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NOV 2014 V OL.21 NO.1 0
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or call 888-474-9686.
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DanformShoesVT.com
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Preschool program ages 3-5 years THE BALANCING ACT ENRICHMENT CENTER
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After-school program options available ages 3-12 Experienced teachers dedicated to the development of the whole child Encouraging learning, laughter and positive social interactions while focusing on stages of early childhood development Weekly lessons with USAG-certified gymnastics coaches Daily play in our gymnastics facility and outdoor exploration in our play yard & nature trails Nutritious snacks and lunch provided and prepared on site
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Preschool Director - Kathleen Casey
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Kids VT
November 2014
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VOL.21 NO .10
NOVEMBER 2014 Editor’s Note....................................................................5 See & Say ..........................................................................6 Coloring-Contest Winners ................................7 Birthday Club..................................................................48 Drawing on History: Joel Addison Hartley Ellis......................................49 Use Your Words: Essay ..........................................51
T GIFID E GU
GIeeFsTe, WBinAeS&KSEwTeeS
That’s a Wrap.................................................... ....................................................18
EAT. LEARN. PLAY
Kids VT’s 2014 Holiday Gift Guide
The Kids Beat ..................................................................8 Fit Families: Theatre on Ice................................10 Check Up: Peanut Allergies ................................11 Digital Dilemmas: Email Etiquette .............12 Bookworms: Readers’ Picks ...............................13 Book-Review Winners ...........................................13 Mealtime: Homemade Stuffing ......................15 Go Ask Dad: Fun in the Snow ...........................16 The Art of: Card Making.........................................17
(Next to the Alpine Shop)
802.863.0143
Open 7 days 10am-7pm Web & Mobile site: www.cheesetraders.com
Daily Listings ..................................................................28 Classes ..................................................................................29 Playgroups ........................................................................33 Ongoing Exhibits ........................................................38 Story Times ......................................................................42
Rose Knows.........................................................22 A child behavioral expert teaches parents the dos and don’ts of discipline
HANDS-ON
ON THE COVER
Writing Contest............................................................45 Habitat: Home Bakery .............................................47 Puzzle Page ......................................................................48 Coloring Contest .........................................................50
Eli Simon
Cathy Resmer Colby Roberts Megan James Brooke Bousquet Alison Novak Corey Grenier Kaitlin Montgomery
cathy@kidsvt.com colby@kidsvt.com megan@kidsvt.com brooke@kidsvt.com alison@kidsvt.com corey@kidsvt.com kaitlin@kidsvt.com
ext. 74 ext. 77 ext. 73 ext. 41 ext. 75 ext. 76 ext. 72
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Contributing Writers: Angela Arsenault, Thea Lewis, Mary Ann Lickteig, Ken Picard, Erinn Simon, Elaine Young Photographers: Matt Thorsen, Sam Simon Illustrators: Ian Webb
For more information, visit mansfieldcooperative.org or contact Julia Lesauskis at learntoliberate@gmail.com
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Published 11x per year. Circulation: 25,000 at 600+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.
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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.
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NOVEMBER 2014
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10/17/14 Dynamic, whole-child-based learning cooperative opening as an official school for the 2015-2016 school year.
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Students at Burlington’s Integrated Arts Academy hammed it up for photographer-dad Sam Simon in a juice-box-fueled, after-school shoot. We asked the kids — Rhiannon Landry, Leo Buffington, Westin and Harper Bunce, Jasper Cleary, Mila Buffington, Kiernan Hackney, Juni Cleary and Cal Simon — what they want for the holidays.
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To help him see hope, we looked at care through a child’s eyes.
A state-of-the-art mental health inpatient program for children ages 4 to 12 Children who face mental illness deserve excellent care in a clinically advanced setting that helps them to heal, and encourages them to be kids. Our program combines best practices in clinical space design and treatment options. Highlights include: • Comforting, child-friendly design and decor
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Remodeled for 21st Century Care: Inpatient Mental Health Program for Children Ages 4-12
boltonvalley.com • 1.877.9BOLTON
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Kids VT
November 2014
kidsvt.com
Learn how we’re leading the way at brattlebororetreat.org
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EDITOR’S NOTE
A Gift to Remember I had heard the thud the night before. The letter confirmed the noise really had been Santa. Beloved gifts often come with a backstory or an extra, personalized touch, something local toy- and booksellers confirmed in our annual holiday gift guide [“That’s a Wrap,” p. 18].
Y VACATION CAMPS YOu DON’T HAVe TO TrAVel FAr FOr ADVeNTure!
• Y Camps run during Nov. Dec. Feb. and April School Breaks • On site at Schools in Chittenden, Franklin, Washington counties • For kids in kindergarten through 12 years • 7:30-6:00pm; $38 day
reserve your spot today! gbymca.org 862-YMCA (9622) Financial assistance is available. k4t-YMCA1114.indd 1
5-year-old Megan’s dollhouse looked a lot like this one.
This month’s “Art Of” on designing homemade cards [p. 17] also encourages creative flourishes. As Annemarie Buckley, owner of Scout’s Honor Paper, points out, personalized notes “show the recipient that you spent time thinking about them and that you care.” As we head into the holiday season, the pressure’s on to just buy stuff and dole it out. We hope this issue inspires you to be more discriminating, and remember what Mom always said: It’s the thought that counts.
10/24/14 1:49 PM
“A smile is happiness you’ll find right under your nose.” — Tom Wilson, actor/writer/comedian
Timberlane Dental Group was founded in 1973 to provide comprehensive dental care extending throughout a patient’s life—from the first infant oral exam through adulthood. Today, 40-plus years later, we’re as happy as ever to be caring for Vermonters.
MEGAN JAMES, MANAGING EDITOR
Pediatric Dentistry General & Cosmetic Dentistry
Orthodontics Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Mary Ann Lickteig (“Fit Families”) of Burlington left daily journalism to be a full-time mom. Four kids later, she misses the relative calm of a newsroom.
KIDS VT
Angela Arsenault (“Use Your Words”) is a freelance writer who lives in Williston with her husband, 6-year-old daughter and 4-year-old son. Her next essay will likely be about learning how to roast a turkey.
NOVEMBER 2014
Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:
KIDSVT.COM
THE MOST MEMORABLE Christmas present I ever received was the dollhouse I got when I was 5. It was 3 feet tall and 4 feet across — huge, but made from wood that was almost as thin and flimsy as cardboard. “It was a piece of crap,” my mom confided recently. Still, I had so much fun with it. My mom and I picked up wallpaper and carpet sample books at the hardware store, cut out the small scraps inside and glued them to the walls and floors. I made tiny curtains to adorn the dollhouse windows and arranged miniature furniture. Unlike other gifts I received — the moon shoes I begged for, the green glitter eyeshadow, countless stuffed animals that I quickly abandoned — the dollhouse captured my interest and held it. I was in middle school before I stopped redecorating and rearranging the furniture in its rooms. What I loved more than anything else about that dollhouse was its broken chimney. When I discovered the gift on Christmas morning, it was accompanied by a handwritten apology from Santa Claus. The dollhouse was so big, he explained, that he had accidentally dropped it on the roof of our house.
Burlington, 1127 North Avenue • Essex Junction, 87 Main Street South Burlington, 60 Timber Lane • Shelburne, 5070 Shelburne Road 802-559-1190 • timberlanedental.com
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EVENTS
SEE AND SAY
We’re Jammin’
Readers Respond
Have you seen the Adams-Kollitzs’ incredible sculptural woodpile on Burlington’s Pine Street? Many of our readers have; nearly 500 of them “liked” our story about it on kidsvt.com.
Fabulous Firewood [Re: “Habitat,” October 2014]: I pass it every day on my way home from work to Hinesburg. I’ve always wondered who lived inside. Makes me smile every time I pass. Love the creativity! CALEN KING
Crazy for Coding
More than 500 students visited the 8th annual Vermont Tech Jam at Burlington’s Memorial Auditorium in October. They tried out Google Glass, tinkered with virtual robots, played Pac-Man with their feet and showed off their 3-D printed creations. Find more info and links to other techie events at techjamvt.com.
[Re: Trailblazing Teachers Bring Computer Programming into the Classroom,” October 2014]: Our class is hopefully heading up to Burlington for the UVM Computer Science Fair in December because I have a couple of kids who are starting to realize that they might just be good at computing! PHOTOS
WHITNEY MACHNIK
EW THOR
BY: MATTH
Machnik’s Montpelier High School computer science class was featured in the story.
SEN
GOT A COMMENT? Email us at feedback@kidsvt.com.
Will You Go Out With Me?
This is the first post in Arsenault’s new series chronicling the good, the bad and the ugly of date night.
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NOVEMBER 2014
KIDSVT.COM
B Y A NGELA A RSENAU LT
Angela Arsenault and Ryan Miller
My husband and I have decided to start dating again. We’ve been married for nine years and together for 13. Our daughter, Lionelle, was born in 2008, and our son, Dashiell, followed in 2010. We’ve now been married with kids twice as long as we were married without kids. And it shows. Read more at Our daily life kidsvt.com. and conversations revolve around our children. Who’s bringing them to school? What time does she need to be picked up? Even a seemingly general,
non-kid-specific question like, “What should we have for dinner?” inevitably turns into a conversation about which veggies our kids have eaten this week and how much cinnamon toast is too much. What we’re not talking about is how work’s been or what books we’re reading or ... whatever else couples talk about when they don’t have kids. Can we keep our relationship healthy if it remains on the periphery of our child-centered world? The answer, I fear, is no. I finally understand that if we’re not paying attention to the relationship that started it all, we’re doing it wrong…
The post was a big hit on the Kids VT Facebook page. Here’s some of what readers had to say: One of the biggest mistakes couples make is to stop dating. Every couple needs a scheduled date night. It reestablishes that connection and gives you both something to look forward to. Date night shows the value you feel towards one another, encourages growth and keeps relationships healthy.
JENNIFER ROBERSON Brilliant! I can’t wait to read more!
NICCI MICCO
Best of the Kids VT Blog
The winners of our three $25 gift certificates to Creative Habitat are:
On the Fly: Bumps in the Road
COLORING CONTEST
BY J E SS I C A LA RA TICKTIN
Kids VT contributor Jessica Lara Ticktin is traveling the world with her family, homeschooling three daughters along the way — while pregnant. She’s documenting her family’s adventures until they return to Vermont in December.
We spent our last night in Japan in an emergency room. One of my biggest fears leading up to this trip was that one of us would get injured or sick and end up at the mercy of foreign doctors, hoping to communicate and get the care we need. However, when I imagined this scenario, it was always one of my children hurt or sick, and me crazy with worry.
Gaming for Good BY MEGA N JA M ES
On October 25, thousands of people around the country participated in a fundraiser called Extra Life, a 24-hour video-gaming marathon to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Local gamers raised $15,705 for University of Vermont Children’s Hospital. A substantial portion of that money came from 8-year-old Noah Cohen.
We had just finished our last evening meal in Japan and were heading back to the ryokan, or inn, where we were staying before leaving for China in the morning. Walking through the neighborhood — a touristy but beautiful area built into the hills with shrines and winding streets filled with art galleries and restaurants — I noticed a lovely alleyway lit by the Japanese lanterns. When I saw a chance to cross over the main road, I did something I don’t normally do…
Hot diggity dog! We received 156 coloring contest entries in October, each more creative than the last. We loved how 11-year-old Rebecca Moriarty added whiskers and feline eyes to transform the Halloween hound into a cat. Ten-year-old Garrett Ward’s Superman pup was doggone heroic. And we were delighted to receive an entry from a 35-year-old, with the title, “Moms like to color, too!” Good on you, mama. And congratulations to all the winners!
BY E R I NN SI M O N Makes enough for 5 or 6 people. INGREDIENTS:
COLCHESTER
“Scary Pupp”
AMAZING TECHNICOLOR
Read more at kidsvt.com.
The St. George resident raised more than $4,000. Cohen has a special relationship with the hospital. Born with a rare variety of congenital anomalies, he has undergone 23 surgeries and seen more than a dozen specialists there. His mom, Amy Cohen, has always encouraged Noah to put his medical challenges in perspective…
Django B. Matchstick, 4, Montpelier BEAUTIFUL BATS
Emma McDonald, 10, Colchester SUPERB STRIPES
Aiyana Auer, 8, St. Albans CREATIVE COLOR COMBOS
Jaci Lucas, 6, Williston
DIRECTIONS: Heat the coconut oil in a large dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat for a few minutes. When it’s hot, add the chopped squash and onion and cook, stirring often for 4 to 5 minutes, until everything is coated in oil and the onion is starting to turn translucent.
Julia Cisz, 5, Waterbury CUTEST COLLAR
Evelyn Trojbom, 9, Barre
Add the salt and curry powder.
“Comic Dog”
Scarlett Whipkey, 7, South Burlington PERFECT PLAID
Skye Fitzhugh, 11, Jericho PARTY ANIMAL
Sage King, 5, Cabot TERRIFIC TRANSFORMATION
Rebecca Moriarty, 11, Jericho SUNSET SUPERHERO
Garrett Ward, 10, North Hero FLOWERY FASHION
Fiona McCormick, 5, Hinesburg
TOP TITLES “NOT EVIL, WICKED”
Nora Adele Englisch, 10, Williston
Antonio Socinski, 11
9 to 12
NORTH FERRISBURGH
“Bootiful”
“WITCH DOG-TOR!”
Keagan Rossi, 7, Berlin “WOOFER”
Molly Mannarino, 2, Essex Junction
Find this month’s coloring contest on page 50. The deadline for submissions is November 15.
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When it’s smooth, add the cream and blend a bit more. Add some black pepper to taste.
ESSEX
KIDS VT
Remove from the heat. Now it’s time to puree! Use an immersion blender right in the pot, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender or food processor.
Jacques LaCourciere, 8
NOVEMBER 2014
Add the coconut water until it covers the veggies. Cover the pot, reduce heat to medium low and simmer for about 30 minutes until the squash is very tender. You should be able to easily break the pieces apart with a wooden spoon.
6 to 8
JACK-O’-LANTERN EYES
KIDSVT.COM
1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1- to 2-inch chunks 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 1 tsp red curry paste (more if your family likes spice!) 2 tsp kosher salt 2 Tbsp coconut oil 12 oz coconut water — or enough to cover the squash and onions in the pot (I use Goya Coconut Water with Pulp.) 2/3 cup heavy cream 1 tsp curry powder Black pepper to taste
Sullie Martaniuk, 5
HONORABLE MENTIONS
GREAT GRAVE
Home Cookin’: Coconut-Squash Soup
5 and under
THE
BEAT
BY ME G AN J AME S
MUSIC
Barn Dance
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KIDS VT
NOVEMBER 2014
KIDSVT.COM
;
MR. WOODHEAD’S PARTY IN THE ANIMAL BARN : Available for $15 at Shelburne Farms, Apple Mountain in Burlington, the Old Brick Store in Charlotte and mrwoodhead.com.
TECHNOLOGY
The Future of History Much has been written about Vermont’s rich collection of historic buildings, but often that information is hard to find — or doesn’t exist — online. A new contest aims to change that. The 3D VERMONT: TOWN HISTORY IN 3D COMPETITION seeks to populate Google Earth with historic data collected by Vermont high school students. The competition challenges teams of students to create 3D models of their towns’ notable buildings using the free software SketchUp. In the process, they’ll research and document the stories of these local landmarks, which they’ll present in a multimedia showcase at the contest’s culminating event next March. Organizers are calling it “the high school Olympiad of architectural history in Vermont.” There, the student-made models will be 3D-printed and affixed to a giant map of the state. Participants’ creations will be judged on architectural and historical accuracy; the winning teams will get Nexus tablets for their school. The competition is organized by a coalition of partners including the State of Vermont, the Preservation Trust of Vermont, Google and Hartford High School, where teacher Mike Hathorn has been using SketchUp and 3D printing to teach his history class. Hathorn’s students have already mapped a number of historic buildings in White River Junction. “3D printing has been a critical tool in the classroom,” said Hathorn in a press release. “It’s a hands-on method for teaching history to a technologically minded generation. It’s mentally and technically challenging, and above all, it’s fun.”
COURTESY OF KELLY FLETCHER
Chittenden Solid Waste District 4t
Vermont performer Woody Keppel knows how to make people laugh. The founder of Burlington’s annual Festival of Fools began his career in 1981, playing silent comic roles with the Opera Company of Boston. A decade ago, he made a comic kids’ movie, Woodhead Saves the Farm, in which a bumbling farmhand makes a mess of Shelburne Farms right before a public appearance by Senator Patrick Leahy. Now Keppel has released a related CD of his silly songs, MR. WOODHEAD’S PARTY IN THE ANIMAL BARN, featuring local musicians, including Gordon Stone and Dave Grippo. “It’s pop music, and it’s really danceable,” says Keppel. The eclectic mix includes tunes such as the Caribbean-inflected “Get Happy” and “When an Elephant Has to Sneeze,” which uses a trombone to capture the pachyderm’s lumbering sound. “The disc is in heavy rotation here at our house,” says Kids VT contributor Erik Esckilsen. “And the music is good.”
eAT. LeArN. PLAY. courTesY
maTerniTy
Research has shown that women who give birth with help from a doula — a support person trained in labor and delivery — experience fewer medical interventions and shorter labors. But hiring a doula can cost several hundred dollars, and most insurance companies don’t cover the cost. Enter Handle WiTH loVe, Francesca Arnoldy’s new scholarship fund. “I believe all women deserve access to that kind of birth experience,” says Arnoldy. The Hinesburg doula has partnered with the nonprofit Mama Says to raise money for Vermont families wishing to hire a doula; they granted the first scholarship last month. Want to support the effort? Purchase Arnoldy’s adorable bibs, onesies, tote bags and other products, designed and screen printed by New Duds of Winooski. A portion of the purchase price goes to the fund.
YOUTH LEASE PROGRAM
of frANce scA ArNo LdY
Can Doula
NEW FOR WINTER 2015
CHOPPER SNOWBOARD, GROM BOOT, GROM BINDING INCLUDES A LEARNERS PERMIT PACKAGE GOOD FOR 3 BEGINNERS LESSONS FROM SMUGGLERS NOTCH AND MORE!
GET YOUR GROM KITTED UP FOR THE SEASON. Handle WiTH loVe: Need-based scholarships of up to $500 are available. For more information, visit handlewithlovevt.com or stop by Arnoldy’s booth at the Fletcher Allen Health Care vendor fair on November 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A portion of sales from Bluebird Barbecue Community Night on November 12 will benefit the fund.
CHECK OUT OUR YOUTH SNOWBOARDING LEASE PROGRAM NOW AVAILABLE FOR KIDS AGED 7 AND UNDER.
KidsVT.com November 2014 Kids VT
80 Industrial Parkway Burlington VT 05401 802-660-3200 Facebook.com/BurtonBurlington
3d VermonT: ToWn HisTory in 3d compeTiTion: Teams must register by November 14. Learn more and register at 3dvermont.org.
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EAT. LEARN. PLAY. ✱ FIT FAMILIES
B Y M ARY ANN L IC KT E IG
NOVEMBER 2014 KIDS VT
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IT’S EARLY. So early that the moon’s still bright and stars twinkle over Leddy Park Arena in Burlington. The 10 skaters of Vermont Children’s Theatre on Ice have just arrived to learn routines and drill jumps, turns and spins. And, on this October morning, practice the twist. “It’s not wagging your tail,” says co-coach Martha Harding, a 40-year veteran skating coach decked out in a stadium coat, fleece headband and knit gloves. “It’s shoulders against hips, so your hands move opposite your feet.” She shimmies while she talks. Troupe members — nine girls and one boy, ages 9 to 19 — are working on their choreographic exercise, the two-and-a-halfminute program they will take to the National Theatre on Ice Competition in Massachusetts next June. It requires them to tell a story without speaking — and without the help of costumes, makeup or props. They’ll get to use those last three things in their 5-minute program, known as the free skate. These skaters are dedicated. In addition to this once-a-week hourlong practice at 5:50 a.m., they commit to weekly lessons and practicing on their own. Their hard work has paid off. The troupe won first place at nationals in 2006 and third place last year. In 2010 the kids traveled to France to compete against teams from other countries in the invitation-only Nations Cup. Pretty impressive for a small state, which happens to be the birthplace of Theatre on Ice in the United States. VCTI, started in 1996, is the oldest troupe of its kind in the nation. Founder Nancy Fillebrown is still the team’s other co-coach. Theatre on Ice is a team sport that combines skating, drama and dance. It sprouted from a Project Harmony exchange that brought Russian ballet on ice performers to Vermont in 1991.
PHOTOS: MATTHEW THORSEN
KIDSVT.COM
Theatre on Ice
The season’s young; join the team!
Contact team manager Sharron Scott at srs01240@yahoo.com. Not sure your child is ready? Check out SK8 Across the Stage, VCTI’s feeder program for ages 5 to 18. Find more info at enjoyburlington.com and champlain valleyskatingclub.org, 865-7558.
Showtime
VCTI and other local skaters perform at Burlington’s Leddy Park in: “The Gift,” Leddy Park Arena’s holiday show, December 13, 2 p.m. Theatre on Ice Festival, March 28-29, “Magical Mystery Tour,” May 9, 3 p.m.
Vermont skaters visited the same troupe in Moscow 10 months later, brought the theatrical style home and introduced it to U.S. Figure Skating, the sport’s national governing body.
USFS now sanctions and governs Theatre on Ice competitions, which have grown in popularity and include adult and child divisions. Six teams participated in the nation’s first competition at the University of Vermont
in 1996; 65 teams competed at nationals last year in Michigan. The team aspect is a big part of the appeal. Figure skating is a very individual sport — kind of lonely, Harding says. With increasing pressure to land jumps and perfect spins, skaters tend to lose interest and drop out as they get older. Theatrical skating keeps them involved. “There’s a place for everyone in Theatre on Ice,” says VCTI team manager Sharron Scott. “You don’t have to be the best jumper; you don’t have to be the best spinner … You can have a child that lights up the arena with their smile … and that makes a huge difference.” Any skater who’s at least 7 years old and can pass USFS’s most basic test, called “prepreliminary moves in the field,” can join VCTI. Skaters may participate until age 25, as long as they’re in school. VCTI features a wide range of ages and abilities, and no one is the star — highlighting a single skater is discouraged. Twelve-year-old Sofia Anderson Harrington of Burlington joined VCTI this year. “It’s like Sofia got nine big siblings, so it’s really wonderful,” says her mom, Susan Harrington. Practices start so early because kids have the fewest conflicts during that time, Fillebrown says. Evan Marnell, 14, and Lindsey Kalamasz, 15, get up at 4 a.m. on practice days. He lives in Fairfax; she’s nearby in Essex, but likes to have time to get ready before leaving the house at 5:15. By 6:28, some of the parents have gone out for coffee while the kids practice. “All right, go to the beginning again,” Harding says. Skaters break into three groups and crouch down on the ice. Their program song, “Monster Mash,” starts to play, beginning, “I was working in the lab, late one night … ” Group by group, the skaters rise. Blades scrape the ice and ponytails fly, all before most kids have even rolled out of bed.
“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.
Q CHECK UP
w it h d r . l ew i s f i r s t
what's causing the increased prevalence of peanut allergies ? IT’S nEArly ImPoSSIblE to enter a school or daycare center these days without seeing a sign that reads, “This is a peanut-free environment.” Those signs were far less common when today’s parents were kids. This month, Kids VT asked Dr. Lewis First, head of pediatrics at University of Vermont Children’s Hospital, why everyone’s suddenly so nuts about food allergies.
KIDS VT: Are childhood peanut allergies on the rise?
LEWIS FIRST: Yes. The prevalence of food allergies among children increased 18 percent between 1997 and 2007. The annual incidence of someone developing a peanut allergy went from about 0.4 percent in 2000 to 1.4 percent today.
KVT: Do we know why?
LF: There are many plausible theories but, unfortunately, there’s still very little scientific evidence to confirm any of them. The first involves hygiene. Our immune systems get stronger by being exposed to lots of things. But Western society has done so much to essentially sterilize our environment that our bodies have nothing to react to. Before, our bodies combated life-threatening infections. Now our bodies are turning against some foods.
KVT: Could genetically engineered food be a factor?
LF: Yes. Another theory holds that the genetic changes made to our food are altering how our bodies respond to food, resulting in inflammation.
KVT: Any more theories?
KVT: Could vaccines be a cause?
THE FLYNN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS BURLINGTON, VERMONT
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KVT: Can parents do anything to prevent a peanut allergy?
LF: Our approach to protecting children has changed. In the early 2000s, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended not introducing milk products until kids are a year old, and peanuts and shellfish until they’re 3. Later studies showed no evidence that delaying an allergic food group was beneficial, so the AAP retracted its position in 2008. Other studies have shown that if you introduce an allergic food when your child is 4 to 6 months old, you may actually decrease his or her chances of developing a food allergy. However, if you introduce those foods before 4 months, you run an increased risk.
KVT: Why?
LF: While the immune system is still “in training,” it learns to recognize potential allergens as friends, not enemies.
KVT: How should parents introduce foods that could cause an allergic reaction?
LF: Introduce one new food at home and have an antihistamine available, in case your child has difficulty breathing in an allergic reaction. If your child has not had a problem after two or three days, you can give her more of that food. I would introduce no more than one new food every three to five days to ensure there’s not going to be a reaction.
Presented by
in person: 153 Main St., Burlington by phone: 802-86-FLYNN, v/relay online: www.flynntix.org
KVT: Any exceptions?
7/2 TUE
Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO) TD Bank Summer Festival Tour @ Hunter Fairground, Manchester
7/3 WED
VSO TD Bank Summer Festival Tour @ Grafton Ponds, Grafton
7/4 THU
VSO TD Bank Summer Festival Tour @ Shelburne Farms, Shelburne
FOR INFO 878-2941 • P.O.BOX 8147 ESSEX, VT WWW.VBTS.ORG • INFO@VBTS.ORG 7/5 FRI
VSO TD Bank Summer Festival Tour @ Suicide Six Ski Area, South Pomfret
7/6 SAT
Gallery Exhibit: Clark Russell: “Mixed Media” (Saturdays through 8/24) @ Amy E. Tarrant Gallery
7/6 SAT
VSO TD Bank Summer Festival Tour @ Jay Peak Resort, Jay Peak
7/7 SUN
VSO TD Bank Summer Festival Tour @ Trapp Concert Meadow, Stowe
7/9 TUE
Circus Smirkus (7/9-11) @ Champlain Valley Exposition, Essex Junction
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interview compiled and condensed by ken picard
JULY 2013 SPONSORED BY WCAX
KIDS VT
LF: If there’s a family history of a food allergy, it’s better to have your infant tested at about six months to make sure they’re not at risk.
november 2014
LF: There’s a faction that believes that the adjuvant chemicals used in vaccines contain microscopic amounts of peanut oil. If you graph the frequency of vaccinations to the increased incidence of peanut allergies, you could say, “Uh, oh!” However, all the vaccine manufacturers insist, as does the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, that there is no peanut oil extract in any childhood-vaccine adjuvants.
VERMONT’S OWN CHRISTMAS TRADITION 10TH ANNIVERSARY DECEMBER 20, 2014 2pm & 7pm DECEMBER 21, 2014 1pm & 6pm
KIDSVT.Com
LF: Other studies suggest that people with low vitamin D levels are three times as likely to develop a food allergy. This may be because kids are spending less time in the sun, or possibly because they’re eating foods lower in vitamin D content.
Nutcracker
The
7/10 WED Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell @ Flynn MainStage
k2v-VTBS1114.indd 1
7/14 SUN
17th Annual Flynn Garden Tour @ Gardens located in Shelburne
7/14 SUN
Viva Vivaldi @ McCarthy Arts Center Recital Hall, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester
10/30/14 1:24 PM
7/15 MON Vermont Summer Music Festival: Gilbert & Sullivan @ McCarthy Arts Center Recital Hall, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester
®
Celebrate your Birthday at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory!
All parties include: • A private tour • A Make a Friend for Life® Bear for each child
✱ DIGITAL DILEMMAS B Y EL A I N E Y OU N G
Q:
• Private party space staffed by a Vermont Teddy Bear Ambassador.
Ask about our different party packages! The Vermont Teddy Bear Company 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT (802)985-3001 ext. 1700 • birthdayparties@vtbear.com k6h-VTTeddyBear0614.indd 1
5/28/14 5:03 PM
My daughter just got a Gmail account through her school. How do I teach her the etiquette of communicating over email? MANAGING EMAIL — a tough task to begin with — gets even more complicated when your child comes home from school with a Gmail account. Many Vermont schools use Google Apps for Education, a free suite of communication and software tools. It’s a great option for educators, allowing easy access to word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, calendars and email. Students use these applications to keep tabs on class work, collaborate on documents and communicate with peers and teachers. But don’t assume that your daughter will learn all she needs to know about using email at school. The day she gets her first email account, sit down with her to discuss how to write an email. This mode of communication is more formal than Facebook or texting; careful spelling is important. And make sure she understands what is and isn’t appropriate to send over email. Explain the difference between a message that relays helpful information, or asks good questions about homework, and one that might upset a friend, such as a chain email. Show her the difference between the “to,” “cc” and “bcc” fields. When sending an email to many people, it’s a good idea to put everyone’s addresses in the bcc field so they remain private. Talk with
her about the important distinction between “reply” and “reply all.” Show her how to delete messages and make sure she knows about spam — where it might come from (signing up for websites) and how to recognize it. If the words “free,” “meet” or “earn money” are in the subject line of an email, for example, it might be spam. Google Apps for Education has built-in protections to keep your daughter from seeing content you don’t want her to see. Still, remind her not to give her email address to just anyone. As with any technology, watch how your daughter manages it, and don’t be afraid to step in if necessary. Finally, ask your daughter’s school about training sessions for children and parents.
KIDS VT
NOVEMBER 2014
KIDSVT.COM
Talk with her about the important distinction between “reply” and “reply all.”
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Elaine Young is the author of Tuned-In Family: How to Cope, Communicate & Connect in a Digital World, and is a professor at Champlain College, where she specializes in digital marketing and social media. Got a question about navigating the digital world with your family? Send it to ideas@kidsvt.com. k3v-UVMAthletics1114.indd 1
10/29/14 3:07 PM
✱ BOOKWORMS
EAT. LEARN. PLAY.
Readers’ Picks
In anticipation of holiday gift giving, Kids VT asked parents and educators to identify the best children’s books they’ve read this year.
One
BY KATHRYN OTOSHI
Red likes to pick on Blue. The other colors know that’s wrong, but they’re afraid to speak up. Luckily, a character named One helps the colors work together to solve their problem. This Age seemingly simple book about primary 3+ and secondary colors, numbers and counting teaches kids to accept each other’s differences. Lisa Aschbacher reads this book aloud to preschoolers in her arts-based literacy classes. An educator for VSA Vermont, which supports Vermonters with developmental disabilities, she says it helps them understand how words and actions can hurt or heal. After reading, she prompts rich discussion by posing questions such as, “What makes us feel happy and important?” and “What makes us feel lonely and unimportant?” This book, Aschbacher explains, “should be read by young and old for the very basic and important lesson that it illustrates: Sometimes, it just takes one.”
Little Red Bird BY NICK BRUEL
Little Red Bird is happy in her cage but curious to see what’s beyond it. When the door is left open, she flies out to explore the larger world. Will she return to her home or keep her newfound freedom? Bristol resident Michelle Steele, mom to Matthew, 4, and Sam, 6 months, says she loves the story because of its wonderful rhymes, colorful illustrations and, especially, Ages its ambiguous ending. “Just when you wonder 3-6 what the message of the book is going to be and what the bird will choose, it ends with the words, ‘I wonder, what would YOU do?’” she explains. “The end is open, which is so rare in children’s books, where authors so often feel the need to preach the ‘right’ answer to readers.”
Masterpiece
Book-Review Winners Congratulations to these enthusiastic young critics who shared their reading recommendations with us in October. Each wins a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop in Burlington. We loved reading about all the entrants’ favorite books and have included some excerpts below.
Lucas Cannizzaro, 5 ESSEX JUNCTION
recommends:
Magic Tree House: Ghost Town at Sundown by Mary Pope Osborne
“I liked it when Jack and Annie were in the ghost town and met Lonesome Luke — a ghost who plays the piano.”
Alan Moody, 9 CABOT
recommends:
The Return of Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
“My favorite part is when Zita meets a skeleton who tries to convince her to try escaping again. The skeleton has keys, drills and saws as toes. He offers them to her but she says no. This part was really funny.”
Rosie Perkinson, 8 NORTH FERRISBURGH
recommends:
The Higher Power of Lucky by Susan Patron
“This book is about a girl named Lucky whose mother has died. She has a guardian named Brigitte and she lives in Hard Pan, California (population 43). My favorite part was when Lucky decided to run away.”
BY ELISE BROACH
WASHINGTON
recommends:
Summer Pony
by Jean Slaughter Doty
“My favorite part was when Ginny really wanted to keep her pony and her parents said it was a lot of work. Then the man who Ginny rented it from had to sell all of his ponies, so for a surprise, Ginny’s parents bought the pony for her.”
KIDS VT
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Next month’s contest has an exciting new format. Find the December/January book-inspired writing prompt on page 45. The deadline is November 15. Happy reading … and writing!
NOVEMBER 2014
Recommendations compiled by Alison Novak
Emily Hunt, 10 KIDSVT.COM
An unlikely friendship develops between an 11-year-old boy, James, and Marvin, a beetle who lives under his sink, in this story, which Publisher’s Weekly named as one of the best children’s books of 2008. When James is recruited to create a fake masterpiece for the Ages Metropolitan Museum of Art in order to catch thief, he relies on Marvin to help pull off the 8-12 aplan. Burlington dad Patrick Henry calls the book “a wonderful mystery full of twists and turns.” He read it on his own prior to reading it with his kids, Thomas, 12, and Kate, 11. “I braced myself for their shrieks as each plot twist unveiled itself,” he says. “My children did not disappoint me. At one point, they jumped up off the bed and screamed, ‘No!’ in surprise.”
THE LEARNING CENTER AT HEALTHY LIVING
FALL SWEET POTATO FRIES WITH ZESTY DIPPING SAUCE For Zesty Dipping Sauce: 1 package Vermont Creamery crème crÊme fraÎche fraiche 1 small bunch chives; minced 1 tsp ground cumin 1 Tbsp honey (local is best!) Squeeze of lemon juice In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and reserve.
For the Sweet Potato Fries: 3 large sweet potatoes 1 Tbsp cornstarch
Directions: Preheat oven to 435 degrees. Cut potatoes in French fry-shaped pieces and place in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with 1 Tbsp corn starch and salt and pepper as desired. Pour fries onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread into a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes, ip fries, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Serve with dipping sauce.
Don’t forget to order your Thankgiving turkeys, pies, and sides by 11/21!
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Kids VT
November 2014
kidsvt.com
Salt and pepper; as desired
KIDS IN THE KITCHEN IN NOVEMBER • Pumpkin Pancakes • Wednesday, 11/5 ¡ 4:00 - 5:00pm • $20 • Knife Skills • Thursday, 11/13 ¡ 4:00 - 5:00pm • $20 All classes require pre-registration. For a full schedule, or to register, go to healthylivingmarket.com; or call Customer Service at 802.863.2569. DORSET STREET, SOUTH BURLINGTON × . . × HEALTHYLIVINGMARKET.COM × AM- PM SEVEN DAYS A WEEK k1-HealthyLiving1114.indd 1
10/31/14 11:04 AM
Q Mealtime By E ri nn Sim o n
EAT. LEARN. PLAY.
Giving Thanks for Homemade Stuffing Sarah Adams-Kollitz with Burlington Children’s Space kids.
stuffing. Actually, it always comes from — gasp — a box. But Sarah insisted it was pretty easy. For advice, she called her mom, who reminded Sarah of her mom’s recipe,
which involved bread that’s at least a day old and lots — lots — of butter. We recreated that recipe. It turns out that making delicious homemade stuffing for a crowd is no big
Thanksgiving Stuffing — Burlington Children’s Space Style
dish and scatter three or four pats of butter over the top.
This is the basic BCS recipe, with a few twists, scaled down to serve 8.
Remove the foil and continue baking until the top is golden brown and you have some crispy crunchy bits, probably about 30 minutes more.
Ingredients
Directions Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Melt the stick of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, sage and thyme. Add some salt and pepper and cook for 5 minutes or so, until the veggies soften up.
Beat the eggs in a large bowl, then add in the cubed bread and the vegetable-broth mixture. Toss until well combined.
Here are a few variations: Roasted Vegetables: Dice 8 cups of your favorite winter veggies (squash, carrots, parsnips, potatoes, sweet potatoes, red onion, etc.) and roast at 400 degrees until they’re nice and golden, about 25 minutes. Use the veggies in place of half of the cubed bread in the original recipe.
The finished dish! So much better than boxed stuffing! Cooking down the onions.
Kale and Parmesan: Add four cups chopped kale (tough stems removed) when you pour the broth into the onion and celery; simmer. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of
grated Parmesan cheese over the dish when you remove the foil. Sourdough: Use cubed, stale sourdough bread.
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“Mealtime” is a feature about families and food. Got a topic you’d like us to explore? Email it to ideas@kidsvt.com.
Kids VT
Transfer the whole thing to a buttered 13-by-9-inch baking
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
November 2014
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
deal. And if you’re in the mood for something unconventional, endless variations are possible. Pro tip: It’s much easier to get creative when you’re cooking for just one family. K
kidsvt.com
1 stick of butter, plus more for the pan and the top of the stuffing 2 cups finely chopped onion 2 cups finely chopped celery 1 Tbsp minced fresh sage 1 Tbsp minced fresh thyme (To substitute dried herbs, use an extra teaspoon of each.) 3 cups turkey, chicken or veggie broth 2 eggs 16 cups cubed, day-old, or even a-few-days-old, bread Salt and pepper to taste
photos courtesy of erinn simon
This month, Burlington Children’s Space will hold its 6th annual Thanksgiving Family Dinner. My favorite school tradition, it’s come to define the holiday season for me. Each year on the Thursday before Thanksgiving, BCS director Sarah Adams-Kollitz and I are in the kitchen by 7 a.m. We have a huge job: Cooking a full meal for 150 children, parents, extended family members, alumni and community partners. We roast three enormous turkeys, prep tons of veggies, warm studentbaked rolls and, most impressively in my opinion, make homemade stuffing. We have help. Teachers drop by the kitchen during breaks between classes to help chop and prep. As the afternoon rolls on, parents and friends show up to mash potatoes, set tables and carve the birds. It’s a lot of work, but it’s such a joyful community effort that the whole day — not just the dinner that night — feels like a party. Still, when Sarah proposed that we make the stuffing from scratch the first year, it made me a little nervous. I don’t cook Thanksgiving dinner for my brood; my mom’s generation still has that duty. And though my family is full of good cooks with signature Thanksgiving dishes, we don’t have a go-to recipe for
✱ GO ASK DAD
Q:
INTERVIEWS COMPILED AND CONDENSED BY THEA LEWIS
What’s the most fun you’ve ever had with your kids in the snow? CHAPIN SPENCER BURLINGTON DIRECTOR, BURLINGTON PUBLIC WORKS
Daughter Zia, 3
We took my daughter, Zia, ice skating on Lake Champlain. It wasn’t exactly in the snow, but we did trek through snow to get there. We brought a sled with us, and when she got tired, she would climb onto it. Her grandfather, who was there with us, got the idea of skating around in a circle and swinging the sled — with her on it — around him. He spun her around and around. She got a real hoot out of that. It was wonderful to see her skating on such a great big lake, and watching her eyes open wide when she stared through the ice to see the plants and fish at the bottom.
EMMET HELRICH BURLINGTON COORDINATOR, RAPID INTERVENTION COMMUNITY COURT
Sons Luke, 36, Emmet, 33 and Jack, 5
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We like to go to the golf course with our dog, William. He’s a good runner; he jumps in and out of the snow like a dolphin does in the ocean. Trudging through the snow is tougher for a little kid, but my son Jack just loves getting bundled up and going out in his showshoes. There’s a little island of grass between our house and our neighbor’s. Last winter, I was shoveling the driveway and began mounding snow over there, all around Jack. It was deliciously fun to watch his face while I buried him up to his waist in that pile of snow. He loved it!
9/24/14 11:20 AM
Planning a winter kids event?
11/21/13 3:26 PM
List it for free in the Kids VT monthy calendar. Submit your December and January events by the November 15th of the month online at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com
KIDS VT
AUGUST 20132014KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER KIDSVT.COM
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MIKE CZARNY WILLISTON MORNING RADIO HOST, STAR 92.9
Ethan has always loved the snow. He likes snowboarding, and the two of us have built snow forts and gone sledding. I can picture this day when he was about 3 or 4 years old: Snow had piled up on our cars, and he came outside with me to be “Dad’s little helper” getting the snow off his mom’s car. He had on a little blue jacket and a red hat with a furry ball on top and strings down the sides. He was holding a broom about three times as tall as he was. I was doing all the real work, but there he was, just so cute and determined, swiping away at the sides of the car. It was great. He thought he was a really big deal.
calendar 10/27/14 12v-calendar.indd 10:49 AM 1
EMMET HELRICH
Son Ethan, 12
16 k8v-MapleLandmark1114.indd 1
It was deliciously fun to watch his face while I buried him up to his waist in that pile of snow.
10/31/14 12:21 PM
“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.
Q THE ART OF
EAT. LEARN. PLAY.
By a lison novak
courtesy of wingspan studio
Card Making The simplest gifts are often the most meaningful. Consider the homemade card. With just a few materials from around the house or from nature — and a little imagination — kids can create a greeting that will put a smile on a friend’s face, or make Grandma and Grandpa swoon. We asked local art educators and card makers for tips on creating stand-out greetings — for the holiday season, or just because. “I love cards because they’re tangible. You can hold them in your hands, tack them on your walls or fridge or even frame them,” says Scout’s Honor Paper founder Annemarie Buckley. She’s been selling homemade cards since she was a kid — in lieu of lemonade, she says. “They show the recipient that you spent time thinking about them and that you care,” she explains. “In a sea of fleeting, and often deleted, texts and emails, this can mean so much.” Recycle old items.
“Keep a few containers of potential treasures on hand,” says Maggie Standley of Wingspan Studio in Burlington. Bottle tops, old maps, packaging labels, buttons and used envelopes are all great materials to reuse.
Make it sparkle.
Use blue and green watercolors to create a simple landscape of water and mountains, says Finnie Trimpi, programming director of ArtisTree Community Arts Center in South Pomfret. Embellish a small detail — like a sun or the horizon line — with glitter.
Draw from nature.
Go on an outdoor walk to collect flowers, leaves and other organic materials to affix to your card, says Standley. Try squishing and rubbing geranium petals or grass on paper to make natural pigment.
Personalize it.
Create a monogrammed card by making a large drawing of the first letter in the recipient’s name, suggests Standley. Brainstorm other things that start with that letter and decorate the card with images of those things. For example, Grandma might get a card with pictures of gorillas and Gandhi. Or create a collaged portrait of the card recipient.
Cut and paste.
For a clean finish, preschoolers and older kids can decorate a large piece of paper. Cut out the most interesting parts and glue them to prefolded card stock, leaving a half-inch border as a frame, suggests Trimpi.
Other Things to Consider Envelopes are a great way to add additional color,
Borrow from the best.
Wrap your card in newspaper or magazine pages,
Cards aren’t just for special occasions.
Give them “when friends or family need a little encouragement or you just want to say hello,” says Buckley. “Celebrating the everyday is unexpected and can be even more meaningful.”
Stamp with veggies and paint.
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“The Art of” spotlights creative skills that enrich kids’ lives. Got a class or teacher to recommend? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
Kids VT
Use cookie cutters to cut raw potato slices into festive shapes, suggests Becca McHale from the newly opened ONE Arts Center in Burlington. For more complex rose- or mum-like floral prints, experiment with cabbages, celery, radicchio and endive. Try carrots with the tips trimmed off, okra or cranberries for smaller stamps.
Really little kids can’t make their own cards. But you can cut and collage pieces of their art work into new shapes — the way children’s book author Eric Carle does in his illustrations, says early childhood educator and mom of two Heather Duhamel.
november 2014
topped with a string or yarn bow to elevate the card to a unique work of art, says Standley.
kidsvt.com
says Buckley. If the card is a painting, the envelope is the wall color.
That’s a Wrap GGUIIFT
T
DE
B Y M EGAN J AM ES AND A L IS O N NOVAK
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NOVEMBER 2014
KIDSVT.COM
he holidays are coming. What are you going to get for the kids in your life? Sure, you could pick up the hottest new LEGO or Frozen paraphernalia. But what if the goal is something so unique they’ll remember it when they’re grown up? To get readers’ creative juices flowing, Kids VT spoke with some knowledgeable gift-giving experts — local toy- and booksellers — about the best kids gifts they ever gave or received. We also asked them to make recommendations from their stores. We weren’t looking for the hot new bestsellers that might end up buried in the back of the closet, but the toys and books that kids will return to year after year. Read on for their stories and suggestions.
Look for love at first sight KAREN WILLIAMS-FOX, owner of Woodbury Mountain Toys in Montpelier, wanted just one thing for Christmas when she was 8: a huge stuffed lion named Rufus. “It was really goofy and looked nothing like a lion,” she explains. “My parents thought I was crazy and said ‘No way! You don’t need any more stuffed animals. You’ll grow out of it.’” After their naysaying, Williams-Fox was that much more excited to find Rufus sitting on the sofa when she came downstairs on Christmas morning. “I screamed with joy,” Williams-Fox says. “I had that lion forever. Even my children played with it.”
W
illiams-Fox recommends MASTER KITZ with paints, pastels, stencils and stickers to help kids make their own versions of masterpieces from artists such as Monet and Matisse. “You get to learn the techniques these artists used,” says Williams-Fox, “and you end up with a finished product you can hang on the wall.” Appropriate for ages 4 and up. Master Kitz, $35 at Woodbury Mountain Toys
N
ancy Barringer, owner of Jamie Two Coats Toy Shop in Shelburne, likes KATHE KRUSE dolls for babies and toddlers. The German-made dolls, which come in both girl and boy versions, have cloth faces and soft velour bodies stuffed with cotton and wool. “A snuggly first friend,” suggests Barringer. A more realistic-looking version with a vinyl face is available for older children. For ages 1 and up, Barringer is also a fan of wooden peg dolls with matching bowls by German toy company GRIMM’S. The toys are “so tactile” and great for learning colors and counting. They pair well with Grimm’s colorful wooden house blocks, creating “so much potential for open-ended play,” says Barringer. Kathe Kruse baby/toddler dolls, $69; wooden peg dolls with matching bowls, $59; small set of wooden house blocks, $75 at Jamie Two Coats Toy Shop
Make it magical
KIDS VT
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Animalium, $28; Gus & Me: The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar, $14.40 at the Flying Pig Bookstore
NOVEMBER 2014
luemle says she’s excited about Animalium,, an oversize reference picture book for kids 7 and up curated by Katie Scott and Jenny Broom. She describes it as “a gorgeous collection of illustrations of the animal world with a little information.” Another noteworthy new release is GUS & ME: THE STORY OF MY GRANDDAD AND MY FIRST GUITAR, an autobiographical picture book by Keith Richards. Yes, that Keith Richards. It’s “a simple, lovely, universally appealing story of a grandfather sharing his humor, adventurous spirit and creative passion with his grandson,” says Bluemle.
KIDSVT.COM
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“My father was the world’s best gift giver,” remembers ELIZABETH BLUEMLE BLUEMLE, co-owner of the Flying Pig Bookstore in Shelburne. “He was a magician by hobby, so he had a finely tuned sense of what might delight and enchant children and adults. “He paid close attention to his giftees’ passions and preferences. My grandmother always received a clever, unusual kitchen gadget for Christmas; my mom, something simple and elegant; my sister, something sporty or rugged. For me, he chose beguiling miniature things, and wonderful books. “And he added an extra magic touch to everything! My sister and I might find small ceramic fortune cookies in our stockings, with tiny pull-out messages from my father to each of us.” Bluemle says her father’s knack for picking out just the right present has influenced her as a bookseller. “I’m not sure who recommended the books my father chose for me — there weren’t many neighborhood bookstores in Scottsdale, Arizona, back in the 1960s and ’70s — but someone helped him find the best of the best. Now, when I help someone find a special book for a child, I often think about how magical those gifts were for me, and try to put just the right book into those hands.”
Gift Guide
CONTINUED FROM P. 19
R
ebecca Chauvin, director of operations for Vergennes-based toy manufacturer WowToyz recommends its CUDDLE ZOO PLUSH DINOSAURS. The stuffed prehistoric animals can stand unassisted and feature life-like details. They’re “irresistibly huggable” and “perfect even for the youngest dinosaur enthusiast,” Chauvin says. Cuddle Zoo plush dinosaurs, $3.95 to $29.95, depending on size; available at Buttered Noodles, Homeport, Shelburne Supermarket and Kidstructive Fun at the Burlington Town Center
B
uttered Noodles staffer Corey Bushey is a fan of KINETIC SAND by Waba Fun, which has magnetic components to make it easily shapeable; it’s recommended for ages 3 and up. “It’s an amazing sensory item,” she says. It’s nontoxic as well, “ just in case it makes its way into little ones’ mouths.” Kinetic Sand, $14.99 for a 1-kilo box at Buttered Noodles
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Find the perfect match When COLLEEN SHIPMAN’s 12-year-old daughter, Emily, was younger, she wasn’t into books. She wanted to be a cheerleader. That was “tough” for her mom, the longtime manager of Phoenix Books in Essex Junction. But Emily eventually started hitting the books — because of the perfect gift, says her mom. Shipman was at a bookselling conference a couple of years ago when she stumbled upon Undead by Kirsty McKay. “The cover caught my eye,” she says, describing a comically gruesome illustration: the bottom half of a uniformed cheerleader holding a blood-dripping axe. The edgy middle-grade novel is written with a sarcastic sense of humor Shipman thought her daughter would enjoy. And she knew Emily would connect with the cheerleader protagonist. The best part, Shipman noted, was that the copy she gave her daughter was autographed. And Emily loved “the story of me going on a business trip and finding it for her,” says Shipman. These days, Emily reads voraciously, says her book-loving mother with great relief.
hipman suggests OUTSIDE by Vermont author Deirdre Gill, which is recommended for ages 3 to 8. “It’s a beautiful winter story,” she says. A little boy asks his older brother to play, but he’s busy on a computer. The younger boy “goes out into the snow and flops into it,” says Shipman. “The snow is fluffy and supportive. You know how it feels.” Catch the author — and pick up a copy — at a book-signing event at Phoenix Books in Burlington on November 8 at 2 p.m. Outside, $16.99 at Phoenix Books
S
ometimes the best bet is a timeless board game. Benoit says you can’t go wrong with RISK, the game of world domination. “People want a toy that’s going to allow their kids to play with it over and over again,” she says. “Risk is a classic.” Kids City has the current Hasbro version and a retro 1959 version that includes a larger game board and wooden “army” pieces. Risk, current version, $29.99; retro version, $39.99 at Kids City
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KIDS VT
The most memorable gift for Kids City operations manager TINA BENOIT was inspired by The Polar Express. She and her son, Jordan, now 26, used to read it together, starting when he was 8. In the story, a boy travels on a mysterious train to Santa’s village, where he selects a bell to take with him. But when he gets home, the bell is missing. Benoit was a big fan of the book’s author, Chris Van Allsburg, and “how his storytelling evoked a sense of mystery.” Each night between Thanksgiving and Christmas that year, Benoit and her son read a few pages together. Around this time, Jordan had been coming home from school asking his mother if Santa Claus was real. “Well, Jordan, he is if you believe,” she told him. On Christmas Eve, Benoit set out his presents, including a hand-me-down computer with a bell hanging from it. She included a handwritten letter from Santa and left the computer on with the words “Merry Xmas” blinking on the screen. At a family gathering, years later — long after Benoit had forgotten this gift — Jordan brought it up, saying it was his favorite holiday memory. “To this day, when I’m around, he tells me Christmas happens to those who believe.”
NOVEMBER 2014
PowerUp Electric Paper Airplane Conversion Kit, $16.99 at Turner Toys
Pay attention to presentation
KIDSVT.COM
eter Sloan, co-owner of Turner Toys in Essex Junction, was wowed by the POWERUP ELECTRIC PAPER AIRPLANE CONVERSION KIT he saw at the Toy Fair in New York City earlier this year. The kit, recommended for ages 8 and up, comes with a lightweight power unit that clips to a paper airplane, allowing it to fly up to 30 seconds on a charge. Templates included in the kit help kids build air-worthy paper airplanes. “We love how they take a familiar toy like paper airplanes and make it that much more challenging,” Sloan says. “Tweaks can be made to make the airplane fly in circles, and you can even decorate it.”
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PHOTOS: MATTHEW THORSEN
Rose Knows
A child behavioral expert teaches parents the dos and don’ts of discipline
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Kids VT
November 2014
kidsvt.com
By Ken Picard
T
he five 4-year-old boys in Maris Rose’s
outdoor recreation program sit quietly in a circle on a classroom floor. Each awaits his turn to suggest a morning activity at the All Souls Interfaith Gathering on Meach Cove Farm in Shelburne. As Rose goes around the circle asking, “Peter, what do you want to do today? Ryan, what do you want to do?” the boys soon reach a consensus: They want to climb trees, build a fort and play lions in the grass.
Rose shoulders a backpack with the word “love” stitched into the canvas, then leads them to the door. Before leaving, she hushes them with one finger in
anticipation of walking past other rooms in which massage and yoga instruction are under way. “Now, let’s all be as quiet as butterflies,” she instructs. The boys dutifully follow Rose’s instructions while they exit the multiuse building. Once outside, the boys sprint noisily down a nature trail into the trees. When two of them stray out of sight, Rose mimics a bird call — her signal for the group to reassemble. In an instant, all five boys dash back to her, form a circle and hold hands. Rose smiles and commends their promptness, then suggests they move on to another activity. It’s not magic that enables the 58-year-old educator
to get children to listen and behave. Her decades of experience working with kids of all ages, including extremely troubled teens in court-ordered group homes, taught Rose some simple but effective techniques for modifying children’s behavior. Now she teaches classes based on these methods, ranging from large groups to one-on-one sessions, for parents, teachers and other professional childcare providers. This particular program for pre-kindergarteners, called Maris’ Tree House, meets once a week for four hours. For a time, the boys pretend to be lions hiding in the leaves, awaiting a passing hippo on which to pounce. When they grow tired of that game, they run
down a grassy hill to a stand of pines ideal for climbing. There, the boys pretend to be orangutans, honey badgers, red foxes and, incongruously, lifeguards. Rose guides and encourages, but doesn’t micromanage their imaginative play. She never yells or says, “No!” In fact, when the boys all begin talking at once, rather than raising her own voice, Rose covers her ears in mock pain and cries, “Wait, wait, wait! My ears are full!” The only negative admonition she makes all morning is when she warns them not to throw rocks because “rocks can hurt someone.” This is a tactic she teaches to adults. She believes parents need to understand and adjust their own reactions to their children’s unwanted actions. It reflects her fundamental principle of behavior modification: “That which you give attention to flourishes.” In other words, she explains, when parents shout, get angry and punish their kids for negative behavior, it only reinforces for the child that this behavior will get their parents’ attention. Instead, Rose teaches parents to identify and name the unwanted behavior — whining, throwing tantrums, pulling hair, etc. — then determine what the child is trying to communicate with it. For example, is your daughter whining because she lacks the vocabulary to explain what she wants? Or because she believes you’re paying more attention to her little brother than to her? Next, Rose instructs parents to identify and name the opposite, preferred behavior — in the case of whining, a daughter using her “big-girl voice” — and then reinforce it with “calm, consistent and conscious action.” So if your daughter whines for something, you might say, “How about you come back in two minutes and ask me using your big-girl voice?” Rose recommends setting a timer and asking the child to return when it goes off and then ask properly.
Tricks of the Trade
Rose’s own upbringing wasn’t quite as progressive. She grew up in a large Catholic family in Rochester, N.Y. The oldest of five children, Rose recalls her family’s parenting style as “strict, but in a good way. I felt like
ON HELICOPTER PARENTING: Overprotection does kids no favors later in life. “Some people equate their child’s disappointment and temporary unhappiness with something that’s going to affect them for years on end,” she says. “But it’s really important for children to have age-appropriate disappointment and frustration. Frustration, then practice, then mastery is part of how we grow. What we’re doing when we’re over-parenting or helicoptering or managing things too much is, we’re robbing our children of that ability to get stronger, to build resilience.”
KIDS VT
ON POWER STRUGGLES WITH KIDS: There are as many reasons for power struggles as there are types of parents, Rose says. Some parents fear looking weak, to their children or others, if they cede any ground. Rose suggests not pushing back. “It takes two to have a power struggle,” she says. Sometimes parents need to let kids learn the logical consequences of their behavior. “I’ve had children delivered to me in pajamas because the parents weren’t going to have a power struggle.” At the same time, she cautions, “families are not democracies, but benevolent dictatorships.” Sometimes parents must have their way, shrug their shoulders and say, “You’re disappointed. I understand.”
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NOVEMBER 2014
COPING WITH DISAPPOINTMENT: What do you do if your child wasn’t invited to a friend’s birthday party? You can charge over to the other parent’s house and demand your kid be invited. But a better option, Rose says, is to listen to your child and help her process her feelings: “Oh, your friend is having a party? You must have felt sad when you heard that. Parties are fun to go to. Yes, I understand. Thanks for telling me about it. Is there something I can do to make you feel better?” You’ve affirmed your child’s feelings but didn’t blame someone else, which would only encourage a victim mentality.
From Big Family to Boys Town
KIDSVT.COM
ON TIME-OUTS: Time-outs can be effective, Rose says, as long as they’re not overused or seen as punishment. Because “time out” has so many meanings, she prefers to use a “remembering chair,” where kids take a break from activities. “I can see that you’re not ready to play carefully with your friends,” she might tell a misbehaving child. “You can go over here and look at a book for a few minutes … I’ll call you back in a minute.”
Rose’s method involves using a “four-to-one ratio” rule when correcting unwanted behaviors. In other words, for every correction a parent gives a child, the parent should identify (or make up) four positive acknowledgements that commend the child for doing things right. For example, if your daughter comes into the room and says, “Hi, Dad!” you might answer, “Hey! I heard you use your big-girl voice! Good for you!” (That’s one.)
If she plays all afternoon without whining, you might say, “I haven’t heard any whining this afternoon. I’ve heard only your big-girl voice.” (That’s two.) As Rose explains, this method should always involve brief, consistent and respectful language. It’s most effective, she adds, when parents correct their children’s unwanted behavior early on, before they lose patience, get angry and yell. “By the end of the day, if you haven’t reinforced for them the positive behavior, you haven’t done your job,” Rose adds. “What’s amazing is that kids, in a very short amount of time, get what elicits socially appropriate approval.” A common mistake many parents make, Rose notes, is taking their children’s misbehavior personally. “You often hear parents say, ‘Oh, they know that when they say that, it really bugs me,’” she says. “Or when a child who can’t communicate their feelings says, ‘I hate you! You’re a bad mommy!’” Rather than taking such barbs to heart, Rose advises parents to identify what’s making their child angry or upset by saying, “It sounds like you’re upset. Can you tell me why?” As she points out, many children (and some adults) lack the ability to express their feelings and take responsibility for them. “Teach them to own their problem,” she adds. “That which you own, you can change. If you don’t own your problem, you can’t change it.”
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Rose Knows
continued from p. 23
they would really listen if I had an issue, even if they couldn’t always figure it out.” In her house, all the kids had chores, answered the phone using their first name and had to be excused before leaving the table. Her mother wasn’t the most patient of parents. “She yelled a lot,” Rose recalls. “The joke my sister will tell today is, she’s still grounded.” “But it was an Italian family,” she adds, “with lots of music and singing and music lessons, and laughter and baking at Grandma’s house down the street, and my dad taking us to play baseball and to the local pool … It was so much fun.” After earning a college degree in education, Rose spent much of the late 1970s and early ’80s working with her former husband at the now-famous Boys Town, in Omaha, Neb. Founded in 1917 by Edward Flanagan, a Roman Catholic priest, Boys Town pioneered an innovative approach to raising boys from broken homes and troubled pasts. Rose, her then-husband and their two young sons lived full time in several group homes with nine boys, all of whom came from dysfunctional backgrounds. For some, Boys Town was their last stop before juvenile detention; others had been removed from homes where they’d endured physical abuse, substance abuse and mental-health issues. “The idea,” she explains “was to live with them and create a family situation with a highly trained couple, so they could have around them a functional family.” There, Rose and her partner implemented a very
strict behavior-modification program, which was later adopted at group homes around the country. Whenever Rose or her husband had to do a correction, it involved a strict, nine-step procedure for the parent or teacher to follow, starting with praise, empathy or affection, then a clear description of what the child had done wrong. Using a point system, the boys either earned or lost points depending upon their behavior.
It’s really important for children to have age-appropriate disappointment and frustration.
Frustration, then practice, then mastery is part of how we grow. Maris Rose
This simple approach proved very effective, according to Rose. Because all the boys were involved in every aspect of housekeeping — cooking, cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping — they became invested in their home’s success. And, because the older boys lived with Rose’s own sons, who were 2 and 4 at the time, the older boys learned compassion and empathy by learning to care for them, too. After working in Omaha, Rose and her former husband traveled to other states around the country, setting up more group homes based on the same model,
before finally settling in Vermont in 1988. Initially, Rose took a job as a reading teacher in the Burlington school district. About a year later, the then-director of Annette’s Preschool in Hinesburg asked her if she would teach a parenting class, based on her past experience. Rose devised her own program, which combined some of her formal training with lessons she’d learned at the group homes. About 15 years ago, Rose started teaching preschool, then launched her current outdoor rec program and parenting classes, which she’s run simultaneously ever since. Nancy Elder, director of the Charlotte Children’s Center, has worked with Rose in various capacities over the last five years. Rose has trained Elder’s staff and offered free parenting workshops to the center’s clients. “Maris has done this work for a lot of years, and I have a lot of confidence in her approaches to children,” Elder says. “She and I are in agreement about the way we should always speak to children. We feel that on the one hand, children should always be treated with respect and kindness in your interactions with them. But at the other end, that doesn’t mean being permissive. Children need guidance and boundaries, and they need to know that there is somebody watching out for them.” Now a grandmother — her sons are 35 and 33 — Rose has begun shifting her emphasis to working with parents and sharing the lessons she’s learned. First and foremost, she reminds parents that good parenting is a difficult job. “It’s pretty organic and messy, being a parent and having a family,” she says. “These techniques can help make things easier. But they don’t make it easy.”
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CALENDAR
COURTESY OF SPRUCE PEAK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
7 Friday-9 Sunday
VERMONT DANCE & DRUM FESTIVAL Three 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 free Sunday 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. 13 Thursday-15 Saturday
‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’ The Vergennes Union High School music department presents this tuneful production featuring free-spirited mermaid Ariel, who dreams of a world above the sea. Vergennes Union High School, $10-12. Info, 877-2983, ext. 230. 22 Saturday
Before the GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS settle in for a five-week run at New York City’s New Victory Theater, the elite Chinese performers make a pit stop in Stowe. Clad in spectacular costumes, the acrobats combine awe-inspiring maneuvers — think spinning plates and jumping through hoops — with traditional dance and contemporary music. Hailing from China’s Hebei province, the troupe represents a lineage of acrobatics dating back more than 2,000 years, when it provided entertainment for emperors. Prepare to be royally impressed.
WESTFORD TURKEY TROT Families seeking fresh air choose from a 10K or 3K race through the rural roads of Westford, with hand-painted medals for age-group winners and home-baked treats for sale. A 100-yard Tot Trot is geared toward the littlest athletes. Westford School, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $12 for preregistration by November 21; $15 on race day. Info, 878-5804. 28 Friday-30 Sunday
‘THE NUTCRACKER’
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Young dancers from the Albany Berkshire Ballet visit the Land of Sweets in this holiday classic. All ages. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, $19-41. Info, 863-5966.
KIDS VT
GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS: Friday, November 28, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe. Ages 5 and up. $20-52; family discount available. Info, 760-4634. sprucepeakarts.org
ci
Highlights
KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER 2014
Group Dynam
SPOTLIGHTS & LISTINGS BY ALISON NOVAK
Nov
caleNdar Library & Books
4 TUESDAY
Arts & crafts
creative Tuesdays: Artists engage their imaginations with recycled materials. All ages, but kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Baby & maternity
Burlington Prenatal Yoga: Mothers-to-be build strength, stamina, comfort and a stronger connection to their baby in this all-levels class. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 4-5:30 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642. shelburne Prenatal Yoga: Yoga postures, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques nurture bodies and create a loving connection between moms-to-be and their babies. Women at all stages of pregnancy are welcome. Yoga Roots, Shelburne, 5:45-7:15 p.m. $15. Info, 985-0090.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: Energy-filled kids flip, jump and tumble in a state-of-the-art facility. Ages 6 and under. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 11 a.m.-noon. $8. Info, 655-3300. shelburne open Gym: Tumbling tots burn energy on trampolines, balance beams, rings and more. Gymstar Gymnastics, Shelburne, 12 & 2 p.m. $3-6. Info, 985-8948. Williston open Gym: Petite gymnasts bounce, bend and balance. Ages 9 months-6 years, accompanied by an adult. Green Mountain Gymnastics, Williston, 9:30-11 a.m. $10 per child; $15 per family. Info, 652-2454.
Fairfax Preschool story Time: Kids and their caregivers settle in for themed gatherings around books. Ages 6 and under. Fairfax Community Library, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420. Gaming For Teens & Adults: Players of all skill levels engage in Magic: The Gathering and other amusements. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult or have parental permission to attend. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-7:45 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216. Read to a dog: Pet-loving kiddos share books with registered therapy pooches. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.
music children's sing-Along With Lesley Grant: Parents sip coffee while wee ones break into song with a local musician and educator. Preschool-age kids and younger. The Bees Knees, Morrisville, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 888-7889. Kids music with Raphael: Local favorite Raphael Groton plays tunes to make the little ones dance and giggle. All ages. The Skinny Pancake Burlington, 11:30 a.m.-noon. $3 per family. Info, 540-0188. music With mr. chris: Singer and storyteller Chris Dorman leads kids in music and dance. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.
Go Get WIC Referrals
Healthy Foods
Playgroups
Prenatal Nutrition
Breastfeeding Support
Family Meals
Recipes
Nutrition Counseling
Nature & science
EcHo story Explorers: A seed is sleepy: Plant enthusiasts read about and explore a variety of seeds to find out what makes them so special. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.
5 WEDNESDAY
Arts & crafts
Toddler Time Art class: Parents relax with free coffee while their wee ones cut loose and create with provided art supplies and guidance. Ages 5 and under. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 9 a.m.noon, $8 per visit; $60 for a 10-class punch card. Info, oneartscollective@gmail.com.
Baby & maternity
montpelier Postnatal Yoga: Brand-new mamas and their littles relax, stretch and bond. For moms with babies one year and under. Emerge Yoga, Montpelier, 10-11 a.m. $12. Info, 778-0300.
Food
Kids in the Kitchen: Pumpkin Pancakes: Kids mash locally sourced gourds and crack fresh eggs, then cook up their own flapjacks like pros. All ages. Healthy Living Market and CafĂŠ, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.
Health & Fitness
shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Library & Books
Book discussion for Homeschoolers: In separate groups, kids in grades K through 3 and 4 through 8 participate in activities related to award-winning reads. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956. creative Writing club: Young wordsmiths let their imaginations take off on the page. Ages 9 and up. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313. dorothy canfield Fisher Book discussion: Hiding Out at the Pancake Palace by Nan Marino is the subject of a spirited conversation. Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660. e-origami: Paper, LED lights, copper tape and button batteries combine to make shrimp puppets with light-up eyes. Grades 4-7. Waterbury Public Library, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036. Lego club: Mini-makers participate in surprise challenges with colorful interlocking blocks. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.
music
moving & Grooving With christine: Tots let loose to the rhythms of rock-and-roll and world music. Recommended for ages 2-5, but all are welcome. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Essex open Gym: See November 4.
The Nutrition Program for Women, Infants & Children
WIC Income Eligibility Family of 2: up to $2,392/mo. Family of 4: up to $3,631/mo. Family of 6: up to $4,871/mo. Already on Medicaid/ Dr. Dynasaur? You are income eligible for WIC.
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November 2014
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Preschool music With derek: Kids tap their toes in time to a fun, tune-filled gathering. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660. rockin' ron the friendly Pirate: Small scallywags "ooh" and "aargh!" during swashbuckling songs, movements and guessing games. Ages 7 and under, accompanied by an adult. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.
6 THURSDAY
arts & crafts
Pollywog Preschool art drop-in: Multimedia projects involving homemade play dough, finger paint and paper introduce young kids to artistic expression. Ages 6 months-5 years, accompanied by an adult. BCA Center, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $6. Info, 865-7166.
Baby & maternity
Birth Healing mini-series: Childbirth educator Marianne Perchlik facilitates a conversation about the experience of having a baby with postpartum moms. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953. Birth Healing mini-series: Childbirth educator Marianne Perchlik facilitates a conversation about the experience of having a baby with postpartum moms. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953. Burlington Prenatal yoga: See November 4, 5:45-7:15 p.m.
Lego Thursdays: The library supEssex La Leche League: Moms plies the building blocks, and kids bring their little ones to a bring their imagination and crediscussion of parenting and ativity. All ages. Haston Library, breast-feeding. Pregnant and Franklin, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, planning moms are also welcome. See Dr. First videos 285-6505. First Congregational Church of “first With Kids” at Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free. Info, Library Teen advisory Group: fletcherallen.org/ 383-8544. Adolescents gather to plan library firstwithkids infant massage: New parents programs and munch on pizza. learn the techniques and benefits Grades 7-12. New members welof this ancient tradition in a slowcome! Dorothy Alling Memorial paced, discussion-filled class. Tea provided. Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Babies ages four weeks to crawling with one or both parents or a caregiver. Yoga Roots, Shelmusic burne, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15. Info, 985-0090. music for Preschoolers: Lively tunes with Peter Alsen or Derek Burkins strike the right Health & fitness note among the wee crowd. Ages 5 and under Essex open Gym: See November 4. with a caregiver. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free; limited to one shelburne open Gym: See November 4. session per week per family. Info, 878-4918. yoga with danielle: Curious toddlers and prespanish musical Kids: Niños celebrate Latin schoolers learn movement techniques through American culture through songs and games en social interaction, repetition and play. Buttered español. Ages 1-5 with a caregiver. Fletcher Free Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1800. 917-1776.
Library & Books
card making: Crafter Karen McNall provides inspiration and materials for kids to make their own paper greetings. Fairfax Community Library, 5:30-7:45 p.m. $2 per card made. Info, 849-2420. Hinesburg Lego club: Interlocking blocks, board games, snacks and books entertain kids ages 6 and up. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.
Theater
‘Peter Pan’: Edmunds Middle School Drama and Very Merry Theatre present an original musical adaptation of this timeless, high-flying tale. Edmunds Middle School, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 355-1461.
Classes
List your class or camp here for only $20 per month! submit the listing by November 15th at kidsvt.com or to classes@kidsvt.com.
Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Kids Program is designed to promote self-esteem, discipline, “bully-proofing,” cooperation with peers and overall health and wellbeing. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu promotes mental toughness and perseverance and builds and instills courage and self-confidence. Your son or daughter will interact with other kids and have a chance to make new friends! Ages 4-7: Weekly on Wednesdays, 4:15 p.m. & Saturdays, 8:15 a.m.; Ages 8-14: Weekly on Wednesdays, 5 p.m. & Saturdays, 9 a.m. First class is free! Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 55 Leroy Rd., Williston. Info: julio@bjjusa. com, 660-4072, vermontbjj.com. The Birth That’s Right For You: Doctors, midwives and doulas, oh my! Lisa Gould Rubin’s unique approach helps you discover how to make decisions that are just right for you. She’ll help you gather your inner knowing of who you are and show you how to apply it to the process of giving birth so your experience of having a baby custom fits you and what you need every step of the way. One day: December 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. or Two Day: November 15-16, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Yoga Roots, 6221 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne. Info: 985-0090, yogarootsvt.com.
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Stay active at Petra Cliffs this winter!
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CALENDAR
Wimpy! Wimpy! Wimpy!
BURLINGTON, VT
School Vacation Camps Birthday Parties Friday Night Kids Club Mini Monkeys: ages 5-8 Youth Climbing Team: ages 8-16
Find out more at petracliffs.com or 657- 3872
Welcoming new kids!
Climb on!
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COURTESY OF PHOENIX BOOKS
Shop online or at our warehouse 11 Pearl Street, Essex Junction 871–5513 • turnertoys.com
KIDS VT
NOVEMBER 2014
KIDSVT.COM
THE DIARY OF A WIMPY KID may not sound like a compelling read. But it is, thanks to author Jeff Kinney and his middle-school weakling protagonist, Greg Heffley. Since its 2007 debut, Kinney’s children’s book series has sold more than 75 million copies. In celebration of his ninth book, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul, the author-cartoonist brings his Long Haul Road Trip experience to Vermont. Attendees can expect games, activities, photo opps and an autograph session with Kinney. An added bonus? After the event, budding bookworms can use their tickets to access a special website featuring personalized Wimpy Kid scrapbooks.
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LONG HAUL ROAD TRIP EXPERIENCE: Tuesday, November 18, at 6 p.m. at Browns River Middle School in Jericho. $15-17 includes book and up to 2 tickets; preregister. Info, 872-7111. phoenixbooks.biz k4t-Heartworks0814-2.indd 1
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Nature & science
7 FRIDAY
arts & crafts
Family Wheel drop-in: Parents and kids make bowls, cups and sculptures from clay. All ages. BCA Print & Clay Studio, Burlington, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $6 includes one fired and glazed piece per participant; additional pieces are $5 each. Info, 865-7166.
Fairs & Festivals
robins Nest Nature Playgroup: Little explores ages 5 and under and their caregivers C See Dr. First videos discover the sights, sounds and M “First With Kids” at sensations of the forests and fletcherallen.org/ fields while learning how the Y firstwithkids natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and CM play. Dress in water- and mud- MY proof clothing. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free; donations CY welcome. Info, 229-6206.
Vermont dance & drum Festival: Three 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 free Sunday class just for kids and presentations by Jeh Kulu’s youngest members. Preregister to participate in classes. Burlington City Hall, 5:30-8:45 p.m. Free to watch. Info, 859-1802.
Games
Family Bingo Night: Players of all ages tests their luck during a fun-filled game night. F. H. Tuttle Middle School, South Burlington, 6:308:30 p.m. $1 per card. Info, 846-4108. magic: The Gathering: Planeswalkers seek knowledge and glory in this trading-card game. New players welcome. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Library & Books
Early Bird math: Young children and their caregivers put two and two together using interactive books, songs and games to explore arithmetic concepts. Ages 3-6. Richmond Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036. songs & stories With matthew: Musician Matthew Witten helps kids start the day with tunes and tales of adventure. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
music Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: Toe-tapping good tunes captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 660-9346. music With derek: An immature audience shakes out its sillies with tune-filled activities. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.
Video Series Thurs., Nov. 13 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
FREE Burton Riglet Outdoor Park Sat., Nov. 15, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
CMY
Theater
‘Peter Pan’: See November 6, 7 p.m.
K
Visit echovermont.org for more information. ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center
8 SATURDAY
arts & crafts
@ECHOvt
itsy Bitsy Fashion design: Little couturiers learn hand-sewing techniques to create fashionable outfits and accessories for their favorite dolls. Ages 6-8. BCA Center, Burlington, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166. Kids craft: cone Tree ornament: Paint, glitter, pom poms and foam come together to create a festive decoration. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646. saturday Kids drop-in craft class: Hand builders create clay projects with seasonal themes, including flower vases, fall leaves, animal creatures and coil pots. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $10 per child. Info, 985-3648.
BURLINGTON, VERMONT
ECHOVERMONT.ORG
877.324.6386
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A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE, WORK & PLAY
community
doll & me Tea Party: A fancy luncheon with an "Enchanted Seas" theme, accessory making and keepsake portraits makes for a lovely outing for dressed-up girls and their dolls. Ages 3-12. Church of the Rock, St. Albans, 11:30 a.m. & 3 p.m. $20; preregister. Info, 393-1964.
Education
indigenous Peoples movie: Vermont ethnographer, Ned Castle, award-winning Vermont filmmaker, Matt Day and ECHO screen four jointly created films focused on Native American topics including basket making, drumming, language and fellowship. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free with $10.50-13.50 admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
Fairs & Festivals
Vermont dance & drum Festival: See November 7, 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m.
EVENTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
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Food
Health & Fitness
shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 9 & 10:10 a.m.
OLD FASHIONED VISITS WITH SANTA
HORSE & WAGON RIDES HOT COCOA HUT FREE GIFT WRAPPING I SPY CONTEST HOLIDAY CHARACTER BREAKFAST CHARACTER CUTOUTS EVENING SHOPPING IN MIDDLEBURY AT STAG & DOE NIGHT for more information and a full listing of other community winter and holiday events please visit:
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Kids VT
31
submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
‘TIS THE SEASON FOR LOCAL CELEBRATION! KidsVT.com November 2014
operation military Kids cooking class: Military children ages 8-13 learn about handling food safely, knife skills and creativity in the kitchen while whipping up pizza with homemade dough. Northside Baptist Church, Franklin, 1-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 656-0346.
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'Wonder' Handshake Art opening: Castings of handshakes inspired by R.J. Palacio's bestselling book, created by Franklin students, are on display for public viewing. Haston Library, Franklin, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.
music Perlman music Program celebration concert: As a culmination of its annual fall residency in Stowe, the Perlman Music Program alumni ensembles perform chamber music masterworks, and Maestro Itzhak Perlman conducts the PMP String Orchestra. Recommended for ages 8 and up and practicing violin students. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7:30 p.m. $2045. Info, 760-4634.
Nature & science
Bird-monitoring Walk: Beginning birders embrace ornithology on an identification walk. Appropriate for older children. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Donations appreciated. Info, 434-3068. EcHo story Explorers: A seed is sleepy: See November 4. moonlit Wagon rides: Giddyup, let's go! Visitors tour the farm under the night sky, then head back to the Education Center for light snacks and activities. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 5:15, 6, 6:45 & 7:30 p.m. $7-10; free for children under 3. Info, 985-8686. my sky: Astronomy enthusiasts learn about celestial objects in this program geared toward kids ages 3-8. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 12:30 p.m. $2; $5 per family. Info, 748-2372. Parachutes: Curious kids make their own 'chutes to test air resistance. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Who sank the Boat?: Newbie boatbuilders craft a vessel, then see how much weight it can hold before sinking. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Summer museum admission, $13-16; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.
Theater
saturday drama club: Thespians help Very Merry Theatre produce a show in just three hours. Ages 5-12. 333 Stage Performing Arts Studio, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $15 or pay what you can. Info, 863-6607.
9 SUNDAY
Baby & maternity
Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See November 4, 10:05-11:30 a.m.
dance
Kids African dance class: Master artist Sidiki Sylla shows off his moves as part of Jeh Kulu's Dance and Drum Festival. Ages 4-17. Burlington City Hall Auditorium, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 859-1802.
Nature & science
Williston open Gym: See November 4. Fingerprints: Kids get up close and personal with their prints, exLibrary & Books ploring what makes them unique. See Dr. First videos Essex drop-in story Time: All ages. Montshire Museum of “First With Kids” at Sensational stories thrill emerScience, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular fletcherallen.org/ gent readers ages 5 and under. museum admission, $11-14; free firstwithkids Essex Free Library, Essex Juncfor members and children under tion, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 2. Info, 649-2200. 879-0313. mirror, mirror: Little ones use Norwich Bedtime story Time: Pajama-clad looking glasses to investigate reflection and kids listen to best buddy stories like Frog and symmetry. All ages. Montshire Museum of Toad and George and Martha with their real-life Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum adpals. All ages welcome. Norwich Public Library, mission, $11-14; free for children under 2. Info, 7-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1184. 649-2200. my sky: See November 8.
music
Education
Arts & crafts
Fairs & Festivals
Baby & maternity
indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.
Vermont dance & drum Festival: See November 7, 9:30 a.m.-6:15 p.m.
Food
First Foods: Cristi Nunziata, City Market's Outreach and Education Coordinator and mom to a 15-month-old, shares strategies, tips and recipes for meeting the nutritional needs of little ones ages 6-18 months. Babies welcome. City Market, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9731.
Health & Fitness
Essex sunday open Gym: Little gymnasts stretch, bounce and jump in an open play space. The under 7 crowd is welcome from 1-2:30 while the 7-12-year-olds come from 2:30-4 followed by ages 13 and up from 4-5:30. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 1-5:30 p.m. $8. Info, 655-3300. World run day: Fleet-footed kids hoof it around Burlington in a one-mile fun run, followed by a 5K at 9:30 a.m. Coffee, bagels and a raffle follow the race. Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. Ski Rack, Burlington, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-8412.
‘Peter Pan’: See November 6, 7 p.m.
Toddler Time Art class: See November 5.
montpelier Prenatal Yoga: Pregnant mamas focus on movements that will ready their bodies for the next phase of life. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. $15. Info, 778-0300. Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: Moms-to-be learn different breathing techniques and positions in preparation for birth. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 6-7:15 p.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.
Games
After-school Games: Gamers bring their own Magic, Pokémon or Yu-Gi-Oh! cards, or borrow a deck from the library. Grades 3 and up. Snacks provided. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. Little Yogis: Music, games and playful poses encourage the bitty set to learn and have fun. Ages 18 months-3 years with a caregiver. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 9-10 a.m. $14. Info, 870-0361. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m. Tots Yoga: Preschool posers develop their practice away from caregivers with tunes, storytelling and creative movement. Ages 3-5. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.
KidsVT.com
submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
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November 2014 Kids VT
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Burlington La Leche League: New moms bring their questions to a breast-feeding support group. Babies and older children welcome. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Free. Info, 879-3000. Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See November 4. shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See November 4.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Library & Books
Fairfax Preschool story Time: See November 4. Gaming For Teens & Adults: See November 4. read to a dog: See November 4.
music
children's sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See November 4. Kids music with raphael: See November 4. music With mr. chris: See November 4.
12 WEdNEsdAY, p.35
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11 TUESDAY
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music for Preschoolers: See November 6, 11 a.m. musical story Time with Lesley Grant: Tuneful kids sing along with a local musician and educator. Ages 18 months to 4 years. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
10 MONDAY
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Playgroups
Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers, and caregivers connect with other local parents and peers. The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts, or music. Contact the playgroup organizer or visit kidsvt.com for site-specific details.
MONDAY Barre Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, 10 a.m.-noon, $10 per child; $5 for additional siblings. Info, 223-0517. Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers & Toddlers: St. Joseph School, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 862-2121. Burlington Playgroup: Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 578-6471. Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 764-5820. Fusion 802 Playgroup: Fusion 802, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. Jericho Playgroup: Jericho Community Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415. Richford Playgroup: Richford Elementary, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797. Swanton Playgroup: Swanton Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Waldorf Playgroup: Orchard Valley Waldorf School Main Campus, 1-2:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 456-7400. Williston Playgroup: Alice in Noodleland: Buttered Noodles, 10-11 a.m. Free. Does not meet June 23. Info, 764-1810. Winooski Family Center Playgroup: O’Brien Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.
Burlington Playgroup: See Monday. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 578-6471. Colchester Playgroup: Colchester Village Meeting House, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5643. Essex Building Bright Futures Baby Playgroup: Move You Fitness Studio, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrop Memorial Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 827-3945. Hinesburg Playgroup: Hinesburg Town Hall, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-4667. 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. South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24. St. Albans Building Better Families Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, St. Albans, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Williston Babytime Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, first Wednesday of every month, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Williston Evening Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.
TUESDAY
THURSDAY
Bradford Playgroup: Grace United Methodist Church, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24. Brookfield Playgroup: First Congregational Church of Brookfield, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24. Burlington Dad’s Night: VNA Family Room, 3-7 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Playgroup: Maple Street Recreation Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. Johnson Baby Chat: Church of the Nazarene, fourth Tuesday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.
Alburgh Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, Alburgh, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Brandon Stories & Crafts: Brandon Free Public Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 247-8230. Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Playgroup: See Tuesday. 9:30-11 a.m. Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Spanish Playgroup: Maple Street Recreation Center, first Thursday of every month, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. Hinesburg Infant Playgroup: CarpenterCarse Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 482-4667. Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Morrisville Baby Chat: First Congregational Church of Morrisville, first Thursday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.
WEDNESDAY Barre Open Gym: See Monday. Sunrise Gymnastics, 10 a.m.-noon, $10 per child; $5 for additional siblings. Info, 223-0517.
Randolph Playgroup: White River Craft Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24. West Fairlee Playgroup: Westshire Elementary Playgroup, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24. Winooski Family Center Playgroup: See Monday. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. FRIDAY Barre Open Gym: See Monday, 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Burlington Playgroup: See Monday. Colchester Playgroup: See Wednesday. Essex Center Motor-Based Playgroup: Memorial Hall, Nov. 21, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 10:30 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 899-4415. Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 347-1780. Randolph Toddler Time: Kimball Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073. Swanton Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3033. Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415. Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. Worcester Playgroup: Doty Memorial School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-1312. SATURDAY Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Preschool Open Gym: Maple Street Recreation Center, Every other Saturday, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1613.
Franklin Tumble Time & Playgroup: Franklin Central School, Nov. 8, 9-11:15 a.m. Free. Meets December 7 and January 11. Info, 370-0838. Williston Spanish Music & Movement Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Nov. 22, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555. SUNDAY Barre Older Kid Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, 5-7 p.m. $10 for one child; $5 for additional siblings. Info, 223-0517.
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KIDS VT
FRIDAY,DEC. 5 SATURDAY, DEC. 6 SUNDAY, DEC. 7
KIDSVT.COM NOVEMBER 2014
22nd ANNUAL
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SANTA
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All proceeds go to benefit Joseph’s House Emergency Outreach Center
Saturday, December 6th 8:30am, 10:30am Breakfast $10/person (Children 1 & under are free) St. John Vianny Community Center, South Burlington Register online at www.josephshousevt.org or call 951-4290 K8h-JosephsHouse1114.indd 1
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November 2014
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Battling ’Bots Get ready to rumble! Kid-programmed robots duke it out during firsT lego league, a national robotics competition for tinkerers ages 9 through 14. Twenty-four vermont teams set their leGo mindstorms creations loose on a playing surface, racking up points for successfully completed tasks. Switching gears, participants must research a real-world problem, then present an innovative solution. during lulls in the high-tech action, spectators can explore Norwich University’s technology-related venues, including labs for 3d printing and medical simulation. an awards ceremony caps off the day. firsT lego league: Sunday, November 16, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Plumley Armory, Norwich University in Northfield. All ages. Free. Info, 485-2886. firstlegoleague.org
11 TuEsdAY (CoNtiNued)
13 THURSDAY
Nature & science
Arts & crafts
Pollywog Preschool Art dropEcHo story Explorers: Round in: See November 6. See dr. First videos Robin: Junior scientists learn “First With Kids” at all about what migration is like fletcherallen.org/ for our songbird friends. All ages. Baby & maternity firstwithkids ECHO Lake Aquarium and SciBirth Healing mini-series: See ence Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 November 6. a.m. Regular museum admission; Birth Healing mini-series: See $10.50-13.50; free for members and children November 6. under 3. Info, 877-324-6386. Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See November 4, 5:45-7:15 p.m. 12 WEDNESDAY infant massage: See November 6.
Arts & crafts
Toddler Time Art class: See November 5.
Baby & maternity
montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See November 5.
Education
History for Homeschoolers: The hunting traditions of Abenaki, fur traders and early settlers is this month's topic of discussion. Ages 6-12. Vermont History Museum, Montpelier, 1-3 p.m. $4-5; free for parents and nonparticipating children; preregister. Info, 828-1314.
Games
Family Game Night: Players sit down for friendly competitions of Candy Land, checkers and Monopoly. Bring your own board or borrow from the library. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. Keeping Kids Healthy during the Winter months: Naturopathic doctor Jessica Stadtmauer talks with parents about the foods and herbs that keep children well, as well as homeopathic and home remedies. City Market, Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9731. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Library & Books
creative Writing club: See November 5. Green mountain Book Award Book discussion: Eager readers hear about some of this year's nominees, and plug their favorites. Grades 9 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. Read with a Pediatrician: Pediatric interns from Fletcher Allen share stories and collect book donations for the Reach Out and Read program, which promotes early literacy in pediatric exam rooms. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-7:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.
Preschool music With derek: See November 5. Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See November 5. song circle: community sing-Along: Songbirds raise their voices while Rich and Laura Atkinson accompany on a variety of instruments. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:45 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.
HERE!
Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1302 Main Street, St. Johnsbury, VT fairbanksmuseum.org
community
stuttering support Group: School-age children with stutters and their families are invited to join these community-building gatherings. Meets at Pomeroy Hall. University of Vermont, Burlington, 4:15-5:15 p.m. Free. Info, 656-0250.
Education
History for Homeschoolers: See November 12.
The Fairbanks Museum is your destination for family fun.
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Food
Kids in the Kitchen: Knife skills: It's never too soon to learn how to properly hold and use a knife. Dexterous kids use their new prowess to cut their way through an array of organic veggies and create a yummy turkey chili. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.
Games
st. Albans Legos: Block lovers keep busy with the library's giant collection. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. Yoga with danielle: See November 6.
Library & Books
An Evening of 'Wonder': A thought-provoking, multimedia discussion of R.J. Palacio's awardwinning book focuses on how we can choose kindness and inclusion in our communities. Refreshments provided. Crossett Brook Middle School, Waterbury, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Hinesburg Lego club: See November 6. Lego Thursdays: See November 6. 'star Wars' club: Costumed young fans channel the Force as they chat about their favorite characters. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
music
music for Preschoolers: See November 6. spanish musical Kids: See November 6.
KidsVT.com November 2014
music
ADVENTURES START
Nature & science
Let's Talk Turkeys: What do turkeys eat for Thanksgiving? Preschoolers and their parents hit the trail to learn more about these wild birds. Ages 3-5 with adult. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.
Kids VT
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submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
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14 FRIDAY
Theater
Arts & crafts
'The Little mermaid': The Vergennes Union High School music department presents this tuneful production featuring free-spirited mermaid Ariel, who dreams of a world above the sea. Vergennes Union High School, 7 p.m. $1012. Info, 877-2983, ext. 230.
Family Wheel drop-in: See November 7.
Education
Homeschool Project day: Out-of-classroom learners share their current projects with an audience of parents and siblings. Grades K through
12. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
Games
dungeons & dragons: Players exercise their problem-solving skills in imaginary battles and adventures. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m. Thinksafe for Kids: Kids learn about "stranger danger" and how to keep safe in a clear, straightforward way. Ages 4-13. Martial Arts Vacation Camps, Milton, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4922. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
courtesy of orchard valley waldorf school
Library & Books
Cold Comfort looking for a magical, childcentered celebration? the seasonal soirée known as the FALL iNTo WiNTER FAiR entertains kiddos of all ages on the sprawling campus of the orchard valley waldorf school. teachers wow the crowd with puppet shows, while the snow Queen’s sparkly white cave is the perfect venue for songs and stories. the creative fun continues with wet felting, paperstar making, clay painting and musical chairs, complete with live tunes from vermont strings. local crafts and food — look for chili and cornbread — round out the family-friendly fête.
Early Bird math: See November 7. Family movie Night: 'Labyrinth': 15-year-old Sarah must navigate a complex maze in order to rescue her baby brother, Toby, in this film from the '80's . All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. Toddler Yoga and stories: Little ones perform simple poses and listen to a read-aloud tale. Ages 1-3. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.
music Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See November 7. music With derek: See November 7. music With Robert: Families sing along with a local legend. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Nature & science montshire Unleashed: An Evening for Adults: The museum opens its doors after hours so grown-ups can let their inner curiosity run wild. Beer and wine available for purchase. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6-9 p.m. $14 museum admission; free for members. Info, 649-2200. Robins Nest Nature Playgroup: See November 7.
Theater
'The Little mermaid': See November 13.
15 SATURDAY
KidsVT.com
FALL iNTo WiNTER FAiR: Saturday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Orchard Valley Waldorf School in East Montpelier. All ages. Free; cost of food and activities. Info, 456-7400. ovws.org
Arts & crafts
Franken-critters: Stuffed animals come alive when young makers sew them into something new. Ages 8-12. BCA Center, Burlington, 1:303:30 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166.
Knowing you have 36 days left...
36
Kids VT
november 2014
and waiting until the last minute.
Early Childhood Programs designed specifically for the developmental needs of children.
The Stern Center for Language and Learning provides homework support for 7-12 graders in all academic areas. In addition to providing support, we introduce time management to help stay on task and provide study strategies. Inquire about scholarships.
802-878-2332 | www.sterncenter.org Because All Great Minds Don’t Think Alike
Monday - Friday 7:00 am to 5:30 pm for children ages 6 weeks - Pre-K
Join us for our FALL OPEN HOUSE on Nov. 13, 6 p.m. Call to RSvP Pre-K-6 grade • Williston • 863-4839
Full-time and part-time openings Richmond 434-3891
Berlin 229-2869
VERMONT’S PREMIER
Free Wheelin': Clay enthusiasts Nature & science learn their way around the potBatteries & motors: Light ter's wheel. Price includes one bulbs flicker — both literally and fired and glazed piece per particimetaphorically — as kids make pant. Ages 6-12. BCA Print & Clay See Dr. First videos and measure electricity. All ages. Studio, Burlington, 1:30-3:30 p.m. “First With Kids” at Montshire Museum of Science, $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166. fletcherallen.org/ Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular muKids craft: Felt mug ornament: firstwithkids seum admission, $11-14; free for Coffee drinker in your life? Little members and children under 2. crafters make a cozy and cute Info, 649-2200. adornment to add to their tree. EcHo story Explorers: Round Robin: See Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South BurlingNovember 11. ton, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646. Farm craft: Past & Present: Families spin saturday Kids drop-in craft class: See Nowool, dip candles and make butter while comvember 8. paring life on the farm in the 19th century and today. Ages 5 and up. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.Education noon. $10-12 per adult-child pair; $5-6 for each indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8. additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686. Kitchen chemistry: Mad scientists combine Fairs & Festivals common household products, which yield unexpectedly entertaining results. All ages. Fall into Winter Fair: Live music, outdoor Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. games, puppet shows, a book sale and a visit Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for from Father Winter and Jack Frost are highmembers and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. lights of this Waldorf-sponsored event that celebrates the change of seasons. All ages. Ormy sky: See November 8. chard Valley Waldorf School, East Montpelier, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 456-7400. Theater
Food
canned Goods sale: The Sisters of Mercy sell an assortment of pickles, jellies, relishes, jams and more made from home-grown fruits ad veggies. Mater Christi School, Burlington, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 658-5494.
Health & Fitness
Burlington outdoor Riglet Park: The south side of the aquarium is converted to a snowy obstacle course where kids ages 3-8 navigate challenges with the help of Smuggs and Burton staffers. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; parking rates apply. Info, 877-324-6386. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. 9 & 10:10 a.m.
Library & Books
3 years old to 8th Grade We are proud of our Faith Filled Environment & Academic Excellence
Art Music PE French Technology Licensed YMCA After-School Program Athletic & Enrichment Opportunities 136 Locust Street Burlington, VT 862-6696 www.cksvt.org admissions@cksvt.org facebook.com/cksvt
Dance Apparel & Footwear Don’t forget the dancers in your life. We’ve got everything a dancer needs or wants this holiday season! ~ Start a LINES FOR THE BODY wishlist ... gift certificates available OWNED & OPERATED BY DEDICATED PROFESSIONAL DANCERS
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16 SUNDAY
Tuesday, November 18th at 8:30 AM
Baby & maternity
Contact us at (802) 862-6696 or osteel@ cksvt.org for additional information or to schedule a tour. Come see how CKS offers a traditional, contemporary and visionary Catholic education for our students.
2035 Essex Rd. (Rt 2A North) Williston, VT 05495
OPEN HOUSE
Burlington Prenatal yoga: See November 4. 10:05-11:30 a.m.
Education
indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.
Kale for Kids: Health-conscious child-adult pairs learn how to make palate-pleasing smoothies, chips, popcorn and pesto with nutrient-rich, leafy greens. City Market, Burlington, 9-10 a.m. $5-10 per child; accompanying adults are free; preregister for each child attending. Info, 861-9731.
802.878.8988
We know you’ve got your hands full.
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Food
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Health & Fitness
Essex sunday open Gym: See November 9.
Nature & science
creeping colors: Small scientists watch capillary action as water rises up their paper strips and separates out marker dyes. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. FiRsT LEGo League Robotics competition: Teams of tech-savvy kids ages 9-14 program an autonomous robot to score points on a themed playing field and create innovative solutions to problems during this national competition. (See spotlight page 34.) Norwich University, Northfield, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free to watch. Info, 485-2886. (See spotlight, page 34.) Leafcutter ants: Nature fans examine the secret lives of "insect fungus farmers" during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. my sky: See November 8.
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Kids VT
submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
KidsVT.com November 2014
dorothy canfield Fisher Book club: Bookworms in grades 4-7 gab about Better Nate Than Ever/i> by Tim Federle. Pizza and refreshments provided. Waterbury Public Library, noon. Free. Info, 244-7036. international Games day: Kids try out a variety of tabletop amusements from around the world during this four-hour marathon session. Snacks provided. Fairfax Community Library, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420. international Games day: Kids try out a variety of tabletop amusements from around the world during this four-hour marathon session. Snacks provided. Fairfax Community Library, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420. international Games day: Kids try out a variety of tabletop amusements from around the world during this four-hour marathon session. Snacks provided. Fairfax Community Library, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420. Therapy dogs of Vermont: Canine enthusiasts visit with a friendly pooch from Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Ages 3 and up. Milton Public Library, third Saturday of every month, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
'The Little mermaid': See November 13. 3 p.m. saturday drama club: See November 8.
DANCE APPAREL & FOOTWEAR RETAILER
Nov CaleNdar
Ongoing Exhibits EcHo LaKE aQuaRium and sciEncE cEnTER Info, 864-1848 Burton indoors Riglet Park: Young shredders ages 3-8 explore an interactive display of snowboarding, including balance boards, crafts, a mini terrain park and puzzles. Weekdays from 2:30-5 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.. Through November 16. ‘coffee: The World in your cup’: Visitors to this traveling exhibit learn how coffee — one of the world’s most widely traded commodities — affects cultures economies and environments around the world. The beverage’s origins, methods of production and producers are also explored. Through January 4. monTsHiRE musEum oF sciEncE Info, 649-2200 ‘only owls’: Forty two-dimensional artworks from the Woodson Art Museum’s collection provide insight into the fascinating world of these wise old birds. Through December 7. WondERFEET Kids’ musEum Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info, 282-2678 Wonderfeet Kids’ museum: This children’s museum features interactive exhibits that allow kids to explore, role play and create.
16 sunday (CoNtiNued)
17 MONDAY
arts & crafts
Knitting for Kids: Novices learn how to knit a hat on the library's looms. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6955. Toddler Time art class: See November 5.
Baby & maternity
montpelier Prenatal yoga: See November 10. Vergennes Prenatal yoga: See November 10.
Games
Lego club: Builders fashion architecturally sound constructions. Ages 7-12. Milton Public Library, 3:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. Little yogis: See November 10. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m. Tots yoga: See November 10. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Library & Books
Babies & Toddlers Rock: Little musicians ages 24 months and under sing songs and engage in early literacy activities. Rutland Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860. Essex drop-in story Time: See November 10. Pajama story Time: Bedtime yoga: Jammieclad kiddos bring their favorite stuffed animals for tales and simple poses with yogi Danielle Brown. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.
music
music for Preschoolers: See November 6, 11 a.m.
nature & science Books & Beyond: science for Preschoolers: Children’s literature and hands-on activities combine for fun science learning and exploration. Ages 3-5 with a parent or caregiver. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:1511 & 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200.
the ninth title in his Wimpy Kid series, The Long Haul. Browns River Middle School, Jericho, 6 p.m. $15-17 for ticket packages (includes book and 1-2 tickets); purchase in advance by calling Phoenix Books Essex. Info, 872-7111. (See spotlight, page 30.) Fairfax Preschool story Time: See November 4. Gaming For Teens & adults: See November 4. Read to a dog: See November 4.
18 TUESDAY
music
arts & crafts
crafternoon: Art-minded kids get the weekend off to a creative start building with craft sticks. Grades 4 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. creative Tuesdays: See November 4. Explore your senses: Little art lovers learn about Andy Warhol, tour the museum's Warhol exhibition and make pop art hand print creations Ages 3-5. Plattsburgh State Art Museum, 10-11:30 a.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 518-564-2498.
Baby & maternity
Burlington Prenatal yoga: See November 4. shelburne Prenatal yoga: See November 4.
Education
Homeschool dcF Book discussion: Out-ofclassroom learners gather to chat about Better Nate Than Ever by Tim Federle. Grades K-12. Milton Public Library, 1-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Library & Books
'diary of a Wimpy Kid' Book signing: Bestselling author Jeff Kinney stops off in Jericho during his one-of-a-kind road trip to promote
children's sing-along With Lesley Grant: See November 4. Kids music with Raphael: See November 4. music With mr. chris: See November 4.
nature & science
EcHo story Explorers: not a stick: 'Tis the season to explore the many ways to play creatively with tree appendages. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.
19 WEDNESDAY
arts & crafts
Toddler Time art class: See November 5.
Baby & maternity
montpelier Postnatal yoga: See November 5.
Education
Geographic information systems day: Youth ages 5-11 learn about geography and maps, while noshing on globe cupcakes. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
submit your december/January events for print by november 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
Purchase a year-round Dual/Family Membership to the Museum for your loved ones this Holiday Season. ShelburneMuseum.org/Support-the-museum (802)985-3346 x 3349
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Kids VT
November 2014
KidsVT.com
GIFT OF SHELBURNE GIVE THE MUSEUM
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Library & Books
code for Girls: Technologyminded fourth through sixth grade females learn how to make their own interactive stories using Scratch, Hopscotch and Arduino. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036. creative Writing club: See November 5.
Health & Fitness See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids
movies
marshfield Family-Themed movies: A wholesome flick entertains viewers of all ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, third Wednesday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.
music
moving & Grooving With christine: See November 5. music makers: Little ones ages 18 months to 6 years and their grown-ups sing joyful songs as a tool for learning. Richmond Free Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036. Preschool music With derek: See November 5. Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See November 5.
20 THURSDAY
Arts & crafts
Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See November 6.
Baby & maternity
Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See November 4, 5:45-7:15 p.m. infant massage: See November 6. montpelier La Leche League: Breastfeeding moms make new friends as they discuss the joys and challenges of nursing. Snacks provided. Lending library available. Babies and toddlers welcome. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 9:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-1254.
Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. Yoga with danielle: See November 6.
Library & Books
Hinesburg Lego club: See November 6. Lego Thursdays: See November 6. Numbers are magical!: Elementary schoolaged children learn tricks and memory aids to help build math skills. Fairfax Community Library, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420. Pajama story Time: Jammie-clad young'uns hunker down for a few stories before bedtime. Crafts and snacks provided. Ages 2-6 with an adult. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.
movies middle school Books-to-Film discussion: Bookworms read Flipped by Wendelin Van Sraanen in advance, then watch the movie version over snacks. Milton Public Library, 3:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.
music
music for Preschoolers: See November 6. spanish musical Kids: See November 6.
Theater
'shrek the musical': Burlington High School's drama department presents a slapstick show for the whole family featuring ogres and 18 dancing rats. Burlington High School, 7-9 p.m. $6-12. Info, 727-3788.
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. Family Yoga: Flexible families bring calm to their minds while learning new poses, breathing techniques and games. Barlow Street Community Center, St. Albans, 6-6:45 p.m. $5 per child; free for adults; preregister. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Library & Books
A dangerous Night of Writing: Daring young scribes put their pens to the test during this writea-thon, where prizes are doled out at the end of the night. All ages welcome. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111. Early Bird math: See November 7. songs & stories With matthew: See November 7. Teen Advisory Board: Young adults think up original characters, then design them with marshmallows during this monthly gathering. Grades 9-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
movies
Teen movie Night: 'million dollar Arm': A sports agent stages an unconventional recruitment strategy to get talented Indian cricket players to play major league baseball in this PG-rated flick. Free popcorn and beverage. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
music Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See November 7. music With derek: See November 7. music With Robert: See November 14.
Nature & science
21 FRIDAY
Arts & crafts
Family Wheel drop-in: See November 7.
celebrate discovery!: A celebration of the launch of the David Goudy Discovery Fund — a capital campaign for new and enhanced exhibits — includes special evening activities and book signings by Vermont authors. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 5-8 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.
Friday Nights for Teen Tinkerers: Would-be Ben Franklins create, design or build something cool. Grades 6-9. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6:30-8 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; preregistration encouraged. Info, 649-2200. Robins Nest Nature Playgroup: See November 7.
22 SATURDAY
Arts & crafts
Kids craft: santa ornament: Ho, ho, ho!! Kids make a hanging jolly guy out of foam pieces. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646. River of Light Lantern making: Families craft magical willow-and-tissue-paper lights in preparation for Waterbury's River of Light Community Lantern Procession on December 6. Bring a bag lunch and pruning shears if possible. Ages 4 and up. Ages 4-8 must be accompanied by an adult. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 253-8358. saturday Kids drop-in craft class: See November 8.
Education
indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.
Health & Fitness
shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 9 & 10:10 a.m. Westford Turkey Trot: Families seeking fresh air choose from a 10K or 3K race through the rural roads of Westford, with hand-painted medals for age-group winners and home-baked treats for sale. A 100 yard Tot Trot is geared toward the littlest athletes. Westford School, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $12 for preregistration by November 21; $15 on race day. Info, 878-5804.
Library & Books
American Girl Tea Party: Little ladies sit down for an afternoon cuppa with treats, games and snacks. Ages 8-12 accompanied by an adult. Milton Public Library, 2-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644. 22 sATuRdAY, p.40
Jamie Two Coats Toyshop KidsVT.com November 2014
Located in the ❤ of Shelburne Village Monday-Saturday 10-6 Sunday 11-5 802-985-3221
Kids VT
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Get On Board Can’t wait to introduce your little one to snowboarding? You don’t have to. in anticipation of the riding season, the BurToN riGlET ParK ProGram sets up shop in eCHo’s lakeside Hall. For two weeks, an interactive exhibit introduces kids ages 3 through 8 to the principles of the winter sport. visitors can test out balance boards, build a mini-terrain park with kinetic sand and solve puzzles made of actual snowboards. and for one day only, burton and Smugglers’ Notch staffers head to the waterfront, where they help pint-size shredders navigate modified slopes — made of real snow! BurToN riGlET ParK ProGram: Indoor Riglet Park: Saturday, November 1, through Sunday, November 16, weekdays from 2:30-5 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Outdoor Riglet Park: Saturday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center in Burlington. Ages 3-8. Free with $10.50-13.50 admission. Info, 877-324-6386. echovermont.org
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Ornamania isBack! SATURDAYS IN NOVEMBER STOP IN BETWEEN 1:00P-3:00P
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22 saTurday (CoNtiNued)
manga club: Like-minded peers share their favorite Japanese comics. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. meet the North Pole Postman: The author of Post Mark: Santa's Misfit Postman comes dressed as the North Pole mail carrier for hourly readings and book signings. He'll even deliver kids' letters to Mr. Claus himself. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 764-1800.
music
Kids creating music: Bob Brookens leads children in a toe-tapping playtime with instrument activities, song and dance. 18 months-4 years. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
Nov 15
Nov 22
Nov 29
Bring the kids in every Saturday in November anytime from 1-3pm for a fun, easy and fast ornament. It is affordable, creative and kids will be thrilled when their ornaments are hung on the tree. All ages welcome.
locally owned & one of a kind! On Shelburne Road in Burlington Next Door to the Price Chopper CreativehabitatVT.com
Kids VT
November 2014
KidsVT.com
Nov 8
EcHo story Explorers: Not a stick: See November 18. machine madness: Emerging engineers of all ages link their home-built contraptions to create an incredible chain reaction. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 1-3 p.m. Free for families who preregister a machine; $11-14 museum admission otherwise; preregister. Info, 649-2200. my sky: See November 8.
Theater
rick Goldin and the music & Puppets: Little ones wiggle, dance and jump along to original and familiar songs presented by Rick and his puppet friends. Ages 3 and up. Alumni Hall. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 603-646-2422. saturday drama club: See November 8.
23 SUNDAY
Baby & maternity
Burlington Prenatal yoga: See November 4, 10:05-11:30 a.m.
Education
indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.
Health & Fitness
Essex sunday open Gym: See November 9.
Nature & science
my sky: See November 8. 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. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Paper-cup Telephones: Talkers and listeners discover whether sound can really travel through a string. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.
submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
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OPEN 9AM to 9PM M-S. 10-6 SUN
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Nature & science
CourteSY oF burtoN
KIDS GROW FAST!
Nov CaleNdar
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A Full Service Bead Store ★ Gifts for teachers and parents ★ Repairs and Pearl Knotting ★ Make yourself or buy premade ★ Birthday and Bridal Parties Instruction Always Available Class Schedule Available on Website www.beadcrazyvt.com 21 Taft Corners Shopping Center Williston 802-288-9666
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music
24 MONDAY Toddler Time art class: See November 5.
Baby & maternity
montpelier Prenatal yoga: See November 10. Vergennes Prenatal yoga: See November 10.
See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids
Games
Lego Fun: Budding builders share blocks. Grades K and up; kids under 5 are welcome to participate with adult supervision. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Health & Fitness
25 TUESDAY
arts & crafts
Build it day!: Construction workers of all ages explore the endless possibilities of a cardboard box. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970. creative Tuesdays: See November 4.
Baby & maternity
Burlington Prenatal yoga: See November 4. shelburne Prenatal yoga: See November 4.
Games
chess club: Game players have fun with the library's sets. All ages, but children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
ermont Medical Center Library & Books
essex drop-in story Time: See November 10. intergenerational dessert Book discussion: Lit lovers gather for a good read-and-rant session, complete with something sweet. Grades 6 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.
Health & Fitness
essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Library & Books
Gaming For Teens & adults: See November 4. Read to a dog: See November 4.
We are a not-for-profit clinic and we are here when you need us. Monday thru Friday 10am-8pm
Saturday & Sunday 9am-7pm
No Appointment Needed
LOWER CO-PAY than the ER
All Insurance Accepted
Lab and X-ray onsite
Get in. Get out. Get Well. 802.371.4239 / 1311 Barre Montpelier Road (next to Burger King)
Central Vermont Medical Center
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movie day at the Library: Film buffs catch a flick on the big screen. Call for film title. Snacks provided. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
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KidsVT.com November 2014
essex open Gym: See November 4. Little yogis: See November 10. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m. Tots yoga: See November 10. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
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music for Preschoolers: See November 6, 11 a.m.
arts & crafts
watches • tools • stringing materials •
• gold • pewter • metalsmithing supplies
• findings • seed beads • delicas • bali • sterling • books •
3/25/11 8:04 AM
NOV CALENDAR 25 TUESDAY (CONTINUED)
Music
Children's Sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See November 4. Kids Music with Raphael: See November 4. Music With Mr. Chris: See November 4.
Nature & Science
ECHO Story Explorers: In November: Birds are migrating and there's a chill in the air — so winter must be coming. Little scientists explore the seasonal shift. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.
Baby & Maternity
Educational Snake Program: Reptile lovers are wowed by an up-close-and-personal visit from scaled slitherers. Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See November 5. Nursing Beyond a Year: Moms See Dr. First videos gather to discuss the joys and “First With Kids” at challenges of an older nursling. fletcherallen.org/ Discussion topics include night26 WEDNESDAY firstwithkids time feeding, weaning and setting limits. Bring a snack to share. Arts & Crafts Aikido of Champlain Valley, BurlCandy-Cane-Making Demo: Families make ington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-3000. holiday memories as they watch candy makers in action, or they can get in on the fun and make Health & Fitness twisted treats of their own. Preregister to parEssex Open Gym: See November 4. ticipate. Laughing Moon Chocolates, Stowe, 11 Shelburne Open Gym: See November 4, noon. a.m. Free to watch. $6 person to make your own. Info, 253-9591. Williston Open Gym: See November 4. Toddler Time Art Class: See November 5.
Music
Preschool Music With Derek: See November 5. Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See November 5.
27 THURSDAY
Happy Thanksgiving! 28 FRIDAY
Arts & Crafts
Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See November 26. Family Wheel Drop-In: See November 7.
Library & Books
Creative Writing Club: See November 5. 28 FRIDAY, P.44
Story Times MONDAY
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Barre Children’s Story Hour: Alburgh Community Education Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 796-6077. Burlington Stories With Megan: Fletcher Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216. Colchester Preschool Story Time: urnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660. Milton Infant Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Northfield Children’s Story Time: Brown Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 485-4621. St. Albans Story Hour: St. Albans Free Library, Mondays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507. Stowe Story Time for 2- to 3-Year-Olds: Stowe Free Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Waitsfield Story Time: Joslin Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 496-4205. Waterbury Baby & Toddler Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Woodstock Baby Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295. TUESDAY Alburgh Story Hour: See Monday. Barre Children's Story Hour: Aldrich Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-7550. Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660. Essex Junction Baby & Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, Nov. 4, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956. Essex Junction Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, Nov. 4, 10-10:45 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956. Georgia Pajama Story Time: Georgia Public Library, third Tuesday of every month, 6:307:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643. Highgate Story Time: Highgate Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
Early-literacy skills get special attention during these read-aloud 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.
Hinesburg Preschool Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 482-2878. Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: CarpenterCarse Library, first and third Tuesday of every month, 9:30 a.m. and 9:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878. Milton Preschool Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Montpelier Story Time: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 10:30 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 Fall Story Time: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918. Woodstock Preschool Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295. WEDNESDAY Essex Toddler Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313. Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday. Johnson Story Time: Johnson Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 635-7141. Marshfield Story Time & Playgroup: Jaquith Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581. Norwich Story Time: Norwich Public Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 649-1184. Quechee Story Time: Quechee Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 295-1232. Randolph Morning Story Time: Kimball Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073. South Burlington Baby Book Time: South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539. South Burlington Story Time: Barnes & Noble, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001. 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. THURSDAY Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday. Essex Preschool Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313. Fairfax PJ Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, Nov. 6, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Northfield Children's Story Time: See Monday. Rutland Story Time: Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860. Shelburne Story Time: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124. St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday. Vergennes Story Time: Bixby Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 877-2211. Westford Story Time: Westford Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-5639. Winooski Preschool Story Time: Winooski Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-6424. FRIDAY Brandon Preschool Story Time: Brandon Free Public Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 247-8230. Enosburg Story Hour: Enosburg Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797. Essex Junction Drop-In Story Time: Brownell Library, Nov. 14, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. Essex Musical Story Time: Essex Free Library, third Friday of every month, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313. Fletcher Story Time: Fletcher Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 228-8921. 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 Toddler/Preschool Story Time: Lincoln Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2665. Milton Toddler Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday. 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, 652-7539. St. Johnsbury Story Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 748-8291. Stowe Baby & Toddler Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Waterbury Preschool Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. SATURDAY Barre Story Time: Next Chapter Bookstore, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-3114. Burlington Story Time at Phoenix Books: Phoenix Books, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 448-3350. Colchester Saturday Drop-In Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660. South Burlington Story Time: See Wednesday. Swanton Story Hour: See Wednesday. 10:30 a.m. Winooski Saturday Story Time: Winooski Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-6424. SUNDAY Williston Russian Story Time: Buttered Noodles, 11-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 730-2673.
PRESENTS
A TALENT SHOW FOR VERMONT’S RISING STARS
CASTING CALL!
Audition for the first-ever Kids VT Spectacular Spectacular — a talent show for Vermont’s rising stars at Higher Ground in December 2014. To participate you must try out in front of a panel of judges.
kidsvt.com
LIVE AUDITIONS Saturday, November 15
November 2014
Register your act at kidsvt.com/talentshow
Kids VT
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REAL FUN!
Montshire Museum! • 125+ Hands-on Exhibits • Daily Activities • Visiting Exhibitions • Science Park • Nature Trails • Live animals & aquariums • Museum Store • Free parking
Gift making for Kids: Parents drop of their littles ages 5-12 for an artsy presentmaking session. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $30 per child; half price for siblings. Info, oneartscollective@gmail.com.
$2 Off Admission! When you subscribe to Montshire’s eNews at montshire.org.
OPEN DAILY 10-5
Montshire Museum of Science
montshire.org • 802.649.2200 Exit 13 I-91, Norwich, VT
Health & Fitness
Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m. Williston open Gym: See November 4.
Registration Schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 17 6:00-7:00 p.m. 11 Week Session
Library & Books
Early Bird math: See November 7.
music
Children’s Lessons
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See dr. First videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids
indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.
Our programs are open to children of all ages.
878-1394 essexrink.com
shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 9 & 10:10 a.m.
Education
Skating Director, Jillian Frascoia
Wed., Thur. & Fri. Adult Lessons, Sun. 5:45 - 6:45 pm Ice skate rentals available
Health & Fitness
28 FRidAY (coNtiNued)
A Basic Skills Skating Badge Program at the Essex Skating Facility
VISIT
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Vermont Skating Academy
Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See November 7. music With derek: See November 7.
Nature & science
Fossils: Evidence of the Past: Youth sleuths clue into the origins of preserved remains. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children 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. Regular 11:03 AM museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Robins Nest Nature Playgroup: See November 7.
Theater
The Golden dragon Acrobats: Acrobatics, traditional dance and lavish costumes come together for this spectacular show celebrating the best of a 27 century-old Chinese Royal Tradition. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 3 & 7 p.m. $20-52; 25% discount for Family 4-Pack. Info, 760-4634. (See spotlight, page 27.)
29 SATURDAY
Arts & crafts
Services offered: ■
Infertility evaluations
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Assisted reproductive techniques including IUI/IVF/ICSI
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Preimplantation genetic testing in new, state of the art onsite laboratory
■
Fertility preservation
■
Care for endocrine issues like PCOS, irregular cycles, and pediatric gynecology
■
Full range of gynecologic ultrasound services (802) 655-8888 / www.nrmvt.com
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candy-cane-making demo: See November 26, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Kids craft: Reindeer ornaments: A light bulb shape is decorated with paint and pipe cleaners to create a mini Rudolph. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646. saturday Kids drop-in craft class: See November 8.
dance
'The Nutcracker': Young dancers from the Albany Berkshire Ballet visit the Land of Sweets in this holiday classic. All ages. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 3 & 7 p.m. $19-41. Info, 863-5966.
submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@ kidsvt.com.
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Kids VT
November 2014
KidsVT.com
Dr. Christine Murray and Dr. Peter Casson are pleased to announce the opening of Northeastern Reproductive Medicine.
10/28/14 3:20 PM
Library & Books
meet Llama Llama: Kids meet the lovable long-necked character from Vermont author Anna Dewdney's popular series, hear stories, create crafts, and enjoy face painting and buttered noodles. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.
Nature & science
Bird-monitoring Walk: Eagle-eyed participants bring binoculars to search the museum's property for fluttering feathers. Best for adults and older children. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 8-9:45 a.m. Donations welcome; preregister. Info, 434-2167. color mixing: Mini mixologists blend primary colors into brand-new hues. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. EcHo story Explorers: in November: See November 25. my sky: See November 8. Who sank the Boat?: See November 8.
Theater
saturday drama club: See November 8.
30 SUNDAY
Arts & crafts
candy-cane-making demo: See November 26.
Baby & maternity
Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See November 4, 10:05-11:30 a.m.
dance
'The Nutcracker': See November 29, 1 p.m.
Health & Fitness
Essex sunday open Gym: See November 9.
Nature & science
Kitchen chemistry: See November 15, 11 a.m. my sky: See November 8. skulls: Neophyte naturalists explore skeletal remains of local wildlife. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200. K
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REPTILE CIRCUS
For ion inspirat
Write Your own
Connecting Kids with Reptiles Paul LaRosa • 617.407.7533
reptilecircus.org
Sponsored by
Calling all bookworms!
Send us a thoughtful paragraph or short story inspired by the book for the chance to win some literary loot.
In Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, Alexander wakes up knowing the day isn’t going to go his way. Have you ever had a day like that? Write a paragraph (5-7 sentences) describing what happened, or make up a short story about a very bad day you could imagine.
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Looking for a babysitter?
10/28/14 3:11 PM
• Babysitters & Event Sitters • Full & Part Time Nannies • Temporary Nannies Available • Gift Certificates Available We are Vermont’s oldest & most experienced childcare placement agency. Our providers have undergone an intensive screening process.
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10/29/14 10:28 AM
Look how much we’ve grown!
_______________________________________________________________ Pick up a copy of Kids VT in 50 new locations across Vermont including:
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Price Chopper, Rutland, West Rutland, St. Johnsbury, Malletts Bay and Colchester
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The Farm Store, Jeffersonville
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The Traveled Cup, St. Albans
Age __________________________________ Town ________________________________
Mimmo’s Pizzeria and Restaurant, Essex and St. Albans
email ________________________________
Espresso Bueno, Barre
Phone ________________________________
The Bagel Place, South Burlington Winooski Memorial Library Winooski City Offices (Lobby) Electric Youth Dance Co., Georgia
14 Church Street Burlington crowbooks.com 862-0848
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10/31/14 11:49 AM
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For a full list of our 600+ locations, contact Kids VT at 802-985-5482
Kids VT
New Books, Used Books, Remainders at GREAT PRICES!
Name ________________________________
November 2014
Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Book Review, P.o. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.
Bob’s Meat Market, St. Albans
KidsVT.com
We’ll pick the four most creative entries and excerpt them in the next issue. Winners receive a $25 gift certificate to crow Bookshop. Deadline to enter is November 15.
Join us for Sunday, November 9
9am, 1 mile kids fun run // 9:30am, 5k Meet at SKIRACK, 85 Main Street, Burlington Nutritious breakfast & raffle after both runs. Children 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
www.runvermont.org/funruns 10/29/14 10:30 AM
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Looking for that perfect gift?
10/27/14 11:08 AM
November 2014
kidsvt.com
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Kids VT
online gift guide for a list of local businesses carrying our musthaves of the season.
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hands-on
Q habitat B y A liso n N ova k matthew thorsen
Juanita Galloway in her kitchen with business partner Anne Marcoe and their five kids, (bottom to top) Claire Marcoe, Theo Galloway, Georgia Marcoe, Henry Marcoe and Henry Galloway.
Home Bakery
• In the early months of the business, Galloway used her kitchen fridge to store cakes and perishable ingredients. When it became overcrowded, she bought a second fridge solely for Good Comida, which she keeps in the garage. She stores nonperishable ingredients in large tubs in the kitchen pantry.
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“Habitat” is a 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.
Kids VT
• Galloway and Marcoe use regular-size KitchenAid mixers and food processors to prep ingredients. By law, home bakeries are not allowed to have industrial equipment.
November 2014
each week — from the kitchen counter into the refrigerator and transition back to mom mode. Establishing boundaries between family and work can be challenging, the women agree. “It’s really hard to turn off our brains,” Galloway says. Strategizing via text message in the evenings and bookkeeping on Sundays when the husbands can watch the kids allow Good Comida to keep on cooking even when school’s out. But taste testing is a family affair, to the delight of Galloway’s 6-year-old son. “Every single day when Henry gets home,” she said, “he asks if there’s cheesecake for dessert.” K
kidsvt.com
playing or napping, the pair bakes Think it’s hard to keep your and tests recipes — including a light kitchen tidy? Try running a bakedand silky cheesecake that Galloway’s goods business out of it. mom used to bake in Bogotá Shelburne friends Juanita and Marcoe’s chocolateGalloway and Anne Marcoe Mom: Juanita dipped peanut-butter-ball own Good Comida, a home Galloway “buckeyes” — in Galloway’s bakery specializing in Kids: Theo and home-bakery-certified Colombian-style cheeseHenry Galloway, kitchen. They deliver cake and chocolate-dipped 2 and 6 their delicacies to Healthy confections made with Living Market & Café, City locally sourced ingredients. Market and Shelburne They have five kids, ages 2 to Supermarket. 10, between them. When the kids get home from Two to three days a week, while school, Galloway and Marcoe transfer the older children are in school, and the cooling cakes — usually 12 to 14 Galloway’s 2-year-old son, Theo, is
• Good Comida is one of 181 licensed home bakeries in the state, according to the Vermont Department of Health. In preparation for a required visit from a food inspector, Galloway says, “I literally spent the entire month cleaning my kitchen from top to bottom.”
HANDS-ON ANSWERS P.51
PUZZLE PAGE
Birthday Club Winners get gift certificates to:
Congratulations to these November Birthday Club winners! GRAND-PRIZE WINNER CLARA lives in Waitsfield and turns 5 on November 25. She adores playing outside, being silly with her older brother, collecting flowers and creating art with lots of glitter. Clara wins a birthday-party package for up to 10 kids.
Join the Club!
To enter, submit information using the online form at kidsvt.com/birthday-club. Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled.
Ignazio, Cariah and Jack each win a player pass.
IGNAZIO lives in St. Albans and turns 9 on November 14. He can often be found working on a new LEGO creation or with his nose in a book. He loves spending time in museums and being goofy with his friends.
Puzzles4Kids
VT’S BIRTHDAY CAPITAL
BY HELENA HOVANEC
More to do under one roof than anywhere in VT!
48
KIDS VT
NOVEMBER 2014
KIDSVT.COM
Riddle Search — AUTUMN Look up, down and diagonally, both forward and backward, to find every word on the list. Circle each one as you find it. When all the words are circled, take the UNUSED letters and write them on the blanks below. Go from left to right and top to bottom to find the answer to this riddle: What did one autumn leaf say to the other?
APPLES CHESTNUTS CIDER CLOUDS COCOA CORN HAYSTACK HOLIDAYS
LEAF PILE MAIZE PINE CONE PUMPKIN RAKE THANKFUL TURKEY YAMS
Riddle Answer:
___
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ .
CARIAH lives in Middlesex and turns 8 on November 17. She loves cooking, reading, raising bunnies, making clay creations and climbing her apple tree.
MINI-GOLF • GIANT PLAY STRUCTURE PIZZA • CAKES • LASER TAG ARCADE • BATTING CAGES BIRTHDAY CROWN OR TIARA
JACK lives in Lincoln and turns 9 on November 29. He spends lots of time with his two brothers playing outside and riding bikes.
1205 Airport Pky • So. Burlington (802) 862-7888
✱ DRAWING ON HISTORY B Y T HE A L E W IS A N D I A N W EB B
Joel Addison Hartley Ellis 1830 - 1888
Inventor of the Jointed Doll Joel Addison Hartley Ellis was born in 1830 in Barnet. He moved in with an uncle in Springfield when he was 14, after his mother died.
A year later, he began working in a bookshop, spending his spare time reading technical books and brushing up on his mechanic skills. He got his first patent at age 18 for a “steam excavating machine” that lifted rock and soil. By the age of 28, Ellis owned a factory that manufactured a splint basket — a woven rectangular container — that he designed himself.
KIDS VT
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“Drawing on History” is a monthly feature about a notable Vermont person, place or event from days of yore. Want to suggest a future topic? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
NOVEMBER 2014
His workers painted the dolls to give them hair and facial features. They were wrapped in soft paper and sold by the dozen for $13.50.
A year later, Ellis sold his doll-making machinery and moved to New Jersey, where he became a ceramics manufacturer until his death in 1888. But Springfield mechanics continued to make his jointed dolls and many doll makers still admire him today.
KIDSVT.COM
In 1858, he opened a Springfield toy factory, which manufactured doll carriages, and in 1872, he began creating the first jointed dolls in North America. Their 18-inch bodies, made of local maple, had bendable hips, shoulders, arms and legs.
His next invention was inspired by watching his four children play. Most early dolls were simple, made of cornhusks, cloth or wood, with no moving parts. Ellis noticed that his kids liked to prop theirs into a sitting position to “feed” them.
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KIDS VT
NOVEMBER 2014
KIDSVT.COM
COLORING CONTEST!
Title _______________________________________
Three winners will receive $25 gift cards to Creative Habitat and free framing of their artwork for its Kids Gallery, located at the store on 555 Shelburne Road in Burlington. Winning artists can pick up their framed work to display at home any time after December 1.
Artist _____________________________________
Send Kids VT your work of art by November 15. Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 5 and younger, (2) ages 6-8 and (3) ages 9-12. Winners will be named in the 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.
Address ___________________________________
Age _______________________________________ Email _____________________________________ Phone _____________________________________
use your words
Museum on the Go!
The First Thanksgiving
Preparing for the big meal — this time as the host
I don’t even cook. And my husband, I recently learned, will be away for work until Thanksgiving Day.
Perfect winter programing for schools, clubs, homeschool groups, & anyone who loves to learn!
History, Music, Ecology, & More!
4472 Basin Harbor Road Vergennes, VT 05491
(802) 475-2022 Open Daily 10-5
www.lcmm.org
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PUZZLE PAGE ANSWERS (see p.48) JUmbLES why. test. sunk. next. RIDDLE ANSWER: After forgetting where he buried his lunch, the squirrel — WENt NUtS
51
RIDDLE SEARCH ANSWER: I am falling for you.
Kids VT
“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.
Our Educators will come to you!
November 2014
preparing for this meal has. It’s like some sort of official recognition from the actual adults in my family that I’ve joined their ranks. But I like being catered to. And since I became a parent six years ago, this special occasion is another event at which I feel splintered, unable to participate fully in a meaningful discussion without having to chase my kid off the stairs or break up a fight over so-and-so’s thingamajig. I end up devoting my energy to my kids at these gatherings, and I’ve yet to contribute so much as a batch of cookies. So when I was tapped to host, I wondered how I would successfully manage the entire meal. I don’t even cook. And my husband, I recently learned, will be away for work until Thanksgiving Day. After freaking out, I called my mom to pass the buck to her. But instead of indulging my childish tantrum, she reminded me that the host is only responsible for cooking the turkey and the mashed potatoes. “Relax,” she said. “Nobody is asking you to do this on your own.” And then it dawned on me: That’s how this magnificent feast has always come together. Nobody in the history of our Thanksgiving celebration has ever been expected to pull it off alone. Being a grown-up, it turns out, means being wise enough to rely on others for help. My aunts will bring the green-bean casserole, the roasted squash and, of course, the tourtière. They will bake the apple and pumpkin pies, Mom-Mom’s crescent rolls, and the gone-before-you-can-grab-one seven-layer bars. My parents will arrive a day early to help clean the house, set up a couple of giant tables and, most helpful of all, take care of my kids. So bring it on, November! I’m ready to embrace my official grown-up status. And I’m excited to welcome my family into my home, to fill them up and to live out a childhood dream — in all of my grown-up glory. K
KidsVT.com
When i Was nominaTed To hosT my extended family’s Thanksgiving this year, I felt conflicted. Having 25 to 35 people at my house for what’s expected to be the best meal of the year is a giant responsibility. But it’s one I’ve been eagerly anticipating since I was a kid. My mom is one of five siblings. To accommodate so many relatives, we’ve never celebrated on the actual holiday. Thanksgiving dinner always takes place on the Saturday after the last Thursday in November. It’s the only day of the year when all of my maternal aunts, uncles and cousins get together. Growing up, I looked forward to Thanksgiving Saturday all year long. I vividly remember the sweetand-savory aroma of my aunt’s tourtière, the yams with marshmallows, the buttery-smooth feeling of the vinyl-topped card table that served as the kids’ table, and my Uncle Jim’s boisterous laughter. Thanksgiving Saturday felt like one of the longest days of the year — so much time to play, eat and then eat again the moment I felt a little bit hungry. When I reached junior high, I recognized that our gathering was also an opportunity to impress the grown-ups with my poise and teenage accomplishments. Between the food, the playtime and the attention, those Saturdays filled me up in every way. I never thought about how it all came together, never wondered who made which dish or how the event was organized. The grown-ups never seemed stressed or worried; everything just worked. Like magic. Hosting privileges rotate annually among family members. As a young adult, I lived in tiny New York City apartments, so until I moved to Vermont four years ago, I was never a candidate. Now I have a big blue house on a hill in Williston, which I chose, in part, for its Thanksgiving suitability. You’d think I’d be excited to finally live out my dream of hosting. Instead, I hesitated. I’m 37 years old. I’ve been married for nine years and we have two children. Somehow, none of these things have made me feel like an adult the way
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