Kids VT, November 2016 by Kids VT

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NOVEMBER ˜°˛˝ VOL. ˜° N O. ˛˝

— Ava Anton

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12-year-old Ava Anton of Weston, Massachusetts has climbed some of New England’s toughest mountains. Last summer, Ava tackled Mount Monadnock in Massachusetts (3,166 ft), Cannon Mountain in New Hampshire (4,080 ft), and Mount Mansfield in Vermont with a summit that peaks at 4,393 ft. The most difficult trail at Mount Mansfield is Hell Brook Trail — and it is named for a reason! Ava tells us this was her favorite!

NOVEMBER 2016

The Hell Brook Trail is an unusually difficult route. “It’s not a hike — it’s definitely a climb!” claims Ava. We contacted some of Vermont’s most experienced climbers to find out more about this unusual trail. They tell us you need to use your arms and legs, often using tree branches to stabilize and to pull your

body up to your next foot placement. Each move is strategic and athletic. At the same time, there is a brook streaming down the exact area you are trying to climb, making the terrain wet and slippery. Needless to say, this is not for the casual inexperienced hiker! Many people have attempted Hell Brook Trail and have opted to move over to an easier route. Ava tells us the views are amazing and the experience is uplifting. It took several hours to complete the climb. She was exhausted the next morning and says her legs and arms “felt like spaghetti.” A spa day at Stowe Mountain Resort helped her to rejuvenate before returning home to Massachusetts with her Mom. Ava looks forward to doing the trail again and to climbing more of Vermont’s peaks.

KIDS VT

Congratulations, Ava, on an EXTRAORDINARY accomplishment!

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VOL.23 NO .10

NOVEMBER 2016

Do Good, Feel Good...18

Editor’s Note....................................................................5 See & Say ..........................................................................6 Coloring Contest Winners .................................7 Writing Contest Winners....................................7 Habitat: Preschool Playground .......................42 Birthday Club..................................................................45 Use Your Words: Language Lessons ..........47

Your Cheese & Wine Place

20 ways families can give back to their communities

We find the deals, you get the savings

EAT. LEARN. PLAY Kids Beat .............................................................................8 One to Watch: Kiran Waqar ...............................10 Fit Families: Aerial Dance ..................................11 Destination Recreation: Ikea Montréal ...12 Bookworms: Cookbooks ........................................13 Balancing Act: The van den Bergs................14 The Art of A-Frame Building ...........................15 Checkup: Flu Shots .................................................16 Mealtime: Shooﬂy Pie .............................................17

GIFT BASKETS Cheese, wine, sweets

Keep It Local...22 Support Vermont businesses with these 10 holiday gift ideas

CALENDAR Daily Listings ..................................................................28 Classes ..................................................................................29 Ongoing Exhibits ........................................................36 Story Times ......................................................................38 Playgroups ........................................................................40

Parting Ways...24

Navigating family after parents separate

HANDS ON ON THE COVER

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

Local

GIFT GUIDE!

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NOVEMBER 2016

Inside

Our staff members’ kids and their friends gathered for a cover-story photo shoot with Matthew Thorsen; lettering by Rev. Diane Sullivan.

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

• •

Editorial content in Kids VT is for general informational purposes. Parents must use their own discretion for following the advice in any editorial piece. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute service/product endorsement. Kids VT is a proud member of the Parenting Media Association. Kids VT distribution is audited for accuracy. Da Capo Publishing shall not be held liable to any advertiser for any loss that results from the incorrect publication of its advertisement. If a mistake is ours, and the advertising purpose has been rendered valueless, Da Capo Publishing may cancel the charges for the advertisement, or a portion thereof as deemed reasonable by the publisher. Da Capo Publishing reserves the right to refuse any advertising, including inserts, at the discretion of the publishers.

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

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

Contributing Writers: Janet Essman Franz, Megan James, Astrid Hedbor Lague, Mary Ann Lickteig, Ken Picard, Jessica Lara Ticktin, Jess Wisloski, Sarah Yahm Photographers: Matthew Thorsen, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur Illustrators: Kim Scafuro, Rev. Diane Sullivan

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Up-Close with Sled Dogs with October Siberian Sled Dogs at ECHO

Saturday, Nov. 26 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., & 2 p.m.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Be the Change

The Novak Family, Thanksgiving 2015

are capable of, look no further than Kiran Waqar, profiled in this month’s “One to Watch” (page 10). The South Burlington 16-year-old has collected blankets for Syrian refugees, made activity bags for hospitalized children and helped kids in Pakistan learn English. She also promotes social change through her slam poetry group, Muslim Girls Making Change. In addition to being the giving season, these next two months are typically filled with family celebrations. For parents going through separation or divorce, it can be a tough time of year. Contributor Jess Wisloski, who separated from her toddler’s father last year, writes about navigating schedules, living arrangements and communication post-split — and gives advice about what not to say to parents who are breaking up — in “Parting Ways” on page 24. On a lighter note, if you’re looking for a yummy addition to your Thanksgiving table, try Astrid Lague’s recipe for Pennsylvania Dutch shoofly pie on page 17. And, because the holidays are fast approaching, we’ve also put together a fun gift guide. It’s composed exclusively of goods from Vermont-based companies, because it feels good to support local businesses. Check it out on page 22. We assure you there’s something for everyone — little kids and big ones.

KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER 2016 KIDS VT

ALISON NOVAK, MANAGING EDITOR

MY SON AND DAUGHTER are 6 and 9 now — big kids who strap on their backpacks and walk into the school building on their own. I can no longer rock them to sleep or scoop them up in my arms when they scrape their knees. I feel sad sometimes, watching them grow up and realizing that they’ll never need me in quite the same way they did when they were little. But, I also take great joy in seeing them mature. They’ve reached that stage of development where they understand that they’re not the center of the universe, and that other people have wants and needs just as they do. I’ve had many conversations this past year with my fourth grader, Mira, about the fact that not everyone has a home or gets paid a decent wage. I believe it’s important to talk openly with kids about injustice and inequalities. We can also teach them that they can be the change they wish to see in the world. That was the inspiration for this month’s feature “Do Good, Feel Good” (page 18), where we asked local nonproﬁts and readers for ways in which families can give back during the holiday season. Their suggestions ranged from preparing a meal for a local shelter to collecting canned goods, diapers or old coats. We hope you’ll ﬁnd a few things on the list to do with your family. If you’re looking for a role model to show your kids what young people

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SEE & SAY

Eat Up!

Staff Weighs In

Looking for some international cooking inspiration? Visit kidsvt.com this month for recipes for Spanakopita Rolls (right) and Pistachio Baklava with Orange Blossom Syrup from contributor Astrid Lague.

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving food? Turkey day is coming! We asked our colleagues at Kids VT and our sister publication, Seven Days, to tell us about the tastiest dish on their family’s Thanksgiving table. MY DAD’S BRUSSELS SPROUTS HASH

Combine crumbled bacon, chopped Brussels sprouts, rough-cut onions, and a little chopped garlic. Sauté with vegetable or olive oil. Add a little balsamic vinegar and white wine. You would never imagine anything with Brussels sprouts could taste so good!˙

Contributor’s Note Originally from Montréal, Québec, Jessica Lara Ticktin (“Use Your Words,” “Balancing Act”) has lived in Toronto, New York City, New Jersey and Cape Town, South Africa. She now resides in Burlington with her husband, Adam Rubin, and their four daughters. Ticktin teaches childbirth and postpartum classes at Evolution Prenatal and Family Yoga Center. A nomad at heart, Ticktin loves to˙travel and is a freelance writer for print and˙radio˙and a coproducer of the Parent.co podcast Where Was I…?

Matt Weiner

CIRCULATION MANAGER Jessica with her oldest daughter, Dahlia, in Paris

In 2014, Ticktin wrote a Kids VT blog series, On the Fly, about traveling around the world with her husband and three daughters — while pregnant. Read about her worldly adventures in Japan, China, Israel and beyond at kidsvt.com.

Don't Miss Out!

KIDS VT

˜°˛˝ KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER 2016

Turn to page 28 for a full list of November events!

CALENDAR Sled Dogs at ECHO

Saturday, November 26, 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. at ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington.

Thursday, November 24, 10 a.m.-noon, at the Stowe Arena on Park Street.

Saturday, November 19, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Davis Center, University of Vermont, Burlington.

POLYNESIAN CARROTS

I made up this dish one year because all I had in my house was a big bag of baby carrots, a jar of macadamia nuts and some Hawaiian sweet-and-sour sauce. People actually liked them and now I make them every Thanksgiving. Boil the carrots ’til they are slightly tender. Mix 'em up with the nuts and the sauce. Then bake in the oven for a while.˙

Rev. Diane Sullivan

Thanksgiving Turkey Skate

Aiken K-12 Maker Faire

MY GRANDMA IAMS’ ONION PUDDING

SEVEN DAYS ART DIRECTOR AND KIDS VT COLORING CONTEST ILLUSTRATOR

MASHED POTATOES

I’m sort of a mashed potatoes connoisseur. The creamier the better (heavy cream and/or butter helps). You could just take a pile of mashed potatoes and mold it into the shape of a turkey and that’d be the perfect T-day dinner for me. ˙ ˙

Bryan Parmelee

DIGITAL PRODUCTION SPECIALIST

STUFFING

Just stuff me instead of the turkey. Seriously. I can eat my weight in Thanksgiving stufﬁng.

Charlotte Scott GRAPHIC DESIGNER

MY MOM’S BROCCOLI CASSEROLE

I think it might be more cheese than broccoli, which might explain why it’s so good!

Cathy Resmer

EXECUTIVE EDITOR AND COPUBLISHER

Combine lots of ﬁnely chopped onions and a few sticks of butter, heat it up, top with breadcrumbs and bake. It makes a strangely delicious, savory custard.

Alison Novak

MANAGING EDITOR

GRANDMOTHER ANNE’S KALE

(made by my daughters) Sauté torn pieces of kale and lots of garlic in olive oil for two minutes, add water, tamari and freshly ground pepper. Cook until tender. Also delicious with my addition of crisp bacon pieces!

Brett Stanciu

CALENDAR WRITER

MY GRANDMOTHERS' JELL°O MOLDS

One is strawberry Jell-O, fruit, some white custard in the middle and walnuts. The other is green jello with marshmallows and pineapples. Both are exclusive to Thanksgiving, which might be why they are so coveted.

Brooke Bousquet ART DIRECTOR

GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

French-cut green beans from the can (fresh and frozen just don’t cut it), cream of mushroom soup, fried onion rings and lots of salt and black pepper. My secret is to mix half a can of onion rings into the beans and soup mixture and put the other half on top. As a leftover (if you’re lucky), green bean casserole makes a great alternative to mayo or Miracle Whip on turkey sandwiches.˙

Don Eggert

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

RUTABAGA Mashed.

Colby Roberts COPUBLISHER

Winners' Circle In last month’s issue, we asked young poets to write about their HALLOWEEN COSTUMES. The two winners each receive a $25 gift certiﬁcate to Crow Bookshop in Burlington. Below are the winning entries.

Lily Ide, 8 RICHMOND

Ava Collins, 10

MILTON I am going to be Blossom from the Powerpuff Girls. She’s also the leader. For Halloween, I am going to be I am going to be Blossom this year Hermione Granger from Harry because the Powerpuff Girls just Potter. My family is reading Harry grabbed on to me this year. I really Potter. My costume will keep me like Blossom because she is energetic, warm because it is very soft and it strong, funny and playful. is a robe. I also have a wand She is sort of like a 5-yearand stuffed animal, which old role model for me Find the November is Hermione Granger’s because she is sort of like a writing prompt on cat. I am so excited for tougher and stronger me! page 44. Happy writing! Halloween. I hope it comes I hope I enjoy dressing up fast, very fast. like her this year!

COLORING CONTEST

Young artists went wild with mixed mediums this month, using felt, glitter, gel pens and paints to produce some marvelous work. Four-year-old Molly gave her bat gold and red wings, mirroring the fantastic fall foliage. In 10-year-old Samantha Martin’s masterpiece, a coppery creature ﬂies across a dark blue sky, carrying a lit jack-o-lantern over a crescent moon. Reill Norton, 8, created a devilishly thieving bat, soaring above canary-yellow houses, orange pumpkins and a tiny ﬁgure yelling "Come back!" Your entries were amazing, kiddos. Keep up the splendid work!

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

5 and under

“Rainbow Bat” Mekhenna Ladeau, 4, Barre

HONORABLE MENTIONS SAY BOO!

Kelsey Glanz, 5, Jericho STEALING SKITTLES

Hadley Harris, 11, Ferrisburgh THE TREAT BANDIT

Nylah D’Amico, 8, Je˛ ersonville The Kalp family of Wolcott are winners in THE FRESH AIR FUND’S ˛˝˙ˆ PHO TO CONTEST. Their snapshot, which won top honors in the “Waterfalls” category, features 7-year-old Fresh Air kid, Choice, swimming at Moss Glen Falls in Stowe with host sibling Quinn. Laura Kalp, mom to 7-year-old Charlie and 9-year-old Quinn, told Kids VT that her family has hosted Choice for the past two summers. “I feel like he has become a member of our family so quickly,” Kalp wrote, “and we will look forward to watching him grow up with our boys.” She says one of her favorite moments was two summers ago, when Choice saw a rainbow for the ﬁrst time: “It was pure awe and joy — so special."

HALLOWEEN HAPPINESS

Jaxin DuBose, 5, Burlington 6 to 8

BLACK BAT ON A SCARY NIGHT

Abigail Russell, 10, Brookﬁeld A THIEF, A THIEF!

Hattie Sterling, 3, Fairhaven CANDY CORN CREATION

Sophia R. B. Giammusso, 8, Calais

“The Night of Halloween” Ada Clar, 6, Montpelier

SILVERY MOON

Evelyn Trojbom, 11, Barre BEAUTIFUL BLUE BAT

Levi Hoague, 5, St. Albans

TOP ! S HONOR

HAIRY BATTER

Cassidy Bouchard, 10, and Veronica Miskavage, 10, Hinesburg MUMMY MADNESS

MAMA BAT’S NIGHT FLIGHT

Willow Heywood, 6, Middlebury

“DELIVERY BAT”

Sebastian Hempey, 5, Richmond “STAYING COOL FOR HALLOWEEN”

Madelin Crowley, 8, Belvidere

Dominic Mezzilli, 11, Moretown

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

KIDS VT

“TRICK°OR°TREATING IN THE GRAVEYARD”

“Trick or Treat” Raegan Decker, 11, Fairfax

NOVEMBER ˜°˛˝

9 to 12

TOP TITLES

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Emilia Carine, 8, Underhill

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OUTDOORS

The Gift of Nature Exciting news for outdoor enthusiasts: There’s a new Vermont state park for families to enjoy. Last month, the Carson Davidson Revocable Trust Fund donated 204 acres of land in Hubbardton to the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. The TACONIC MOUNTAINS RAMBLE STATE PARK was the

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KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER 2016 KIDS VT

Local sponsorship provided by Geokon and Ledyard National Bank.

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ACTIVISM

Small Change 350Vermont, a nonprofit devoted to solving the climate crisis, has organized campaigns to divest the state from fossil fuels, stop the Vermont Gas Systems proposal to construct a fracked gas pipeline across Hinesburg’s Geprags Park and provide financial incentives to make Vermonters’ homes more energy eœcient. Now it’s hoping to spur families to take action in both their own communities and ones most až ected by the fossil-fuel industry. In 2016, they launched MOTHER UP!: PARENTS EXCHANGE FOR CHANGE CAMPAIGN, spurred by the belief that “parents are powerful voices in fighting for the health and safety of our collective future,” explained project coordinator Abby Mnookin. Last August, Mnookin’s family and four others traveled to the Pennsylvania shale fields to see the results of fracking firsthand. Mnookin shared commentary about the trip on Vermont Public Radio. “Raising children in a time of climate change can be frightening and isolating,” she said. “But by joining with other parents through Mother Up!, my family builds community, and I feel empowered by the knowledge that we’re stronger together.” For more information about MOTHER UP!: PARENTS EXCHANGE FOR CHANGE, including monthly meeting times and locations, visit 350vermont.org/campaigns/mother-up.

9/27/16 11:44 AM

Mother Up! kids at a Dakota Access Pipeline protest solidarity rally

COURTESY OF ABBY MNOOKIN

Open Daily 10–5

For more information on the TACONIC MOUNTAINS RAMBLE STATE PARK, visit vtstateparks.com in the coming months.

10/27/16 3:56 PM

Now through January 2

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vision of documentary ﬁlmmaker and author Carson “Kit” Davidson, who died recently at age 92. Davidson and his wife, Mickie, who resided in New York City, bought the property in 1966 as a vacation spot for $69 an acre. Through the years, Davidson blazed trails, preserved wildﬂower meadows, built a Japanese garden and welcomed visitors. With the formal transfer of property, the land will be maintained by the parks department — and will continue to be open to the public for hiking, skiing and quiet contemplation.

COURTESY OF VERMONT STATE PARKS

citizen

BY A LISON N OVAK

EAT. LEARN. PLAY.

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BOOKS

Cat Tale As an anthropologist, Burlington resident Charles NorrisBrown traveled the world doing fieldwork related to conservation. While in India in 1999 with Project Tiger, he asked locals how he could help promote forest and tiger preservation. Their answer? Write and illustrate a children’s book. Fast-forward 17 years: In October, Norris-Brown’s first picture book, DID TIGER TAKE THE RAIN?, was published by Vermont-based Green Writers Press. The story, set in a village in Nepal, focuses on two young girls who journey into the forest to ask the tiger why the weather has been so hot and dry. On the way, they meet a jackal and a monkey, who help the children understand the interconnectedness of people, animals and their habitat and give them seeds to plant. NorrisBrown spent a month in Nepal doing research for the book — interviewing Nepali people about their folklore and attitudes about tigers, and taking thousands of photos on which his watercolor illustrations are based. Three tigers are hidden in the pictures for younger children to find, and a

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teacher’s page provides additional resources. Ultimately, says NorrisBrown, his goal is to “try to share what I know about things with children, but to do it in a way that’s fun.” DID TIGER TAKE THE RAIN? Green Writers Press, $19.95. Ages 6-10. Visit cwnorrisbrown.com for more information.

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Babbitt will be presented with the VICTOR R. SWENSON HUMANITIES EDUCATOR AWARD — along with a $1,000 check — on Saturday, November 5, at the University of Vermont’s Davis Center during the Vermont Humanities Council fall conference.

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NOVEMBER 2016

that produces an annual ﬁlm festival, the post states. And in November, she spends three afternoons a week, and sometimes Saturdays, helping students participate in National Novel Writing Month. In recognizing Babbitt, “we pay tribute to all the ﬁne teachers in the profession in the Green Mountain State, and we honor the important work they do,” said VHC executive director Peter Gilbert.

KIDSVT.COM

People rarely go into the teaching profession for the glory. Nevertheless, recognition seems only fair. Last month, the Vermont Humanities Council selected Joyce Yoo Babbitt, librarian at Browns River Middle School in Jericho, to receive the VICTOR R. SWENSON HUMANITIES EDUCATOR AWARD. Created in 2003, the award honors an educator in grades 6 through 12 who exempliﬁes excellence in teaching the humanities. In a post on its website announcing the selection, the council praised the way Babbitt combines “exceptional enthusiasm for teaching with technical proﬁciency and a sense of fun.” In addition to supporting students’ classroom projects, Babbitt leads a winter writing club, a photography club, an animation club and a Claymation club

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Q ONE TO WATCH

BY MARY ANN LICKT EIG

The Spirit of Service A South Burlington teen sets her sights on changing the world IN THE LAST YEAR, Kiran Waqar has collected blankets for Syrians, made activity bags for hospitalized children and helped start a local chapter of Results, a nonprofit th t works to end hunger and poverty. So it’s fi ting that during a family vacation to Pakistan last summer, she made time for charity work. Though the reason for the trip was to visit relatives, Kiran’s dad, Waqar Waheed, didn’t want to hold his daughter back. “When you see this kind of passion in your children, you’ve got to support them,” he said. His siblings in Pakistan connected Kiran with Door of Awareness, an NGO that provides free education to poor children in Lahore, and she worked there for a week. Kiran wears traditional Muslim clothing, covering herself from head to toe. It was early July, and the temperature hovered around 100 degrees. Lahore periodically went without electricity — and air-conditioning — in a practice called load shedding, done to avoid a power-system blackout. “I, myself, who was born and raised in Pakistan, I could not stay outside for more than half an hour,” Waheed said. “But this girl was dedicated.” It was also Ramadan, the holy month when Muslims abstain from all food and drink between sunup and sundown. Nevertheless, 16-year-old Kiran worked all day helping kids learn English and work on speeches they would present to their teachers

and principal. Once, she even inspired her 7-year-old brother to join her. When she explains her love for service, Kiran, the oldest of four children, sounds like a thrill seeker: “I volunteer because of the amazing feeling you get.” Also, she explained that her religion requires her to be kind to other people. “My actions are bigger than myself.” Motivation and passion burn in Kiran, her father said. “You can see it in her eyes.” Kiran describes community service as a spark that ignites greater good. The blanket project, for example, garnered the attention of Gov. Peter Shumlin, and several Vermont businesses contributed to the effort. The group collected 5,000 blankets and articles of clothing and $2,000 in cash for people fleeing violence in Syria. One blanket going to one person helps enable the potential in that person, Kiran explained. Of the kids she worked with in Pakistan last summer, Kiran said, “If they had the same opportunities as me, they could do so much more than I ever could. I want people to understand.” Getting conversations started is a theme in Kiran’s life. In Vermont, she makes a statement just by walking into a room wearing a hijab — a Muslim headscarf — and an abaya or other long, modest dress. Born in Burlington, she decided last year, on the fi st day of her sophomore year at South Burlington High School, to wear

NAME: KIRAN WAQAR AGE: 16 TOWN: SOUTH BURLINGTON the traditional clothes after years of working so hard to blend in. “I realized I’m brown. I’m always going to be brown. Nothing is going to change that,” she said, “and I should be OK with that.” Kiran also decided to speak up: She and three other high school students from Burlington and South Burlington started Muslim Girls Making Change, a youth group dedicated to social change through slam poetry. In July, they competed at the Brave New

Voices International Youth Poetry Slam Festival in Washington, D.C. “Their poetry is courageous and forthright, sometimes on difficul topics, always important to hear,” said Susie Merrick, Healthy Schools coordinator for the South Burlington School District. The trip to D.C. was Kiran’s second in three months. In May, she won a four-day trip as one of two Vermont students honored with a Prudential Spirit of Community Award, which recognizes volunteer service. While there, she was invigorated by the energy of other student activists she met: “I came back to Vermont thinking, I can change the world.” K

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

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Q FIT FAMILIES

EAT. LEARN. PLAY.

BY JANE T E SSMAN F RANZ

Aerial Dance

The kids worked in small groups at each fabric, taking turns swinging and spinning with a spotter.

Instructor Nicole Dagesse with student Ella Roth

KIDS VT

“Fit Families” is a monthly feature that offers easy and affordable ways to stay active. Got an idea for a future FF? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

NOVEMBER 2016

Dahlia Steele

TAKE A SPIN in circles with his arms and Kids’ aerial dance classes take place on Monday legs extended, as if flying afternoons at North End Studios (294 N. WinZac said he could feel his ooski Ave., Burlington). Attend an Intro to Aerial tummy and leg muscles workshop on Saturday, November 12, or an working. Aerial Playshop for Families on Friday, November 25. Throughout the class, Dagesse offered support. “Nice transitions,” she said. For more information, visit northendstudios.org or email Nicole Dagesse at ndagesse@gmail.com. “Try to keep your hips low so you’re using your core gender-neutral. It makes it different and shoulders.” than other styles of dance that are Next Dagesse instructed the more targeted to females.” children to imagine they were tigers She then showed the group how to crawling through the jungle as they moved through a series of challenges: climb up a fabric, rotating a lower leg Swing back and forth on the purple to wrap the cloth around her foot. This fabric; slide and roll on the floor o gave her leverage to climb higher, and the green fabric and pull up on it to she continued wrapping and climbing stand; raise both legs in a sweeping until she reached the top. Zac was eager to try out the move. motion; return to the floor; c awl “It’s hard work,” he said as he along the mats back to the end of the descended. I could see it was a total line. In another activity, the children body workout. I could also tell by his improvised stories about explorers and creatures emerging from cocoons, smile that he enjoyed spiraling on the using the fabrics wrapped around silks, imitating the whimsical moves them as imaginary shelters. of the male dancers in Flip FabriQue. To keep active kids engaged, “Teaching improvisational and Dagesse has them practice highchoreographic skills allows the energy moves, like climbing high and children to expand their dynamic spinning fast. “It’s a good way to build range and encourage new moveinterest,” she said, “and get them ment,” Dagesse told me later. “I hooked.” K use animal imagery, things that are

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Zac and I had recently gone to the Flynn Center for Performing Arts to see Flip FabriQue, a Québec-based dance troupe that does aerial acrobatics with hoops, ropes, fabrics and trampolines. He enjoyed watching the dancers’ playful antics and gravitydefying feats, and was excited to try something similar. We went to a class taught by dancer Nicole Dagesse, who opened an aerial studio at North End Studios in Burlington last August. The studio was spacious, with smooth wood floo s and mirrored walls. Green and purple fabrics dangled from clamps attached to beams on the ceiling, and soft music played from a corner stereo. The day we attended, fi e girls and two boys, ages 7-10, participated in the class. Clad in athletic pants or tights, T-shirts, and bare feet or socks, the kids worked in small groups at each fabric, taking turns swinging and spinning with a spotter. Dagesse helped Zac lie forward with a green silk looped beneath him. She told him to push the fabric under his thighs rather than his belly. Sevenyear-old Elijah spotted Zac as he spun

PHOTOS: MATTHEW THORSEN

WHEN MY SONS WERE TODDLERS, they loved to tumble on mats, flip ver parallel bars and balance on beams at our local gymnastics studio. But by the time they went to elementary school, they didn’t know any other boys their age who did gymnastics. Eventually, they decided to drop out. It made me sad because, as a fitne s professional, I know that gymnastics, dancing and acrobatics are great exercise for any gender. So I was excited for the opportunity to introduce my 8-year-old son, Zac, to aerial dance. It’s essentially acrobatics done with fabrics — often called silks, although they’re typically made of nylon — mounted on the ceiling. Dancers climb, hang, spin and soar with the fabric wrapped around their legs, arms and torsos.

Q DESTINATION RECREATION BY ME G A N JA MES

Ikea Montréal

NOVEMBER 2016 KIDS VT

WHEN IT CAME TIME to get my 2-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Joni, her fi st big-kid bed, I had what turned out to be a brilliant idea: We’d go to Ikea in Montréal. We could have found a suitable bed closer to our Middlebury home, but it’s hard to beat the prices at the Swedish retailer. And I thought Joni would love the Ikea experience: the living room arrangements to explore, the colorful bedding to flop upon and — a real treat for my Vermont girl — an escalator. Besides, I had a hankering for Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce. So, my husband, my mom, Joni and I piled into our car and headed north. Google said the trip would take about two and a half hours. But construction detours sent us crisscrossing the city, so it took us three. Still, our spirits were high when we pulled into the massive parking lot. We beelined it to the cafeteria, where we watched with amusement as folks pushed lunch trays to their tables on specially designed carts. Joni was literally jumping for joy. We ordered Swedish meatballs with all the fixin s, salmon on a grain salad, macaroni and cheese, and an intriguing elderfl wer juice box. (They also sell wine, beer, and apple and pear cider.) Each entree was under $7 Canadian and Joni’s meal came with a voucher for free ice cream, to be redeemed at the store’s exit. A good motivator, I thought, to get her through the last leg of the shopping experience. We grabbed Joni a set of brightly colored kids’ utensils and sat down at a round counter that encircled a toddler play space. Parents could eat in peace while enjoying a perfect view of their kids playing below. “They thought of everything!” my husband said. It became our mantra throughout the day, especially when we noticed that the spacious family restrooms were fully stocked with free diapers of all sizes. (I later learned that the cafeteria offers baby food,

bottle warming and complimentary bibs, too.) Onward to the children’s section. My mom went ahead to scope out the beds while we hung back with Joni, who busied herself trying out every single chair. We came across an abacus, a wooden dollhouse, stuffed animals, plush soccer balls and a toddler-size tent village. Joni wanted to take off her shoes. When I suggested she should keep them on because the floor mig t be gross, she said, “It’s OK, Mummy. This is Canada.” And the shoes came off. At last, we reached the beds. Joni dove into one, tucking herself under a rainbow duvet. Then she tried another that was shaded by a leaf-shaped canopy. Her favorite was the “high-up bed,” which was perched at the top of a ladder above a cozy reading nook. We made our selection, a simple extendable bed called the Sundvik, then convinced Joni to move on. At Ikea, it’s impossible to just get what you came for and leave. You have to follow the fl w — through the living room displays, the kitchens, the bedrooms, the offic , until you reach “the marketplace,” which is where they try to sell you bits and bobs like a 100count package of tea lights or a potted plant. And by then, you’re usually thinking, Get me out of here! Thankfully, my mom turned the trek into a game for Joni: We cruised along the gray walkway chanting, “Follow the gray road!” And just before my nap-less toddler was about to blow a gasket, we found a cart to push her in.

COURTESY OF MEGAN JAMES

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991 Boulevard Cavendish

Joni riding through the warehouse

PROS • It doesn’t get much better than an outing that’s fun for kids and productive for adults. Joni got to play, we all got to eat and we crossed a big item off of our to-do list. • If your children are potty trained and between 37 and 54 inches tall you can leave them at Ikea’s supervised play area for up to an hour while you shop.

CONS Finally, we made it to the warehouse, where we hoisted the boxes containing Joni’s new bed onto another cart, then wheeled it (and her) through the aisles. By the time we reached the checkout, we were exhausted — and ready for that free ice cream. The yogurt glacé was only $1 Canadian, so we each got one.

• On the Sunday afternoon we visited, it was crowded and chaotic. If you have a toddler who bolts, you might want to bring a stroller — or a leash. On the car ride home, we all drifted into a post-shopping daze. Joni fell asleep to the sound of rain on the windshield, ice cream all over her shirt. It was a perfect day. K

Local parents review a family-friendly attraction each month in “Destination Recreation.” Got a spot you’d like us to feature? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

✱ BOOKWORMS B Y A L ISO N NOVAK

Family-Friendly Cookbooks Whether you’re baking sweet treats for holiday gifts or preparing savory dishes for family feasts, there’s a good chance you’ll be doing a lot of cooking in the coming months. We asked two locals in the know — Courtney Contos of Chef Contos Kitchen & Store in Shelburne, and Sandy Scott of the Galaxy Bookshop in Hardwick — to recommend cookbooks ﬁlled with recipes the whole family will enjoy. Give one as a gift, or keep it for yourself and add an extra helping of deliciousness to your seasonal festivities. Contos recommends:

The Vermont Farm Table Cookbook: 150 Home-Grown Recipes from the Green Mountain State BY TRACEY MEDEIROS

“This cookbook is so fun because you can make recipes from farms you know, or learn about new farms and then go visit them.” The 125 rustic-yetreﬁned recipes, like Vermont Cheddar Soup and woodﬁred Blueberry Goat Cheese Pizza, come from both celebrated chefs and hardworking farmers.

AT PLAY IT AGAIN SPORTS we know kids and how to outfit them for sports. We have been buying and selling new and used kids sports equipment FOR THE PAST 22 YEARS.

Cookie Love

BY MINDY SEGAL WITH KATE LEAHY

“This is a book written by a friend in Chicago. She does a great job of getting us excited for holiday baking!” The 60 recipes — more elevated interpretations of classic cookies — range from Fleur de Sel Shortbread to Peaches and Cream Thumbprints. Scott recommends:

101 One-Dish Dinners: Hearty Recipes for the Dutch Oven, Skillet & Casserole Pan BY ANDREA CHESMAN

“If you’re looking for simple meals without a lot of cleanup, try this selection by Vermont cookbook author Chesman. The healthy comfort-food classics in this volume range from soups to casseroles to hearty salads and can be made and served in one of three pieces of cookware: a cast-iron skillet, a glass casserole dish or a salad bowl.”

We have everything you need for hockey, skating, downhill skiing, snowboarding, xc skiing and snowshoeing.

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The Cabot Creamery Cookbook: Simple, Wholesome Dishes from America’s Best Dairy Farms

HAVE YOUR KIDS OUTGROWN THEIR GEAR OR WANT TO TRY A NEW SPORT?

BY CABOT CREAMERY

150 Dorset St. So. Burlington, VT 05403 802-865-3021 • playitagainsportssoburlington.com Open 7 days a week

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Recommendations compiled by Alison Novak

NOVEMBER 2016

“This book incorporates dairy products such as cheese, butter and yogurt into an array of mouthwatering and easy-to-make recipes. There is a mix here of recipes from the Creamery’s test kitchens and from the kitchens of their farm families; proﬁles and photographs of the farmers are featured alongside their recipes. Whether you’re craving some homemade mac and cheese or looking for a new breakfast treat, look no further!”

9/25/15 10:53 AM

Q BALANCING ACT

BY JESSICA LARA TICKTIN

No Spare Time

An international pair on running an inn and bowling alley while raising three kids WHEN RACHEL VAN DEN BERG moved

I have so much respect for stay-at-home moms, but it wasn’t what I felt was good for me or our family.

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2016

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RACHEL VAN DEN BERG Less than a year after that Vermont vacation, Rachel’s parents — who had owned the Sun & Ski Inn and Suites in Stowe for 17 years — decided they were ready to sell the property. In this, they all saw opportunity: jobs for Rachel and Mark; a business partnership for her parents; and three generations being close and supporting each other. Rachel and Mark decided to go for it. So in 2011, they shipped all their belongings to Vermont and became owners — in partnership with her parents — and managers of the Sun & Ski Inn and Suites. Their house is located on the property. In the fi e years since the family’s move, Rachel and Mark have made several additions. Daughter Reagan was born in 2013, and the couple opened Stowe Bowl, a boutique bowl-

together that closely when you can get very frustrated with each other! We each have our own way of doing things. On meal prep:

RACHEL: What helps is that we do Blue

Dad: Mark van den Berg, 35

Apron twice a week. It’s a subscription and you get a box every week with two recipes and all the ingredients. It’s all portioned out, and you just have to do all the chopping and mixing and preparation, so that makes it a little bit easier for planning the meals for the week. If I have to plan seven nights of dinner, I’m like, Oh my god! MARK: Those recipes are a particular challenge. Lots of measuring and chopping! Sometimes I don’t feel like doing 20 minutes of chopping. RACHEL: It’s a lot of chopping. But it’s all fresh food!

Owners/managers, Sun & Ski Inn and Suites, Stowe Golf Park and Stowe Bowl

RACHEL: We had a great hike a couple

JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR

abroad, she always planned to return to the United States someday. She grew up in Stowe, then studied in the Netherlands during college, where she met her husband, Mark. They married in Vermont and settled in Utrecht, where Rachel did development work for a nonprofit and ark was employed by the Dutch government. In 2010, their twins, Noah and Evangeline, were born. The couple was so busy with work and long commutes that some days Mark didn’t see the kids at all. Later that year, the family of four traveled to Vermont to visit Rachel’s relatives. The prospect of staying in Rachel’s beautiful home state, with family nearby, was enticing. They longed for a support system and a better work-life balance but didn’t know how or when that would happen.

ing alley and lounge attached to the inn, in February of this year. They admit that life is still hectic, but a two-minute commute and grandparents willing to lend a hand make things a lot easier. On splitting up work responsibilities:

RACHEL: We run the day-to-day opera-

Mom : Rachel van den Berg, 36

Kids: Noah and Evangeline, 6; Reagan, 3

tions of the business, and we do that basically 50-50, but we have different strengths and different subresponsibilities. For instance, I am a planner so I set the schedule and I deal with housekeeping, HR, sales and marketing. MARK: I am the sloppy one! No plan. I go day by day. RACHEL: He does all the finances and the daily reporting with the bookkeeper. And he’s the more creative one, so he does all the graphic art and website and photography, and does maintenance projects.

out the trash, those kinds of things. All in all, it’s probably 50-50 at home — but with her more in the lead! RACHEL: I would say that we get as close to 50-50 on all fronts as probably possible. I have driven home that it was really important to me in our marriage because I like to work. I have so much respect for stay-at-home moms, but that wasn’t my choice and it wasn’t what I felt was good for me or our family.

On splitting up domestic labor:

so I think it strengthens our relationship. RACHEL: I defini ely think it has strengthened our relationship because when we were working in our careers before, we couldn’t relate to each other as much. Now, after a long day, we can debrief with each other and share what’s going on. But there are also times when you are working

MARK: Rachel is more of the planner,

so she thinks of things that need to be done, like getting the kids’ clothes ready, their bags ready. They have soccer on Wednesday, and I would forget it, but she thinks of stuff li e that. I try to make up for that by doing fi e loads of laundry on a Friday when I’m at home or cleaning up the house, taking

On running a business together:

MARK: I think it fl ws kind of naturally,

On finding together time

of weeks ago. We hiked Big Spruce and then we went to Sushi Yoshi for dinner. We also started mountain biking, so we try to get out on some rides together once in a while. On finding time alone

MARK: I am a photography enthusiast

so I try to get out and take photos. It’s a really nice thing to be out early in the morning. All you can hear are the birds and, of course, Vermont is so spectacular. I defini ely need to clear my mind occasionally. RACHEL: You can’t have it all every day, every week, and for me that is one of the hardest things — me time always comes last. On balance:

RACHEL: We do have balance right

now, the best that is possible. It ebbs and fl ws. There are times when stuff comes up and you lose that balance. I am an overachiever, and I used to think balance is something you can achieve, or plan for the future. But one thing we have learned is that you can’t plan balance — you just have to do it. K

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

Q THE ART OF

BY SARA H YA HM

EAT. LEARN. PLAY.

A-Frame Building SARAH YAHM

Eddie Merma with his building students

For more information about Eddie Merma’s Sculpture School, visit sculptureschoolvt.com.

KIDS VT

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

NOVEMBER 2016

Farm in Waitsfield, but he s excited to collaborate with Cory and Chris Stephenson, the new owners of Pony Farm and enthusiastic Sculpture School parents. Cory, a longtime environmental educator, is hoping to turn Pony Farm into a place-based education center for kids and adults, and to fill xisting gaps in the Mad River Valley’s food system. She planted Christmas trees this year and intends to plant apple trees soon. She reached out to Merma to jump-start the farm’s educational programming. His classes, she believes, provide kids with a sense of agency and competence sorely lacking in a risk-averse educational climate. In addition to offering a learning experience, the brightly colored A-frame will be a multipurpose space for future educational programs. “It’s an outdoor classroom that kids built,” Jasper explained enthusiastically from his perch halfway up the structure. “It comes full circle.” K

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COURTESY OF EDDIE MERMA

ON A WARM OCTOBER DAY, six kids tromped up Pancake Hill at Moretown’s Pony Farm toward a half-built A-frame structure they’d worked on over the last month. The 7- to 12-year-olds gathered in a circle, discussing their accomplishments and what they still needed to do. It was the fifth ession of Sculpture School, a six-week after-school program run by Eddie Merma, a sculptor originally from Chicago. Merma began teaching building classes for kids in the Mad River Valley two years ago. His offerings range from utilitarian classes on building yurts, tiny houses and A-frames to wildly creative lessons in making original carnival games and vehicles. All of them are guided by the same philosophy — he seeks to “generate curiosity about the way things work,” help kids develop “a creative eye,” and to empower them to make, and learn from, their mistakes. “With basic tools and some basic math you can create something lifesized, something that you can inhabit ... something permanent,” he explained while his students painted panels that they’d later attach to the A-frame structure using electric drills. Merma makes sure that at every possible opportunity his young students contribute to design decisions. “Eddie has given us all these different options,” 10-year-old Jasper Mayone of Fayston explained enthusiastically. Merma elaborated, pointing to the unique geometric designs on the side of the A-frame: “There are things we need to accomplish for structural integrity, but, if we want to cut a big circle right here to make a shape, we can weave all these things in,” he said. The kids weighed in on where to put wood siding panels and polycarbonate roof panels. They decided to create a design that generates interesting shadows inside the structure. Jasper thinks the outdoor class provides an important alternative to his school learning. “Working up here calms us down,” he said seriously, gesturing to the wide expanse of the valley. “In school we don’t have that much choice and we’re inside a classroom working.” Merma normally teaches at Knoll

Q CHECK UP W I T H D R . L EW I S F I R S T

What Should Parents Know About the Seasonal Flu Shot?

FLU SEASON is officiall upon us. Medical experts can’t predict how serious it will be this year or exactly when it will affect Vermonters. But the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics agree that one of the best protections against this serious respiratory ailment is for everyone over 6 months of age through adulthood to get vaccinated, assuming they haven’t had a rare severe allergic reaction to a prior influenza vaccine. This month, Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital, takes a shot at addressing some of the concerns parents may have about the flu vaccine and explains why its benefitsfar outweigh the risks. k8v-PreventChildAbuse0211.indd 1

Thank You Campers!

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NOVEMBER 2016

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(802) 475-2022

www.lcmm.org

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KIDS VT: How does influenza differ from a standard cold? LEWIS FIRST: There are at least 200 different viruses that cause the common cold, but the cold symptoms you get due to the influenza virus are bad ones to experience. With a simple viral cold, you may get a low-grade fever and perhaps a mild cough and runny nose for a few days. But when you get the flu, it usually involves a signifi ant fever, chills, body shakes, headaches, fatigue and a dry, hacking cough that can last for weeks.

1/27/11 11:33 AM

e Lake Adventur s Camp Memorie

KVT: Is the flu more dangerous in children than adults? LF: It tends to be dangerous in small infants who have not been protected against it and don’t have the reserves in their immune system to fend it off. Certainly, when you combine flu with an underlying disease — diabetes, asthma, pneumonia, cancer — you’ve really got a battle, as those patients’ immune systems are often already compromised even before flu infects that child or adult. Flu also poses a risk to pregnant women, as well as people over age 65. KVT: The nasal flu spray isn’t available this year. Why not? LF: There used to be two types of

10/26/16 2:58 PM

vaccines. The nasal spray contained a live strain of flu that was very tame and could help build up the body’s immunity to the full-blown virus should it infect a person’s body. But the strains of fl we’re expecting this year are not susceptible to that type of vaccine. Therefore, everyone should get the injectable recombinant (inactivated) vaccine, which contains killed parts of the virus, not the live virus itself. Everyone who can should get a flu shot, and the sooner the better.

Flu is a big deal! Don’t think of it as just a bad cold. It can even be life-threatening. Dr. Lewis First KVT: Why is getting a flu shot so important? LF: Because there’s no question that, even if you come down with the flu having received the vaccine will make it a much milder case that will last days rather than weeks. If you contract a strain of the flu that’s not in the vaccine, you’ll still have some protection since there’s overlap between the strains in the vaccine and those that aren’t. Flu is a big deal! It can take parents out of work, and kids out of school, for weeks. Don’t think of it as just a bad cold. It can even be life-threatening, to children and adults. KVT: Can the vaccine itself cause adverse reactions? LF: First of all, the flu shot made up of inactivated parts of the virus doesn’t cause the flu but does help build immunity to the real virus. The most common side effects of this vaccine are mild soreness at the injection site, a low-grade fever for a day, which is rare, and maybe a mild headache, which is even rarer. We now know that even people who have an egg allergy can usually tolerate this vaccine, even though some brands of the vaccine contain small amounts of egg protein. Unless there’s a strong family history of allergic reactions to the vaccine — only about one in a million people — the CDC recommends that everyone get a flu shot.

KVT: What do you tell parents who are skeptical about the vaccine’s effectiveness? LF: Some people argue that the vaccine doesn’t always work. Yes, people can still contract influenza if they’ve received the vaccine, but it’s rare. And when it occurs, data show that the fl you get will be much milder. It’s also less likely to spread around the community. If you contract the flu, you will be contagious from the day before your symptoms appear until they’re gone. So since you’re only going to be ill for a few days rather than several weeks, you won’t be as contagious if you’ve been vaccinated. Finally, there’s no data showing that this vaccine, or other vaccines, cause autism. KVT: If kids do contract the flu, or even a milder illness, how important is it for parents to monitor their temperature? LF: It’s unimportant to follow the temperature in a child over several months of age with the flu, but very important to look at your child at any age for their ability to breathe comfortably and stay hydrated with this illness. If your child feels warm and is irritable, you can treat the fever with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. But the absolute temperature of your child is less important than making sure your child is not getting dehydrated or short of breath due to influenz . KVT: Anything else parents can do to prevent their kids from getting the flu LF: I cannot overstress the benefitsof hand washing. It’s not the substitute for a flu vaccine, but, combined with the vaccine, it can prevent your child from getting exposed to the flu or many other infections that can spread during the winter season. It’s important to teach children how to cough or sneeze into their sleeves and not into their hands, to wash their hands before meals, after using the bathroom and after being in close contact with other children, such as during recess and gym class. All those practices will go a long way to minimizing the transmission of germs and reducing the risk that your child will get sick from flu or other infections this fall and winter. K INTERVIEW COMPILED AND CONDENSED BY KEN PICARD

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

Q MEALTIME BY A ST RID HE DB O R L AGUE

A Sweet Family Tradition: Pennsylvania Dutch Shoofly Pie WIKIPEDIA IMAGES

AS A YOUNG BRIDE, my maternal grandmother — who grew up in Pennsylvania — once asked her new mother-in-law what she should make for her sweet-toothed husband for dessert. The answer? Shoofly pie. My grandmother didn’t know how to make this particular dish, but her mother-in-law assured her it was simple: Just pour molasses in a pie shell and bake it. I don’t think she liked my grandma much. The molasses boiled over, and the oven was nearly ruined. Despite the disastrous fi st attempt, my determined grandmother didn’t give up. She learned how to make a proper shoofl pie, and her recipe has been passed down through our family and is now a staple at our Thanksgiving table. As it turns out, the directions aren’t that much harder than her mother-in-law’s. With a little research, I’ve discovered shoofly pie is a colonial take on the traditional British treacle tart (like the one Harry Potter enjoyed at Hogwarts). It’s thought that German settlers in Pennsylvania — called Pennsylvania Dutch after the word Deutsche, not because they’re from the Netherlands — borrowed the recipe from English settlers. The difference between the two versions is that the

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES

Aiken K-12 Maker Faire & Engineering Challenge

molasses used in Shoofl pie is darker and bolder than the Lyle’s Golden Syrup used in the treacle tart. I take this boldness a step further by using extra dark, bitter blackstrap molasses. Since I started making it this way, I’ve become the designated baker of shoofly pie in the family. This is my 10-year-old son’s favorite pie, and he loves to help make it. I suspect that’s partly because the recipe calls for a fun baking soda-vinegar chemical reaction. One warning: If you don’t like molasses, you are not going to like this pie. Otherwise, you’re in for a rich and satisfying treat. K

Shoo y Pie

Saturday, Nov. 19, at UVM’s Davis Center

INGREDIENTS: Topping 1 1/2 cups flou 1/2 cup butter 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Filling 1 cup boiling water 3/4 cup molasses like Brer Rabbit Full Flavor or blackstrap

MAKE, create, think and play at the second annual Aiken K-12 Maker Faire & Engineering Challenge

1 tablespoon vinegar 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 unbaked pie shell (make your own crust or, for convenience, use store-bought.)

Free admission for the whole family!

In a bowl, beat together boiling water, molasses and vinegar. Add in baking soda and continue whisking until bubbly. Pour immediately into pie crust.

Spread a thick layer of the topping evenly over the surface of the pie. Wrap a strip of foil around the crust before baking so it doesn’t burn.

Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

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

UVM.edu/ K12MakerFaire

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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix topping ingredients in a food processor to make coarse crumbs.

NOVEMBER 2016

Thanksgiving pies

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASTRID HEDBOR LAGUE

DIRECTIONS:

CMF-055-15; K12 Maker Faire; Kids VT; 4C; 2.3” x 11.25”

20 ways families can give back to their communities BY ALISON NOVAK AND BRETT STANCIU

Ë&#x153;Â°

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER Ë&#x153;Â°Ë&#x203A;Ë?

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ovember isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just for giving thanks â&#x20AC;&#x201D; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the beginning of the giving season, when nonproďŹ ts mail their end-ofyear fundraising letters and adults write checks to support their work. Most kids donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have checkbooks, though. So how can the younger generation support those in need? And how can parents help their children see the value of giving to others without expecting to receive something in return? To answer those questions, we compiled this list of ways families can give back to their communities. We started by emailing dozens of Vermont-based nonproďŹ ts to ask for speciďŹ c suggestions of ways kids can support them around the holidays besides just giving money. Then we asked Kids VT readers to share ways they volunteer with their families via social media. We condensed all the great ideas we received into this nifty list. We hope it inspires your family to lend a helping hand in the coming months.

Grant someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wish.

Love your neighbor.

Prep some food.

Many organizations ask for holiday gifts on behalf of kids and families who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t aË&#x153; ord them. LUND, an organization that serves women, children and families, posts a wish list on its website and, in December, designates four days for people to bring in their unwrapped gifts, says communications director Charlotte Blend. The HUMANE SOCIETY OF CHITTENDEN COUNTY posts a wish list that includes pet food and cleaning supplies, says volunteer and community outreach manager Erin Alamed. Through Facebook, Kids VT reader Vicky Sullivan Sinagra gave us this tip: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ST. ALBANS FREE LIBRARY puts the age, gender and wish lists of children on the ďŹ replace for people to take and return with the gifts.â&#x20AC;? Check with your local library to see if it has a similar program.

Through Facebook, mom TiË&#x153; any Ovitt McCormick suggests doing good deeds around the neighborhood. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Help shovel a yard, rake leaves, stack ďŹ rewood,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Sian Leach, community outreach and volunteer specialist at the COMMITTEE ON TEMPORARY SHELTER Ë&#x203A;COTSË?has this suggestion: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a limited budget for food and only a small kitchen at our daytime drop-in shelter for adults. We rely heavily on volunteers to help us provide a healthy and nutritious lunch each and every day. Your family can prepare a meal and drop it oË&#x153; for our staË&#x153; to serve.â&#x20AC;? Theresa Snow from SALVATION FARMS, a nonproďŹ t focused on agricultural surplus management, suggests visiting the VERMONT GLEANING COLLECTIVEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website to learn about volunteer opportunities to clean, bag, process and deliver donated crops throughout the late fall and winter months.

Hold a denim drive. Collect old pairs of jeans to help keep people warm this winter by organizing a denim drive. The Blue Jeans Go Green program explains how on its website, bluejeansgogreen.org. GREEN MOUNTAIN HABITAT FOR HUMANITYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s volunteer coordinator, Allison DeVoe, says the denim is â&#x20AC;&#x153;upcycled, turned into insulation and sent to our aË&#x203A; liates for use in our homes. Habitat for Humanity receives this recycled insulation at no cost.â&#x20AC;?

GET IN TOUCH Find contact information below for the organizations and businesses mentioned.

Drop in to volunteer. Not all organizations welcome young volunteers, but BIKE RECYCLE VERMONT does. The nonproďŹ t, which makes bikes accessible to everyone in the community, holds a drop-in volunteer night every Tuesday from 5-8 p.m., says outreach director Christine Hill. â&#x20AC;&#x153;No experience with working on bikes is necessary because there are plenty of diÂ° erent hands-on projects to keep the kids and adults alike excited and engaged,â&#x20AC;? she explains. In the market for a kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bike or bike trailer? Shop at OLD SPOKES HOME, and your purchase will support the work that Bike Recycle Vermont does.

Read to a fuzzy friend. Hannah Manley, development director of HOMEWARD BOUND, Addison Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Humane Society, suggests stopping in and reading a favorite holiday story to a bunny, ferret, guinea pig or cat. While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at it, take a walk with a shelter dog and play in the leaves or snow together.

Sing it loud. Reader Daniela Michaels shared this simple idea via Facebook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We took our Girl Scout troop caroling at the local nursing homes and library last year.â&#x20AC;?

Give up the gifts.

CENTRAL VERMONT HUMANE SOCIETY centralvermonthumane.org COMMITTEE ON TEMPORARY SHELTER Ë&#x153;CO (COTS) TSÂ° cotsonline.org DEE PHYSICAL THERAPY deept.com/dee-ptdiaper-drive-2016 EVERYBODY WINS! VERMONT everybodywinsvt.org GADUEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DRY CLEANING gadues.com GREEN MOUNTAIN FARMË&#x203A;TOË&#x203A;SCHOOL FARM-TO-SCHOOL greenmountainfarmtoschool.org GREEN MOUNTAIN HABITAT FOR HUMANITY vermonthabitat.org

Donate a gift card. Sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better to donate a gift card rather than an actual gift. Charlotte Blend of LUND says the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids A Part program, which helps children with incarcerated moms, could use more of them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can only accept gift cards for those families due to the security considerations at the correctional facility,â&#x20AC;? she explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Having more gift cards donated would be really helpful.â&#x20AC;?

HOMEWARD BOUND homewardboundanimals.org

Spread the word. Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper or to legislators about the need for aÂ° ordable housing in your community and the growing homelessness among families, says Sian Leach of COTS. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Letting public oË&#x203A; cials know you are concerned about this issue often compels them to take action.â&#x20AC;? Hannah Manley from HOMEWARD BOUND recommends sharing the shelterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adoptable animals on social media to help them fi ďŹ nd a home for the holidays. And Kim Jackson, of

VERMONT ADAPTIVE SKI & SPORTS,

suggests setting up a visit from the organization at your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We do lots of fun inclusive sports demonstrations that really break down barriers and let kids be kids together, regardless of ability level,â&#x20AC;? she says.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF CHITTENDEN COUNTY chittendenhumane.org LUCYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOUSE lucyhousesite.weebly.com LUND undvt.org NORTHEAST ORGANIC FARMING ASSOCIATION OF VERMONT nofavt.org SALVATION ARMY nne.salvationarmy.org/ GTBurlington SALVATION FARMS salvationfarms.org SPECIAL OLYMPICS VERMONT specialolympicsvermont.org ST. ALBANS FREE LIBRARY stalbansfreelibrary.org VERMONT ADAPTIVE SKI & SPORTS vermontadaptive.org VERMONT FOODBANK vtfoodbank.org

VSA VERMONT vsavt.org

Ë&#x153;Â°

DO GOOD, FEEL GOOD, P.Ë&#x153;Â° Ë&#x2122;

KIDS VT

VERMONT GLEANING COLLECTIVE vermontgleaningcollective.org

NOVEMBER Ë&#x153;Â°Ë&#x203A;Ë?

VERMONT HUMANE SOCIETY, says

kids she knows have sent out birthday invitations that include items on the Humane Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wish list, asking for them in lieu of presents. Sian Leach of COTS says families could host a â&#x20AC;&#x153;potluck for COTSâ&#x20AC;? where they ask guests to make a donation to the cabin-fever fund. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Giving a cash donation to COTS pays for an unexpected need thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not covered in our budget, such as a cake for a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday or a pair of shoes for a baby just learning to walk,â&#x20AC;? Leach says.

KIDSVT.COM

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had kids donate their birthdays to the VERMONT FOODBANK,â&#x20AC;? says Judy Stermer, the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s director of communications. How does that work? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Instead of bringing gifts for the birthday boy or girl, hold a food drive and ask partygoers to bring a can of food for donation,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Or even better, ask partygoers to donate what they would have spent on a canned donation. The Vermont Foodbank turns every $1 donation into three meals for families in need.â&#x20AC;? Christina Hayward, volunteer coordinator at CENTRAL

BIKE RECYCLE VERMONT/ OLD SPOKES HOME bikerecyclevermont.org

Celebrate your Birthday at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory! All parties include:

Do Good, Feel Good

Ring the bells.

â&#x20AC;˘ A private tour â&#x20AC;˘ A Make a Friend for LifeÂŽ Bear for each child â&#x20AC;˘ Private party space staffed by a Vermont Ted d y Bear Ambassador. Ambassador.

To learn about our party packages, visit packages, visit vermontteddybear.com/birthday-parties The Vermont Teddy Bear Company 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT (802)985-3001 ext. 1700 â&#x20AC;˘ bearshop@vtbear.com Untitled-7 1

10/26/16 2:05 PM

Reader Rebecca Stazi shared via Facebook that for the past six years her family has rung bells for the SALVATION ARMY on Christmas Eve day at the University Mall in South Burlington. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have gotten progressively more â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;savvyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as the years have gone on, adding fun hats, bells and even a small external Bluetooth speaker to my iPhone for some light background music last year,â&#x20AC;? she says. Money raised from the kettle campaign goes toward the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soup kitchen and helps pay for rent, food, clothing and toys for kids.

Say thanks to the year-round helpers. GREEN MOUNTAIN HABITAT FOR HUMANITYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s volunteer coordinator,

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Allison DeVoe, says families can make thank-you cards for their construction and ReStore volunteers for the holiday season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great way to thank our volunteers in a communityoriented way.â&#x20AC;? The work done by the 130 LUND employees â&#x20AC;&#x153;mostly goes on behind the scenes, often after hours, in the far-reaching rural corners of the state, as well as in the heart of downtown Burlington.Â They Burlington.â&#x20AC;&#x17E;They do this work with open hearts and dedication that is largely unnoticed,â&#x20AC;? says communications director Charlotte Blend. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It would be very meaningful if a family baked cookies or some other holiday treat and brought them to our staff staâ&#x20AC;? to fuel them in their work during the holiday season. This applies to our hardworking colleagues at the Department for Children and Families as well.â&#x20AC;?

Give a box of diapers.

Private and Group Lessons at the UVM Indoor Pool

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2016

KIDSVT.COM

VERMONT

#SWEATWITHUS

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10/21/16 11:09 AM

Since 2007, Jason Fitzgerald of DEE PHYSICAL THERAPY has been collecting diapers to donate to families served by COTS. Throw a box of diapers into your grocery cart, then have your kids add them to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great Wall of Diapersâ&#x20AC;? at Dee PTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South Burlington, Shelburne or Hinesburg locations.

Tour the food bank. While kids under 14 are not able to volunteer in the

VERMONT FOODBANKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s warehouses in Barre, Rutland and Brattleboro, the organization invites visitors of all ages to come for a tour and learn about their work, says director of communications Judy Stermer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can help kids and families brainstorm ways to make a diâ&#x20AC;? difference on the issue of hunger,â&#x20AC;? she adds.

Wage a penny war. Maddie Monty of the NORTHEAST ORGANIC FARMING ASSOCIATION OF VERMONT sug-

gests kids encourage their school to have a penny-collecting competition to beneďŹ t the NOFA-VT Farm Share Program, which provides subsidized

Clean out your bookshelves. Collect gently used books your kids have outgrown (or read one too many times), and give them away. Several organizations would be glad to take them. VSA VERMONT, an arts and education nonproďŹ t that serves people with disabilities, can use books for their Start With the Arts program, an arts-based literacy program that reaches hundreds of Vermont preschoolers, says volunteer coordinator Heidi Swevens. And EVERYBODY WINS! VERMONT, a literacy-based mentoring organization, would appreciate like-new books for their school book carts, or new books to be used as gifts for kids in their program, says executive director Beth Wallace. Families could even attach a review of the book to their donation, Wallace suggests.

Make pet toys.

CSA shares to limited-income Vermonters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The basic idea is that each grade level or classroom commits to collecting as many pennies as possible, with an incentive (i.e., pizza party, ice cream social) for whichever grade/classroom brings in the most,â&#x20AC;? Monty explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the end, all of the proceeds from the penny war go to a charitable organization or cause.â&#x20AC;?

Bake something sweet.

Bowl for a cause.

Nutcracker

The

Saturday December 17, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ 2 & 7pm â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday December 18, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ 1 & 6pm The Flynn Center For The Performing Arts â&#x20AC;˘ Burlington, Vermont

Families with some spare time can volunteer at SPECIAL OLYMPICS VERMONTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Individual Bowling Tournament, which takes place on Sunday, December 4, at Twin City Family Fun Center in Berlin, says community development manager Caitlin Jenkins.

Tickets start at $23 802-86Flynn â&#x20AC;˘ www.flynntix.org 21 Carmichael St. Suite 203 Essex Junction, VT 05452 For Info 878-2941 www.vbts.org â&#x20AC;˘ info@vbts.org

Raid the coat closet.

NOVEMBER 2016

For close to 30 years, GADUEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DRY CLEANING has been collecting gently used coats in all sizes, cleaning them and giving them to local organizations to distribute to those in need as part of their Coats for Kids program. Drop oĹ˝ your kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; outgrown outerwear at any of Gadueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six Chittenden County locations from now through the winter.

KIDSVT.COM KIDS VT

Denee Fioravanti of South Royalton shared via Facebook that her family bakes cookies, cupcakes and pies, then delivers them to the local food pantry, shelters and senior center. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This has been very rewarding, and a great lesson for the kids around the holidays,â&#x20AC;? she writes. Alternatively, whip up some treats and have a bake sale to beneďŹ t an organization like VERMONT ADAPTIVE SKI & SPORTS, a Killington-based organization that provides recreational opportunities to individuals with disabilities. Or, instead of cookies, make a batch of healthy dog or cat treats for your local animal shelter.

Dogs and cats need toys, too. LUCYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOUSE, an Essex-based nonproďŹ t dedicated to keeping pets in their homes, will hold two gatherings where participants will make dog and cat toys and holiday gift bags to give to food shelves. Participants are encouraged to bring a can of pet food or a treat for the gift bags, and clean socks to make catnip sock toys, says executive director, Jan EllisClements. The pet toy parties are on November 12 and December 10, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (contact Ellis-Clements at ellisclem3@aol.com for location).

k2v-VBTS1116.indd 1

10/27/16 1:37 PM

Keep It Local Support Vermont businesses with these 10 holiday gift ideas BY ALISON NOVAK

Looking for the perfect one-ofa-kind gift for your kids? Want to support craftspeople and entrepreneurs from the Green Mountain State? We’ve got you covered on both fronts. Our holiday gift guide features 10 fun items from Vermont-based companies sure to make your holidays a little happier and brighter this year.

These warm winter staples, made from breathable, moisturewicking fabric, were created in 2007 by Vermont ski racer Corinne Prevot when she was a high school student at Burke Mountain Academy. Demand quickly grew, and, while attending Middlebury College, Prevot worked closely with her mom to grow the business. Kids’ hats and neck warmers come in an array of fun patterns and are manufactured in the Northeast Kingdom. Order online at skida.com or visit the company’s retail shop at 16 Kilburn St. in Burlington’s South End.

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER ˜°˛˝

KIDSVT.COM

˜˜

Cozy hats ($32) and neck warmers ($24) from Skida, Burlington/Glover

Wooden treats ($25) from Pleasant Ranch, Burlington

In 2014, woodworker and drummer Steve Hadeka started Pleasant Ranch — named for the Burlington street where he lives — selling modern birdhouses, bottle openers, clocks and more. His ice cream sandwiches and S’mores — made from walnut, maple and mahogany — are the perfect addition to any toy kitchen. He also makes a wooden camera with a removable magnetic fl ﬂash and a lens that spins. Find his work at pleasantranch. com and at the Burlington City Arts Holiday Market on December 16 and 17.

Sandwich wraps ($10) from Bee’s Wrap, Bristol

This reusable wrap was created by mother of three Sara Kaeck in 2012 as a healthier, more sustainable way to store food. In the early days, Kaeck worked from her Bristol home, handpainting a coating of beeswax, organic jojoba oil and tree resin on every wrap. Though the company has grown, the wraps are still manufactured in Bristol by a sta° of women. Pretty up your kids’ packed lunches by ordering them at beeswrap.com, or ﬁnd them at local retailers including Healthy Living Market & Café, City Market/Onion River Co-op and Gardener’s Supply.

PinBox 3000 cardboard pinball machine ($40 for the base model) from Cardboard Teck Instantute, Burlington Quirky friends and makers Ben T. Matchstick and Pete Talbott dreamed up the ﬁrst cardboard tabletop pinball game at Langdon Street Café in Montpelier in 2006. The system takes 45 to 90 minutes to assemble, with no tools required, and can be customized with ramps, spinners, black holes, castles and more. Buy one and you’ll also get access to online how-to videos, free downloadable templates and cut-and-paste graphics. Find it at pinbox3000.com.

Feather wands ($20) from Mountain Honey Clothier, Rutland

Jumbo peg dolls ($17.50) from Zooble, Newbury

Zooble’s toys are manufactured from American-made materials by a small team in Orange County, Vermont. The chunky peg dolls are made using beech wood and nontoxic paint and are great for kids under age 3 because they don’t include any small pieces. The family-run company — which also makes bendy dollhouse dolls, felt castles and rainbow mushrooms that encourage imaginative play — was a ﬁnalist in the Martha Stewart American Made Awards in 2014. Find Zooble’s one-of-a-kind toys at etsy.com/shop/zooble.

These whimsical magic wands for toddlers and preschoolers are handmade by Rutland-based seamstress Deidre Lozier, who started her children’s brand in 2014. “I love creating these wands,” says Lozier, who also makes children’s bonnets, moccasins, clothing and toys. “I’ll sit down at my machine with a pile of scraps, selvages, and miscellaneous bits and pieces and dream up each wand as I go. I’ve never made two identical ones.” Find her goods at mountainhoneyclothier.com.

Customized pet onesies ($35) from the Green Egg, Stowe

Felt toys from Petits Cadeaux ($2-55), Burlington

Kate Taylor started her Burlington-based company when she was an eighth-grade student at the Lake Champlain Waldorf School in Shelburne. Every item — from felt animals and acorns to whimsical play food like sushi and hot dogs — is made by Taylor and her mother, Linda Post. Now a mother to an 18-monthold son, Taylor has expanded her product line to include baby toys and mobiles, and is happy to do custom orders. Find her at etsy. com/shop/ petitscadeaux, the Orchard Valley Waldorf School Holiday Market in Montpelier on November 19, and the Lake Champlain Waldorf School Holiday Fair on December 2 and 3.

Floral leggings ($17) and baby gowns ($24) from Vermont Craft Mom, Lake Elmore

Experiential gifts

Consider giving your kids a family membership to ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Montshire Museum of Science, Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, Shelburne Museum or another special destination where you can spend quality time together. Or purchase a season pass to Vermont State Parks at vtstateparks.com so you can enjoy the great outdoors as a family.

NOVEMBER ˜°˛˝ KIDS VT

˜°

When stay-at-home mom Heather Courchaine’s son was 6 months old, she decided she wanted a sewing machine. A year and a half later, she’s embraced her craftiness and now runs an Etsy shop that sells stretchy leggings and knit gowns in funky prints, along with rompers, dresses, sweatshirts and joggers up to size 6T. Get the cute duds at etsy.com/shop/vermontcraftmom.

KIDSVT.COM

Love your kid and your pet? Send a photo of your prized pooch or favorite feline to Stowe-based company the Green Egg and they’ll create a one-of-a-kind cotton onesie or T-shirt featuring the animal’s likeness. The company also sells clothing emblazoned with astronauts, tractors and roller skates, handmade Star Wars crayons and fabric dolls. Check out these items at etsy.com/shop/thegreenegg or thegreeneggshop.com.

KIM SCAFURO

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2016

KIDSVT.COM

Parting Ways T

he decision to leave my partner didn’t come after one massive fig t. And if our separation was waiting in the wings, I wasn’t aware of it. Just last year we were raising a then-2-year-old, all bubbly, inquisitive and joyful, and had entered the summer with ambitions of sharing our love of the outdoors with her. We bought a canoe and planned family getaways. But trouble was lurking just below the surface. We’d gone to three different counselors in our four-year partnership and couldn’t seem to escape our cyclical problems. I was in a fundamentally unhappy place and needed to get out. I spent a few days reviewing our finances o see if I could afford an apartment before I told my partner, through sobs, that I thought I had to leave him. His

response dealt the deathblow to our relationship: “I’m not going to fig t for this.” Though we considered ourselves married, and even had a celebration for our partnership, we were in an unmarried union that produced a child. According to state data, situations like ours are not uncommon. More than 2,000 Vermont families break up each year, according to filin s in family court, and the number of those families involving unmarried parents is on the rise. In fi cal year 2015, half of family court cases related to child support and custody involved unmarried couples, up from 45 percent in FY 2011. Court documents represent only the fi st step in a long and complicated process. Logistically, it’s not easy to separate when everything from car payments to childcare tuition is intertwined with

Navigating family after parents separate BY JESS WISLOSKI

another caregiver. As a newly single parent, I found support hard to come by. A year after my separation, I still sometimes feel like I’m starting over. But by sharing a piece of my story, I hope to offer insight on what’s out there for other separating parents — and to let them know they are not alone.

A Home of Your Own Transitioning from one household to two is like trying to organize a funeral while grieving a painful loss — only the process is prolonged. Figuring out who will live where can be complex. In Vermont, high housing prices and low wages complicate matters. At fi st, my ex moved into the basement of our house and we made it work for the month it took

A year after my separation, I still sometimes feel like I’m starting over.

What not to say to recently separated parents: • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • •

• • • • •

I just worry about your kids. But he’s such a good person. You were the perfect couple. You seemed to get along so well. Why doesn’t anything connect for you? I liked her so much! Anything starting with “I remember at your wedding…” What did you do? I told you not to marry her. What did you ever see in him, anyway? You’re going to work it out and get back together, right? I don’t think you should leave him. Who knows what will happen to you? You might get cancer and have to die alone. Just don’t become a lesbian. I don’t think that’s the answer. Every marriage goes through difficult times. I knew she would do this one day. It’s immoral to be this honest. Have affairs. My husband and I prayed our way through our troubles. You are making gays and lesbians look bad. Here we are fighting or marriage equality and you are getting a divorce? Marriage is hard work. You’re not going to find anyone better than her. But he’s such a good parent! That’s just not how we did things in my day. Just think how quickly he will get scooped up ... doesn’t that make you feel jealous?

PARTING WAYS, P.26 »

What do recently separated parents need most? A supportive network of friends and family. If you want to help a recently separated friend, offer to take the kids for a playdate or plan a pizza night, especially when a parent is moving or needs adult time to talk or meet with a mediator. Or shower the family with words of love and support to emphasize that some relationships in the children’s lives aren’t changing. Or keep a read on what’s going on with the family, even if you have mixed feelings about how the relationship ended. What not to do? Opine on the state of the world or the institution of marriage. Shut someone out completely, especially if they have the kids. Disparage a family’s decision or circumstance, especially with little ears around. Even when you think you’re being supportive, your words might not be. I polled separated men and women about the unwelcome comments they’ve received from well-meaning friends and family. Take note: If you are even thinking of uttering these phrases, best to keep it to yourself.

KIDS VT

Couples who need help solving the living-arrangement puzzle — or just talking with each other — can use a mediator. Mediators act as neutral facilitators in finding ag eement on everything from kids’ schedules to dealing with debt. And in Vermont, many will help couples write their parental rights

Say This, Not That

NOVEMBER 2016

Split Communication

and responsibilities form (also called parental stipulation) — the legal document outlining the parameters of the parent-child contact. Winooski-based divorce mediator Susan Fay recommends seeking outside assistance, and the earlier, the better. Without a neutral person to help them sort through things, she said, “most people get very entrenched in their sense of right and wrong. And they get entrenched in their anger.” The Vermont Superior Court Family Mediation Program mandates that couples in high-conflict cases attend mediation. But parents who don’t fit this classifi ation can use the program to find a mediator as well. Ours was dogged about staying neutral within our sessions yet allowed us each to vent beforehand about anything that might have prevented us from keeping an open mind. Enabled by the presence of a third, unrelated party, my ex and I were able to create a dedicated space and time when it was safe for us to talk about anything. In Vermont, courts also require divorcing parents entering the filing p ocess to take a fourhour class developed by University of Vermont professors called Coping with Separation and Divorce (COPE). It’s designed to help improve communication and offer parents insight into how to best serve their children through the separation process. Fay helped develop the COPE curriculum at UVM Extension in 1993. Only divorcing couples are required by law to attend COPE, but the class is available to those in unmarried separations as well. My ex and I were told about COPE by a counselor, and finally went when our mediation hit a standstill. At that point, our communication was limited to texts or emails related to practical issues like pickups or drop-offs. The class suggested waiting a year after the split to introduce children to a new partner, or after six months of dating (to avoid furthering instability); to have the same message and wording to explain your breakup and have a group conversation with the whole family; to avoid badmouthing the other parent in front of the child; and to keep a frequent and consistent presence in the child’s life. After we absorbed the lessons of the course separately, communication got easier. We both heard the message: Your child’s needs come fi st. One constant theme in COPE was that staying mum about what’s happening isn’t a great policy. Sarah Oemcke, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and art therapist, explained that kids make their own assumptions. “The kids absorb the feeling and the mood of what’s happening in their environment. Even if they might not be exhibiting distress, they most likely are trying to figu e things out,” she said. “And if they’re left to their own devices as kids, they’re most likely going to be wrong.” “I always say honesty is the best policy,” she added. “Honestly you’re not going to talk to your 3-year-old about Daddy cheated. It’s: What can they understand? And how can they get that this is not their fault?”

KIDSVT.COM

me to find a place I could a ord. I had been the breadwinner but, because I initiated our breakup, felt I should be the one to move out. I prepared my daughter weeks in advance by telling her at bedtime that I was going to be living in a different home, to which she would quietly nod and agree. Now, when I ask her how she felt back then, she says, bluntly, “Sad.” She also expressed that it didn’t make sense to her until she saw my apartment. When I moved, we divided up our nights. Online research suggested that younger children want more frequent contact with both parents, so we tried to keep an every-other-day schedule, which was chaotic. After starting mediation we tried a 2-2-3 schedule: one parent has two nights; the next parent two; and the fi st parent, three. Then it flip . Melissa, a divorced mom from Richmond, recalled how she and her ex shared custody of their young children right after the split, while he was living with friends. “He would take them after school and bring them home [to her house] for bath and bed,” she said. When he later moved in with a family friend, he had them 50-50 for overnights, and they kept custody shared. Four years later, he lives two hours away and takes the now 7- and 10-year-olds three weekends a month. Sometimes parents choose to reserve the family home for whoever is with the children, an arrangement known as “bird’s nest custody.” My ex and I decided against that option because, in order to afford it, we’d have to share the non-nest home, and we felt our unresolved arguments would follow us there. I found an affordable two-story apartment with two bedrooms and a deck that was just a mile from the house my ex and I purchased together. Anxious as I was to introduce my toddler to my new home, I was heartened to hear her bragging to a visiting friend on her fi st night in the apartment: “This is my mommy’s house. Didn’t you know? She has her own house.” She was more convinced than I that the shabby fl t was a home.

What you drive reflects what drives you.

Parting Ways

CONTINUED FROM P.25

Shared Responsibility

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Fay said one of the biggest stumbling blocks in amicable negotiations is deciding how to share physical custody of a child, noting that past resentment about the division of duties in chores, childcare and planning, or perceived financial st ain often come into play. My partner and I agreed to a 50-50 physical share on our own, but there were many times when we couldn’t communicate verbally without becoming hostile. To avoid any confusion, we decided to use Google Calendar to organize pickups and drop-offs and a y special needs, like field trips and hai cuts. When stress levels rise, we default to email and text communication. For ideas, we polled friends who’d been raised by divorced parents for scheduling tactics that worked. Websites like Parents and Custody X Change can help in finding chedules that work best for the age of your kids. Despite the drama we brought to our sessions (I stormed out on one of them), our mediator kept praising us for our “commitment to work together.” Misplaced as her kudos felt to me, she repeated the mantra that everyone from case managers to children’s therapists seem to agree on: If a judge has to make the decision about your share of the physical responsibility, nobody will be happy with the results.

A Time to Grieve

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It seems that any time I’m around mutual friends of my ex, I feel overwhelmed by how awry things went. Like the time last summer when I burst out crying at a friend’s barbecue because the clutch of toddlers running around made me acutely aware that my daughter was with her dad. With separation, grieving seems to be an ongoing process. COPE’s instructors were clear that when parents separate, everyone, including the children, can suffer stages of grief no different than if there had been a death in the family. However, when it comes to support, there just aren’t many local resources. The one support group I found was DivorceCare, a 13-week program run by Essex Alliance Church. The session I attended was all about anger. I wanted so much to love the group, but, as a nonbeliever, I couldn’t relate

to the scripture-laced videos and Biblical references. I met one mom, Barbara D., at the session I went to. “With all the uncertainty that came out of the whole divorce process,” Barbara said, “it’s nice to have a structure.” After watching a video on passive-aggressive anger, she confessed to feeding her 9-month-old son prunes the night before her ex picks him up.

When stress levels rise, we default to email and text communication. Jeff ess, a COPE facilitator who does relationship coaching at Milton Family Community Center, said that, 15 years after his divorce, he is still caught off gua d sometimes. After their divorce, his fi st wife remarried. Then, in 2015, she died of cancer, and it was the words on her tombstone that gave him a jolt. “You can imagine how difficult i was to see a stone with my ex-wife and her new husband — with our kids as ‘our beloved children’ with their dates of birth,” Hess said. “I had to basically bite my tongue and look at it and go, ‘OK.’” I’m often sad on holidays or during family visits, whether my daughter is there or not. I’m still grieving the loss of the happy family unit I had envisioned, with two parents together giving love to their child. There’s no way I could have known what leaving meant, but here’s what I discovered: My ex has grown into an amazing father and is capable of being more attentive to our daughter than I ever thought possible. I’ve also learned that no one else is responsible for my happiness. Statistics show that I’m likely to re-partner within fi e years, but it’s not my priority. Right now, my focus is teaching my daughter self-love and fulfillme t — and to lead by example. K For more info about the Vermont Family Court Mediation Program, call 828-6551 or visit vermontjudiciary.org/gtc/ Family/Mediation.aspx.

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Planetary Gods and Goddesses: Author Kelley Hunter shares stories of recent planetoid discoveries in the far reaches of our solar system. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581. Red Clover Group for Homeschooled Students: Budding book lovers enjoy bibliophile activities. Grades K-3. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Nature & Science

Story Time at ECHO: See November 2.

Theater

‘Puss in Boots’: In this adaption of a classic tale, a cat determined to make his master a prosperous man gets the audience chuckling. Ages 6 and up. Warren Town Hall, 7 p.m. $10-15; $40 per family of four. Info, 767-4903.

10 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Preschool Art Drop-In: See November 3.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See November 1, 10:45-11:55 a.m. Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1.

Community

Mother Up! Monthly Meet-up: Families discusses the realities of climate change and what that means on a local level. Vegetarian meal and childcare for ages 3 and under provided. All ages. Unitarian Universalist Society, Burlington, 5:307 p.m. Free; RSVP. Info, 999-2820.

Education

Games

Colchester Lego Club: See November 3.

Library & Books

Lego Thursdays: See November 3. Library Legos: Aspiring architects engage in construction projects with their peers. St. Albans Free Library, second Thursday of every month, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507. Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See November 3. ‘Unconditional: Older Dogs, Deeper Love’: Photographer Jane Sobel Klonsky, accompanied by two retired police dogs, shares her story of capturing the twilight of dogs’ lives and their relationship to people they love. All ages. Phoenix Books Burlington, 7-8 p.m. $3; free for children. Info, 448-3350.

Music

Williston Music for Preschoolers: See November 3.

Theater

‘Puss in Boots’: In this adaption of a classic tale, a cat determined to make his master a prosperous man gets the audience chuckling. Ages 6 and up. Tunbridge Town Hall, 7 p.m. $10-15; $40 per family of four. Info, 767-4903.

11 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Family Wheel Drop-In: See November 4.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1. 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Education

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

Food Kids in the Kitchen: Mac and Cheese Pancakes: Children’s culinary dreams come true as they measure, mix and munch homemade cheesy delights served up with real maple syrup. Healthy Living Market & Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20. Info, 863-2569.

Games

Killington Magic: The Gathering: See November 4. Lego Club: See November 4.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math Story Time: See November 4. Family Story Time: See November 4. Friday Free for All: See November 4.

Movies

Movie Matinee: Families relax with a film and free refreshments. Ages 8 and up. Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 422-9765.

Music Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See November 4.

Nature & Science Montshire Unleashed: An Evening for Adults: The museum opens its doors after hours so grown-ups can let their inner curiosity go wild. Beer, wine and food available for purchase. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6-9 p.m. $15; free for members. Info, 649-2200.

Theater

‘Puss in Boots’: In this adaption of a classic tale, a cat determined to make his master a prosperous man gets the audience chuckling. Ages 6 and up. Plainfield own Hall Opera House, 7 p.m. $10-15; $40 per family of four. Info, 767-4903.

12 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Kids Craft: Aspiring artists lend their talented hands to a tree-inspired activity. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Lego Family Afternoon: The entire family busts out the building blocks for solo or team creations. Grades K and up with accompanying adult. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 1-3 p.m. $15 per adult/child; $5 each additional child; preregister; space is limited. Info, 253-8358. Milton Pre-Christmas Craft Show: 70 local crafters, a kids’ room, a raffl and refreshments make for a merry time. All ages. Milton High School, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free; bring a nonperishable item for the Milton Food Shelf. River of Light Lantern-Making Workshop: Families craft magical willow-and-tissue-paper lights in preparation for Waterbury’s River of Light Community Lantern Procession. Bring a bag lunch. Ages 6 and up. Children ages 6-8 must be accompanied by an adult. Thatcher Brook Primary School, Waterbury, 10 a.m.-noon & 1-3 p.m. Free; preregistration required. Info, 778-0334. Shelburne Craft School Saturday Drop-In: See November 5.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

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, 337-8632.

Education

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 2. Preschool Science Fair: This drop-in science, technology, engineering and mathematicsoriented afternoon offers hands-on activities, including a marble run, building with toothpicks, a sink and flo t experiment and parenting information. Geared to children ages 3-7; all welcome. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 586-9683.

Fairs & Festivals

Mercy Bazaar: This festive holiday sale features canned goods prepared by the Sisters, plus a substantial selection of household and knitted items, books, fudge, toys and holiday decorations. All ages. Mater Christi School, Burlington, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 658-5494.

NOVEMBER 2016

KIDSVT.COM

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

St. Albans Nurturing Father Program: See November 3.

KIDS VT

Thinking about your child’s future? At Mater Christi School, we are too. Pre-School through 8th. Grade Call us for a private tour 802-658-3992 WWW.MCSCHOOL.ORG Untitled-16 1

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Food

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

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: Local farmers, artisans and producers o er fresh and prepared foods, crafts and more in a bustling indoor marketplace with food and live music. All ages. UVM Davis Student Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 310-5172. Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See November 5. Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See November 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Games

Health & Fitness

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See November 5. Waitsfield Ski and Skate Sale: Families gear up for winter sports. Consignment preregistration Monday, November 7, 7:30-9:30 a.m.; drop o Friday, November 11, 4-7 p.m. All ages. Waitsfield Elementary School, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free; proceeds benefit Waitsfield Elementary School. Info, 496-3643.

Library & Books

Second Saturdays: This child-friendly afternoon, a collaboration between the Norwich Public Library and the Norwich Bookstore, celebrates reading with various themed activities. Check norwichlibrary.org for location. 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1184. Spanish Musical Playgroup: Rhymes, books, songs and crafts en español entertain niños. Snacks provided. Ages 5 and under. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Movies

Family Movie Matinee: Families snuggle in to see a big-screen PG-rated ﬂick and savor snacks. All ages. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Corvid Community Naturalists: This monthly gathering explores Burlington’s urban wilds through the seasons. Bring a notebook, a writing implement and your curiosity. Open to the community; ages 5 and up. Rock Point, Burlington, 9 a.m.-noon. Suggested donation $10; $20 per family. Info, 557-7127. Moonlit Wagon Rides: Giddyup! Visitors take a rolling tour under the night sky, then head back to the farm’s Education Center for light snacks and activities. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 5:15, 6, 6:45 & 7:30 p.m. $7-10; free for children under 3; preregister. Info, 985-8686. Tour the Cosmos: See November 5. Wagon-Ride Weekends: See November 5. COURTESY OF ENCHANTMENT THEATRE

Scholastic Chess Tournament: Checkmate! Players of all abilities sit down for a strategy game, focusing on fun and sportsmanship. Ages 5-18. Berlin Elementary School, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $8 per player; $15 per family; free to spectate. Info, 223-1948.

Nature & Science

Theater

HopStop: Karim Nagi: This Egyptian native introduces the audience to Middle-Eastern instruments and dances, encouraging active audience participation. All ages. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H., 11 a.m. Free. Info, 603-646-2422. Kids VT Spectacular Spectacular Auditions: Creative kiddos try out for a spot in the December 10th Spectacular Spectacular youth talent show. Ages 5-13. Preregister to receive a time slot. Higher Ground, South Burlington, Free. ‘Puss in Boots’: In this adaption of a classic tale, a cat determined to make his master a prosperous man gets the audience chuckling. Ages 6 and up. Hannaford Career Center, Middlebury, 2 & 7 p.m. $10-15; $40 per family of four. Info, 767-4903.

˜° SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See November 1, 12:15-1:30 p.m. Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 10-11:30 a.m. Pregnancy & Baby Expo: More than 40 vendors showcase their services related to pregnancy, birth and parenting, complete with demos and giveaways. All ages. Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $5; free for children. Info, 363-9597.

Romping Rabbits London-born author Beatrix Potter developed an appreciation of documenting the natural world during childhood vacations to Scotland and England’s Lake District. Potter’s love of nature and art come together in PETER RABBIT TALES , a whimsical production from Philadelphia-based Enchantment Theatre, featuring mesmerizingly realistic animal masks. In addition to Peter and Benjamin Bunny, the cast includes the adorable Flopsy Bunnies, washerwoman Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, a grumpy badger and the sly Squirrel Nutkin. With stunning scenery that celebrates Potter’s adoration of the countryside, this musical production turns her marvelous imaginary world into reality. ‘PETER RABBIT TALES’: Tuesday, November 29, 6 p.m., at the Flynn MainStage in Burlington. $15-25. Grades pre-K-6. Info, 863-5966. ﬂynntix.org

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November 25–27 11 a.m.–4 p.m. KIDSVT.COM KIDS VT

STORE SALE • LIVE MUSIC • DAILY ART ACTIVITIES • WAGON RIDES • FOOD • FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

NOVEMBER 2016

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Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See November 6. Family Tennis Drop-In: See November 6. Waitsfield Ski and Skate Sale: See November 12.

Nature & Science

Tour the Cosmos: See November 5. Wagon-Ride Weekends: See November 5.

Theater

‘Puss in Boots’: In this adaption of a classic tale, a cat determined to make his master a prosperous man gets the audience chuckling. Ages 6 and up. Little Theater, Woodstock, 2 p.m. $1015; $40 per family of four. Info, 767-4903.

14 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Crafternoon: Art lovers make marvelous masterpieces. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420. Crafts for Kids: Clever kiddos pursue artsy projects. Ages 5-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Baby & Maternity smile power ™

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

Diastasis Care and Repair: Expecting mothers experiencing abdominal muscle separation get professional guidance for relief and repair. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953. Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 5:45-7 p.m. Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See November 2. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER 2016 KIDS VT

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

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Education

French for Middle Schoolers: See November 1.

Games

Drop-In Games: The Teen Group takes command of the tabletops. Grades 3 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See November 1.

Library & Books

Read to a Dog: See November 1. Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See November 1. Spanish Musical Kids: See November 1. TinkerBelles: See November 1.

Music

Preschool Music: See November 1.

Parenting

Nurturing Parent Program: See November 8.

Nurturing Parent Program: See November 7. One-on-One Tutoring: See November 2.

Library & Books

ECHO LEAHY CENTER FOR LAKE CHAMPLAIN, BURLINGTON

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See November 7. Essex Lego Club: See November 7. Pajama Story Time: Bedtime Yoga: Flannelclad or costumed wee ones bring their stuffed pals for simple yoga poses, seasonal tales and a bedtime snack. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Stories with Megan: See November 7.

Nature & Science

Audubon Nature Playgroup: See November 7. Robin’s Nest Nature Playgroup: See November 7.

15 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts Visit our website vtdayschool.org for more information. Email: info@vtdayschool.org. Phone: 495-5150 • 6701 Shelburne Road, Shelburne

Breastfeeding Café: Moms 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, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 349-3825. Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See November 1. Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1.

Ongoing Exhibits

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See November 7. Williston Music for Preschoolers: See November 3, 11 a.m.

Sunday, November 6 @ 3 pm

Baby & Maternity

Education

Music

Join us for our Fall Open House

State Art Museum, 10 a.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 518-564-2474. Tech Craft Tuesday: See November 1.

Drop-In Preschool Art: See November 1. Plattsburgh Preschool Story Hour: Aspiring art connoisseurs and their caregivers listen to a picture book, look at original works and create a project to take home. Ages 3-5. Plattsburgh

Info, 864-1848 ‘The Zula Patrol: Mission Weather’: Colorful galactic fact-gatherers answer kids’ questions about weather and how it works, learning about clouds, precipitation, wind, temperature and more. All ages. Through January 1. FAIRBANKS MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM, WHITE RIVER JUNCTION Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, 1-5 p.m. (open Mondays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., April-October) X-Ray Vision: Fish Inside and Out: This temporary exhibit from the Smithsonian Institute illustrates the history of evolution through the translucent images of ancient fish, in an elegant union of science and art. Through 2017. MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, NORWICH Info, 649-2200 Dinosaur Revolution: Admirers of these ancient animals travel back in time to mimic walking and flying as enormous extinct reptiles, in this combined exhibit and interactive maze. Through December 1. All ages.

the trimmings mixes with socializing to satisfy the community. All ages. Milton Middle School, 4:30-7 p.m. Free; donations appreciated. Info, 893-3210.

°˛ WEDNESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See See Dr. First videos November 1, 5:45-7:15 p.m. “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org. Mom and Baby Yoga: See NoEducation vember 2. St. Albans Nurturing Father Mother’s Gathering: See NovemProgram: See November 3. ber 2. Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See NoGames vember 2. Colchester Lego Club: See November 3. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See NovemJericho Lego Club: See November 3, 4:30-5:30 ber 1, 12:15-1:15 p.m. p.m.

Education

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 2. Reading Buddies: See November 2, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Food

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

Games

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See November 2.

Library & Books

Author Abbie Bowker: The author of Woolly Bear Winter reads and rallies little ones in an art activity. Ages 3-9; parent participation may be required. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. Lego Club: See November 2. Little One & Me Circle Time: Tiny tykes team together for movement, songs, play and snacks. Ages 5 and under. Jericho Town Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4686. Pajama Story Time: Small ones cozy up for bedtime tales, cookies and milk. Ages 18 months-5 years. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660. Read to McKenzie: See November 2.

Movies

Library & Books

Books Come to Life: This active class, led by a literacy professional, combines reading and movement. Ages 3-6. Waterbury Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Lego Thursdays: See November 3. PJ Story Hour: Tykes in nightwear nestle together for nursery rhymes, snacks and crafts. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507. Read to a Dog: See November 3. Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See November 3.

Music

Williston Music for Preschoolers: See November 3.

Nature & Science

Let’s Talk Turkeys: What do gobblers eat for Thanksgiving? Preschoolers and their parents hit the trail to learn more about these wild birds. Ages 3-5 with adult. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

‘Puss in Boots’: In this adaption of a classic tale, a cat determined to make his master a prosperous man gets the audience chuckling. Ages 6 and up. Vergennes Opera House, 7 p.m. $10-15; $40 per family of four. Info, 767-4903.

Nature & Science

18 FRIDAY

Parenting

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

17 THURSDAY Preschool Art Drop-In: See November 3.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Community

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

Your child. Your orthodontist.

Education

Bedtime Math’s Crazy 8s: See November 4.

Games

Killington Magic: The Gathering: See November 4. Lego Club: See November 4.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math Story Time: See November 4.

ORTHODONTICS

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Milton Community Dinner: Turkey with all

Baby & Maternity

KIDS VT

Community

Family Wheel Drop-In: See November 4.

NOVEMBER 2016

Babywearing Playgroup: Moms with tiny tots share stories and socialize. All ages. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 1011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 899-0339. Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See November 1. 10:45-11:55 a.m. Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1.

Arts & Crafts

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Theater

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

Story Time at ECHO: See November 2.

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Family Story Time: See November 4. Friday Free for All: See November 4. Jiggity Jog: A musical meet-up includes singing, dancing and instrument playing. Ages 2-5. South Burlington Community Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080. Songs & Stories With Matthew: See November 4.

Movies

Family Movie: Viewers enjoy a family-friendly film while easting on free popcorn. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See November 4. Music With Robert: See November 4.

Theater

‘Puss in Boots’: In this adaption of a classic tale, a cat determined to make his master a prosperous man gets the audience chuckling. Ages 6 and up. Spice Studio, Rochester, 7 p.m. $10-15; $40 per family of four. Info, 767-4903.

19 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Shelburne Craft School Saturday Drop-In: See November 5.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Education

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 2.

Fairs & Festivals

Orchard Valley Holiday Market: This Waldorfinspired bazaar features fine c afts, body care products, books and locally made gifts, with savory soup and snacks for sale. All ages. Vermont College of Fine Arts, Montpelier, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 456-7400.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: See November 12. Capital City Thanksgiving Farmers Market: More than 50 farmers, food producers and craftspeople offer root veggies, savory baked goods, maple syrup and much more at this off-season celebration of locavorism. All ages. Montpelier High School, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 223-2958. Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See November 5.

Norwich Winter Farmers Market: See November 5. Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See November 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Games Essex Junction International Game Day: Teens command the game boards and teach younger kids new skills. All ages welcome. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. Fairfax International Games Day: Tabletop pastimes amuse participants of all ages. Fairfax Community Library, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420. Hardwick International Games Day: The library’s tables get monopolized by players and their pieces. All ages. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 472-5948.

Story Times

Early-literacy skills get special attention during these read-aloud sessions. Some locations provide additional activities such as music, crafts or foreign-language instruction. MONDAY Barre Children’s Story Hour: Aldrich Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-7550. Colchester Preschool Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660. Essex Drop-In Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313. Hyde Park Story Time: Lanpher Memorial Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 888-4628. Northfield C ildren’s Story Time: Brown Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 485-4621. Richmond Baby Lap Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036. Shelburne Story Time: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124. St. Albans Story Hour: St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507. Stowe Story Times for 2-3-Year-Olds: Stowe Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Waitsfield Story Time: Joslin Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 496-4205. Waterbury Baby & Toddler Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Woodstock Baby Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2016

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TUESDAY Alburgh Story Hour: Alburgh Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 796-6077. Barre Children’s Story Hour: See Monday. Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660. Craftsbury Story Time: Craftsbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 586-9683. East Barre Story Time: East Barre Branch Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 476-5118. Essex Junction Baby & Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Essex Junction Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956. Fairfax Preschool Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 849-2420. Highgate Story Time: Highgate Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970. Hinesburg Youngsters Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 9:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878. Lyndonville Story Time: Cobleigh Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 626-5475. Milton Infant Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Montpelier Story Time: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338. South Burlington Tiny Tot Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:15 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080. Williston Story Time: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Woodstock Preschool Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295. WEDNESDAY Barnes & Noble Saturday Morning Story Time: Barnes & Noble, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001. Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday, 10 a.m. Hyde Park Story Time: See Monday, 10 a.m. Lyndonville Story Time: See Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. Marshfield Story Time & P aygroup: Jaquith Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581. Milton Rhythm & Movement Toddler Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Norwich Story Time: Norwich Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 649-1184. Quechee Story Time: Quechee Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 295-1232.

Randolph Preschool Story Time: Kimball Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073. Richmond Story Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036. South Burlington Baby Book Time: South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080. Storytime at Phoenix Books Rutland: Phoenix Books Rutland, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 855-8078. Stowe Story Time for 3-5-Year-Olds: Stowe Free Library, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Swanton Storytime: Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-7656. Warren Preschool Story & Enrichment Hour: Warren Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 595-2582. THURSDAY Bristol Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366. Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday. Franklin Story Time: Haston Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505. Hinesburg Youngsters Story Time: See Tuesday. Northfield C ildren’s Story Time: See Monday. Rutland Story Time: Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860. Shelburne Musical Story Time: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124. St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday. Vergennes Story Time: Bixby Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 877-2211. Waterbury Preschool Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Westford Story Time: Westford Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-5639. FRIDAY Brandon Story Time: Brandon Free Public Library, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 247-8230. Craftsbury Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

Enosburg Mommy & Me Story Hour: Enosburgh Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2328. Essex Musical Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313. Georgia Preschool Story Time: Georgia Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 524-4643. Huntington Story Time: Huntington Public Library, 10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 434-4583. Killington Storytime: Sherburne Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 422-9765. Lincoln Story Time: Lincoln Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2665. Milton Preschool Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday. Randolph Toddler Story Time: Kimball Public Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073. South Burlington Pajamarama: Barnes & Noble, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8001. St. Johnsbury Story Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 748-8291. Stowe Baby & Toddler Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Swanton Storytime: See Wednesday. SATURDAY Barre Story Time: Next Chapter Bookstore, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-3114. Burlington Story Time at Phoenix Books: Phoenix Books, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 448-3350. Colchester Saturday Drop-In Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5660. Enosburg Story Hour: Enosburgh Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2328. Essex Whole Book Approach Storytime: Phoenix Books, 11 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 872-7111. Franklin Walk-in Story Hour: Haston Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505. Milton Drop-In Saturday Storytime: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See November 5. Westford Turkey Trot: Families seeking fresh air choose from a 10K or 3K race on rural roads, with medals for age-group winners and homebaked treats for sale. A 100-yard Tot Trot is geared toward the littlest athletes. Race begins 10 a.m. Westford School, 8:30 a.m. $12 for preregistration; $15 on race day. Info, 878-5804.

Library & Books

American Girl Tea Party: Young ladies in fancy dress enjoy an afternoon of period crafts, games and refreshments, with or without dolls. Adult required. Milton Public Library, 1-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644. Cleo the Therapy Dog: See November 5.

Music

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

Nature & Science

Aiken K-12 Maker Faire: Junior engineers exhibit their work, and middle and high school students demonstrate their savvy solutions to a physics problem. Grades K-12. Davis Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Hawks, Owls & Falcons: Avian aﬁcionados drop in and meet live raptors. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5-6; preregistration encouraged. Info, 985-8686. Tour the Cosmos: See November 5. Wagon-Ride Weekends: See November 5.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: Charles Dickens’ beloved classic tale of redemption brings together whirling ghosts, magical music and a cast that includes 10 local children. Ages 8 and up. Northern Stage, White River Junction, 7:30 p.m. $15-65. Info, 296-7000. ‘Cinderella, the Musical’: Young dramatists from the Very Merry Theatre take center stage in a humorous adaptation of this classic fairytale. All ages. Waterbury Public Library, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. ‘Puss in Boots’: See November 18, 2 & 7 p.m.

Music

21 MONDAY

Preschool Music: See November 1.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 5:45-7 p.m. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

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

Education

Nurturing Parent Program: See November 7. One-on-One Tutoring: See November 2.

Library & Books

Hardwick Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See November 7. Williston Music for Preschoolers: See November 3, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

Audubon Nature Playgroup: See November 7. Robin’s Nest Nature Playgroup: See November 7.

Parenting

Becoming A Father: New dads pose questions to a professional parent educator. Topics include length of paternity leave, time-management and bottle versus breastfeeding. Aldrich Public Library, Barre, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953.

°° TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Drop-In Preschool Art: See November 1.

Baby & Maternity

‘A Christmas Carol’: See November 19, 2 p.m. ‘Puss in Boots’: See November 18, 2 p.m.

Education

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Food

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

Games

Jericho Dungeons & Dragons: See November 2. Lego Fun: Budding builders bust out the blocks. Grades K and up; kids under 5 are welcome to participate with adult supervision. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Library & Books

Nature & Science

Story Time at ECHO: See November 2.

Won a spelling bee? Invented something?

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See November 19.

Written an opera? Raised a bunch of money for a great cause?

24 THURSDAY

Health & Fitness

French for Middle Schoolers: See November 1. Read to Willy Wonka the Chocolate Lab: See November 8.

Games

25 FRIDAY

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See November 1.

Baby & Maternity

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See November 1. Spanish Musical Kids: See November 1. TinkerBelles: See November 1.

Movies

Tell us more! He or she could be featured as One to Watch in an upcoming issue of Kids VT. Visit Kidsvt.com to tell us about this local superhero.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Fairs & Festivals Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa Parade: Santa sneaks away from the North Pole for a holiday parade starting at noon on City Hall Block, ending at the Mall Block. At 5:30 p.m., “Twas the Night Before Christmas” enchants the audience with a ﬁnale of the illumination of 250,000 lights on Church Street. Oª cial lighting time 6 p.m., sharp. Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 12-11 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1648.

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KIDS VT

Vacation Movie: Kids on school break relax with a PG ﬂick and popcorn. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

One to Watch Do you know a local kid (age 17 or under) who's recently done something amazing?

Lego Club: See November 2.

Thanksgiving Turkey Skate: Kids of all ages work up an appetite by whizzing and whirling on ice. Stowe Arena, 10 a.m.-noon. $3-5; $5 skate rental. Info, 253-3054. Zack’s Place Turkey Trot: This 5K walk/run raises funds for a free enrichment center for community members with special needs. (See spotlight.) Woodstock Elementary School, 10 a.m. $30 per preregistered racer. Info, 457-5868.

Library & Books

10/29/15 10:15 AM

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's....

NOVEMBER 2016

Theater

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 5:45-7:15 p.m. Mom and Baby Yoga: See November 2. Mother’s Gathering: See November 2. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

KIDSVT.COM

Tour the Cosmos: See November 5. Wagon-Ride Weekends: See November 5.

23 WEDNESDAY

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 2.

Education

Nature & Science

‘A Christmas Carol’: See November 19, 11 a.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Music

Baby & Maternity

Essex Open Gym: See November 6. Family Tennis Drop-In: See November 6.

Theater

Baby & Maternity

°˛ SUNDAY

Health & Fitness

Nurturing Parent Program: See November 8.

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See November 7. Essex Lego Club: See November 7. Milton Legos at the Library: See November 7, 3:30-5 p.m. ‘Star Wars’ Club: Young fans channel the Force and chomp on popcorn. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. Stories with Megan: See November 7.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See November 1. Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See November 1, 12:15-1:30 p.m. Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 10-11:30 a.m.

Parenting

10/28/16 11:48 AM

NOV

CALENDAR 25 FRIDAY (CONTINUED)

Playgroups

Games

Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers, and caregivers connect with other local parents and peers. The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts, or music. MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

Burlington Crawlers & Toddlers: VNA Family Room, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 862-2121. Burlington Playgroup: Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 578-6471. Cambridge Playgroup: Cambridge Elementary School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229. Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School Early Education Program, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Milton Playgroup: Milton Public Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-1457. Morrisville Playgroup: Morristown Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229. Open Gym: Central VT Gymnastics Academy, 10-11:30 a.m. $7. Info, 882-8324.

ArtisTree Playgroup: Purple Crayon/ArtisTree, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 457-3500. Burlington Infant Massage: VNA Family Room, 11 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 862-2121. Burlington Playgroup: See Monday. Charlotte Babytime: Charlotte Public Library, third Wednesday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Colchester Playgroup: Colchester Village Meeting House, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 316-2918. Essex Baby Playgroup: Sunset Studio, 1011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrop Memorial Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 827-3945. Hinesburg Family Playtime: Hinesburg Town Hall, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Richmond Playgroup: Richmond Free Library, 8:45-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415. Shelburne Playgroup: Trinity Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 6852264, ext. 24. Toddler Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 748-8291, ext. 303.

TUESDAY Bradford Playgroup: Grace United Methodist Church, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24. Burlington Dads’ Night: VNA Family Room, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. Burlington New Moms Playgroup: Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, 12:15-2 p.m. Free. Info, 864-9642. Burlington Playgroup: See Monday. Essex Junction Playgroup: Maple Street Recreation Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. Jericho Playgroup: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415. Johnson Baby Chat: Church of the Nazarene, fourth Tuesday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470. Winooski Playtime: O’Brien Community Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-1422. Wolcott Playgroup: Wolcott Depot Center Preschool, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

THURSDAY Alburgh Playgroup: Alburgh Public Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Burlington Drop-In Family Play: VNA Family Room, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 862-2121. Essex Junction Playgroup: See Tuesday. Hinesburg Baby Time: United Church of Hinesburg, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Johnson Playgroup: United Church of Johnson, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229. Milton Playgroup: See Monday.

Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Ohavi Zedek Synagogue Playgroup: Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 864-0218. Randolph Playgroup: St. John’s Church, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24. Williston Play Time: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 878-4918. Winooski Playtime: See Tuesday. FRIDAY Colchester Playgroup: See Wednesday. Hinesburg Preschool Playgroup: Hinesburg Community School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-4946. Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415. Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 347-1780. Open Gym: See Monday. Randolph Toddler Time: Kimball Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073. Rutland Playgroup: Rutland Free Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860. Stowe Playgroup: Stowe Community Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229. Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415. Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, third Friday of every month, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 272-6509. SATURDAY Morrisville Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Killington Magic: The Gathering: See November 4. Lego Club: See November 4.

Holidays

Deck the Halls: Visitors view the museum’s decorations, participate in art activities and explore the grounds by horse and wagon. Local musicians add joyous sound to the festivities. All ages. Shelburne Museum, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular winter museum admission, $5-10; free for children under 5 and members. Info, 985-3346. Thanksgiving Weekend: A holiday celebration showcases Turkey Day traditions from 1890, including tasty treats and wagon rides towed by a team of draft horses. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Library & Books

Black Friday Book Sale: Bibliophiles fill bags with hundreds of bargain-priced hard- and softcovers. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free to attend. Info, 472-5948. Early Bird Math Story Time: See November 4. Family Story Time: See November 4. Friday Free for All: See November 4.

Music Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See November 4.

Theater

‘A Christmas Carol’: See November 19, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

26 SATURDAY

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See November 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Dance

‘The Nutcracker’: Young dancers from the Albany Berkshire Ballet visit the Land of Sweets and conquer the Mouse King in this beloved holiday classic. All ages. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 3 & 7 p.m. $19-42.50. Info, 863-5966.

Food Submit your December and January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

802.863.6713

24th ANNUAL

KIDSVT.COM

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See November 5.

Champlain Valley Expo

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2016