Kids VT - July 2011 - Vermont Day-Cations

ALL NEW!

FREE ✱ MAKING AND FLYING COOL KITES ✱ DR. FIRST ON BITES AND STINGS ✱ DADS TALK TRUTH-TELLING ✱ GROWING UP ASIAN IN THE N.E.K.

JULY 2011

Contest!

Find all the kites in this issue and win passes to the Shelburne Museum.

Details on page 7.

V OL.1 8 NO.6

Day- cations VERMONT

PART 2: 10 TRIPS TO EXPLORE

MOUNTAINS & TRAILS

General & Cosmetic Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry • Orthodontics • Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

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Kids VT

July 2011

kidsvt.com

Caring for a healthy smile starts earlier than you may think. From the time they start eating finger food, your children are ready to see a dentist. Our team includes the only board-certified pediatric dentists in Chittenden County, who have gone through years of specialized training, so your children can get the unique care they need for their one-of-a-kind smiles. Visit us at www.timberlanedental.com.

Conveniently located in South Burlington, Burlington, Essex Junction and Shelburne

Chiropractic for

KIDS & Adults

VOL.18 N O.6

JULY 2011 DEPARTMENTS

STINA BOOTH

From the Kids VT Staff ............................................5 See and Say: Contests .............................................7 Celebrations.....................................................................41 Birthday Club..................................................................43 Use Your Words: Essay ..........................................47

• Natural Help for Ear Fluid and Colic

VERMONT DAY-CATIONS

EAT. LEARN. PLAY The Kids Beat ..................................................................8 Ask Dr. First: Insect Stings and Bites ........10 Fit Families: A Walk in the Woods ...............11 The Librarian Likes .................................................11 The Kids Menu Home Cookin’: Go Fish! ................................12 Out to Eat: Piecasso Pizzeria ................13 Go Ask Dad: Telling the Truth ...........................14 The Art of... Slide Trombone ..............................15 In Season: Blueberries............................................27

• Practicing 20 years in VT • Most Insurance covers chiropractic care including BCBS, Cigna, Auto Acc

Part 2: ............................................................................................................... 20 10 day trips exploring mountains and trails

• Optimize & Improve Overall Health

Dr. Jennifer Peet

Send It Soaring ............................................... 17 Kids build and fly kites for the “Thought Bombers” exhibit

Chiropractic for KIDS & Adults

MATTHEW THORSEN

CALENDAR Daily Listings ..................................................................28 Ongoing Playgroups .................................................30 Ongoing Story Times...............................................33 Ongoing Exhibits .......................................................34

2882 Shelburne Road Shelburne/Burlington Area www.drspeet.com Call for an appt: 985-9500

THE

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BELLWETHER SCHOOL

ON THE COVER

HANDS-ON

Cover photo by Caleb Kenna.

The Crittendens of Underhill were one of two families who volunteered to hike accompanied by a Kids VT photographer for inclusion in this month’s issue.

Many thanks to the Crittendens as well as the Oszureks from St. Albans who appear inside.

Crafting With Kids: Hammered Flowers....40 The Party Planner: Let’s Get Wet .................42 Puzzle Page ......................................................................44 Coloring Contest .........................................................45

Preschool Kindergarten Elementary After School

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS Publisher Editor Creative Director Associate Editor Calendar Writer Account Executive Account Executive Marketing & Events Director

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 Publications of America. Kids VT distribution is audited for accuracy.

Contributing Writers: Dan Bolles, Mary Brodsky, Kristina Creighton, Erik Esckilsen, Cheryl Herrick, Megan James, Ken Picard, Katrina Roberts, Sarah Tuff Photographers: Stina Booth, Andy Duback, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur Illustrators: Pat Lewis, Andy Singer

& teachers honor the whole child

...that’s our school!

To see us in action, watch the VIDEO on our website or come in for a TOUR!

1186 S. Brownell Rd. Williston (802)863-4839 BellwetherSchool.org

BLAZING NEW TRAILS.

Spaces available in our Preschool Program for 2011-12

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

Copy Editors/Godparents Pamela Polston Paula Routly Proofreader Kate O’Neill Production Manager Krystal Woodward Designers Brooke Bousquet Celia Hazard Rev. Diane Sullivan Circulation Manager Steve Hadeka Deputy Web Editor Tyler Machado Office Manager Cheryl Brownell

parents are engaged in their child’s education

KIDS VT

•

© 2011 Da Capo Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.

ext. 77 ext. 74 ext. 71 ext. 73 ext. 78 ext. 75 ext. 72 ext. 76

where children leap through the door with excitement,

JULY 2011

•

Published 11x per year.

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

colby@kidsvt.com cathy@kidsvt.com don@kidsvt.com kate@kidsvt.com Maryellen@kidsvt.com katrina@kidsvt.com kristi@kidsvt.com judy@kidsvt.com

2:55 PM

KIDSVT.COM

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

Colby Roberts Cathy Resmer Don Eggert Kate Laddison Maryellen Apelquist Katrina Roberts Kristi Batchelder Judy Beaulac

Imagine4/20/11 a place...

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5/26/11 11:55 AM

One of Vermont's Most Spectacular

Staycation Destinations Natural

Cultural

Recreational

Planning your Northeast Kingdom Vacation is easy when you visit

Unforgettable

Interactive Map Self-Guided Tour Itineraries Event Listings Vacation Packages

TraveltheKingdom.com the region’s most comprehensive travel website with Online Booking, Travel Tools, & a Country Store

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6/16/11 12:41 PM

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6/20/11 12:32 PM

OPEN YEAR ROUND!

More to Explore

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KIDS VT

JULY 2011

KIDSVT.COM

May-October, Open Daily November-April, reservations suggested

EXIT 34 & 35 OFF I-87

12 MI. SOUTH OF PLATTSBURGH ON ROUTE 9 (518) 834-7454 • AUSABLECHASM.COM GPS COORDINATES/44.525149 -73.462702

FINALLY! Summer is Here...

Let the Kids Set the Pace ONE RECENT EVENING, I was doing some weeding in the garden when I found a patch of wild strawberries growing near our fence. I called my 3-year-old son, Oliver, over to show him. Like me, Oliver is a mover and a shaker (meaning we both have trouble sitting still), but our ideas of timeliness differ. I have a schedule, he has a scooter. I like to be on time, he can’t even tell time. Sigh.

I had been planning to plant seedlings, fix supper, call my brother, fit in a bath … and so on.

But Oliver plopped himself down in my lap, and his excitement at these sweet, hidden treats stopped time. Suddenly the world shrank to Kevin, Kate & Oliver Laddison that small patch of heaven. I let the rest go. I couldn’t tell you how long we sat, and ate, and tickled one another with timothy.

It can be hard to see the world from a kid’s perspective, but when I make the effort, I’m usually surprised, and always amazed, by the experience.

This issue of Kids VT offers lots of opportunities for you to see the world from a child’s point of view. This month’s Kids Beat (page 8) includes both the PBS Kids Go! Writers Contest and the Arts Bus Project, which encourage kids’ creativity. The fathers who spoke with Erik Esckilsen for “Go Ask Dad” (page 14) tell stories about how their families have grappled with honesty and truth telling. In her feature about a kite-art show at the BCA Center (page 17), Megan James writes about kids making kites and sending their dreams soaring into the sky.

Getting in step with your little ones also comes up in this month’s mountains and trails installment of the Vermont Day-cations series. If you’re going hiking with your kids, the operative words are “with your kids,” not “going hiking.”

Match your pace to theirs, see the trails from their perspective, let them take the lead. It’s really about the journey, no matter how far or fast you go.

Kate Laddison, associate editor kate@kidsvt.com

What’s the one thing you pack on a hike with your kids?

An extra pair of pants and socks for both kids, in case someone gets wet — on purpose or by accident.

— Cathy Resmer, editor

Check out our huge selection of Swim Diapers, Baby Safe Sunscreens, Pool, Sandbox and Outdoor Toys.

Maternity Swimwear Reg. $49.99 Sale price $14.99

All Children’s Swimsuits are now 40-50% off

Now Accepting Baby Gear for Consignment.

When your item sells, earn 100% Store Credit or 60% by check for your gently used

Strollers • Exersaucers • Front & Back Carriers • Changing Tables • Dressers • Playpens Swings • High Chairs • Pack n Plays • Gliders • Cradles • Crib Mattresses & more Sorry, no cribs, car seats, or toddler beds. Call for info or email info@butterednoodles.com

We accept consignment items Tue-Thu 11-3 or by appointment.

As space is limited, we must be selective about what we accept. We reserve the right to refuse any merchandise.

Please only clean, undamaged, gently used baby gear.

Children’s Wear • Footwear • Baby/Nursery • Books • Toys

64 Harvest Lane, Williston (802) 764-1810 1/2 mile from Tafts Corners • Across from the New England Federal Credit Union www.butterednoodles.com Hours: Mon - Sat 9:30 - 6 Sun 11-5 k4t-ButteredNoodles0711-2.indd 1

THE SCHOOLHOUSE

6/23/11 3:04 PM

TIME IS RUNNING OUT! There are a few openings left

– see what The Schoolhouse can do for YOUR CHILD!

A garbage bag. It can serve as a rain poncho, a dry place to sit, a bag to collect trash, or a container for wet, muddy clothes.

— Kate Laddison, associate editor

Still unsure about where to send your child to school this fall? This decision is a big one and has a profound impact on your child’s development. If you want your early kindergartener (4 ½ year old), kindergartener or even 1st through 4th grader to have an experience that builds a strong foundation that lasts a lifetime, call The Schoolhouse Learning Center today.

Granola bars. They’re easy to pack, and I can bring different varieties so everyone’s happy!

— Katrina Roberts, account executive

For more information, visit www.theschoolhousevt.org or contact Director of Admissions Linda Barnes at 355-7023 8 Catkin Dr., S.Burlington • 658-4164 • theschoolhousevt.org

KIDS VT

5

Bug spray! It’s always in our backpack just in case the mosquitoes start buzzing in our ears.

— Kristi Batchelder, account executive

The Schoolhouse is a family-centered, multicultural school with strong academics and a caring and experienced staff.

JULY 2011

Water, fruit, pretzels and sunscreen!

— Cheryl Herrick, writer

KIDSVT.COM

Schoolhouse is conveniently located off Dorset Street, just 10 minutes from the University Mall.

We offer an affordable and fun After School for members and nonmembers.

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6/23/11 12:56 PM

Williston • Georgia Register now for Summer Dance Camps and classes!

Ages 2 1/2 - Adult Air COnditioned studios to register call

878-4213

or Visit us online at...

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3/16/11 9:25 AM

NEFCU makes it easy to save, whether it’s for a home, a car, an education – or just a rainy day.

Don’t wait until tomorrow, start saving today! Stop in at any branch or call (802) 879-8790.

kidsvt.com

Set up Automatic Savings and you can transfer funds automatically into one or more savings accounts that you can name yourself!

Kids VT

July 2011

You pick the name, and then a Member Service Representative will be happy to assist you.

See nefcu.com for details.

6

NEFCU NMLS#446767

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Local, affordable, and on your side™.

6/20/11 2:48 PM

Q:

SEE AND SAY

What is the go-to drink for your kids?

COLORING CONTEST

It’s important to stay hydrated in the summer heat, and our June poll shows that Kids VT readers are making smart drink choices for their families. A May report from the American Academy of Pediatrics warned against giving kids energy drinks filled with lots of caffeine and recommended that kids consume sports drinks such as Gatorade only when they’re actually playing sports.

Our poll showed that water is the local family favorite by far. Cheers!

The winners of our three $25 cash prizes are...

Each month, a panel of Seven Days and Kids VT staffers judges the Kids VT coloring contest. This month we had a nine-way tie in the 9 to 12 age group and were forced to enlist three more tie-breaking judges before we could make a final decision.

Color us amazed at your talent!

Congratulations to all the winners.

HONORABLE MENTIONS GREATEST DISTANCE FROM OUR OFFICE Bridgette Groff, 9, Orleans

Angus O’Neil-Dunne, 4

BEST USE OF GLITTER Aya Yuasa, 12, Charlotte

BURLINGTON

“Circus Frenzy”

BEST EARTH-TONE COLOR PALETTE Sjasja Nguyen, 9, Colchester

71% Water

15% Milk

7% Other

3% Apple juice

2% Soda

2% Sports drinks

Contests!

Count the Kites to Win a Prize

Find all of the kites fluttering in the pages of the July issue and you could win tickets to the Shelburne Museum. First, count the kites. Then tell us how many you found at kidsvt.com, or write us at Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. We’ll collect the correct responses and choose two winners, who will each receive four free passes to the museum.

Enter by 5 p.m. on July 15 to win.

Last Month’s Winners:

Strawberry-Counting Contest

BEST SELF-DRAWN EMBELLISHMENTS Brynn Coughlin, 8, Colchester AMAZING AQUA Astrid, 7, Montpelier SENSATIONAL SUN RAYS Violet Bluestein, 8, Burlington

Elias Parzyck, 6

BEST BLACK Ava Kahl, 6, Charlotte

COLCHESTER

“The Funfair Is Here”

TERRIFIC TEXTURE Cecie Ladd, 8, St. Albans BEST BACKGROUND SQUIGGLES Hanna Coughlin, 4, Colchester

9 to 12

TOP TITLES “Parade of Death,” Miles Mitchell, 7, Stowe “Sunny With a Big Chance of People,” Jacob Veilleux, 10, Essex “Such a Silly Circus,” Emma Radler, 10, North Ferrisburg “Celebrate Freedom of Expression,” Margaret Cahill, 10, Rochester See a slide show of all the submissions at kidsvt.com.

Find this month’s contest on page 45. The deadline is July 15.

Speak Up! Kids VT wants to publish your rants and raves.

Satchel McLaughlin, 11 MIDDLEBURY

“Celebration!!”

Your comments should • be no more than 250 words long, • respond to Kids VT content, and • include your full name, town and a daytime phone number.

Email us at feedback@kidsvt.com or send a letter to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. We also reprint comments we receive via Facebook and Twitter, with permission from the authors. Kids VT reserves the right to edit for accuracy and length.

KIDS VT

In another June contest, Tyler and Tanner Perkins of West Rutland and Rheia Powell of Berlin won passes granting free entry to any of Vermont’s State Parks for the 2011 season.

BEST TATTOOS AND MISSING TEETH Vickie, 10, Colchester

JULY 2011

State Parks Passes Contest

OUTSTANDING OUTLINES Christina Miller, 9, Georgia

5 to 8

KIDSVT.COM

Allyson and Caitlyn Bain of Wolcott correctly counted 33 strawberries hiding throughout the pages of the June issue. They’ll be heading to the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich with their winnings: four free passes.

4 and under

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THE Vermont’s Oldest & Most Experienced Childcare Placement Agency

Need a babysitter for a night out?

BEAT

BY KAT E LAD D ISON & CAT HY RE SME R

ARTS

Color Wheels

CT

COURTESY OF THE ART BUS PROJE

You might think kids would groan at the sight of a school bus in July, but Mention this ad for 10% off! not when it’s full of art supplies. The ARTS BUS Services Include: got rolling recently on • Full & Part Time Nannies its second summer tour • Babysitters & Event Sitters to seven Vermont com• Temporary Nannies Available munities. Last summer • Gift Certificates Available 1900 children climbed aboard, and organizers Our childcare providers have undergone an have doubled the length intensive screening process. of the 2011 season. Donated by a retired driver 802-872-1VNC (1862) in memory of his music-teacher wife, the brightwww.vermontnannyconnection.com green Arts Bus has been gutted and refitted with café-table art stations, supply cubbies, books, a circular seating area and a hydraulic fold-out k8v-VtNanny0711.indd 1 6/13/11 3:49 PM stage in back. The focus is on simple projects that kids and families can re-create and reconstruct at home, or in childcare. The Chandler Center for the Arts and other Randolph-area organizations collaborate to bring this free service to rural families. Funding comes through seed money, grants and donations. Director Cynthia Sandusky says the program’s popularity comes from handing

the reins, or in this case the paintbrushes, over to the kids. “They get to do it,” she says. “That’s what’s really exciting to them, their own selfexpression.” New this year, the Arts Bus Project is offering creativity training for childcare providers. The project hopes to raise money for a second, smaller bus to allow year-round mobile art. — K.L. THE ARTS BUS PROJECT: Visits Randolph, Braintree, Brookfield, Bethel, Chelsea, Tunbridge and Williamstown this summer and early fall. Info, artsbus.org.

OUTDOORS

How’s the Water?

At Mater Christi School, our teachers are committed to Discovering Personal Greatness in every student.

Call to schedule your personal tour.

802.658.3992 www.mcschool.org A ministry of the Sisters of Mercy, Mater Christi is a private Catholic school serving students in pre-school through grade 8 in Burlington, Vermont.

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KIDS VT

JULY 2011

KIDSVT.COM

©Ambient Photography

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5/25/11 2:46 PM

The heavy spring rains that flooded Lake Champlain washed loads of pollutants into the water. Now that the lake is back below flood stage, state officials say it’s safe for swimming.

But it’s still smart to double check the water quality before you pack up the beach blanket, cooler and bathing suits.

Since kids often spend dawn to dusk in the water, and are prone to swallowing more of it than adults, they’re exposed to greater health risks from bacteria. The VERMONT STATE PARKS test water quality each week at designated swimming areas. Find results on the state-parks website in PDF form. If you’re heading to a town beach, you can contact the local health officer to find out how testing is handled in your area. Look up your town’s health officer on the VERMONT DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH website, also home to other water-testing resources. — K.L. WATER-TESTING RESOURCES: Vermont State Parks, 241-3655, vtstateparks. com; Vermont Department of Health, 863-7200, healthvermont.gov/enviro/ water/recwater.aspx#one.

Shelburne Farms

EAT. LEARN. PLAY.

Bring the whole family!

SPORTS

It’s a Clinch Photos: Orah Moore, Roz Graham

Grappling with how to keep your young wrestler active in the off season? A new school is throwing down a solution. VERMONT WRESTLING ACADEMY, the state’s first year-round wrestling school, opened its doors on Commerce Street in Williston June 20. Head coach and owner Gunnar Olson says the VWA aims to fill a gap for student wrestlers outside the winter season.

Weekly sessions began in June; after-school programs and classes get under way in the fall. The VWA practice studios contain state-of-the-art crash pads, dummies, bungees and body harnesses, as well as flat-screen TVs on which to study the sport. Academics are also a priority — the academy includes an area where schoolwork will be done before wrestlers come to the mats.

Olson began wrestling at age 7, competed for Norwich University and now coaches at Champlain Valley Union High School. He calls wrestling a mental chess game as well as a physical test. “You put everything on the line; it’s just you and your opponent,” he says of the sport. “You’re 100 percent accountable.” — K.L.

• Children’s Farmyard • Walking Trails • Farm Cart Lunch • Property Tours • Special Events • Welcome Center & Farm Store Open thru Oct. 16.

Trails & Store Open Year-Round

VERMONT WRESTLING ACADEMY: Weekly summer academies run through August. 338 Commerce Street, Williston. Info, 802-922-5266. vermontwrestlingacademy.com

BOOKS

Cats and Dogs

6/16/11 1:09 PM

Take a break from the sun.

Spend a day making your own jewelry

sterling • gold • pewter • delicas charms • books • stringing materials tools • pearls • findings • gem stones

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

KIDS VT

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PBS KIDS GO! WRITERS CONTEST WINNERS: Find a complete list of winners, videos of all of their stories and the awards-ceremony broadcast on the VPT website at vpt.org/ show/18617/0.

Summer Fun! Crafty

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Children’s books are usually books for kids, not by them. But every year, Vermont Public Television invites students in grades K through 3 to write and illustrate their own stories for the PBS KIDS GO! WRITERS CONTEST. This year, VPT received nearly 200 entries from all over the state. A panel of judges, including myself and former Kids VT editor Susan Holson, picked the winners. It wasn’t an easy task, but it was fun to read the delightfully creative tales. Montpelier second-grader Megan Krussman described a magical encounter with an “otterpus,” a creature that was part octopus and part otter. Brewer Walton of Stowe, the winner in the kindergarten category, wrote about making a Star Wars Lego ship. “Once I went to sleep,” he wrote, “the Star Wars Lego ship came to life. The ship left my house and went to Barack Obama’s bank. Someone was stealing money from the bank ... The Lego ship uses magic lasers and turns the bad robber into a little Lego man.” You can see all of the finalists and hear their stories on the VPT website. VPT televised the June 3 awards ceremony; two of the presenters were former contest winners who spoke about the importance of writing and literacy in their lives. — C.R.

JULY 2011

“NO DOGS ALLOWED:” Published by HarperCollins and available in hardcover, $16.99. Info, harpercollins.com, annemadecards.com

Write On

KIDSVT.COM

Ever wonder what’s going on in your cat’s head? A new children’s book by Barre author Anne Davis imagines the sillyfun inner life of her cats. In NO DOGS ALLOWED!, Davis shares thoughts from Bud and Gabby, who write in surprisingly vivid and colorful voices. The orange tabby Buddy Mueller describes a dog’s imposition on his carefree life with pal Gabby. Buddy is a great storyteller — Davis even lets him write her blog: annemadecards.com/blog. In their spare time, the cats shred the newspaper and play with socks. They also don raincoats and open an umbrella for a rainy search. The book is a sequel to the 2006 Bud and Gabby, and the cats also appear in Davis’ petinspired greeting-card art.

The characters are a tribute to Davis’ real-life cats, who passed away years ago. The stories are a way to keep them alive. “That makes it really fun to be working on this,” she says.

— K.L.

1611 Harbor Rd. Shelburne, VT • 985-8686 www.shelburnefarms.org

CONTESTS

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6/21/11 11:53 AM

A HEALTHY BODY BEGINS WITH A HEALTHY SPINE

CK BA

A NDY D U

KIDS + CHIRO = HEALTH

✱ ASK DR. FIRST

What’s the best way to deal with insect stings and bites?

VERMONT’S BIGGEST SUMMER drawback has got to be biting and stinging insects. After this year’s record flooding, the summer of 2011 will likely deliver a hefty wallop of mosquitoes, blackflies and other critters that can make families miserable.

But parents need not keep kids indoors out of fear of red, itchy welts. This month, Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital, offers tips for taking the sting out of outdoor fun.

KIDS VT: How can parents prevent kids from being bitten or stung?

RUSHFORD FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC LEWIS FIRST: First, you need to know when bugs tend to 100 Dorset Street, Suite 21 • 860-3336 be out, which is usually around dawn and dusk. So, you may www.rushfordchiropractic.com want to reduce your outdoor activities at those times of day.

In addition, avoid places where mosquitoes gather, including 12v-rusford-031710.indd 1 3/12/10 3:01:24 PMstagnant pools of water, uncovered food and gardens with blooming flowers.

KVT: What’s the best clothing to wear?

LF: You don’t want to dress your child to look like a flower.

Basically, kids shouldn’t wear bright colors, particularly at dawn and dusk. Khaki and beige are not attractive to mosquitoes. Also, you don’t want your child to smell like a flower. So, avoid fragrant soaps, shampoos and lotions. If you’re going to be out at a time when bugs are rampant, loose-fitting, longsleeve shirts, thin-fabric long pants and socks will prevent mosquitoes and ticks from reaching the skin. Kids who’ve been in or around woods should take their clothes off when they get home, shower and get inspected thoroughly for ticks. The deer tick is the size of a pencil point, whereas the dog tick is larger and easier to find.

very small percentage of children will develop a severe allergy to the stings, to the point where they develop severe difficulty breathing and a large drop in blood pressure — a condition called anaphylaxis. This is a serious medical emergency.

KVT: How should parents treat bee stings?

LF: Bees leave behind their stingers. Wasps do not. The bee’s stinger contains the venom that can trigger an allergic reaction. So, squeezing the stinger with tweezers to pull it out can actually squeeze venom into the skin and cause more of a reaction. What you want to do is scrape the skin horizontally with a credit card or playing card and ease the stinger out.

KVT: Should parents be concerned about Lyme disease?

LF: The good news is that it takes almost 48 hours for the deer tick to inject the germ that causes Lyme disease into the skin.

Usually by that time you’ve found the tick and removed it. So, the odds of being bitten by a tick and getting Lyme disease are extremely small.

KVT: What’s the best method for removing a tick?

LF: You don’t want to puncture the tick. Take a pair of tweezers, surround the tick and pull it upward with a slow, steady motion. Don’t twist or squeeze, because KVT: How effective are insect repellents? you may leave behind a piece of the tick that contains LF: Most insect repellents sold over the the Lyme bacteria. Also, you don’t want to bring counter and approved by the EPA are quite a match near the tick. That can cause you to burn Send them to effective at preventing bites by mosquiyourself or your child. ideas@kidsvt.com. toes, ticks, fleas and blackflies. However, KVT: How should parents treat insect bites? they have no effect on stinging insects, LF: You want to reduce the pain, discomfort, swelling and such as bees and wasps. The most common repellents are itch. To reduce pain and swelling, particularly with stings, use those containing the chemical DEET. an ice pack for at least 15 minutes every few hours. You also KVT: Are there concerns about using DEET? want to wash all bites and stings with soap and water. Some LF: Oh, yes. But if used sparingly, and not around the mouth, get infected because kids scratch them and open the skin, eyes or hands — because kids put their hands in their mouth allowing bacteria in. To reduce itching, parents can use an — it’s unlikely that using DEET will result in the toxicity we over-the-counter antihistamine, as well as a drying agent, such see with this chemical. When it’s used in excess and sprayed as calamine lotion. But parents should avoid drying agents that repeatedly, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including also contain an antihistamine if they’re using oral antihistanausea, vomiting and, most concerning, convulsions, changes mines. That can result in increased drowsiness. in mental status and potential damage to the brain.

KVT: And bee stings?

KVT: How often can DEET be applied?

LF: Some people use a combination of one part meat tenderLF: It shouldn’t be reapplied more frequently than every eight izer to four parts water. Put it on a cotton ball and rub the area to 12 hours, and no more than twice a day. Parents can around the bite for 15 to 20 minutes. To treat pain, acetaminospray it on their hands and then apply it to a child’s phen is ideal. Ibuprofen can also be used sparingly and is cheek and forehead, and behind the ears — parents good for reducing swelling and discomfort. should wash their hands, afterward to avoid KVT: What red flags should parents watch for? contact with their own mouth or eyes.

LF: If a child has numbness or tingling around the bite, KVT: What’s the difference between a bite and any sweating, rash, itching or hives, or develops wheezing a sting? or difficulty breathing or swallowing, that is a medical LF: The insects that have stingers are primarily bees emergency and you should seek medical attention ASAP. and wasps. The insects that bite are primarily mos— KEN PICARD quitoes and flies. All cause some redness and mild swelling. In about 10 percent of bee and wasp stings, Ken Picard is a staff writer at Seven Days. children may have a more severe allergic reaction. A

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KIDS VT

JULY 2011

KIDSVT.COM

Got questions for Dr. First?

He lives with his wife and daughter in Colchester.

EAT. LEARN. PLAY. Q FIT FAMILIES

B y K ate La ddiso n

Trekking Tips Josh Kaufmann

Q The Librarian Likes

Librarian: Amanda Perry, Library Director, Winooski Memorial Library Book: Pouch! by David Ezra Stein

Swap your diaper bag for a backpack and fill ’er up.

Age Range: birth to 5

Flying down the flats at Hard’Ack recreation area in St. Albans.

Where to go: Find lots of family-friendly hikes in this month’s installment of the Vermont Day-cation series, which starts on page 20. Use the Local Motion Trail Finder to find more, at trailfinder.info.

For more great kid-hiking tips, visit the “Learn” section of the REI website, at rei.com/learn.

Check out regular trail running and hiking sessions through the Catamount Outdoor Family Center and the Stowe Trail Race Series.

Or, contact your local recreation department for trail-running and hiking events.

Why kids love it: This story is a great read-a-loud.

Children anticipate Joey’s cry of “pouch!” and are reassured by the comfort his mother provides.

Web bonus: Stein’s website offers a fascinating step-by-step series of images showing the process behind creating Pouch!, including his brainstorms, early sketches and illustration choices, at davidezra. com/makingofpouch.html. And, if you like Pouch!, check out the author-illustrator’s Interrupting Chicken, which received a 2011 Caldecott Honor. K — Kate laddison

K

11

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

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

Kids VT

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

july 2011

you to find. Learn how and where to look at geocaching. com.

And remember that, with a little preparation, time spent on the trail can be both exercise and an adventure.

Perry’s summary: As baby kangaroo Joey begins to explore his world, his first experiences with bees, birds and a rabbit are surprising. After meeting them, he returns to his mother, crying, “Pouch!”

When he first meets another baby kangaroo, he is scared again, until he realizes the other joey is also afraid.

They become fast friends. The two explore together, independently, but with their moms watching.

kidsvt.com

Getting your kids out on a trail can be both rewarding and fun, but as any experienced parent-hiker knows, it’s no walk in the park. Whether you’re taking the tykes on a short trek or climbing a mountain with them in tow, you need to prepare differently than you would if you were going alone. Here, then, are a few tips.

First of all, don’t call it hiking. Hiking sounds like work (even to me), and if you want to engage a child’s mind, a little color helps. If you’re bringing your kids, call it an adventure, an exploration, a race, or a search for lost treasures, princesses, superheroes, etc.

On a recent weeknight, my friend Dawn and I “raced” at the Hard’Ack recreation area in St. Albans. The rec department sponsors a trail-running series on Tuesday nights with a 1k run for kids. This was the carrot for my 3-year-old, Oliver. I have no idea where he gets his competitive streak (heh heh), but he’s always up for a contest.

Dawn left her two daughters at home that evening, but normally when we go walking, we juggle two strollers, three kids and a frisky Doberman pinscher.

This has led to a number of entanglements, trips, falls and walks cut short.

Thus my next bit of advice: Start with a short hike, close to home, and set your expectations low. The bigger the plan, the harder the fall. Hard’ack and the adjoining Aldis Hill Park are perfect for my family. They’re near enough to home to avoid potty disasters, and the many trail loops allow for a 15-minute walk or an afternoonlong expedition.

So, off Dawn and I went, occasionally pushing Oliver in a stroller up steep inclines and down tree-rooted shady pathways, sweating profusely through clouds of mosquitoes. Bit of advice number three: You cannot overprepare. My personal must-packs? Bug spray, snacks, drinks, tissues, sunscreen, wet wipes, and a multipurpose garbage bag for dirty clothes or trash. Swap your diaper bag for a backpack and fill ’er up.

Unfortunately, we didn’t connect with the trail runners in time for the race, but we forged onward anyway, Oliver scouting for the runners’ trail. He never found it, but he did notice many of the faint paths laced through Aldis Hill Park, including the one to the lookout, which we took. Aldis Hill offers a spectacular view of St. Albans, the bay, Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. That kind of concrete goal at the end of a hike is great for kids.

Of course, when you’re hiking, good equipment helps.

Sturdy shoes, a three-wheeled stroller, hiking backpack and kid carriers are all nice to have. But some of the smartest planning is kid-centric. If you’ve got an explorer, get him or her to help make a map before you go, or as you go. If you’ve got a scientist, collect some creepy-crawlies along the way. Or try geocaching, in which you use a GPS or a smartphone to search for “caches” others have left for

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SERVES 4

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Hints/Suggestions This recipe works just as well with pork, chicken or turkey cutlets.

AS WARM WEATHER returns, I like to cook a little lighter, and fish cooked well fits that bill. I remember my mother’s preparations of fish or other cutlets for frying — one bowl for dredging the cutlet in flour, one bowl for dipping each piece in an egg wash and a final bowl for coating it in bread crumbs. Each cutlet would be quickly browned in butter and then baked until cooked through. The result was a crispy, delicious treat, perfect for cold weather, but not something I’d prepare in summer.

I used the same technique for years until I found several methods that are less messy, and less fatty. The one described below is my favorite. The result is more delicate than with the three-dip method above, perfect for a healthy summer meal.

Mild-flavored tilapia is ideal for kids who typically don’t like fish. Add a bright green vegetable and a potato or pasta salad, and this could become one of your favorite family meals.

CRISPY TILAPIA

4 tilapia fillets 1 ½ cups bread crumbs, plain or Italian style — don’t use fresh bread crumbs because they may not brown and crisp enough ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) ¼ teaspoon pepper (adjust to taste) 2 tablespoons mayonnaise for coating (low or no-fat is fine) 1-2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil lemon wedges or ranch dressing

KIDS VT

JULY 2011 KIDSVT.COM

1. Place the fish on a clean surface and pat dry with a paper towel.

2. Place the bread crumbs, salt and pepper in a small, wide bowl and toss to combine.

3. Brush each piece of fish with a light coating of mayonnaise and place in the bread crumbs, turning to cover both sides, and pressing lightly to get the crumbs to adhere.

4. Heat a 10-12-inch skillet over medium to high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable or olive oil, tilting the pan to coat. Place the fish in the pan, cooking until browned, about 2 minutes, and carefully turn each piece over. If the pan looks too dry, add another tablespoon of oil.

5. Continue cooking until the fish is cooked through, about 2 or 3 more minutes on the second side. Serve with lemon wedges or ranch dressing.

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Kristina Creighton is a former restaurant owner and the author of Kristina’s Kitchen Cookbook and The Practical Palate Cookbook. She lives in Granville. k4t-Healthyliving0711.indd 1

6/10/11 9:33 AM

EAT. lEARN. PlAy. JEb WAllACE-bRodEuR

Q oUT To EAT by C hE Ry l hE RRi C k

Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge 1899 Mountain Road, Stowe, 253-4411

iT’s A giVEn ThAT pizzA is going to be a kidpleasing meal. But it’s also gotten a lot more interesting for adults in recent years, as Vermont’s pizzerias have kept pace with changing tastes in ethinic flavors, added dishes to accommodate special diets and intergrated local ingredients. From Burlington’s Leonardo’s and Bite Me to the Mad River Valley’s American Flatbread to West Glover’s Parker Pie Co., creative pizza abounds.

When you get a group of passionate pizza lovers in the same room, Stowe’s Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge nearly always comes up. My boyfriend, Greg, and I packed up my sons, Ethan and Zander, and headed to Stowe to check it out. Zander looked worried. “But will they have toys?” he plaintively asked. We told him that was part of what we were going to find out.

When we arrived at the Mountain Road location, the hostess immediately apologized and explained they were only serving a limited menu because of ongoing kitchen renovations. A two-sided, photocopied sheet listed sandwiches, salads and pizzas.

“No dessert?” I asked. We had promised the boys dessert, and I wanted to be prepared. “No dessert,” she apologetically affirmed.

We were shown to a table in what is normally a small game room, where two other families with children were already seated. All of the tables were preset with paper plates and flatware rolled in paper napkins. The walls were decorated with art prints, including two by Picasso marking the restrooms.

Though the offerings were limited, Piecasso had something for everyone in our group: with glutenfree and vegan options, as well as pizzas named The Tree Hugger, (spinach, basil, tomatoes, garlic and red onion) and Heart Stopper, (red sauce, double cheese, double pepperoni, double sausage). The

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management obviously knows Vermont’s quirky, diverse tastes well.

Our waiter, Jared, was glad to bring us crayons once we asked. That, plus a trip outside to visit Pablo Picowso, the restaurant’s beret-wearing fiberglass cow, kept us busy until food arrived.

Ethan was delighted with his individual 10˝ pineapple and bacon pie ($10, and half of it came home), and Zander had never before had an entire mushroom pizza to himself ($9, with even more left over). Greg chowed down on a Carcass (pizza with red sauce, pepperoni, sausage, ham and meatballs with extra mozzarella), and I had some salad with a side of eggplant parmigiana. It was delicious, but I would have liked the eggplant sliced just a bit thicker, since it was hard to discern inside its crispy coating.

After we were done and had leftovers packed up, Jared steered us back to Stowe’s Main Street to check out I.C. Scoops for ice cream. It was a nice stop, but we promised ourselves that next time we made the trip, we’d save room for Piecasso’s cannoli and Lemony Snicket Cake. And, given how much we enjoyed the food, that’s sure to be soon. K

noTE: Renovations should be finished by the end of June, resulting in a more efficient kitchen for the cooks and more dining room seating. The full menu includes appetizers such as chicken wings and calamari, pasta entrées, nightly specials, and desserts.

FAmily-FRiEndly AmEniTiEs: high chairs and booster seats; changing tables in the restrooms; seasonal patio seating, crayons and “draw your own pizza” space on the kids’ menu; a fiberglass cow named pablo picowso to visit outside while you wait and a game room with video games for older kids and teens. Right across the mountain Road from the stowe Recreation path: Work up an appetite first or work off the guilt after. oUR bill FoR FoUR: $65, including tip.

Cheryl Herrick is a writer and blogger who lives in Burlington with her two young sons. Visit crankycakes.com for more of her adventures in food and mom life.

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In elementary school, our daughter and her classmates were asked to share stories about family. When she described a very sensitive family event — the passing of an older sibling — her teacher questioned the veracity of her story. The questioning of her honesty by a previously trusted adult was devastating for her.

After a day or two, our daughter tearfully spoke to us about what happened. Since the adults in her life had always emphasized the importance of being honest, our daughter was bewildered, and saddened, by this experience. A conversation ensued with the teacher. She admitted questioning our daughter’s story, attributing it to a young child’s fantasy.

After making a plan with the teacher to rectify the situation, we moved on to numerous follow-up talks with our daughter. In an interesting twist, these talks often came back to the challenges of telling the truth, even when the truth seems glaringly apparent in both your head and your heart. The notion that honesty and 10:19 AMtruth trump all else was not the message learned by our daughter in this particular experience. She did, however, learn the power of sharing her story with other trusted adults, seeing them advocate on her behalf and witnessing an adult take ownership of a misguided step.

miKe Fonner, wAshingTon, luTherAn PAsTor/TeAcher Children: son, Zach, 28; daughters Jessica, 26, and Sophie, 22

When our son, Zach, was in eighth grade, he had one of those typical 10-point quizzes in his science class.

He got it back with a perfect score.

The classroom practice was for the teacher to go over the quizzes, and when the teacher did this, Zach realized that one of his answers was wrong, but the teacher hadn’t marked it wrong. He wasn’t sure what to do.

He didn’t do anything in the classroom, but he asked Leslie [my wife] and me about it. He had this interesting logic: The teacher made the mistake, so why should he have to pay for that?

My point about telling the truth has always been that, at the end of the day, you have to be able to live with yourself — the notion of personal integrity. Zach did go to the teacher and explain the situation. The teacher took the quiz from him, put a -1 on top, changed Zach’s mark to a 9 and then wrote “+1 for honesty.” The teacher handed the quiz back and said, “Congratulations, you got a perfect score.” This validated Zach’s thinking about the importance of telling the truth and the idea that telling the truth ... leads to its own rewards.

5/23/11 11:30 AM

Children: sons Harrison, 12, and Teddy, 9 One of the lines I keep repeating is, “Honesty is the best policy, even if it hurts.” I also tell my sons, “Look, guys, if you don’t tell me the truth, I can’t help you out of a difficult situation.”

I’ve sometimes told them a story from my dad’s childhood. When he and his two brothers were young, their mother bought them black Oxford shoes. I guess my dad scuffed his up pretty badly. He asked his older brother about it, and his brother told him to take a match, light it, blow it out and rub the burnt end on the scuff marks. So my father went into his closet and closed the door. He came down a few moments later, saying the closet was on fire. He and my uncle discussed whether they should tell anyone about it. Long and short of it — the house burned down.

I use this as an example of when it’s better to tell the truth right away. [My wife and I] haven’t had any problems, mainly because we played the heavy card early — letting our sons know what we expect from them — just like my parents did.

c.r. wood, FAirFAx, high school hisTory TeAcher

Children: daughters Charlotte, 7, and Adeline, 4 My 4-year-old daughter has an active imagination and makes up stories on practically a daily basis. They’re very detailed. On numerous occasions, my wife and I have asked her caregiver or preschool teacher about specific events she told us about, only to find out these things never occurred.

It is pretty innocuous at this point, but there have been times we have wondered if we should take it more seriously. On the few occasions when we have questioned a story we knew was improbable, she has been so adamant that the events transpired that we just chalked it up to a healthy imagination and let it be. We figure she will grow out of it, which actually strikes us as kind of sad because we appreciate her creativity.

Of course, if the storytelling continues, and someday her stories are a cover to get her out of trouble for one reason or another, we’ll have to put the brakes on. In the meantime, we just hope she puts her skills to good use and maybe becomes a successful fiction writer some day. K — IntervIews compIled by erIk esckIlsen “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. Erik Esckilsen is a freelance writer and Champlain College instructor. He lives in Burlington with his wife and twin daughters, and their dog.

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sTuff you’ll need a Trombone

carter suggests finding a beginner trombone through ellis music (ellismusic. com) or musicraft (musicraftvt.com), two Vermont companies that rent instruments. check to make sure the slide is not impeded, and that when you blow into the instrument, you can blow freely. “sometimes you’ll get an instrument that is kind of stuffy,” he cautions. He also advises avoiding trombones with dents in the bell.

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carter recommends players use trombone-specific lubricants, rather than the oil k8v-PetfoodWarehouse0711.indd that typically greases other instruments. “it makes a huge difference,” he says. “i once had a kid try it out for the first time, and as i said, ‘be careful, the slide moves faster once you put that on,’ the slide flew off and landed across the room.”

music

6/23/11 11:56 AM

Kids VT

“Kids should get records and listen to good players,” says carter. His suggestions: albums by Trombone shorty (recently featured in the Hbo series “Treme”), jazz trombonist John allred and classical soloist christian lindberg.

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july 2011

15

Dan Bolles is the music editor at Seven Days

exp. 7/31/11

KidsVT.com

Q: How many Trombone players does iT TaKe To cHange a ligHTbulb?

A: Only one. But he takes an hour deciding which position to use.

Get it? If not, chances are you are not a trombone player. The brass instrument, ubiquitous in summer parade marching bands, attracts a very specific type of musician: funny ones.

“Most trombone players that I’ve met have a good sense of humor,” says trombone teacher Stuart Carter — corny lightbulb jokes notwithstanding, presumably.

Carter, 57, owns and operates Octavemode, a Burlington-based music school that offers a variety of horn lessons both in studio and online via Skype. He started playing at age 5 and began teaching trombone after graduating with a master’s degree from the Eastman School of Music in 1982.

He says the trombone’s unusual design offers students a unique challenge compared to other wind instruments.

“It’s a good instrument for a student because it has the slide,” he says. “It’s a tenor instrument. But it is also very melodic and expressive.” He adds that trombone is a utility instrument, too.

“It can be used to complement, or for special effects,” he continues. “You have to have or develop a good ear to play the trombone.”

It also requires precision. There are seven slide positions on a trombone, each of which can produce roughly eight notes — get the joke now? Finding the right position on the slide is of paramount importance. Miss the mark and you’ll be off key.

How a player blows into the instrument is also crucial. Carter notes that the ability to do so correctly can reveal the musical talents of a young player.

He adds that the slide lends itself to a variety of articulations unique to the trombone — think swoops and falls in jazz and funk, or shakes and trills in orchestral music.

“The trombone is a great instrument to bring natural musicianship out in a person,” he says. “And that makes it a lot of fun to play.”K

LOOK CLOSER…

IT’S TIME TO DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW!

kidsvt.com

There are tons of fun family activities described in the pages of Kids VT.

July 2011

ATTENTION CLASS INSTRUCTORS AND CAMP ORGANIZERS!

16

Kids VT

List your class or camp in Kids VT for only $15/month! Submit the listing by the 15th at kidsvt.com or email classes@kidsvt.com

Look for a growing “Classes & Camps” section (p. 49) in our popular calendar pages!

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6/24/11 10:14 AM

KITES

Send It Soaring

Artists young and old take to the sky for a creative kite exhibit

KITE-FLYING BASICS

B Y M E G A N JAMES

THERE ARE THREE DIFFERENT KINDS OF KITES: • flat • bowed • box

THE BEST PLACE TO FLY A KITE: open spaces, MATTHEW THORSEN

Nico and Meredith Hochanadel

creature made from plastic shopping bags that have been quilted together and stuffed with more bags.

Jager adorned his own massive box kites at the gallery, called “Ask the Angels,” with the faces of the writer William S. Burroughs and the late Clash frontman, Joe Strummer. But one of his biggest heroes, the one who Jager says inspired the kite project, is Sister Mary Corita Kent, the artist whose serigraphs and silk screens called for peace and love in the 1960s and ’70s. She was also an educator who regularly gathered communities together to create art — always with a message — that they’d later carry through the streets in a parade.

Jager says he wanted to engage the community the way she did. “We understand the importance and power of sharing ideas,” says Jager of his firm.

And if he and his fellow designers could also inspire people to get outside and create something of their own, all the better.

Making the “thought bombers”

WHAT YOU NEED TO BUILD A KITE:

Sheena Solitaire was happy with simple kite kits she bought from the Drachen Foundation. “But now that I’ve made about 300 of them, I know how you could make [a kite] without a kit,” she says.

Her advice: For sails, you can use tissue paper, wrapping paper, newspaper, trash bags, nylon or Tyvek.

For a flying line, any kind of string can work for a simple kite, but you can buy cotton line, with a handle, at craft stores.

Traditionally, kite frames are made of bamboo. You can get this at craft or garden stores, or cut up window blinds.

You’ll need to learn some knots so you can tie a line to your kite. The Drachen Foundation website has awesome animated tutorials that will show you how.

Once you have your materials, you can look at other kites and experiment with different shapes and styles. Go wild!

KIDS VT

17

SEND IT SOARING, P. 19 »

15 miles per hour, which, according to the Beaufort wind scale, is the kind that makes leaves and branches move gently and flags flap softly.

JULY 2011

Once you learn the components that enable a kite to fly — a sail to catch the wind, a tether to keep it from flying away and a bridle line to adjust the angle at which it faces the wind — it’s pretty easy to experiment and build your own. Or you can buy a kit. That’s the route Sheena Solitaire, former curator of gallery education at the BCA Center, chose for the classes she coordinated at Burlington’s Sustainability and Integrated Arts academies in April and May; Solitaire moved to Texas shortly after finishing the project.

“I’d never made a kite before,” she says, so she “seriously scoured the Internet,” and discovered the

THE BEST WEATHER FOR KITE FLYING: steady wind at about eight to

KIDSVT.COM

“IF YOU COULD FLY A MESSAGE UP TO THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD YOU SHARE?” That’s the question that inspired “Thought Bombers,” an exhibit of handmade kites crafted by professional designers and Vermont students on view this summer at the BCA Center in Burlington.

The notion, says designer Michael Jager, was that “instead of dropping bombs, we could drop thoughtful ideas from the sky.”

Jager is a principal in Jager Di Paola Kemp Design, a Burlington firm whose clients include Burton and Sony. Jager first became interested in the concept for this exhibit five years ago. “I imagined these gigantic kites of great people looking down and saying, ‘You can make positive change,’” he says.

When BCA asked Jager and his firm to collaborate on an exhibit this summer, he proposed the kite show, and posed the “message” question to current and former JDK designers.

The resulting creations — inventive, colorful and full of hope — are part of “Thought Bombers.”

Extending far beyond the Church Street gallery, the project included five weeks of kite creation with kids at Burlington elementary schools, as well as a June festival on the waterfront, where young kite makers flew their creations before giving them to BCA to be displayed on the center’s fourth floor. The gallery will host two more kite-making workshops before the exhibit wraps up in August.

Part of the kite show’s thrill is the way it asks viewers to imagine implausible objects soaring through the sky. Brad Cameron’s “Pop Top,” for example, is shaped like a traditional kite but constructed of 797 bottle caps. Craig Winslow II’s “Leech” is a two-tentacled

such as public parks, playing fields and beaches.

Keep away from trees, power lines and tall buildings.

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KIDS VT

JULY 2011

KIDSVT.COM

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5/24/11 11:05 AM

Send It Soaring

contInued from p. 17

Drachen Foundation, a nonprofit kiteeducation resource with simple kits for about a dollar each, plus pretty much everything you ever wanted to know about flying a kite. Solitaire figured the kits would be a good fit for the kindergartners through fifth graders she was working with. Their kites are a little less exotic than those made by the designers, but just as interesting, for different reasons.

as opposed to just drawing a picture.

“At both schools, we focused on the theme of community,” says Solitaire.

“We had each student write down a dream they had for themselves and a dream they had for their community.”

Then they decorated their kite sails with drawings and paintings and wrote out their wishes along the tails.

One kid wrote, “My dream is for people to care about each other and be nice!!” Another wished that “everybody would be friends.” One was more specific: “My dream is for a magician to come to my house.” And another took the opportunity to make a pretty apt reference to Back to the Future: “Where we’re going, we don’t need roads!”

No matter their age, the kids seemed to connect to the project.

“What’s cool about it is, it’s something really tangible that you can do something with, as opposed to just drawing a picture,” Solitaire says.

sheena soLiTaire

Let’s go fly one

What’s cool about it is,

it’s something really tangible that you can do something with,

Leeza Kusmit

6/21/11 11:05 AM

If you’re gonna play, bring a picnic basket.

City Market offers a unique hot and cold bar, a tasty deli, fresh local produce, cold drinks, and meats to grill. Food on the go just got a whole lot tastier and easier. Stop by today to pack your lunch before you head out to play.

k8h-CityMarket0711.indd 1

6/16/11 1:07 PM

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6/23/11 11:02 AM

KidsVT.com July 2011

photoS: matthew thorSen

On the morning of the BCA Center’s kite festival on June 12, the sky looked angry. Dark clouds dumped rain in heavy sheets, and a few early lightning bolts threatened to cancel the event. But the wind was steady, and the lightning quickly passed.

By one o’clock the weather was still terrible, but that didn’t stop a small army of kite-wielding kids — and a few enthusiastic adults — from gathering at a tent on the Burlington waterfront. Some stayed under cover, decorating new kites and running them through the tent. The brave ones shot their kites skyward right into the rain, and many of them succeeded, their smiles growing as their clothes soaked through.

It hasn’t been a great spring for kite flying. But Jager, who still flies kites with his three kids — ages 10, 16 and 20 — says there are ways you can work around poor conditions. You probably won’t be able to lie on the ground while your kite explores the sky, like you can in perfect weather.

But even without wind, Jager says, there’s always the possibility for flight, “if you’re willing to run.”K

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Kids VT

“Thought Bombers,” by Jager Di Paola Kemp Design artists at the BCA Center in Burlington through August 20. “Community Kites” on the fourth floor through August 13. Community kite-making workshops, July 1 and August 5, 5 to 8 p.m., at the BCA Center. Info, 865-7166. burlingtoncityarts.org

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Day- cations VERMONT

PART 2: 10 TRIPS TO EXPLORE

Eden

MOUNTAINS & TRAILS Jeffersonville

Bolton

Groton

Salisbury

Hartford Killington

Wallingford Addison

Each recommendation includes other nearby attractions, as well as an affordable place to get or eat food. For more meal tips, pick up the 2011 edition of 7 Nights: The Seven Days Guide to Vermont Restaurants & Bars, available at more than 1000 locations statewide, or find it at sevennightsvt.com. sevennightsvt.com These lists are not comprehensive, but we hope they’ll inspire you to travel to a part of Vermont you’ve never seen before, to get off the highway and try something new. On a gorgeous summer day, the drive along scenic country roads is part of the fun.

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KIDS VT

JULY 2011

KIDSVT.COM

Manchester

Summer in Vermont is short and oh so sweet.

To help you get the most out of this fleeting season, Kids VT presents a three-part series of recommended summer day trips designed to introduce your family to the rich variety of experiences Vermont has to offer. The June issue of Kids VT featured cultural and historical trips, the July issue focuses on mountains and trails, and the August issue will offer ways to get out on the water. You can find them all as they appear each month on kidsvt.com.

Easypeasy

Middle of the Road

Tough Stuff

VERMONT DAY-CATIONS

Rebecca Crittenden enters the Snake Mountain Wildlife Management Area with her husband, son and dogs.

CALEB KENNA

1. Snake Mountain, Addison

W

as American naturalist John Muir thinking about pint-size hikers when he observed, “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks”?

Outdoor adventure is recommended for people of all ages. But children, in particular, are shaped by their encounters with the natural world.

There are so many good reasons to get kids into the woods, not the least of which is that a strong relationship with nature — established early — is the best guarantee of future interest in protecting the environment.

Soldiering up the steep slope of a mountain is a great aerobic workout and an exercise in goal setting. Luckily, these opportunities are quite literally all around us in Vermont. And they’re mostly free.

KIDS VT

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DAY-CATIONS, P. 22 »

JULY 2011

BY SARA H T UFF

Someone once found a whale skeleton from Food: 3 Squares Café, Lake Great View Vergennes: Order Champlain’s breakfast until 3 p.m. at prehistoric this popular downtown salt-water past on eatery, or go for “creative-casual” lunch its slopes; a mountain-top inn on the site and dinner fare; there’s a kids menu, too. welcomed 19th-century tourists; at the Info, 877-2772, 3squarescafe.com. summit, the foundation of a house never built serves as a flat picnic and photo 2. Lower West Bolton Crag, ledge — not to mention a good storytellBolton ing spot. But the best reason to visit this Rock climbing is a 1287-foot mountain is that it’s a slamgreat equalizer: dunk destination for easy-to-reach Your kids can panoramic western views of quilted probably climb fields and Lake Champlain. The hotelier more ably than you. who built the inn called the mountain “Kids have awesome “Grand View,” and he was right on. Kids strength-to-weight ages 6 and up should be able to handle ratio,” explains Steve Charest, program the 1.8-mile ramble along old carriage director for Burlington’s Petra Cliffs. The roads to the top. climbing center and mountaineering Miles: 3.6, round trip school helps you and your kids enjoy this outdoor activity together during Rock Details: From the junction Climbing Family Climbing Days at Lower West of Routes 17 and 22A in Bolton, a prized Chittenden County Addison, go south on 22A crag. On July 16 and August 20, you for 3 miles and take a left on Wilmarth and your offspring (ages 6 and up) can Road. Follow it to Mountain Road and meet up with instructors in Bolton for a take a left. The trailhead is about 500 short hike to the cliff. A brief course in feet from the intersection, on the left. safety and basics gives way to a day of Nearby: Cool off in the swimming climbing and rappelling way beyond the pool — on the waterslide or in the swing set. fountains — at Button Bay State Park

KIDSVT.COM

The following 10 day-cations will help you and your family enjoy the state’s mountains and trails. These trips will get you climbing Snake Mountain, scrambling up a rock face in Bolton or zipping through the trees on a canopy tour at Smugglers’ Notch.

in Vergennes. The park also has 73 camping sites, including lean-tos and cabins. Info, 475-2377, vtstateparks.com.

Day-cations

CONTINUED FROM P. 21

STINA BOOTH

Miles: N/A — the approach is less than a two-minute walk.

Details: The crag is located on the righthand side of the access road to Bolton Valley Resort. Family Climbing Days cost $160 for parent and child, $50 for each extra child and $60 for each extra adult. Info, 657-3872, petracliffs.com.

Nearby: Take a dip in the Bolton Potholes, a series of natural swimming holes formed by Joiner Brook — find it on the access road to Bolton Valley Resort, but park in the elementary school parking lot below.

VINS KIDSVT.COM

Eye View

Get up close and personal with birds of prey including eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. Activities for all ages.

Bring this ad with you to receive $5 off admission or any retail purchase.

Food: Cupboard Deli, Jeffersonville: Fuel up with homemade doughnuts or creemees and other to-go goodies at this Citgo station and deli. Info, 644-2069.

4. White Rocks Overlook and Ice Beds Trail, Wallingford Yeah, yeah, more ice is the last thing you want to see after such a long winter.

But this place is really, ahem, cool, especially on a hot July day when the rest of Vermont is baking into a soufflé. Not far from Route 7, this easy amble begins at a picnic area and then darts through the woods toward ooh-ahh views of Snow in White Rocks Cliff.

Then come the goose Summer? bumps, from gaping into crevices that preserve snow and ice even in the sweltering summer, offering an instant cold breeze.

Note: This hike is preschooler-friendly, but you’ll want to hang on to their collars at some of the precipitous points.

Where you’re more than just a pretty face to us.

Visit our web-site for m details ab ore out our prog rams & nature camps!

One discount per customer. Cannot be combined with any other discount.

Vermont Institute of Natural Science

KIDS VT

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Food: On the Rise Bakery, Richmond: Pick up baked treats and vegetarian sandwiches — including backpackfriendly PB&Js — starting at 7 a.m.; return later for live music and pizza.

Info, 434-7787, ontherisebakery.net.

Please contact us for program details.

120 Main Street, Burlington 802.862.1670 • urbansalonteam.com

Located on Vermont Rte. 4, west of the Quechee Gorge 6565 Woodstock Rd., Quechee, VT 05059 266551

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Nearby: Smugglers’ Notch has eight heated outdoor pools, four waterslides and a slew of other splash-friendly features at its water park. Info, 800-4194615; smuggs.com.

www.vinsweb.org 802.359.5000

JULY 2011

Nature Center

Details: $99.95 for the three-hour tour, reservations required. Info, 644-9300, arbortrek.com.

Nearby: Fall asleep to the sound of Bingham Falls at Smugglers’ Notch State Park in Stowe, which has a small campground. Info, 253-4014, vtstate parks.com.

Geronimo! This new adventure at Smugglers’ Notch sends families flying along a set of eight zip lines suspended high above the forest floor. The tour is part adrenaline-infused action, part education and all safe, as harnesses and experiZip Line enced guides are with you every whoa! of the way. It opened last winter, but this canopy tour — with 4500 feet of zip lines and two suspension bridges — is particularly thrilling in the summer, when the bright-green foliage

ring Visitors aB Offe ird ’s

Miles: N/A — a shuttle transports riders to and from the starting point.

Nearby: Little River State Park in Waterbury has 81 tent and trailer sites and 20 lean-tos on the shores of Waterbury Reservoir. Info, 244-7103, vtstateparks.com.

3. Zip Line Canopy Tour, Smugglers’ Notch, Jeffersonville

Mary Jane and Paul Oszurek trek along the Long Trail with 10-month-old Ethan in a front-pack and 2-year-old Sophia leading the way.

seems to swallow up riders and platforms alike. Just one hitch: Kids have to be at least 70 pounds to ride.

6/22/11 12:02 PM

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6/22/11 3:06 PM

VERMONT DAY-CATIONS

details: At the junction of Routes 7 and 140 in Wallingford, go east 2.1 miles on Route 140 to Sugar Hill Road, the Green Mountain National Forest Picnic Area and the trailhead.

Nearby: Let the kids wade in Wallingford’s Elfin Lake, which has lifeguards from noon to 5 p.m. $3 entrance fee for adults; $1.50 for ages 2 to 18; children under 2 free. Info, 446-2496, wallingfordvt.com/elfin_lake.htm.

Nearby: Twenty minutes south of Wallingford, the aptly named Emerald Lake State Park in East Dorset has 67 campsites and 37 lean-tos in the former quarry area. Info, 362-1655, vtstateparks.com.

Food: Sal’s South, Wallingford: Find pizza and other Italian classics at this family-friendly eatery. Info, 446-2935.

5. Falls of Lana and Rattlesnake Point, salisbury This spot is no secret — there’s even a Long Island rock band called Falls of Lana — but there’s a reason why everyone knows about it: in a word, waterfalls.

There are a few different trails spidering around the four tiers of tumbling water at the Falls of Lana; you’ll hike less than a half-mile on the Waterfalls easiest trail to the lower-falls viewpoint. From there, it’s another half-mile to the upper falls and the turquoise swimming hole. Note: Footing can be tricky. In August, families can continue on to Rattlesnake Point, closed March 15 to August 1 for peregrine falcon nesting. If the falls seem too freaky for a swim, head to adjacent Lake Dunmore for a dip.

6. The Long Trail and devil’s Gulch, Eden One day, you’ll hike the whole 270-mile Long Trail as a family. Right? For now, however, this small section of the storied footpath — the country’s first long-distance hiking trail — is enough for little feet. Plus, it’s got spooky rock tunnels and caves, bridges, and boulders. The strategy, other than following the white Long Trail blazes, involves pacing.

That’s because the trail to begin with and caves descends ascends on the way back out, just when legs and patience are giving out. So plan to refuel with your trail mix and water at Spruce Ledge Camp, just past the delights of Devil’s Gulch. This close to the Canadian border, you may actually feel as if you’ve come all the way from Massachusetts.

Appearing weekly at Morse Mountain Grille, Smugglers’ Notch.

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AREA’S LARGEST Display of Playsets

miles: 4.8, round trip details: At exit 6 on I-91 North, take a left on Route 58 West and follow for nearly 13 miles. Take a left on Route 100. Follow for 8.7 miles and take a right on Route 118. Drive 4.5 miles to the trailhead.

Nearby: Try out the rope swing at the Green River Reservoir in Hyde Park, then spend the night at the eponymous state park, which has 28 remote campsites that can only be reached by boat.

Info, 888-1349, vtstateparks.com.

Food: Sweet Crunch Bakeshop & Catering Co., Hyde Park: Swing by for Sunday brunch; musicians play from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. most of the summer. Info, 888-4887, sweetcrunch bakeshop.com.

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In 2008, trail workers made history when they details: At the junction of Routes 7 and opened the first 53 in Salisbury, take a left on Route 53 and go 3.5 miles to Branbury State Park. universally The trailhead is near the park. accessible portion of the 2175-mile Nearby: Camp and swim on Lake Appalachian Trail — right here in Dunmore; the private Waterhouses Vermont.

Anyone who uses a wheelchair campground has 71 sites. Info, 352-4433, or stroller can hop on this 900-foot, waterhouses.com. smooth boardwalk over the Food: A&W Drive-In, Ottauquechee River floodplain for Middlebury: Carhops awesome views of the 140-foot on roller skates deliver Wheelchair falls. It’s short, but for anyone rootbeer floats, cheeseAccessible who’s tried to wrestle wheels over burgers and onion rings. rocks and roots, very sweet.

Info, 388-2876.

TIME

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Day-cations

CONTINUED FROM P. 23

Miles: 0.17 miles Details: From the intersection of Routes 100 and 4 in Killington, drive 2 miles east to River Road. Take a left and drive 1.5 miles to a parking lot, and the trailhead, on the left.

Nearby: Sluice off the sweat at the Clarendon Gorge swimming hole, just off Route 7.

Nearby: Killington’s Gifford Woods State Park has four cabins, 22 tent and trailer sites, and 20 lean-tos at the base of Killington and Pico peaks. Info, 775-5354, vtstateparks.com.

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KIDS VT

JULY 2011

KIDSVT.COM

CALEB KENNA

Food: Lookout Bar & Grill, Killington: This après-ski favorite is also a sweet summer spot. Info, 422-5665, lookoutvt. com.

Rebecca and Steve Crittenden stop on the trail to Snake Mountain to make some adjustments for Wyatt.

8. Montpelier-Wells River Rail Trail, Groton Everyone can practice their best train-whistle imitations as they ramble along this former railroad bed.

Though unpaved, it’s stroller friendly, and a winner for wildlife lovers — moose, deer and beavers all roam here. You can begin at Ricker Pond State Park and meander Swimming through Groton State Nearby Forest toward Kettle Pond. One day, you should be able to walk all the way to Burlington, as this is part of the Cross

Vermont Trail, a project that is stitching together an off-road route from the Connecticut River to Lake Champlain.

Miles: 7 Details: From Route 302 in Groton, go 2 miles west, take a right on Route 232 and drive 2 miles to Ricker State Park, where you’ll find the trailhead.

Nearby: Groton’s Stillwater State Park has a swimming beach, 62 tent and trailer sites, and 17 lean-tos. Info, 584-3822, vtstateparks.com.

Food: Upper Valley Grill & General Store, Groton: Egg sandwiches — go for the Snowbird — should satisfy hungry hikers pre- or postexcursion.

Info, 584-3101.

9. Mount Equinox, Manchester Is it cheating if you drive to the top?

Not when you have kids who can barely reach the toilet seat, let alone the top of a 3,848-foot peak. At southern Vermont’s iconic Mount Equinox, the 5.2-mile Skyline Drive wends its way to the Skyline summit of the highest peak in the Taconic Drive Range and toward a slew of easy trails. You’re not allowed to hike on the road, but once you’re at the top, it’s just 0.02 miles to Lookout Rock. For older kids, the

STINA BOOTH

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6/16/11 12:37 PM

Paul Oszurek with 10-month-old Ethan in a front-pack

Burr Burton Trail climbs 4 miles from the town of Manchester.

Miles: 0.04 or 8, round trip Details: Hike up 4-mile Burr Burton Trail from Manchester, or drive up Skyline Drive — $12 for car and driver, $2 for each passenger, children under 12 are free — then take the 0.02 mile trail to Lookout Rock.

Nearby: Hop in the outdoor swimming pool at Dana Thompson Memorial Park in Manchester. Info, 362-1439.

Circus-palooza

Details: Trailhead is behind the Quechee Gorge Visitor’s Center on Route 4.

Nearby: The Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, with more than 40 live avian predators, is just half a mile up the road from the gorge. Info, 359-5000, vinsweb.org.

Food: Up For Breakfast, Manchester: Carbo-load on pancakes and other stick-to-your-ribs fare at this breakfast stop. Info, 362-4204.

Nearby: There are 45 tent and trailer sites and seven lean-tos at Quechee State Park in Hartford. Info, 295-2990, vtstateparks.com.

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday, July 24

Food: Woodstock Farmers’ Market: This year-round dining and shopping destination has just about every type of picnic fare under the sun (closed on Mondays). Info, 457-3658, woodstock farmersmarket.com.

C I R C U S - P A L O O Z A I S A F A M I LY D AY AT S H E L B U R N E M U S E U M S P O N S O R E D B Y :

Vermont residents: $10 admission for adults, $5 for children www.shelburnemuseum.org

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Sarah Tuff writes about health, fitness and outdoor sports from her home in Shelburne — from which she escapes as much as possible to go on adventures with her children, ages 2 and 4.

KIDS VT

with a purchase of $49 or more!

JULY 2011

Find tips on how to prepare for hikes with your kids in this month’s “Fit Families”

KIDSVT.COM

It’s not the Grand Canyon, but this 165-foot gorge sure is a grand canyon — the deepest in Vermont, in fact, formed by glaciers 13,000 years ago. The half-mile hike alongside the gorge is a popular trek. On the way down, wow your wee ones with trivia: A mill here once made uniforms for the Boston Red Sox and New York

Performers, carnival games, aerial acts. Fun for the whole family!

Miles: 1.2, round trip

Nearby: North of Manchester, Lake St. Catherine State Park in Poultney has 50 tent and trailer sites and 11 lean-tos.

Info, 287-9158, vtstateparks.com.

10. Quechee Gorge, Hartford

at Shelburne Museum

Yankees. The mill workers had their own baseball diamond on what is now the state park campground. Find antiques and collectibles — and Curious the Vermont Toy & Train Museum — in Gorge? nearby Quechee Gorge Village.

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IN SEASON

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Food: colorful, sweet, portable and healthy. They’re higher in antioxidants than other fruits, and have lots of vitamin C and fiber. Vermonters began growing highbush, or domesticated, blueberries after 77 falls road, shelburne village Vermonter George Darrow took over the USDA’s blueberry399.2846 breeding program in 1937. Today you can enjoy the fruits of those labors at pick-your-own farms around the state. The season typically starts at the end of July, but differs based on k16t-imogene0611.indd 1 5/18/11k16t-Fusion8020711.indd 9:59 AM geography and weather, so call ahead before you go.

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Adam’s Berry Farm 326 Intervale Road, Burlington, 578-9093 Boutin Family Farm 2495 South Road, Williston, 734-8406 Charlotte Berry Farm Route 7, Charlotte, 425-3652 Covered Bridge Berry Patch 128 River Road, underhill, 899-2818 Isham Family Farm 3515 Oak Hill Road, Williston, 872-1525, ishamfamilyfarm.com Owl’s Head Blueberry Farm 263 Blueberry Farm Road, Richmond, 434-3387, owlsheadfarm.com

Vaillancourt Orchard 651 Kendall Road, Enosburgh, 933-5120

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july 2011

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Got ideas for other “In Season” topics or listings?

Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

Kids VT

Pelkey’s Blueberries 3968 Greenbush Road, Charlotte, 425-3281

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6/20/11 10:58 AM

Submit your August events by July 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

Calendar by Kate Laddison & maryellen apelquist

Big-Top Scoop With 23 years of youthful acrobatics under its canvas, Circus Smirkus isn’t breaking news. But this year’s Frontpage Follies theme attempts to make headlines with juggling paperboys, paparazzi clowns and a wacky weatherman. Circus Smirkus is the nation’s only traveling youth circus with its own tent. Talented troupers ages 11 to 18 twirl, balance, dance and goof around in the red-ringed show.

The cozy seating offers up-close action — the performers sometimes pull kids in from the audience. The show is made up of two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute intermission.

Dress for the temperature and let your kids know that this circus has no animals, but plenty of kid performers. With headquarters in Greensboro and circus camp at Lyndon Institute in Lyndon Center, Circus Smirkus puts kids literally at center stage. More than 20 of its troupers have gone on to perform in professional circuses including Cirque du Soleil and Ringling Bros.

Kids VT

july 2011

kidsvt.com

Circus Smirkus: Wednesday, July 6, through Friday, July 8, noon and 6:30 p.m. shows, Champlain Valley Expo. $20 adults and children 13 and up, $17 children 2 to 12. Other shows in Greensboro, July 3 and August 20 and 21; Brattleboro, July 19 and 20; Killington, August 14 and 15; and Montpelier, August 17 and 18. circussmirkus.org

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Sponsored by:

juLY

calendar

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

1 Friday

Arts

comics club: Doodlers, writers and readers alike have fun with the funnies. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

‘A Year With Frog and Toad’: Teen actors bring local color to the Broadway smash. Wild, witty and energetic, the show offers lots of laughs for kids and adults. Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, Burlington, 2 and 7 p.m. $16 adult, $13 student, $10 child under 7. Info, 863-5966.

Education

Rockinghorse Learning circle: This support group for women is focused on how substances impact children and families. Learn how to nurture yourselves and your families, improve family communication, enhance parenting skills, make healthy friendships and relationships, and develop healthy habits and self-confidence. Childcare provided. Morrisville Congregational Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Preregister. Free. Info, 888-2581.

NEW SECTION!

Classes & Camps 2011 Trad camp: A Gateway to Traditional Tunes, songs & dance: Jul. 25-29, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Location: Memorial Auditorium, Burlington. Info: Young Tradition Vermont, Mark Sustic, 849-6968, mrksustc@together.net, youngtraditionvermont.org. Beginner to advanced tune sessions. New dance and singing sessions. Wide variety of traditions including New England, Irish, Cape Breton, Scottish, Quebecoise, Old Time, Africa, Eastern European and more. Exceptional instructors from the region with extensive performing and teaching backgrounds. Endof-week potluck and showcase at City Hall.

Ages 7-18.

List your class or camp here for only $15/month!

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

Face Painting: Sign up for the summer reading program and get your face painted. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-3:30 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Free. Info, 864-7216.

High school Book Group: Join other high schoolers to discuss plays, graphic novels, novels and short stories. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

2 Saturday

Arts

Arts First: Free art activities for youths. Studio Place Arts, Barre, 1-3:30 p.m. Ages 7-10. Preregister. Free. Info, 479-7069.

‘A Year With Frog and Toad’: See July 1.

Red, White and Blues Festival: Families can spread out a blanket and enjoy a free outdoor concert by four blues artists: Nobby Reed, Lydia Warren, Chris Kelleman and the Dave Keller Band. Kick off your shoes and dance on the lawn, toss a Frisbee, or check out Okemo Mountain Resort activities. Concessions available on site. Okemo Mountain Resort, Ludlow, 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Info, 228-4041. saturday drama club: Come put on a show in three hours. Very Merry Theater, 333, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Ages 6-12. $15 or whatever you can afford. Info, 863-6607.

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THE MONTSH T A W IRE N0

saturday Kids drop-in Art: Drop in any week and create a themed art project. Shelburne Art Center, 10-11:30 a.m. All ages. $12, $10 additional sibling. Info, 985-3648.

Education

shipwreck Tour: There are more than 300 historic shipwrecks at the bottom of Lake Champlain. Take a tour boat to the site of one of those wrecks and go for a simulated dive with a robotic camera to learn the vessel’s dramatic story. Meet at Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Vergennes, 11 a.m. All ages. Preregister. $18 children, $22 adults. Info, 475-2022.

through September 11 The Robot Zoo uses giant robotic animals to demonstrate the complex biomechanics of real animals.

3 Sunday

Arts

‘A Year With Frog and Toad’: See July 1, 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. circus smirkus in Greensboro: See spotlight, page 28.

Open Daily 10-5

Health & Fitness

Family Gym at the Burlington YmcA: See July 1, 10:15 a.m.-noon.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym at the Winooski YmcA: Put a little play in your day with indoor gym time. YMCA, Winooski, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Ages 7 and younger and their parents. Free for Y Family Members, $5 per visit for nonmember families with one child, $8 per visit for nonmember families with multiple children. Info, 862-9622.

Eat With a Beak: Just how do birds eat without teeth? As part of the Sundays for Fledglings series, little ones learn how to answer this question as they hike, explore and investigate with museum staff. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-2:45 p.m. Intended for children in grades 1-4, but all are welcome. Preregister.

Free with admission. Info, 434-2167.

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drumming & dancing: Jeh Kulu presents traditional West African drumming and dancing.

Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 1 p.m. All ages. Info, 223-3338.

Nature & Science

Montshire Museum of Science

July 2011

Book sale Benefit: Thousands of tomes available for children and adults with proceeds to support the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library in Williston. Williston Central School, 4-6 p.m.

Free. Info, 878-4918.

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KidsVT.com

Family Gym at the Burlington YmcA: Put a little play in your day with indoor gym time.

YMCA, Burlington, 10:15-11:30 a.m. Ages 7 and younger and their parents. Free for Y Family Members, $5 per visit for nonmember families with one child, $8 per visit for nonmember families with multiple children. Info, 862-9622.

Library & Books

Exhibition sponsored by:

Library & Books

3/25/11 8:04 AM

4 MONDAY

Fairs & Festivals

Fourth of July Celebrations: Various locations around the region: See spotlight, page 32.

Health & Fitness

Coed Softball Tournament: Celebrate the Fourth by playing in a coed, one-pitch softball tournament. Mayo Events Field, Stowe, noon-6 p.m. All ages. Preregister. $10 per person. Info, 253-6138.

July Fourth Soccer Fest: Show ’em what you’ve got at the this independence day event. Adult and youth divisions for all ages. Mayo Events Field, Stowe, 4-6 p.m. Preregister. $10 per team, $3 per person. Info, 253-6138.

Nature & Science

Scavenger Hunt: Complete a villagewide scavenger hunt and receive a special treat and raffle ticket for another prize. Noyes House Museum, Morrisville, 2:30-5 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 888-7617.

5 TUESDAY

Education

Arts

Exordium Adventure With Mr. K: Children hear stories and examine artifacts from Kurt Valenta’s travels through Europe, Asia and South America. Community Room, Highgate Municipal Building, 10 a.m. Designed for school-age children. Preregister. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Creative Tuesdays: Young artists engage their imaginations with recycled crafts. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. Info, 863-3403.

Time-Travel Tuesdays: Visit the 19th century by doing chores, preparing food, washing laundry, churning butter and playing games from a bygone era. Billings Farm & Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 457-2355.

Craftacular Tuesdays: Creative kids get caught up in low-tech projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Ongoing Playgroups MONDAYS Burlington Early Months Playgroup: A mother-infant group for moms and their first babies during the first few months after birth. Baby massage, lullabies and information sharing.

VNA Family Room, St. Joseph’s School, Burlington, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Winooski Fathers and Children Together: Evening fun and dinner for dads and kids up to first grade. Winooski Community Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

TUESDAYS Alburgh Music and Movement: Get moving and grooving with this playgroup session.

Alburgh Elementary School gym, 12:15-1 p.m.

Every other Tuesday. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Alburgh Playgroup: Children and adult caregivers enjoy lively music and movement.

Alburgh Elementary School, 12:15-1 p.m. Every other Tuesday. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Burlington Family Play: Big Room: Activities for parents and children ages birth-5. Work on your GED or high school diploma, take ESL classes or parenting workshops. Baby Room: Learn about your child’s development, baby signs and baby massage. Sessions run simultaneously. VNA Family Room, St. Joseph’s School, Burlington, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Fathers and Children Together: Evening fun for dads and kids up to first grade.

VNA Family Room, St. Joseph’s School, Burlington, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

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Fletcher Playgroup: Kids come to play and interact with games, toys, arts and crafts, snacks, and resources. Elementary school gym, Fletcher, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 849-9368 or 782-3370.

Georgia Playgroup: Time to kid around in a constructive, fun fashion. Georgia Youth Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Second and fourth Thursday. Ages birth-6 with caregiver. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Hardwick Playgroup: Children get out and play while community parents meet each other. Village Center Hardwick Elementary School, 8:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 652-5138.

Johnson Baby Chat: Playgroup for the youngest members of the community and their caregivers. Socialize while learning about development expectations. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, 10-11:30 a.m. Fourth Tuesday.

Free. Info, 888-3470.

Milton Parent/Child Playgroup: New moms, dads and babies gather to enjoy music, reading, sensory play, and gross and fine motor development. New Life Fellowship Church, Milton, 9:30-11 a.m. Follows school calendar. Ages birth-5. Free. Info, 893-1457.

Winooski Playgroup: Stories, songs and playtime. O’Brien Community Center, Winooski, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Ages birth-5 with caregiver. Free.

Info, 655-1422.

FRIDAYS Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers and Toddlers: Learn about development stages, share with other parents, play, move and have fun.

VNA Family Room, St. Joseph’s School, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 999-5100.

South Hero Playgroup: Free play, crafting and snacks entertain children and their grown-up companions. South Hero Congregational Church, 10-11 a.m.

Info, 527-5426.

Essex Town Hall Playgroup: Community playgroup and circulating toy library. Essex Town Hall, 9-11:30 a.m. Schedule varies, call to confirm. Ages birth-5. Free. Info, 872-9580.

St. Albans Playgroup: Children and their caregivers socialize and play. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, St. Albans, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

Fairfield Summer Playgroup: Meet new friends at the library. Play games, do crafts and listen to stories. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 9:45-11 a.m. Ages birth-6. Free.

Info, 827-3945.

WEDNESDAYS

THURSDAYS

Burlington Family Play at the Ethan Allen Homestead: Indoor and outdoor activities for parents and children ages birth-5 with busing and carpooling from the VNA Family Room. Ethan Allen Homestead, Burlington.

9 a.m.-noon Free. Info, 860-4420, hartwick@ vnacares.org.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: EvoMamas fosters community, support and friendship in the transition between pregnancy and motherhood. Evolution Physical Therapy & Yoga, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Second and fourth Thursday. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Charlotte Summer Playgroup: Get outside to play with friends and enjoy a new group activity each week. Charlotte Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 802-764-5820.

Burlington Family Play: See Tuesdays.

Montgomery Tumble Time: Allow little ones to expend some of their abundant energy. Lots of toys and space to run in the gym, play mat for babies. Montgomery Elementary School, 1011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Burlington Family Play at the Ethan Allen Homestead: See Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

St. Albans MOPS: See Thursdays, 8:45-11 a.m.

First and third Friday.

Georgia Summer Playgroup: Hit the beach for a fun summer playgroup. Georgia Town Beach, 10 a.m.-noon. Rain location: Georgia Youth Center. Ages birth-6 with caregiver.

Free. Info, 527-5426.

SATURDAYS

Enosburg Playgroup: Come to enjoy circle time, free play and a craft. Please bring a snack for your child. American Legion, Enosburg, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 933-6435.

Essex Welcome Baby Playgroup: Connect with other parents and babies. Essex Junction Teen Center, Municipal Building, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 846-7621.

Hinesburg Playgroup for Dads: Evening fun for dads and kids up to first grade. Enjoy food, activities and discussion with other adults.

Annette’s Preschool, Hinesburg, 5-7:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 860-4420.

Isle La Motte Playgroup: Playful activities, social time and games. In the school gym if it rains. Elementary school playground, Isle La Motte, 10-11:30 a.m. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Williston Baby Time Playgroup: Baby play and parent time, too. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.-noon. For infants and toddlers. Info, 878-4918.

Milton Parent/Child Playgroup: See Tuesdays.

Montgomery Infant Playgroup: Play time for the little ones while parents meet and talk.

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

Ages birth-2 and adult caregivers. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Morrisville Baby Chat: Playgroup for the youngest members of the community and their caregivers. Socialize while learning about development expectations. Local specialist in child health available. Congregational Church, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. First Thursday. Free.

Info, 888-3470.

Richmond Welcome Baby Group: Welcome the newest community members with play and socialization. Richmond Free Library, 10 a.m.

Second Thursday. Free. Info, 899-4415.

St. Albans MOPS: Crafts and group play for kids while moms enjoy a speaker. Church of the Rock, St. Albans, 6:30 p.m. First and third Thursday. Free. Ages birth-6. Info, 524-7047.

Fairfax Summer Playgroup: Playground fun for kids and adults, weather permitting. BFA Fairfax Community Playground, 6-7 p.m. Ages birth-5. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Franklin Playgroup: Playgroup begins with a story followed by a snack and projects. Franklin Central School, 10-11 a.m. Second Saturday.

Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 285-6678.

Morrisville Baby Chat: See Thursdays, Lamoille Family Center, Morrisville. Second Saturday.

North Hero Tumble Time: Children and adult caregivers enjoy stations and free play around the gym with a snack provided. North Hero Elementary School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

South Burlington Tots and Tykes Open Gym: Open, unstructured play time for South Burlington families. Chamberlin Gym, South Burlington, 9:30-11 a.m. Ages 1-5 and caregivers. Free. Info, 846-4108.

July calendar Health & Fitness

Kids’ Run at Hard’ack: Lace up and join other runners and walkers for St. Albans Recreation’s weekly trail running series, including a 1K distance for kids each week. There is also an open 5K and a beginner 3K, and walkers are welcome, as well. Hard’ack recreation area, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266. stroller strolling: Rendezvous with the stroller crowd in town and take a walk down the recreation path. Parking lot, Fairfax Community Park, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-1941.

Aug. 17-21, 2011

Orleans Planning County Fair a kids B ,V event?

144th

6 WedneSdAy

Arts

circus smirkus in essex: See spotlight, page 28.

Community

arton

ermont

802-525-3555

cookie decorating: Youth doll up freshly baked sugar cookies with sprinkles, frosting, sugar and nuts. Panadero Bakery, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. All ages. Info, 863-8278.

6 wednesday, p. 32

submit your august events by July 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

www.orleanscountyfair.net

a Blue riBBon Agricultural Fair

List your event for free in the Kids VT monthy calendar.

FREE shows

Rosaire’s Big Cat Encounter Star Family Circus • Banana Derby Pork Chop Revue Comedy Show

Submit your info by the 15th of the month online at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com

PAY-ONE-PRICE ADMISSION INCLUDES ALL RIDES!

NEW DREAMLAND AMUSEMENTS $10 Wed-Thurs/$12 Fri-Sun World Record Cadillac Parade on Wednesday (Bring YOUR Caddy!) • Live Bands on the grounds for your listening enjoyment • Tractor Pull • Horse, Pony & Oxen Pulling • 4-H Exhibits • Cattle, Sheep, Llama, Poultry & Rabbit Competition & Displays • Arts,Crafts & Produce Competition • Antique Exhibits • Maple Sugar House • 4x4 Truck Pull • Adult Beverage Tent w/ Entertainment • Mechanical Bull • Industrial Lane • Youth,Gymkhana & Open Horse Shows • Harness Racing • Demolition Derby • Coin & Pig Scrambles* Children’s Barnyard • NEW interactive Milking Parlor & Cheese Processing Display

Friendly Vendors Selling anything you can imagine & some things you can’t Camper Hookups by the day or week The Nicest Little Agricultural Fair in the Northeast!

calendar

3/25/11k8v-orleansCountyFair0711.indd 8:24 AM 1

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courtesy of shelBurne farms

courtesy of healthy living natural foods market

Flower Children

6 SHOWS UNDER THE BIG TOP

AUGUST 4 7 th

t hur sday, a ug ust 4 t h

6pm

f r i day, a u g ust 5 th

6pm

th

s atur day, a ug ust 6 th

11 am & 6pm

s unday, a ug ust 7th

11am & 6 pm

July 2011

sponsored by

p r esen t ed b y P E R F O R M I N G

A R T S

for tickets: 802.86.FLYNN or www.flynncenter.org

Kids VT

31

FLoweR PoweR: Saturday, July 16, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Shelburne Farms. Ages 4 and up. $12 nonmember parent and child, $7 additional child; $10 member parent and child, $5 additional child. Info, 985-8686. shelburnefarms.org

TECHNOLOGY PARK KidsVT.com

Boost your FLoweR PoweR by getting to know the botanical beauties that grace the grounds of shelburne farms, a 1400-acre working farm and sustainability education center. staff members guide visitors through the formal gardens of this national historic landmark during a two-hour morning stroll, highlighting flowers that represent the full spectrum of the color wheel. flower-inspired educational activities and a surprise, edible treat round out the morning. after the garden tour, be sure to explore the rest of the grounds, including the furry-animal-filled farm barn.

is coming to

k4t-Flynn0711.indd 1

6/23/11 12:05 PM

Wagon Ride Wednesdays: Enjoy a horsedrawn wagon ride around the grounds of the working dairy farm. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 457-2355.

6 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)

Summer Travelers: Each week, take a trip to North Beach for a day of fun in the sun. Or head to Spare Time for bowling if the weather is rainy.

Meet at the concession area and travel together.

Bombardier Park, Milton, noon-4 p.m. All ages.

Preregister. $85 per child for all trips, $15 one trip. Info, 893-4922.

7 THURSDAY

Arts

Education

Kids Cooking Up a Story: Kids gather to read a story and bring it to life through cooking. Kids room, LACE, Barre, 10 a.m. for prekindergartenage children, 5 p.m. for children ages 5-10. $3 suggested donation. Info, 476-4276.

Health & Fitness

Kids Open Gymnastics: Let kids tumble, jump and be active while adults connect with other young families. Sessions are sometimes outdoors and include an opening activity, snack and unstructured time on equipment. River Arts, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. Ages birth-5. $5 for one child, $8 for two children, $10 for three or more. Info, 888-1261.

Library & Books ‘Frankenstein and Friends’: Summer Reading Program Check-In: Experience a comic, monster-filled Very Merry Theatre original musical with themes of friendship and loyalty.

Bring your summer reading log to check in. Battery Park, Burlington, check-in 11:30 a.m.-noon; performance, noon-1 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Free.

Info, 865-7216.

Groove Around the Globe: Move and groove to the rhythms of music from around the world.

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

All ages. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Journey to Africa: Join in the summer reading program fun, sharing African stories and creating African batik linen. Highgate Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. For students entering grade 5 and up.

Free. Info, 868-3970.

Stories From Around the World: Storyteller Peter Burns shares his 20 years of experience telling interactive tales from locations including Central Africa, Japan and England. Municipal Park, Highgate, 11 a.m. All ages. Preregister.

Free. Info, 868-3970.

Travel by Paper Airplane: Take your first vacation of the summer by paper airplane in a friendly contest. South Burlington Community Library, 6-8 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 652-7080.

World Culture Time: Join Girl Scouts for stories and crafts from around the world. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-7:30 p.m. Grades 1-5.

Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956.

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Nature & Science

Falcon Foray: Peregrine falcons, once absent from the East Coast and recently removed from the endangered-species list, are monitored at their breeding sites on sheer cliffs during this youth birding program. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 229-6206.

July Farm Programs for Preschoolers: Get a moooo-ve on with a weekly interactive program that includes a story, hands-on activity and a snack. Each week features a different farm theme, such as “How to Speak Moo” and “Can’t Sleep Without Sheep.” Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 9-10:30 a.m. Designed for preschool-age children. Preregister. $3 members, $5 nonmembers. Fee includes admission.

Info, 457-2355.

Circus Smirkus in Essex: See spotlight, page 28.

Fourth Fanfare The FOURTH OF JULY didn’t become a federal holiday until 1941, but Americans have been celebrating their independence since the Revolutionary War. Independence Day doings were modest in those first days: Patriots cheered when the Declaration of Independence was read; bells were rung; candles were lit. The revolution was in full swing, remember, and full-on revelry had to wait. Fast-forward to present-day America and you’ll still find cheering patriots, ringing bells and lit candles, but you’ll also find parades and pageants, picnics and pie-eating contests, barbecues and baseball games, concerts and, of course, fireworks. Don’t miss the Fourth festivities in your hometown.

• BURLINGTON: Sunday, July 3. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Waterfront Park. Info, 864-0123. enjoyburlington.com • BURLINGTON FIREWORKS TRAIN: Sunday, July 3. Take the train to the fireworks at Burlington’s Waterfront Park. Train picks up in Charlotte at 5:30 p.m.; Shelburne, 6:45 p.m.; South Burlington, 8 p.m. Train departs waterfront (after fireworks) at about 10:30 p.m. $12 per person. Info, 7073530. rails-vt.com • COLCHESTER: Monday, July 4. Parade, concert and fireworks at Bayside Beach, starting at 8:15 a.m. Info, 264-5645. colchestervt.gov • HINESBURG: Sunday and Monday, July 3 and 4. Family activities, barbecue, concert and fireworks. Various locations around town. Events kick off at 6 p.m. Sunday. Info, 482-2096. hinesburg.org • MONTPELIER: Sunday, July 3. Parade at 6 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Info, 223-9604. mdca.org • SHELBURNE: Monday, July 4. Barbeque at United Methodist Church, Shelburne, 9 a.m. Info, 985-3981.

• SHELBURNE FARMS: Monday, July 4. Vermont Symphony Orchestra at Shelburne Farms, 7:30 p.m. (gates open at 5:15). $34 in advance, $38 at the gate; kids under 12 $17 in advance, $21 at the gate. Info, 863-5966. vso.org • ST. ALBANS: Sunday, July 3. Flag ceremony at Collins-Perley Sports Complex, 10 a.m. Info, 524-2444. stalbanschamber.com • STOWE: Monday, July 4. Daylong celebration at Mayo Farm followed by fireworks. Starts at 9 a.m. gostowe.com • WARREN: Monday, July 4. Parade, street dance, music and kids activities.

Info, 496-3409.

• WOODSTOCK: Monday, July 4. An “Old Vermont 4th” at Billings Farm & Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $12 adults, $6 children 5 to 15, $3 children 3 to 4, free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355. billingsfarm.org

Submit your August events by July 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

‘Frankenstein and Friends’: Very Merry Theatre presents a zany, comic, monster-filled hour in its original musical. On the lawn, Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, noon-1 p.m.

Old Brick Church if it rains. All ages. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Community

Mom’s Night Out: Experience a warm welcome from this support group for moms of children with special needs, or any mom needing support.

La Quinta Inn, St. Albans, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 800-800-4005, ext. 201.

Shop on the Green: Market on the Green is under way and chock-full of local veggies, meat and poultry, cheese, eggs, syrup, honey, jams and jellies, flowers, and crafts. Live music. EBT and debit cards accepted. Woodstock Green, 3-6 p.m.

Info, 457-3555.

Summervale: Sample local fare and brave an open mic while the kids take part in relay races, puppet shows and art projects at Kids’ Circus.

Chow down on hearth-baked pizza and other vittles, including a tasting of Vermont greens.

Donate homegrown produce and receive City Market coupons. Calkins Community Barn, Intervale Center, Burlington, 5:30-8:30 p.m. All ages. Preregister for open mic. $5 families, free admission with five-pound produce donation.

Info, 660-0440.

Education

Essex Junction La Leche League Group: Open group for all breast-feeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breast-feeding. First Congregational Church of Essex, 7 p.m. Free.

Info, 310-8951, 899-5490 or 862-6023.

Kids in the Kitchen: Noodle Know-How: Learn to make fresh pasta from scratch in this handson class. After using a traditional Italian pasta machine and cooking up their creations, kids take home noodles and sauce to enjoy with the family. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages (with adult). Preregister. $20 children. Info, 863-2569.

Library & Books

Asia: Indian Sand Art: Learn Indian sand art as the Around the Globe craft series stops in Asia. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m.

Grades 1-5. Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Craft Day: Make a whirligig wind whirler with supplies provided by the library. St. Albans Free Library, 2 p.m. Ages 6 and up. Preregister. Free.

Info, 524-1507.

Williston Teen Club: Fight summer boredom with games, movies, snacks, a book discussion, parties and games. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 12 and up. Free. Info, 878-4918.

8 FRIDAY

Arts

Circus Smirkus in Essex: See spotlight, page 28.

Comics Club: See July 1.

8 FRIDAY, P. 34

JULY CALENDAR

Does your child need extra help with reading, writing or math?

Tutoring for All Ages

Ongoing Story Times 3-5 meet at 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 476-5118.

MONDAYS Bristol Toddler Story Time: Introduce your little one to the library and children’s books with activities and music.

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

Burlington Stories With Megan: Enjoy a fun-filled preschool story time with rhymes, songs and books. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. First and fourth Monday. Ages 2-5. Free.

Info, 865-7216.

Marshfield Story Time: Readaloud tales with a cross-cultural theme catch the ear of youngsters.

Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10 a.m. Ages birth-6. Free.

Info, 426-3581.

Milton Infant Story Time: Little ones enjoy lap time, songs and stories. Milton Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Ages birth-18 months.

Free. Info, 893-4644.

Richmond Pajama Time: Stories with Douglas while decked out in your bedtime best. Richmond Free Library, 6:30-7 p.m. Ages 2-6.

Free. Info, 434-3036.

St. Albans Story Time: Book hounds hear stories, sing songs and play. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages birth-6 and caregivers. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Stowe Monday Morning Story Time: Little lit lovers share stories and songs. Stowe Community Room, Stowe Free Library, 1010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145.

Waterbury Toddlers-n-Twos: Active stories designed for kids ages 18-36 months and their caregivers. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Grand Isle PJ Story Time: Curl up in your PJs with a good book.

Grand Isle Free Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. First Tuesday. Ages birth-6.

Free. Info, 527-5426.

Hinesburg Preschool Story Hour: Drop by for stories, songs and games. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 11 a.m. Ages 3-5 with caregiver. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: Songs, stories and finger plays.

Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 9:30-10 a.m. First and third Tuesday. Ages birth-3. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Lyndonville Baby/Toddler Story Time: Connect with library friends and enjoy stories, songs, storyboards and finger plays. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 10 a.m. Ages birth-3 and caregivers. Free. Info, 626-5475.

Richmond Story Time: Tall tales and simple stories. Richmond Free Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Ages 2-6. Free. Info, 434-3036.

Shelburne Story Time With Webby: Lively readings of children’s books related to the museum collections with new stories offered each week. Shelburne Museum, 10:30-11 a.m. Intended for preschoolers, but all are welcome. Free with admission. Info, 985-3346.

South Burlington Tiny Tots Story Time: Enjoy stories, songs and interactive play stations that foster socialization skills and a love of reading. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m.

Ages 1-3. Free. Preregister. Info, 652-7080.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Mondays.

Williston Summer Story Hour: Stories and a craft entertain young readers. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. All ages.

Free. Info, 878-4918.

Barre Children’s Story Hour: Tots tune in for audible prose.

Aldrich Public Library, Barre, 10:30 a.m. Ages 2-5. Free. Info, 476-7550.

Lyndonville Preschool Story Time: Enjoy stories, the letter of the day, a focus on one of the six early literacy skills each week, songs, crafts and friends. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3-5 and families. Free.

Info, 626-5475.

Swanton Story Hour: Come listen to stories and songs, and do an easy craft. Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. All ages. Free.

Info, 868-7656.

Waterbury Baby Lap Time: Story time designed for babies birth to 18 months with songs, simple rhymes and stories. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Mondays.

THURSDAYS Barre Kids Story Hour: Snacks and activities follow an hour of tales. LACE, Barre, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 476-4276.

Bristol Preschool Story Time: Explore early literacy skills with reading, music, movement and projects. Lawrence Memorial Library, Bristol, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 453-2366.

Fairfax PJ Story Time: Enjoy a bedtime story at the library with other little lit lovers. Fairfax Community Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 802-527-5426.

Vergennes Story Time: Themed stories with American Sign Language and an activity. Bixby Library, Vergennes, 10:30 a.m.

Preschool ages. Free. Info, 877-2211.

www.SunglowLiteracyConsulting.com

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Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Mondays.

FRIDAYS Lincoln Children’s Story Time: Songs, crafts and other activities for children. Lincoln Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages birth-5.

Free. Info, 453-2665.

Milton Toddler Story Time: Toddlers tackle tall tales and enjoy songs and crafts. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Ages 18 months-3 years. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Early Childhood Programs designed specifically for the developmental needs of children.

Monday - Friday 7:00 am to 5:30 pm for children ages 6 weeks - Pre-K Full-time and part-time openings Richmond 434-3891

Montgomery Tumble Time: Allow little ones to expend some of their abundant energy. Lots of toys and space to run in the gym, play PlaycareED Apr10.indd 1 mat for babies. Montgomery Recreation Center, 10-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

Berlin 229-2869

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South Burlington Preschool Story Hour: Stories and activities focus on developing early literacy skills and preparing preschoolers to read. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3-5.

Preregister. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Waterbury Preschool Story Time: A time for great stories, puppets and fun songs. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Ages 3-6.

Free. Info, 244-7036.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Mondays.

SATURDAYS

Franklin Story Time: Preschool story time filled with fun crafts, silly songs and stories. Haston Library, Franklin, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 285-6505.

Burlington Story Time for Kids: Weekly time to listen to favorite and new stories. Borders Books & Music, Burlington, 11 a.m. All ages.

Free. Info, 865-2711.

Middlebury Preschool Story Hour: Stories, songs, rhymes and a craft. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Follows school calendar. Ages 3 and up. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Colchester Saturday Stories: Children of all ages enjoy great picture books. Burnham Library, Colchester, 10-10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 878-0313.

Shelburne Story Time With Mary Catherine Jones: The musician and storyteller brings stories, songs and rhymes to the Pierson Library, Shelburne, 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Free. Info, 985-5124.

879-0898

St. Albans Story Time: See Mondays.

12/13/10 6:05 PM

Small Boat Festival July 9-10 Duct Tape Regatta Step aboard a tugboat!

Basic Kayaking

New! Summer Kids Programs for ages 6-14 Skin Diver Sailor Arts Colonial Crafts On-Water Ecology

Shelburne Teddy Bear Story Time: See Wednesdays.

South Burlington Saturday Story Time: Staff read newly released books that will resonate with children up to grade 2. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 11 a.m.

Free. Info, 864-8001.

Open Daily 10am-5pm

(802) 475-2022

www.lcmm.org

33

Barre Kids Story Hour: Literature hounds show up for tall tales.

East Barre Branch Library, Barre, kids under 3 meet at 10 a.m., ages

South Burlington Story Time: Staff read newly released board books and old favorites. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 10 a.m.

Ages 1-3. Free. Info, 864-8001.

Bridging literacy one word at a time...

KIDS VT

WEDNESDAYS

Shelburne Teddy Bear Story Time: A bear-y good time with books and stories. Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Shelburne, 11 a.m.

Ages 3-5. Free. Info, 985-1643.

Sunglow Literacy Consulting

JULY 2011

TUESDAYS

Richford PJ Story Time: Get ready for bed and books: Dress up for a story in your bedtime best.

Arvin A. Brown Library, Richford, 5:30-6:30 p.m., first Wednesday each month. Ages birth-6 and adult caregivers. Free. Info, 527-5426.

South Burlington Baby Story Time: Infants are introduced to the wonders of language with nursery rhymes, songs, finger plays and board books. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. For children who are not yet walking. Preregister. Free. Info, 652-7080.

KIDSVT.COM

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: Early readers get together for group book time; snack and juice provided. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Ages 1-7. Free. Info, 764-1810.

East Middlebury Preschool Story Hour: Kids get silly with stories and songs. Sara Partridge Library, East Middlebury, 10:30-11 a.m. Follows school calendar. Ages birth-5 with caregiver. Free.

Info, 388-7588.

Middlebury Stories With Shoopie and Lily: Read to a Therapy Dog. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4-5 p.m. Preregister. Free. Info, 388-4097.

8 FRIDAY (CONTINUED)

Community

Bear Picnic: An afternoon picnic filled with fun and games. Bring your own lunch and join the festivities. Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Shelburne, noon-2 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 985-1643.

Build a Kite: Master builder Jon Hosford teaches kids to make their own kites to take home.

Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 1 p.m.

Ages 7 and up. 223-3338.

Jeh Kulu African Drummers: Find your rhythm with energetic drum troupe Jeh Kulu. Franklin Town Hall, 4 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym at the Burlington YMCA: See July 1.

Arts

Army Band in Concert: Vermont’s 40th Army Band headlines this concert featuring toe-tapping tunes for the whole family, from big band to rock. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 5 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 865-4556.

Arts First: See July 2.

Draw Comics: Draw on the expertise of a local comic artist and learn to artfully illustrate your storylines. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Ages 8 and up. Free. Info, 865-7216.

12 TUESDAY

SHELBURNE MUSEUM

Arts

The following exhibits at the Shelburne Museum run through October. Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Info, 985-3346.

Craftacular Tuesdays: See July 5.

Creative Tuesdays: See July 5.

A Passion for Quilts: Joan Lintault Collects: Quilts collected and made by one of the pioneering art quilt makers. Featuring contemporary quilts by Joan Lintault along with 26 newly acquired quilts.

Education Brattleboro La Leche League Newborn Group: Open group for breast-feeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breast-feeding.

Kids PLAYce, Brattleboro, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 257-5648 or 254-5264.

Lock, Stock and Barrel: The Terry Tyler Collection of Vermont Firearms: A rare collection of 106 Vermont firearms, made from 1790 through 1900, recently acquired by Shelburne Museum.

Paperwork in 3D: Ingenious work by 23 contemporary artists who transform flat sheets of paper into amazing three-dimensional art.

Hunter Safety Course: Safety class led by a certified volunteer instructor from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Community Room, Highgate Municipal Building, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Preregister. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Walking Tour: Full Steam Ahead: Discover the restored 1906 steamboat Ticonderoga as it existed in 1923. Daily at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Saturday Kids Drop-In Art: See July 2.

Wildlife specialists lead hands-on education programs year round at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in Quechee. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 359-5000.

Time-Travel Tuesdays: See July 5.

Through the Eyes of Raptors: Explore the natural world through the eyes of raptors and be amazed by these efficient predators.

Bird programs cover the mechanics of flight, seasonal migration and conservation issues. 11 to 11:30 a.m. All ages.

Kids Run at Hard’ack: See July 5.

Nature & Science

Family Day at Maritime Museum: Join Vermont Public Television and spend quality time with Clifford the Big Red Dog. Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Vergennes, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

All ages. Free admission with VPT Family Club membership. Info, 654-3665.

Up, Up and Away: Experiment with physics and explore how things move through the air during Super Science Day. Make a kite and capture the power of air by building gliders, rockets and parachutes. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.

Raptors Up Close: Explore the fascinating lives of birds. Learn how hundreds of birds are rehabilitated each year and the fundamentals of how raptors are trained. Touchable artifacts and hands-on materials. 1:30 to 2 p.m. All ages.

10 SUNDAY

Arts

Crafty Second Saturdays: Drop in to this open session and complete a craft activity relating to an event in Vermont history. Snelling Room, Vermont History Museum, Montpelier, 1-3 p.m.

All ages. Free with admission. Info, 479-8519.

Woodstock 250th Anniversary Festival: Commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the town of Woodstock with a free picnic.

Enjoy live entertainment from the comfort of your own blanket or lawn chair, hear presentations on Woodstock history, take wagon rides, and play games. Bring your own picnic or purchase a grilled chicken dinner and other fare from the Woodstock Fire Department. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 4-7 p.m. All ages.

Free. Info, 457-3555.

Community

Champ’s Challenge For Cystic Fibrosis: A fun

fundraiser for the whole family with a sevenmile or 40-mile ride along safe, scenic routes.

Trips culminate with a barbecue, raffle and door prizes. Win a new bike, Red Sox tickets or a pair of plane tickets. All funds help provide recreation grants for people with Cystic Fibrosis. Basin Harbor Road, Vergennes, 9-3 p.m. for 40-mile ride, 11-3 p.m. for seven-mile ride. Ages 6-90. Preregister. $50. Info, brian@cflf.org.

Fairs & Festivals

Small-Boat Festival: See July 9; challenge race at 10 a.m.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym at the Burlington YMCA: See July 1, 10:15 a.m.-noon.

Library & Books

Amazing Race Week: Stop by the library during regular hours and try the Amazing Race, a scavenger hunt with a literary twist. Winners

Health & Fitness

Stroller Strolling: See July 5.

KIT HOOD COURTESY OF VINS

Small-Boat Festival: Enjoy a lake-friendly family event with longboat and kayak trials, a duct-tape regatta, and exhibits from Antique Outboard Motors and Tugboat. Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Vergennes, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free with admission. Info, 475-2022.

KIDSVT.COM

Arts

VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE

Go Dog Go Festival: Give a whistle and call your four-legged friends to attend a furry, fun festival with activities for pets and owners. Enjoy raffles, games, balloons, face painting and music along with dog washes, pet massages and nail clipping.

Hot dogs, tofu pups, drinks and treats will be available as well as pet parking for shoppers. A pet photo contest kicks off the festival. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 863-2569.

JULY 2011

11 MONDAY

Saturday Drama Club: See July 2.

Fairs & Festivals

KIDS VT

Bug Walk: Details to be announced. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10:30 a.m-1 p.m.

Info, 434-2167.

The Child in Art: The universal experience of childhood becomes apparent in this exhibit’s overarching themes: innocence, protection, play and work. See depictions of children from cultures as different as 18th-century China and 20th-century America. Wolcott Gallery, Fleming Museum, University of Vermont, Burlington. Exhibit runs until September 2. Open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 656-0750.

Robot Zoo: A nationally touring exhibit that allows visitors to interact with complex mechanical animals. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich. Exhibit runs until September 11. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $12 adults, $10 children, free for children under 2. Info, 649-3673.

9 SATURDAY

Bugs, Bugs and More Bugs: As part of the Sundays for Fledglings series, little ones investigate insect life as they hike and explore with museum staff. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-2:45 p.m. Intended for children in grades 1-4, but all are welcome. Preregister. Free with admission. Info, 434-2167.

FLEMING MUSEUM

Kids Open Gymnastics: See July 6.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: Matthew Witten performs songs about our world and tells stories. Sing along and move to the rhythm.

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

All ages. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Nature & Science

Glow: Living Lights: Explore bioluminescence with this exhibit that features light-up creatures including fireflies, glow worms and angler fish. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $12.50 adults, $10.50 seniors and students, $9.50 children ages 3 to 17, free for toddlers and members. Info, 877-324-6386.

Family Gym at the Winooski YMCA: See July 1.

High School Book Group: See July 1.

announced July 15. St. Albans Free Library.

Ages 6 and up. Free. Info, 524-1507.

ECHO LAKE AQUARIUM AND SCIENCE CENTER

MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE

Library & Books

34

Ongoing Exhibits

Library & Books

Movie Matinee: Enjoy a movie in the afternoon.

Popcorn and drinks provided. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Nature & Science

What’s Glowing On? Discover the science behind objects that glow and become an expert on all that shines. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11:30 a.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 877-324-6386.

13 WEDNESDAY

Community

Cookie Decorating: See July 6.

Family Fun Night: Enjoy an evening of free family fun with an obstacle-course event. Activity will be moved inside in the event of poor weather. Highgate Sports Arena, 5-7 p.m. Free.

Info, 868-3970.

Summer Travelers: See July 6.

Education

Burlington La Leche League: Open to all women; bring your questions, babies, older kids! La Leche League lending library available.

Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 9:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 985-8228.

July calendar Kids cooking Up A story: See July 6.

14 Thursday

Health & Fitness

Community

Kids open Gymnastics: See July 6.

Library & Books

Groove Around the Globe: See July 6.

Journey to mexico: Join in the summer reading program fun, taste-testing traditional foods from Mexico. Share tales and create artwork from Mexico. Highgate Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m.

For students entering grade 5 and up. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Journey With Harry Potter: The last installment of Harry Potter hits theaters this summer.

Take a journey through the stories with games and crafts that celebrate all things Potter. South Burlington Community Library, 6-8 p.m. All ages.

Free. Info, 652-7080.

Ristorante carnevale: Play bocce, learn to juggle, make an Italian flag and participate in a meatball race during this Italian-take-outinspired carnival. Bring an Italian picnic lunch for the family to share between the games. Essex Free Library, 11:30 a.m. All ages. Free. Info, 879-0313.

World culture Time: See July 6.

Nature & Science

July Farm Programs for Preschoolers: See July 6.

Wagon Ride Wednesdays: See July 6.

Antarctica: Penguins on ice Floes: Learn about penguins and make something cool as the Around the Globe craft series stops in Antarctica. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m.

Grades 1-5. Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956. shop on the Green: See July 7. summervale: See July 7.

Library & Books

cardboard Box Parade: Pick your favorite story and use it as a theme to decorate a cardboard box, or yourself, and join the library and Burlington Parks and Recreation staff in a parade. Meet at the Unitarian Universalist Society Meeting House, Burlington, 1 p.m. Ages 2-12. Free. Info, 865-7216. children Gather Round Native American drumming: Dance and drum, singing songs you might hear at a local powwow. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages 5 and up. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Party for Kindergartners: Local kids entering kindergarten in September are invited to celebrate at one of three one-hour parties held throughout the day, during which they’ll receive their own library cards. South Burlington Community Library; parties at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Age 5. Preregister. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Williston Teen club: See July 7.

Nature & Science

Bats in the Barn: Come celebrate the best bug zappers around, bats, and venture out with Barry the Bat Guy to watch the flight of barn bats as they embark on their evening hunt. Shelburne Farms, 7-9 p.m. All ages. $10 member parents and children, $5 additional children; $12 nonmember parents and children, $7 additional children.

Info, 985-8686.

15 Friday

Arts

comics club: See July 1.

Fairs & Festivals

solarfest: The New England Renewable Energy Festival boasts over 75 workshops on the art of sustainable living. The event includes storytelling, puppets, clowns and a dedicated kids’ corner making for a family-friendy weekend event. 12 McNamara Rd, Tinmouth, starting at noon. $15$65. Info, 235-1513.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym at the Burlington YmcA: See July 1.

Family Gym at the Winooski YmcA: See July 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See July 6.

Library & Books

Harry Potter Read-a-Thon: Celebrate the release of the newest Harry Potter movie by stopping into the library to hear dramatic readings

from The Deathly Hallows. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Free. Info, 865-7216.

High school Book Group: See July 1.

Tie-dye Extravaganza: Bring clean, white Tshirts, socks, undies — anything you want to tie-dye. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 1 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 223-3338.

Nature & Science

Foodways Fridays: Follow a recipe for fun with a program teaching children and adults how heirloom vegetables are used in historic recipes prepared in the Billings farmhouse kitchen. Each week a different recipe brings alive the history of old-variety veggies. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. $12 adults, $6 children 5-15, $3 children 2 and younger. Info, 457-2355. montshire member Night: Check out the new Hughes Pavilion, Robot Zoo and Science Park in the evening. Light refreshments. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 5-7 p.m. All ages.

Members only. Info, 649-2200.

16 saTurday

Arts

Purple crayon summer Fest: Join ArtisTree and Purple Crayon in celebrating the 3rd Annual Summer Fest with live music, drumming, art projects, a silent auction and more. All ages. Free.

Info, 457-3500. saturday drama club: See July 2.

16 sATURdAY, p. 36

KidsVT.com July 2011 Kids VT

35

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16 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)

Saturday Kids Drop-In Art: See July 2.

Education

Shipwreck Tour: See July 2.

Fairs & Festivals Solarfest: See July 15.

Library & Books

Stars & Stripes Parade: Join Cobleigh Library staff on their float in the Stars & Stripes Parade.

Power’s Park, Lyndonville, 9:45 a.m. (road closes at 9:30). All ages. Free. Info, 626-5475.

Nature & Science

Flower Power: See spotlight, page 31.

Moonlit Campfire: Listen to stories while sitting around a campfire on a summer evening and meet a live owl. Shelburne Museum, 7-9 p.m. All ages. $10 member parents and children, $5 additional children; $12 nonmember parents and children, $7 additional children. Info, 985-8686.

Lovin’ Island Livin’ The five towns of the Lake Champlain Islands know how to party. Join them as they present the best of island life during a three-day, stay-cationinspired FESTIVAL OF THE ISLANDS. Concerts, wine tours and tastings, flea markets and yard sales, farm stands, and community meals dot the landscape along Routes 2 and 129 in the host towns of Alburgh, Isle La Motte, North Hero, Grand Isle and South Hero. Kids will get to know llamas and alpacas at the petting paddocks, have their fill of island-made ice cream and explore Knight Point State Park — yes, it’s open, despite the spring flooding.

Maps available throughout the islands point families toward the fun.

2ND ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF THE ISLANDS: Friday, July 29, through Sunday, July 31, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Along Routes 2 and 129 in South Hero, Grand Isle, North Hero, Isle La Motte and Alburgh; maps listing times and locations of events available throughout islands. All ages. Free. Info, 999-5862. champlainislands.com.

Cookie Decorating: See July 6.

Summer Family Adventure: See July 18.

Summer Travelers: See July 6.

Education

Autism Treatment Webinar: Attend a Vermont Family Network webinar focusing on the implementation of Act 127, which requires private insurers to cover treatment for autism-related services starting in October. Presenters will discuss the background of the act and how its passage can help children on the autism spectrum get evidence-based treatment. Online, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 1-800-800-4005, ext. 225.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See July 6.

Fairs & Festivals

Library & Books

The Amazing Library Race: Families race around the library and try to complete wacky challenges. South Burlington Community Library, 6-8 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Fun With Ellie: Ellie takes preschoolers on an interactive musical trip around the world with international songs and activities, dancing with colorful ribbons, bubbles and parachute play.

Highgate Public Library, 10 a.m. For toddlers and preschool-age children. Preregister. Free.

Info, 868-3970.

Nature & Science

A Bird in the Hood: As part of the Sundays for Fledglings series, little ones learn about bird habitats and ecosystems as they hike and explore with museum staff. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-2:45 p.m. Intended for children in grades 1-4, but all are welcome. Preregister. Free with admission. Info, 434-2167.

Groove Around the Globe: See July 6.

Journey to Japan: Join in the summer reading program fun, learning about the history and artwork of Japan. Origami will be the featured craft and you can sample some Japanese treats as well. Highgate Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m.

For students entering grade 5 and up. Free. Info, 868-3970.

National Ice Cream Day: Celebrate National Ice Cream Day by learning the history behind this all-American dessert, hand-cranking your own ice cream and eating your fill. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

All ages. $12 adults, $11 seniors 62 and up, $6 children 5-15, $3 children 3-4, free for children 2 and under. Info, 457-2355.

18 MONDAY

Arts

Draw Comics: See July 11.

Community

KIDSVT.COM

Community

17 SUNDAY

Family Gym at the Burlington YMCA: See July 1, 10:15 a.m.-noon.

JULY 2011

Circus Smirkus in Brattleboro: See spotlight, page 28.

Health & Fitness

Health & Fitness

KIDS VT

Arts

Kids Cooking Up A Story: See July 6.

Solarfest: See July 15, through 7 p.m., .

36

20 WEDNESDAY

Summer Family Adventure: Looking to do something as a family this summer? Summer Family Adventure offers five nights of music, drama, crafts and games for all ages to enjoy. Essex Alliance Church, Essex Junction, 6 p.m. $20 per family suggested donation. Info, 878-8213.

World Culture Time: See July 6.

Nature & Science Circus Smirkus in Brattleboro: See spotlight, page 28, Vermont Agricultural Business Education Center, Brattleboro, 2 and 7 p.m. Afternoon shows: $22 adults and children 13 and up, $16 children 2-12. Evening shows: $22 all tickets..

Craftacular Tuesdays: See July 5.

Creative Tuesdays: See July 5.

19 TUESDAY

Performance at the Fletcher Free Library: Enjoy a play for kids, written and performed by kids. The Burlington Parks and Recreation Open Stage Performance Camp brings it to life in the library. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon. Ages 5 and up. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Arts

Community

‘Ask a Bird’ Poetry Workshop: Kids observe birds and then write odes to them in this imaginative poetry-writing workshop led by Vermont poet Ted Scheu. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-3:30 p.m. Ages 6-12. Preregister.

Free with admission. Info, 434-2167.

Submit your August events by July 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

Summer Family Adventure: See July 18.

Education

Kids in the Kitchen: Blueberry Fest: Kids use blueberries to make favorite summertime desserts, including blueberry crisp and blueberry lemonade. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages

(with adult). Preregister. $20 per child. Info, 863-2569.

Montpelier La Leche League Group: Open group for all breast-feeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breast-feeding. Unitarian Church, Montpelier, 10 a.m.. Free. Info, 2447416 or 223-0873.

Rutland Breast-Feeding Support Group: Group for new mothers or women considering breast-feeding. Rutland Regional Medical Center, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info 747-3688.

Be a Firefly Watcher: Spend some time in the dark and learn more about fireflies in Vermont and beyond. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 12:30 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 877-324-6386.

July Farm Programs for Preschoolers: See July 6.

Wagon-Ride Wednesdays: See July 6.

21 THURSDAY

Arts

Health & Fitness

Military Band at Open House: The Morristown Military Band will get you dancing on the lawn during a museum open house. Noyes House Museum, Morrisville, 6-8 p.m. All ages. Free.

Info, 888-7617.

Stroller Strolling: See July 5.

Community

Library & Books

Summer Family Adventure: See July 18.

Time-Travel Tuesdays: See July 5.

Kids Run at Hard’ack: See July 5.

Peace Corps Visit: Learn more about what it takes to join the Peace Corps and how you can make a difference around the world. Cobleigh Library, Lyndonville, 1 p.m. Grades 6-12. Free.

Info, 626-5475.

Shop on the Green: See July 7.

Summervale: See July 7.

Education

Kids in the Kitchen: Pickles: Kids are introduced to the pickling process in this hands-on class

July calendar that turns fresh cucumbers into bread-andbutter pickles, and take the fruits of their labor home in sparkling jars. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Ages 6 and up (with adult). Preregister. $20 children. Info, 863-2569.

Library & Books

craft an Australian Boomerang: Learn to make a boomerang as the Around the Globe craft series stops in Australia. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Grades 1-5. Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956.

songs & stories With matthew: See July 8. swing Peepers: Storytelling, music and general wackiness with the Swing Peepers. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 1 p.m. All ages.

Free. Info, 223-3338.

Nature & Science

Foodways Fridays: See July 15.

23 Saturday

Arts

Learn to Batik: Create colorful flags using the traditional art of batik. Participants may also bring a new, unwashed cotton T-shirt or other item to decorate. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2 p.m. Preregister. Free. Info, 878-4918.

make a major mess: Create your own unique project during this open art session for the whole family. Purple Crayon Productions Art and Music Center, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-noon. All ages (children under 5 accompanied by adult). $10 children. Info, 457-3500.

mardi Gras in July: The celebration includes music, puppets, a parade, a history lesson, stories and snacks. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 524-1507.

saturday drama club: See July 2.

Williston Teen club: See July 7.

Nature & Science

The Buzz on Bees: Take a closer look at the life of bees in this preschool program that covers hives and pollination. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. Ages 3-5 with adult. Preregister. $8 members with child, $10 nonmembers with child, $4 additional children. Info, 434-3068.

22 Friday

Arts

comics club: See July 1.

saturday Kids drop-in Art: See July 2.

Fairs & Festivals

Lamoille county Field days: See spotlight, page 38.

Nature & Science

The Butterfly Guy: Meet Jerry Schneider, the Butterfly Guy, and learn about Mexico and butterflies. Each child makes a T-shirt.

Franklin Town Hall, 10 a.m. All ages. Free. Info, 285-6505. middlesex Notch Fern Walk: Take a woodland walk through Middlesex Notch and learn to identify different types of ferns. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 9 a.m.-noon. All ages. $10 members, $12 nonmembers, $5 children. Info, 229-6206.

Community

sheldon Forest Little Explorers: This program, led by Kurt Valenta and Virginia Holiman, offers kids and families an opportunity to interact with nature and the environment in a handson way. Sheldon Community Forest, Sheldon Elementary School, 9 a.m. Ages 3-5. Free. Info, 868-3970.

summer Family Adventure: See July 18.

24 Sunday

summervale: See July 7.

Fairs & Festivals

champ and the Lake monsters: Vermont’s favorite mascot and his baseball-playing friends read stories and autograph baseballs. Bring a camera and have your picture taken with Champ. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. All ages. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Fairs & Festivals

Lamoille county Field days: See spotlight, page 38.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym at the Burlington YmcA: See July 1.

Family Gym at the Winooski YmcA: See July 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See July 6.

Library & Books

Karaoke & open-mic Night: Share and perform your favorite tunes or just listen to your neighbors. Essex Free Library, 6 p.m. All ages. Free.

Info, 879-0313.

25 Monday

Arts

draw comics: See July 11.

Library & Books

Explore With mr. K: Fun exploration with Mr. K features nature, travel and adventure stories.

Haston Library, Franklin, 2-3 p.m. All ages. Free.

Info, 285-6505.

Nature & Science

Build Your Basin: Discover how the Lake Champlain Basin has structure and plumbing similar to your own bathtub. Build your own basin and see firsthand how a watershed works.

ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free with paid admission.

Info, 877-324-6386.

Kids VT

Lego Fun & Games: Build with Legos. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Family Gym at the Burlington YmcA: See July 1, 10:15 a.m.-noon.

July 2011

High school Book Group: See July 1.

Health & Fitness

KidsVT.com

Butterflies of mexico: A slide show features local butterflies and monarch migration to Mexico. The program concludes with a butterfly T-shirt craft for kids (purchase shirt for $4 or bring your own). Cobleigh Library, Lyndonville, 3:30 p.m. Grades K-5 and caregivers. Free. Info, 626-5475.

Lamoille county Field days: See spotlight, page 38.

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JULY calendar

50 Years of Field Days For half a century, the Lamoille County Fields Days has offered true Vermont farm-family fun — an ag-related celebration and respite from chores. From humble roots as a tractor rodeo in 1961, the fair has grown to a three-day event drawing thousands including vacationers and tourists, says Field Days secretary Sharon Hall. With a pay-one-price ticket, these field days make a great family outing: You won’t keep going back to your wallet for ride tickets or event entry.

Sample the schedule for a taste of the fair’s unique flavor: The baby-bottle drinking contest takes place both Friday and Saturday; kids’ arm wrestling starts at five on Friday; and you won’t want to miss the ladies’ skillet toss Saturday night. Of course, there are also the traditional goings-on, including 4-H shows, horse, oxen and tractor pulls, a lumberjack roundup, and Friday-night fireworks. Extra special this year: Buddy the Clown builds a 10-by-20-inch birthday cake entirely out of balloons. Happy Birthday, Lamoille County Field Days!

Lamoille county field days: Friday, July 22, through Sunday, July 24, hours vary by day. Route 100C, Johnson. $10 per person, $25 per person for a three-day pass. Free parking.

26 Tuesday

Arts

Creative Tuesdays: See July 5.

Craftacular Tuesdays: See July 5.

Education

Time-Travel Tuesdays: See July 5.

Health & Fitness

Kids Run at Hard’ack: See July 5.

Stroller Strolling: See July 5.

Library & Books

Kamishibai Japanese Storytelling: Stories come alive through this ancient art with illustrated storyboards presented on a small stage.

Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. All ages. Free. Info, 878-4918.

27 Wednesday

Community

Cookie Decorating: See July 6.

38

Kids VT

July 2011

kidsvt.com

Summer Travelers: See July 6.

Education

Kids Cooking Up A Story: See July 6.

Health & Fitness

Kids Open Gymnastics: See July 6.

Library & Books

Groove Around the Globe: See July 6.

Journey to Italy: Join in the summer reading program fun, creating mosaic tile art and tasting Italian treats. Highgate Public Library, 3:30-5

p.m. For students entering grade 5 and up. Free.

Info, 868-3970.

Letter-Boxing Adventure: Create a stamp and learn about letter-boxing, an adventure not unlike hunting treasure. South Burlington Community Library, 6-8 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Nature & Science

Kids Open Gymnastics: See July 6.

Family Gym at the Winooski YMCA: See July 1.

Free with admission; donations accepted. Info, 985-8686.

Library & Books

31 sunday

The Butterfly Guy: Bring a clean, white T-shirt for a craft activity after a lesson on Monarchs from the Butterfly Guy. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 1 p.m. Ages 7 and up. Free.

Info, 223-3338.

Fairs & Festivals

2nd Annual Festival of the Islands: See spotlight, page 36.

Foodways Fridays: See July 15.

Sam Mazza’s Blueberry Breakfast: Sample blueberry muffins, blueberry pancakes and other breakfast foods while listening to music from the Starline Rhythm Boys. Pick your own blueberries on site. Sam Mazza’s Farm Market, Colchester, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 655-3440.

Community

30 Saturday

Health & Fitness

Summervale: See July 7.

Purple Crayon at Bookstock: Purple Crayon staff will provide fun-tastic children’s programs and activities during this year’s Bookstock event. Downtown Woodstock, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 457-3500.

July Farm Programs for Preschoolers: See July 6.

Wagon Ride Wednesdays: See July 6.

28 Thursday Shop on the Green: See July 7.

Library & Books

Sidewalk-Chalk Rainforest: Create a rainforest with sidewalk chalk as the Around the Globe series stops in South America. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Preregister. Grades 1-5.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

Williston Teen Club: See July 7.

29 Friday

Arts

High School Book Group: See July 1.

Nature & Science

Arts

Saturday Drama Club: See July 2.

Saturday Kids Drop-In Art: See July 2.

Education

Shipwreck Tour: See July 2.

Fairs & Festivals

Comics Club: See July 1.

2nd Annual Festival of the Islands: See spotlight, page 36.

Fairs & Festivals

Nature & Science

2nd Annual Festival of the Islands: See spotlight, page 36.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym at the Burlington YMCA: See July 1.

Green Mountain Draft Horse Field Day: Watch draft horses plow, hay and log. Minihorses show their stuff, too. Wagon rides explore areas of the farm not normally on the tour. Shelburne Farms, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages.

Family Gym at the Burlington YMCA: See July 1, 10:15 a.m.-noon.

Nature & Science

A Bird in the Hand: As part of the Sundays for Fledglings series, kids learn about soap carving and receive their very own bird. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-2:45 p.m. Intended for children in grades 1-4, but all are welcome. Preregister. Free with admission. Info, 434-2167.

Take Me to the River: Bring your bathing suit and water shoes for a family adventure on the Huntington River. The afternoon includes fishing, boating and swimming. Meet at Sugarhouse Parking Area, Green Mountain Audubon Club, Huntington, 1-3 p.m. Ages 5 and up with adult. Preregister. $10 members with child, $12 nonmembers with child, $5 additional children. Info, 434-3068. K

Submit your August events by July 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

“Kids VT is an important way we get the word out about our kid-centered programs at Shelburne Museum. Whether it’s an evening program, like the Harry Potter celebration, or a Family Day like October’s “Haunted Happenings,” Kids VT helps us target the right audience. We love the lively new layout of the print version, and the re-imagined website further extends our reach through electronic media, making Kids VT a tool we can’t afford to overlook in our media buy.”

Leslie Wright

GET IN ON THE FUN.

PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING MANAGER SHELBURNE MUSEUM

CALL 985-5482 TO ADVERTISE.

ALL NEW!

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, big

Kids VT

ideas !

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MATTHEW THORSEN

all

July 2011

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pe op le

4/26/11 1:48 PM

HANDS-ON

materials • • • • • •

✱ CRAFTING WITH KIDS

40

KIDS VT

JULY 2011

KIDSVT.COM

Hammered Flowers This summertime craft involves an unusual combination of beauty and brawn. First, kids collect flowers from the garden or from a patch of wildflowers. Next, provide them with a hammer, which they’ll need to smash out a delicate watercolor flower poster. Wet-petaled flowers such as irises work well, while roses and daisies won’t transfer much color.

Add an educational component to the project by having kids pencil in the flower names, including botanical families.

— KATE LADDISON

Newspaper Watercolor paper Paper towels Hammer Flowers Tweezers

instructions 1. Lay out a sheet of newspaper on a work surface that can withstand a little pounding.

2. On the newspaper, place a sheet of watercolor paper.

3. Place a flower on the watercolor paper, and cover it with the paper towel.

4. Use the hammer to gently pound on the entire flower, including the stem. Peel back the paper towel to see if the color is transferring to the paper and continue hammering, if necessary.

5. Remove the paper towel and the flower, using tweezers to carefully lift away any stray bits.

6. Repeat steps 1 through 5 with as many flowers as desired.

7. Once finished, spray with acrylic coating to ensure the colors will last and hang the poster.

Share your fun craft ideas with us!

Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.

CElEBRATIONS! Happy 6th Happy 6th Birthday, Marcus! Marcus!

Birthday,

Time sure flies when you’re having fun!

Time sure flies when you’re having fun!

Good luck with your t-ball season. I’m sure all Good you want this birthday is luck somewith frontyour teeth.t-ball season. I’m sure all

you want this birthday is some front teeth.

— Love, Auntie Brooke, Uncle Rob and Cousin Noah

— Love, Auntie Brooke, Uncle Rob and Cousin Noah

Happy B-day, coop!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Avery!

you’re never too old to be embarrassed by your uncles.

Can’t wait to celebrate with you on the Cape this month.

— Love Shawn, Don and Edna Portland

Wishing you the sweetest of birthdays for our little princess!

did you lose something, Graham?

k4t-EchoCenter0711.indd 1

6/16/11 12:31 PM

Congratulations!

— Love, Mom, Aimo and Ivy

my baby is getting married!

Welcome to the Family, sis!

Congrats on your new life together Sarah Cronin & Tommy Allen

love and licks from your new sister and brother Edna and Portland.

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41

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Kids VT

Congratulate your child publicly in Kids VT for only $25/tile. Submit your info at kidsvt.com/celebrate or celebrations@kidsvt.com by july 15.

july 2011

celebrating a birthday, anniversary, confirmation, bar/bat mitzvah, first tooth?

KidsVT.com

Show your Lake Monsters ticket stub and receive a

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JOIN THE KIDS TOWN SHOE CLUB! JOIN THE get KIDS TOWN SHOE Now a4-Day 4-Day Now Sale!

Buy 12 pairs, the 13thapair FREE!* CLUB! Buy 12*Some pairs, get the 13th pair FREE!* restrictions apply. See store for details.

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10am–7pm (Thurs–Sat), 10am–6pm $5 off any(Thurs–Sat), purchase 9am–7pm 10am–5pm (Sun) (Sun)

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Kids Town Moonlight Madness Sale… You’d be crazy to miss it.

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TOYS • FURNITURE • SHOES • CLOTHING FEEDING & SAFETY • ONLINE REGISTRY

10 Farrell Street, South Burlington • 865-6870 Open Mon - Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5

42

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• Open

Even in Vermont, July can get really hot, so if you’re celebrating in the summer heat, cool the kids down by getting wet! Here are some refreshing ideas for birthday parties with a water focus. Add a mermaid, pirate or nautical theme to make the party extra special.

LAKE IROQUOIS, HINESBURG If you haven’t been here yet with your family, you are missing out. There is a clean, sandy beach, roped-off swimming area, concessions and restrooms.

With charcoal pits, a grassy area, a playground and a boat launch, it’s perfect for a birthday barbecue. Fees are $5 for residents of Williston, St. George, Hinesburg and Richmond, $7 for nonresidents, and children under 12 get in for free. Info, hinesburg.org/lakeiroquois.

THE EDGE AT ESSEX This is a great indoor option. The pool area features a very fast, enclosed spiral water slide. It’s not for the faint of heart, but my 4-year-old loved it and slid with her dad for an hour at her party. The Edge offers multiple deals, but I recommend the Birthday Bash package, which includes just water time and the use of a private room for the celebration. The other combinations include gym time, rock climbing or a magician with the pool time, but whenever I’ve gone, no one wants to leave the water slide. The Birthday Bash costs $190 for members, $210 for nonmembers. Info, sfedge.com.

AT HOME Bring the water park home! Vermont Bounce rents a 24-foot inflatable water slide. All you need is a water hose and level area in your yard. Yes, it can hold adults as well: just ask my husband. We did this for my oldest daughter’s fifth birthday, complete with a mermaid theme, and it was an absolute blast. The cost is $150 per hour. Info, vermontbounce.com.

Note: Be on the lookout for the new TOYS • FURNITURE • SHOES • CLOTHING indoor water park opening at Jay FEEDING & SAFETY • AND MORE Peak ResortFREE this ski and GIFT winter.

WRAPPING &A PARKING swim party — now there’s a guarannap!

Info, jaypeakresort.com.

Monteed - Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5

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Got an idea for the Party Planner?

Send it to ideas@kidsvt.com.

FUNNY BUSINESS ENTERTAINMENT featuring

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Sponsored by Zachary’s Family Fun Center in South Burlington

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Every month, four birthday kids win prizes, and their picture appears in Kids VT to make their birthdays extra special!

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Grand Prize Winner

dakota lives in Winooski and turns 10 in July. He loves to fish, bike-ride and do arts and crafts.

Dakota wins a birthday party for eight at Zachary’s Family Fun Center!

matthew lives in Williston and turns 7 in July. He especially enjoys spending time with his older brother, Tommy.

Aidan lives in Burlington and turns 7 in July. He enjoys birds of prey and spent the past several months studying Earth’s timeline and dinosaur evolution.

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43

Say you saw it in

6/16/11 1:16 PM

Kids VT

Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birthdates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled in our Kids VT Birthday Club.

2/21/11 k16t-Joeyclown0311.indd 10:24 AM 1

July 2011

To enter your kids, submit information using the online form at kidsvt.com/birthdayclub.

®

Celebrate your Birthday at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory!

KidsVT.com

Join the club!

• MAllEttS BAY 862-7900 • WAtERBuRY 244-5650 • RichMOND 434-4002

k16t-DavisStudio0311.indd 1

HANDS-ON

BY JAN BUCKNER WALKER

answers p. 46

PUZZLE PAGE

Kids Across/Parents Down

Enjoy fun time with mom, dad or your favorite grown-up.

The across clues are for kids and the down clues are for adults.

How can this B? Kids Across

Parents Down

1. He’s the tallest guy on “Sesame Street” (2 wds) 3. A group that makes music together

Puzzles4Kids

44

Kids VT

July 2011

kidsvt.com

Riddle Search — Outdoor Dining

beans burgers cake chicken cole slaw corn hot dogs kabobs ketchup mustard

onions pie potatoes relish rolls sausage soda spare ribs tea

4. Gymnast’s specialty: high___ 5. Traditional alarm clock toppers

6. It’s a “novel” thing for you to read

Search 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. Read from left to right, top to bottom, to answer this riddle: Who is the author of the book “Outdoor Dining”??

2. Literature vendors on wheels 3. Tricycle-rider’s upgrade

4. Abbr. on the suitcase tags of someone flying to BaltimoreWashington International Airport

BY HELENA HOVANEC

1. Snippy guy behind a swivel chair

7. To cook meat outside on a grill 10. Saucy side dish served with hot dogs at a 7A (2 wds)

7. To luxuriously soak up sunshine (or glory) 8. An uncivilized lot, or description of those at the gate in the HBO movie title 9. Prohibits

12. High-flyers that are the color of sapphires

11. He’s the closer at a diner’s restaurant table

15. A hair beautifier with bristles

13. JFK’s attorney general and brother

16. What a loving grizzly gives her cub along with a kiss (2 wds)

14. Hip-hop jeans description

17. Fluffy carrot-crunching pet

Riddle Answer: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____.

18. Everyone’s brother is one © 2011 Jan Buckner Walker. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.

Age _______________________________________ Email _____________________________________ Phone _____________________________________

45

Town _____________________________________

KIDS VT

Be sure to include the info at right in your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8, and (3) ages 9-12.

The best artwork will be featured on kidsvt.com, and winners will be named in the August 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.

Artist _____________________________________

JULY 2011

Send us your work of art by July 15. You could win a $25 gift certificate to Texas Roadhouse!

Title _______________________________________

KIDSVT.COM

COLORING CONTEST!

Where in the world are you off to this summer?

Send us a postcard from your summer travels, whether near or far, to be entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift card to Best Buy!

PLAY HERE THIS SUMMER GREATER BURLINGTON YMCA Open Family Swim at Myers Pool in Winooski Outdoor swimming lessons at Myers Pool Tiny Tots Preschool Ballet Nature and Adventure Camps And more

ORTHODONTICS

Registration now open for the summer season!

DRS. PETERSON, RYAN & EATON

A healthy, beautiful smile is priceless!

BURLINGTON OFFICE 247 Pearl Street 862-6721 • Mon-Wed

ST. ALBANS OFFICE 94 South Main Street 527-7100 • Tues-Fri

WILLISON OFFICE 277 Blair Park Rd. 878-5323 • Mon, Thurs, Fri

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5/17/11 12:21 PM

gbymca.org 862-9622 GREATER BURLINGTON YMCA 266 College St., Burlington VT 05401 802-862-9622

Contest!

k4t-ymca0711.indd 1

6/23/11 12:07 PM

count the Kites to Win a Prize

Braces for Children and Adults Burlington Williston St. Albans 862-6721 878-5323 527-7100 www.champlainortho.net

find all of the kites fluttering in the pages of the July issue and you could win tickets to the shelburne Museum. first, count the kites. then tell us how many you found at kidsvt.com, or write us at Kids VT, Po box 1184, burlington, VT 05402. We’ll collect the correct responses and choose two winners, who will each receive four free passes to the museum. enter by 5 p.m. on July 15 to win.

46

Kids VT

July 2011

KidsVT.com

PuZZle PAGe ANsWeRs (see p. 44)

Jumbles lot, soul, flag, upon Riddle ANsWeR: What a boy has that a dog does — pants

Riddle ANsWeR: Barbie Cue.

use your words A Vermont Nanny & Elder Care Agency

Not From Around Here?

A Korean mom reflects on her childhood in the Northeast Kingdom By mar y Br od sK y

my son Henry and i were waiTing in the Costco checkout line, having loaded up on paper products, laundry detergent and fruit that had probably spent more time in a refrigerated compartment than growing on a tree. Two Asian children in the cart next to ours eyed Henry and the hunk of muffin he was clutching in his 5-year old fist. One of them pointed at him and said something to a man I assumed was her father in a language other than English.

Henry’s brow furrowed, then he jerked his thumb at the family and announced loudly enough for everyone within 10 feet of us to hear: “They’re talking in Chinese. They’re not from here.”

At this point, any parent might have felt a little embarrassed. I was mortified. I’m Korean. Henry is biracial — part Asian and part Caucasian.

In my mind, Asians living in one of the whitest states in the union share a common bond, regardless of background or experience. As soon as Henry spoke, I felt the invisible string of our ethnic solidarity vibrate with shame from the carelessness of his words.

I know how carelessness stings. I was 6 months old when my American parents adopted me and brought me home to the states; my sister arrived four years later. Our family moved to Vermont when I was 9 and she was 6. For years, the two of us were the epicenter of diversity in the Northeast Kingdom. Our ignorance about the land of our birth didn’t matter. We came to the U.S. as blank slates, but people believed Asian culture was in our blood.

While our parents wondered how they could help us integrate with our peers, and tried to understand why we weren’t more interested in learning about our birth culture, we were being called upon to answer serious playground questions: “How come you don’t talk Chinese?” “Is there dog meat in egg rolls?” “What makes your eyes go slanted like that?”

For me, growing up as a foreign-born adoptee in Vermont in the 1980s was to grow up in limbo. I was an exile from a faraway land I didn’t remember, a land I cared nothing about. I eschewed any and all things Korean in favor of assimilation. Spiral permanent?

Check. Blue eyeshadow? Check. Jelly shoes? Check.

My blond-haired, blue-eyed mother bluntly told me that I looked ridiculous, but I tossed a frizzy ringlet over my shoulder and scoffed. I was wearing what

everybody else was wearing; I was acting the way everybody else was acting. I was just like everyone else.

It took years at college, and many more fashion faux pas, before I came to reconcile, and eventually embrace, my whole self. I sought to experience Korean culture and learn more about my heritage. I married, not the “nice Asian boy” my Irish Catholic mother had dreamed of — truly, what were the odds of my meeting one of those in Vermont? — but a nice Irish Catholic boy, instead. Together, he and I have produced three beautiful, biracial kids.

We’ve tried to raise our children in a socially liberal, quasi-educated manner. We talk about skin color at home, about civil rights, women’s rights and the importance of selfexpression. We read multicultural children’s books, and we celebrate our Korean heritage by practicing tae kwon do as a family. A map of the world hangs on our refrigerator, and even if it’s half covered with children’s artwork, ticket stubs and school notices, it is there, and we reference it often. Between our efforts and my genes, I was convinced that my kids would grow up to be more racially and culturally sensitive than the average Jane.

So it was a shock when Henry blurted out something that sounded, to me, like an insult. “You’re not from around here” is a phrase I heard often as a child. It still rankles.

I didn’t apologize for my son’s rudeness. I wish I had. Instead, I smiled weakly at the family before lecturing Henry about Asian stereotypes and the importance of respecting other cultures. He nodded his understanding and acted chastened.

On the drive home, as I was mentally berating myself for poor parenting, I recalled how Henry’s preschool class had spent weeks preparing for the Chinese New Year, how they had made a fantastic papier-mâché dragon and drawn Chinese symbols and practiced saying Chinese words. Only then did it occur to me that maybe I had misinterpreted the situation.

Maybe Henry had just been making an honest observation, trying to connect what he saw to what he’d learned in school.

It was a teachable moment — for me. I realized that I had reacted so strongly not because Henry had made a xenophobic remark, but because of my own emotional baggage. And that’s something that my kids, thankfully, don’t have to carry. K

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KidsVT.com july 2011 Kids VT

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Mary Brodsky lives with her husband and their three children in Essex. Read more of her writing at oinktales.com.

“Use Your Words” is a monthly essay in which writers reflect on parenting and childhood.

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6/17/11 11:55 AM