Boulder County Kids Spring 2022

volume XXV111 No. 1

spring 2022

CELEBRATING OUR CHILDREN FOR OVER 27 YEARS!

THE

CAMPS ISSUE

“Starry Canyons”

by Maddie, age 12

Directories, Resources, Recipes, Columns, Crafts, & more fun inside! bouldercountykids.com • 1

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ENGAGING STUDENTS IN

We believe schools should not only help students develop the skills and habits for future success, but should also awaken their curiosity, expand their view of the world, and empower local, regional, and global communities.

Reach out to learn more about admission opportunities for the 2022-2023 academic year!

Contact admissions@watershedschool.org to learn more.

RESEARCH-BASED • FUTURE-FOCUSED • COMMUNITY-CENTERED

1 6 61 ALPI N E AV E. BOU L D E R, CO 8 03 04 | 3 03 -440 -7520 WATERSH EDSC H O OL .ORG

bouldercountykids.com • 3

WELCOME BACK! In Colorado, Spring is fickle.

A lot of the time, things tend to look grey—at least the dirty snow lining the sidewalks does. Or, everything is blanketed in the thickest snow of the season, causing a yearn for rarely-given snow days. OR, bluebird days encourage bulbs to sprout strikingly green leaves that soon get covered by another blanket of frosty snow. Somehow, the flowers still bloom. Even if the snow storm hits at the end of May, which it has, and probably will, year after year.

Spring in Colorado is fickle, but Coloradans are patient.

Patience is what we need now more than ever as we move into this Spring. With patience comes perseverance and from there, beauty blooms. We at Boulder County Kids, like the rest of the Boulder community, are devastated by the destruction of the Marshall Fire. And it is our Coloradan perseverance that will help get us through.

This Spring Issue, Boulder County Kids will be donating 10% of all our Spring Issue proceeds to organizations that are helping those affected by the fires. As always, we are here in the community as a resource, but also as a friend to lean on even in the most unimaginable times.

Thank you to everyone for being patient while we waited for a safer time to return to a print magazine. We’re so incredibly proud and delighted to share our work and collaborations with you all!

Have a happy Spring, Boulder County. It’s time to bloom!

Follow us on: Contact us!

(303) 728-4798

info@bouldercountykids.com

Isabella & Annie (and our mascot Junie)

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BOULDER COUNTY KIDS is a division of Martin House Publications, Inc. Published quarterly in February, May, August, and November. Mailing Address: 1464 E. Easter Cir. Centennial, CO 80122.

Phone number: (303) 728–4798. Copyright 1995 to 2022 by Boulder County Kids. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. Boulder County Kids encourages your submission of articles, photographs, and ideas.

We reserve the right to edit all submitted material.

All submissions will be considered for publication.

Viewpoints of the articles are not necessarily the viewpoints of Boulder County Kids. Materials will not be returned. Advertising is accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Printed with soy-based ink.

Please go to www.bouldercountykids.com for more information.

WHAT’S INSIDE Spring 2022

time to bloom 10 12

Spring Crafts Spring Recipes

directories

articles & columns 6

Cover Artist Superstar

14

Kids’ Planet with Thorne Nature Experience

20

What Do I Do Now, Romona?

16

Virtual Directory

22

Integrated Love with

18 28

Helpful Services

24

Tiny Trails with Allison Burch Uplifting Picture Books

38 42 44 48 49

Child Care Directory

26

CAMPS Directory

Private School Directory After School Directory Birthday Party Directory Gift Giving Directory

Miss Katie

by Pam Martin

kids zone 52 53 54 46

Spring Horoscopes Spot Junie Spring Crossword PRESS PLAY: Video Page & TikToks

Special thanks to: Jennifer Martin & Indie Darlene Mueller Morse Leroy & Holly Schutz Marybeth & Carl Gieser bouldercountykids.com • 5

FRONT COVER

SUPERSTAR

If you’ve never had the opportunity to lie on your back at the bottom of a canyon and gaze at the stars, this colorful painting, titled “Starry Canyons,” will do the trick.

Maddie, a talented student at Tinker Art Studio, used watercolor paints to create the warm, swirling layers of the canyon and the tones of the sky.

To create the sparkling stars, Maddie added salt on top of the paint. We’re blown away by this creative genius!

Maddie is 12 years old (in the seventh grade) and is homeschooled in Gunbarrel with her two younger siblings and family cat, Bentley, who is the “king of the house.”

Her favorite subject to study is writing.

When it comes to food, Maddie prefers a home cooked meal, preferably pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes. When asked what her favorite TV show is, Maddie shares a laugh with her mom (who’s off-screen) and responds, “We’ve been watching Buffy,” – shout out to mom for bringing Buffy the Vampire Slayer back for the kids!

Maddie loves songs from musicals, especially Les Miserables, and has recently perfected “I Dreamed A Dream” on the piano. Maddie likes 6 • bouldercountykids.com

cross country running and biking to get active, very appropriate for a Boulder County Kid! In true artistic spirit, Maddie says that she would love to be a writer of fiction books when she grows up—she particularly likes fantasy fiction and dystopian novels like the Hunger Games series.

Her favorite thing about Spring is watching everything grow, but also the crazy Spring snowstorms that

Colorado is notorious for. Before we hung up the Zoom call, we had to ask Maddie about the bookshelf of board games over her left shoulder. She laughs and says it’s not even a third of their collection! Her favorite to play is the deck-building card game Heart of Crown.

Thank you, Maddie, for agreeing to let us feature your artwork on the front cover of this issue!

We hope you and your family (especially King Bentley!) have a very happy Spring season.

Thank you to Tinker Art Studio for submitting “Starry Canyons” along with other beautiful pieces of art (featured to the right)! For more information about Tinker Art Studio, please head to their listings in the After School Directory, Birthday Party Directory, & Camps Directory.

The cover sponsor, Premier Members Credit Union, pays competitive dividends on federally insured savings accounts.

Your family can also enjoy lowcost loans and the credit union gives money to the school of your choice at no cost to you. For more information and to find a location near you visit www.pmcu.org or call (303) 657-4558.

Maddie, left.

Bentley, below.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Emily S., age 7

Gaby Y., age 12

Kaia M., age 12

Helen R., age 8

Michaela K., age 9

Are you our next

FRONT COVER

superstar?

Send your art to info@bouldercountykids.com by April 10th to be considered for our Summer 2022 Issue.

The winner will recieve a $50 cash prize from our cover sponsor, Premier Members Credit Union, and will win bragging rights to all of his/her/their friends for the whole Summer season!

bouldercountykids.com • 7

Here’s what Boulder County Parents are saying about hosting an au pair for live-in childcare: “Our au pair is terrific—a thoughtful communicator, reliable, responsible and the kids love her.”

“Everything she does, it is with such enthusiasm. Plus she is an amazing cook!”

“The program brings joy, mentorship, companionship, and cultural awareness in ways we haven’t been able to provide before. We highly recommend it.”

www.culturalcare.com/jrodehaver

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What is an au pair?

An au pair is an educated young person from abroad who lives with you in your home for up to two years, cares for your children and becomes a part of your family.

To find out if hosting is right for your family: Contact Local Childcare Consultant: Jen Rodehaver, 303-956-6189 Jen.rodehaver@lcc.culturalcare.com Facebook: @LCCJenRodehaver

bouldercountykids.com • 9

CRAFTS

A collection of Spring-inspired crafts for all ages!

FLOWER PLAY DOUGH

by Pre-K Pages Ingredients: • • • • •

1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup water 1/4 cup salt 2 tsp cream of tartar Red food coloring (or whatever color you wish!)

• Rose water or flower-scented oil (lilac, jasmine, geranium) • Real flower petals

What You Do: 1. Add the flour, salt, water, and cream of tartar to a saucepan, along with a few drops of the food coloring and a drop or two of the rose water or scented oil if your kids don’t have any allergies.

2. Stir well (or get some little hands to help you!) until everything is combined. It will still look a bit lumpy, but that is OK! 3. Place the saucepan over low heat. Keep stirring and the mixture will begin to thicken, forming into one large ball.

Place it on parchment or wax paper and leave to cool for a few minutes. It won’t necessarily look nice and smooth yetbut don’t worry, we’re not done yet!

4. When it is cool enough to handle, knead the dough for thirty seconds or so. At this point, you should begin to notice that the dough is becoming less lumpy

5.

6.

7.

8.

and more pliable, like play dough instead of mush.

If you used rose water, the play dough should be taste-safe. It smells amazing but actually just tastes floury and salty – which usually discourages little nibblers!

However, if your children are beyond the age of taste-testing, adding in some petals makes the dough look extra special!

Break up the petals into small pieces and work them into the cooled dough.

Children can play with the dough however they like, but we had fun rolling it out and using a flower-shaped cookie cutter to make flower shapes. Then, we combined it with some green and yellow play dough to make beautiful flowers!

To store the play dough, wrap it in a clean piece of wax paper and store in a re-sealable bag. No need to refrigerate.

SALT DOUGH SNAKES

by Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls Ingredients: • 2 cups flour • 1 cup salt • ¾ cup water • 1 Tablespoon of oil • Baking sheet • Acrylic paint • Paint brushes • Polyurethane to prevent chipping

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What You Do: 1. Mix all ingredients together until a thick and malleable dough-like consistency occurs. Like play dough!

2. Separate the dough into fist-sized balls that can be rolled out like snakes!

3. Add a tiny bit of oil to your hands and your rolling surface and roll dough into long cylinders.

4. Put on a baking sheet and have your child position the dough in however model they want it to be baked. Squiggles, coiled, cobra stance!

CRYSTAL SNOWFLAKES

by Adventures of A DIY Mom Ingredients: • • • • • • • •

White pipe cleaners (or any color!)

String Wire cutters Pencils Wide mouth pint mason jar Water Borax Food coloring (optional)

5. Bake snakes for 3 hours at 200 degrees F. 6. Let sit overnight before painting.

7. Another thing to keep in mind when using acrylic paint is that the paint easily comes off the salt dough if kids handle the snakes before they are fully dry.

Try to paint the snakes without holding them, or hold the part you haven’t painted yet. If you want to add a second coat of paint, let the snakes dry for an hour or so in between coats. Once dry, spray with Polyurethane to prevent chipping!

What You Do: 1. Cut your pipe cleaner into thirds. Take two pieces and make an x. Then wrap one around the other. Repeat with the other piece to make a snowflake shape.

Tie the string onto one of the ends.

2. Place it in the mason jar to figure out where to tie the string to the pencil. You don’t want the snowflake to touch the sides or the bottom of the jar or else it will become crystallized to the jar. You can trim the ends a little bit so it fits better. Once you have the snowflakes hanging in the center of the jar, remove them.

3. Fill the jar with boiling water. Add food coloring, if desired. Add 6 Tbs. borax to pint jars. {or 12 Tbs. to quart jars} Stir until dissolved. I found it was easier to pour some borax into a bowl for the kids to measure out.

4. Place your snowflake back in the jar.

Make sure that it’s not touching the sides or bottom of the jar.

5. Now comes the hard part. You have to wait overnight for the crystals to form.

6. Pull them out the next morning and put them on a paper towel to dry.

7. So what do you do when your jar has crystals all over the bottom? Here’s the trick. Pour a little boiling water in it and grab a fork to scrape the bottom a little and they’ll come right off. Sometimes it will come out with super hot tap water.

bouldercountykids.com • 11

RECIPES

Try these engaging, alternative recipes to ring in the sweetness of the season!

FRUIT SPRING ROLLS Inspired by NaturalDeets Blog Ingredients: • Rice paper wrappers • Fruits of choice to cut into “matchsticks” (apples, pears, mango, pineapple) • Fruits of choice to cut into slices (strawberries, bananas, kiwis, oranges) • ⅓ cup hot water • A plate big enough to fit the rice paper What You Do: 1. Wash and dry your produce before starting!

2. Cut your fruits into slices. These are the fruits that will show through the rice paper wrapper!

3. Cut your other fruits into matchsticks that are about 6 inches in length.

4. Pour hot water onto a plate; be careful not to splash.

5. Place one rice paper sheet into the hot water for 10 seconds. Make sure the entire wrapper gets wet.

6. Place the wet wrapper on a dry plate or cutting board.

7. In the middle of the wrapper, place several slices of fruit that you sliced in step #2.

8. Place the matchstick fruit on top of the fruit slices. Add as much or as little as you want. The more you add, the thicker the roll will be.

9. Fold the corner of the rice paper over the fruit. Tuck in the sides and continue rolling.

10. Serve and enjoy!

CRISPY RICE NESTS Inspired by Crafty Morning Blog Ingredients: • 3 tbsp. butter • 1 10 oz bag of marshmallows • 6 cups of crispy rice cereal • Edible Grass - Amazon • Robins egg candies - Amazon What You Do: 1. Melt the butter over medium heat and stir in the marshmallows. Continue stirring until completely melted. Pour the mixture over the crispy rice cereal and stir until well combined.

2. Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray and shape the nests. I found it helpful to also spray a spoon and use it to help make the indents. You could do this by hand but it would be quite messy!

3. Let the crispies cool in the pan, pull them out, and decorate! I broke up the edible grass, placed it in the nest, and filled the nest with the eggs.

4. You can also use coconut dyed green for the grass!

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KIDS’ PLANET with Thorne Nature Experience

GREENBELTS

& OPEN SPACE

by Dr. Oakleigh Thorne, II

I

n the year 1908, that’s 114 years ago, Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. came to Boulder at the request of the Boulder City Improvement Association, a group of private citizens. His father, Frederick Senior, had done the plans for Central Park in New York City. They became the very first landscape planners! So in 1910, Frederick Junior, created a plan called “The Improvement of Boulder, Colorado.” It became known as “The Olmsted Report.”

He suggested that the land on both sides of Boulder Creek be protected as a park or “greenbelt.”

In the 1920s, the City of Boulder purchased the Mountain Parks land that included the Flatirons, but unfortunately did not include the mesas in front of them.

Our bumper sticker said “ENCHANTED MESA, YES!” It wasn’t until 1959 that the citizens of Boulder passed the “Blue Line,” above which the city was not allowed to supply water or sewer service. This was to tem-

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porarily halt any possible upward growth that would harm the scenic backdrop of Boulder.

Then in the early 1960s, PLAN-Boulder, a citizen “watchdog” group, and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board were established. I was a member of both.

We then made a joint effort to protect the mesas. The first one was Enchanted Mesa, just south of Chautauqua. Its private landowner was planning to build 200 homes and a resort hotel there. The City floated a bond issue for $105,000 (the appraised value) to buy this mesa. It passed successfully. The owner refused to sell, so it went to Condemnation Court. The judge said to pay the owner $115,000, so we had a private campaign and raised the extra $10,000 and this mesa was preserved as open space! Our bumper sticker said “ENCHANTED MESA, YES!” The next mesa south was Table Mesa.

At that time, Dr. Waler Orr Roberts, head of the High Altitude Observatory at the University of Colorado, came to us with the plan to buy about 500 acres of this mesa and establish the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). This was to be funded by the National Science Foundation. One building would be constructed designed by a world-class architect, I. M. Pei. This would also bring many well-known scientists to Boulder.

Since the city did not have the funds to buy this mesa, we felt that the NCAR proposal was a good compromise to having nothing built there.

Since this land was above the Blue Line, an exception had to be voted on by the citizens of Boulder.

PLAN-Boulder came out in favor and the voters passed it. NCAR was built.

...our bumper sticker said “GREENBELTS, YES!” Then, in 1967, we had a campaign to pass a sales tax to buy greenbelts. My nonprofit organization, Thorne Ecological Institute, re-published 500 copies of the Olmsted Report that we passed out to community leaders, and our bumper sticker said “GREENBELTS, YES!” The sales tax passed! The city then established the Open Space Department.

This gave the city the ability to buy the rest of the mesa land, which included the famous Mesa Trail from Boulder to Eldorado Springs. Lots of other open space land was preserved and the sales tax was usually renewed when it was necessary.

In the 1990s, Open Space and Mountain Parks were combined into one department (OSMP).

I felt that it was important for Boulder County Kids to have this history written down for both parents and the young people coming along who will hopefully always continue to protect our wonderful Boulder open spaces!

Dr. Thorne is founder and president of Thorne Nature Experience (formerly Thorne Ecological Institute), a nonprofit organization headquartered in Boulder. For 68 years they have helped “connect youth to nature!” For information about their programs, please check their website at www.thornenature.org or email or call (303) 499-3647, ext.100.

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VIRTUAL directory

best things that came out Oof thehepandemic is the accessibiline of t

ty to so many new resources online. Our world became fully VIRTUAL for the first time ever!

If you are worried about the spread of the new variants or just prefer to live a little more virtually, check out these great resources in our Virtual Directory.

Parlando School of Musical Arts—Boulder Pursue your musical and theatrical passions with Parlando School of Musical Arts! Our talented faculty teach all ages, all abilities, and all instruments, including piano, voice/singing, musical theater, and acting. Try a starter pack, online or limited in-person, or dive into a full semester or school year of lessons! With 50 faculty members, over 700 lessons occurring every week, and classes, performances, and workshops held throughout the year, we have something for everyone. Join our musical community and ignite your inner artist! **Please see our ad on the back cover for a special offer!

W: www.parlando.org — E: info@parlando.org ­— P: (303) 442-0006 IG: @parlandoboulder — FB: Parlando School of Musical Arts

Online with Renaissance Adventures Ages 7-17. Join our online role-playing (RPG) adventures where everyone gets to be a hero! Outwit a dragon, solve mysteries and riddles, battle foes, and negotiate for freedom in an effort to save the kingdom of a mythical land. Choose from Adventure Quest or Dungeon Delvers for an unforgettable game live on Zoom led by our talented quest leaders. Our day-off school holiday camps, game nights, and summer camps keep youth engaged and connected through play.

W: www.renaissanceadventures.com E: info@RenaissanceAdventures.com ­— P: (303) 786-9216

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SUMMER HORSE CAMP !!

Weekly: May 30 through August 14

“Horse” Camp for kids age 9-12 yo

“Pony” Camp for kids age 6-8 yo

Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Wednesday - Friday 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

www.AcademyStables.com▪ 4277 N. 109th Street Lafayette, CO 80026 ▪ 303-665-4637

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Childcare services, tutoring, online education services, and other great recommendations from within the community.

HELPFUL SERVICES directory

Strength in Motion A community of expert psychotherapists and businesses who are here for you. We believe in a mind, body, and soul approach towards finding and sustaining balance. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, marriage counseling, men’s issues, life transitions, ADHD, and more.

We work collaboratively with our clients to facilitate sustainable positive change.

P: (720) 389-8750 E: info@simcounseling.com W: www.simcounseling.com

Premier Members Credit Union 5505 Arapahoe, Boulder Banking and savings, for all your banking needs.

P: 303-442-8850 W: www.pmcu.org

Boulder Valley School District The only BVSD Youth and Family Resource Guide.

Find services and activities your family needs. Tutoring, counseling, the arts, child care, support services, college planning, cooking, birthday parties, and more.

P: 720-561-5977 W: www.guide.bvsd.org

Cultural Care Au Pair Affordable, flexible childcare with the added element of a cultural exchange. These young foreigners have childcare backgrounds and are eager to be a part of your family. They care for your children in exchange for the opportunity to live with an American family and have a unique experience.

These relationships can last for years and bring depth to your child’s vision of the world. Up to 45 hours per week of childcare.

P: 303-956-6189 - Jen Rodehaver E: jen.rodehaver@lcc.culturalcare.com W: www.culturalcare.com/jrodehaver

HOW TO HELP // RESOURCES regarding the Marshall and Middle Fork Fires.

Boulder Office of Emergency Management We know this is a very difficult time for all those impacted by the Marshall Fire. We want you to know we are here to help.

Visit www.boulderoem.com for more info.

The Community Foundation Serving Boulder County Community Foundation Boulder County is a trusted partner with a long track record of meeting the community’s needs in times of crisis. The Boulder County Wildfire Fund will support the immediate needs of Coloradans impacted by the fires and provide the support needed in the months and years to come.

Visit www.coloradogives.org/WordofThanks FireFund for more info.

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Colorado Responds The leading resource for individuals giving and agencies seeking help in the face of a disaster. Find ways to donate, volunteer, and more during times of crisis in your community and across the state of Colorado.

Visit www.coloradoresponds.org/wildfires for more info.

In an effort to support our community after the recent fires, BCK will be donating 10% of Spring 2022 Issue proceeds to local organizations helping to build back the community.

bouldercountykids.com • 19

What do I do now,

ROMONA?

Drawing by Fritz Scholder

Romona Scholder, M.A., RNCS Psychotherapist

Q: I don’t particularly get along well with the mom

of my daughter’s new friends. Our children are the exact same ages and love to play, but the mother is a bit difficult to be around as our political values don’t align and she doesn’t let me forget it. How can I avoid spending time with this family without my daughter fully knowing the reason?

Signed , frustrated mama

Q: My daughter is very fickle when it comes to af- A: Getting along with our neighbors has become ter school activities. She tries one thing and decides she doesn’t like it. How can I encourage her to stick with an activity without feeling like I’m forcing her to do something she hates?

A:

Signed , mother of a 9 y/o

Perseverance, grit, and determination are all words to describe a quality in all of us that guarantees a better chance at a successful life. This is a skill that can be taught and learned at an early age. It has been pointed out that we are born with grit as it takes determination to learn how to crawl and then eventually to walk and finally to run, to become mobile! Walking didn’t come easily. It involved lots of practice, many falls and finally success. We know how to do hard things and we just have to tap into that knowledge of how to master a skill through determination and practice. I remember learning how to ski as an adult. I wanted to be a “natural”, someone who took to it like a “duck to water”. But alas, I was not a natural. I had to practice, I had to take lessons and fall a lot. But I wanted to learn to ski and I did. I wanted to learn to play the piano as a young girl. I never became a concert pianist, but I learned that proficiency comes with practice.

We can foster perseverance in children by modeling that behavior ourselves. Being careful not to say, “That’s too hard” or “I was never good at athletics or math myself.” Instead teach them that their brain is like a muscle and that school is like going to the gym for their brain, that learning is like exercise. It takes repetition and focus and concentration. Doing hard things just takes more practice and not quitting. Finish what you start. When your child starts a new thing, part of the deal should be that she must not quit for an agreed upon length of time. We have all had to learn to do hard things that we didn’t like to do. Liking something is nice but not necessary to the learning process.

DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR ROMONA? Email your question to info@bouldercountykids.com

20 • bouldercountykids.com

more problematic in the last decade or two. Tolerance of another’s views has been harder to achieve.

Remember when people used to say, “Never discuss religion or politics.” Or “Can we just agree to disagree?” and then get on to a discussion of a neutral subject.

My closest and dearest relatives are of different religious and political beliefs than my own so those topics rarely come up in conversation.

Do you need to befriend this woman because your child likes her child? Certainly, be cordial, but limit the amount of time you spend together one on one.

Do not say negative things about her in front of your daughter. The world is filled with situations you cannot control, but you can control what you say in front of or around your daughter.

Q: I think I speak for everyone (in the world) but also particularly in the Boulder community when I say how hard these past two years have been. It’s even more difficult to think about how hard it has been for our children in their formative years. Although my son hasn’t shown any out of the norm (the new normal that is) signs for help, should I be proactively seeking a therapist for him to make sure that he is processing everything in a healthy way?

Signed , anxious father

A: Yes, this has been a difficult 2 years for everyone,

especially for children. None of us had been prepared for it and we all had to adapt quickly to a situation that took us by surprise. But I wonder why no one talks about the positive things that have come out of the lockdown. We’ve had to learn to be cheerfully adaptable and I think your children are going to need that skill for the future. Change is coming at a furious pace and adaptability may be necessary to navigate it successfully. Our family units were strengthened. We came to rely on each other much more than in the past. Maybe we even got to know each other better.

We sat around the dining room table, Mom and Dad on their computers for work and the children on their school computers. We learned how to play together and eat together and have alone time in a crowded household.

It sounds like your family has come through this strange time relatively well. I think preventive psychotherapy is a good idea but best left to the schools. The Boulder Public School system has therapists/counselors available to your son. I hope that they would also proactively address the problems with re-entry and processing the effects, both good and bad, of the past 2 years for all the students.

PROTECT YOUR CHILD Drowning is the leading cause of injury related death for 1-4 year olds. Our highly experienced, professional staff will teach your child life saving aquatic survival skills in 3-6 weeks.

795 S. Sherman St., Longmont • www.SwimFloatSwim.com

bouldercountykids.com • 21

Integrated Love S

pringtime is the time for new beginnings. There seems to be growth everywhere as the seasons change. This idea can also be applied to meaningful inclusion as there’s always an opportunity to grow. Disability education and learning about meaningful inclusion sets all kids up for success. It provides children with the ability to identify differences across all backgrounds instead of pretending those differences don’t exist. It’s time to grow our ideas with some new exploration in books and apps!

BOOKS BOOKS

It is so important for kids to see themselves represented in literature, and furthermore, for them to see representation of children who are different from them.

Numerous read alouds will help children learn this and it will give various opportunities for discussion on whatever topic the book may be about The Perfect Project: A Book about Autism

by Dr. Tracy Packiam Alloway: When Charlie’s class has to do a project on trains, can he use his SEN Superpowers to help his group get the job done? The Perfect Project​ explores the topic of autism with an empowering story and adorable illustrations.

Yes I Can!-A Girl and Her Wheelchair by Kendra J Barrett: Carolyn is a happy, energetic, caring first-grader who just happens to be in a wheelchair. She’s excited to start her new year of school and make new friends. Yes I Can! follows Carolyn on a typical day at home, at school, and even on a field trip! She can do almost everything the other kids can, even if sometimes she has to

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TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY do it a little differently.

Technology is a cornerstone of our world today and there are so many great apps and websites that help make the world more accessible for everyone! Digital literacy for kids is more important than ever today and these apps promote education and understanding through a digital format.

Choiceworks is an app for helping children complete daily routines and tasks, understanding and controlling feelings and to improve their patience. Parents, caregivers, therapists, etc. have all used this app and it is well reviewed by all. Works well with any child who struggles with executive functioning skills or even building an educational foundation for preschoolers!

Speech Blubs is a Speech Therapy app that uses voice controlled and video technology to develop speech articulation for young children with or without speech difficulties. The app has thousands of activities that aid over practice of speech sounds in a fun and engaging way.

Spring has sprung and with it new ideas for meaningful inclusion for our children with and without disabilities. Hope you enjoy and join us next time for more resources and places!

By Katie Buckley Katie Buckley is a high school special education teacher who teaches in a program for students with cognitive disabilities. She was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, before going to Texas to get her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Special Education from Texas Christian University.

YOUR AD HERE EMAIL ADVERTISING@BOULDERCOUNTYKIDS.COM OR HEAD TO BOULDERCOUNTYKIDS.COM TO LEARN MORE.

bouldercountykids.com • 23

8 Ways Your Kids Benefit From Hiking

S

ometimes hiking with children can be difficult. You spend the time researching the perfect trail, pack all the snacks, properly dress your kids and travel to your destination just to make it to the trailhead with a cranky kid who is just not interested in adventuring today.

Encouraging your kids to push through their less-than-ideal moodiness may not be enjoyable, but it does come with an abundance of benefits!

Exercise Okay, this may be the most obvious benefit, but it’s still worth mentioning!

Hiking moves little bodies and builds strength. Nourishing the cardio-respiratory & musculoskeletal at an early age is fundamental for healthy bodily growth.

Exploration Curiosity and wonder spark creativity and a love of learning. Children who grow up constantly exploring their surroundings learn how to ask questions and seek out answers. Exposing children to various types of environments expands this exponentially.

Building confidence Confidence can be inspired by the reassurance of loved ones, but it can also be earned through adversity. Kids who fall and pick themselves back up learn that they are resilient and are capable of doing hard things. Watching my son grow from a

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timid toddler to a self-confident preschooler has been one of the biggest joys of my life—and I mostly attribute this growth to his time spent pushing through on the trails.

Learning to lead Anyone can be the first in line, but not all can lead.

Leadership involves taking others into account and helping them succeed.

When leading a hike, encourage your little one to go at a speed that works for the group, point out items of interest, and assist in difficult passages.

Discovering nature While reading books about wild birds or the five most common plants in the Rocky Mountains is excellent, actually encountering local flora and fauna is so much more exciting. Photos of eagles don’t do justice to experiencing their flight patterns and hunting techniques. Hiking brings these pages to life in ways even videos couldn’t! Allowing your child to use their senses while learning is a wonderful gift to give them.

Connecting to their environment and family Having time away from screens and toys to focus on where they’re currently standing and who they’re walking beside is something we should all prioritize.

Bonding with our children away from all the distractions of home is invaluable and boosts the familial connection. Environmental bonding also encourages the practice of “leave no trace,” a boost to the community and a lesson in responsible living.

Stress relief Aerobic related endorphins pump through their bodies with each step of any given hike. These endorphins are natural stress relievers. Add in a healthy dose of vitamin N(ature), and you’ve got a recipe for a natural mood boost and mental health lift!

Enhances problem solving abilities Ever wonder what your kids are thinking when facing situations that require problem solving? Do you think they tackle it from an abstract angle, or a tactile one?

Allowing children to encounter problem solving opportunities on the trail gives them concrete memories to pull from in the future. While hiking, children need to figure out how to climb over rocks larger than their leg length. They need to cross streams without getting soaked.

They need to maneuver around mud.

There are countless encounters that allow your children to practice real-life problem solving while hiking.

In those moments when your kid is grumpy and you wonder why you even bother getting them on the trail, remember these benefits.

by Allison Burch Allison is a Denver Metro resident who has commited to facilitating a bond between her kids and nature. She shares that journey with you through her blog (PurpleMountainMama.com) and her Instagram account (@PurpleMountainMama) in the hope that it inspires you to do the same.

Children that have a relationship with nature tend to seek the good for their community which benefits the world as a whole.

bouldercountykids.com • 25

UPLIFTING PICTURE BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS GOING THROUGH A HARD TIME

by Pam Martin

G

iven the devastating impacts of the recent Marshall and Middle Fork Fires, we’re focusing this month’s book recommendations on themes of resilience. For those of you who’ve been displaced, who’ve lost cherished possessions and experienced breaks to established routines, the following picture books offer sparks of hope—the hope that springs from the warmth of friendship, for example, or from the act of persistence, from rising up after defeat, and in the healing embrace of the out-of-doors.

Amos McGee Misses the Bus by Philip

C. Stead, with illustrations by Erin E. Stead, is a heartwarming sequel to the cherished Caldecott Medal winner, A Sick Day for Amos McGee. Ten years after the original book was released, young readers are reunited with the same lovable cast of characters in a tale that illustrates how kind deeds have a way of multiplying life’s blessings.

When the eternally kind Amos McGee takes an impromptu nap at the breakfast table, he later misses the bus, which puts an end to his plans for taking his friends at the zoo on an outing. After a long walk to work, he’s once again overcome by sleep, and tortoise, penguin, elephant, and others step in, taking care of Amos’s chores, which means (hurrah!) the trip to the beach can happen after all. The small mouse and bird from the first book return, offering their own quiet sup-plot that celebrates how an act of kindness can sometimes lead to fun possibilities for all.

The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires is about a “regular girl” (and her dog, Max), who sets out to create something astounding. But after much planning, hammering, and tinkering, the thing is not so magnificent after all. In fact, it’s not even “kind-ofsort-of okay.” She tries again. And again. But it’s still… bleh. She feels defeated and angry, so Max suggests a walk, and the fresh air and change of scene help our young protagonist see her invention from a new perspective.

Each of the “failures,” it turns out, offers something useful in the magnificent thing’s final version—a sidecar for Max—which she attaches to her scooter, and the two zip away, a fitting conclusion to a story about not giving up, and about how creativity often has a way of finding its own path.

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We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom is a story inspired by recent Indigenous-led movements aimed at protecting North America’s precious water supplies. The story is both a poetic rallying cry and a celebration of Indigenous culture, and Michaela Goade became the first Indigenous person to win the Caldecott Medal in that honor’s 83-year history for her vibrant illustrations.

The story speaks to North American tribes’ resilience in the face of a long history of oppression, as can be felt in the repeating, rhythmic refrain: We stand With our songs And our drums.

We are still here.

Because water affects and connects us all, writes the author in the book’s afterward, “It’s time we all became stewards of our planet.”

A lyrical tribute to black American triumphs, The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander, with illustrations

by Caldecott medalist Kadir Nelson, is also about standing tall through years of tribulations. The story references Jesse Owens, Langston Hughes, and Gwendolyn Brooks, in language that speaks to their ground-breaking achievements, as the author likewise honors the accomplishments of individuals who are currently thriving/enduring/accomplishing in the present.

The book began its life as a poem Alexander wrote when his daughter was born. According to the afterward, he was inspired, in part, by a Maya Angelou quote about how sometimes a particular defeat might be necessary in order to “know who we are—so that we can see, oh, that happened,” the quote continued, “I did get knocked down in front of the whole world, and I rose.” It’s in the rising afterward that matters, according to the author.

Outside In by Deborah Underwood, with illustrations by Cindy Derby, reminds us that we’re all part of a much wider universe, a lesson that’s re-affirmed every time we step into the vastness of the out-of-doors.

The story’s watercolor illustrations are the star here, providing a lush and colorful counterpoint to the more muted tones depicted in its pages of indoor activities. Even in winter, when Underwood claims “we forget outside is there,” the illustrations point to the brightness of the birds snuggled deep in the tree boughs. Outside nourishes us, young readers learn, as sun, rain, and seeds become warm bread. But more importantly, perhaps, Underwood tells us that outside feeds our need to connect with its quiet stillness, and with the continual re-discovery expressed in its vivid and limitless life.

Pam Martin is the book specialist at Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe in Boulder. For more information, please visit grtoys.com.

bouldercountykids.com • 27

THE

CAMPS directory

ABC Kids Climbing 1960 32nd Street Summer Camps—Boulder Ages: 5 years & older

Hours & Days: Indoor camps are M-F or M-W. 9 am - 3 pm or 9 am - noon.

Indoor and outdoor day camp options. Days are filled with climbing, outside games, arts and crafts, and field trips. Outdoor camps are packed with climbing, adventure, and Fun!

Academy Stables

Ages: 6 - 12 years old Hours & Days: “Horse Camp”: M-F, 9:00am-2:00pm. “Pony Camp”: W-F, 9:00am-12:00pm.

This year we are offering two camp options in order to provide more comprehensive and age appropriate instruction. We will offer a full week (“Horse camp”) option for kids 9-12 years old and a half week (“Pony camp”) option for kids 6-8 years old.

“Pony camp” is an introduction to horses for younger kids. They will learn about how to handle horses and how to prepare the horse for riding. They will also learn the basics of basic horsemanship to begin building a horse/human partnership for the mutual respect and enjoyment of the rider AND the horse. The objective of “Horse camp” is to learn and practice the above skills as

Airborne Gym The morning blocks (8:30-12) are

Ages: 4 - 12 years Hours & Days: M-F. 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. May 31 - August 12. Halfdays & single days available!

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ninja and gymnastics camps; students will play games, learn ninja, tumbling & gymnastics skills, meet friends, & get plenty of exercise. Our afternoon blocks (1-4:30) are theme camps. Instead of a physical focus, theme campers will have a play-based experience during their different rotations around the gym. Airborne Dance offers our popular Prince & Princess camps for ages 3-6 from 9:30-11:45 on M & W. Our professional dance staff will have students dancing, crafting, playing games, & spending time in the gym. Airborne Dance

Kids will climb in areas such as the Flatirons, Eldorado Canyon, and Boulder Canyon. At this time parents are required to drop off and pick up their children from the climbing area. See ad.

P: (303) 443-5437 E: info@abckidsclimbing.com W: www.abckidsclimbing.com

well as the basic skills of riding.

Kids in horse camp will learn and practice the “four aids”, and good leg, hand, & seat position as they learn and practice walk, trot, halt, reverse. We are excited and proud about the addition of the concept horsemanship and groundwork into our summer camps. We think it’s important to develop good stewards of the sport instead of merely teaching the mechanics of riding. We think riders should understand the WHYs behind what we do.

C: Kristin E: kklinger313@gmail.com W: www.AcademyStables.com

also offers two weeks of camps for beginning and intermediate level dancers (ages 6-14): Put on a Show Camp and So You Think You Can Dance Camp. Dancers will design a set, learn choreography, & be assigned a role, all in one fabulous week! In So You Think You Can Dance camp, dancers will explore different genres of dance—learning terminology, choreography, even history & famous stars!

P: (303) 651-1456 E: longmont@airbornegym.com W: www.airbornegym.com

BackStory Theatre Ages: 3 -18 years —Broomfield Hours & Days: Day camp.

BackStory has offered high-quality theater education, exploration, and performances to enrich our community for over 15 years.

Along with year-round after school programs and auditioned performance opportunities, we offer unique summer camps

Bixby Summer Camp Ages: 2.5 years -6th grade —Boulder Hours & Days: 9 am - 3 pm; Ex-

tended care available 8 am - 5 pm.

Bixby Summer Camp is located on three shady acres with unique play structures, an indoor swimming pool, a basketball court, and a sports field. Variety of activities includes swimming, field

B-Fit Studio Ages: 6 - 12 years —Boulder B-fit coaches b-lieve fitness can

be made fun! And we know you already know how to B-cool! So B-yourself! Our camp is designed to help you speed, strength, agility, power and b-alance.

While at the hive, we expect and hold true to the motto “Work hard and B-Nice to people.”

B-Fit offers Spring and Summer Camps for people 6-12 years old.

Each day you will focus on an element of athleticism while using some of our favorite tools, including the TRX and Fitwall! Fitwall is a unique, vertical training apparatus and not to be missed! Campers will get fitter, faster, stronger

CAMPS DIRECTORY

and activities designed to build confidence and embrace the teamwork essential to creating art! Fees vary. Register online or contact us.

P: (720)263-0836 E: info@backstorytheatre.org W: www.backstorytheatre.org

trips, arts & crafts, sports, gardening, science, water games, and special guests and performances.

See ad.

P: (303) 494-7508 E: summer@bixbyschool.org W: www.bixbyschool.org

and learn how to live healthier lifestyles. Each day will include the best camp games, fun drills, and proof that fitness is fun!

Early-bird pricing and registration available. Feel free to reach out for details or questions. We are aware some of our requirements are more restrictive than CDC’s.

Please be symptom-free and vaccinated, or wear masks for in-person sessions. Online camps available if opting out of those requirements or are symptomatic.

P: (303) 449-5855 W: www.boulderfitnesstraining. com

ing and performing arts. Blossom Blossom International Ages: 2.5 - 6 years Hours & Days: M-F. June 6 to July International Preschool, LLC is Preschool—Boulder 29th. 8 am to 5 pm.

(Est. 2000) Blossom International Preschool offers a Waldorf-inspired curriculum blended with French language and multicultural education . Camp activities are taught in French and English: sewing, arts and crafts, jewelry design, music, singing, storytell-

Cherryvale Day Camps Ages: 4 - 12 years at Boulder JCC Hours & Days: M-F. 9 am- 4 pm.

Sessions begin on June 6 and run through August 12.

Cherryvale Day Camp is the Boulder JCC day camp program located on-site at the Boulder JCC. We offer a variety of programs including a classic day camp program, along with two-week specialty programs including Milk and Honey Farm, musical, and more. Cherryvale Day Camp at the Boulder JCC includes time

fully licensed. $405/week.

P: (303) 819-4084 E: info@blossombilingualpre school.com W: www.blossominternational preschool.com

at our farm, sports, arts & crafts, sprinkler time, exploring nature, and more. Want to learn more about Cherryvale Day Camp programs? Join us during one of our virtual Campfire Meet and Greets which are scheduled for the first Thursday of each month at 12:30 pm MT. P: (303) 998-1900 E: julia.paeglis@boulderjcc.org W: boulderjcc.org/camps bouldercountykids.com • 29

CAMPS DIRECTORY following Covid mandates. Over Boulder Performing Ages: 5 - 13 years Hours & Days: M-F. 9 am to 3 pm.

40 years in Boulder. Starting at Arts Co.—Boulder Friday performances.

Developing skills in singing, acting, dancing, painting & storytelling. Our camps are fun and encourage everyone to work as a team but shine like a star. Every camper will develop self confidence. Everyone gets a challenge. One week camps 5-9 years and Adv. camps 2 & 3 weeks ages 8-13 years. All camps are

BVSD Never Bummer Hours: Mornings: 9 am to 12:30 Summer Camps! pm. Afternoons: 12:30 pm to 4

pm. Full-day: 8:30 am to 4 pm.

At five BVSD summer hubs, enjoy half-day Enrichment Camps or Day Camps from June 6-July 29. BVSD Lifelong Learning will offer hundreds of morning or afternoon Enrichment Camps including skateboarding, robotics, chess, filmmaking, cooking,

Camp Oonie Koonie 7520 S Boulder Rd Cha—Boulder Ages: 4 - 9 years

Hours & Days: M-F. 9 am - 12:30 pm. Week 1: June 6-10. Week 2: June 13-17.

Pull on your boots and polish your spurs for an action packed wild west music camp. Ride the range and barrel race on your own handmade painted ponies, listen to coyote tales, make handmade instruments including a guitar and agogo, and sing the old cowpoke songs around “the camp fire”. Every child will make instruments, learn songs and

Children’s House 3370 Iris Walk Ct Preschool—Boulder Ages: 3.5 -6 years

Hours & Days: 8:30 am - 1:00 pm.

M-Th - book by the day or by the week. June 13 - July 28 & August 15-25.

Come to our little red schoolhouse and aboard our new school bus as we take trips to local creeks, ponds, pools, gardens, forest trails and explore different parks. Jump on a Strider bike, or learn to ride one, as we discover the bike trails that go from our school through local neighborhoods and along creeks.

Our farm tubs at the school and our community garden plot give

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$395.00. Register online $100.00 deposit, balances due the first day of camp.

C: Pollyanna Demitro P: (303) 859-4195 E: boulderperformingarts2@ gmail.com W: www.boulderperformingarts. com

LEGO and much more! At the same locations, BVSD Child Care will offer full-day camps with crafts, STEM activities, outdoor fun, games and cultural activities.

W: LLL.BVSD.org (Enrichment Camps) W: childcare.BVSD.org (Day Camps)

stories, get a t-shirt and digital cd of the songs and stories collecting magical, musical memories of an unforgettable week. Camp integrates science, art, drama, a xylophone orchestra thru music.

Teachers are experienced educators in early childhood with a low student teacher ratio of 8:1.

Optional Lunch Bunch Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 12:30 - 1:30 $20/day.

C: Amy Haywood & Laura Nordson P: (303) 880-9494 E: bouldercampokc@gmail.com W: www.campokc.com

children the opportunity to plant, water, weed, and harvest food grown from seed. Local farmers provide fresh produce to us on a weekly basis for children to wash, prepare, and cook delicious snacks. Children will get to visit various local farms to meet the farmers and their animals. Sign up now as we have limited our enrollment to 10-12 children a day.

Adventure awaits! Cost: $60 per day or $200 per week.

C: Michael Knuckey P: (303) 444-6432 E: michael@childrenshousepre school.org

CAMPS DIRECTORY Center for Musical Arts 200 East Baseline Road —Lafayette Ages: All

Music lessons, classes, ensembles, camps. We offer music programs for all ages and abilities, including summer camps, Music in Motion for all ages (including

City of Lafayette Ages: 5 - 12 years

Hours & Days: M-F, from 7:30 am to 6 pm, with half-day options.

Summer Day Camp runs from June 6 through August 5.

School is out and summer fun is in! We offer a wide variety of activities including arts and crafts, STEM, active play, sports and games, swimming, field trips, and more. Children will have time to tap into their creativity during

Front Range Anglers 2344 Pearl Street —Boulder Ages: 9 - 14 years

Hours & Days: M-F. 9 am to 3 pm.

June 6-10, June 20-24, July 11-15, July 25-29.

Guides hand-picked, CBI background, & CPR certified. Hosted on local Boulder waters, our coed kid’s camp will build a foundation for a lifetime of learning about fly fishing. Safety and a quality fishing experience is our

The Food Lab Ages: 6 - 12 years —Boulder Hours & Days: 9 am - 12 pm & 1 -

4 pm. May 31 - week of August 8.

Cooking camps all summer long.

Camp themes: Latin, Baking, Asia, Italy. $335/week.

Friends School Summer Programs —Boulder

Getting Ahead this Summer with Just2 Tutoring

0-4), jazz & musical theater ensembles, lessons on all instruments + voice, and more.

W: www.centerformusicalarts. org

free play and choice activity times. Camp Happy Trails and Full STEAM Ahead Camps. Staff are trained and certified within the the State of Colorado Licensing Rules and Regulations.

C: Jordan Walker P: (303) 661-1288 E: jordan.walker@lafayetteco.gov W: www.lafayetteco.gov/1948/ Summer-Camps #1 goal of our camp as we work with a 3:1 guide to angler ratio.

Price: $650.00 for the week or $750.00 w/ Orvis Encounter Rod/ Reel Kit. All campers will receive a complimentary 1 year Trout Unlimited membership!

P: (303) 494-1375 E: antonio@frontrangeanglers. com W: www.frontrangeanglers.com P: (303) 953-8364 E: events@foodlabboulder.com W: www.foodlabboulder.com/ kids-summer-camp

Ages: 3 -14 years Hours & Days: Weeklong, morning, & afternoon sessions. June 6 - July 28.

Day camp. Preschool, elementary, and middle school programs.

Preschool Backyard Camp, science, cooking, performing arts, art, music, sports, and more.

Licensed and accredited. Discounts available for early registration. View complete details and register online or call.

Whether your child needs to maintain, accelerate or remediate their skills, get them connected to a highly qualified coach to lead a path to credit recovery or acquisition, prepare for a transition or complete a passion project this summer. Just2 is a leader in executive function

skills, focus coaching while providing expert academic support.

C: Ailish McAndrew P: (303) 499-1999 W: www.friendssummercamp. org

P: (720) 584-6425 E: connect@just2tutoring.com W: www.just2tutoring.com

bouldercountykids.com • 31

CAMPS DIRECTORY Garden to Table Ages: 6 - 9 years

Hours & Days: M-F. 9 am to 12:30 pm.

Garden to Table has been partnering with schools in BVSD for 15 years, providing gardens and curriculum to ensure all students have the opportunity for garden-based learning. At Garden Camp you will spend the morning exploring a school garden.

Activities include gardening, harvesting, preparing and eating garden-fresh snacks. You

Growing Gardens Children’s Peace Garden

Ages: 5 - 11 years Hours & Days: M-F. Full-day summer camps.

In-person. Join us for an active week of summer camp and experience the wonders of our urban farm. Camp themes include Field to Fork Cooking, Art and Photography, Magic and Mysteries on the Farm, and Survival

Longmont Climbing Ages: 4 - 13 years Collective Hours & Days: M-F. 9 am - 12 pm

and 9 am - 3 pm. June 7 - August 13.

This summer, June 2022, The Longmont Climbing Collective Summer Camp program kicks into high gear! Our programs are designed for various abilities, ages, and experience levels. Our expert coaches will ensure your climber has a blast, while also getting in a fun workout and an exciting learning experience. Our summer camps offer indoor exercise and activity in a fun and ac-

Longmont Museum 400 Quail Road

Ages: 3 -16 years Hours & Days: Day camps. June July. M-F. Discover history, art, music, culture, and technology in these hands-on camps. Learn from artists and musicians. Paint a masterpiece or become an archeol-

32 • bouldercountykids.com

will also put on your scientist hat to investigate soil, bugs, plants, and more. Nature crafts, STEM challenges, scavenger hunts, and games will round out the week.

This will be a fun camp with a variety of enriching activities for kids. $195 per week + $25 materials fee. Group size 10-15. Covid precautions will follow Boulder Valley District rules.

E: info@gardentotable.org W: www.gardentotable.org

Skills. We’ll tend to the garden, explore through the lens of art and science, and make tasty snacks from the bounty of our harvests. Register to save your spot by calling or online.

P: (303) 443-9952 W: www.growinggardens.org

tive environment. These camps will focus on climbing skill building and practice, team building oriented games, challenge and obstacle courses, as well as yoga for focus and flexibility.

C: Shauna Hylenski P: (720) 340-3640 E: info@longmontclimbingcollec tive.com W: www.longmontclimbingcol lective.com

ogist. Camps held indoors and outdoors at the Longmont Museum. For requirements, fees, and details call or visit our website.

P: (303) 651-8374 W: www.longmontmuseum.org

CAMPS DIRECTORY Miss Joanie Drama Ages: 4 - 11 years —Boulder Hours & Days: M-F. 8:30 am to

4:30 pm.

Using a theme specific to each week, children are guided to create adaptations of play from favorite story books. From Dr. Seuss and fairy tales to Fancy Nancy and animal stories, imaginations run wild as we write and perform plays with these themes. Free performances each Friday for friends and family. Laugh, play,

Mackintosh Academy 2022 Specialty Summer Camps

At Mackintosh Academy Boulder, we believe summers should be about your child’s passions, being creative, and digging in the dirt!

This summer we are offering specialty camps to fill your camper’s wildest dreams. We have specialized camps that allow students to create their own individualized experience with both half-day and full-day camp options. We are located on 23 beautiful acres with panoramic views of the Flatirons. Mack has a wonderful play-

Mudslingers Pottery Ages: 8 and up Studio—Lafayette Hours & Days: M-F. Day camp.

Morning sessions from 10 am - 12 pm.

Afternoon sessions from 1 - 3 pm.

Summer Clay Camps. Our 25th year! One-week classes, $175 per week, per child. Fun, professionally taught clay camp in full-service studio. Children receive handson instruction on potters’ wheel, slab, and sculpture methods,

Mountain Song Ages: 0 - 5 years Music Studio, Inc. Music Together ® OUTDOORS.

Singing, movement, instrument play. Small Groups, siblings welcome. Central Boulder Private Location. Also Private Piano Lessons In Person or Online (ages 5 and up). Following Covid Safety Protocol.

Northern Colorado 1949 33rd Street, Boulder Fencers Summer Camp Ages: 7 -13 years

Hours & Days: M-F. 9 am - noon (1 - 4 pm on selected weeks).

USFA coaches. All the instruction/ equipment needed for a safe and exciting experience. Runs most weeks throughout the summer.

Check out our website for camp/

explore and perform! Summer week long sessions from May 30 September 2, $350/week. Spring Break Camp is March 21 - 25, $350/week. Equipment needed: water bottle, lunch/snacks, sunscreen.

C: Joanie Rubald E: joanie@missjoaniedrama.com W: www.missjoaniedrama.com

ground and outdoor spaces, low ropes course, and a pond and stream for hands-on exploration and fun. For more information or to register, go to mackboulder. com. For a full list of camp descriptions check out our online 2022 camp brochure in Quick Links on our website.

E: enrichment@mackboulder. com W: www.mackboulder.com

creating pieces to be proud of in stoneware clays and high-fire glazes.

P: (303) 926-0996 E: info@mudslingerspottery.com W: www.mudslingerspottery. com

C: Jane Smolens, Director P: (303) 413-1120 W: www.mountainsongmusic. com

registration details and other great club activities! $195/week (multiple weeks/sibling discounts).

C: Gary Copeland P: (303) 443-6557 W: www.ncfencers.org

bouldercountykids.com • 33

CAMPS DIRECTORY Marine Science and Swim Mini Camps This Summer

3015 Bluff St, Boulder Hours & Days: M-Th. 12 pm - 2 pm.

Looking for safe and fun activities for your kids this summer? Join us for one of our marine science-focused programs offered through various weeks June-August. Taught through hands-on activities, crafts, and experi-

Open Hands Art Camp 7873 St. Vrain Rd. —Longmont Ages: 6 - 17 years

Open Hands Art Camp, now located on a small family farm between Boulder and Longmont, offers half day and full day camps throughout the summer for ages 6-17. Led by local artist, Page Zekonis and ceramic artist, Catharine Hull, our camp is designed to spark imagination, experimenta-

Off Broadway 1235 Pine Street, Boulder Preschool Ages: 2.5 -5 years

Hours & Days: June - August.

M-F. 8 am - 5:30 pm.

Summer camp at Off Broadway Preschool means lots of outdoor FUN and ADVENTURE. Each week is a different theme with activities, field trips to local attractions and in-house challenges to entertain and educate your child. Splash days twice a week.

Healthy snacks provided. Halfday, full-day and extended-day

Adventure Quest with Boulder & Denver Renaissance Adventures Ages: 6 - 17 years

Your child is the hero of a mythic quest in an incredibly fun, award-winning outdoor experience like none other! In small groups of like ages, children ages 6-17 read maps, solve mysteries and riddles, overcome dynamic challenges, and battle using safe, foam swords. Adventure Quest summer camps are designed to develop teamwork, critical think-

Dungeon Delvers with Boulder Renaissance Adventures Ages: 10 - 17 years

Join Renaissance Adventures for a tabletop RPG program that utilizes the Dungeons & Dragons® tabletop game system! Explore and create an adventure in the fantasy world of one of the most popular tabletop roleplaying games. Play as a powerful wizard, crafty rogue, swift warrior, mystical healer, or another exciting archetype. The hero’s journey is full

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ments, all of our summer camps will have your kids exploring and discovering the magic of the oceans followed by a half-hour swim lesson.

P: (303) 444-7234 E: swim@oceanfirst.blue W: www.oceanfirst.blue tion and creative fun in paint, clay and mixed media. Each week is limited to 12 campers divided into two groups of six.

C: Page Zekonis P: (720) 400-1319 W: www.openwindowstudio. org/2019-summer-camps-openhands-art

schedules. Choose your weeks or sign up for the whole summer for a discount. Call or go online for more information and the weekly themes.

C: Bethany P: (303) 800-0324 E: info@offbroadwaypreschool. org W: www.offbroadwaypreschool. org

ing, ethical reasoning, communication, and other skills for social emotional development. Highly-trained staff, and over 25 years experience make Renaissance Adventures a family favorite kids camp since 1995.

P: (303) 786-9216 E: info@renaissanceadventures. com W: www.RenaissanceAdventures. com of challenges – dangerous beasts, mythical monsters, negotiations, and mysteries to solve. Come play with RA’s expert game masters and story crafters in one of our in-person camps!

P: (303) 786-9216 E: info@renaissanceadventures. com W: www.RenaissanceAdventures. com

CAMPS DIRECTORY Rocky Ridge Music— Jumpstart: String Fundamentals

Estes Park Ages: 10 - 15 years Hours & Days: July 12 to July 17.

Residential summer music camp in Estes Park for true beginners ages 10-15! July 12 to July 17, 2022.

Learn the fundamentals of violin, viola, or cello. This 5-day residential summer camp program will prepare beginner young musicians for success in middle and high school programs with a solid, rudimentary foundation. Learn from expert teachers through private lessons and group classes in a supportive environment

that encourages fun. Students are guided to practice effectively and even parents are advised on how to help set up an ideal practice environment for their child at home. No audition required!

Students should be beginners or should have been taking private lessons for less than a year. Since 1942 we’ve been taking musical excellence to new heights, one student at a time.

C: Megan Quilliam P: (303) 449-1106 E: RRMC@RockyRidge.org W: www.RockyRidge.org

Rocky Ridge Music— Nuestras Raíces: Música Mariachi

Estes Park Ages: 10 - 15 years Hours & Days: July 19 to July 24.

Presented in partnership with Denver’s Latino Cultural Arts Center, Nuestras Raíces is an exciting new summer residential camp that explores the musical cultures of the Americas. In 2022, expert faculty members will guide beginners in the study of mariachi within a supportive and inspirational environment in

order to broaden students’ musical experience and knowledge.

No audition required and no prior experience necessary! Since 1942 we’ve been taking musical excellence to new heights, one student at a time.

Shining Mountain Ages: 2.5 - 7 years Waldorf School Immerse your child in the joy of

summer with Waldorf-inspired activities, crafting, and outdoor play on our beautiful 12-acre campus. Serving children from 2.5 to 7 years of age. Middle school sports camps are also available to

Singletrack Mountain Boulder Bike Adventures Ages: 7 - 17 years

Hours & Days: M-TH. SMBA has been creating champions on and off the bike through outdoor play, MTB skill development, team camaraderie, and fun in the Boulder County area for almost 30 years. Offering fun for all skill levels and mountain bike riding styles. Summer Day Camps include 4-day all girls and

C: Megan Quilliam P: (303) 449-1106 E: RRMC@RockyRidge.org W: www.RockyRidge.org

6th through 8th graders, including cross country/track & field, volleyball, and basketball.

W: shiningmountainwaldorf.org/ programs/summer-camps

co-ed camps for newer riders ages 7-13. Team programs include weekly summer part-time or full time all day programs, as well as spring and fall after school and weekend programs for riders ages 8-17 years. Seasonal overnight Adventure Trips also offered P: (303) 447-8014 E: info@lertprograms.com W: smba.lertprograms.com

bouldercountykids.com • 35

CAMPS DIRECTORY Storycamp Niwot

Ages: Grades 1 - 7 Hours & Days: Full days. M-F. Explore the forest, swing from trees, build obstacle courses, and bring your stories to life through aerial dance and stilt-walking. At Storycamp, with 38 acres of open space and a small wilderness of cottonwood trees, we combine circus, primal skills, art, and theater into a nature-based program that is child-directed and

Studio Arts Boulder

Studio Arts Boulder is offering week-long pottery camps for kids of all ages! Campers of all skill levels will have plenty of time to create and learn new techniques.

Wheel-throwing or hand-building camps run each morning and afternoon M-F with the option to add supervised lunch. Each in-

Sunflower Farm Longmont Summer Camps Ages: 5 - 10 years

Hours & Days: Full days, 9 am - 3 pm.

Weekly Summer camps beginning May 31st through Aug. 5th (Registration for summer begins on January 31st). School Age Weekly Camps. Choose 1 week or

Sunflower Preschool 3340 Dartmouth, 80305 Summer Camp Ages: 2.5 - 6 years

Hours & Days: M-F. Day Camp.

Part-time schedules available.

Sunflower celebrates 40 years of connecting young children to nature and their inherent sense of wonder! The Summer Camp emphasis at Sunflower is on outdoor activities and connecting children with nature. Sunflower is now a Certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom, a National Wildlife Federation certified wildlife habitat, as well as PACE certi-

Thorne Nature Boulder & Lafayette Summer Camp Ages: 3 -15 years

Hours: Day Camp.

Thorne Summer Camp has been connecting youth to nature for over 60 years and we know that KIDS GROW BETTER IN NATURE! Our unique camps focus on outdoor exploration, wilderness skills, and so much more. Thorne

36 • bouldercountykids.com

encourages collaboration. Practice archery, fire-building, puppet-making, and take part in a woodland performance. We field trip to mountains, museums, and places to swim. Our teachers are experienced educators, artists, and bushcraft specialists.

P: (603) 770-3358 W: storycampdangercamp.com

structor is background checked, CPR certified, and health screened before each day.

P: (720) 379-6033 E: contact@studioartsboulder. org W: www.studioartsboulder.org

multiple- Monday - Friday. $490/ per week (Discounted 4 day weeks, of 5/31 & 7/5: $395 for full day session.)

P: (303) 774-8001 W: www.sunflowerfarminfo.com

fied since 2008. We enjoy taking walks to Martin Park, gardening, water play, arts and crafts, and learning about native plants and animals. Please bring your own lunch, bathing suits, and towels.

See ad.

C: Marisa Ellman P: (303) 494-2012 E: sunflowerpreschoolboulder@ gmail.com W: www.sunflowerpreschool boulder.com

campers follow their passions, build confidence, and learn about and connect with nature, all while having a lot of FUN. Join us for your child’s best summer ever!

W: thornenature.org/summer-camp/

CAMPS DIRECTORY Tinker Art Studio 693B S. Broadway —Boulder Ages: 3.5 -16 years

Hours & Days: Day Camps. M-F. Half-day. 9 am to 12 pm or 1 pm to 4 pm.

Join us this Summer in our studio for a huge selection of art camps! We are excited to launch a series of Brand New for 2022 camps including Puppy Camp, Rainbow Sparkle Camp, Treasure Island, Pizza Party Camp, and Glow in the Dark Art Camp! We’ll also have our favorite staples like wheel throwing and hand build-

Tinker @ BMoCA 1750 13th St, Boulder

Ages: 5 - 16 years Hours & Days: Day Camps. M-TH. Half-day. 9 am to 12 pm or 1 pm to 4 pm.

Tinker Art Studio and Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA) have teamed up to bring a summer full of art camps to BMoCA’s beautiful space! Our fantastic lineup of camps include: Art at the Museum, Sculpt & Build, Art in Motion, Painters Camp, Realistic Drawing, Teen

TLC Learning Center

Wild Bear Nature Center

ing clay camps, Make & Play, Fairy Keepers Camp, Realistic Drawing, Origami, Teen Camps and so much more. Every day includes an art lesson, open art exploration, and time outdoors—led by experienced teachers. Celebrating our 11th year of summer camps in our convenient South Boulder location. See you in the studio!

P: (303) 503-1902 E: tinker@tinkerartstudio.com W: www.tinkerartstudio.com

Paint, Teen Draw, and Rainbow Sparkle Camp. We have great options for all artists! Every day includes an art lesson, open art exploration, and time outdoors— led by experienced teachers. This is the second year of our Tinker @ BMoCA camps and we are thrilled to be back. See you at the museum!

P: (303) 503-1902 E: tinker@tinkerartstudio.com W: www.tinkerartstudio.com

611 Korte Pkwy, Longmont Ages: 8 weeks - 6 years Hours & Days: M-F. 7:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Preschool and early child care. TLC Learning Center (formerly Tiny Tim) Colorado Shines Level 4 Program Rated. Preparing children for success by supporting the individual child has been our focus for over sixty years. Our Longmont center offers high-quality infant, toddler,

and preschool educational and pediatric therapy services in a yearround setting to successfully prepare children for academic and life success. See ad.

Nederland Ages: 3 -12 years Hours & Days: M-Th. 8 am - 4 pm.

June 7 - August 12.

Join Wild Bear Nature Center in the cool mountain air this summer!

Hike the mountain forests, play in the woods, discover the mountain water creatures, create art to take home and more! For ages 5-12 choose any combo of Mon/ Tues, Wed/Thurs, or all four days for each two-week session or all

summer long. Shuttle service from/ to Boulder available. $70/day, $20/ day Bear Cubs. Transportation: Yes. Appropriate outdoor clothing, lunch & snacks, water, and program-specific gear needed.

C: Lisa Stratton, Educational Services Manager P: (303) 776-7417 W: www.learningwithtlc.org

P: (303) 258-0495 E: registrar@wildbear.org W: www.wildbear.org

bouldercountykids.com • 37

CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL

directory

H

alf-day care, full-day care, music-focused, nature-focused, and more! Scout out the best child care organizations and early education programs in the Boulder area.

Blossom International 5001 Pennsylvania Avenue Preschool, LLC—Boulder Boulder, CO 80303

Ages: 2.5 - 6 years Hours & Days: 8 am - 5 pm. M-F. Year round.

Blossom International Preschool, LLC is a member of WECAN, CAEYC, CAFCC and AATF. We are a FARM to ECE preschool and the recipient of a 2020 Grant from Early Childhood Council of Boulder County (ECCBC).

Blossom International Preschool is a Waldorf-inspired, play- and nature-based Licensed Child Care Center in operation since 2015.

We follow a multicultural Waldorf inspired curriculum all year round and French language is integrated

Boulder Country 4820 Nautilus Ct. North Day School­— Preschool Ages: 2.5 - 8th grade

Hours & Days: half and full-day options: 8 am-1 pm or 8 am-3 pm.

M-F, 3-day and 5-day options for Preschool.

Licensed June-August/Camp.

After school care and enrichment classes available.

Accreditations: NAIS, ACIS, and Approved Middle Years International Baccalaureate School.

Boulder Country Day School, where academic distinction meets education with character. BCD is a top rated, accredited private school in Boulder, Colorado where every child has the opportunity to dis-

38 • bouldercountykids.com

into our daily rhythm and circle/ songs. We create a safe, nurturing and supportive environment, empowering children to explore and expand during their early years.

We celebrate U.S. and International festivals and holidays. We host mixed-age groups in a beautiful Waldorf-inspired environment. At Blossom, we celebrate diversity and we welcome families with children ages 2.5 to 6 years old.

C: Marie-Pierre Nicoletti P: (303) 819-4084 E: info@blossombilingualpre school.com W: blossominternationalpreschool. com

cover their own unique excellence.

BCD Preschool is a unique learning environment where teachers can build meaningful relationships with each student, nurture their strengths, and help them meet goals through focused, individualized attention. Every child deserves to be known and loved, and our small class sizes and low student/ teacher ratios empower us to live this value every day.

C: Susan Boyle P: (303)-527-4931 x 248 E: info@bouldercountryday.org W: www.bouldercountryday.org

CHILD CARE DIRECTORY Fairy Ring Garden— Longmont

Flagstaff Academy Preschool—Longmont

Friends School —Boulder

9147 Fleetwood Ave. Ages: 1 - 5 years Hours & Days: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.

Full-days and part-time. M-F. Licensed. Lifeways (Waldorf) Certified. Year round.

A small, play-based, outdoor-oriented home school for children ages one to five in North Longmont.

We see every child as unique and beautiful with unlimited potential.

They are seeds to be nurtured with love, guidance, and grace so that they might blossom into the fullest expression of who they are meant to be. Outdoor learning with gar-

dening and farm animals. Master’s degree teachers. Chemical free, eco-friendly environment. Waldorf/ Lifeways curriculum. Organic, all natural foods, many taken from our own garden. Natural, wood and sustainable toys. Non-profit school welcoming of diverse families, regardless of race, socio-economic status, or gender orientation. CCAP families welcome!

C: Ginger Johnson, M.Ed. P: (303) 507-7331 E: fairyringschool@gmail.com W: www.fairyringschool.org

2040 Miller Drive, Longmont 80501 Ages: 3 - 5 years Hours & Days: Full-Time: M-F, 7 am - 6 pm. Part-Time: M-Th; 8:30 - 11:15 am or 12:45 - 3:30 pm.

Now enrolling for the 22/23 school year. Flagstaff Academy offers both full-time and part-time preschool options for children ages 3 - 5.

Founded in 2009, our preschool incorporates the Core Knowledge Preschool Sequence Curriculum and Early Learning Developmental Guidelines. Children in the

preschool program develop both socially and academically, and discover that learning is fun through play-based activities. Unique learning opportunities include regular visits to our greenhouse/geo-conservatory classroom and teaching garden, and school library time.

5465 Pennsylvania Ages: 3 -5 years Hours & Days: Full-day: 9 am to 3 pm M-Th; 9 am to 1pm F; Half­-day: 9 am to 12 pm M-F. August - May/ Summer Camp A supportive community, committed to educating the whole child--head, hand, and heart. Outdoor-oriented classrooms connected to nature encourage learning through play and exploration with a focus on relationships, communication, art, nature immersion, and a foundation for pre-academic skills.

Small classes, low student teacher ratios, wide variety of high-quality materials and experiences. Specials including music, art and PE. Award-winning, master-level teachers with over 20 years of experience in each classroom. Personalized Affordable Tuition. ACIS accredited, NAIS member.

Lavender Hill Preschool 2115 Mallard Place —Longmont Ages: 2 - 6 years

Hours & Days: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.

M-F. Lavender Hill is a Waldorf-Inspired Preschool/Kindergarten. We emphasize imaginative play, art and creative activities, music, storytelling, nature and seasonal festivals.

C: Jeanna Peppler, Interim Preschool Director P: (303) 651-7900 W: www.flagstaffacademy.org

C: Melanie Leggett P: (303) 499-1999 E: info@FriendsSchoolBoulder.org W: www.FriendsSchoolBoulder.org

E: lavenderhillpreschool@gmail. com W: www.lavenderhillpreschool.com

bouldercountykids.com • 39

CHILD CARE DIRECTORY Off Broadway Preschool 1235 Pine Street

and families are given personalized attention. Meals are prepared inhouse using high quality organic ingredients. Our recently updated facility is conveniently located in downtown Boulder which allows us to take walking field trips to the Farmers Market, library and Museum of Boulder. Adjustments have been made to the facility and daily program to adhere to state, city and Early Childhood Council COVID-19 guidelines.

Ages: 3 - 5 years Hours & Days: M-F. Full- or halfdays from 8:30 am to 12:30 or 3:30 pm. Extended care 8 am to 5:30 pm. Year round.

At Off Broadway Preschool, we aim to inspire curiosity, creativity, and compassion in children and families through the arts. Our daily schedule balances child-directed play experiences with structured group classes in music, yoga, visual art, and integrated arts. We employ professional educators to guide children through the school day, and keep low teacher to student ratios (1:5) to ensure that children

Sunflower Farm Preschool and School Aged Program —Longmont

Sunflower Preschool —Boulder

40 • bouldercountykids.com

E: info@offbroadwaypreschool.org W: www.offbroadwaypreschool.org P: (303) 800-0324 C: Bethany

Ages: 5 - 8 years and 3 - 5 years Hours & Days: Half Day Program 8:30-12:30 or Full Day Program 8:303:00.

New this year-School-Age 10 week Summer Program, Ages 5-8: Backed by multiple requests, we are now offering a 10 week School-Aged Program, for ages 5-8, which begins on May 31st and runs through August 5th 2022. Students can come 1 Full Friday, 2, 3 4 or 5 half or full days per week for 10 weeks. Hours are 8:30 - 12:30 or 8:30 - 3 pm. Note July 4th we are closed. Tuition is under our Camp

3340 Dartmouth Ages: 2.5 - 6 years Hours & Days: Year round. Call for hours.

NOW ENROLLING. Licensed.

Celebrating 40 years, Sunflower Preschool is now a certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom, National Wildlife Federation certified wildlife habitat, as well as PACE certified since 2008. Sunflower Preschool, which opened its doors in 1981, offers a small, eco-friendly, play-based, hands-on, nurturing environment, where children learn through exploration and discovery.

At Sunflower, our classrooms are

page on our website.

Preschool SproutHouse Program Ages 3-5, is a 10 Week Summer Program from May 31st-August 5th, Half Day Program 8:30-12:30 or Full Day Program 8:30-3:00. Choose Mon/Weds, Tues/Thurs, 3 days, 4 days or 1 Full Friday. For registration for the preschool Summer Program, prices and more detailed information, please visit our SproutHouse Preschool webpage.

W: www.sunflowerfarminfo.com P: (303) 774-8001

Montessori-based with a science and nature emphasis. The teachers are well-paid professional ECE teachers who have been a part of the Sunflower staff for years. Please come and take a look at our unique children’s science museum as well as the multisensory outdoor environment.

E: sunflowerpreschoolboulder@ gmail.com W: www.sunflowerpreschoolboulder.com P: (303) 494-2012 C: Marisa Ellman

CHILD CARE DIRECTORY Thorne Nature Preschool Ages: 3 -6 years —Boulder & Lafayette Hours & Days: August – May school year, June – August Summer Camp.

Days: M-F, 2/3/5-day options. Hours: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, extended care available. Licensed.

Thorne Nature Preschool is built on the simple belief that kids grow better in nature. Our preschool offers a unique early childhood education experience where young children go to learn, grow, and reach their full potential through

TLC Learning Center —Longmont

611 Korte Pkwy, Longmont 80501 Hours & Days: M-F. 7:30 am -5:30 pm (full- and half-day options available) About TLC: We’ve been nurturing success in all kids for over 65 years!

Our childcare, preschool and therapy center focuses on helping kids of all abilities develop the cognitive,

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children Babies and es p to 300 tim u h g u la n a c nly s typically o . a day! Adult times a day 0 2 t u o b a ost, ood laugh at m release of g e th s te a re body!

Laughing c need in our ll a e w s in endorph r giggle on!! u o y t e g d n So go on a

Fun facts from www.theeducationgap.com.

daily immersion in nature with caring, attentive mentors. With dual goals of nature connection and fostering the development of the whole-child, Thorne Nature Preschool prepares young children to succeed in school and in life.

E: info@thornenaturepreschool.org W: www.ThorneNaturePreschool.org P: (303) 499-1999 C: Lorene Wapotich

physical and social-emotional skills they need to thrive in school and beyond.

E: lstratton@learningwithtlc.org W: LearningWithTLC.org P: (303) 776-7417 C: Lisa Stratton, Educational Services Manager

A child’s brain has its most dramatic grow th period from birth until the age of 5. Children learn from observation and instruction which sharpens their cognitive abilities and functions.

A toddler between the ages of 1 and 2 years, will gain 2 million new brain connections every second. TWO MILLION!!! At 2 years of age, a child has more than 100 trillion new brain connections or synapses. Yet , when a child finally becomes an adult, more tha n 50% of these acquired synapses disappear . bouldercountykids.com • 41

PRIVATE SCHOOL

directory

Expand your search for an educational institution by exploring the private school options in the Boulder County Area.

Boulder Country 4820 Nautilus Ct. North Day School­ Ages: 2.5 - 8th grade

Hours & Days: 8 am to 3 pm, middle school until 3:15 pm. After school care and enrichment classes available. M-F, 3-day and 5-day options for Preschool.

Licensed June-August/Camp.

After school care and enrichment classes available.

Accreditations: NAIS, ACIS, and Approved Middle Years International Baccalaureate School.

Boulder Country Day School, where academic distinction meets education with character. BCD is a top rated, accredited private school in Boulder, Colorado where every

B.A.S.E. —Lafayette

Dawson School —Lafayette

42 • bouldercountykids.com

child has the opportunity to discover their own unique excellence.

Distinguished by small class sizes, outstanding faculty, engaging academics and a focus on community, our preschool, elementary and IB middle school teachers strive to create a well-rounded educational environment that balances traditional subjects with the arts, world languages, athletics and project-based learning.

C: Susan Boyle P: (303)-527-4931 x 248 E: info@bouldercountryday.org W: www.bouldercountryday.org

111 W. Baseline Road Ages: 5 - 12 years Hours & Days: M-F from dismissal to 6 pm, and on BVSD no school days, full-day care 7:30 am to 6 pm.

August - May. Jump into fun in our Colorado State Licensed BASE child care programs that meet the needs of every child.

We offer a wide range of activities including arts and crafts, STEM, active play, sports and games, swimming and much more. Children will have time for homework assistance and a few snacks along the way.

Safety is our top priority including

following all COVID-19 guidelines in effect at program time. Children from Ryan, Lafayette, and Peak to Peak elementary schools are provided transportation at dismissal to the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center. Pioneer Elementary students will walk with staff from school to the BBRC.

10455 Dawson Drive, Lafayette Ages: K-12th grade Days & Hours: M-F, 175 days. 8 am to 3:30 pm, plus free after-school care. September-June / Camp.

Licensed & Accredited.

Boulder County region’s leading independent, college-preparatory school, Dawson offers challenging academics, robust arts and athletics programs, and renowned outdoor and experiential education to students K-12. Small class sizes (average 15, with student/teacher ratio of 7/1); individual attention from experienced faculty; daily enrichment (art, music, PE, technology, language, library). The 107-acre campus features a new 25,000sqft

Center for Innovation, two full-size gyms and numerous athletic fields, separate K-5 playground, an Arts Center with 20+ offerings, and a Dining Commons with daily homemade hot lunch at no charge. The school is committed to the development of character, emphasizing respect, compassion, courage, and integrity, and to social-emotional wellbeing. Engaged parent community. Preparing students to bring their best to the world for over 50 years.

E: jordan.walker@lafayetteco.gov W: www.lafayetteco.gov/200/AfterSchool-Care-BASE P: (303)-661-1288 C: Jordan Walker

W: www.dawsonschool.org E: admissions@dawsonschool.org P: (303) 665-6679

PRIVATE SCHOOL DIRECTORY Friends School—Boulder South Campus: 5465 Pennsylvania

North Campus: 3800 Kalmia Ave. Ages: Preschool - 8th Grade Hours & Days: M-F. Elementary 8:30 am-3:15 pm, Middle School 8:45 am-3:45 pm. AfterCare and enrichment classes. August-May/ Camp Program.

Licensed/Accredited.

A supportive community committed to educating the whole child-head, hand, and heart. Social-emotional curriculum catered to each individual grade level. Experiential and integrated curriculum, em-

Mackintosh Academy 6717 South Boulder Road —Boulder Ages: K - 8th Grade

For over 40 years Mackintosh Academy has been pioneering next-generation gifted education. Mackintosh Academy nurtures the keen minds and compassionate hearts of gifted and creative students in a caring community of learners so that they contribute to a world that needs them. Authorized IB World School, social-emotional learning,

Watershed School 1661 Alpine Avenue

Ages: 6th - 12th grades Hours & Days: M-F. 8:15 am to 3:15 pm ACIS accredited. August - May. A progressive independent school in Boulder, CO, the Watershed School is committed to a program and school culture that inspires and educates students to become highly capable, healthy, wise, and engaged citizens, prepared to take on the world’s great challenges.

Our students engage in work that matters—work that is important to the student and has a positive im-

phasizing academics, problem solving, creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility. Exceptional specials including art, music, Spanish, library, technology, and PE programs. Small classes, low student/teacher ratios. Personalized Affordable Tuition. ACIS accredited, NAIS member.

C: Melanie Leggett P: (303) 499-1999 E: info@FriendsSchoolBoulder.org W: www.FriendsSchoolBoulder.org

gifted and creative students, design/innovation, service & global action, $26,150 (LS) and $27,140 (MS) with tuition assistance available.

Maximum 10:1 student to teacher ratio.

C: Jenny Strode P: (303) 554-2011 E: jstrode@mackboulder.com W: www.mackboulder.com

pact beyond the walls of the school.

We believe schools should not only help students develop the skills and habits for future success, but should also awaken their curiosity, expand their view of the world, and empower them to make a difference in their local, regional, and global communities.

P: (303) 440-7520 E: admissions@watershedschool.org W: www.watershedschool.org

bouldercountykids.com • 43

AFTER SCHOOL

directory

R

ock climbing, performing arts, nature and science clubs—that’s just the beginning! The best lineup of after school activities to get the kids back in the swing of things.

ABC Kids Climbing

1960 32nd Street Ages: All Hours & Days: M-Sun. Hours varied.

ABC Kids Climbing offers classes, teams, clubs, open gyms, private lessons, indoor and outdoor camps for climbers of all ages and abilities.

Our programs are thoughtfully designed by experienced climbers.

C: Staff P: (303) 443-5437 E: info@abckidsclimbing.com W: www.abckidsclimbing.com

Amy’s Zoom Music Classes

Hours & Days: Daily Zoom classes M-F, 9 am.

During this uncertain time with social distancing and closed schools, I do not want the kids to go without music. Music not only engages the mind and soul, but it encourages the spirit to dance! Through live zoom classes and videos, I try to reach out to my young friends and occupy them for a rich half hour with songs, musical activities, puppets, instruments and movement.

I send home coloring sheets or suggest art themes, and we show and tell before class each morning.

Have on hand a little shaker, a box for a drum, chopsticks for rhythm and get ready for a lot of musical fun! Amy Haywood is a two time Parent Choice Recommended winner for her songs and stories.

The Spark 4847 Pearl St. unit B4 Ages: 5 - 13 years Fun classes for your star ages 5-13 years. Movie making: run the camera, be the characters, story board, make the sets. Spiderman, Scenes from Wicked and SpongeBob Episode 2. Musical Theater: singing, dancing, acting. Annie Jr. Performance on the big stage in May.

Dance Machine: Dance technique, Stretching and Strength. Recital & costume in May. Tap & Lyrical.

Ages: K - 8th grade Hours & Days: M-Th. Offering high-quality enrichment classes before and after school at 24 BVSD schools. Let your kids get creative, get active and get smart with classes in cooking, chess, soccer, robotics, filmmaking, Span-

ish, hula hooping and more! Please visit our website for complete class listings and to register online.

Boulder Performing Arts Company

BVSD Lifelong Learning

44 • bouldercountykids.com

W: music-kids.us/amy-haywood-colorado E: missamyh@gmail.com

C: Pollyanna Demitro P: (303) 859-4195 E: boulderperformingarts2@gmail. com W: www.boulderperformingarts. com

P: (720) 561-5968 E: lifelong.learning@bvsd.org W: LLL.BVSD.org

AFTER SCHOOL DIRECTORY B.A.S.E.—Lafayette

SWIM•FLOAT•SWIM! Home of Infant Aquatics —Longmont

Melody Kids Music Together — Longmont

111 W. Baseline Road Ages: 5 - 12 years Hours & Days: M-F from dismissal to 6 pm, and on BVSD no school days, full-day care 7:30 am to 6 pm.

Jump into fun in our Colorado State Licensed BASE child care programs that meet the needs of every child.

We offer a wide range of activities including arts and crafts, STEM, active play, sports and games, swimming and much more. Children will have time for homework assistance and a few snacks along the way.

Safety is our top priority including following all COVID-19 guidelines

in effect at program time. Children from Ryan, Lafayette, and Peak to Peak elementary schools are provided transportation at dismissal to the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center. Pioneer Elementary students will walk with staff from school to the BBRC.

795 S. Sherman Street Ages: 2 months - 5 years Hours & Days: M-Th: 7 am to 7 pm, F: 8 am to 1 pm.

WE ARE OPEN! At Swim•Float•Swim! Your child will learn to swim safely in weeks, not years. We have decades of experience teaching aquatic survival and swimming skills. Our aquatic academy features two 90-degree indoor pools with a

UV water purification system which ensures the safest and most comfortable water experience. Stop by our child-friendly facility and discover the difference.

E: jordan.walker@lafayetteco.gov W: www.lafayetteco.gov/200/AfterSchool-Care-BASE P: (303)-661-1288 C: Jordan Walker

C: Judy Heumann P: (303) 499-2229 E: judy@infantaquatics.com W: www.swimfloatswim.com

Ages: Birth - 5 years In-person classes available when the mask mandate is lifted.

C: Alexandra Fischer P: (720) 773-0742 E: xan@melodykids.com W: www.melodykids.com

Music Together of Boulder

Ages: Birth - 8 years Boulder’s premier early childhood music & movement program, offering family, babies, and early elementary classes. Sing, dance, and support your child’s musical growth in a rich, fun, nurturing, and interactive environment. Preview spots available outdoor, inside, and online. Offering weekday, weekend,

and afternoon classes. Text or email for more information.

C: Laura Nordson/Jane Roche P: (720) 440-2775 E: musictogetherboulder@gmail. com W: www.musictogetherboulder. com

bouldercountykids.com • 45

AFTER SCHOOL DIRECTORY Mountain Song Music Studio, Inc.

Ages: 0 - 5 years Music Together ® OUTDOORS. Singing, movement, instrument play. Small Groups, siblings welcome. Central Boulder Private Location. Also Private Piano Lessons In Person or Online (ages 5 and up).

Following Covid Safety Protocol.

Parlando School Pursue your musical and theatrical for the Arts passions with Parlando School of

Musical Arts! Our talented faculty teach all ages, all abilities, and all instruments, including piano, voice/singing, musical theater, and acting. Try a starter pack, online or limited in-person, or dive into a full semester or school year of lessons!

With 50 faculty members, over 700 lessons occurring every week, and

Adventure Quest with Boulder/Denver/Online Renaissance Adventures Ages: 7 - 17 years

Join us for an in-person (LARP) after school program or online role-playing (RPG) adventure where everyone gets to be the hero! Children and teens choose to play an archetypal character with special powers in a mythical quest. Create your own small group for our Home Quest program or join us for a Holiday Camp whenever school is out. These Award-winning experiential education programs foster

Sandy Burrell Music Studio —Niwot­

Ages: All Hours & Days: Call for current class times.

Individual private lessons in flute, violin, and piano. Group lessons: a) Intro to Music, 1 semester- explore flute, violin or piano, b) Penny Whis-

CU Science Discovery 4001 Discovery Drive

Ages: K - 12th grade Choose school year enrichment that’s so engrossing and entertaining your child will want to return time and time again! CU Science Discovery offers a variety of school year enrichment programs including afterschool, homeschool, BVSD day-off and holiday classes for K-12 participants. All classes explore a variety of STEM topics using a

46 • bouldercountykids.com

C: Jane Smolens, Director P: (303) 413-1120 W: www.mountainsongmusic.com

classes, performances, and workshops held throughout the year, we have something for everyone. Join our musical community and ignite your inner artist! **Please see our ad on the back cover for a special offer!

P: (303) 442-0006 E: info@parlando.org W: www.parlando.org

empowerment, imagination, social-emotional learning, and team building skills as participants try on new perspectives, exercise discernment, and decipher riddles in small groups with a common goal. Learn more on our website.

P: (303) 786-9216 E: info@RenaissanceAdventures. com W: www.renaissanceadventures. com

tle Program—ideal class for ages 3 to 6. Fees: Pay by semester/session.

C: Sandy Burrell P: (303) 652-3287

hands-on, experiential learning approach designed to complement what your child is learning in school, while encouraging them to further explore and expand their knowledge. Register online or by phone.

P: (303) 492-7188 W: www.colorado.edu/sciencediscovery

AFTER SCHOOL DIRECTORY Studio Arts Boulder

The Arts Hub —Lafayette

Studio Arts Boulder is offering after-school pottery programs for kids of all ages! Students of all skill levels will have plenty of time to create and learn new techniques.

Wheel-throwing and hand-building classes meet weekly. Each instructor is background checked,

CPR certified, and health screened before each day.

P: (720) 379-6033 E: contact@studioartsboulder.org W: www.studioartsboulder.org

420 Courtney Way Ages: 4 - 17 years The HUB offers after school programs in theater, art, music, dance and more, for kids 4-17.

P: (303) 229-1127 W: www.artshub.org

Tinker Art Studio 693B S. Broadway, in the shops at

Table Mesa.

Ages: All Hours & Days: M-F, daytime and after school programs available.

Join us in the studio for art making and community! Spring semester classes for kids, teens, and adults start January 18th. Wheel throwing classes, teen paint & draw, art lab for elementary ages, and Tinker Time Art & Play for our youngest tinkerers are just a few classes you’ll

see this spring. Book a table in our Make & Take Studio to drop in and create, or visit our online shop to purchase at-home art kits and supplies — perfect for gifting and shopping small when it’s more important than ever.

P: (303) 503-1902 E: tinker@tinkerartstudio.com W: tinkerartstudio.com

Finding the best

care for your kids in Boulder County

Cultural Care Au Pair Affordable, flexible childcare with the added element of a cultural exchange. These young foreigners have childcare backgrounds and are eager to be a part of your family.

P: (303) 956-6189 - Jen Rodehaver E: jen.rodehaver@lcc.culturalcare.com W: www.culturalcare.com/jrodehaver

Babysitters of Boulder Locally founded and owned. Kind sitters and nannies for evenings, weekends, holidays, and events.

Temporary & permanent support.

P: (303) 749-1168 E: help@babysittersofboulder.com W: www.babysittersofboulder.com

My Boulder Nanny Our mission since 2012 for has always been to find pre-vetted “nanny quality” occasional babysitters (all bookable online) for our member families.

E: myboulderbabysitter@gmail.com W: www.mybouldernanny.com

Nannies of the Rockies We adhere to a strict standard of excellence in our recruitment of top notch childcare candidates. We are the agency your family will come to rely on for years to come!

P: (303) 513-7733 W: www.nanniesoftherockies.com

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BIRTHDAY PART Y directory

Find the best, most creative, and most accommodating places and programs to host your kiddos’ birthday parties.

ABC BIRTHDAY PARTIES Ages: 3 - 18 1960 32nd Street Climbing Parties! Fun, low-stress, quality parties with ABC Kids Climbing. Includes games, activities, and climbing for kids of all ages and abilities.

Hours: Monday-Sunday. Call to make a reservation.

Contact: Staff P: 303-443-5437 E: info@abckidsclimbing.com W: www.abckidsclimbing.com

Birthday Party at The Carousel of Happiness Ages: All What better place to celebrate your birthday than at the Carousel of Happiness! Enjoy the Carousel’s fun atmosphere with upbeat music from our Wurlitzer band organ and creative playtime in our do-it-yourself Puppet Theatre. Fees: $75/hour for the Party Room during regular hours, with a $25 deposit. $40 to rent the Puppet Theatre during regular open hours.

After hours rentals (Tues & Wed all day, other days after 5 pm) is $175/hour which includes an operator, tables, the use of the party room, etc. Party room rental includes 10 ride tickets per hour, tables, chairs, and a tablecloth. Maximum of 12 people. You are welcome to bring food and drinks and decorate the room as you wish. Additional tickets may be purchased at the front desk. Call to discuss your particular needs and reserve your date for one of the best party venues around.

P: (303)-258-3457 E: info@carouselofhappiness.org W: www.carouselofhappiness.org Birthday pARTies at Tinker Art Studio Ages: 3-15 693B S. Broadway, in the shops at Table Mesa.

Tinker Birthday pARTies are back! Book your party today and give your child a truly special celebration. Visit us online to pick your project from our party menu, then get ready to create together in the studio! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

E: tinker@tinkerartstudio.com W: www.tinkerartstudio.com P: 303-503-1902 48 • bouldercountykids.com

gift giving directory Support local businesses when shopping for loved ones this springtime!

This guide highlights shops throughout Boulder, Broomfield, Louisville, Lafayette, and more.

Front Range Anglers 2344 Pearl Street, Boulder FLY SHOP Front Range Anglers FLY SHOP is a premium fly fishing gear

SHOP for all levels of anglers. We offer guided fly fishing trips for trout in Boulder and along the entire Front Range.

Plus, we specialize in fly fishing trips into Rocky Mountain National Park, where anglers can catch the beautiful greenback cutthroat trout. The SHOP features classes in Fly Tying, Casting, Beginner’s Orvis 101, Guide School, Summer Co-Ed Kids Camp and much more! In addition, based on our owner, Steve McLaughlin’s love for travel, we have garnered quite a reputation for our Adventure Travel Program hosting and booking anglers to Christmas Island, New Zealand, Iceland, British Columbia, Alaska, Australia, Belize, Mexico, Bahamas, Florida Keys and many more international and domestic locations.

Never too young to own a fly rod!

P: (303) 494-1375 W: frontrangeanglers.com

Grandrabbits Toy Shoppe 2525 Arapahoe Ave.

We are an independently-owned, specialty toy store with three locations in the Front Range of Colorado. We carry a wide range of hand chosen, educational and fun toys for gifts, holidays, birthdays or any special occasion. We’ve been voted The Best Children’s Store in Boulder for over 40 years.

E: webmedia@grtoys.com P: (303) 443-0780

Skoy Cloth Skoy is a woman-owned business that started 10 years ago

with a single product sold in local stores and has grown to a recognized brand with a product line sold in North America and growing globally. We are proud to offer products that are superior to existing ones in the market. We always have the environment and the community in mind. Our products are packaged in the USA by people with disabilities. Skoy offers sustainable cleaning products that will revolutionize your home.

W: www.skoycloth.com E: info@skoycloth.com P: (800) 990-4757 bouldercountykids.com • 49

kids zone

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horoscopes spot junie did you know? spring crossword cool videos TikToks to follow

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spring

HOROSCOPES

AQUARIUS 1/20 - 2/18 Happy Aquarius season! Although an air sign, Aquarians are represented by the water-bearer, a mystical healer who brings water to the land.

This Spring, Aquarians should prepare for Summer by diving in! Head to the local (indoor) pool—whether it’s lessons, going down the water slide, or practicing your best cannonball it’s time to make a splash.

It’s time for Pisces to get old-school this spring—you should start writing letters! Do you have a friend or relative who doesn’t live near you? Writing them a letter will help you work on spelling while staying connected away from the screen. This is sure to satisfy a Pisces’ love for creativity and compassion.

A Taurus is usually always willing to put their friends & family before themself. It’s time for Taurus to put themself first this spring season. Buy a new journal just for you. Write about your day or just draw (coloring books are always a good idea)! Taking a few moments each day will help you have a stress-free spring.

7/23 8/22

This fire sign misses the sunshine in the colder months of the year. Leos should never miss a chance to soak up the sun this spring! On the occasional hot & sunny days of Colorado spring, Leos should spend as much time as they can outside. Plan a picnic, play at the park, or go on a hike!

10/23 11/21

This spring, Scorpio’s should conquer a fear they have. Although usually known for being quite fearless, Scorpios still have fears like anyone else. Take horsebacking riding lessons, jump off the diving board, or go on a hike that elevates higher than the sky! Whatever your fear, it’s time to face it head on.

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3/21 4/19

It’s time for Aries to put on the chef hat. Their competitive nature is a recipe for success when learning to cook!

Sign up for a cooking class/camp or even look up recipes to experiment with for a weekly dinner with your family. The step by step instructions mixed with taking charge will bring a lot of joy to Aries this season.

CANCER

Geminis are expressive and communicative, which makes them natural poets—whether they know it or not! Try writing some poetry this spring. Although it sounds intimidating, poetry can just be an expression of your thoughts & feelings on the page. Try out different styles and see which one you like best!

VIRGO

ARIES

6/21 - 7/22

5/21 - 6/20

4/20 - 5/20

SCORPIO

2/19 3/20

GEMINI

TAURUS

LEO

PISCES

symbols by stockgiu

8/23 9/22

Virgo’s have a knack for being detail-oriented. This spring, try a new hobby that will need all of your attention—like pottery! Working with clay takes patience and focus. Try visiting one of the local art studios in Boulder and creating something cool with your own two hands!

SAGITTARIUS 11/22 - 12/21 Sagittarians love learning new and interesting facts that they can share. They also love adventuring!

This spring, Sagittarians should look up cool, historical towns in Colorado.

There is so much to learn in our state!

After researching, maybe you could take a family trip to the town so you can show off all you’ve learned.

Cancers are very loyal and sympathetic. They love having friends who understand them and they can be themselves around! This spring, Cancers should open their hearts to new friends. It’s just like that old saying: “Make new friends, but keep the old.

One is silver and the other’s gold!”

LIBRA

9/23 10/22

This spring, Librans should start a small book club with a group of their friends. Having a group activity with close friends where they can all read together, chat about what they’re reading, and spend quality time together will satisfy a Libra’s desire for close connection with friends.

12/22 - 1/19

CAPRICORN As the worker-bees of the zodiac, a Capricorn loves getting tasks done.

This Spring, Capricorns should dedicate more time to helping out with chores around the house. If you don’t have one already, try making a chore chart for your family! This will bring a feeling of accomplishment and delight that will also be super helpful for your whole family.

Miraview Haksan 1000 piece puzzle

Can you spy our mascot, Junie, within the chaos?

Hint: She might be wearing a disguise!

BONUS! Toga Eskimo Boxer Russian nesting dolls Mustache Alien

Painter Skier Policeman Clown Scuba Diver Robin Hood Cave man

Roman Soldier Angry Bull Knight Palm Tree Mosaic Dinosaur Coffin

DID YOU KNOW THIS ABOUT

Friar Snakes Fisherman Hand Saw Sombrero Wheelbarrow

SPRING?

In Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, springtime starts three weeks earlier now than it did in 1970.

The first flowers of springtime are usually lilacs, lilies, daffodils, dandelions and irises.

Honeybees are most likely to swarm in the spring. Even though it sounds scary, they are actually at their friendliest when they are swarming.

The month of March is named after the Roman God of war, Mars.

Before the 14th century, Spring was simply called Lent. It was renamed because plants were springing up from the ground.

bouldercountykids.com • 53

Boulder County Kids Spring Crossword Print this page to complete the puzzle or Spring Crossword CLICKBCK HERE to complete it online!

1

2

3 4

5

8

6

9

7

10 11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

Across Across

2.2.Like buthelps helps make Likedirt, dirt, but make thingsthings grow. grow.

4.4.Flowers have bees it.

Flowers have it, it, bees wantwant it.

5.5.You eat these but also hunt for them.

You eat these but also hunt for them.

8.8.Where birds their Where birds laylay their eggs.eggs.

10. There might be a pot of gold at the end.

10. There might be a pot of gold at the end.

12. A whole week off of school!

12. A whole week off of school!

14. Icy coat in the morning.

14.Furry Icy coat in the morning.

15. friend who predicts when spring comes.

18. What we beg for, but rarely occurs.

19. They hop.

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DOWN

Down 1. A park.

1. feast A feastat at the the park.

2. 2.

AA warmer mountain activity the spring. warmer mountain activity in thein spring.

3. 3.

What might kill the blooming flowers.

What might kill the blooming flowers.

6. 6.

Where plant flowers, fruits, & veggies.

Where you you plant flowers, fruits, & veggies.

7. They’re everywhere this time of year!

7. They're everywhere this time of year!

9. The creature that comes to hide eggs.

9. The creature that comes to hide eggs.

11. Activity on trails.

11.What Activity on trails.do in the spring.

13. flowers 16. Accumulates in clouds in the sky.

17. Buzzzzz.

VIDEO PAGES Watch our latest collection of cool YouTube videos!

When Did Pink Become a “Girl” Color?

Who decided that boy stuff is blue and girls stuff is pink? Did you know it used to be the opposite?

This Colossal Questions Video really sparked our interest about how we identify genders with color!

7 Weird Things Dogs Do Why do dogs chase their tails? Will chocolate kill your dog? Why do dogs bury bones?

Another video from Colossal Questions answers some head-scratchers about one of our favorite animals!

Why don’t we cover the desert with solar panels?

Explore what would happen if we covered the Sahara Desert with solar panels and the possibility of solving our energy crisis.

At BCK, we’re huge fans of Ted Ed and their informational content! Check out more on their YouTube channel!

Click to view these kid-friendly accounts!

Click here to follow us on TikTok!!

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