shopping. Ages 8-12 with older adult. Vermont Farmers Food Center, Rutland, 1-3 p.m., preregister. Info, 786-5990. FREE

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

Montpelier 3rd of July Independence Day Celebration: The state house lawn hosts 3 p.m. opening ceremonies for the 2018 Family Olympics with friendly games promoting teamwork and self-confidence. The Montpelier Mile footrace is at 6 p.m., followed by a parade, live music, loads of food vendors — and fireworks finish the evening with a flourish. Downtown Montpelier, 3-11 p.m., food available for sale. Info, 223-9604. FREE

LAMOILLE Stowe Fourth of July Celebration: An old-fashioned shindig starts at 10 a.m. with marching music in the Moscow parade. Face painting, music, a pie-eating contest, a 1 p.m. village parade and more follow from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The fun picks up at Mayo Farm at 6 p.m., with fireworks at dusk. Various locations, Stowe, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Info, 253-7321. FREE

JULY 2018

RUTLAND Chess Club: Strategists of all skill levels partner up for playing. Ages 6 and up. Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington, 3-4 p.m. Info, 422-9765. FREE

Classes

WASHINGTON Family Fun Day at the Pool: Families meet up for fun in the water and at the poolside. Open to all. Montpelier Public Pool, 1:30-4 p.m.; food available for purchase. Info, 225-8699. FREE

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Williston Fourth of July: Williston fêtes the national holiday over two days, with a 5K Firecracker Fun Run Tuesday at 6 p.m., an ice cream social and a concert on the town green. A 10 a.m. festival parade launches Wednesday, followed by music and activities, including a Fire Department Open House from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and a fireworks display at dusk. Williston Green, 6 p.m., fees for some activities. Info, 876-1160. FREE

ORLEANS Kindness Rocks Project: Artists of all ages paint stones with uplifting images and positive words, then hide these sweet messages around town. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info, 586-9683. FREE

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JULY

4 Wednesday (cont.) Woodstock Market on the Green: Fresh vegetables, farm eggs, local meats and cheeses, cut flowers, and seasonal fruits and berries represent the best of the growing season, with the accompaniment of live music. Woodstock Village Green, 3-6 p.m. Info, 457-3555.

NEW YORK Ticonderoga Independence Day Weekend Celebration: See July 3.

5 Thursday CALEDONIA Crankie Picture Show: An audience of all ages is amused by storytelling, a box with a crank and live music. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 4 p.m. Info, 472-5948. FREE Peacham Farmers Market: Local vendors spread their wares of organic produce, meat, eggs, maple products, baked goods, ice cream, crafts — with live music and kids activities, too. Peacham Village Green, 3-7 p.m. Info, 592-3118.

Fairs and Festivals

SUMMERVALE: Slow Food Vermont tastings,

live music, kids’ crafts and food-focused activities varying by week promise locavore fun in the sun. No pets. Burlington Intervale Center, THURSDAYS, 5:30-8 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 30, food and drink available for purchase. Info, 660-0440. FREE ARTSRIOT TRUCK STOP BURLINGTON: Foodie families enjoy an eclectic array of local grub and live music during this hip block party. ArtsRiot, Burlington, FRIDAYS, 5-10 P.M., THROUGH SEP. 21, cost for food. Info, 540-0406. STOWEFLAKE HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL:

Floating orbs transport people through the sky at a balloon-launch fest with plenty of entertainment and eats. Festival and kids’ tent opens at 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. 7 p.m. approximate time for sunset launches on Friday and Saturday. Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, FRIDAY, JULY 6, 4 P.M., SATURDAY, JULY 7, 6:30 A.M. AND SUNDAY, JULY 8, 6:30 A.M., free to view the 6:30

Rockin’ Ron

a.m. Saturday and Sunday morning launches, $10 admission to festival events, free for children under 12, $10 for tethered rides. Info, 253-7355, ext. 5538.

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

INCREDIBLE INSECT FESTIVAL:

Nature fans navigate the lives of these amazing creatures through hands-on activities, demonstrations, story and crafts — and check out the Sun Common Bounce House, too. In the Caterpillar Lab, expert Sam Jaffe introduces eager guests to multiple live critters. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, SATURDAY, JULY 7, 10 A.M.-5 P.M., regular museum admission, $13.50-15.50, free for children under 4. Info, 359-5000. MIDDLEBURY FESTIVAL-ON-THE-GREEN:

Music-loving families delight in daily concerts all week long, including “brown bag” family-friendly jam sessions at noon each day. Festivities begin Sunday at 7 p.m. and evening performances fill the night air Monday through Friday. A Vermont Jazz Ensemble street dance closes the festival Saturday, July 14, starting at 7 p.m. Middlebury Green, SUNDAY, JULY 8 TO SATURDAY, JULY 14, donations welcome. Info, 462-3555. FREE

SOBU NITE OUT: Festive-minded folks flock

to the park for a fête of live music and food trucks. Veterans Memorial Park, South Burlington, THURSDAY, JULY 12, 5-8 P.M. AND THURSDAY, JULY 26, 5-8 P.M. Info, 846-4108. FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2018: Live music enter-

tains the downtown crowd, coupled with good food and children’s activities, including outdoor workshops by Wonderfeet Kids’ Museum and equipment provided by the Rutland Rec. Downtown Rutland, FRIDAYS, 5-10 P.M., THROUGH JULY 27. Info, 773-9380. FREE

NEWPORT’S FRIDAY NIGHT SHUFFLE: The

community comes out for a summer downtown stroll to enjoy live music, art exhibits and specials at local eateries. Various locations, Newport, FRIDAY, JULY 13, 5-8:30 P.M. Info, 988-2611. ANTIQUES & UNIQUES: 100 antiques and collectibles vendors, jewelry makers, quilters, food vendors, woodworkers and potters share their goodies. Roaming buskers and picnicking round out the day. Craftsbury Common, SATURDAY, JULY 14, 10 A.M.-4 P.M., donations accepted for

area non-profits; $5 parking fee for Craftsbury fire department. Info, 586-2823. DO GOOD FEST: Food trucks, kids’ activities and a village showcasing local nonprofits make for a family-friendly celebration. Live music begins at 4 p.m., with musicians including Phillip Phillips, Caitlin Canty and the Chad Hollister Band. National Life Group, Montpelier, SATURDAY, JULY 14, 2:30-9 P.M., $20-25 parking fee; proceeds benefit Branches of Hope, a Cancer Patient Fund. Info, 800-732-8939. CIRCUSPALOOZA GOES WEST: Inspired by

the Museum’s special exhibition “Playing Cowboy,” families saddle up for a honkytonk time at this circus show extravaganza, with rodeo carnival games, square dancing, live western music from the Starline Rhythm Boys, BBQ and more. Shelburne Museum, SUNDAY, JULY 15, 10 A.M.-4 P.M., regular museum admission, $8-25, free for members and children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

CHITTENDEN Colchester Lego Club: Mini-makers participate in surprise challenges with interlocking toys. Ages 6-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4 p.m. Info, 264-5660. FREE Family Concert with Rik Palieri: This local musician makes merry with a combination of songs and stories from his travels, featuring the banjo, guitar, Ozark mouth bow and Native American flute. All ages, but children ages 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 1-3 p.m., preregister. Info, 482-2878. FREE FIZZY FEST: In this hands-on, messy festival, young scientists search out the secrets behind carbonated beverages, explore experiments that bubble and ooze, and play in agiant pile of foam. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, FRIDAY, JULY 20, 10 A.M.-5 P.M. AND SATURDAY, JULY 21, 10 A.M.-5 P.M., regular museum

admission, $11.50-14.50, free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848. FAIRY HOUSE FESTIVAL — CELEBRATING FAIRIES, GNOMES AND ELVES: Wee ones

visit the Fairy Village and build diminutive, magical dwellings from natural materials. Michael Caduto adds to the merriment with music and tales of Little People from Around the World. Costumes encouraged. Justin Morrill Homestead, Strafford Village, SATURDAY, JULY 21, 1-3 P.M., $5-10; preregister by July 16. Info, 765-4288. MAPLE MADNESS: The community

celebrates sugaring season in July with all things maple, including sugar-on-snow, tree tapping, storytime, the maple Olympics and much more sweetness. Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, Montpelier, SATURDAY, JULY 21, 10 A.M.-7 P.M., food available for purchase. Info, 223-2740.

MONTPELIER BIOBLITZ: Based at two hubs — Hubbard Park and North Branch Nature Center — this outdoor jamboree combines live music, dancing, camping, games, bike races, trail runs, kids activities, animals, nature walks and more. Biologists and volunteers from around the northeast spread across the city and gather data for environmental conservation by discovering and documenting every species in the Capital City. Various locations, Montpelier, SATURDAY, JULY 21 AND SUNDAY, JULY 22, small fee for parking and camping. Info, 229-6206. LAMOILLE COUNTY FIELD DAYS: Families

enjoy a pay-one-price event kicking off the summer season of fairs. Kids fun includes pedal pulls, clowns, magic shows, games, rides and prizes. Lamoille County Field Days Fair Grounds, Johnson, FRIDAY, JULY 27, SATURDAY, JULY 28 AND SUNDAY, JULY 29, $10-12, $30 per person for a 3-day pass. See lamoillefielddays.com for daily schedule. Info, 635-7113. LAKE CHAMPLAIN MARITIME FESTIVAL PIRATE PARK: Hey, mates! Captains of the sea

snap photos with Rockin’ Ron and Mermaid Dalni and cruise with Captain Mike over the Seven Seas through games and activities. Live music, a bouncy house and more make this a memorable waterfront day devoted to the young. Waterfront Park, Burlington, SATURDAY, JULY 28, 9 A.M.-1 P.M. Info, 482-3313.

Read and Sip: Small ones savor snacks, juice and stories. Ages 5-10. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Very Merry Theatre: ‘The Jungle Book’: This local children’s theatre company gets the crowd clapping for Kipling’s beloved classic tale about Mowgli, the boy raised by a family of wolves. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, noon. Info, 878-4918. FREE Williston Preschool Music: Lively tunes with local musicians strike the right note among the wee crowd. Second Thursdays feature Spanish music with Constancia Gomez. Ages 5 and under with a caregiver. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m., limited to one session per week per family. Info, 878-4918. FREE

FRANKLIN Franklin Lego Thursdays: Kiddie constructionists combine their creativity with the library’s supplies. Haston Library, Franklin, 1-6 p.m. Info, 285-6505. FREE Makey Makey Music: This STEAM — science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics — program gets kids hands-on with creating music through computers. Haston Library, Franklin, 10 a.m. Info, 285-6505. FREE PJ Story Time: Bedtime tales and stuffed friends ease the transition to dreamland. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 6 p.m. Info, 827-3945. FREE St. Albans Circle of Parents for Foster & Adoptive Families: Parents share childrearing stories to strengthen skills and build strong families. Franklin County Seniors Center, St. Albans, 5:30-7:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 524-1700. FREE Weekly Trail Runs: Athletes of all ages and abilities break a sweat at their own pace in a 5K race, 3K walk/run or 1K kids run. Hard’ack, St. Albans, 6-7:30 p.m., $4-6; kids 1K is free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

ORLEANS The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Newport: Children ages 18 and under receive nutritious, locally-sourced meals at no cost from this mobile kitchen. Food available for purchase for adults. Gardner Memorial Park, Newport, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info, 334-2044. FREE NEW YORK Ticonderoga Independence Day Weekend Celebration: See July 3.

6 Friday Brandon Independence Day Celebration: The fun kicks off Friday at Seminary Park with a food fest and street dance. Saturday festivities are held at Park Village, with karaoke, family games, a 1 p.m. parade and live music, topped off with fireworks at dusk.

CALEDONIA Hardwick Farmers Market: Local produce, plants, artisan cheese, syrup and more fill shoppers’ market baskets. Diverse dinner fare available. Atkins Field, Hardwick, 3-6 p.m. Info, 832-603-9334. CHITTENDEN Dance, Dance Revolution: Hip youngsters don their dancing shoes for this Wii DDR Hottest Party 3. Cool drinks and snacks served. Ages 10 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 7-8:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

SUBMIT YOUR AUGUST EVENTS FOR PRINT BY JULY 15 AT KIDSVT.COM OR CALENDAR@KIDSVT.COM

Vermont Ballet Theater and School CENTER FOR DANCE

Family Fun Night: Family-focused activities alternate, from a magic show to a musical sing-a-long. See website for specifics. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:30 p.m. Info, 426-3581. FREE

Embodied Theater with Michelle: Participants pursue the art of listening to self and others by playing theater and sound games. Ages 7 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Evolution Yoga at Adam’s Berry Farm: Families drop into the farm for fitness stretching with EvoKids yoga. All ages. Adam’s Organic Berry Farm, Charlotte, 9:3010:15 a.m., $10-15 per family; preregister. Info, 598-9093. Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment provides tiny tumblers a chance to run free. Ages 7 and under with caregivers. Greater Burlington YMCA, 10:15-11:45 a.m., $5-8 per family; free for members; preregister. Info, 862-9622. Family Jam: With a fun-based motto of “Anything Goes,” kids launch into a variety of instructor-led activities on the water, including SUP disc golf, hula hooping, surf skiing, jousting and various balance games. All ages. Oakledge Park, Burlington, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m., $12 per child; parents paddle free. Info, 881-4905. Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: Toe-tapping tunes captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Info, 660-9346. FREE Magic: The Gathering: Planeswalkers seek knowledge and glory in this trading-card game. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

ESSEX The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Island Pond: Children ages 18 and under receive nutritious, locally-sourced meals at no cost from this mobile kitchen. Food available for purchase for adults. Pavilion Park, Island Pond, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info, 334-2044. FREE

Now Open!!

Classes begin on September 10th

Foodways Fridays: Guests tour the heirloom garden, then watch as veggies make their way into historic recipes prepared in the 1890 farmhouse kitchen, with different menus every Friday. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., regular museum admission, $4-16; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Ballet • Pointe • Modern • Jazz • Lyrical Contemporary Hip-Hop • Yoga • Pilates • Cardio and more. Ages 3-Adult, Beginner-Pre-Professional Register at vbts.org today!

TWO LOCATIONS!

NEW YORK Ticonderoga Independence Day Weekend Celebration: See July 3.

Essex Campus: 21 Carmichael Street, Suite 203 Shelburne Campus: 4066 Shelburne Road

Vermont ballet theater school

7Simply Saturday the

Best!

Inspiring Green Mountain dancers, bringing Conservation Camp art This to life Summer Let Nature Nurture...

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Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 4. Children’s Ballet St. Stephen’s Peasant Market in Story Camps

Middlebury: Summer strollers stop by

this family festival with treasures for sale Intermediate clothing, jewelry, linens, toys, furniture, & of Advanced plants, a food tent, children’s activities and Ballet Camps & more. Classes Middlebury Green, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., proceeds benefit local charities. Info, 803-

Adult Classes FREE 381-8747. in Ballet, Yoga and Pilates CALEDONIA

CHITTENDEN Burlington Farmers Market: Growers and artisans offer fresh and ready-to-eat foods, crafts and more in a bustling marketplace. Burlington City Hall Park, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Info, 310-5172.

6/28/18 2:18 PM

For schedule and enrollment information visit us at at Vbts www.vbts.org or call: 802-878-2941

Burke for Mountain Independence Day Classes all ages, Burke Mountain gets the party 3 Celebration: years through adult

Caledonia EnrollFarmers Market: Freshly baked goods, veggies, beef and maple syrup figure NOW! in displays of “shop local” prominently options. St. Johnsbury Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Info, 592-3088.

"Simply the Best"

Main office: 802-878-2941 The Dance Shop at VBTS: 802-879-7001 www.vbts.org • info@vbts.org

Official school of Vermont Ballet Theater, Winner of Readers Choice Award Best Ballet School, Alexander Nagiba Director.

ADDISON Brandon Independence Day Celebration: See July 6.

going with outdoor music, a children’s bike park, a bounce house, food vendors, scenic chairlift rides and a smashing display of Summer fireworks. Burke Mountain, East Burke, 5-10 Dance p.m., $5 per person entry fee; chairlift rides at an VBTS... additional $5 per person. Info, 626-7300.

2018-2019

CLASS REGISTRATION

“the Dance shop” at Vbts essex & shelburne 802-879-7001 info@vbts.org

Canoeing, fishing, archery, campfires and s’mores. What a great way to spend a week this summer. Discover Vermont’s wildlife and master outdoor skills. Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department offers one-week sessions for girls and boys, ages 12 to 14. Sessions run from June through August at two beautiful lake-side locations.

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, preregister at workshops.homedepot.com. Info, 872-0039. FREE

KIDS VT

WASHINGTON A Sound Investigation: In this hands-on demonstration, Mr. K. and curious kiddos investigate what causes sound, why music boxes work and how we recognize familiar sounds. Ages 5 and up. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 244-7036. FREE

VERMONT’S OWN NUTCRACKER AUDITIONS SEPTEMBER 29TH

JULY 2018

ORLEANS Craftsbury Lego Club: Petite ones build with plastic blocks and chat companionably. Ages 4-12. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 3-4:30 p.m. Info, 586-9683. FREE

First Friday: Triwizard Tournament: Potter fans relish an evening of J. K. Rowling with story time at 5 p.m., followed by themed games, activities and snacks. Costumes encouraged. Phoenix Books Misty Valley, Chester, 5-7 p.m. Info, 875-3400. FREE

KIDSVT.COM

FRANKLIN Vermont Institute of Natural Science: Young naturalists share an up-close encounter with live raptors, practice identifying birds by their calls, learn what these hoots might mean and how these unique sounds are made. All ages. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 1 p.m. Info, 827-3945.

WINDSOR Bethel First Friday Flicks: Families flock together for free films on the first Friday of each month. Seating available or bring blankets and beanbags. Bethel Town Hall, 6:30-8:30 p.m., donations accepted; popcorn and drinks available for purchase. Info, 234-6305. FREE

Photo by Kirsten nagiba

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

Learn more at www.vtfishandwildlife.com

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7 Saturday (cont.) Shelburne Farmers Market: Musical entertainment adds merriment to this exchange of local fruits, veggies, herbs, crafts, maple syrup and more. Shelburne Village Green, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Info, 482-4279.

FRANKLIN Bakersfield Independence Day Celebration: The community comes out for old-fashioned fun, with a parade at noon, followed by a chicken BBQ, a horseshoe tournament, live music, an airshow at 7 p.m. and a fireworks grand finale at dusk. Route 36 and Route 108, Bakersfield, 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Info, 827-6145. FREE

Live Performances CASTLETON SUMMER CONCERT SERIES:

Listeners enjoy a live performance under open skies. Castleton State College, TUESDAYS, 7 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 14. Info, 800-639-8521. FREE CIRCUS SMIRKUS BIG TOP TOUR IN WAITSFIELD: High-flying feats into the wild

MONDAY, JULY 2, 1 & 6 P.M. AND TUESDAY, JULY 3, 1 & 6 P.M., $16-22, free for children under 2.

Info, 877-764-7587.

BURLINGTON SUMMER CONCERTS: The lunch

crowd soaks up open-air performances held twice a week. Check burlingtoncityarts.org for specific lineup. Burlington City Hall Park,

WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS, NOON, THROUGH AUG. 29. Info, 865-7166. FREE BATTERY PARK CONCERT SERIES: Listeners

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

gaze out at Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks while swaying to summer tunes. Battery Park, Burlington, THURSDAYS, 6:30 P.M., THROUGH JULY 26. Info, 223-2396.

FREE

HUNGER MOUNTAIN CO-OP BROWN BAG SUMMER CONCERTS: Music lovers take in an

open-air noontime concert. Christ Church Courtyard, Montpelier, THURSDAYS, NOON, THROUGH AUG. 16. Info, 223-9604. FREE MARSHFIELD SUMMER CONCERT SERIES:

Picnickers settle down for the evening with a family-friendly band, a local food truck, and the library’s bake and book sale. Old Schoolhouse Common Gazebo, Marshfield, THURSDAYS, 6:30-8:30 P.M., THROUGH JULY 26. Info, 426-3581. FREE SNOW FARM VINEYARD SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: Weather permitting, crowds gather

for a weekly rotation of classical, jazz, swing, bluegrass and rock. Picnicking begins at 5 p.m.; music starts at 6:30 p.m. Food and drink available to purchase from various vendors. Snow Farm Vineyard, South Hero, THURSDAYS, THROUGH AUG. 30. Info, 372-9463. FREE

Excavating 101: Paleontologists-in-training pursue a dinosaur dig. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Info, 524-1507. FREE

GRAND ISLE Champlain Islands Farmers Market: Growers, specialty food businesses and artisans sell their high-quality wares. St. Joseph Church, Grand Isle, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

LAMOILLE Spanish Musical Kids: Buenos Aires native Constancia Gomez shares stories, singing, dancing and Latin culture with small ones and caregivers. Ages 5 and under. Varnum Memorial Library, Jeffersonville, 10-11 a.m. Info, 644-2117. FREE

Reading Frederick Douglass in North Hero: This participatory event asks community members to read — or witness — the fiery July 5, 1852 speech in which this great abolitionist orator took exception to commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. North Hero Public Library, 1 p.m. Info, 372-5458. FREE

‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’: 100 local youth perform this WWII-era heartwarming musical, featuring 17 beloved Irving Berlin songs in this celebration of the giving season in July. Chandler Music Hall, Randolph, THURSDAY,

JULY 5, 7 P.M., FRIDAY, JULY 6, 7 P.M., SATURDAY, JULY 7, 7 P.M. AND SUNDAY, JULY 8, 2 P.M.,

$12.75-19.25. Info, 728-6464.

CIRCUS SMIRKUS BIG TOP TOUR IN ESSEX JUNCTION: High-flying feats into the wild

blue yonder abound as Smirkus Troupers ages 10 to 18 dazzle crowds with jugglers, high-larious clowns and airborne aerialists, with a theme of “Vaudeville!” – a celebration of the grand American tradition of variety entertainment. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, FRIDAY, JULY 6, NOON & 6 P.M. AND SATURDAY, JULY 7, NOON & 6 P.M., $19-22, free for children under 2. Info, 877-764-7587.

NIGHT AT THE FARM: Families spread out their picnic blankets for a summer evening of live music, food truck fare and the farm’s own Sisters of Anarchy Ice Cream. Fisher Brothers Farm, Shelburne, FRIDAY, JULY 6, 6-8 P.M., food available for purchase. Info, 846-7370. FREE BURLINGTON CONCERT BAND SUMMER SERIES: The community spreads on a

summer’s evening with picnic baskets and blankets and listens to live tunes. Battery Park, Burlington, SUNDAY, JULY 8, 3-4:30 P.M.

AND SUNDAYS, 7-8:30 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 12.

Info, 864-0123. FREE

LEVITT AMP CONCERT SERIES AT DOG MOUNTAIN: Produced by Catamount Arts,

these family and canine-friendly Sundays at Dog Mountain include four-legged agility exhibitions and musical pre-performances beginning at 2pm, food truck vendors, games, and activities, with the main stage shows from 4-7 p.m. The Stephen Huneck Art Gallery opens at 10 a.m. Dog Mountain, St Johnsbury, SUNDAYS, 4-7 P.M., THROUGH SEP. 16., food and drink available for purchase. Info, 800-449-2580. FREE MUSIC IN THE MEADOW: Sunset over the

mountains burnishes the backdrop for an outdoor concert, with ample picnicking space. Gates open two hours before performance. Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe,

SUNDAY, JULY 8, 7:30-10 P.M., SUNDAY, JULY 15, 7-9 P.M. AND SUNDAY, JULY 29, 7-9 P.M., $10-35.

Info, 253-5720.

MUSIC IN THE PARK BY LC JAZZ: Bring a

chair and soak up a variety of Swing Big Band music by Little City Jazz in the park. Vergennes City Park, MONDAYS, 7 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 20. Info, vergennesdowntown. org. FREE

RUTLAND Battle of Hubbardton Revolutionary War Encampment Weekend: During the early morning hours of July 7, 1777, British General John Burgoyne’s army met the resistance of American colonists. This two-day reenactment invites the public to witness ongoing demonstrations of camp life, military tactics, engineering, cooking, crafts, medicine, artillery demonstrations and more. Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $3; free for children under 15. Info, 273-2282.

Looking for a story time? Check out our voluminous list at kidsvt.com/storytime

COMMUNITY CONCERT SERIES: Families,

friends and neighbors bring lawn chairs and blankets for an evening of fun, food for sale by area nonprofits and live bands, varying each week from country to jazz. Gifford Park, Randolph, TUESDAYS, 6 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 21. Info, 728-2380. FREE CRAFTSBURY CHAMBER PLAYERS MINICONCERT IN BURLINGTON: World-class

musicians present classical works from the baroque to the contemporary era in this special series for children and their families. Elley-Long Music Center, Colchester, WEDNESDAYS, 4 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 15. Info, 800-639-3443. FREE MILTON MUSIC IN THE PARK: Families settle

down with a picnic basket and lawn chairs while listening to live bands. Bombardier Park, Milton, WEDNESDAY, JULY 11, 7 P.M., TUESDAY, JULY 24, 7 P.M. AND TUESDAY, JULY 31, 7 P.M. Info,

893-4111. FREE

SHELBURNE TOWN CONCERT SERIES:

LANG FARM FAMILY CONCERT SERIES: Rain or shine, families spread out picnic blankets for summer’s evening festivities including live music, local vendors and fresh food, a children’s activity tent by Wildflowers Studio, and a cash bar. The Barns at Lang Farm, Essex Junction, THURSDAYS, 5:30-8 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 9. Info, 662-2101. FREE ‘TWELFTH NIGHT’: 8 multitalented actors

enchant the audience with the Bard’s greatest comedy in this play of mistaken identity, disguises, high jinks, shipwrecks, music and love. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Lost Nation Theater, Montpelier City Hall Auditorium, THURSDAYS-SATURDAYS,

7:30 P.M. AND SUNDAYS, 2 P.M., THROUGH JULY 29, $10-30. Info, 229-0492. Farm to Ballet

COURTESY FARM TO BALLET PROJECT

CALENDAR

Festive folks relax on summer evenings with live music, a picnic from home, or fresh food prepared from farm fare. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Shelburne Farms, WEDNESDAYS, 6:30-8 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 1, donations accepted for Town of Shelburne Recreation Department. Info, 985-9551.

CIRCUS SMIRKUS BIG TOP TOUR IN MANCHESTER: High-flying feats into the wild

THURSDAY, JULY 12, 1 & 6 P.M. AND FRIDAY, JULY 13, 1 & 6 P.M., $18-25, free for children under

2. Info, 877-764-7587.

CRAFTSBURY CHAMBER PLAYERS MINICONCERT IN HARDWICK: Small music lovers

experience an excerpt of the group’s evening concert, with selections and commentary geared toward young audiences, followed by ice cream. Hardwick Town House, THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2 P.M. AND THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2 P.M.

Info, 800-639-3443. FREE

‘XANADU’: Local middle schoolers entertain the audience with a glittery musical about love, laughter and the world’s first roller disco. Vermont Children’s Theater, Lyndonville, THURSDAY, JULY 12, 7 P.M., FRIDAY, JULY 13, 7 P.M., SATURDAY, JULY 14, 7 P.M. AND SUNDAY, JULY 15, 2 P.M. Info,

626-5358.

BROWN BAG CONCERT SERIES: Community

members spread out their picnic dinners and blankets while listening to regional musicians. Food and wine available for sale. Woodstock History Center, FRIDAYS, 5:30 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 31., donations accepted for the Woodstock Community Food Shelf. Info, 457-3981. FARM TO BALLET IN SHELBURNE: Art and

agriculture come together in this dance performance celebrating Vermont’s farming culture. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for picnicking or dinner fare from local farms. Bring a blanket or chairs. Shelburne Farms, SATURDAY, JULY 14, 6:30 P.M., $20, free for children under 13 if pre-purchased; day of event, $10-25. Info, 985-8686. FARM TO BALLET IN WASHINGTON: Art and

agriculture come together in this dance performance celebrating Vermont’s farming culture. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. for picnicking or dinner fare from local farms and self-guided farm tours. Bring a blanket or chairs. Grand View Farm, Washington, SUNDAY, JULY 15, 6 P.M., $20, free for children under 13 if pre-purchased; $10-25 day of event. Info, 685-4693.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org. Rutland Farmers Market: See July 4, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

ORLEANS Greensboro Fourth of July: “The Funky Fourth of July” features a fun-filled parade at 11 a.m., festivities in town and fireworks at dusk. Various locations, Greensboro. Info, 533-2911. FREE OWL’S HEAD MUSIC NIGHT: Weather

permitting, berry pickers groove to local bands while gathering nature’s little treasures and enjoy a picnic dinner from home. Fields open at 5 p.m.; music begins at 6 p.m. Space is limited. Owl’s Head Blueberry Farm, Richmond, TUESDAYS, THROUGH AUG. 21, two-quart minimum blueberry purchase for entry. Info, 434-3387. CIRCUS SMIRKUS BIG TOP TOUR IN ST. JOHNSBURY: High-flying feats into the

wild blue yonder abound as Smirkus Troupers ages 10 to 18 dazzle crowds with jugglers, high-larious clowns and airborne aerialists, with a theme of “Vaudeville!” – a celebration of the grand American tradition of variety entertainment. Green Mountain Mall, St Johnsbury, WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 1 & 6 P.M. AND THURSDAY, JULY 19, 1 & 6 P.M., $16-22, free for children under 2. Info, 877-764-7587. FARM TO BALLET IN SHAFTSBURY: Art and agriculture come together in this dance performance celebrating Vermont’s farming culture. Doors open at 4 p.m. for picnicking or dinner fare from local farms and self-guided farm tours. Bring a blanket or chairs. Studio Hill, Shaftsbury, SATURDAY, JULY 21, 5 P.M., $20, free for children under 13 if pre-purchased; $10-25 day of event.

‘MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM’:

7:30 P.M. AND WEDNESDAY, JULY 25, 7:30 P.M., $10-15. Info, 229-0492. STOWE GAZEBO CONCERT: Musicians

CHITTENDEN Charlotte Library Book Sale: Bibliophiles browse bargain-rate books, while enjoying festive refreshments from area food trucks. Charlotte Public Library, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, 425-3864. 8 SUNDAY, P.42 SUMMER CONCERT ON THE GREEN: The

Jeff Salisbury Band serenades picnickers under the open summer sky. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, TUESDAY, JULY 24, 6:30-8:30 P.M. Info, 878-4918. FREE YOUNG TRADITION VERMONT SHOWCASE:

Summer participants in Camp Trad, which focuses on learning and performing traditional music and dance, entertain the audience with a repertoire featuring their instructors. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Shelburne Farms, TUESDAY, JULY 24, 6-7 P.M. Info, 985-8686. FREE

Sunday, July 15 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Circus Palooza

Goes West shelburnemuseum.org

‘JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH’: Based

on Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book, the Summer Musical Theater Intensive students, ages 10-18, mesmerize the audience with a performance of a magically overgrown insect family and a little boy aboard a peach sailing across the Atlantic Ocean to New York City. Preview July 25 and 26. Northern Stage, White River Junction, Wednesday, JULY

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25-FRIDAY, JULY 27, 7:30 P.M., SATURDAY, JULY 28, 2 & 7:30 P.M. AND SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2 P.M., $19-25. Info, 296-7000. CRAFTSBURY CHAMBER PLAYERS MINICONCERT IN EAST CRAFTSBURY: Small

6/20/18 4:17 PM

Timber Lane Pediatrics

music lovers experience an excerpt of the group’s evening concert, with selections and commentary geared toward young audiences, followed by ice cream. East Craftsbury Presbyterian Church, THURSDAY, JULY 26, 2 P.M. Info, 800-6393443. FREE ‘IN THE HEIGHTS’: Teens take to the stage and entertain the audience with a fast-moving, dance-packed performance about three days in the New York City Latino neighbourhood of Washington Heights. Vermont Children’s Theater, Lyndonville, THURSDAY, JULY 26, 7 P.M., FRIDAY, JULY 27, 7 P.M., SATURDAY, JULY 28, 7 P.M. AND SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2 P.M. Info,

626-5358.

‘MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM’:

Brattleboro’s Vermont Suitcase Company gets the audience laughing during its inaugural summer tour of this Vermont-themed adaptation of a Shakespearean comedy, directed by Peter Gould. WonderArts Community Greenspace, Craftsbury, THURSDAY, JULY 26, 6:30-8:30 P.M., suggested donation $10-15. Info, 533-9370.

We’ve been providing pediatric care in the Burlington area for over 40 years. Our physicians and staff continue to dedicate themselves to the health and care of infants, children and adolescents from birth through age 22. Our goal is to provide you with the best medical care for your family. We are accepting new patients at our 3 locations.

51 Timber Lane, South Burlington, VT 05403 To make an appointment, please call 802-864-0521

1127 North Ave., Burlington, VT 05408 To make an appointment, please call 802-846-8100

11 Haydenberry Drive, Suite 103, Milton, VT 05468 To make an appointment, please call 802-893-1200

Checkout our website – www.timberlanepeds.com k4t-TimberLanePed0516.indd 1

4/26/16 1:22 PM

KIDS VT

make a merry outdoor evening. Check website for specific performers. Stowe Free Library, TUESDAYS, 6-7 P.M., THROUGH AUG. 14, donations accepted. Info, 253-5555. FREE

8 Sunday

JULY 2018

Brattleboro’s Vermont Suitcase Company gets an audience in Montpelier laughing during its inaugural summer tour of this Vermont-themed adaptation of a Shakespearean comedy, directed by Peter Gould. Lost Nation Theater, Montpelier City Hall Auditorium, TUESDAY, JULY 24,

Inspired by the special exhibition Playing Cowboy, this year’s Circuspalooza has a Wild West twist! Saddle up for a circus show extravaganza, rodeo carnival games, square dancing, live western music from the Starline Rhythm Boys, delicious BBQ, and more!

WASHINGTON Capital City Farmers Market: Veggies, honey, maple syrup and more change hands at a celebration of farm-grown food and handmade crafts. Downtown Montpelier, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Info, 223-2958.

KIDSVT.COM

FARM TO BALLET IN NEW HAVEN: Art and agriculture come together in this dance performance celebrating Vermont’s farming culture. Doors open at 5 p.m. for a tour of the vegetable, flower and berry fields. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Golden Well Farm & Apiaries, New Haven, SUNDAY, JULY 22, 6 P.M., $20, free for children under 13 if pre-purchased; $10-25 day of event.

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SUBMIT YOUR AUGUST EVENTS FOR PRINT BY JULY 15 AT KIDSVT.COM OR CALENDAR@KIDSVT.COM

CALENDAR

JULY

8 Sunday (cont.) Cool Science! Slime: Curious kids investigate the science of the slick stuff and make some of their own. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-4 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE

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., $8-14. Info, 655-3300. Family Gym: See July 6. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

New Parents For New ParentsFor New

BOSOM BUDDIES TOO: Nursing mamas of

toddlers and mobile wee ones socialize and swap supportive stories and advice with peers and professionals. Babies welcome. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin,

FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 5:30-7 P.M.

Info, 371-4415. FREE

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, MONDAYS, 12:15-1:15 P.M., TUESDAYS, 4:30-5:30 P.M., WEDNESDAYS, 12:15-1:15 P.M., THURSDAYS, 4:30-5:30 P.M., AND SATURDAYS, 10:30-11:30 A.M., $15. Info, 829-0211. PRENATAL YOGA: Moms-to-be stretch and bend. Embodied, Montpelier, TUESDAYS, 6-7:15 P.M., $16 per drop-in class. Info, 778-0300. ESSEX LA LECHE LEAGUE: Moms bring their

bitty ones to a discussion of parenting and breastfeeding. Siblings welcome. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, FIRST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 6:30-8 P.M. Info, 879-0313.

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

FREE

EVOLUTION POSTNATAL YOGA: New mamas tote their pre-crawling kids to an all-levels flowing yoga class focused on bringing the body back to strength and alignment in a relaxed and nurturing environment. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, SUNDAYS, 12:15-1:30 P.M., TUESDAYS, 11 A.M.-12:15 P.M., THURSDAYS,

10:45-11:55 A.M., AND FRIDAYS, 8:15-9:15 A.M. AND NOON-1 P.M., $15 or $130 for a 10-class

pass. Info, 899-0339.

EVOLUTION PRENATAL YOGA: Mothers-to-be

build strength, stamina and a stronger connection to their baby. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington,

SUNDAYS, 10-11:30 A.M., MONDAYS, 5:45-7 P.M., TUESDAYS, 4:15-5:30 P.M., WEDNESDAYS, 5:45-7 P.M., THURSDAYS, 12:30-1:30 P.M., FRIDAYS, 8:15-9:15 A.M. AND SATURDAYS, 11:30 A.M.-12:30 P.M., $15 or $130 for a 10-class

pass. Info, 899-0339.

HOW TO BREASTFEED PRENATAL CLASS:

Expectant mamas and their partners learn the basics of breastfeeding, how to get off to the best start with their baby and where to find assistance when needed. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin, FIRST

THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8-9:30 A.M. AND FOURTH TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 4:30-6 P.M., preregister. Info, 371-4415. FREE

LAMOILLE Stowe Farmers Market: Live music and agricultural and craft vendors make for a bustling atmosphere. Stowe Farmers Market, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, 279-3444. RUTLAND Battle of Hubbardton Revolutionary War Encampment Weekend: See July 7.

HYDE PARK BABY CHAT: Parents with babies

mingle, learn more about developmental needs and expectations, and have the opportunity to ask questions of a maternal health specialist. Lanpher Memorial Library, Hyde Park, FIRST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10-11:30 A.M. Info, 888-5229.

MORRISVILLE BABY CHAT: Parents with babies socialize, learn more about developmental needs and expectations, and have the opportunity to ask questions of a maternal health specialist. Lamoille Family Center, Morrisville, SECOND SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10-11:30 A.M. Info, 888-5229.

NEW PARENTS PLAYGROUP: Families with

TODDLER LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING: Moms

very small ones support each other, with assistance from staff. Birth Journeys, Burlington, FIRST AND THIRD FRIDAYS OF EVERY MONTH, 10-11:30 A.M., suggested donation $3. Info, 233-7909.

NEW MOMS SUPPORT & PLAY GROUP: New

moms and moms-to-be get professional and peer support as they adjust to the ‘new normal’ of motherhood. Babies welcome. Rachel Totten, Williston, MONDAYS, 11 A.M.12:30 P.M., preregister. Info, 448-0075. FREE BURLINGTON LA LECHE LEAGUE:

who are nursing beyond a year share stories and solutions to nighttime parenting, mealtime tips, biting, weaning and other topics. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Middlebury, THIRD MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 1:30-2:30 P.M. Info, 388-0363. FREE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ: Mamas nurse their

babies, chat and ask for answers from a certified lactation consultant. Pregnant women, supportive dads and older siblings welcome. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, THIRD TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 11:30 A.M.-1 P.M. Info, 349-3825. FREE

New moms bring their babies and questions to a breastfeeding support group. Older children welcome. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, SECOND TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10:15 A.M. Info, 985-8228. FREE LA LECHE LEAGUE OF THE NORTHEAST KINGDOM: Expectant, novice and experi-

enced moms join nursing experts for advice and support. Enter through the children’s section of the library. Siblings welcome. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, SECOND TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10:30 A.M.-NOON. Info, 720-272-8841. FREE

MOM AND BABY YOGA: Brand-new mamas

and their littles relax, stretch and bond. Followed by a free mothers’ gathering at 11:30 a.m. Embodied, Montpelier, TUESDAYS, 10:30-11:30 A.M., $11. Info, 223-5302.

BURLINGTON EARLY MONTHS INFANT MASSAGE: This mother-infant group

includes baby massage and postpartum new mama support. The Janet S. Munt Family Room, Burlington, WEDNESDAYS, 11 A.M.-NOON. Info, 862-2121. FREE

BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP: Nursing

mamas (and soon-to-be mothers!) make the most of La Leche League support while socializing with other moms and wee ones. Norman Williams Public Library, Woodstock, FRIDAY, JULY 13, 10:30 A.M.-NOON. Info, 281-731-7313. FREE

MAMA’S CIRCLE BARRE: This supportive

gathering brings moms of new babies and toddlers together to foster friendship through unique-but-shared experiences. Yoga Barre, SECOND FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9:30-11:30 A.M. Info, 595-7953. FREE

BREASTFEEDING FAMILIES GROUP: Nursing moms

(and supportive dads, too!) gather for snacks and advice. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, THIRD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 11 A.M.-1 P.M. Info,

888-3470. FREE

LA LECHE LEAGUE OF CENTRAL VERMONT: Breastfeeding mamas

swap stories and support each other, with a professional available for consultation. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, THIRD

THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9:30-11:30 A.M.

Info, 595-7953. FREE

NURSING BEYOND A YEAR: In a supportive

setting, mothers discuss the joys and challenges of breastfeeding children approaching one-year-old and beyond. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, THIRD FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9:30-11:30 A.M. Info, 595-7953. FREE

JOHNSON BABY CHAT: Parents with babies mingle, learn more about developmental needs and expectations, and have the opportunity to ask questions of a maternal health specialist. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, FOURTH TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10-11:30 A.M. Info, 888-5229. FREE MOMMY GROUP: Breastfeeding peer

counselor Angela Scavo hosts mamas and answers questions in a relaxed setting. Middlebury Recreation Center, FOURTH

WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9:30-10:30 A.M. Info, 349-9084. FREE

PRENATAL & INFANT CHIROPRACTIC: Parents

and parents-to-be learn about the benefits of chiropractic care for babies and expectant mamas. Led by author Dr. Matt Rushford. For adults. Online, Burlington, THURSDAY, JULY 26, 8-9 P.M., $20, free for members of Birth Love Family. Info, 373-8060.

ORLEANS Greenspace Community Work Day: Folks drop in and roll up their sleeves to get an edible forest started, a pizza oven built and trails cleared. WonderArts Community Greenspace, Craftsbury, 1-3 p.m. Info, 533-9370. FREE WASHINGTON Music, Yoga & Meditation: Health-minded community members come together for relaxation through breathing exercises, yoga asanas and mindfulness practices. Ages 7 and up. Old Schoolhouse Common Gazebo, Marshfield, 2-3:15 p.m., sliding scale $5-15; no one turned away. Info, 426-3581.

9 Monday CHITTENDEN Colchester Preschool Music: Bitty ones dance and sing to a brisk beat. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11:30 a.m. Info, 264-5660. FREE Dinoman!: Junior paleontologists soak up info about creatures from our planet’s distant history and discover touchable artifacts, including dinosaur bones and meteorites. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE Gardening at the Library: Junior green thumbs dig in the dirt and sample their harvest. Grades 1-5. Milton Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE Kids KPop Party: Fans of Korean pop stars explore this world through singing and dancing stations — and more. Ages 5 and up. Teen party follows at 5 pm. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-5 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE

Queer Care Support: Adult family members and caregivers of queer and/or questioning youth swap stories and resources in a supportive space. Adults only. Outright Vermont, Burlington, 6:30-8 p.m. Info, 865-9677. FREE Stories That Rock: Little listeners learn and laugh. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Summer Chess Club: Players of all ages pursue a game of strategy. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4-5 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Teen Night: Adolescents drop in to do a different activity each week, while socializing and snacking. Milton Public Library, 6-8 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE Webby’s Art Studio: Riding West: Inspired by the Museum’s temporary exhibit, “Playing Cowboy: America’s Wild West Shows,” amateur artists have fun fashioning a handmade horse. Daily through July 14. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., regular museum admission, $8-25; free for members and children under 5. Info, 985-3346. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3. Williston Preschool Music: See July 5, 11 a.m.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: Green thumbs enjoy earthy and educational activities. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., preregister for a day, a week or the whole season. Info, 868-3970. FREE STEM Family Nights: Moms, dads and kiddos test their science, technology, engineering and math skills with cool and collaborative projects. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 6-7:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 868-3970. FREE

SUBMIT YOUR AUGUST EVENTS FOR PRINT BY JULY 15 AT KIDSVT.COM OR CALENDAR@KIDSVT.COM RUTLAND Babies & Toddlers Rock: Mini-musicians ages 2 and under sing songs and engage in early literacy activities. Rutland Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Info, 773-1860. FREE WASHINGTON Judi Byron and her Little/Big Harp: This musician leads a morning of singing with a hands-on chance to check out her unusual instrument. Waterbury Public Library, 10:15 a.m. Info, 244-7036. FREE WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: Amateur artists engage in multiple mediums and enjoy each other’s company. Ages 5-12. ArtisTree/Purple Crayon, South Pomfret, 1-4 p.m., $20; preregister. Info, 457-3500. Young Adult Book Club: Teens make merry conversation around a brand-new young adult novel. Check the website for the title. Grades 7-12. Phoenix Books Misty Valley, Chester, 4 p.m. Info, 875-3400. FREE

10 Tuesday CHITTENDEN Book Launch Party for ‘Alpaca Lunch’: Local authors and artists Jennifer and John Churchman celebrate the release of their newest Sweet Pea & Friends book. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 6-7 p.m. Info, 872-7111. FREE

Build It!: Creative constructionists of all ages get busy with materials like Keva Planks and Legos to build coordinated projects. Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Info, 893-4644. FREE Dorothy’s List Book Club: Middle readers make merry conversation around a DCF pick. Call the library for the title. Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4 p.m. Info, 264-5660. FREE Energy Rocks!: Michael Caduto — environmentalist, master storyteller and author — leads a program about renewable energy explored through science and the arts. Ages 5-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Kids Breakout: Rhythm Rocks!: Escape artists listen to music to figure out how to slip free from a room. Sessions at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. for ages 5 and up; 4 p.m. for teens. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, preregister. Info, 264-5660. Spanish Musical Kids: See July 3.

FREE

Tuesday Night Trail Running Series: See July 3. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3. Winooski Lego Club: See July 3.

FREE

Family Game Day: Grownups and youngsters rally for a weekly round of tabletop fun. Free meals available for ages 18 and under. Winooski Memorial Library, 3-6 p.m. Info, 655-6424. FREE

Young Producers Workshop: Lake Champlain Access TV offers a hands-on introduction to the world of TV. Ages 7-10. Fairfax Community Library, 6-7:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Family Movie Night: A flick on the big screen and savory snacks amuse film lovers of all ages. Milton Public Library, 6-8 p.m. Info, 893-4644.

FREE

Five Corners Farmers Market: Downtown shoppers fill their baskets with locallygrown fresh foods, agricultural products and handmade crafts. Five Corners, Essex Junction, 4-7:30 p.m.

LAMOILLE Stowe Free Library Book Sale: This renowned library fundraiser features 25 categories of books and electronic materials and is restocked daily. Through July 29. Stowe Free Library, Info, 253-6145. RUTLAND The Grand Kitchen: See July 3. ORLEANS Instrument Petting Zoo: Local musician Don Houghton and friends experiment with kiddos to make music with water and glass, xylophones, string, wind, and percussion instruments. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info, 586-9683. FREE WASHINGTON Maker Program: Crafty kiddos dig into different projects using the library’s materials and mentoring. Ages 6-11. Waterbury Public Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 244-7036. FREE WINDSOR Norwich Lego Tuesdays: See July 3. Time Travel Tuesdays: History buffs of all ages learn what daily life was like in 1890 by helping prepare seasonal meals, churn butter and wash laundry the old-fashioned way. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., regular museum admission, $4-16; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355. Tuesday Afternoon Art Studio: Ceramics: Youngsters create with clay and glazes while enjoying each other’s company. Ages 5-12. ArtisTree/Purple Crayon, South Pomfret, 1-4 p.m., $20; preregister. Info, 457-3500. Yoga for Girls: See July 3.

11 Wednesday ADDISON Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 4. CHITTENDEN ‘Hoopoe Show’: This one-man show mixes pantomime comedy, movement illusions, sleight of hand magic tricks and balloon wizardry in this audience-involved vaudeville performance. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Art Play Day: Little ones and caregivers drop in and get messy with provided materials and multiple stations to spark imagination. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Radiate Art Space, Richmond, 8:45-10:15 a.m., $4 per child; $6 max per family.

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

FREE

Global Cooking: Adolescents explore culinary styles from around the world. Ages 12-17. Milton Public Library, 2-3:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE Knitting Club: Yarn lovers of all skill levels learn this needle craft. Ages 7 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 878-6955. FREE

Leddy Park Beach Bites: Families relax during a lakeside afternoon lavish with kids’ activities, food trucks and entertainment. Leddy Park, Burlington, 5:30-8 p.m. Info, 864-0123. FREE ONE Band Concert: Local teens perform music which celebrates immigrant groups through strings, woodwinds, brass and vocals. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Strategy Board Games: Game lovers partake in complicated tabletop pastimes. Ages 13 and up. Milton Public Library, 5-8 p.m. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Wednesday Night Mountain Biking: Pedalers of all ages and abilities wend their way along the trails in a non-intimidating atmosphere. This fun event includes 2.5K or 5K options and a short loop for ages 8 and under, beginning at 6 p.m. Catamount Outdoor Family Center, Williston, $4-12; free for kids under 8. Info, 879-6001. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3. Young Writers & Storytellers: Small ones spin their own yarns. Ages 5-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3-4 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE

FRANKLIN Children’s Literacy Foundation Storytelling: Highgate Library hosts an inspiring and interactive storytelling morning for kids and their parents. Each child may choose two new books. Highgate Elementary School, Highgate Center, 10 a.m., preregister. Info, 868-3970. FREE Community Gardening: See July 9. Fit Moms: Expectant mamas work out together, preparing for labor with cardio, strength, stretching and breathing. Northwestern Medical Center, St. Albans, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Info, 288-1141. FREE

Reading Frederick Douglass in South Hero: This participatory event asks community members to read — or witness — the fiery July 5, 1852 speech in which this great abolitionist orator took exception to commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. South Hero Community Library, 6:30 p.m. Info, 372-6209. FREE Story Time Yoga: Wee ones soak up stories and stretch with Ms. Liza. Ages 6 and under. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m., preregister. Info, 868-3970. FREE

GRAND ISLE Champlain Islands Farmers Market: See July 4. LAMOILLE Everybody Plays a Drum!: A master drummer gets the summer reading program off to smashing start with the audience making music and banging out a beat together. All ages. Varnum Memorial Library, Jeffersonville, 1-1:45 p.m. Info, 644-2117. FREE RUTLAND Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program: Youngsters on summer break gather at the library for weekly events, from art projects to music making. Check the website for details. Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington, 1-2 p.m. & 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info, 422-9765. FREE Rutland Farmers Market: See July 4.

ORANGE Randolph Lego Wednesdays: Aspiring architects construct creatively while chatting. Kimball Public Library, Randolph, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Info, 728-5073. FREE ORLEANS The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Barton: Children ages 18 and under receive nutritious, locally-sourced meals at no cost from this mobile kitchen. Food available for purchase for adults. Barton Public Library, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info, 334-2044. FREE WASHINGTON Dorothy Canfield Fisher Book Club: Bookworms in grades 4-7 gab about Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan. Waterbury Public Library, 5:30-6:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 244-7036. FREE Family Fun Night: See July 6. Marshfield Wednesday Morning Program: Vacationing kids soak up storytime, followed by a 10:30 a.m. activity and free lunch. Ages 7 and under. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10-11:30 a.m. Info, 426-3581. FREE

WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9. Woodstock Market on the Green: See July 4.

KIDS VT

Tinkering Tuesdays: Small scientists experiment with hands-on projects with electrical circuits, gears, pulleys and more. Ages 8 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.noon. Info, 865-7216. FREE

Summer Science & Nature With Kurt Valenta: Children discover and explore the natural world through touchable collections and technology, guided by an experienced educator. Ages 5 and up. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m., preregister. Info, 868-3970. FREE

Chris Yerlig: Mime and Magic: The audience participates in this comedic blend of mime, illusions and balloon tricks. All ages. Milton Public Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Info, 893-4644.

JULY 2018

Story Hour at Adam’s Berry Farm: Little listeners partake in plenty of stories, gardening and summer activities. All ages. Adam’s Organic Berry Farm, Charlotte, 9:30 a.m. Info, 578-9093.

Stunning on Stage: Fashion-conscious kiddos dye, cut, sew, embellish and bedazzle to make a performance-ready outfit worthy of a rock star. All ages. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 3 p.m. Info, 827-3945. FREE

Bookmark Stitch-In: The Embroiderers’ Guild of America threads their needles for arts and crafts. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10 a.m.-noon. Info, 878-6956. FREE

KIDSVT.COM

Fossil Story Time: Educator Kristen Littlefield and eager kids explore the world of fossils through stories and hands-on activities. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9.

CALENDAR

JULY

12 Thursday CALEDONIA Peacham Farmers Market: See July 5. CHITTENDEN Audubon Rocks!: Junior naturalists investigate geology through crafts, interactive activities, experiments and games, and bring home their own pet rock. Ages 6-10. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 1-3 p.m., preregister. Info, 482-2878. FREE

Cardboard-Box Parade: Youngsters wearing their ‘Libraries Rock!’ t-shirt or donning a decorated cardboard box meet at the top of College Street for a mirthful march to City Hall Park. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Coding Club Fun: Tech-savvy youngsters experiment with bots, block-based coding, droids and more. Ages 8-12. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Info, 865-7216. FREE

Colchester Lego Club: See July 5.

Musical Petting Zoo: Inquisitive kids see, hear and touch different instruments. Ages 5-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Ukulele Kids: Musical ones join Joe to sing and play traditional children’s songs. Ages 1-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Williston Preschool Music: See July 5.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. Franklin Lego Thursdays: See July 5.

Ongoing Exhibits BOMBARDIER PARK, MILTON Info, 893-4644 JULY STORY WALK: Nature walkers of all ages enjoy an outdoor stroll while reading the children’s story Good-Night, Owl! by Pat Hutchins. Through July 31. FREE

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

ECHO LEAHY CENTER FOR LAKE CHAMPLAIN, BURLINGTON Info, 864-1848 HOW PEOPLE MAKE THINGS: This temporary exhibit explores the story of how familiar childhood objects are manufactured from raw materials into finished products. Visitors step onto a factory floor for hands-on cutting, molding, deforming and assembling activities, and create objects to take home. Regular museum admission, $11.50-14.50, free for children under 3. Through September 3.

FAIRBANKS MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM, ST. JOHNSBURY Info, 748-2372 BUTTERFLY HOUSE: This living exhibit features fluttering painted ladies, monarchs, red admirals and more, including info about the life stages of these winged beauties and tips for creating a home butterfly garden. $7-9, free for children under 5. Open until the first frost. GALAXY BOOKSHOP, HARDWICK Info, 472-5533 FIND WALDO: Sharp-eyed bookworms check out Hardwick and Greensboro businesses for this beloved children’s book character wearing a red-and-white-striped shirt and black-rimmed specs. Passports to track progress and enter for prizes available at The Galaxy Bookshop. Through July 31. FREE

HELEN DAY ART CENTER, STOWE Info, 253-8358 RECLAMATION: Nationally acclaimed, contemporary figurative female artists display paintings featuring women from their perspective, transforming the way women are currently portrayed. Through August 25. FREE

‘EXPOSED’: National and local artists’

outdoor sculptures of all sizes and shapes spread through the town of Stowe. Through October 20. FREE

LAMOILLE FAMILY CENTER, MORRISVILLE Info, 888-5229 MORRISVILLE STORY WALK: Nature-loving families enjoy a stroll and a sweet story about a little mouse who strives to save his strawberry from a hungry bear. Through August 31. FREE MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, NORWICH Info, 649-2200 AIR WORKS: Through hands-on engineering exhibits and activities, curious investigators of all ages examine the scientific properties of air, learn how to move this invisible element, and utilize it in fun and practical ways. Regular museum admission, $14-17, free for children under 2. Through September 3. O’BRIEN COMMUNITY CENTER, WINOOSKI Info, 655-6410 A NEW AMERICAN FAMILY: Photographer Michelle Saffran pairs up with writer David French in this exhibit of photographs of Winooksi’s Bhattarai family, a summary of their journey from Bhutan to Nepal, and quotes from family members remembering where they came from and describing their life today. The O’Brien Community Center is open until 7 p.m. on Fridays. Through July 31. FREE PHOENIX BOOKS Info, 872-7111 FIND WALDO: Where’s Waldo? Sharp-eyed readers search out this famous children’s book character in a striped shirt and blackrimmed spectacles who visits over two dozen local businesses in July. Spot him and get entered in a grand prize drawing. Through July 31. FREE SHELBURNE MUSEUM Info, 985-3346, ext. 3395 PLAYING COWBOY: The formative ways turn-of-the-century performing and visual arts mythologized cowboys and villainized Indians is investigated through popular forms of mass media and entertainment, including dime novels, live stage performances, traveling exhibitions, illustrations, paintings and sculpture. Regular museum admission $8-25, free for members and children under 5. Through October 21.

Maker Space: Imaginative kids drop-in during this engineering time, build with toys and recycled materials, create circuits with batteries, lights and motors and check out DIY musical instrument projects. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Info, 827-3945. Rocking It with Panpipes: Mini music lovers make a 3-tone panpipe with Kurt Valenta from Exordium. Haston Library, Franklin, 10 a.m. Info, 285-6505. FREE St. Albans Library Legos: Eager architects engage in construction projects with their peers. St. Albans Free Library, 1-5 p.m. Info, 524-1507.

Live-Action Role Play: LARPers create characters and plots in an amazing and imaginary adventure. Middle and high school students. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-5 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Music with Raph: Melody lovers of all ages play and sing. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:30-10 a.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

ESSEX The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Island Pond: See July 6. ORLEANS Craftsbury Lego Club: See July 6. WINDSOR Foodways Fridays: See July 6. NEW HAMPSHIRE Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour 2018: All aboard! Choo-choo lovers ride the rails with Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway, and enjoy a day of Thomas-themed activities including crafts, photo ops and more. Conway Scenic Railroad, North Conway, N.H., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., $18-22; preregister. Info, 603-356-5251.

FREE

Teddy Bear Sock Hop: Movers and groovers roll up their jeans for a night of 50’s music, games, snacks and a craft. Stuffed animals are welcome to join the fun. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Info, 524-1507. Weekly Trail Runs: See July 5.

ORLEANS The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Newport: See July 5. WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9.

13 Friday CALEDONIA Hardwick Farmers Market: See July 6. Magic Show: Magician Ed Popielarczyk gets the crowd clapping with tricks, stories and a flea circus. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 10 a.m. Info, 472-5948. FREE

CHITTENDEN Champlain College Summer Open House: Prospective students check out the college’s unique Upside-Down Curriculum and Career Collaborative. Ages 15 and up. Champlain College, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., preregister. Info, 625-0201. FREE 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. Info, 878-6956. FREE Evolution Yoga at Adam’s Berry Farm: See July 6. Family Gym: See July 6. Family Jam: See July 6. Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See July 6. Kids’ Night Out: While parents take well-earned time off, kids delight in dinner and fun. Ages 3-12. Greater Burlington YMCA, 6-8:30 p.m., $10-19; preregister. Info, 862-9622.

14 Saturday ADDISON Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 4. CALEDONIA Caledonia Farmers Market: See July 7. Family Art-Making: At the farmers market, children and caregivers check out creative activities led by local artists, with projects including collage and painting. Geared towards ages 6 and under, but all are welcome. St. Johnsbury Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Info, 748-2600, ext. 108. FREE

CHITTENDEN Burlington Farmers Market: See July 7. Shelburne Farmers Market: See July 7.

FRANKLIN Baby Storytime: New babies are welcomed to the library with nursery rhymes, songs and simple stories. Ages 2 and under with caregivers. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 524-1507. FREE Exordium Presents: Reed Pipes with Mr. K: This science teacher shows kids how to make an instrument from wild reeds. All ages. Fairfax Community Library, 10-11 a.m., preregister. Info, 849-2420. FREE

GRAND ISLE Champlain Islands Farmers Market: See July 7. RUTLAND Rutland Farmers Market: See July 4, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. WASHINGTON Capital City Farmers Market: See July 7. Kids Trade & Play: Families exchange clean and gently-used clothing and toys, size newborn to 12. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 9:30-11:30 a.m., $3 per family. Info, 831-337-8632.

NEW HAMPSHIRE Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour 2018: See July 13.

SUBMIT YOUR AUGUST EVENTS FOR PRINT BY JULY 15 AT KIDSVT.COM OR CALENDAR@KIDSVT.COM

15 Sunday

WINDSOR National Ice Cream Day: Got a sweet tooth? Visitors learn the story and science of “the great American dessert” by hand-cranking their own frozen treats in four flavors. Horse-drawn wagon rides and a game of historic baseball are the cherry on top. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., regular Check out our museum admission, $4-16; free for bountiful children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

ADDISON Cystic Fibrosis Champs Challenge: Active types choose from a scenic 8- or 40-mile bike ride through Addison County or a 5K walk/ run on Basin Harbor Club property, followed list at by a lakeside luncheon kidsvt.com/ NEW HAMPSHIRE and raffle. Basin Harbor playgroups Day Out with Thomas: Big Club, Vergennes, 9 Adventures Tour 2018: See July 13. a.m.-2 p.m., funds raised support grants to help people with cystic fibrosis improve their health through physical activity; preregister. Info, 310-5983. CHITTENDEN CHITTENDEN Colchester Preschool Music: See July 9. Essex Open Gym: See July 8. DJ Yoga: DJ Love Doctor Catherine Hamilton Family Gym: See July 6. and Yoga Instructor Rowan Beck lead this musical movement class. Ages 12 and up. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3, 10 a.m.-1 Beginners welcome. Dorothy Alling Memorial p.m. Library, Williston, 5-6 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE LAMOILLE Gardening at the Library: See July 9. Stowe Farmers Market: See July 8. Read to Cleo The Therapy Dog: Canine and reading enthusiasts visit with a personable WASHINGTON pooch. Ages 2-12. Milton Public Library, 10-11 Music, Yoga & Meditation: See July 8. a.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Looking for a playgroup?

16 Monday

Teen Night: See July 9. Webby’s Art Studio: Pattern and Print: Inspired by the mixed media work of Crystal Cawley in the Museum’s Hat and Fragrance Textile Gallery, avid artists create a unique block-printed tote. Daily through July 22. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., regular museum admission, $8-25; free for members and children under 5. Info, 985-3346. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3. Williston Preschool Music: See July 5, 11 a.m.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. Nature Walk: Kurt Valenta of Exordium leads naturalists of all ages on an enjoyable and educational stroll. Haston Library, Franklin, 10:30 a.m. Info, 285-6505. FREE STEM Family Nights: See July 9.

RUTLAND Babies & Toddlers Rock: See July 9.

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

17 Tuesday CHITTENDEN Making Musical Instruments: Imaginative youngsters get inventive with instrument creation. Ages 4-6. Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE Read to Willy Wonka the Therapy Dog: A certified reading pooch listens patiently to emerging readers. Ages 3-8. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4:15 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Spanish Musical Kids: See July 3.

WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9.

STEAM Series: See July 3. Story Hour at Adam’s Berry Farm: See July 10. Tinkering Tuesdays: See July 10. Tuesday Night Trail Running Series: See July 3. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3. Winooski Lego Club: See July 3.

Stories That Rock: See July 9. Summer Chess Club: See July 9.

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JULY

17 Tuesday (cont.) FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. Paint That Tune: Amateur artists listen to a mix of classical and contemporary music and make masterpieces. All ages. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 3 p.m. Info, 827-3945. FREE Young Producers Workshop: See July 10.

RUTLAND The Grand Kitchen: See July 3.

Science & Nature

RAPTORS IN RESIDENCE: The mysteries surrounding birds of prey are revealed as visitors come face-to-face with live feathered creatures. Shelburne Farms,

SATURDAYS, TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS, 1-1:30 P.M., regular museum admission,

$5-8, free for children under 3. Info, 985-8686.

BANDING AND BIRDING: Naturalists-intraining drop in to get a lesson in tagging wild, feathered creatures and learn skills including netting and data collection. Weather dependent. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, THURSDAY, JULY 5, 8-11 A.M., FRIDAY, JULY 13, 8-11 A.M. AND FRIDAY, JULY 20, 8-11 A.M., donations accepted. Info,

434-3068.

KID FRIENDLY SCAVENGER HUNT: Families

KIDS VT

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

drop in and check out a water-based activity. A Stowe Land Trust summer naturalist answers questions about neat finds. All ages. Mill Trail Property, Stowe, SATURDAY, JULY 7, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. Info, 253-7221. FREE

SUN-EARTH DAY: Curious scientists of all ages make a sundial or scale model of the solar system, meet a local astronomer, touch a meteorite, and learn about the constellations visible tonight. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, SATURDAY, JULY 7, 11 A.M.-4 P.M., regular museum admission, $14-17, free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. 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, SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, 1:30 P.M., $6 plus regular museum admission, $7-9, free for children under 5. Info, 748-2372. BUTTERFLY & BUG WALK: Folks of all ages explore fields and forest while learning about small flying creatures with Vermont Entomological Society naturalists and entomologists. Binoculars, a magnifying glass, an insect net and a picnic lunch are suggested. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, SUNDAY, JULY 8, 10 A.M.-NOON, donations accepted. Info, 434-2167. FREE

ORLEANS Rock On!: Junior geologists get the low-down on rock collecting. Ages 5-12. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info, 586-9683. FREE WASHINGTON Maker Program: See July 10. WINDSOR Norwich Lego Tuesdays: See July 3.

Tuesday Afternoon Art Studio: Ceramics: See July 10. Yoga for Girls: See July 3.

18 Wednesday ADDISON Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 4.

LOVE OUR TREES: Arborists of all ages tend nursery trees and socialize with Branch Out Burlington. Equipment provided; no experience necessary. UVM Horticulture Farm, South Burlington, TUESDAY, JULY 10, 5:30-7:30 P.M. Info, 656-5440. FREE NESTLINGS FIND NATURE: Preschoolers

discover how feathered friends grow, using imaginative play, books, crafts, nature walks and activities. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, SECOND TUESDAY OF

EVERY MONTH, 10:30-11:30 A.M. AND FOURTH TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10:30-11:30 A.M.,

regular museum admission, $3.50-7, free for children under 3. Info, 434-2167. WAGON RIDE WEDNESDAYS: Horse-drawn

rides deliver delight to the whole family. Admission includes all farm programs and activities. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, WEDNESDAYS, 11 A.M.-3 P.M., regular museum admission, $4-16, free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

MONTHLY WILDLIFE WALK: Otter Creek

Audubon Society and the Middlebury Area Land Trust invite community members to survey birds and other wildlife. Birders of all ages and abilities welcome. Meet at the Otter View Park parking area. Otter View Park, Middlebury, SATURDAY, JULY 14, 7-10 A.M. Info, 388-1007. FREE A WALK IN THE WOODS: WILDLIFE TRACKING:

Expert tracker and longtime UVM instructor, Mike Kessler, leads curious nature lovers on an educational exploration. Ages 6 and up. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, THIRD SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 1-3 P.M., regular museum admission, $3.50-7, free for members and children under 3. Info, 434-2167. STARRY NIGHT: THE MOON: Sky gazers soak

up stories of the Milky Way and constellations while socializing and taking a peek at distant worlds through scopes. Bring a flashlight or headlamp. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, THURSDAY, JULY 19, 7-8:30 P.M., $5, free for members; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

FAMILY FUN DAY ON THE FARM: This familyowned dairy farm opens its doors for folks to meet the animals, pet the goats and chickens, and partake in hands-on, childfriendly, educational farm activities. Boston Post Dairy, Enosburg Falls, SATURDAY, JULY 21, 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Info, 933-2749. FREE SUMMER CAMPFIRE: Families have fun

around flickering flames and meet a special winged guest. Ages 5 and up. Shelburne Farms, THURSDAY, JULY 26, 6:30-8 P.M., $5-6; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

SUNSET ROCK FAMILY ART WALK: In

celebration of Art Week, Stowe Land Trust hosts a mellow hike with a view of the village and an opportunity to make a trail marker. More adventurous hikers continue to the upper overlook. All ages. Sunset Rock, Stowe, THURSDAY, JULY 26, 4-5 P.M.; preregister. Info, 253-7221. FREE

BIRD-MONITORING WALK: Eagle-eyed

participants bring binoculars to search the museum’s property for fluttering feathers. Best for adults and older children. Please bring your own binoculars. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, LAST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 7:30-9 A.M., donations welcome; preregistration encouraged. Info, 434-2167. FREE

BLUEBERRY SUNDAYS: A free hot-from-the-

oven homemade cinnamon bun fortifies berry pickers on this one-acre mountainside patch. Children welcome. Knoll Farm, Fayston, SUNDAYS, 9 A.M.-NOON, cost of berries; brunch available for purchase. Info, 496-5685. CLEAN WATER WEEK CELEBRATION: Nature

lovers of all ages celebrate the importance of clean water by checking out live animal and healthy habitat demonstrations, creating land formations on the Museum’s stream table and more. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, JULY 30-AUG. 3, 10 A.M.-5 P.M., regular museum admission, $11.50-14.50, free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

BATS IN THE BARN: Nocturnal flyers steal

the show with a colorful slideshow and an evening flight from the Farm Barn, orchestrated by Barry Genzlinger — known as Barry the Bat Guy and founder of the Vermont Bat Center. Ages 7 and up with adult. Shelburne Farms, FRIDAY, JULY 20, 7:30-9 P.M., $5-7; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

CHITTENDEN Art Play Day: See July 11.

Family Game Day: See July 11. Five Corners Farmers Market: See July 11. Girls Rock Showcase: These young female musicians get the crowd cheering with lively tunes, and inspire girls while building confidence and empowerment. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Global Cooking: See July 11. Kids’ Tie-Dye: Fashionistas soak plain tees in buckets of color to create spiral and starburst patterns. Ages 5 and up; teens’ session is 4:30 p.m. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2, 3 & 4:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5666. FREE Kindness Rocks Project: Artists paint and share messages of goodwill. Ages 8 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1-2:30 p.m. & 6-7:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 878-4918. FREE Knitting Club: See July 11. Very Merry Theatre: ‘Cinderella’: This local children’s theatre company gets the crowd clapping for the beloved rags-to-riches princess. Recommended for ages 5 and up, but all are welcome. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Wednesday Night Mountain Biking: See July 11. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. Fit Moms: See July 11. Make a Mic: Mini music-lovers fashion a microphone and sing along to well-known children’s songs. Ages 4 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 11 a.m.-noon, preregister. Info, 849-2420. FREE Story Time Yoga: See July 11.

GRAND ISLE Champlain Islands Farmers Market: See July 4. RUTLAND Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program: See July 11. Rutland Farmers Market: See July 4.

WATERY WORLD: Little ones splash in the

river on a hot summer’s day, check out what lurks beneath the rocks and sand, and search for small critters. Ages 3-5 with adult. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, THURSDAY, JULY 19, 9:30-11 A.M., $8; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

CALEDONIA Vermont’s Most Musical Insects: Lamoille County Nature Center shares fun facts and a craft with kids about the soundtrack of summer — crickets, cicadas and katydids. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 10 a.m. Info, 472-5948. FREE

Chess Club: Smart players check out this strategy game and improve their skills with rooks, pawns and knights. All ages and experience levels. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 5:30-7 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE

Time Travel Tuesdays: See July 10.

Bats in the Barn

COURTESY OF SHELBURNE FARMS

CALENDAR

ORANGE Randolph Lego Wednesdays: See July 11. ORLEANS The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Barton: See July 11. WASHINGTON Just for Fun Film Series: Family flicks entertain viewers of all ages. Visit jaquithpubliclibrary.org for movie titles. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:30 p.m. Info, 426-3581. FREE

SUBMIT YOUR AUGUST EVENTS FOR PRINT BY JULY 15 AT KIDSVT.COM OR CALENDAR@KIDSVT.COM Marshfield Wednesday Morning Program: See July 11.

WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9. Everybody Plays a Drum!: A master drummer gets the summer reading program off to a smashing start with the audience making music and banging out a beat together. All ages. Norman Williams Public Library, Woodstock, 2-3 p.m. Info, 457-2295. FREE Woodstock Market on the Green: See July 4.

19 Thursday CALEDONIA Peacham Farmers Market: See July 5. ShoeFly Trail Run Series: Fleet-footed families enjoy fitness together in a 5K, 10K or 1M walk/run. Entry includes admission to select Thursday races on the Kingdom Trails and on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the PRKR Trails in Littleton, NH. Kingdom Trails Yurt, E. Burke, 5:30 p.m., $65 for the season; free for children ages 10 and under; preregister. Info, 626-0737.

CHITTENDEN Burlington Mother Up! Monthly Meet-Up: Families discuss the realities of climate change, what that means on a local level and how to transition to a safer and healthier world. Vegetarian meal and childcare for ages 3 and under provided. Unitarian Universalist Society, Burlington, 5:30-7:30 p.m., RSVP requested. Info, 490-6393. FREE Coding Club Fun: See July 12. Colchester Lego Club: See July 5. Dorothy Canfield Fisher Book Discussion: Little literati chat about DCF pick Refugee by Alan Gratz while licking ice cream. Grades 4-8. Milton Public Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE Family Movie: Kids and caregivers take in a flick on the big screen while savoring snacks. Ages 7 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Karaoke Party: Musical kids make merry with the library’s new machine. Grades 5 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE LCATV Young Producers Video Day Camp: Aspiring Spielbergs experiment using film equipment, then create a feature program with Lake Champlain Access Television. Ages 8-9. Milton Public Library, 1-3 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Musical Exploration: Woodbury Strings Fiddle and Banjo Club entertains the crowd with a concert, followed by an opportunity to try different instruments. Ages 5-10. CarpenterCarse Library, Hinesburg, 1-3 p.m., preregister. Info, 482-2878. FREE Summer Encore Theatre: ‘In Search of a Song’: Talented students perform a musical story to support the summer reading program. Ages 5 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 5 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Williston Preschool Music: See July 5.

FRANKLIN ‘That’s What I Call Sweet Music’: Modern Times Theatre gets the crowd cheering with a puppet show and mini-concert. Franklin Town Hall, 10 a.m. Info, 285-6505. FREE Community Gardening: See July 9. Franklin Lego Thursdays: See July 5. Maker Space: See July 12. Summer Encore Workshop and Performance: Talented students perform ‘In Search of a Song’ with audience participation. Workshop at 1 p.m.; performance at 2:30 p.m. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m., preregistration required for workshop. Info, 524-1507. FREE Weekly Trail Runs: See July 5.

ORLEANS The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Newport: See July 5.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org. WASHINGTON AB2: Books Come to Life: This Active BodyActive Brain class, led by a literacy professional, combines reading and movement. Babies through preschoolers. Waterbury Public Library, 10:15 a.m. Info, 244-7036. FREE WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9.

20 Friday CALEDONIA Hardwick Farmers Market: See July 6. CHITTENDEN Burger Night: Picnickers bring a blanket or chair to this local feast of grilled from-the-land fare and festive music. Bread and Butter Farm, Shelburne, 4:30-7:30 p.m., $10-25, season’s passes $25-90; preregistration required this year. Info, 985-9200. 20 FRIDAY, P.48

2018 BIG TOP TOUR SCHEDULE VERMONT’S AWARD-WINNING TRAVELING YOUTH CIRCUS

JULY 2 & 3

JULY 27, 28 & 29

JULY 6 & 7

JULY 31 & AUG 1

WAITSFIELD, VT ESSEX JCT., VT

JULY 9 & 10 SARATOGA, NY

NORTHAMPTON, MA

AUGUST 3 & 4 NEWBURY, MA

MANCHESTER, VT

AUG 6 & 7

KEENE, NH

AUGUST 9 & 10

ST. JOHNSBURY, VT

AUG 12 & 13

HANOVER, NH

AUG 15, 16 & 17

MARSHFIELD, MA

AUGUST 19

JULY 15 & 16 JULY 18 & 19 JULY 24 & 25

KENNEBUNKPORT, ME WOLFEBORO, NH MONTPELIER, VT

GREENSBORO, VT

EST. 1987

KIDS VT

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47 6/28/18 10:19 AM

CALENDAR

JULY

20 Friday (cont.) Evolution Yoga at Adam’s Berry Farm: See July 6. Family Gym: See July 6. Family Jam: See July 6. Family Movie Night: Moms, dads and kiddos munch free snacks while viewing a familyfriendly flick on the big screen. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Group Drumming with Saragail Benjamin: This master drummer gets the summer reading program off to smashing start with the audience making music and banging out a beat together. All ages. Winooski Memorial Library, 4 p.m. Info, 655-6424. FREE Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See July 6.

FRANKLIN Lap Story Time: The littlest listeners soak up a sweet story time with board books, songs and finger plays. Fairfax Community Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Info, 849-2420. FREE GRAND ISLE Champlain Islands Farmers Market: See July 7.

Summer Story Time: Little ones dive into picture books, sign language, songs, rhymes, flannel stories and early math activities. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:30-10 a.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

RUTLAND Rutland Farmers Market: See July 4, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

ORLEANS Craftsbury Lego Club: See July 6. WASHINGTON Family Fun Night: See July 6.

JULY 2018 KIDSVT.COM

Shelburne Farmers Market: See July 7.

LAMOILLE ‘Exposed’: Opening Walkabout: This familyfriendly walkabout tours outdoor sculptures with hors d’oeuvres. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 4-8 p.m. Info, 253-8358. FREE

ESSEX The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Island Pond: See July 6.

Montpelier Mother Up! Monthly Meet-Up: Families discuss the realities of climate change, what that means on a local, state and national level and how to create a more just and naturefriendly world. Dinner and nature-themed kids’ programming included. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7:30 p.m., RSVP requested. Info, 229-0041. FREE

WINDSOR Foodways Fridays: See July 6. NEW HAMPSHIRE Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour 2018: See July 13.

21 Saturday ADDISON Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 4. CALEDONIA Caledonia Farmers Market: See July 7.

KIDS VT

Family Movie Night: Moms, dads and kiddos bring blankets and pillows and relax with a family-friendly flick and refreshments. Ages 6 months to 8 years with caregivers. Greater Burlington YMCA, 6-8 p.m., $10 per family; preregister. Info, 862-9622.

Lego Day: Amateur architects snap together buildings of their own design. Children ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Info, 878-4918. FREE

Wildlife Rocks!: The Southern Vermont History Museum educators get families up-close with live animals and explain how these creatures survive in our northern environment. Ages 3 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Family Art Saturday: Families drop in and ignite their imaginations with a current exhibit, then get hands-on with an artistic endeavor. Burlington City Arts, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Info, 865-7166. FREE

WASHINGTON Capital City Farmers Market: See July 7. NEW HAMPSHIRE Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour 2018: See July 13. NEW YORK Battle Reenactment: Defiance and Independence: History buffs view this two-day event through the roar of muskets and cannons, witnessing how American soldiers and artillerymen held the line in the name of liberty, as General Burgoyne tightened the hold on the fort. Fort Ticonderoga, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., $10-24; free for children under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

22 Sunday CHITTENDEN Essex Open Gym: See July 8. Family Gym: See July 6. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

LAMOILLE Stowe Farmers Market: See July 8. WASHINGTON Music, Yoga & Meditation: See July 8. NEW HAMPSHIRE Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour 2018: See July 13. NEW YORK Battle Reenactment: Defiance and Independence: See July 21.

23 Monday CHITTENDEN ‘As You Like It’: Hour Glass Youth Theatre gets the crowd cheering for a live Shakespearean comedy. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE Family Movie Night: See July 20.

Self-Care Storytime: The library partners with the Winooski Family Center in this 5-week self-care series. Little ones savor a storytime with a special guest and snacks, while caregivers enjoy goodies and activities. Ages 6 and under with caregivers. Winooski Memorial Library, 10 a.m.-noon. Info, 655-6424. FREE

Gardening at the Library: See July 9.

STEAM Series: See July 3.

Lego Fun: Budding builders bring out the blocks. Children under age 5 must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-11 a.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Story Hour at Adam’s Berry Farm: See July 10.

Let’s Jam! Learn to Play the Ukulele: Music teacher Karla Kennedy gets the crowd strumming. Ukuleles provided or bring your own. Ages 8 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Info, 878-4918.

Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3.

Colchester Preschool Music: See July 9.

FREE

Rocking It with Panpipes: Mini music lovers make a 3-tone panpipe from Japanese Knotweed, and take home their own decorated and working instrument modeled after a native Inca pipe. Ages 5 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE

Tinkering Tuesdays: See July 10. Tuesday Night Trail Running Series: See July 3. Winooski Lego Club: See July 3.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. Instrument Petting Zoo: Music teacher Cathy Cameron-Muscente demonstrates sound makers and lets curious kids investigate her stash. St. Albans Free Library, 2 p.m. Info, 524-1507. FREE Summer Science & Nature With Kurt Valenta: See July 10.

Stories That Rock: See July 9.

Young Producers Workshop: See July 10.

Summer Chess Club: See July 9.

RUTLAND The Grand Kitchen: See July 3.

Teen Night: See July 9. Webby’s Art Studio: Join the Circus!: Inspired by a visit to the Museum’s Circus Barn, visitors decorate an animal mask of their own. Daily through July 29. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., regular museum admission, $8-25; free for members and children under 5. Info, 985-3346. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3. Williston Preschool Music: See July 5, 11 a.m.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. STEM Family Nights: See July 9.

RUTLAND Babies & Toddlers Rock: See July 9. WASHINGTON Crankie Picture Show: Local artist Meredith Holch amuses an audience of all ages with storytelling, a box with a crank and live music. Waterbury Public Library, 10:15 a.m. Info, 244-7036. FREE WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9.

24 Tuesday CHITTENDEN Classical Music Encounters: Henry and Nathan Wu share their love of classical composition through a piano, violin and cello performance and conversation. Ages 5 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE

Family Art-Making: See July 14.

CHITTENDEN Burlington Farmers Market: See July 7.

Make a Wind Chime: Avid artists create musical crafts. Ages 7-9. Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Looking for a story time? Check out our voluminous list at kidsvt.com/storytime

WASHINGTON Maker Program: See July 10. WINDSOR Norwich Lego Tuesdays: See July 3. Time Travel Tuesdays: See July 10. Tuesday Afternoon Art Studio: Ceramics: See July 10. Yoga for Girls: See July 3.

25 Wednesday ADDISON Everybody Plays a Drum!: This master drummer gets the summer reading program off to smashing start with the audience making music and banging out a beat together. All ages. Lawrence Memorial Library, Bristol, 2:45-3:45 p.m. Info, 453-2366. FREE Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 4.

CALEDONIA Storytime at the Little Free Library: The Jeudevine Library takes bibliophiles on a short walk into the woods for stories and free books. Hazen Trails, Hardwick, 10 a.m. Info, 472-5948. FREE

CHITTENDEN Art Play Day: See July 11. Booktivity: Based on the summer reading theme, imaginative kiddos get crafty each Wednesday with a hands-on project. Ages 5 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3-4 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Classical Music Encounters: Henry and Nathan Wu share their love of classical composition through a piano, violin and cello performance and conversation. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 7-8 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Family Game Day: See July 11. Five Corners Farmers Market: See July 11.

SUBMIT YOUR AUGUST EVENTS FOR PRINT BY JULY 15 AT KIDSVT.COM OR CALENDAR@KIDSVT.COM Global Cooking: See July 11. Knitting Club: See July 11. Lake Monsters Rock!: Mighty baseball heroes share stories, sign autographs and give reading recommendations. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Leddy Park Beach Bites: See July 11. LGBT+ Drop-In Group: LGBT+ teens and allies socialize with peers and propose projects to increase awareness. Grades 8 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Strategy Board Games: See July 11.

FRANKLIN Birds of Prey: Curious naturalists of all ages come face-to-face with the Southern Vermont History Museum’s live hawks, owls and falcons, and explore touchable artifacts and interactive demonstrations. Highgate Sports Arena, Highgate Center, 10 a.m., preregister. Info, 868-3970. FREE Community Gardening: See July 9. Fit Moms: See July 11. Geology Rocks!: Junior geologists make gemstone slime, punk stones and rock-based games. All ages. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 3 p.m. Info, 827-3945. FREE

ORLEANS The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Barton: See July 11. WASHINGTON Family Fun Night: See July 6. Marshfield Wednesday Morning Program: See July 11.

WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9. Woodstock Market on the Green: See July 4.

26 Thursday

Musical Chairs Tournament: Small ones create music makers and get the beat going in a drum circle, exploring rhythm and cooperation. Ages 4 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 11 a.m.noon, preregister. Info, 849-2420. FREE

CALEDONIA Peacham Farmers Market: See July 5.

Wednesday Night Mountain Biking: See July 11.

GRAND ISLE Champlain Islands Farmers Market: See July 4.

CHITTENDEN Coding Club Fun: See July 12.

Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3.

RUTLAND Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program: See July 11.

Trad Camp Showcase: Campers and instructors from this musical summer program get the crowd cheering with song and dance. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE

Young Writers & Storytellers: See July 11, 4-5 p.m.

Rutland Farmers Market: See July 4.

ORANGE Randolph Lego Wednesdays: See July 11.

Colchester Lego Club: See July 5. Community Music Circle: Musician Rob Zollman leads a music making morning with diverse songs from all over the world. Ages 3 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11 a.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Dog Days of Summer: Independent readers relax with the library’s two therapy dogs while practicing their literacy skills. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org. Milton PJ Story Time: Small tots in jammies snuggle in for stories, songs and crafts. Ages 3-7. Milton Public Library, 6:30-7:15 p.m. Info, 893-4644. FREE Super Snacks!: Junior chefs make and taste healthy snacks with the direction of a registered dietician. Recommended for ages 5-11; parent must remain in the store. Hannaford Supermarkets, 78 Marshall Ave., Williston, 10:30-11:30 a.m. & 21 Essex Way, Essex Junction, 1:30-2:30 p.m., preregistration required; space is limited. Info, 238-5414. FREE Tales for a Harmonic World: Storytellers Susanna Olson and Joan Robinson delight listeners with upbeat folk tales from around the world. Ages 5-9. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-2 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Ukulele Kids: See July 12. Williston Preschool Music: See July 5.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. 26 THURSDAY, P.50

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JULY

26 Thursday (cont.) Franklin Lego Thursdays: See July 5. Maker Space: See July 12. Rockin’ Rhythms! with Saragail Benjamin: Master drummer and author Saragail Benjamin brings drums for kids of all ages to bang out a creative story together. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 3 p.m. Info, 827-3945. FREE

WASHINGTON Screech and Hoot: The Science of Bird Communication: The Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences shares an up-close encounter with talkative hawks, falcons and owls. Young naturalists practice identifying raptors by their calls, learn what these hoots might mean and how these sounds are made. All ages. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 244-7036. FREE WINDSOR Foodways Fridays: See July 6.

St. Albans Library Legos: See July 12. Tea Party and Fairy Homes: Little ones in fancy dress sip tea and fashion tiny homes. Haston Library, Franklin, 10 a.m. Info, 285-6505. FREE Weekly Trail Runs: See July 5.

ORLEANS The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Newport: See July 5. WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9.

27 Friday CALEDONIA Hardwick Farmers Market: See July 6. CHITTENDEN Dungeons & Dragons: See July 13. Evolution Yoga at Adam’s Berry Farm: See July 6. Family Gym: See July 6. Family Jam: See July 6. Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See July 6. Live-Action Role Play: See July 13. Meet Vermont Lake Monsters Baseball Players: These team players read stories and autograph baseballs. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE

JULY 2018

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Music with Raph: See July 13. Stuffies Night Out: Furry friends have a sleepover blast with games, dress-up, movies and fabulous teen babysitters. Pick up Saturday morning with report cards and photos. Ages 3 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 5 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Super Snacks!: See July 26, Hannaford Supermarket, 218 Hannafords Dr., South Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

ESSEX The Lunchbox Summer Meal Program in Island Pond: See July 6. LAMOILLE Kids’ Night Out: While their parents appreciate time off, youngsters enjoy dinner, a movie and themed activities. Ages 5-10. David Gale Recreation Center, Stowe, 6-10 p.m., $15 per child; drop-ins welcome. Info, 253-6138.

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ORLEANS Craftsbury Lego Club: See July 6.

28 Saturday ADDISON Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 4. Vermont Breakfast on the Farm: Families fill their bellies with a free pancake breakfast, then take a self-guided farm tour to see first-hand how dairy farmers care for their animals and the environment and contribute to local communities. Kids’ activities include a scavenger hunt, a smoothie-blending bicycle and exploring a Lego farm. Kayhart Brothers Dairy Farm, West Addison, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., preregistration required. Info, 828-2430. FREE

CALEDONIA Caledonia Farmers Market: See July 7. Family Art-Making: See July 14.

CHITTENDEN Burlington Farmers Market: See July 7. Shelburne Farmers Market: See July 7.

FRANKLIN Musical Chairs Tournament: This all-ages tournament features different circles for age groups, awesome prizes and lots of laughs. BFA Fairfax, 10-11 a.m., preregister. Info, 849-2420. FREE

GRAND ISLE Champlain Islands Farmers Market: See July 7. RUTLAND Rutland Farmers Market: See July 4, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. ORLEANS Crankie Picture Shows: Artist and film maker Meredith Holch entertains the audience with handmade movies and live music and song. Ages 3 and up. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 11 a.m.-noon. Info, 586-9683. FREE WASHINGTON Capital City Farmers Market: See July 7. NEW YORK Fife & Drum Corps Muster: Listeners experience the stirring rhythms and tunes of classic marches and camp songs, from the American Revolution to modern commemoration, while also learning about the practical purposes of instruments. Fort Ticonderoga, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., $10-24; free for children under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

29 Sunday CHITTENDEN Essex Open Gym: See July 8. Family Gym: See July 6. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

LAMOILLE Cirque US Workshop: Aspiring circus members take a turn in the ring and learn some new skills with members of the modern circus collective Cirque US. Ages 8 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 11 a.m., $15; $30 for workshop and following performance; preregister. Info, 760-4634. Starstruck: A Cosmic Circus: Creative kids leap into a cosmically creative, engaging theater experience. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 3 p.m., $20; preregister. Info, 760-4634. Stowe Farmers Market: See July 8.

30 Monday CHITTENDEN Colchester Preschool Music: See July 9. Gardening at the Library: See July 9. Kids Karaoke: The whole family has a fling singing and dancing with the library’s new machine. Teens take over at 5 p.m. for an Open Mic session. Ages 5 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-5 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Kindergarten Story Time: Small ones entering school socialize with new buddies and listen to stories. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Summer Chess Club: See July 9. Teen Night: See July 9. Webby’s Art Studio: Fragrant Flowers: Green thumbs put away the gardening tools and grab a paintbrush for watercolor painting in the Gardens of Pleissner Courtyard. Daily through August 5. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., regular museum admission, $8-25; free for members and children under 5. Info, 985-3346. Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3. Williston Preschool Music: See July 5, 11 a.m.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. Nature Walk: See July 16. STEM Family Nights: See July 9.

RUTLAND Babies & Toddlers Rock: See July 9. WINDSOR Afternoon Art: Mixed Media & Crafts: See July 9.

31 Tuesday

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org. Kids Bowl Free Day: Youngsters who mention Kids VT bowl for free, with shoes gratis, too. Ages 15 and under. Spare Time Entertainment, Colchester, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Info, 655-2720. FREE LCATV Young Producers Workshop: Up-andcoming directors learn to use video equipment, put together a program and produce a take-home DVD. Ages 7-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2-3:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE Read to Willy Wonka the Therapy Dog: See July 17. Self-Care Storytime: See July 24. STEAM Series: See July 3. Story Hour at Adam’s Berry Farm: See July 10. Tinkering Tuesdays: See July 10. Tuesday Night Trail Running Series: See July 3. Vermont Suzuki Violins Showcase: These local musicians celebrate their 25th anniversary with a performance of young talent. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE

Wildflowers Open Studio: See July 3. Winooski Lego Club: See July 3.

FRANKLIN Community Gardening: See July 9. RUTLAND The Grand Kitchen: See July 3. ORLEANS Grow Your Own Crystal: Fledgling scientists investigate homemade crystal production with common household items. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info, 586-9683. FREE WASHINGTON Maker Program: See July 10. WINDSOR Norwich Lego Tuesdays: See July 3. Time Travel Tuesdays: See July 10. Tuesday Afternoon Art Studio: Ceramics: See July 10. Yoga for Girls: See July 3.

CHITTENDEN Build It!: See July 10. Burlington Circle of Parents for Adoptive & Guardianship Families: Moms and dads come together to socialize about their parenting experiences and strengthen skills. Childcare and dinner included without fee. Howard Center, Burlington, 5-6:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 864-7467. FREE Find Waldo Grand Celebration: The famous children’s book character in a striped shirt and black-rimmed specs visited 25 area businesses in July, and ends his tour with a party. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 6 p.m. Info, 872-7111. FREE

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For Jeff and me, the decision was made. We explained to the kids why we couldn’t keep Terra. Theo seemed a bit relieved, and Mira was sad but understanding. That afternoon, Theo erased a note that Mira had written on a magnetic whiteboard on our fridge in the days before we got Terra that said, “Get dog.” In its place, he scrawled, “Lose dog.” In the two and a half weeks it took to match Terra with her forever family, my own feelings swung wildly between guilt over giving her up, and relief that the experience was coming to an end. When potential adopters took Terra home to see if she would get along with their cat, then texted us the next morning to tell us they wanted to keep her, I felt simultaneously happy and sad. We dutifully collected the textured balls, chewed-up stuffed animals and training treats we’d accumulated. The next day, we handed them off. We gave Terra a few final hugs, saw the sweet fenced-in backyard she’d get to run around in and left, with an open invitation to visit. In the days afterward, we were overcome with an unexpected burst of energy and motivation. We worked together to declutter and organize the house, which had fallen into disarray during Terra’s stay. I planned a surprise overnight trip to celebrate Jeff ’s birthday, thankful that we didn’t have to worry about what to do with the pup. The weather started getting nicer and we began taking more family walks, which, it turns out, don’t require a dog. Ultimately, Terra gave our family a much-needed reset to our routine. She helped us gain an appreciation for everything that goes into having a four-legged friend. And she taught us that, though we may not be cut out to own a dog, we certainly have the capacity to love one. K

SHY. DIRT. HUGE. GLAD.

Mira and Theo with Terra

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night and early in the morning. She could only be left for a few hours at a time, which meant I had to work primarily from home. I pecked away on my laptop while Terra snoozed next to me. When I got up, she followed. The experience felt all-consuming, and not in a good way. And Terra was still jumpy and mouthy. More than a few times, I caught Theo perched on the back of the couch, genuinely scared, yelling, “No!” as Terra tried to nip him, thinking it was a fun game. Brigitte had told us that foster families typically keep dogs for seven to 10 days, but after a week, there were no prospective adopters in sight. That’s when something shifted. In spite of the time and energy we were investing in Terra — or maybe because of it — we started falling for her. She began sleeping through the night, and we started to see our housebreaking and crate-training efforts pay off. We experienced the deliciousness of stroking her soft, floppy ears. We delighted in the ridiculousness of her scooting around on her belly in the grass. On rides to school, she’d sit between the kids, like a third sibling. When they got out of the car, she looked out the window longingly and cried. Occasionally, we took her on early-morning trail walks. After one of them, Theo was as perky as I’ve ever seen him at 8 a.m. “We should start every day like this!” he enthused. We contemplated keeping her. But I’d observed some eye redness and nose stuffiness in Theo, so before we made any decisions, I scheduled the earliest allergist appointment available, which was two weeks away. Brigitte agreed to hold off on finding an adoptive home for Terra. When the day of the appointment came, the doctor confirmed my suspicion: Theo was allergic to a lot of things, including cats and, to a lesser degree, dogs.

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When it came to test scores at the mountaintop school, the students got —

hrough the years, my kids periodically asked my husband, Jeff, and I for a dog. It seemed like everyone we knew had one. As Mira and Theo got older, the prospect of having a furry companion seemed increasingly appealing. A pup would give 8-year-old Theo something to do when he was bored, we thought. It would teach the kids responsibility. Mira, almost 11, could even walk a dog around our neighborhood by herself. But I worried about dog hair everywhere, loud barking and having another creature to care for. There was also the matter of allergies. I had the sneaking suspicion that Theo might have inherited my cat allergy, and I wondered if he was allergic to dogs, too. I also wondered if I was a “dog person.” I’d seen others delight in the antics of animals, but I’d never felt naturally drawn to them. “Don’t trust someone who doesn’t like dogs,” the saying goes. Maybe that someone was me. There was just one way to find out. I filled out an application with Vermont Dog Rescue, a Hinesburgbased nonprofit that places dogs with both foster and adoptive families. I explained to its founder, Brigitte, that, initially, we were only interested in fostering. Jeff was skeptical. “Once we get the dog,” he said, “it will become part of our family.” Brigitte sent us photos, and we settled on Terra, a 10-week-old German shepherd mix with a long, skinny face and floppy ears. She arrived in early March, a wisp of a creature and as jumpy and nippy as they come. I skirted off to take Theo to a birthday party, leaving Jeff and Mira to figure it out. Jeff texted me an hour later: “She’s such a sweet dog.” “Really?!” I replied, a little worried that he had warmed up to her so quickly. The week that followed reminded me a lot of having a human baby. Terra woke up in the middle of the

THE

HIGH GRADES

How fostering a puppy gave a boost to our family

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Get Dog, Lose Dog

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