Kids VT, November 2012

✱ TAKE A STAB AT FENCING ✱ HELPING FAMILIES DEAL WITH DIVORCE ✱ DADS SHARE THANKFUL THOUGHTS

FREE

NOV 2012 V OL.1 9 NO.1 0

r e e U W s s ! y o T Holiday Gift Guide

NOW THROUGH JANUARY 27, 2013

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VOL.19 N O . 10

NOVEMBER 2012 A Vermont Nanny & Elder Care Agency

DEPARTMENTS From the Kids VT Staff ............................................5 See and Say ......................................................................7 Birthday Club..................................................................46 Use Your Words: Essay ..........................................47

• Safe, loving, and professional in-home caregivers

Toys Were Us....... 18

EAT. LEARN. PLAY

A nostalgia-fueled gift guide to holiday shopping for your kids

The Kids Beat ..................................................................8 Ask Dr. First: Sore-Throat Sources..............10 Fit Families: Fencing................................................11 The Librarian Likes ....................................................11 The Because Project: Anaïs Mitchell..........13 Out to Eat: The Spot .................................................15 Go Ask Dad: Giving Thanks .................................16 The Art of Piano ...........................................................17

• Professional screening and strict recruitment process • Full-time, part-time, temp, event, and sitter services

Need a Night Out? Purchase a babysitter bundle and

save 15%

CALENDAR

www.babiestoboomersvt.com 802-540-0433

Daily Listings ..................................................................27 Classes ..................................................................................28 Story Times ......................................................................30 Playgroups ........................................................................36

COPEing with Divorce.... 22 A court-ordered class for parents helps ease the transition

HANDS-ON Project: Turkey Hand Puppet ...........................42 Habitat: Crafting Corner .......................................43 Book Review ....................................................................44 Coloring Contest .........................................................45 Puzzle Page ......................................................................46

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ON THE COVER Photographer Matt Thorsen played around with our cover toys this month. Most were collected from our staff, others were generously lent to us by Barge Canal Market in Burlington.

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS Colby Roberts Cathy Resmer Don Eggert Kate Laddison Corey Grenier Kaitlin Montgomery

colby@kidsvt.com cathy@kidsvt.com don@kidsvt.com kate@kidsvt.com corey@kidsvt.com kaitlin@kidsvt.com

ext. 77 ext. 74 ext. 71 ext. 73 ext. 76 ext. 72

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.

• •

© 2012 Da Capo Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.

Photographers: Jim Deschler, Andy Duback, Matthew Thorsen Illustrators: Thomas James, Rev. Diane Sullivan Cover image: Matthew Thorsen

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Published 11x per year.

Circulation: 25,000 at 400+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.

Contributing Writers: Nancy Stearns Bercaw, Victoria Brown, Dan Bolles, Kristin Fletcher, Anaïs Mitchell, Cindy Morgan, Ken Picard, Ana Ruesink, Lindsay J. Westley

KIDS VT

Editorial 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.

NOVEMBER 2012

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

Copy Editors Margot Harrison Megan James Paula Routly Proofreaders Meredith Coeyman Janice Obuchowski Production Manager John James Lead Designer Brooke Bousquet Designers Celia Hazard Rev. Diane Sullivan Circulation Manager Steve Hadeka Digital Media Manager Tyler Machado Office Manager Cheryl Brownell

KIDSVT.COM

Copublisher Copublisher/Executive Editor Creative Director Managing Editor Director of Marketing & Events Account Executive

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10/24/12 11:17 AM

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Champlain Valley Head Start

10/24/12 11:03 AM

Serving Chittenden, Addison, Franklin and Grand Isle Counties

Early Head Start and Head Start are national programs that provide services to families with children ages 0–5. Services include: education, health, nutrition, me ntal health, and social services that help families and children to grow and to do well in school and in life.

Early Head Start serves pregnant women and families with children from birth to 3 years of age. Head Start serves families with children 3 to 5 years of age. Services are free for all eligible families, though some childcare fees may apply in childcare centers in which Head Start services are provided.

LIMITED SPACES APPLY NOW!!

Champlain Valley Head Start 431 Pine Street, Burlington, VT 05401 1-800-854-9648 or 802-651-4180

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november 2012

KidsVT.com

Early Head Start and Head Start help parents to take the lead role in their child’s learning and development, to be their child’s first teacher, and to build positive family relationships. CVHS also provides services for children with special needs, including those with severe disabilities, and helps families to find transportation services.

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*One coupon per customer. Excludes footwear, consignment items, gift cards and previous purchases WHEN I WAS A KID, one of my favorite toys was a Fisher-Price castle. My younger brother, sister and I would lie on our bellies for hours on the livingroom rug, flinging Little People off the spring-coiled flagpole and trapping unsuspecting woodsmen in the secret chamber under the stairs.

That castle stood the test of time, too. My dad still has it tucked away in a closet, and a second generation of kids now draws the bridge. Fond memories of those old-school FisherPrice moments motivated me to search Ebay last Christmas for retro toys my son Oliver might enjoy.

That nostalgia inspired this year’s gift guide (page 18.) Knowing how strongly grown-ups can feel about the toys of their youth, Nancy Stearns Bercaw trolled local retail outlets to find contemporary equivalents of the dolls, games and books we loved so much.

That Little People castle will be back on the living room floor when my brothers and sisters gather for Thanksgiving at my dad’s house this year. He battled some heart issues recently, so we’re all thankful for the opportunity to share another dinner at his table.

Kids VT dads share their thoughts on thanks, too, in “Go Ask Dad” on page 16.

Big, end-of-year celebrations can be stressful for separated and blended families. Our story about the COPE class (page 22), a court-ordered “session” for divorcing Vermont couples, includes advice parents shouldn’t forget in the holiday crush: Stay focused on your kids. Kids VT endorses that lesson, too: Find time to get down on the floor and play with your little people.

A children’s department store Books • Toys • Clothes • Shoes • Baby/Nursery

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Intimate, comfortable and confident. The Copley Birthing Center gives our moms and babies the kind of care that only a small, family oriented facility can offer. From our homey dŽcor of cozy quilts and soothing earth tones to the comfy, hand-made knitted caps we give to each new arrival, our family of doctors, nurses and midwives provide our moms and newborns with a very personal level of support, both physically and emotionally.

— Kate Laddison Managing Editor

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

KIDS VT

Anaïs Mitchell (“Because Project”) is a singer-songwriter who grew up in rural Addison County. She has produced five albums — four of them, including the soundtrack to her rock opera Hadestown, are on Ani DiFranco’s record label, Righteous Babe Records. Her latest album, Young Man in America, came out on her own Wilderland Records earlier this year.

NOVEMBER 2012

Victoria Brown (“Use Your Words”) is a freshman at BFA-Fairfax. This essay about hosting Chinese exchange students is her publishing debut.

Congratulations, Victoria! Welcome to the club.

• 1:1 labor support • OB/GYN Specialists • Water Births & Hydrotherapy • Certified Nurse Midwives • Pain Management including Epidurals • Lactation Support • Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Section (VBAC)

KIDSVT.COM

Nancy Stearns Bercaw (“Toys Were Us”) is a freelance writer who penned last year’s award-winning gift guide for Kids VT. In April 2013, Broadstone Books will publish her book, Brain in a Jar, about her neurologist father’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Nancy lives in Burlington with her husband, Allan Nicholls, and their son, David.

...youÕre family now

10/25/12 11:56 AM

528 Washington Highway, Morrisville 802-888-8888 www.copleyvt.org

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YOUR VACATION DESTINATION Y VACATION CAMPS You don’t have to travel far for adventure! The Y offers imaginative themed camps every school break. Hours: 7:30 am-6pm; $37 a day.

Thanksgiving break camps:

• Essex Elementary • Underhill Central • Greater Burlington Y Contact Julie Peterson at JPeterson@gbymca.org or 862-9622. Financial assistance is available. gbymca.org.

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Kids VT

november 2012

KidsVT.com

For children ages 5-12

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SEE AND SAY

READERS RESPOND

Color Me Happy

eenie” coloring Attached is my son’s “Octow contest picture. on a Sunday We were at Essex Pediatrics n sick bee afternoon. My son Jason had g a high fever, was very lightnin run s wa for five days already and ked s whiter than a ghost, etc. I pic headed, could hardly walk, wa while it h oug thr ing mb thu starting up one of your newspapers and I en waiting for the doctor. Wh t tes con pointed out the coloring y ver e am page to Jason, he bec d to excited and definitely wante participate.

As a mom, just that moment over of him showing signs of life s something — anything — wa delightful!

Thank you!

Lisa J. Vanat Burlington

These winners get $25 from TD Bank.

COLORING CONTEST

Kids sure do love Halloween. What other explanation — other than candy-fueled creativity — could account for last month’s record number of coloring-contest entries? Thanks for 139 sweet and spooky cephalopods.

HONORABLE MENTIONS PURR-FECT PURPLE OCTO-CAT “Octopus” Lea Wetzel, 10, Milton BEST SPOOKED FACE “Super Octopus!”

Noah Cueto, 12, St. Albans WILDEST WIG “Superfloating Alien” Emily Deibler, 10, Essex Junction

4 and under

Enzo Napolitano, 4 BURLINGTON

“Trick-or-Treating With Detective Octopus”

BOLDEST BRAIN “Frankenbrain” January Simpson, 11, Montpelier

Congratulations to the KidsVT-sponsored Greater Burlington Girls Soccer League teams on a successful fall 2012 season.

PRICELESS PATCHWORK “Color Changing Octopus” Maejeannette LaVallee, 11, Winooski TRANSFORMATIVE TRICKS “When Aliens Trick-or-Treat” Bryan Ford, 10, South Burlington STUPENDOUS SUCTION CUPS “Going Trick or Treating Under the Sea” Mason Tirrito, 6, St. Albans MOST UNEXPECTED PATTERN “Patty the Plaid Octopus” Maeve McCullagh, 8, Colchester TOP TIGER-STRIPED TREATER “Trick or Treat” Callie Tomlinson, 7, Georgia

5 to 8

Samantha Wilkinson, 8 SOUTH BURLINGTON

“Bats Bats Bats!”

FABULOUS FREESTYLE “Skeleton Spooky” Addison Smith, 5, Shelburne CRAZY-COOL CLASH OF COLORS “Spooky Puss” Aubrey Verdon, 4, Williamstown

KIDSVT.COM

AWESOME ARMS “Trick or Treat” Ella Collins, 4, Barre Town

TOP TITLES

“The Halloween Miracle” Soni Laughlin, 8, Burlington “Octo” ber “Pus” Sela Joy Baker, 3, Jericho

BURLINGTON

“Octovamp”

9 to 12

KIDS VT

Find this month’s coloring contest on page 45. The deadline for submissions is November 15.

Emma Lowry, 9

NOVEMBER 2012

“Moaaaaaaaaaaa (Evil Laugh)” Creed Stilwell, 8, Lincoln

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Jump Start

12/13/10 6:05 PM

Kids at St. Albans City elementary school swung into action last month, demonstrating for Governor Peter Shumlin the hula skills they’ve honed for a new early-morning exercise program. Staffed by the Greater Burlington YMCA and funded by a $25,000

tion · Tea Collec en · Pink Chick au · Petit Bate · Joules ty · Moulin Ro 1056 Mountain Rd. Stowe, VT 05672

grant from the Beverage Association of Vermont, the twice-weekly, 30-minute RISE ’N SHINE sessions start kids on the right foot by getting them moving before the bell rings.

They also offer info on healthy food, a nutritional side dish to accompany the federally funded school breakfasts.

Rise ’N Shine is already working — out — at Winooski’s JFK Elementary School and is scheduled to start up

MUSIC 802-253-1955 bumblebellkids.com

Jolly Rocker

Susan Fay

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KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

Cap’n Jack Sparrow he ain’t. But as marauding swashbucklers go, Jeffersonville’s Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate does have a certain dashing, if hokey, charm about him. With his debut K16T-bumblebell1112.indd 1 10/25/12 11:22 AM DVD, LIGHTS … CAMERA … RRR! MUSIC VIDEOS BY ROCKIN’ RON THE FRIENDLY PIRATE, the local children’s entertainer A Mediation Partnership and would-be picaroon offers a video companion to his 2010 CD, Give Me an RRR! The 10 songs here are culled from that rollicking album and, despite egregious overuse of the “RRR!” thing, Specializing in Separation comprise a genial collection of tunes that should amuse young and Divorce, Post-Divorce, buccaneers and keep parents from turning to Captain Morgan Blended Families on repeated — and repeated and repeated — viewings. The DVD’s and Same Sex Couples. spare production value may seem waterlogged compared to slicker releases from, say, Raffi. But if the eye-patch-wearing, Offices in Winooski and St. Albans. sabre-rattling kids dancing a jig in the crowd are any indication, In private practice since 1989.

Rockin’ Ron’s silly shanties are indeed seaworthy.

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— D.B.

LIGHTS … CAMERA … RRR! MUSIC VIDEOS BY ROCKIN’ RON THE FRIENDLY PIRATE: Available at rockinronthefriendlypirate.com.

10/25/12 9:48 AM

soon at the Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes in Burlington. The Y wants to see early morning Freeze Tag being played all over Vermont. Good thing the gov is game.

— K.L. RISE ’N SHINE: In St. Albans on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30-8 a.m., for kids in kindergarten to sixth grade.

Offered in Winooski on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Handmade Gifts Are The Best Gifts!

EAT. LEARN. PLAY. TECHNOLOGY

Pick the Loc Looking for a nonviolent mobile game both you and your iPad-toting teen will enjoy? Download LOC, a devilishly tricky 3-D puzzler developed by Burlington-based Birnam Wood Games. The premise: You’ve been taken prisoner by the vengeful queen of the faeries, who wants to keep you in her kingdom. To escape, COURTESY OF BIRNAM WOOD GAMES

Create something special for Mom, Dad, Grandparents, Teachers and Friends.

Bracelets • Necklaces • Earrings Bookmarks • Key Rings Zipper Pulls • Wine Charms Parties for all ages

you must solve the puzzles that lie between you and freedom. Loc is a simple, block-moving puzzle game.

Players shift blocks to direct a stream of green energy from a starting point along a path to the finish tile. The puzzles get progressively more challenging as you advance.

Downsides: The graphics are a little dark, and because you have to move blocks around each other, it can be cumbersome to arrange the board how you want. Still, Loc will gobble up your time and give you a great mental workout. Plus, it was made by a group of Champlain College grads.

Maybe it’ll inspire your kids to design games instead of just play them.

— M.G. LOC: Available in the App Store, $1.99.

WINTER SPORTS

Whoosh Come True

FIFTH GRADE PASSPORT PROGRAM: Passports are valid December 1 to May 1.

Purchase online or by mailing a report card or birth certificate and a $10 processing fee to Ski Vermont, attention Fifth Grade Passport, P.O. Box 368, Montpelier, 05602.

Info, skivermont.com.

21 Taft Corners Shopping Center Williston • 288-9666 • www.beadcrazyvt.com Birthday Parties • Repairs Instruction is Always Available Class schedule online.

There are so many reasons to love being 11 — and grade-school dominance is just one of them. In Vermont, every fifth grader skis for free. That’s k8v-beadscrazy1112.indd right. The FIFTH GRADE PASSPORT PROGRAM provides coupon booklets containing free lift tickets and trail passes for young snow lovers good for up to 88 days of no-charge skiing and riding at Vermont’s alpine and Nordic resorts. There’s only one catch: accompaniment by an adult with a full-price lift ticket. Last year, 2400 middle schoolers hit the slopes courtesy of the program, which has a new, easyto-use online ordering system. There are worse things to get hooked on than downhill skiing in Vermont.

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— K.L.

136 Locust Street Burlington, VT 862-6696 www.cksvt.org osteel@cksvt.org facebook.com/cksvt

THE BROTHERS PLAD: by Watermelon Tourmaline, aka Sean Plasse, illustrated by Kevin Ruelle, self-published, 272 pages, $23.95. Info, thebrothersplad.com.

Art Music PE French Technology Licensed After-School Program Athletic & Enrichment

Opportunities EARLY EDUCATION OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, November 15th at 8:30am

Please visit our website and click on “Admissions” for more information.

KIDS VT

For learners entering Pre-school(3yo program)-Kindergarten for the 2013-2014 academic year.

NOVEMBER 2012

— K.L.

We are proud of our Faith Filled Environment & Academic Excellence

KIDSVT.COM

Reading is rough when you’ve got dyslexia. That’s what motivated Vermont author Sean Plasse, who suffers from the learning disability, to write THE BROTHERS PLAD. With its phonetic spelling of “plaid,” the book aims to “turn reluctant readers into relentless ones,” according to the Facebook page for the book. Plasse’s brother Matt edited and financed the project. Appropriately, the story is of two young brothers on a quest to fish a remote trout hole in the Northeast Kingdom. Along the way, readers encounter the icons, vocabulary keys and phonetic spellings that make the written narrative dyslexic-friendly. It’s the Hardy Boys, but dressed in plaid and fighting through Green Mountain puckerbrush to land a brookie.

Christ the King School

3 years old to 8th Grade

BOOKS

Dyslexia Story

10/17/12 3:08 PM

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ReseaRch study ba

ck

Q ASK DR. FIRST a ndy d u

for children ages 3-5 who stutter, and children who have typically developing speech.

b y ken Pi c a r d

Compensation & Free Speech Evaluation Please call:

802-338-2029 or email: cabbiati@uvm.edu

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10/15/12

What should parents know about tonsils, adenoids and other sore-throat sources?

MoST pARenTS ToDAy ARe olD enough to remember the era when tonsillectomies — and their post-op promise of endless ice cream — were a routine part of childhood. No longer. These days, pediatricians try to avoid putting their young patients under the knife unless it’s essential.

What’s behind sore throats? Just in time for winter, Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care, offers a tongue-depressor’s view of what can go wrong back there.

KIDS VT: What causes a sore throat?

LEWIS FIRST: A sore throat represents an inflammation in the back of the throat, often in the tonsils or 12:20 PMadenoids. What causes a sore throat is a germ setting up shop in the back of the throat.

KVT: What do the tonsils do?

LF: Basically, they help trap germs and prevent them from getting further into the system. Sometimes, when a lot of germs build up, the germs start winning and cause the tonsils to become inflamed — hence, tonsillitis. The same thing happens with the adenoids, which are tissues we don’t see at the back of the nose and above the throat.

When those tissues become inflamed, it’s called adenoiditis.

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KIDS VT

november 2012 KIDSVT.CoM

KVT: Why are these problems more common in kids?

LF: For whatever reason, before the immune system matures, the tonsils and adenoids play a bigger role in protecting young patients than they do in adults. As we get older, our immune systems are more seasoned so we don’t need that initial line of defense as much as children do. That’s why we don’t immediately remove the tonsils.

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KVT: How do the doctors decide if surgery is necessary?

LF: Given the protection tonsils provide, the goal is to weigh the risks and benefits. So if your child has recurrent sore throats — defined as seven episodes in a year, with kids missing a lot of school — that may warrant removing them. Often we remove the adenoids and tonsils at the same time.

Obviously, if the tonsils get so swollen that the child experiences difficulty breathing, swallowing or sleeping due to persistent snoring, or they stop breathing for several seconds because 10/25/12 9:51 AM

of an airway obstruction, those are reasons to remove them. With the adenoids, recurrent ear infections can also be the reason for removal. But we first try to treat the infection medically — not surgically.

KVT: What’s the best way to treat sore-throat symptoms?

LF: Rest, acetaminophen or ibuprofen, lots of hydration and usually in a day or two the swelling will go down. The concern is when the inflammation of the throat is due to a bacterial infection. That’s where strep throat may come into play.

If a child has recurrent sore throats — defined as seven episodes in a year — it may warrant removing the tonsils.

KVT: When should parents suspect strep?

LF: A sore throat in the absence of other cold symptoms — along with fever, perhaps some belly pain — may point to a potential streptococcal — or strep — infection. It’s rare for strep to come with a runny nose.

KVT: Why is strep such a concern?

LF: Strep will actually get better without an antibiotic. The concern with strep is the complications that can follow an untreated infection include problems with the heart, kidney and joints, or what we call rheumatic fever.

The reason we treat strep throat is not so much to take care of the sore throat but to prevent those complications.

Got questions for Dr. First?

Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.

KVT: Can you have strep and not even know it?

LF: Yes. About 20 percent of people will carry strep, not even knowing they have it, and pass it on to others. That’s why it’s so important for kids to wash their hands and not share eating utensils. If parents have any question about whether a sore throat is strep, their health care provider can usually do a rapid diagnostic test in the office and can tell with about 80 to 90 percent certainty.

KVT: How long is strep contagious?

LF: The good news is that after 24 hours of taking an antibiotic, kids are no longer contagious and can return to school. But parents still need to treat this infection for about 10 days. What you’re preventing are those long-term complications of the streptococcal bacteria.

KVT: Are there other throat viruses parents should know about?

LF: There’s a virus that causes ulcers or blisters in the back of the throat called Coxsackie. It can also cause blisters on the hand, foot and mouth. The other one is mononucleosis. If your child has the sore throat for at least a week, despite an antibiotic, or excessive fatigue and their glands are swollen, it may be mono.

That illness can be verified with a simple blood test.

KVT: Does gargling with saltwater help a sore throat?

LF: It actually does. It doesn’t make the virus or bacteria go away any faster.

But the tonsil or adenoid is swollen because it’s full of fluid as part of the inflammation, so putting salt on it draws out that fluid and makes it less painful. Another way to deal with the pain is to have your child suck on a popsicle, which numbs the back of the throat. K

EAT. LEARN. PLAY. ✱ FIT FAMILIES

BY AN A RUE SINK

Curses, Foiled Again!

WHERE TO GO: Vermont Fencing Alliance holds weekly classes in Middlebury and Charlotte.

The next 10-week session starts in early January.

VIVEKA FOX level. I picked up some tips from Fox’s assistant coach, Ray Schuppe, who knows what it’s like to pick up a foil later in life; he took up fencing to get in shape and to be active with his family. Now he trains side by side with his teenage daughter Sharon, a member of VFA’s competitive Junior Team.

By the end of practice I was drenched in sweat, and my thighs were burning from all that crouching and lunging. Fencing is a surprisingly good workout.

When the kids in the gym took off their masks, they looked confident and strong. I imagined where fencing might take them — not to a pirate’s life, but to an adolescence that’s assertive and focused, respectful of rules, and mindful of when to advance and when to retreat.

En garde!

“The Librarian Likes” features a different librarian and book each month.

Got an idea for a future LL? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

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“Fit Families” is a monthly feature that offers easy and affordable ways to stay active.

Got an idea for a future FF? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

AGE RANGE:

4 and up Who will like it: The picture-book format will appeal to preschoolers, but even older kids and adults will enjoy Just a Second.

It’s a thought-provoking choice for the kitchen table or the classroom, a jumping-off point for discussions and projects.

KIDS VT

Finally we each took up our foil and practiced lunging forward to poke our opponent. That was pretty fun.

I asked the boy next to me why he decided to try fencing. “I like stabbing things,” he said cheerfully. His friend chimed in, “Fencing’s like mental chess. I like the strategy and figuring out all the rules.”

According to Fox, forms of fencing have existed for thousands of years in many cultures, but modern foil-fencing dates to the 17th century court of French King Louis XIV. Complex rules, plus a high degree of hand-eye and body coordination, make it both a mental and physical challenge.

The range of experience at the gym that night was broad; there were beginners like me, as well as accomplished fencers. But everyone got instruction at his or her own

NOVEMBER 2012

FEES: A 10-week session costs $100, plus VFA dues of $10 per session.

See a cost breakdown on the VFA website, vtfencingalliance.com.

What’s most important in fencing is how you move your body.

What you do with your weapon is secondary.

Allerton’s summary: In this stunning, nonfiction picture book, Just a Second, Steve Jenkins explores time in a way that’s radically different from clockwatching. He uses dramatic examples of what takes place in an hour, a day or a year to make mind-boggling comparisons that demonstrate just how much — or how little — happens as time passes.

For example, a midge beats its wings a thousand times in a second, while a sprinting cheetah travels 100 feet. A baby blue whale gains 10 pounds an hour. In LIBRARIAN: two billion years, Sarah the Earth’s oceans Allerton, will have boiled children’s away. Jenkins librarian, St. weaves together Albans Free math, science and Library natural-history lessons while BOOK: Just artfully explaina Second: ing how people A Different have experienced Way to Look and measured at Time by the passage of Steve Jenkins time throughout history.

KIDSVT.COM

EQUIPMENT: Fencers need a jacket, mask, glove and foil; VFA rents a set for $20 per 10-week session. Expect to spend roughly $125 to purchase all that gear; Fox recommends online retailer absolutefencinggear.com.

MATTHEW THORSEN

WEEKS BEFORE HALLOWEEN, the Charlotte Central School gym was full of swashbucklers clad in stiff jackets, black mesh masks and leather gloves.

They lunged and parried with their long, slender, blunt-tipped weapons.

The gym floor could almost have passed for the deck of Jack Sparrow’s ship, the Black Pearl.

But these weren’t pirates seeking plunder — they were foil-wielding fencing students, ages 9 and up, gathered for their Tuesday evening class.

I stopped in to try my hand at fencing. Our instructor was Viveka Fox, who leads the Vermont Fencing Alliance. “Fencing builds flexibility, balance and strength,” she told me beforehand. Evidently those virtues have broad appeal — preteen boys were the dominant demographic, but we middle-aged moms were well represented, too.

We began with stretches and exercises in a big circle, then moved on to footwork. “What’s most important in fencing is how you move your body,” said Fox. “What you do with your weapon is secondary.” So we practiced the en garde position — feet perpendicular to each other and shoulderwidth apart, knees bent, leading arm relaxed and bent at the elbow. We practiced advancing and retreating, scuttling back and forth like crabs.

✱ THE LIBRARIAN LIKES

âœą KIDS VT EVENT

A Whale of a Time

Kids VT partnered with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra to present an interactive, familyfriendly concert series October 20 and 21. It was great to see so many kids in costume at well-attended shows in St. Albans, Colchester and Middlebury.

See more photos on our Facebook page.

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Thank you to our sponsors for helping us make this concert series possible.

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EAT. LEARN. PLAY. VERMONT CHILDREN’S TRUST FOUNDATION PRESENTS THE

BECAUSE PROJECT I started studying music

BECAUSE

The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation supports statewide prevention programs for children and families to help give all kids a fair chance at success.

my grandparents gave me a violin.

The Because Project asks Vermonters to share their stories about people and experiences that have shaped their lives, especially during their formative years — stories that may inspire others to get involved. Because together we can all make a difference.

I

COURTESY OF ANAÏS MITCHELL

WITH SUPPORT FROM

grew up close to my maternal grandparents — their house was just down the driveway from ours. They helped raise my brother and me. My granddad was retired, but when I was 7 years old, he was still doing some consulting, so he and my grandma traveled a lot. I remember my excitement when they’d return home from their trips, full of exotic stories and descriptions of new friends. Their suitcases inevitably held a gift for my brother and me.

Once, after a trip to Hong Kong, they returned with a tiny, one-eighth-size red violin, perfect for a small pair of arms like mine.

They knew I wanted one. A series of musicians had just visited my elementary school to demonstrate different instruments. One stunningly beautiful, elfin-looking woman played the violin. I had fallen instantly in love with it; when I got home I had announced that I wanted to play, too.

So I started taking lessons, organized and paid for by my grandparents. My granddad would pick me up from school, drive me to my weekly lesson and read the newspaper in the car until I’d finished. I’d practice before school in my grandma’s sewing room. She’d bring tea with milk and say things like, “You’re sounding great!” and “You’re really getting that piece now!”

I dreaded the recitals that were an inevitable part of the lesson cycle. Somehow all the music that was so easy to play in my grandma’s sewing room became nearly impossible on stage. My heart pounded, and my hands trembled, giving every note a scratchy, unintended, unprofessional vibrato. It never ceased to amaze me as a kid, riding home from what I thought had been an unmitigated disaster, when my family told me with glowing faces, “You were wonderful!”

ANAÏS MITCHELL, MUSICIAN, SINGER AND SONGWRITER

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Email them to fagan@vtchildrenstrust.org.

Submissions should be 300 to 600 words long and respond to the prompt "I am/decided to/ learned to _______ because of ______." Kids VT will feature one of these stories in each issue.

NOVEMBER 2012

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WORKING TOGETHER

I played for several years, then crossed a threshold of adolescence through which the violin could not pass. I was so afraid to disappoint my family, especially my grandparents, by quitting. They’d never been pushy about the instrument, but they had made it clear that if they were going to pay for my lessons, I was going to have to practice. To my great relief, everyone understood the changes I was going through, and they were unsurprised when, a year or two later, I quietly picked up the guitar and began writing songs.

So much about those violin years informed and inspired my life as a songwriter today. There was the ear training and sense of melody that becomes second nature to very young players. There was the practicing — the daily dedication to a craft — which I still find difficult, but it’s still true that cups of tea and encouraging words make it easier. There was the knowledge that I could get up on stage even if my hands trembled and that, no matter what, my family loved it.

I travel a lot nowadays, too; It was my grandparents who showed me that we can be at home in the world even when we’re far from home and that the world is a friendly, wonderful place, full of people who will take us in.

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eaT. Learn. PLay. Q oUT To EAT by c in dy m o rgan

The Spot 210 shelburne road, burlington, 540-1778 YoU pUll YoUrsElf oUT of ThE ocEAn after a morning of riding the waves, dry off in the warm sun, throw your board on top of the car and head to the local surf shack for breakfast.

Then you wake up from the dream: It’s stick season in Vermont — gray skies, plunging temps and not a warm wave in sight.

The perfect antidote is on the south side of Burlington at the Spot, where they serve island ambiance along with delicious food. Four years ago, owner

back at the tank before our server had put away her pad.

The Spot is loud and casual — perfect for families. That my two kids were running back and forth from tank to table with fish reports didn’t seem to bother anyone. When it’s nice out, families with kids enjoy even more freedom outside on the patio.

The kids menu offers smaller portions of the Spot’s breakfast entrées: one egg with toast; one pancake; crêpes with fruit; or a bagel

My kids order the Morning Surfari, which invites them to build their own omelets or breakfast wraps. with cream cheese. But my kids ordered the Morning Surfari off the adult menu, which invited them to choose from a long list of ingredients — everything they wanted and nothing they didn’t — to build their own omelets or breakfast wraps.

The meal satisfied us in a way that only good, warm breakfast food can.

My daughter rhapsodized over the breakfast potatoes, putting away hers and most of her brother’s in between bites of her egg-bean-and-cheese wrap. My son savored his sausage-andcheese omelet — each bite yielding just the right proportions of egg, cheese and delicious breakfast meat. My à la carte scrambled eggs were not too wet,

maTThew Thorsen

Russ Scully bought a 1950s gas station on Shelburne Road and converted it into a California-Hawaii, surf-themed restaurant. Picture surf posters, skylights, potted palm trees and a 150-gallon, salt-water fish tank. The original car bays are fitted with custom roll-up windows that, even closed, let in so much light you quickly forget it’s 45 degrees and cloudy outside.

On a chilly Saturday morning after my daughter’s soccer game, we hit the Spot for breakfast. The 20-minute wait flew by as I enjoyed a hot cup of coffee and the kids focused on the fish-tank, their noses pressed against the glass. Once we got a table, they tore themselves away to order but were

4-year-old emerson and cole, 6 months not too dry. In a word: perfect. The bagel I ordered on the side was crispy around the edges, chewy everywhere else. Chased down with more good hot coffee, I was in my happy place — warm and content as if we were on vacation.

We paid our bill and spent more time at the fish tank, deciding which was our favorite and trying to find the elusive eel. It wasn’t snorkeling in Hawaii, but on a dreary fall day in Vermont, it was the next best thing. K

oUr bill for foUr: $28.91 The spot is open for breakfast and lunch all week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and for dinner Tuesday through saturday, 3 to 9 p.m.

Kids entrées, from $2.50-$6.95, are available at every meal.

Kid-friEndlY AmEniTiEs: three high chairs, three boosters, crayons, paper and, of course, the fish tank.

“Out to Eat” is a monthly family-friendly restaurant review. Where should we eat next? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

Montshire Museum of Science KidsVT.com

One of the nation’s top 25 science centers

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One Montshire Rd. Norwich, VT

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Hands-on science nature trails  live animals outdoor Science Park daily activities visiting exhibitions Museum Store free parking

Kids VT

Open daily 10 – 5

november 2012

—Parents magazine

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2/24/12 9:52 AM

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I’m really thankful * for good neighbors * create a great space * who help for our kids * to grow up in. We have a small backyard, but the neighborhood has trees to climb, a * * sledding hill and a place to play sardines, a game that’s like rd th hide-and-seek. We don’t have pets, but when our neighbors thru go away, our kids have pets. * th rd th rd rd th It takes a village, and our thru thru * neighbors really are the village.

Nov 23rd - Extra 5% OFF 7am - 10am I’m grateful that the girls want to pursue music and have rd th November 23 thru 26 *May not be combined with any other sale, offer, discount of fundraiser. taken to their instruments — a 5% OFF 7am -23 10am Prior salesrdexcluded and may not be used for purchase of gift cards.

Nov - Extra 5% OFF 7am - 10am they’re getting to be pretty good rd on their violins. I think I’m now rd Nov 23 - Extra 5% OFF 7am - 10am any other sale, offer, discount of fundraiser. the weak link in the Barker not beofcombined ay not be used for*May purchase gift cards.with any other sale, offer, discount of fundraiser.

Family String Band; I’m grateful *May not be combined with any other sale, offer, discount of fundraiser.

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Prior sales excluded and may not be used for purchase of gift cards. they’ll still play with me! e combined with any other sale, offer, discount of fundraiser.

One thing I try not to take for s excluded and may not be used for purchase of gift cards. granted is the ability to create rd our own set of family traditions. k8v-LearningExpress1112.indd 1 10/25/12 3:49 PMWe have to accept so much about the world and the way it is, and we can’t change it. But andy barker in our own family, we can make our own rules and have our own shared understandings and relationships. All four of us get a chance to shape the family in our own way. That’s a great experience to have.

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I think I’m Early Bird Special rd thnow the weak link in the thru Bird Special 23 - Extra 5% Early OFF 7am - 10am barker Family string band; I’m grateful Nov 23 - Extra 5% OFF 7am - 10amthey’ll still Vermont Skating play with me!

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Prior sales excluded and may not be used for purchase of gift cards.

A Basic Skills Skating Badge Program at the Essex Skating Facility Skating Director, Renee Deeghan

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Our programs are open to children of all ages.

Registration Schedule: Fri, Nov. 16, 6-7 pm Sat, Nov. 17, 10-11 am 7 Week Session Open Registration for Both Dates

Children’s Lessons

Wed., Thur. & Fri. Adult Lessons, Sun. 5:45 - 6:45 pm Ice skate rentals available

878-1394

sTewArT Jensen, shelBurne

owner of Jensen sTrATegic mArKeTing serVices

Sons Lars, 10, and Erik, 8

In our house, we celebrate Thanksgiving with a healthy dose of introspection and humble thanks for having enough to eat, a dry and warm place to sleep, loving family, and our good health.

We give thanks for those blessings nightly all month long.

We’re also looking forward to visiting family in Boston — we’ve got a big gathering of folks from all over coming together there, so we’re excited to see them and to go sightseeing with the kids. We’re also thankful for the rapidly approaching winter — we’re all avid skiers. We like to get out and take some early-season hikes to get conditioned and excited for the upcoming ski season.

Fall is also the time when my wife re-trenches herself in the kitchen. She makes great soup and does a lot of bread baking. She also makes the world’s best pumpkin-spice chocolate-chip cookies — that’s something we’re all thankful for.

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greg BrAnd, underhill owner of weB-design firm Bluehouse group

*Daughters Nina, 21, and Lindsey, 15

I’m very thankful for how much our family still talks to each other. Now that we have a daughter who’s out of the house, the times when we get together for a meal, or to play cards, are even more special.

When they’re teenagers, most kids are actively trying to become their own person, and by 21 might not always think they need parents. I’m just thankful that we can still have interesting conversations with them about the world and about their lives.

I’m also grateful that my kids have a love of the outdoors.

When they were little, they’d talk about hiking like it was a forced march through the woods, but now that Nina’s older, she’s going hiking and camping with her friends. Lo and behold, she likes it! You never know what’s going to stick.

Many of the things they resist or ignore actually end up becoming part of who they are.

Joe mcVeigh, middleBury AuThor And english-lAnguAge TeAching consulTAnT

Son Nathaniel, 8

We’re really grateful that our son, Nat, had a good experience in the opera Madama Butterfly at Town Hall Theater in Middlebury last month; he played the role of Madame Butterfly’s son. My wife and I are both singers, so we were happy for him to find something he liked doing and had a good time with.

It was really cool to see him rising to the occasion; when you’re a kid and you’re home with mom and dad, you can get away with a lot of stuff, but that’s not true when you’re part of a production. He was onstage in front of a lot of people and really had to pay attention. It was great to see how very focused he was and how much he ended up loving the experience — especially since he wasn’t sure that he wanted to do it initially.

As a freelance editor and writer, I’m also thankful that my workload and deadlines have lessened a bit. As the weather has gotten colder, we’ve had some fires in the fireplace and have played checkers in the evenings — it’s nice to have some of the professional pressure taken off so that I have time to hang out and be with my family.

— IntervIews compIled by lIndsay J. westley

“Go Ask Dad” is a monthly feature in which we ask fathers to answer a question. Got a question or a pop you’d like to hear from?

Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

eat. Learn. PLaY.

Q ThE arT oF

Playing the Piano

bY LI n D saY j. west L eY

matthew thorsen

EighT-yEar-old Addie DeLeonardis-Page perches on the edge of the piano bench, legs dangling, as she works her way through “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” She only misses one or two notes, but corrects herself after a quick glance at piano teacher Randal Pierce.

“Wait, no, it goes up, not down,” she mutters, before plunking the right key.

Pierce, Addie’s instructor since September, praises her for using her wrist correctly when striking the keys, then asks her what she’d like to work on next. She launches into a rendition of “Ode to Joy” — by heart.

“My sister plays that on Randal Pierce and Addie DeLeonardis-Page violin,” she tells Pierce, who has never heard her play Beethoven. “I try to listen to her and make things up so we can play anything,” he says. “Kids see and together.” understand music differently, so you In that brief exchange, Addie reveals try to figure that out, and then take it the secret behind successful piano further.” lessons, and it has nothing to do with For Addie, this approach means talent: It’s all about discovering what’s playing a game in which Pierce points to fun. Pierce, a local composer, performer a note on the page of music, and Addie and now full-time teacher, encourages plays the note on the keyboard. He points her interest. to notes all over a page of sheet music, “Parents tell me stories about how sending her up and down the octaves their old piano teachers were really rigid to find the correct notes and explaining and enforced really strict discipline, how the treble staff (for upper notes) and which can be as big a deterrent as bass clef (for low notes) differ. She’s only

Pierce notes that parents — even non-musical ones — can help their child learn the piano by putting music on around the house. “Even from an early age, what you associate with music and what speaks to you is really personal,” he says. “Just listen and talk about music as much as you can — it doesn’t have to be any certain kind.

Just let them express how it makes them feel.”

For Addie, it’s all about practicing so she can accompany her violinist big sister.

“I got a keyboard for Christmas, and now we can play ‘Hot Cross Buns’ and ‘Twinkle, Twinkle’ and ‘Ode to Joy,’” Addie says. “I mostly like playing along with her best.” K

whaT you’ll nEEd: been taking lessons for a few months, but already has a good grasp of what the notes are and how they relate to one another.

Not all students respond cheerfully when piano teachers suggest new songs, though. For the reluctant learners, Pierce says he just has to keep working at it until he finds something that interests them. “I happen to find music and piano really interesting stuff, so there’s usually something I can find that strikes a kid’s interest,” he says.

a piano or keyboard. If you don’t have a piano, and don’t intend to buy one, Pierce recommends getting a weighted keyboard that imitates the force needed to strike an actual piano key. Pierce suggests looking for one at advance music in burlington. they carry sheet music, too. randal Pierce gives lessons out of his home for kids ages 6 and up. half-hour lessons are $25; hour-long lessons are $40. Daytime lessons are available for home-schooled kids or kids with flexible schedules; he teaches adults, too. Info, randalpiercepianostudio.com.

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

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s y o T e r e W Us

A nostalgia-fueled gift guide to holiday shopping for your kids

BY NANCY STEARNS BERCAW

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I

Scene & Herd

t’s impossible for me to shop for my son without thinking about the things I loved as a kid. And I can’t help but compare this era’s offerings with Back in its “hayday,” the Fisher-Price Family Farm occupied a those of mine. What could hold a candle to Litecategory unto itself. Cooped-up kids spent hours rearranging Brite? Which board game could corner the market better the animals and white fences. And lo, that glorious “moo” as than Monopoly? How could Weebles ever be toppled? Just you opened the barn door. Here are a few modern-day variathinking about an Easy-Bake Oven warms the cockles of my tions on the barnyard heart. and animal Luckily, some of those old favorites are still around.

Between reproductions of Raggedy Ann and Andy, which are themes. available at the Vermont Country Store, and re-releases of Gumby that can be found at Homeport, our progeny are privy to the past. Besides, Barbie is still kicking back with Ken — although their digs have evolved from a camper to a hot-tub party bus. And little buckaroos around the world continue to have access to a wooden hobby horse because of Vermont’s Want the homegrown Maple Landmark Woodcraft. reprise of the But times do change. In a particularly delightful turn of real deal? Look no events, some styles have done a Freaky Friday flip-flop. Thanks further than the FISHERto the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, there are footie pajamas PRICE LITTLE PEOPLE ANIMAL for adults. Courtesy of Zutano come bow ties for babies. All of SOUNDS FARM. Ages 1-5, $49.99, Kids City which remind me of a recent night when I curled up on the couch Young MacDonalds will “E-I-E-I-oh” over and watched the original Planet of the Apes with my son and our Horse around with STABLEMATES’ the MELISSA & DOUG FOLD & GO BARN, a sock monkey.

COUNTRY STABLE WITH WASH STALL, self-contained, two-story wooden barn with a two-stall barn with four corral Then there’s the improvement movement. Eco-Dough, made seven farm animals and a folding corral. fences, tack storage and loft with with gluten-free rice and natural dyes, rivals Play-Doh’s recipe.

Ages 3+, $49.99, Kids City moveable ladder. Ages 4+, $40, Jamie The same principle drives Green Toys, a company that makes Absolute beginners can meet and greet Two Coats cars and trucks from 100-percent recycled plastic milk containers the barn animals with PLAN TOYS POP-UP Tomorrow’s vets can check sick farm instead of VOC-laden plastic from China.

FARM. Ages 1+, $16, Jamie Two Coats animals into the CRITTER CLINIC, Parodies abound, too. Goodnight Moon, which has charmed Little doggies learn to “git along” on a a self-contained animal clinic that sleepyheads for generations, recently spawned Goodnight iPad — MELISSA & DOUG HORSE GIANT STUFFED comes with two plush patients and ANIMAL, 35 inches tall. Ages 3+, $99.99, a hospital with six rooms. Ages 2+, last line reads, “Goodnight gadgets everywhere.”

Buttered Noodles $44.99, Woodbury Mountain Toys If, like me, you long for certain toys of yore, consider the following newfangled renditions for your youngsters. I’ve categorized each grouping based on my own “if you liked that, your kids might like this” logic. This holiday season, it’s time to think outside the Xbox.

Guys & Dolls My brother and I played out our differences with toys.

When his Stretch Armstrong tugged at my paper dolls, I had no choice but to have Barbie throw Chewbacca in the toilet.

In cahoots, though, we tied my troll doll’s pink hair to his troll doll’s purple hair. If we were back at it today, here’s what might make our play/hit list.

PAPER FASHIONS, by Klutz, which include 12 itty-bitty wire hangers (sorry, Joan Crawford), double-sided patterned paper, vellum specialty paper, glue, stencils, sequins, colored seed beads, craft jewels, ribbon, cording and faux-fur trim. Ages 8+, $21.99, Kids City FOREST FOLK, from the Felting Source, features easy instructions to make leprechauns, gnomes and trolls for ornaments, pins or play. Kit includes green felt, pine-cone felt and wool fleece — and makes three dolls. Ages 8+, $14.95, Jamie Two Coats LULU REHEMA KIBWANA DOLL, by Karito Kids, is an 11-year-old soccer player from Nairobi who hosts a TV show called “KenyaKidz.” Her kit includes a hardcover book. Ages 3-13, $99.99, Woodbury Mountain Toys The KIMOCHIS CLOUD BOX SET comes with three pillowy plushies known as “Kimochis,” or “feelings” in Japanese. Each Kimochi represents a human emotion such as happiness or sadness. Ages 8+, $29.99, Homeport The AMAZING FLYING MONKEY is a super-stretchy chimp who slingshots through the air (up to 50 feet) with a screech. This tiny toy is totally bananas. Ages 4+, $5.99, Homeport The 15-INCH VINTAGE CHRISTMAS BEAR with plaid scarf is a foolproof offering for any gender or generation. Ages 3-103, $64.99, Vermont Teddy Bear Company

BLOKUS is a strategy board game that challenges spatial thinking — just like its predecessor, Hex. Ages 5+, $29.99, most toy retailers and bookstores a-mazeCelebrating 25 years of aing fun is the RAVENSBURGER LABYRINTH ANNIVERSARY EDITION FAMILY GAME, which earned the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal.

Ages 8-15, $29.99, most toy retailers and bookstores

A decade old, but still fresh, is APPLES TO APPLES, a party-card game of hilarious comparisons in which players’ strategies must change with each new dealer. Ages 12+, $26.99, most toy retailers and some bookstores

If that 1000-piece American flag puzzle wasn’t hard enough, try the AFRICAN SAVANNAH 1000 PIECE MAGIC 3-D JIGSAW PUZZLE by Clementoni, with uniquely shaped pieces. A pair of 3-D glasses is included. Ages 10+, $15.99, Kids City

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After a nice Salisbury-steak TV dinner, families of the ’50s and ’60s turned away from the boob tube to focus on the game of Life. Plenty more games give the modern family a reason to turn off the plasma HDTV and play together.

NOVEMBER 2012

Across the Board

The AXIS & ALLIES franchise, now in its 25th year, continues to add to its offerings of board games set in World War II. In Axis & Allies Pacific, the main powers (players) draw their battle lines against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Ages 12+, $89.99, Kids City

KIDSVT.COM

A few years ago, BANANAGRAMS came on the scene, challenged players to arrange their words on a grid faster than their opponents could — and sent Scrabble scrambling. Ages 7+, $14.99, most toy retailers and bookstores

Toys Were Us

CONTINUED FROM P. 19

Dr. Whoseywhatsit Signature gifts of the mid-to-late 20th century had such marvelous monikers as Silly Putty, Slip ’n Slide, Sit ’n Spin, Lite-Brite, Rubik’s Cube and Etch A Sketch. Today’s novelty gifts may have more lackluster nomenclature, but many have a fun, retro slant. Here’s a sampling of back-to-the-future bounty.

Shrinky Dinks’ THE ELF ON THE SHELF KIT features pre-cut characters that kids color, pop in the oven and watch transform. Ages 7+, 24.99, Learning Express Trash Pack’s TRASHIES collectibles, reminiscent of Garbage Pail Kids and advertised as “the gross gang in your garbage,” are teeny tiny, squishy dis-figurines with names like Putrid Pretzel and Cery-Ill. Ages 5+, $2.99, Buttered Noodles Hit it out of the Jurassic Park with SMITHSONIAN PREHISTORIC SEA MONSTERS, which gives kids the rare chance to grow an ancient pet in an aquarium. Ages 8+, $14.99, Kids City MARS MUD, by Toysmith, is an ooey gooey, marbled, space-age slime putty that makes sounds and bounces. Ages 5+, $1.99, Buttered Noodles ZUBE TUBE, billed as the “ultimate cosmic sound machine,” is a space kazoo of sorts. Shout into it. Shake it. Pluck it. All ages, $11.99, Buttered Noodles

Going Up Building sets just don’t get much better than LEGOs, Lincoln Logs and Tinker Toys, despite attempts to expand on their impressive foundation. For budding architects, we submit these presents firmly rooted in the past.

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KIDSVT.COM

Roy Toy’s CLASSIC FORT is a wooden building set that comes in a canister, à la Lincoln Logs, with 140 interlocking pieces. Ages 4+, $27.50, Jamie Two Coats, Woodbury Mountain Toys SET, with a step-by-step construction SUPERSTRUCTS SUPER SET guide, shows you how to build a working Ferris wheel, carousel and large crane by tinkering with 230 colorful pieces of rods, connectors, panels and tires. Ages 4-8, $64.99, Woodbury Mountain Toys LEGO BRICKS & MORE BUILDERS OF TOMORROW SET comes with 650 bricks in white, orange, red, blue, yellow, brown, black, dark green and light green. Better yet is what these bricks don’t come with — preconceived notions. Ages 4+, $34.99, Kids City THE DA VINCI CATAPULT KIT lets kids create their own hurling machine (complete with a lump of clay for lobbing) based on the artist’s original plans.

Ages 12+, $19.99, Kids City Valtech’s 3-D MAGNA-TILES are magnetized pieces that attach along their sides to make basic 3-D shapes, such as cubes and pyramids. Tiles come in cool, transparent colors. Ages 3+, $51.50, Buttered Noodles Don’t forget BEADS! All sizes, shapes, stones and strings can become art, necklaces, rings or just about anything. Ages and prices vary, Bead Crazy, Creative Habitat

I PLAY SUPER SKIPPER, by Kidoozie, requires kids to jump over a revolving pole while listening to groovy tunes. Great for coordination and balance. Ages 3+, $39.99, Buttered Noodles

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The hot wheels of progress have been turning since the Neolithic Age. But it wasn’t until Joshua Lionel Cowen sold his first electric train in 1901 to a store in Manhattan that children literally were sold on the idea. These days, the locomotion and automation toy market shows no sign of slowing down.

Team Hot Wheels’ DOUBLE DARE SNARE includes two lanes, two cars and a heart-stopping loop that ends in a dangerous jump. The faster car is saved by a snare; the slower car plummets to the bottom. Ages 4+, $29.99, Kids City Moving in on Thomas the Tank Engine’s territory is CALLEY’S RESCUE SET,

by Tomy International Chuggington Wooden Railway. This kit offers two rescue cars and two hazard areas, in addition to train characters Calley and Wilson, and lots of track. Ages 3+, $124.99, Kids City, Jamie Two Coats, Buttered Noodles Young imaginations soar with the Kid-O AIRPLANE, which features a sleek design to keep living rooms looking ship shape instead of like a rug rat’s runway.

Ages 1+, $18.99, Buttered Noodles The Quercetti SKYRAIL MARBLE RUN ROLLER COASTER teaches basic principles of mechanics and physics — gravity, speed, inertia and weight — using a roller coaster for marbles. Ages 8+, $64.99, Buttered Noodles Automoblox’s RED SPORTS CAR is a classic wooden toy car for the iPod age. The sleek car blends ultra-modern styling with a mix-and-match design. Ages 3-10, $39.99, Kids City, Jamie Two Coats, Buttered Noodles

KIDSVT.COM

PUSH N PULL TRUCK, made in Middlebury, is crafted from locally sourced, responsibly harvested maple with hardwood components, laser detailing on both sides and no finish ... just wood and glue. Ages 6 months+, $18.60, Maple Landmark Woodcraft

NOVEMBER 2012 KIDS VT

21

COPEing Divorce

22

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

with

DIVORCE CAN BE A MESSY, PAINFUL PROCESS, especially for parents. When childless couples split, they may never speak to each other again. But no matter how acrimonious their break-ups, most parents still have to communicate at some point about their kids.

Navigating those relationships can be challenging for everyone. In Vermont, parents get help from the Coping with Separation and Divorce Seminars, aka COPE. Vermont’s family court judges require the fourhour workshop for all parents of minor children who file for separation, divorce, civil-union dissolution, establishment of parentage, and changes in parental rights and responsibilities — formerly referred to as custody.

COPE teaches parents strategies for communicating with kids and each other, and reassures them that they can guide their families through the transition.

Heather Twombley Ruggles of St. Johnsbury took the class in 2011. She remembers sobbing through much of it, but says it was helpful.

“I knew what I didn’t want to happen,” she says of the aftermath of her divorce, “but I couldn’t exactly say what I wanted to happen.” She knew she had to shield her daughter, Molly, then 12, from the impact of the break-up, but she didn’t know how. COPE provided some strategies.

“I don’t think any two parents think they’re going to end up in our class,” says Susan Fay, a mediator who’s been an instructor for the program since its inception 20 years ago. She helped write the handbook. “When they start having children their intention is to be together ...

But if both parents focus on the needs of the children, the children can come out of this really just fine.”

That’s a welcome message for divorcing parents.

Approximately 200 participants a month attend COPE seminars, which take place at 12 locations around the state. The workshop costs $50, though courts offer a sliding-scale fee based on financial need.

Although the class is required for individuals going through a divorce, it’s open to anyone. Parents who are

A court-ordered class for parents helps ease the transition

BY C AT H Y R E SME R W I T H R E P OR T I N G BY K R IS T IN F L E T C H E R

considering separation, or caregivers who want advice on co-parenting after a break-up, can also attend.

Each seminar is led by a male and female instructor, many of whom have backgrounds in social work. They help participants see separation and divorce from a child’s perspective and explain the grieving process everyone experiences during a reorganization of the family unit.

If both parents focus on the needs of the children,

the children can come out of this just fine.

SUSAN FAY

On a recent September afternoon, 17 participants gathered in Barre’s family court for their COPE class, led by Judy Cyprian and Rob Chickering. The participants ranged from young men and women to middle-aged moms and dads, representing a variety of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds — a true cross-section of Vermont. The only thing they seemed to have in common was their role as parents or caregivers; as a group, they were responsible for 33 children, ages 7 months to 31 years.

The class began with an anonymous written survey asking participants how they felt about being there, and inviting them to name one thing they wanted for their kids.

Fay, who has led this exercise many times, says answers to the first question typically range from tortured to optimistic. Responses to the second question, however, tend to be universally consistent.

“We’ve asked that of thousands of parents, and the answers are always that they want their children to have a happy life; to love and know both parents; to come out with the least possible harm — for them to feel safe and loved,” she says.

After the survey, the Barre instructors attempted to help parents see separation and divorce from the point of view of a child. One of their tools: video interviews with kids.

In role-playing exercises, instructors played both child and adult in various conversations, illustrating where communication breakdowns happen and how to avoid them. The exercises offered parents various strategies for helping children express their emotions.

Kids might feel they’re to blame for their parents’ split; getting them to talk about their feelings helps parents dispel that notion. Some kids need to be told repeatedly the divorce is not their fault.

The instructors also emphasized the damage to children when parents fight in front of them, or within earshot, and covered ways to communicate with an ex without harming the kids. They advised parents not to pressure kids to take sides or use them to deliver messages to the other parent.

The participants weren’t just learning from the instructors; they also had opportunities to share with and support each other. They commiserated about the confusion that can arise when different households have different expectations, and they talked frankly about how to respond when the other parent is mired in sadness.

Not surprisingly, the conversations in these classes aren’t always so positive. Some parents resent having to be there, as the four-hour session may necessitate missing work — and wages — and potentially paying for childcare. Defenses are up; emotions are raw. Ruggles says the angrier parents dominated the discussions in her class.

But without talking to others who understand the experience, she says, “there’s no one to guide you or

KidsVT.com november 2012 Kids VT

23

CoPeing with Divorce P. 25 »

Thomas James

give you advice. You’re just trying to feel your way in the dark.”

Vermont started providing that guidance about 20 years ago. In 1990, a state law created a separate family court system to handle parental disputes. Soon after, University of Vermont professor Larry Shelton, a trained clinical child psychologist, developed a course for graduate students called Parenting Through Separation and Divorce, which is still offered today. It was based on his decade of experience working with courts on behalf of children in parental-rights cases.

At that time a UVM Extension agent, Judy Brook was a student in his first class. She researched an Atlanta workshop for parents that then became the basis for COPE. By 1992, with the backing of prominent judge Shireen Avis Fisher and the support of UVM Extension Services, Shelton and Brook were piloting the first COPE program in Orange County.

“It turned out to be very helpful to the parents and to the court,” says Shelton. “We began to get requests to extend it to other counties.” Although they were skeptical at first, within three years the presiding judges in every Vermont county had adopted the program.

It was a harder sell to attorneys. Shelton says they were initially wary of the kind of advice their clients might hear at the seminars.

“What we brought to them was a different model that was focused on parenting the kids,” Shelton says.

But they eventually came around, too.

Since then, a variety of programs similar to COPE have sprung up all over the country, though most are voluntary.

Meanwhile, Shelton points out the COPE curriculum has been rewritten and revised from the original Atlanta model to incorporate current research and the experiences of its instructors, who meet once a year to compare notes and evaluate the materials. “Everyone who has taught it is transformed by it,” Shelton says.

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CoPeing with Divorce ContinueD from P. 23

thomas James

“We try to get together, share new experiences and new solutions, and tweak the curriculum.”

That includes incorporating new technologies.

Marcia Bedig, COPE program manager, offers an example of an anecdote a parent once shared that has now become part of the workshop. The parent described taking a child to the beach and building a sandcastle, then texting a photo of the sandcastle to the other parent, so he or she could share in the experience. This kind of non-face-to-face communication is particularly useful, Bedig says, “if things are difficult, or if there’s been domestic violence.” It’s an easy way for parents to honor the other parent’s relationship with the child, without actually having to communicate much with each other.

COPE also connects participants with online resources, such as sharekids.com, a tool that enables parents to share scheduling information and photos with each other and with other relatives.

Of course, the internet can also make things harder.

Bedig says the class now talks about Facebook, and sharing on email and social media — how it’s sometimes better to write an email, then sleep on it before sending it, for example. “We do a lot of talking about how these tools can be helpful and not helpful,” she says.

COPE can’t fix everything, Shelton points out. He

notes that many divorces involve people with significant problems, such as alcohol and drug abuse, anger issues, or mental health challenges — problems the workshop touches on, but can’t possibly solve in four hours.

“Half of the families in Vermont walk through … family court at a time when everybody’s hurting, and it would be the perfect time as a society to put them in touch with every kind of therapeutic, counseling and educational service available,” he says. “Family court gave us a way to find out how many problems there really were, but we still haven’t done much to tackle those problems.”

COPE is a good start, though. At the very heart of the program, Shelton notes, is a lesson in interpersonal skills — actively listening to children, keeping grownup communications respectful and businesslike, and practicing empathy for all involved.

Those are skills Ruggles, who teaches 3- to 5-yearolds at a Head Start preschool, has made a concerted effort to adopt.

She says the class helped her deal with her own situation, but it’s also helped her relate better to the families with whom she works. “For people that are going through this, this is a main focus for them, and other parts of their life take a backseat,” she says. “I get it now. I didn’t before.”

Another thing she got: the importance of putting her child’s needs first. “If you act in their best interest,” she says, “they’re going to be okay.” K

KidsVT.com november 2012 Kids VT

25

k2h-100Hands1112.indd 1

10/24/12 11:14 AM

Like Fletcher Allen Health Care on Facebook and get weekly updates from Dr. First!

See “First with Kids” videos at FletcherAllen.org/firstwithkids

CALENDAR SPOTLIGHTS AND LISTINGS BY KATE LADDISON

26

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2012 KIDSVT.COM

Talkin’ Tom While you’re tucking into your Thanksgiving dinner, turkeys in the wild are scratching up their own meal from leaf litter on the forest floor: acorns, beechnuts, beetles, spiders and worms. Brush up on more fun facts about our feathered friends at this month’s hour-long preschool program from Audubon Vermont: LET’S TALK TURKEYS. Kids learn to spot the differences between males and females, listen to their calls, and then head outside to pretend to be toms and hens themselves, building nests, hunting, hiding and roosting. Youngsters finish the session with a turkey version of the “Hokey Pokey,” shaking about their snoods, spurs and wattles.

LET’S TALK TURKEYS: Thursday, November 15, Education Barn, Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 for each additional child. Info, 434-3068, vt.audubon.org

COURTESY OF AUDUBON VERMONT

NOV

Sponsored by:

nov calendar Our next issue will be on newsstands for December and January.

Submit events for both months by November 15 at kidsvt.com.

1 THURSDAY

Arts

Art Explorers: A story, music and movement augment creation stations that include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture and printmaking activities. Children may be dropped off or parents may stay. Ages 3-5. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 3-4:30 p.m. $10 drop-in. Info, 457-3500.

Little Chefs Cooking Class: Kid chefs toss together a pizza and bake cookies. Ages 3-5. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. $24. Info, 316-1510.

Mom’s Matinee: Parents and their wee ones catch a flick with dimmed lights and baby-friendly volumes.

Palace 9, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. $6-7.50; free for kids under 2. Info, 864-5610.

Pollywog Drop-In Art: Tots get their art fix with a variety of craft materials, from homemade play dough to colorful ribbons. Ages 6 months-5 years accompanied by adult. Burlington City Arts, 9:3011:30 a.m. $5-6 per child/parent pair. Info, 865-7166.

Baby & Maternity

Breast-Feeding Support Group: Lactating moms bring their babies and share stories, advice and company. Preregister. Family Birthing Center, Northwest Medical Center, St. Albans, first Thursday of every month, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 524-7970.

La Leche League of Essex: Moms and little ones meet to discuss parenting and breast-feeding.

Pregnant and planning moms are also welcome.

First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, first Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 383-8544.

Middlebury La Leche League: Breast-feeding moms and kids gather for fun and conversation. Expectant mothers welcome, too. Junebug Mother and Child, Middlebury, first Thursday of every month, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 382-1589.

Community

Candy Buyback: Peeps looking to offload their Halloween take are paid $1 per pound for the sweet stuff, with another $1 donated to Vermont flood relief. Champlain Orthodontic Associates, Burlington.

Free. Info, 862-6721.

Education

Ending the Homework Battle: Webinar attendees get tips on strategies for helping with homework, giving incentives and reducing anxiety. Preregister.

Building Strong Families, 8-9 p.m. Free. Info, 1-866544-4075, strongfamilies.us.

Fairs & Festivals

Health & Fitness

Postnatal Yoga: Sore shoulders and backs feel some stretch and abdominal muscles get a tone-up in a class designed for moms and their pre-crawling kids. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, first Thursday of every month, 1:30 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

Cochran’s Ski & Ride Sale: See spotlight, pg. 38.

Duct Tape Parenting Signing: Parenting on Track creator Vicki Hoefle discusses and signs her new book, which takes a less-is-more approach to raising resilient children. 51 Main at the Bridge, Middlebury, 8 p.m. Free. Info, 388-8209.

Fairfax PJ Story Hour: Children don pajamas to listen to a story and make a craft before bedtime. Ages birth-6. Fairfax Community Library, first Thursday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Food for Thought: Teen volunteers chow down on pizza and work on library projects. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, first Thursday of every month, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Hand in Hand: This kid-initiated volunteer group creates “birthday boxes” for local food pantries.

School-aged children. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, first Thursday of every month, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 388-4097.

Highgate Youth Advisory: Kids in grades 5-8 plan projects with the Crossroads After-School Program.

Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 3-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Homeschoolers’ Book Group: Out-of-classroom learners gather for talks on a variety of books. Regular attendance required. Preregister. Ages 10-14. St. Albans Free Library, first Thursday of every month, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Dancin’ With My Baby: Rock, reggae, pop, hip-hop and more inspire movement in parents and young dancers. Ages 6 weeks to preschool. Windancer Movement Center, Middlebury, 10-11:15 a.m. $12 drop-in. Info, 388-3381.

Kids Open Gymnastics: Tykes tumble and jump while adults connect with other families. Snacks provided. River Arts, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. $510. Info, 888-1261.

Open Gym: Free play in the gym gives kids a chance to burn off excess energy. Ages birth-10; ages 10 and up 5-7 p.m. Sunrise Gymnastics, Barre, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. & 3-5 p.m. $10 per child, $5 each additional sibling. Info, 223-0517.

Library & Books

After-School Movie: Film buffs put up their feet and watch a flick, popcorn in hand. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Arts

Arts

Preschool Clay Drop-In: Fledgling potters craft cool stuff using the wheel or working by hand. Preschool ages. Burlington City Arts, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $6.

Info, 865-7166.

Community

Candy Buyback: See November 1.

First Friday Family Dance: Supper kicks off a wholesome evening of live music and dancing. All ages. Worcester Town Hall, first Friday of every month, 5:30-10 p.m. $5-12. Info, 229-0173.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Dance & Drum Festival: See November 1.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: Basketball-loving high school students spend the afternoon dribbling, shooting and scoring. Preregister. St. Albans City Hall, 2:303:45 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Winooski Family Gym: See November 1.

Library & Books

Friends of the Library Book Sale: See November 2.

9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Kids Craft: Glitter, felt, bottle caps, paper and paint transform into holiday-themed ornaments. All supplies included. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.

Giant Book Sale: See November 2. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Nature & Science

3 SATURDAY

Friends of the Library Book Sale: Readers of all ages browse thousands of books for sale. Proceeds the library collection and programming. Rutland Free Library, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Info, 773-1860.

Enosburg Tumble Time: Children burn off some extra energy with playtime in the gym. Ages birth6. Enosburg Elementary School, Enosburg Falls, first Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Nature & Science

2 FRIDAY

First Friday Youth Classical Music Concert: Young instrumentalists perform polished pieces in an aesthetically and acoustically beautiful setting.

All ages. Christ the King Church, Burlington, 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Donations support young musicians in need. Info, 864-6411.

Cochran’s Ski & Ride Sale: See spotlight, pg. 38.

Russian Story Time: Children find new friends while listening to stories and songs presented in a new language. English speakers welcome. Age birth-5. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Shelburne Magic Club: Illusionists practice card tricks and share their most successful sleights of hand.

Grades 5-8. Pierson Library, Shelburne, first Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

Family Clay Drop-In: Parents join kids for some work on the wheel. All ages. Burlington City Arts, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $5-6 includes one glazed/fired piece; $5 per additional piece. Info, 865-7166.

Health & Fitness

Giant Book Sale: Shoppers browse and buy gently used titles with proceeds benefiting the library.

Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Free. Info, 388-4097.

Let’s Talk About Race: Story Hour: Literature and personal stories engage kids and their caregivers in conversations about race and racism in the United States. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

‘A Year With Frog and Toad’: Young thespians wow the crowds with their interpretation of this musical children’s classic. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, 4 & 7 p.m. Free. Info, 355-1461.

Butter Making: Children churn up golden goodness. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 11:30 a.m. $5-8; free for kids under 3. Info, 985-8686.

‘A Year With Frog and Toad’: See November 2. 7 p.m.

Mixed Media Drop-In: Kid-creators craft boats, prints, masks, cards and clay projects in a hands-on session. All ages. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $12. Info, 985-3648.

Saturday Drama Club: Thespians help Very Merry Theatre produce a show in just three hours. All ages. Preregister. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $15 (or pay what you can). Info, 863-6607.

Saturday Youth Art Studio Drop-In: Paint, draw, sculpt and more in the studio classroom with provided materials. Parents may stay or drop kids off.

Ages 6-12. Burlington City Arts, every other Saturday, 1-3 p.m. $9-10. Info, 860-7474.

Education

Ending the Homework Battle: See November 1.

12-1 p.m.

Kids Workshops: Children learn do-it-yourself skills and tool safety as they build a different project each session. Ages 5-12. Home Depot, Williston, first Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon. Free.

Info, 872-0039.

Queen City Chess Club: See spotlight, pg. 28.

Saxon Hill School Fall Open House: Curious caregivers explore a parent-cooperative preschool, getting information from staff and family members.

Ages 3-5. Saxon Hill School, Jericho, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 899-2400.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Dance & Drum Festival: See November 1.

Fossils: Science enthusiasts handle preserved remains and use clues to guess their origins. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Moonlit Wagon Rides: Horses draw the wagons while you take in the evening scenery and night sky.

Snacks and activities at the education center follow.

All ages. Preregister. Shelburne Farms, 5:15, 6, 6:45 & 7:30 p.m. $7-10. Info, 985-8686.

4 SUNDAY

Education

Open House: Prospective students meet faculty, students and staff to learn about the school’s rigorous, hands-on curriculum. Ages 10-16. Vermont Commons School, South Burlington, 1 p.m. Free.

Info, 865-8084.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Dance & Drum Festival: See November 1.

Wagon-Ride Weekend: See November 3.

Health & Fitness

Burlington Family Gym: See November 2.

Cochran’s Ski & Ride Sale: See spotlight, pg. 38.

Open Gym: See November 2.

Postnatal Yoga: See November 1. First Sunday of every month, 12:15 p.m.

YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: Girls learn about themselves through movement, games and crafts. Ages 7-11.

Preregister. Chabad Jewish Community Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon, $10. Info, 318-3598.

Nature & Science

Berlin Pond Waterfowl Walk: Birders look for lingering loons and other waterfowl that haven’t made their fall migration. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 7:30-10 a.m. $5-15; free for kids.

Info, 229-6206.

4 sunday, p. 28

27

Wagon-Ride Weekend: Relax with the family during narrated tours around Billings’ fields, and don’t miss the farm’s other programs and activities.

Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $3-12; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Family Camp-In at the Museum: Families explore the Montshire on an overnight adventure that includes a nighttime walk and a peek at the sunrise from the tower. Preregister. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 5:30 p.m. $35. Info, 649-2200.

Kids VT

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

Library & Books

Food

november 2012

Hot Mama Workout: Kids are welcome to hang out while moms squeeze in some fitness. City Hall Gymnasium, St. Albans, 9-10 a.m. $10 or free with preregistration. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Burlington Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment provides active fun for kids and their parents.

Ages 7 and under. YMCA, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-8993.

kidsvt.com

Vermont Dance & Drum Festival: Four days of West African music and movement inspire all ages during this Jeh Kulu Dance and Drum Theater event. Artists from Guinea, Senegal and Mali share their rhythms during workshops and performances, including a Saturday class just for kids and presentations by Jeh Kulu’s youngest members.

Preregister to participate in classes. Burlington City Hall. Free to watch. Info, 859-1802.

Winooski Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment gives tumblers a chance to burn off some energy. Ages birth to 7. YMCA, Winooski, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-9622.

courTeSy oF queen ciTy cHeSS club

nov calendar

On Board Want to get your kids involved in a brain-building activity? rook no further. The QuEEN ciTY cHEss cLuB’s Saturday morning drop-in sessions are open to kids ages 5 through 14. Players get a quick lesson, solve puzzles and play games while coaches encourage critical thinking and empathy in a low-pressure environment. Paul Fitzgerald started the group four years ago when his son, then in kindergarten, started playing chess. With support from South burlington’s Healthy living market & café, which hosts the sessions, the kids in the club are playing — and winning — at state chess tournaments, and challenging adults from the burlington chess club.

QuEEN ciTY cHEss cLuB: Saturdays from September through May, Healthy Living Market & Café, South Burlington, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 324-8450.

5 MONDAY

4 suNdAY (conTinued)

cells!: Inquisitive eyes compare plant, animal and even their own cheek cells under museum microscopes. Ages 9 and older. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Hoopster Gliders: Creativity soars as kids craft a flying contraption. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Arts

imagination studio: Kids apply their minds to creative projects with supplied tools and materials.

Ages 5 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Baby & Maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: Moms-in-the-making give their full attention to relaxation and strength building. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. $15. Info, 778-0300.

Yoga After Baby: New moms focus on their core, pelvic floor and arm strength, bringing their infants

along if they choose. Shambala Center, Montpelier, 11 a.m.-noon. $10. Info, 778-0300.

Community

candy Buyback: See November 1.

Education

Ending the Homework Battle: See November 1.

3-4 p.m. spanish immersion class: Join an experienced Spanish teacher for an interactive music class teaching language basics through songs and games especially designed for ages 1 to 6. Preregister.

Tulsi Tea Room, Montpelier, 9-9:45 a.m. $16. Info, 917-1776.

Health & Fitness

28

Kids VT

november 2012 KidsVT.com

Classes

List your class or camp here for only $15/month! submit the listing by the 15th at kidsvt.com or to classes@kidsvt.com.

Green mountain music Together: Cost: contact for info. Location: Burlington, Colchester, Shelburne, VT. Contact info: Alison Mott at 310-2230, greenmountainmusic@ gmail.com. Description: Green Mountain Music Together at www. greenmountainmusictogether.com offers family music classes for parents and caregivers and their children from babies to toddlers to preschoolers. Music Together pioneered the concept of a research-based, developmentally appropriate early childhood music curriculum that strongly emphasizes and facilitates adult involvement.

The Parent operative: Six-week series starting September 20, November 8 and January 10. Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Cost: $280. Location: 34 Patchen Road, South Burlington. Contact info: Heather Lynch, MA, associatesinpsychotherapy.net, 6584208. Description: The Parent Operative is a psychologist-facilitated support and educational group for parents and caregivers of all kinds. The objective is to create a supportive environment to reduce stress

and increase confidence when parenting a spirited child.

Preschool and Youth classes/camps at wingspan studio: Pre-School FRART! Weekly on Fri., Nov. 2-Dec. 14 (no class Nov. 23), 12:30-1:30 p.m., $125, ages 2-5 w/ adult, and weekly on Mon., Nov. 12-Dec. 17, 11 a.m.-noon. After-school: ART/NATURE Explore! Theme-Animal Tracking and Habitats, Weekly on Mon., Nov. 12-Dec. 17, 3:30-5:30 p.m., $175. Thanksgiving Vacation Camp: French Modern Art & Language, Nov. 19-21, 8:30 a.m.-2:30p.m., $200. Christmas Vacation Camp: Found Object Sculpture Treasures, Dec. 27-28, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., $125. Location: wingspan Studio, 4A Howard St., Burlington. Info: Maggie Standley, 2337676, maggiestandley@yahoo.com, http:// wingspanstudio.com/classes.html. Come create, learn and have fun in a beautiful, working artist’s studio. Offerings include Preschool FRART!, parents and preschoolers learn French through art projects, movement and music, ART/NATURE Explore! Afterschool classes use art to explore nature, and vacation camps.

Hoopla: Large, easy-to-use hoops and great music make for a funky, fitness/dance experience. All ages.

Windancer Movement Center, Middlebury, 7-8 p.m. $8-12 per child accompanied by an adult. Info, 388-3381.

Hot mama Workout: See November 1. my First Yoga: Beginners learn simple poses and principles through stories and songs. Ages birth-4.

No session October 8. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

spanish immersion Hour: Join an experienced Spanish teacher for an interactive music class teaching language basics through songs and games especially designed for 1- to 6-year-olds. Preregister. Warren Town Hall, 3:30-4:15 p.m. $16; first session free.

Health & Fitness

dancin’ With my Baby: See November 2. 10:3011:45 a.m.

Library & Books

craftacular Tuesdays: Kids get caught up in lowtech projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, first Tuesday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665. creative Tuesdays: Crafters use their imagination and recycled materials. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Nature & Science

science & stories: Animals in November: Curious kids learn how their furry friends make ready for a long winter. All ages. Preregister. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2.

Info, 877-324-6386.

open Gym: See November 2. 10 a.m.-noon.

7 WEDNESDAY

6 TUESDAY

Arts

Arts

From Page to stage: Young actors explore classic children’s books and bring the characters to life in front of an audience. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, first Tuesday of every month, 3:45-5:45 p.m. $12. Info, 355-1461.

Community

candy Buyback: See November 1.

Kids Vote: Pint-size politicos cast ballots in a mock election and make patriotic crafts. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Education

Parent-child sign Language: Wee ones use their hands to communicate with mom and dad. Ages birth to 5. Preregister. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.

Art for Tots: Children create their own masterpieces using a wide range of materials in a relaxed yet adventurous atmosphere. Ages 18 months-4 years.

Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10-11 a.m. $10 to drop-in. Info, 802 457-3500. creative Kids: Parents and kids roll out play dough and construct with craft materials. Ages 3-5. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 10:3011:30 a.m. $8. Info, 316-1512.

Patchwork: Piecing Together Family History: Vermont author Natalie Kinsey-Warnock discusses the stories that inspire her books, including children’s title The Canada Geese Quilt. All ages.

Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.

Info, 223-3338.

Community

Breast-Feeding-mom support: New mothers get to know each other during this informative and informal session. Children welcome. Grace Church, Rutland, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 747-8665.

NAEYC  Accredited  Preschools  in   Burlington,  Shelburne,  &  Williston Â

Kindergarten—Grade  8  State  Approved  Independent  School Â

milton community youth 8 THURSDAY Dr. First videos coalition meeting: Com“first with Kids� at munity members hear from FletcherAllen.org/ school staff about the Positive firstwithkids a World of complications: Local youth Behavioral Intervations & actors bring an original comedy to the Supports system and how it stage. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, 4 supports teaching and learning. p.m. Free. Info, 355-1461.

Free dinner and childcare provided. Milton Public Library, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-1009. art Explorers: See November 1.

Parent Playgroup: Caregivers share stories and mom’s matinee: See November 1. dessert while crafting a toy to bring home to the Pollywog drop-in art: See November 1. kids. Adults only. South Burlington Community Library, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Arts

Education

Ending the Homework Battle: See November 1.

10-11 a.m. social Thinking: Kids with nonverbal learning disabilities, Asperger’s syndrome and high-functioning autism develop their social skills. Call for times. Ages 6-17. Preregister. Maple Leaf Clinic, Wallingford, Info, 446-3577.

Education

ViNs Homeschooling series: Educators foster kids’ curiosities in hands-on programs about streams, fields, forests and animals. Separate sessions for grades 1-3 and 4-6. Preregister. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10-11:30 a.m. $10-12. Info, 359-500, ext 223.

Health & Fitness

Winter Birds: Birds of Vermont staffers get youngsters enthused about birding during a discussion of the winged wonders who winter in Vermont. Milton Historical Museum, 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Info, 734-0758.

Hot mama Workout: See November 1.

Food

duct Tape Parenting signing: Parenting on Track creator Vicki Hoefle signs her new book which takes a less-is-more approach to raising resilient children. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

cookie decorating: Budding bakers doll up treats with sprinkles, frosting, sugar and nuts. Panadero Bakery, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-8278.

Health & Fitness

afternoon Hoops: See November 2.

Kids open Gymnastics: See November 2. open Gym: See November 2, 10 a.m.-noon.

Library & Books

Book discussion: Critical readers voice their thoughts on Dorothy Canfield Fisher Award titles, including The Finger Tips of Duncan Dorfman.

Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

LEGo afternoons: Youngsters create freely from big buckets of building blocks. Parents encouraged to send a snack; popcorn provided. Ages 6 and up. Lincoln Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665. may’s music & movement: Kiddos and their caregivers don their dancing shoes for a turn on the floor. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Winooski family Gym: See November 1.

Library & Books

Highgate youth advisory: See November 1.

VolunTeens: Young adults plan events for the library. Grades 7-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

9 FRIDAY

Arts

family clay drop-in: See November 2.

Preschool clay drop-in: See November 2.

Teen movie Night: Young adults see Thor and watch as the powerful but arrogant warrior reignites an ancient war. PG-13. Lincoln Library, 7 p.m.

Free. Info, 453-2665.

Education

Homeschool Project day: Kids learning outside the classroom present projects they’re working on. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

NooK Kids aPPtivity: Tots tap tablets, playing, creating and learning using store-provided NOOK devices and kid-friendly apps. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

Health & Fitness

Nature & Science

Keeping up with the Joneses ?

3/21/12 10:34 AM

Q Habitat

afternoon Hoops: See November 2.

Burlington family Gym: See November 2. dancin’ With my Baby: See November 2. friday Game Night: Nerf games, tag and other active play keep kids happily moving at a Burlington Parks and Recreation-sponsored event. Ages 5-11.

Preregister. Edmunds Elementary School, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. $12. Info, 316-1512.

Kids open Gymnastics: See November 2. open Gym: See November 2.

Waitsfield ski and skate sale: See spotlight, pg. 38.

Get home and garden ideas from your neighbors in our new feature. Habitat (page 43) celebrates places where Vermont families live and play. Do you have a creative space? Email us at ideas@ kidsvt.com

Library & Books

after-school movie: See November 2. spanish stories & music: Kids learn to rhyme, read and sing en espaĂąol. Ages birth-6 and their parents. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Kids VT

Preschool discovery Program: Nature investigators explore hibernation, cold-weather survival and where songbirds have gone. Ages 3-5. No session Thanksgiving week. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 10-11:30 a.m. $5-8. Info, 229-6206.

k4t-heartworksschool0412.indd 1

november 2012

youth media Lab: Aspiring Spielbergs make movies and explore technology in this drop-in collaboration between the library and Middlebury Community Television. Grade 3 and up. Preregister. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

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KidsVT.com

richford PJ story Time: Kids gather with friends for bedtime prep through stories, songs and crafts. Ages birth-6. Arvin A. Library, Richford, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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read to a dog: Rainbow and Nancy listen as kids read aloud during 15-minute time slots that encourage literacy and connection with animals.

Preregister. Fairfax Community Library, free. Info, 849-2420.

movin’ & Groovin’ With christine: Tots let loose to the rhythms of rock and world music. Ages 2-5.

Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 865-7216.

Preschool music With raphael: Little ones dance and sing to guitar tunes. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Â

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NOV CALENDAR

Story Times MONDAY

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

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

Georgia Pajama Story Time: Georgia Public Library, third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 524-4643.

Burlington Stories With Megan: Fletcher Free Library, Nov. 5, 1111:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Colchester Preschool Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Essex Free Drop-In Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 879-0313.

berkshireballet.org

Fairfax Story Hour: Fairfax Community Library. Info, 849-2420.

Marshfield Story Time: Jaquith Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

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

153 MAIN STREET, BURLINGTON, V T

TICKETS/GROUP INFO

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10/25/12 9:57 AM

Planning a kids event?

List your events for free in the Kids VT monthly calendar.

NOVEMBER 2012 KIDSVT.COM

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

Info, 496-4205.

Waterbury Toddlers-’n’-Twos: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 244-7036.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: Buttered Noodles, Mondays-Fridays, 10-10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 764-1810.

TUESDAY Alburgh Story Hour: Alburgh Community Education Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 796-6077.

Berkshire PJ Story Time: Berkshire Elementary School, second Wednesday of every month, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Submit your happenings for December and January by the 15th of November online at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com

Burlington Science & Stories: ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, 11 a.m. $9.50-$12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 324-6386.

Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

East Barre Kids Story Hour: East Barre Branch Library, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.

East Middlebury Preschool Stories: Sara Partridge Community Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Essex Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, 9:10-9:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

calendar

30

KIDS VT

Stowe Story Time for 2- to 3-Year-Olds: Stowe Free Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Barre Children’s Story Hour: Aldrich Public Library, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 476-7550.

The next Kids VT is a combined December/ January issue.

8v-calendar.indd 1

Richmond Pajama Time: Richmond Free Library, 6:30-7 p.m.

Free. Info, 434-3036.

St. Albans Story Time: St. Albans Free Library, Thursdays, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Flynntix Regional Box Office flynntix.org

10/26/12 9:46 AM

Early-literacy skills get special attention during these free readaloud sessions. Some locations provide additional activities such as music, crafts or foreign-language instruction. Contact the story-time organizer or visit kidsvt.com for details.

Fairfax Preschool Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, 9:3010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Grand Isle PJ Story Time: Grand Isle Free Library, first Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

Highgate Story Time: Highgate Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Hinesburg Preschool Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 11 a.m.

Free. Info, 482-2878.

Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, first Tuesday of every month, 9:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 482-2878.

Milton Preschool Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 893-4644.

Richmond Story Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 434-3036.

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

Williston Reading With Frosty & Friends: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Williston Story Hour: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m.

Free. Info, 878-4918.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday. MondaysFridays, 10-10:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY Colchester Pajama Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, Nov. 14, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.

East Barre Realms of Reading Crafts: East Barre Branch Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.

Essex Free Toddler Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 879-0313.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday.

11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Montgomery Story Hour: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, montgomery.librarian@ gmail.com.

Richford Story Hour: Arvin A. Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 848-3313.

South Burlington Baby Book Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Stowe Preschool Story Hour: Stowe Free Library, 10:15 a.m. Free.

Info, 253-6145.

Swanton Story Hour: Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-7656.

Warren Preschool Story & Enrichment Hour: Warren Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 595-2582.

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

Williamstown Story Time: Ainsworth Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 433-5887.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

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

Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday.

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

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Franklin Story Time: Haston Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Jericho Preschool Story Time: Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Nov. 8, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4962.

Middlebury Early Literacy Story Time: Ilsley Public Library, 10:3011:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Rutland Story Time: Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Shelburne Story Time With Mary Catherine Jones: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

St. Albans Story Time: See Monday.

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

Info, 877-2211.

Westford Story Time: Westford Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-5639.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

FRIDAY Enosburg Story Hour: Enosburg Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2328.

Essex Musical Thirds: Essex Free Library, third Friday of every month, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Georgia Preschool Story Time: Georgia Public Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 524-4643.

Huntington Story Time: Huntington Public Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 434-4583.

Lincoln Children’s Story Time: Lincoln Library, 10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 453-2665.

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

Info, 893-4644.

South Burlington Pajamarama: Barnes & Noble, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 652-7080.

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

Free. Info, 253-6145.

Waterbury Preschool Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 244-7036.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

SATURDAY Barre Story Time: Next Chapter Bookstore, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-3114.

Colchester Drop-In Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

South Burlington Saturday Story Time: See Wednesday. 11 a.m.

South Burlington SecondSaturday Stories: South Burlington Community Library, second Saturday of every month, 10:15 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 652-7080.

SUNDAY Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

nov Calendar

9 FRidAY (Continued)

Nature & Science

Let’s Talk About Race: story Hour: See November 2.

10 SATURDAY

Arts

A World of complications: See November 8.

Kids craft: See November 3. 1-3 p.m. major mess: Young artists explore holiday-themed projects with mixed media. All ages. Children under 4 must be accompanied by an adult. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $10. Info, 457-3500.

Education

dr. First videos “First with Kids” at Fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

open House: Prospective students and their parents check out a Waldorf education during tours and presentations by teachers and students. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 10 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 985-2827.

Queen city chess club: See spotlight, pg. 28.

Fairs & Festivals

community Harvest Festival: Attendees support the the Richmond Elementary Farm to School program by lunching and listening, grinding grain, making corn cakes and seed art, blending smoothies by bike power, and climbing hay bales. All ages. West Monitor Barn, Richmond, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 434-5853.

mixed media drop-in: See November 3.

Wagon-Ride Weekend: See November 3.

saturday drama club: See November 3.

Food

Tween Night: Grab a friend or two and come for pizza and a Hunger Games movie night. Preregister

by November 8. Grades 5 and up. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Community

Burlington’s changing community: Museumgoers join a conversation on Burlington’s changing demographics during workshops, facilitated panels, performances and a screening of a film on race. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $2. Info, 1-877-324-3686.

Project Graduation craft Fair: Shoppers browse products, including wreaths, clothing, jewelry, artwork and specialty foods. Proceeds support Project Graduation. Mt. Abraham Union High School, Bristol, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Info, 453-2333.

Butter making: See November 3.

Health & Fitness

Franklin Tumble Time: Gym time provides an opportunity to run, jump and play. Ages birth-6.

Franklin Central School, second Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Kids Night out: Small ones make a splash at swimming and movie activities with groups for tots ages 1-4 and older children ages 5-12. Preregister. YMCA, Burlington, 5:30-8 p.m. $8-16. Info, 862-9622. make Your own Hula Hoop: A member of UVM’s hooping team shows folks how to make and decorate their own. All ages. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. $20.

Info, 864-0123.

okemo ski & snowboard swap: See spotlight, pg. 38.

Waitsfield ski and skate sale: See spotlight, pg. 38.

Winooski Family Gym: See November 1.

Library & Books

Local Readers, Local Writers: Vermont authors Phoebe Stone, Doug Wilhelm, Ted Scheu, Kimberly Jones, Kendra Gratton, Pat Weber and Jeanne Blackmore meet with young writers. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free.

Info, 388-4097.

Nature & Science

11 SUNDAY

Community

Babysitter search: Parents connect with sitters, nannies and mommy’s helpers in a round-robin open house session followed by free time to talk. Preregister. Stowe Elementary School, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 253-6138.

The Geography Game show: Cape Cod artist Neal Nichols uses a marker and white board to draw the world from memory, quizzing the audience on continents, capitals, countries and cultures in an engaging geography lesson. Preregister. The Renaissance School, Shelburne, 1-4 p.m. $10 person; $30 for a family of four or more. Info, 425-2355.

Bird-monitoring Walk: Birders bring binoculars for a walk on museum property. Best for adults and older kids with some experience. Preregister. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 8-10 a.m.

Donations. Info, 434-2167.

Fairs & Festivals

Parachutes: Curious kids make their own ’chutes to test air resistance. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

city market Kids cooking class: Young kids and teens give thanks by preparing homemade soup and sharing a pot with the Committee on Temporary Shelter. Ages 8 and up, accompanied by an adult.

Preregister. McClure Multigenerational Center, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 861-9700.

Raptor Romp: Birders meet and greet raptors in their natural environment on an interpreterguided walk. All ages. Preregister. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5-8; free for kids under 3.

Info, 985-8686.

Who sank the Boat?: Newbie boat builders craft a vessel, then see how much weight it can hold before sinking. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Wagon-Ride Weekend: See November 3.

Food

Health & Fitness

Burlington Family Gym: See November 2. okemo ski & snowboard swap: See spotlight, pg. 38. open Gym: See November 2. 5-7 p.m.

YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: See November 4.

11 suNdAY, p. 33

KidsVT.com november 2012 Kids VT

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CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF ARTISTIC INSPIRATION, DIS DISCOVERY AND PASSION!

nov CALenDAr

THEATREWORKS USA

Martha Speaks SAT | DEC 1 | 3 PM Musical adaptation of the endearing children’s book series about a very chatty canine

THE CH CHRISTMAS REVELS

AN IRISH CELEBRATION OF THE WINTER SOLSTICE

THU-SUN | DEC 13-16

Fun for the whole family!

Climb aboard the Glenna Troy as a group of hopeful émigrés create a memorable Christmas at sea. Featuring a spirited céilidh band, all-ages chorus, storytellers, step dancers—and all the usual Revels magic!

hop.dartmouth.edu | 603.646.2422 | Dartmouth College | Hanover, NH k6h-HopkinsCenter1112.indd 1

10/24/12 11:41 AM

True Colors

Kids VT

november 2012 KidsVT.com

As the burlington School District struggles to address an achievement gap between students of color and their white peers, a new exhibit at eCHo Lake Aquarium and Science Center is a timely conversation starter: “Race: aRe We so diffeRenT?” is “in the right place at the right time,” says eCHo’s director of education, molly Loomis. The large panels may seem daunting for little kids, but the exhibit also packs a punch with photographs, videos and visual representations of abstract ideas exploring the biology and history of race in America. Preschoolers can learn more at Friday morning story sessions, offered in partnership with the reading to end racism program. And, according to Loomis, the bSD plans to hold faculty meetings at eCHo to introduce educators to the material. other outreach includes community programs, lectures and a special, $2-admission day on november 10 focused on burlington’s changing demographics.

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“Race: aRe We so diffeRenT?” Open through January 27, 2013, at ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 864-1848, echovt.org k3v-UVMAthletics1112.indd 1

10/26/12 9:56 AM

Game on!: Kids learn new diversions or play old faves. All ages. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

11 suNdAY (Continued)

Nature & Science

Batteries & motors: Science lovers explore circuits and electricity. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2.

Info, 649-2200.

Glaciers: Small geologists explore the properties of ice while making model glaciers. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Nature & Science science & stories: migration: Preschoolers learn which birds head south for the winter, and which ones chill out in Vermont. All ages. Preregister. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

Arts

Arts

imagination studio: See November 5.

Education

Art for Tots: See November 7.

Baby & Maternity dr. First videos “First with Kids” at FletcherAllen.org/ firstwithkids

spanish immersion class: See November 5.

Health & Fitness Hoopla: See November 5.

Hot mama Workout: See November 1. my First Yoga: See November 5. open Gym: See November 2. 10 a.m.-noon

13 TUESDAY

Education

money smart child Workshop: Parents learn how to teach kids about money, spending, budgets, credit and saving. Free pizza and childcare provided. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

Parent-child sign Language: See November 6. spanish immersion Hour: See November 6.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: chai Tea Latte: Small chefs blend chai from scratch, tying up the tea in sachets that are great for gifts. All ages. Preregister.

Healthy Living Market and Cafe, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per adult/child pair. Info, 8632569, ext. 1.

Health & Fitness

dancin’ With my Baby: See November 2. 10:3011:45 a.m.

Library & Books

Burlington La Leche League: Moms bring their questions, babies and older kids, too, to this breast-feeding support group. Lending library available.

Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-8228.

Community

Georgia Family Game Night: Candy Land, checkers and Monopoly bring gamers to the library.

Visitors are welcome to carry in other favorites, too. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 524-4643.

Education

social Thinking: See November 7.

Food

cookie decorating: See November 7.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See November 2.

Kids open Gymnastics: See November 2.

open Gym: See November 2. 10 a.m.-noon.

Library & Books

LEGo Afternoons: See November 7. may’s music & movement: See November 7. movin’ & Groovin’ With christine: See November 7.

NooK Kids APPtivity: See November 7.

Preschool music With Raphael: See November 7.

A Top-secret Program: Undercover agents work together to complete a mission before time runs out. Ages 8 and up. South Burlington Community Library, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

duct Tape Parenting signing: Parenting on Track creator Vicki Hoefle discusses and signs her new book, which takes a less-is-more approach to raising resilient children. Brandon Free Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 247-8230.

Nature & Science

Bringing in the Harvest: Kids and parents explore the natural world through a farm field trip. Ages 3-5. Preregister. MapleWood Organic Farm, Highgate, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Preschool discovery Program: See November 7.

Arts

Art Explorers: See November 1. mom’s matinee: See November 1.

alexandrad@edgevt.com

3v-sportsandfitness102412.indd 1

Mom!

10/19/12 10:23 AM

Yes honey?

Where was my brother before he was in your belly?

Q go ask dad is a monthly feature asking fathers to answer a question.

Have a question idea? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com

Why don’t you go ask dad!

Kids VT

Pollywog drop-in Art: See November 1.

Essex 879-7734 ext. 131

november 2012

15 THURSDAY

m

www.edgevt.co

KidsVT.com

Youth media Lab: See November 7.

submit your december events by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

OOL

SCH E R P s s e n t i Kids & F

okemo ski & snowboard swap: See spotlight pg. 38.

creative Tuesdays: See November 6.

Essex Pajama story Time: The sandman visits kids at the library who are dressed for bed and ready to read. All ages. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

1 YEAR OLDS & 4 YEAR OLDS

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creative Kids: See November 7.

Baby & Maternity

Yoga After Baby: See November 5.

We hav s: classroom

14 WEDNESDAY

12 MONDAY

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See November 5.

DUE TO DEMAND...

POPULAR hese e opened t

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15 THuRsdAY, p. 34 6h-Kvt_GAD_brother.indd 1

8/29/12 5:13 PM

nov calendar PTA ield itsf Wa SPONSORED BY:

Nov. 10-11 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Waitsfield Elementary School Find new and used winter gear for skiers and riders of all ages.

Consignment drop-off Nov. 9th, 4-7pm.

Waitsfield Elementary School Route 100, Waitsfield, VT 802-496-3643 WESSkiSkate.com Pre-register at W.E.S. starting Oct. 29th.

Jump-start the holiday season with a performance of THE NuTcRAcKER. full of dancing candy canes and the sugar plum fairy, the classic two-act ballet satisfies everybody’s christmas craving. kids love the larger-than-life gingerbread soldiers and the nutcracker’s battle against the evil mouse king. and adults appreciate one of tchaikovsky’s most famous compositions, brought to life by the student performers of the touring albany berkshire ballet. like most sweet dreams, it’ll be over before you want it to be.

THE NuTcRAcKER: Saturday, November 24, 3 & 7 p.m; Sunday, November 25, 1 p.m. Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, Burlington, $21-35. Info, 863-5966, flynntix.org

15 THuRsdAY (continued)

Health & Fitness

Hot mama Workout: See November 1.

WE’VE GOT THEM COVERED

k8v-WaitsfieldElemPT1012.indd 1

Winooski Family Gym: See November 1.

9/26/12 1:48 PM

FROM THE FIRST LAYER TO THE LAST

Library & Books

Highgate Youth Advisory: See November 1.

LEGo club: Building-block lovers of all ages get busy with the library’s sets of Duplos, Quatros and Legos. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

PJ story Time With Author Jeanne Blackmore: This Vermont author’s first picture book, How Does Sleep Come?, sends kids off to snoozeland in style at an event that includes activities supplied

by Middlebury College’s Page One Literacy Project.

All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 6-7 p.m.

Free. Info, 985-3999. shelburne magic club: See November 1.

Teen craft: Young adults make a chunky ring out of shrinking plastic. Ages 12-18. Preregister. St. Albans Free Library, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Young Writers club: Budding scribes work on exercises and prompts designed to ignite a creative spark. Grades 4 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Nature & Science

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Kids VT

november 2012 KidsVT.com

Let’s Talk Turkeys: See spotlight, pg. 26.

16 FRIDAY

Arts Red Barn Shops, Mountain Rd, Stowe 802.253-4434 • 800.439.4435

SHOP OUR WEBSITES

A dangerous Night of Writing: Young scribes gather for a write-a-thon inspired by National Novel Writing Month. Ages 7 and up. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

Family clay drop-in: See November 2.

Preschool clay drop-in: See November 2.

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CHILDRENʼS CLOTHING, RAINWEAR AND SKIWEAR 10/24/12 2:41 PM

Health & Fitness

Food

Burlington Family Gym: See November 2.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See November 2. dancin’ With my Baby: See November 2.

Kids Night out in Waterbury: YMCA staff supervise kids as they play games, watch movies and eat pizza. Ages 5-12. Preregister. Thatcher Brook Primary School, Waterbury, 6-8:30 p.m. $8. Info, 244-7195.

Kids open Gymnastics: See November 2. okemo ski & snowboard swap: See spotlight, pg. 38. open Gym: See November 2.

Library & Books

After-school movie: See November 2.

Jiggity Jog: Kids let music move them via song, instrument and dance. Ages 2-6. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Youth Night: Teens and tweens hang out and enjoy movies, snacks and projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, third Friday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

submit your december and January events by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

Butter making: See November 3.

Family Fun Night: The whole family enjoys an evening at the Y with swimming, snacks, movies and more. Swimming is from 5-6:30 p.m. and the movie starts at 6:30 p.m. All ages. YMCA, Burlington, 5-8 p.m. $3-5. Info, 862-9622. okemo ski & snowboard swap: See spotlight pg. 38.

Winooski Family Gym: See November 1.

Library & Books

movie matinee: Kids catch a PG-rated flick while snacking on popcorn. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Nature & Science

Felt Pouch making: Handy crafters make pouches from sheep’s wool while learning about fleece and felting. Preregister. Shelburne Farms, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5-6. Info, 985-8686.

Nature & Science

Fingerprints: Kids get up close and personal with their prints, exploring what makes them unique. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

17 SATURDAY

mirror, mirror: Little ones use looking glasses to investigate reflection and symmetry. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Arts

18 SUNDAY

mixed media drop-in: See November 3.

Fairs & Festivals

Let’s Talk About Race: story Hour: See November 2.

Kids craft: See November 3. saturday drama club: See November 3.

Wagon-Ride Weekend: See November 3.

saturday Youth Art studio drop-in: See November 3.

Health & Fitness

Education

Queen city chess club: See spotlight, pg. 28.

yellow-turtle.com •kidskiandrain.com

k8v-yellowturtle1112.indd 1

courtesy of paul buckowski/the times union

Sweet Dreams

Fairs & Festivals

Wagon-Ride Weekend: See November 3.

Burlington Family Gym: See November 2. okemo ski & snowboard swap: See spotlight pg. 38. open Gym: See November 2. 5-7 p.m.

YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: See November 4.

Nature & Science

creeping colors: This science-packed session teaches kids about capillary action as they watch water crawl up paper and find hidden colors inside a marker. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Leafcutter ants: Nature fans examine the secret life of insect fungus farmers during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

19 MONDAY

Library & Books

chess club: Pawn pushers learn the game and play against others in friendly matches. Ages 6-14. Milton Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Nature & Science

Books & Beyond: Children’s literature meets hands-on activities for science learning and exploration. Ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:15-11 & 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. $1012; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

20 TUESDAY

Arts

Positive Prints: Kids make a lasting impression in clay, molding handprints into special keepsakes.

All ages. Kids under 4 will need help. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $10 per child; $5 per each additional print. Info, 457-3500.

Baby & Maternity

montpelier Prenatal yoga: See November 5.

Education Parent-child sign Language: See November 6.

Health & Fitness

Education

Library & Books

creative Tuesdays: See November 6. magic: The Gathering: Fans of this trading-card game gather for play with their own deck, or borrow one from the library. Grades 6-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Hoopla: See November 5.

Hot mama Workout: See November 1. open Gym: See November 2.

south Burlington crafternoons: Creative kids drop in for a hands-on activity. South Burlington Community Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

open Gym: See November 2. 10 a.m.-noon

Nature & Science

Nature art: Budding nature lovers explore their creative proclivities with Exordium, Inc. Kids in preschool to grade 4. Preregister. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

21 WEDNESDAY

afternoon Hoops: See November 2.

Kids open Gymnastics: See November 2.

Library & Books

LEGo afternoons: See November 7.

NooK Kids aPPtivity: See November 7.

Preschool music With raphael: See November 7. youth media Lab: See November 7.

Nature & Science

Preschool discovery Program: See November 7.

Arts

22 THURSDAY

creative Kids: See November 7.

Education

social Thinking: See November 7.

community Thanksgiving dinner: Friends dine together at a traditional feast. To donate food or time, or to receive a home-delivered meal on Thanksgiving Day, call 229-9151. Bethany Church, Montpelier, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 229-9151.

Food

Health & Fitness

spanish immersion Hour: See November 6.

dancin’ With my Baby: See November 2. 10:3011:45 a.m.

Health & Fitness

Health & Fitness

Dr. First videos “first with Kids” at FletcherAllen.org/ firstwithkids

yoga after Baby: See November 5.

spanish immersion class: See November 5.

The seussification of romeo & Juliet: Very Merry Theatre takes a different look at a classic love story.

All ages. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

art for Tots: See November 7.

candy-cane-making demo: Families watch candy makers in action, or they can get in on the fun and make twisted treats of their own. Preregister to participate.Laughing Moon Chocolates, Stowe, 11 a.m. Free to watch. $6 person to make your own.

Info, 253-9591.

Community

Turkey Trot: A quarter-mile kids race starts at 10:45 a.m. just before the 5K jaunt. UVM Gutterson Field House, Burlington, 11 a.m. Donations, including food for the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf. Info, gmaa.net.

cookie decorating: See November 7.

23 friday, p. 36

PARENTS: Let Your Kids Get Creative

Make Things • Act • Wear Funky Costumes • Paint Draw • Have Fun Work On A Team • Dance • Perform • Wear Make-up • Have Fun With Friends

Destination ImagiNation is for you!

Are you looking for an exciting educational program for your children?

•

A program that will challenge them to reach higher levels of creativity and teaches students there is more than one way to solve a problem?

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Would you like to work with kids as their Team Manager?

KidsVT.com

•

november 2012

The program is kid-driven & team powered

Kids VT

Di in Vermont www.vtdi.org Di Globally www. idodi.org Contact Pat Dilego at 864-8436 or pdilego@bsdvt.org

35

k2h-destinationimagination1112.indd 1

10/19/12 2:05 PM

NOV CALENDAR

22 THURSDAY (CONTINUED)

23 FRIDAY

Fairs & Festivals

Thanksgiving Weekend: Turkey Day doings from 1890 are showcased during this holiday celebration on the farm, complete with tasty treats and wagon rides. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $3-12; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See November 21.

Health & Fitness Stratton Mountain School Ski Sale: See spotlight, pg. 38.

Dr. First videos “First with Kids” at FletcherAllen.org/ firstwithkids

Turkey Day Basketball Clinic: Young players pick up skills from St. Michael’s men’s basketball team coaches and players. Ages 7-18. Preregister. St. Michael’s College, Colchester, 9 a.m.-noon. $15 per day. Info, 654-2739.

Nature & Science Fossils: See November 3.

Hoopster Gliders: See November 4.

Let’s Talk About Race: Story Hour: See November 2.

24 SATURDAY

Arts

Kids Craft: See November 3.

Mixed Media Drop-In: See November 3.

The Nutcracker: The Albany Berkshire Ballet performs the holiday classic. All ages. Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, Burlington, 3 & 7 p.m. $21-35.

Info, 863-5966.

Saturday Drama Club: See November 3.

Scrooge: No Strings Marionette Company animates Dickens’ classic story with 15 large-scale puppets who introduce the themes of sharing and giving. Attendees sample sweets from the holiday bazaar after the show. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 11 a.m. $6. Info, 728-6464.

Education

Queen City Chess Club: See spotlight, pg. 28.

Fairs & Festivals

Thanksgiving Weekend: See November 23.

Food

Butter Making: See November 3.

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See November 21.

11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Stratton Mountain School Ski Sale: See spotlight, pg. 38.

Turkey Day Basketball Clinic: See November 23. 9 a.m.-noon.

Winooski Family Gym: See November 1.

Playgroups MONDAY Barre Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon. $10 child. Info, 223-0517.

Colchester Playgroup: Malletts Bay School, Tuesdays, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5900.

Hardwick Playgroup: Hardwick Elementary School, 8:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 652-5138.

Essex Open Gym: Regal Gymnastics Academy, Fridays, 11 a.m.-noon. $8; free for children under 18 months. Info, 655-3300.

Johnson Baby Chat: Church of the Nazarene, fourth Tuesday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 888-3470.

Isle La Motte Playgroup: Isle La Motte School, 7:30-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Middlebury Playgroup: Middlebury Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Jericho Playgroup: Jericho Community Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Milton Playgroup: New Life Fellowship Church, Thursdays, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-1457.

Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, second Monday, Wednesday of every month, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Montpelier Tulsi Morning Playgroup: Tulsi Tea Room, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-0043.

Montpelier LEGO Club: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, third Tuesday of every month, 3:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 223-4665.

South Hero Playgroup: South Hero Congregational Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Richford Playgroup: Cornerstone Briddges to Life Community Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

Swanton Playgroup: Mary S. Babcock School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Worcester Playgroup: Doty Memorial School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 229-0173.

Williston Music With Raphael: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY Alburgh Music and Movement: Alburgh Community Education Center, Every other Tuesday, 8:45-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

NOVEMBER 2012 KIDSVT.COM

Essex Open Gym: See Monday.

Georgia Playgroup: Georgia Elementary & Middle School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Winooski Fathers & Children Together: Winooski Family Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

KIDS VT

Essex BBF Playgroup: Essex Junction Recreation and Parks Department, Thursdays, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 872-9580.

Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers & Toddlers: St. Joseph School, 11 p.m. Free. Info, 999-5100.

Rutland Babies & Toddlers Rock: Rutland Free Library, first Monday of every month, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

36

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

Contact the playgroup organizer or visit kidsvt.com for site-specific details.

Baby Time: Faith United Methodist Church, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 658-3659.

Bristol Playgroup: Bristol Baptist Church, 9:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Burlington Family Play: VNA Family Room, Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Fathers & Children Together: VNA Family Room, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Music With Robert: Fletcher Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Colchester Playgroup: See Monday.

Colchester Teddy Bear Picnic: Malletts Bay School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5906.

Barre Open Gym: See Monday.

Enosburg Playgroup: American Legion - Enosburg, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 933-6435.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday.

Essex Welcome Baby Playgroup: Move You Fitness Studio, 10 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 872-9580.

Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrup Memorial Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Hinesburg Playgroup for Dads: Annette’s Preschool, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

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. Info, 764-5820.

Shelburne Sing-Along: Lemon Peel Cafe and Creperie, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 985-9511.

South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264.

St. Albans BBF Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, St. Albans, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Vergennes Playgroup: Congregational Church of Vergennes, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 388-3171.

Williston Baby-Time Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 658-3659.

THURSDAY Alburgh Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, Alburgh, Free. Info, 527-5426.

Bolton Playgroup: Smilie Memorial School, Nov. 15, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, second Thursday of every month, 2-4 p.m., and second Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Family Play: See Tuesday. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Essex BBF Playgroup: See Tuesday. Tuesdays, 9:30-11 a.m.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-noon.

Fletcher Tumble Time: Fletcher Elementary School, second Thursday of every month, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Fletcher Playgroup: Fletcher Elementary School, third Thursday of every month, 9-10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

Milton Playgroup: See Tuesday. Tuesdays, 9:3011 a.m.

Montgomery Infant Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Williston Music With Raphael: See Monday.

Winooski Playgroup: O’Brien Community Center, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

FRIDAY Essex Center Playgroup: Memorial Hall, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6751.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday. Mondays- 11 a.m.-noon.

Fairfax Community Playgroup: BFA Fairfax, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Ferrisburgh Open Gym: Ferrisburgh Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171

Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Info, 899-4415.

Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

St. Albans MOPS: Church of the Rock, third Friday of every month, 8:45-11 a.m. Free. Info, 891-1230.

Swanton Late-Morning Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7147; jakruwet@yahoo.com.

SATURDAY Fairfax Open Tot Gym & Infant Playtime: BFA Fairfax, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Franklin Playgroup: Franklin Central School, second Saturday of every month, 10-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

Morrisville Weekend Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

North Hero Tumble Time: North Hero Elementary School, Every other Saturday, 10-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

South Burlington Tots & Tykes Open Gym: Chamberlin Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 846-4108.

Nature & Science

Bird-monitoring Walk: Bring binoculars and explore museum property for avian activity. Best for older children. Preregister. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-2167. magnetic moments: Budding scientists experiment with magnets. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200. microscopic investigations: Kiddos get an upclose look at everyday items using hand lenses and microscopes. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

25 SUNDAY

Arts

The Nutcracker: See November 24. 1 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Newborn 101: Moms- and dads-to-be get the skinny on tiny babies and how to enjoy the first three months of parenthood. The class covers tips on setting routines, breast-feeding basics, newborn care, how to handle prolonged crying and participant questions. Preregister. Franklin County Home Health Agency, St. Albans, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $30.

Info, 527-7531.

Fairs & Festivals

Thanksgiving Weekend: See November 23.

Food

candy-cane-making demo: See November 21.

Health & Fitness

Burlington Family Gym: See November 2. open Gym: See November 2.

Nature & Science

machine madness Pre-Build: Budding builders bring supplies to help construct contraptions for a conference in December. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200. optical illusions: Young minds discover that things are not always what they seem during this science-based session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Playing Telephone: Kids craft paper-cup phones and explore the properties of sound waves. All ages.

Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200. science & stories: Hibernation: Nature-loving kids explore why some animals sleep to survive winter. All ages. Preregister. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.5012.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

26 MONDAY montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See November 5.

Yoga After Baby: See November 5.

spanish immersion class: See November 5.

Health & Fitness

27 TUESDAY

Arts

Art safari: Tots dive into stories and art activities related to the museum’s collections. Ages 3-5 with adult. Preregister. Shelburne Museum 9:30-10:30 a.m.. $5-7.50 child. Info, 985-3346.

Education

Parent-child sign Language: See November 6. spanish immersion Hour: See November 6.

Food Kids in the Kitchen: magical matzo Ball soup: Winter days inspire a cooking lesson that yields chicken soup and from-scratch matzo. All ages.

Preregister. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per adult/child pair.

Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

Health & Fitness

dancin’ With my Baby: See November 2. 10:3011:45 a.m.

Library & Books

creative Tuesdays: See November 6.

28 WEDNESDAY

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10/23/12 11:08 AM

Flynn Center "A heartwarming family favorite!"

— St. Louis Post Dispatch Nebraska Theatre Caravan

Season Sponsor

Sponsors

“A Christmas Carol” Sunday, December 2 at 7 pm, MainStage Tickets start at $15

Media

ASL Interpreted

www.flynncenter.org or call 86-flynn today!

Arts

Art for Tots: See November 7.

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10/25/12 10:03 AM

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10/24/12 11:08 AM

creative Kids: See November 7.

Baby & Maternity

Nursing Beyond a Year: Moms gather to discuss the joys and challenges of an older nursling. Discussion topics include nighttime parenting, weaning and setting limits. Bring a snack to share. Aikido of Champlain Valley, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 879-3000.

Pregnancy circle: Pregnant moms check in with open discussion, hear positive birth stories, and practice labor breathing and relaxation. A healthy snack is provided. Preregister. Birth Journeys, Essex Junction, 6-7:30 p.m. $5-15 sliding scale. Info, 324-8809.

Education

social Thinking: See November 7.

Food

candy-cane-making demo: See November 21. cookie decorating: See November 7.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See November 2.

Kids open Gymnastics: See November 2. open Gym: See November 2.

Library & Books

november 2012

Education

intergenerational dessert Book discussion: Anyone who loves a good read-rant-and rave-session gets their chance to eat a sweet and talk books.

Grade 6 through adult. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-313.

KidsVT.com

Baby & Maternity

Library & Books

LEGo Afternoons: See November 7. may’s music & movement: See November 7. movin’ & Groovin’ With christine: See November 7.

NooK Kids APPtivity: See November 7.

Hot mama Workout: See November 1.

Preschool music With Raphael: See November 7.

open Gym: See November 2. 10 a.m.-noon

Youth media Lab: See November 7.

Kids VT

Hoopla: See November 5.

37

28 WEdNEsdAY, p. 39

NOV CALENDAR

Gearing Up

1899 MOUNTAIN ROAD, STOWE 802.253.4411 PIECASSO.COM

Hitting the slopes can cost a pretty penny. But savvy skiers and boarders know the secret to outfitting their families affordably: swap sales.

Parents of quickly growing athletes can pick up low-cost, gently used equipment and sell gear their little shredders have outgrown. Now that’s a cool idea.

Eddie Spaghetti Made with marinara or butter. $5 | add 2 meatballs for $1.5

KIDS MENU

Hamburger or Cheeseburger PT farms all-natural grass-fed beef.

Served with a side of hand-cut fries. $6.5

Grilled Cheese

Personal Pie

Texas toast with cheddar & american cheese.

Served with a side of hand-cut fries. $5

Comes with cheese & choice of 1 topping. $6 | add additional toppings for $.75

Chicken Tenders

Pizza Roll

Free-range chicken tenders.

Served with a side of hand-cut fries. $6

Fresh baked dough wrapped with mozzarella, herbs & choice of pepperoni or broccoli. $5

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8/30/12 11:26 AM

DO YOU WANT THAT BOY TO READ? The Brothers Plad Outdoor pladventure, fishing, and brotherhood.

Vermont book for Vermont boys, ages 7-11.

Hook this book for the holidays: thebrothersplad.com

BURLINGTON, ESSEX

Vermont Gift Barn

SOUTH BURLINGTON

Next Chapter Bookstore BARRE

NOT FOR WIZARDS OR WIMPS

38

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2012 KIDSVT.COM

Local hatcheries: Phoenix Books

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10/24/12 10:53 AM

NOVEMBER 3-4 Cochran’s Ski & Ride Sale Camel’s Hump Middle School, Richmond Consignment drop-off: Friday, November 2, 6-8:30 p.m.

Sale: Saturday, November 3, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, November 4, 10 a.m.2 p.m.

Info, 425-2665, cochranskiclub.org NOVEMBER 10-11 Waitsfield Ski and Skate Sale Waitsfield Elementary School Consignment drop-off: Friday, November 9, 4-7 p.m.

Sale: Saturday and Sunday, November 10 and 11, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Info, 496-3643, wesskiskate.com NOVEMBER 16-18 Okemo Ski and Snowboard Swap Okemo Mountain School November 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Wednesday, November 14, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sale: Friday, November 16, 4-7 p.m.; Saturday, November 17, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday, November 18, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Info, 228-1513 NOVEMBER 16-18 Ski and Snowshoe Swap Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center, Stowe Consignment drop-off: Friday, November 16, 3-7 p.m.

Sale: Saturday, November 17, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, November 18, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Info, 800-826-7000, trappfamily.com/ activities/special-events NOVEMBER 23- 25 Stratton Mountain School Ski Sale Stratton Mountain Resort Consignment drop-off: Friday, November 23, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sale: Friday, November 23, 3-7 p.m.; Saturday, November 24, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $5 admission on Friday; free on Saturday Info, 865-1165, gosms.org/skisale

Library & Books

Health & Fitness

Library & Books

Burlington Family Gym: See November 2.

Nature & Science

29 THURSDAY

mysterious Hogwarts Reading society: Fantasy fans gather to discuss magical reads. Grades 4-6.

Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 388-4097.

Arts

30 FRIDAY

mom’s matinee: See November 1.

28 WEdNEsdAY (CoNtiNued)

Nature & Science

Preschool discovery Program: See November 7.

Highgate Youth Advisory: See November 1.

Afternoon Hoops: See November 2. dancin’ With my Baby: See November 2.

Arts

Jedi Night: Jedi Padawans join YMCA staff for Star Wars-themed crafts and self-defense clinics.

Kids choose from activities including a screening of the original movie, making Emperor dolls and fighting light-saber duels. Ages 5-12. Ferrisburgh Central School, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $8. Info, 862-9622.

Pollywog drop-in Art: See November 1.

Family clay drop-in: See November 2.

Kids open Gymnastics: See November 2.

Health & Fitness

Preschool clay drop-in: See November 2.

open Gym: See November 2.

Food

open Gym: See November 2.

Winooski Family Gym: See November 1.

candy-cane-making demo: See November 21.

Art Explorers: See November 1.

Hot mama Workout: See November 1.

After-school movie: See November 2.

Friday Nights for Teen Tinkerers: Young adults plan and build cool creations, such as robots that draw, electronic bugs or tessellating designs. Grades 6-9. Preregistration recommended. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6:30-8 p.m. $14-16.

Info, 649-2200.

Let’s Talk About Race: story Hour: See November 2. K

submit your december and January events by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

Choose coverage for yourself or your whole family.

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KidsVT.com

Individual and Family Plans from Northeast Delta Dental

November 2012

Enroll in your choice of plans at

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2012 Delta Dental Plans Association

39

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10/23/12 11:11 AM

Don’t miss our

âœą CONTEST

OPEN HOUSE November AM – Noon

CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE ENTHUSIASTIC YOUNG CRITICS who shared their reading recommendations this month. Each wins books from Kids VT and a $25 gift certificate from Crow Bookshop in Burlington. We loved reading about all the entrants’ literary adventures and have included some of our favorite excerpts below.

Lake Champlain Waldorf School

Holiday Fair

PM – PM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1 AM – PM

ARTISAN MARKET

FAMILY FAIR

Come for a shopping experience like no other!

Browse for all your holiday gifts from over 60 artisans, while enjoying a caffè latte and savory treats. Live music. For adults and older teens.

Bring your family early because you’ll want to stay the whole day! Huge artisan market, holiday singing, children’s craft making, storytelling, magical activities, games, African drumming, homemade bistro foods and more!

10/25/12 9:54 AM

Who qualifies for the study? • Patients aged 5-11 • Must have a history of symptoms consistent with a diagnosis of asthma for at least 6 months • Are using a stable dose of asthma therapy • Must not have had an asthma episode requiring oral steroids in the past 3 months or requiring hospitalization for asthma in the past 6 months • Can attend 5-7 evening clinic visits between 3PM-9PM • Compensation provided for time and travel

NOVEMBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

We are performing a study of a new investigational asthma medicine for children with mild to moderate asthma.

KIDS VT

The Great Paint Problem

by Kimberly Weinberger “My favorite is on pages when they make lemonade.�

WILLISTON

Asthma in Children Research Study

40

Helena Wolfel, 3

Addison Urch, 7

%#$! " ! %#" &

(802) 865-6100 • leonard@tlaaa.com k4t-timberlaneallergy1112.indd 1

If you didn’t win this month, send in another submission. Send them to: Kids VT attn: Book Review, 255 South Champlain Street, Burlington, VT 05401

BARRE CITY

www.lakechamplainwaldorfschool.org

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BOOK REVIEW

10/4/12 1:32 PM

Pirates (Magic Treehouse Research Guide)

by Will Osborne and Mary Pope Osborne “Here are some pirate [rules]. 1. Every man gets equal amount of what is stolen. 2. No fighting 3.

No gambling.�

Yukima Benjamin, 8 ST. ALBANS

The Dragon Prophecy, the Kingdom of Fantasy, Book 4

by Geronimo Stilton “I like it because Geronimo is out on a journey with six friends ‌ it helps me think of my friends.â€?

Cole Fenton, 9 COLCHESTER

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

by Douglas Adams In his glowing review, Cole notes that the intro to the book claims the Earth is 98 million miles from the sun. Cole adds, “I thought it was only 93 million miles.�

The next Book Review deadline is Monday, November 19.

JIM DESHLER

HABITAT

Crafting Corner

BY KATE LADDISON

A

NOVEMBER 2012

for kids.

KIDSVT.COM

fter their daughter Parents: Savannah was born, Liz Liz and Eric Small Small and her husband, Children: Eric, finished their basement Savannah, 4, and and added a crafting space.

Danyon, 7 weeks They wanted to make room for both Savannah and Liz, a graphic designer for Terry Bicycles, to get creative.

Liz says a Pottery Barn desk inspired the space, though she ended up buying most of the supplies at Michaels and the Christmas Tree Shops for just $75.

“I’m a do-it-yourselfer,” she says.

Now 4, Savannah loves to spread • A repurposed door makes out her paints and for an extended work paper on the desk, surface. and the Smalls • Art supplies are sorted love that they can into easy-to-reach keep those supplies buckets. organized. A big • Scissors are stored up bonus: Because high, where kids can’t get the living room is to them. adjacent, Liz can • Wrapping paper and make cards while ribbon hang from dowels Savannah plays, or on the wall.

Savannah can paint • Paper lanterns add light while Liz folds and color. laundry. Pretty • Old-school desk, a roadside crafty, indeed. find, is a work space just

KIDS VT

41

“Habitat” is a new feature celebrating places where Vermont families live and play. Got a sweet space you’d like us to see? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

HANDS-ON ✱ PROJECT

Turkey Hand Puppet

COURTESY OF ANA RUESINK

42

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

AH, THE THANKSGIVING TURKEY

— a magnificent beast, delicious feast and source of inspiration for seasonal art. Try this easy, turkey-themed project with your kids, from infants to tweens. No matter their age, they’ll love seeing their traced hand come to life as a festive fowl, and you’ll give thanks for the simple joys of childhood.

My family has done this craft project annually since 2007. It’s delightful to see my children’s hands — and artistic skills — grow with each passing year.

Materials

Instructions

• markers, crayons or colored pencils

1. Using a pencil or marker, trace your child’s hand on heavyweight white paper; let older kids do this themselves.

• heavyweight or construction paper in white, red and yellow

2. Invite older children to cut out their handprints with scissors; do the honors for younger kids whose eyehand coordination may not be up to the task.

• scissors

3. Cut a triangular beak out of yellow paper and a squiggly wattle (the fleshy dewlap that dangles from a turkey’s neck) out of red; glue them onto the thumb of the paper handprint.

• glue • fancy decorations such as googly eyes, feathers, glitter glue and sequins (optional) • straws or popsicle sticks

— BY ANA RUESINK

Share your fun craft ideas with us! Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.

4. Glue the finished puppet onto a popsicle stick or straw.

5. Decorate!

6. Use the puppet for a Thanksgiving-themed puppet show or make several turkeys and arrange them in a vase for a quirky holiday centerpiece.

Join VPT for PBS Kids Holiday Specials!

Thanksgiving week, join the Cat in the Hat and other kid’s favorites as VPT kicks off the holiday season!

The Cat stars in an all-new special, “The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Christmas!”

It’s joined by “Arthur’s Perfect Christmas” and “Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas.”

Multiple airings Wed., Nov. 21, Thurs., Nov. 22 and Fri., Nov. 23. Check daytime schedules at vpt.org.

Kick off the Holiday Season with VPT!

THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT

k3h-VPT1112.indd 1

10/23/12 11:23 AM

For grownups who used to be kids and kids who are still kids!

Kids’ songs reinterpreted and ready to ROCK, all to benefit the Integrated Arts Academy at H.O. Wheeler, Vermont’s one and only arts magnet school.

SPECIAL LIVE PERFORMANCES BY

Sponsored by

Kids VT

at HIGHER GROUND

43

Doors at 12:00 p.m. Show starts at 12:30 p.m. $10 for adults, $5 for kids Tickets: www.highergroundmusic.com, at the Higher Ground Box Office, or 888.512.SHOW k23h-KidsAreAlright.indd 1

november 2012

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1st

KidsVT.com

ROUGH FRANCIS JAMES KOCHALKA SWALE The CLEARY BROTHERS TRAPPER KEEPER RICH PRICE & DJ DISCO PHANTOM

10/24/12 4:39 PM

LOOK CLOSER… IT’S TIME TO DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW!

✱ CONTEST

Book Review Sponsored by

ATTENTION CLASS INSTRUCTORS! List your class in Kids VT for only $15/month!

Submit the listing by the 15th at kidsvt.com or classes@kidsvt.com

Like to read?

Send us a few sentences about a book you read recently for a chance to win some literary loot.

Book: _______________________________________________________________

Author: Untitled-96 1

7/26/12 12:30 PM

CENTRAL TO YOUR NEW LIFE “I have nothing but good things to say.

Everyone was wonderful and attentive and fabulous. It was a wonderful experience – better than I dreamed it would be or could have asked for.”

And Ellianna Grace Green is that very dream come true.

She is wonderful and fabulous – all 6lb/8oz and nineteen inches of her!

And her Mama and Papa, Janelle and Kris Green, are wonderfully attentive and obviously smitten with their beautiful first born. Ellianna is named after her paternal great-grandmother and her maternal grandmother is on her way from Kentucky to meet her first grandchild. It feels to us like wonderful and fabulous describe the Green family well. We wish them every happiness and all the best. Mom, Dad and Ellianna live in Barre.

_______________________________________________________________

Why did you like it?

What was your favorite part? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ Name ________________________________ Age __________________________________

Feel free to use additional pages!

Town ________________________________

44

KIDS VT

NOVEMBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

Email ________________________________ Phone ________________________________ Abiola StittaBey, MD, Ob/Gyn

Krissa Hammond, RN, Ob Nurse

Central

Margaret V. Lindsay, MD, Pediatrician

Stevie Balch, RN, CBE, IBCLC, Lactation Best Hospital Consultant

Vermont Medical Center

Central To Your Well Being / www.cvmc.org

Central Vermont Women’s Health -­ 371-­5961. Call 371-­4613 to schedule a tour of our Garden Path Birthing Center. k3v-CentralVTMedCenter1112.indd 1

10/26/12 9:58 AM

We’ll pick the four most creative entries, and winners receive free books, along with a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop. We’ll print some of the winning entries in the next issue.

Deadline to enter is November 19.

Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Book Review, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

New Books, Used Books, Remainders at GREAT PRICES!

14 Church St., Burlington crowbooks.com 862-0848

COLORING CONTEST! Send us your work of art by November 15 for an opportunity to win $25, sponsored by TD Bank.

Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8 and (3) ages 9-12. The best artwork will be featured on kidsvt.com, and winners will be named in the December/January issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

Title _______________________________________ Artist _____________________________________ Age _______________________________________ Town _____________________________________ Email _____________________________________ Phone _____________________________________

KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER 2012 KIDS VT

45

HANDS-ON ANSWERS P. 47

PUZZLE PAGE

Birthday Club Sponsored by

Winners get gift certificates to Spare Time in Colchester, one of Vermont’s premier bowling centers.

Congratulations to these November Birthday Club winners!

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

Join the Club!

Joss lives in Essex Junction and turns 7 in November. He likes to draw, read and play with Star Wars LEGOs.

To enter, submit information using the online form at kidsvt.com/birthday-club.

Joss wins a $50 gift certificate to Spare Time.

Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo and they’re automatically enrolled.

Cadence, Ava and Lucy win $10 gift certificates to Spare Time.

CADENCE lives in Warren and

turns 6 in November. She loves to play with friends and tell jokes.

Puzzles4Kids

KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER 2012 KIDS VT

46

FOOD MAJOR MINOR QUIZ STAFF STUDY TERM TUTOR YEARBOOK

AVA lives in South Burlington and turns 2 in November. She enjoys exploring outside, helping her pop-pop in his garden and chasing bubbles.

Riddle Answer:

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___.

(up to 4 people) Limit one coupon per person per day.

E!

Riddle Search — College Life

CAFETERIA CAMPUS CLASS DEAN DEBATE DIPLOMA DORM ESSAY EXAM FINAL

For everyone in your party.

Are Always More Fun! BEST PRICE! BEST VA LU

BY HELENA HOVANEC

Look up, down and diagonally, both forward and backward, to find every word on the list. Circle each one as you find it. When all the words are circled, take the UNUSED letters and write them on the blanks below. Go from left to right and top to bottom to find the answer to this riddle: Why doesn’t the sun need to go to college?

E E OGANMEEOF FBOR !

ING WL

LUCY lives in Williston and turns 3 in November. Lucy enjoys gymnastics, swimming and being a new big sister.

BOWLING

BIRTHDAYS 2 hour party includes: Bowling, Food, Fun & Games

You bring the kids and the cake...

We’ll do 655-2720 the rest! 215 Lower Mountain View, Colchester

USE YOUR WORDS

Not-So-Foreign Exchange

We’ll Come to You! Educational Outreach in the classroom, library, or community hall

A Vermont teen “visits� China — without leaving home

BY V ICTOR I A BR OW N

for Educators & Homeschoolers:

www.lcmm.org

t 0O 8BUFS &DPMPHZ t 8BS PG t "NFSJDBO 3FWPMVUJPO t .BSJUJNF .BDIJOFT t JO UIF $IBNQMBJO 7BMMFZ

(802) 475-2022 k8v-LCMaritime1112.indd 1

10/24/12 11:38 AM

PUZZLE PAGE ANSWERS (see p. 46) JUmbLES Big. Burn. noun. stay.

RIDDLE ANSWER: What do you call a rabbit with fleas? bugs bunny

47

RIDDLE SEARCH ANSWER: it has a million degrees.

KIDS VT

Brown is a freshman at BFA Fairfax. The Burlington-based SPIRAL International exchange program promotes cross-cultural understanding through exchange programs. Info, spiralinternational.org. “Use Your Words� is a monthly essay in which writers reflect on parenting and childhood.Got a story to share? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

FREE Online Curricula

NOVEMBER 2012

there. The first time they looked up at the Vermont night sky, they were shocked to see so many stars. I was shocked when they told me they’d never walked on grass. So our field trip to Shelburne Farms on a bright, sunny day was especially exciting.

In class earlier that day, the Chinese kids had learned the English names of farm animals. But when we got to Shelburne, it was the sky they wouldn’t stop talking about; they couldn’t believe how blue it was. In their city, smog gives the sky a hazy brown hue most days. They marveled at the soft grass and picturesque green landscape, the things I have always taken for granted. I looked around at the big, open fields, trying to see them through their eyes.

As the days went by, I began to feel more comfortable with everyone. I chose to sit with the exchange students, rather than with my fellow mentors, whenever we rode the bus. I liked hearing how different their schools are — in China the school day goes until 10 p.m., with a break halfway through for a nap.

My new friends were fascinating. The best part? They seemed as interested in me as I was in them. Every time I taught them an English word, they’d teach me the Chinese version. We were learning together.

In some ways, I had been right from the start: These kids were really different from me. When we went bowling, for example, the Chinese students cheered every time I did well, rather than booed my successes like American kids do.

But we were alike in so many more ways. When I walked into the gym where we met each morning, the Chinese boys would be horsing around and playing basketball — just like normal goober American boys — and the girls would be playing games or listening to Justin Bieber and Katy Perry.

At the program’s closing ceremony, it was hard to keep myself from crying. I broke down afterward while hugging my new friends, knowing I might never see them again. Yumy and Jojo had quickly become much more than my mentees, classmates and friends; they felt like family. I hadn’t expected to become so close to them, and neither had the rest of my family. When Yumy and Jojo returned to China, it took us a few weeks to get used to life without them.

My teacher says there’s a possibility that we could reverse the SPIRAL exchange in the future, and I could visit my new friends in China. In the meantime, there’s email.

KIDSVT.COM

MY FAMILY HOSTED a pair of 13-year-old Chinese girls for two weeks this past summer. The first time I met Yumy and Jojo, I felt totally overwhelmed. I had never interacted with foreign students before, and until the moment we introduced ourselves, I knew nothing about them — not even their names. I was sure about one thing: These girls would be really different from me.

I had convinced my family to take part in my school’s SPIRAL International exchange program. Over the course of the two-week camp, my American classmates and I would mentor Chinese students, teaching them English and taking them on field trips.

At the end of each day, they’d come home with us.

This was a first for my family. But I’d been wanting to host exchange students ever since I heard about the SPIRAL program from my friends who participated last year. I was curious about these kids, their language and their culture.

Walking toward the bus to greet them for the first time, I found myself surrounded by 30 students speaking a language I didn’t understand — I only knew a handful of Chinese phrases. I couldn’t imagine how we were going to communicate. My family and I had no idea how much English they could comprehend, and we worried about confusing them. It was nerve-racking, too, because we wanted to like them, and for them to like us.

We were nervous and giddy while introducing ourselves. Jojo and Yumy knew the basics in English — “hello,� “thank you,� “you’re welcome� — and enough simple vocabulary to make small talk. So we stuck to that, excited to be communicating at all.

When we got home that night, we played the card game Go Fish, figuring it was simple enough to break the ice.

Yumy and Jojo had never played the game, but they caught on quickly. Soon, we were laughing and talking together.

And when one of the girls complimented my hair, I said “thank you� in Chinese — I’d learned the phrase from watching “The Amazing Race.� They were so excited I’d spoken a bit of their language.

I started to get a good feeling about the next two weeks.

But the first day of camp began awkwardly. I had decided I should act strictly as a mentor, focusing only on helping the Chinese students improve their English, and not try to be their friend. That didn’t last. By the end of the day I realized I could do both, and it happened naturally. I loved talking to them and wanted to find out as much as I could about their lives.

Chongqing, the city in southwest China where Jojo and Yumi live, is gigantic; more than 28 million people live

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