Parenting NH June 2017

parenting

COMPLIMENTARY

JUNE 2017

NEW HAMPSHIRE

PUMP

UP THE JAM

Meet the skaters of the New Hampshire Junior Roller Derby ParentingNH.com

Your Health, Our Trusted Experts...

...in Newborn Intensive Care. Elliot Health Systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to caring for you and your family is close to home. As the only Level III Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the greater Manchester area, the Elliot NICU has the high-tech resources and a team of neonatologists, nurse practitioners, nurses, and respiratory care therapists specializing in premature infant care. Babies in our NICU receive close observation, attention, and intervention for their very unique needs. Contact us to learn more about why expecting parents deliver their baby at Elliot Hospital and how the NICU plays a role in this critical decision.

Visit www.elliothospital.org or call Physician Finder at 603-663-4567. Elliot Health System is a non-profit organization serving your healthcare needs since 1890.

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 3

• contents ON THE COVER: New Hampshire Junior Roller Derby skaters, left to right, Jane Kittredge (Hella Kitty), Gabby Clarke (Beast) and Rachel Shewan (Hermione Danger) strike a pose at JFK Coliseum in Manchester on April 22, 2017. Photo taken by Kendal J. Bush, Parenting New Hampshire’s longtime cover photographer. Check out more of her work at www.kendaljbush.com.

june 12

Pump up the jam

4 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

Garden with your kids

EDITOR:

Melanie Hitchcock, x5157 editor@parentingnh.com Kimberly Lencki, x5154 klencki@mcleancommunications.com PRODUCTION MANAGER:

Jodie Hall, x5122 jhall@nhbr.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER:

Nancy Tichanuk, x5116 ntichanuk@mcleancommunications.com MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES:

Barbara Gallaher, x5156 bgallaher@parentingnh.com Debbie Birch, x5133 dbirch@parentingnh.com OFFICE MANAGER:

Mista McDonnell, x5114 mmcdonnell@nhbr.com EVENT & MARKETING MANAGER:

Summer reads for young adults

6 The Short List 8 I Want That 10 Cook with Your Kids 32 Dad on Board 34 Raising Teens & Tweens 35 House Calls 36 Out and About 37 Five for Families 39

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER:

Sharron McCarthy, x5117 smccarthy@mcleancommunications.com

GROUP ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR:

Dig in: Ice cream, seafood and delectable dogs

departments From the Editor’s Desk

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Erica Baglieri, x5125 ebaglieri@mcleancommunications.com BUSINESS & SALES COORDINATOR:

Heather Rood, x5110 hrood@mcleancommunications.com DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST:

Morgen Connor, x5149 mconnor@mcleancommunications.com

150 Dow Street, Manchester, NH 03101 (603) 624-1442, fax (603) 624-1310

www.parentingnh.com Subscription: One year (12 issues) $15

Parenting New Hampshire Magazine® is published by McLean Communications, 150 Dow St., Manchester, NH 03101, (603) 624-1442. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for any mistakes in advertisements or editorial. Statements/opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication or its officers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, McLean Communications, LLC.: Parenting New Hampshire Magazine disclaims all responsibility for omission and errors.

Practice time. Show time. College saving time. The ﬁrst step to helping their dreams come true is to make saving part of your routine. The UNIQUE College Investing Plan account offers tax-deferred growth and some of the lowest fees and expenses in the industry. There’s also the Fidelity Investments 529 College Rewards® Visa Signature® Card, which lets you earn unlimited 2% cash back1 on everyday purchases. Rewards are deposited directly into your 529 account to make sure your saving and spending are in perfect rhythm.

To learn more, or to open an account, visit

Fidelity.com/unique

Managed by:

or call 800.544.1914.

Please carefully consider the plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. For this and other information on any 529 college savings plan managed by Fidelity, contact Fidelity for a free Fact Kit, or view one online. Read it carefully before you invest or send money. The UNIQUE College Investing Plan is offered by the state of New Hampshire and managed by Fidelity Investments. If you or the designated beneficiary is not a resident of the state of New Hampshire, you may want to consider, before investing, whether your state or the beneficiary’s home state offers its residents a plan with alternate state tax advantages or other benefits. Units of the portfolios are municipal securities and may be subject to market volatility and fluctuation. Account must be open and in good standing to earn and redeem rewards and benefits. You will earn 2 points per dollar in eligible net purchases (purchases minus credits and returns) that you charge. Credits, returns, adjustments, and certain transactions do not earn points. The 2% rewards value applies only to points redeemed for a deposit into an eligible Fidelity account. The redemption value is different if you choose to redeem your points for other rewards such as travel options, merchandise, gift cards, and/or a statement credit. Other restrictions apply. Full details appear in the Program Rules new card customers receive with their card. Establishment or ownership of a Fidelity account or other relationship with Fidelity Investments is not required to obtain a card or to be eligible to use points to obtain any rewards offered under the program other than Fidelity Rewards. The Fidelity Investments and pyramid design logo is a registered service mark of FMR LLC. Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917. © 2017 FMR LLC. All rights reserved. 790730.1.0

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 5

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5/4/17 4:22 PM

from the editor’s desk EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR SUMMER ALL IN ONE PLACE Sor:

BooK Spon

NE W HAMPSH

During this long, damp, cool spring, you may have found it difficult to think about what you are going to do this summer.

IRE

But if you feel like you are running behind or don’t know where to start when it comes to figuring out summer plans for you and your family, you are in luck – Parenting New Hampshire’s Family Summer Fun Guide to the rescue! The Family Summer Fun Guide is the ultimate resource for parents who want guidance on things to do and places to go throughout New Hampshire with their families this summer. Whether you are planning a day trip or are looking for that perfect weekend getaway, you’ll find that information in our go-to annual publication. For almost 25 years, Parenting NH has been the premier information 2017

Supporting

SponSorS:

MAIN STAGE

$5-8 SUGGESTED DONATION

7 201 er

Melanie Hitchcock Editor

Let Their Imaginations Soar This Summer! Summer Quest Day Camp offers convenient, 2-week sessions that are jam-packed with fun, adventure, new friendships and unique experiences.

sc o

tt p

ark

arts fe

sti val

sum m

ON THE

source for Granite State families. We are proud that Catholic Medical Center in Manchester is on board as sponsor of this year’s summer guide because they share our mission of putting families first. Look for the Family Summer Fun Guide starting in mid-June, about the time kids get out of school and you start hearing the familiar strains of, “I’m bored!” You’ll find it at regular distribution spots, Welcome Centers throughout the state, and a digital edition will be made available at www.parentingnh.com.

&p pr e s e n t e d

FILM

CONCERTS THEATRE & MORE! WWW.PRESCOTTPARK.ORG

6 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

603.888.1982 WorldAcademyNH.com 138 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062

Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Out! â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Visit Settlers green this summer for shopping, dining and family events. Free coupon books are available at Customer Service. Movies on the Green July 11-August 22

Free outdoor movies every Tuesday at dusk. Yard games, face painting and special activities start at 6pm.

Mall-Wide Tent Sale July 28-August 6

Extended this year to 10 days! Summer clearance and back-to-school shop at over a dozen tents.

Back-To-School Blitz August 19

Face painting, music, photo booth, yard games and more.

W H I T E M O U N TA I N H W Y, N O R T H C O N WAY, N H

settlersgreen.com | 1-888-667-9636 Open 9-9 Mon-Sat | 10-6 Sunday | 9-6 July 4

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 7

COMPLIMENTARY

the short list ...TIPS, TRENDS & NEWS

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Look for the Family Summer Fun Guide at Parenting New Hampshire’s regular distribution spots and at Welcome Centers throughout the Granite State — Hooksett North, Hooksett South, Lebanon, North Conway, Salem, Seabrook — starting in mid-June, about the time kids are getting out of school.

This month on www.parentingnh.com:

School’s out for the summer

Get the most out of your next parent-teacher conference PFOA: Is your water safe to drink? ParentingNH.com

Enter our Young Writers Essay Contest and appear on our cover

The Seacoast Science Center has been a favorite destination for families since it opened its doors in 1992. Located in historic Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, the Center provides exceptional marine and environmental education through programs, exhibits, marine mammal rescue, and interpretation of Odiorne Point State Park. This year, the Center celebrates 25 years of making a difference. “We know that it is up to each us

to care for, and about, the future of our ocean,” said Karen Provazza, Director of Marketing. “A year full of special programs, exhibits, and events will help us expand our reach and inspire more people to become stewards of the sea.” The Center’s 25th anniversary celebration kicked off this spring and culminates with a 25th anniversary free Family Fun Day on Sept. 9. Each week, visitor programs will focus on a different theme, includ-

ing deep sea exploration, maritime history, rocky shore ecology, pirate lore, the habitats of Odiorne Point State Park, and more. The Center also launched their Blue Stewards Badge Program, a 32-page activity handbook designed to inspire families to learn more about habitat ecology, environmental stewardship, cultural and maritime history, wildlife, and more. For more information go to www. seacoastsciencecenter.org.

S •

Seacoast Science Center celebrates 25 years of ocean education

Parenting New Hampshire is hosting its third annual essay writing contest. If you are a Granite State kid who loves to write, we want to put the spotlight on you! Winners will be chosen from three age groups: age 7 and younger; age 8-11, and age 12 and older. A winner from each of these age categories WRI will have their essays published T NG in the August issue of PNH. Additionally, an overall winner will be selected — their essay will also be published and they will be photographed by Kendal A J. Bush Photography for the Y CONT cover of Parenting NH’s August/Back-to-School issue. The essay topic is: How would you describe your perfect day? You can write about who you might spend it with, what you would do, what time of year it is, what the weather is like, etc. Use your imagination and be creative! If you’re the parent of a child who loves to write, this is a fun way for them to spend an afternoon after the school year ends. And teachers, this is a fun writing assignment for your class during the last days of the school year. Winners will be contacted via email or phone on Tuesday, July 11; the photo needs to be taken by Monday, July 17, to make our print deadline.

In addition to our Family Summer Fun Guide, go online to find out what to do and where to go in New Hampshire this summer with your family. All of our summer-themed content can be found at www.parentingnh.com/summer.  Find a swimming spot, campground, hiking trail and more  Where you can pick your own strawberries  Summer fairs and festivals  Free events and things to do

winners

Parenting NH’s Family Summer Fun Guide is coming your way later this month. This full-color magazine is the ultimate resource for parents who are looking for things to do and places to go throughout New Hampshire with their families. Whether you are planning a vacation, weekend getaway or day trip, you will find all the information you need in this comprehensive handbook.

YOUNG WRITERS ESSAY CONTEST

Don’t miss this year’s Family Summer Fun Guide

Meet 2016’s

• YO U

COMPILED BY MELANIE HITCHCOCK

Sponsored by

parenting AUGUST 2016

Contest rules: • Essays must be 100 to 300 words. • Submissions must be received via email or postal mail by Monday, July 12, at 5p.m. Email to editor@parentingnh.com with Writing Contest in the subject line; or mail to Parenting NH Magazine Editor, McLean Communications, 150 Dow St., Manchester, NH 03101. All essays must include the child’s name, age, grade level, name of school they attend (or home school), parent’s name, address and phone and email. For more information, go to parentingnh.com. Children of Yankee Publishing Inc. or McLean Communications employees are not eligible.

Visit the Possibilities Inspiring students 18 months - 8th grade through hands-on learning in Londonderry, NH

Schedule your tour Today! smile power â&#x201E;˘

603.818.8613

www.snhma.org

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 9

I want that COMPILED BY MELANIE HITCHCOCK

A perfect gift for your graduate The Patchwork Bears transform treasured clothes and memories into a custom bear. Each bear is hand-cut and professionally sewn and features hand-embroidered eyes and nose. The finished bear measures approximately 17 inches tall and is signed and dated by the designer. The Patchwork Bears offer additional keepsakes like quilts and bags, too. For information on how to order, go to www.thepatchworkbear.com.

Bodies moving, minds working Engage your child with the Stop Rocket — a kid-powered, STEM learning toy. Kids will experience scientific concepts such as force, gravity, trajectory and the power of air firsthand, while they run, jump and STOMP to launch their rockets. Darkness won’t stop the fun, either! Each Ultra LED rocket features a built-in LED light that’s bright enough to double as a flashlight. No batteries required. Age 6 and older. Available at Dick’s Sporting Goods and other major retailers; $19.99

Make your own frozen treats Kids and parents will love to make fresh and healthy frozen treats anytime they want with the Icee Float Fun Factory. The set comes complete with a base to organize your Icee Float components – Icee machine, three cups, three spoons, as well as a whipped cream and sprinkles dispenser. It’s so easy to use! Place ice, salt and water into the aluminum drum, spin until it gets nice and cold, and you are ready to make your favorite frozen treat. Age 5 and older. Available at Toyland in Milford or Barnes & Noble locations; $24.95

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Play chess at home or on the road The Shesham Travel Chess Set, handcrafted from shesham wood, is designed for games on the go. Pegged pieces stay in place on the board with holes in each square; never lose a game piece again! From king to pawn, each piece is stored inside the game board, which folds on hinges to create a portable box. Available at www.tenthousandvillages.com; $34.99

No more soggy shoes DryGuy Force Dry provides a quick way to eliminate moisture from soaked gear. Faster than air drying and more reliable than leaving shoes out in the sun, the DryGuy Force Dry circulates warm air through shoes, drying out even the most soaked footwear in a just a few hours. The portable device is ideal for yearround use in rainy or snowy weather. Great for kids who play sports or like to play outside all day. Available at www. dryguy.com, $50

Flying gravity & CirCus smirkus Team Up for Summer Fun ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

ircus Smirkus is an internationally acclaimed and awardwinning non-profit created to share circus with people of all ages. Aside from hosting circus skills camps in Vermont every summer, Smirkus also selects a group of 30 young people (ages 10-18) from across the country to perform in a full-scale 90 minute production that rivals, say many enthusiasts, the best circus experiences touring today. The tour stops in Milford for shows at 1pm and 6pm on Sunday July 23 and Monday July 24 to perform “Night at the Museum” at the Keyes Field. Performances will be full of talent and spectacle, with aerials, acrobatics, high wire, juggling, trapeze, clowning, live music and brilliant costumes. The show will be more than entertaining – it will be truly inspiring and fun for all ages! Dylan, Keiran and Jack each got their start in circus with Silver Lining Circus Camp and Flying Gravity Circus, two local youth circus programs, both founded by Jackie Davis and now led by the experienced and talented Artistic Director, Jon Roitman. The Silver Lining Circus Camp (www.silverliningcircuscamp.com) is a local summer day camp for aspiring circus troupers aged 6-14. Flying Gravity Circus (www.flyinggravitycircus.com) provides high quality circus training to local youth (aged 8-18) who perform across New England. Both promote youth development through circus arts education and awareness as an art form. The circus skills taught include juggling, tightwire, unicycling, diabolo, rollabola, trapeze, Cyr wheel, Chinese pole, tumbling, acrobatics and partner acrobatics and, of course, clowning. Dylan, a tenth-grader, has a long term goal of “going pro and traveling the world,” is recently returned from a 7-week tour in the southern states with Circus Fantazia, and eager to embark on the 10-week tour with Circus Smirkus. Keiran, a graduating senior at the High Mowing School, will spend his next year in Boston while intensively training in circus arts, theater, and dance in preparation for an illustrious career as a professional circus artist! Jack, a graduating senior at the Derryfield school, will finish the Smirkus Tour in late August, pack a suitcase, and hop on a train to New Jersey to attend Princeton University as a freshman. ★

We are always on the lookout for new talent, so don't hesitate to get in touch if your son or daughter is interested!

SILVER LINING CIRCUS - JUNIOR CAMP ★ Ages 6-8 SILVER LINING CIRCUS - YOUTH CAMP ★ Ages 9-14 Two 1-Week Sessions ★ July 10-14 or July 17-21 Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (4:00p.m. youth Camp) Tuition: $300 ★ Location: The Parish House of the 1st Congregational Church, 10 union Street, Milford NH.

FLYING GRAVITY CIRCUS - INTENSIVE TRAINING WEEK ★ Ages 9-18 JuNe 19-23 Monday - Friday 9am-4pm Tuition: $300 ★ Location: Temple elementary School, Temple NH FLYING GRAVITY CIRCUS - SUMMER TOUR CAMP ★ Ages 12-18 JuNe 26-30 Monday - Friday and July 11-8 Monday - Saturday 9am-4pm Tuition: $625 ★ Location: Temple elementary School, Temple NH Register for both programs in advance on our website:

w w w.FlyingGrav it yCircus.com

Or contact: Program Director, Jon Roitman at 413-313-1778

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Jon Roitman, Coach and Artistic Director of Flying Gravity Circus, Dylan Biedrzycki (15, from Merrimack), Keiran Sass (17, from Wilton) and Jack Miron (18, from Bedford) will spend most of their summer performing, once again, under the Big Top with Circus Smirkus as it tours across New England.

Are You Interested in Becoming a Circus Trouper?

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 11

Pump up the The NH Junior Roller Derby league is teaching kids more than blocking and

ke By Bill Bur

t’s early on a warm Tuesday evening and Gabby Clarke is whipping around a track inside the John F. Kennedy Memorial Coliseum on Beech Street in Manchester.

The ice is gone, and blue tape marks an oval on the smooth concrete where Clarke is furiously roller skating – her arms pumping back and forth as she picks up speed. After a few laps at top speed she slows a bit, turns her skate sideways and comes to a stop near the sideboards to talk to a few friends. Clarke is just one of the many kids who have gathered at this weekly practice of the New Hampshire Junior Roller Derby (NHJRD) – a league designed to introduce kids to the sport of roller derby. “When most people look at roller derby, they might remember seeing it on TV in the 70s,” Head Referee Jason Kittredge said of the early days of the sport – when it was more about larger-than-life personalities akin to professional wrestling. “It’s not sports entertainment now the way it was then. It’s not scripted; it really is real.” Roller derby works like this: Each team designates a “jammer,” who attempts to skate past a row of “blockers” as they encircle the 180-foot

12 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

track. Each time the jammer laps the blockers, they score a point. It’s a contest based on speed, skating skill and a little rough-and-tumble positioning, and it’s drawn nearly 20 Granite State kids to the rink on this particular night, including Gabby Clarke. Just don’t call her Gabby. When this petite 9-year-old is tearing up the roller derby track, she’s known to her teammates and friends as Beast. Part of roller derby is expressing some personal creativity, which can manifest itself in a number of ways, including coming up with a derby name. Participants are encouraged to come up with their own moniker – something that reflects their personality, likes or interests. Kittredge’s daughter, Jane, 13, goes by “Hella Kitty.” Her friend, Rachel Shewan – a big Harry Potter fan – is better known in derby circles as “Hermione Danger.” They take the floor alongside friends with derby names like “T-Lily,” “Bad Wolf,” “Dragon Rider” and “Ocean.” It’s just part of what draws kids to the sport.

“I also really like interacting with people and being in situations where you need to show teamwork,” Jane Kittredge/Hella Kitty said. The most challenging part? “Having to constantly be in ‘derby stance’,” she said of the low, crouching position. “It’s this weird standing position we do – it gets really tiring.” For beginners, learning the basics can present some challenges. Safety concerns are paramount, and participants are coached-up from the most basic skills. “My first time it hurt,” Shewan, 11, said. “I kept falling. It was intimidating, but it was also exciting.” Despite a few bumps along the way, Shewan kept coming back – something that showed league founder and coach Amy Eskelsen that she was onto something when she strapped on the skates and started leading youngsters around the track. Eskelsen grew up in Seattle, started skating six years ago in Orlando, and

jam jamming

created the New Hampshire Junior Roller Derby League “with the gracious help of parent volunteers” when she moved to Concord. “When we first started we had 10 skaters,” Eskelsen said. “Over the course of the last year and a half we have grown to involve more than 44 girls. We have one kiddo who’s a brother of another skater so we did open it up to co-ed. Right now we’re at double the amount of skaters we started with. We offer scholarships and make it available to anyone who wants to skate.” Eskelsen said her main priority is to make sure NHJRD is a safe environment and to make sure the kids are having fun. A cursory look around the arena shows that both of her main objectives are being met. “In derby, they fall down – a lot,” she said. “It teaches them to be brave because it means you have to get back up and keep trying at things that are hard. It teaches them to improve and grow. It’s been really cool to watch some of our skaters grow and to see their confidence skyrocketing.

Participants are encouraged to come up with their own moniker, like “Ruthless,” as a way of expressing themselves.

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 13

“Everything you hear around derby is learning to push yourself.

If you get knocked down, you get

“I think it’s really resonated with the whole junior roller derby league,” she said. “We were the first league in New Hampshire to offer derby to kids 7-17 and since then there’s been an explosion of leagues.” Jason Kittredge calls for the skaters’ attention and starts a two-minute “jam” – an abbreviated period of play when skaters take to the track in a full-on match. He offers advice and encouragement, directs one skater to the penalty box for a minor infraction, and then calls them all to the center of the arena to discuss strategy. “I think there are some important lessons the kids learn from this,” he said. “They learn a lot about teamwork – accepting the strengths and weaknesses of others and trying to make up for them. And some of most important things they learn are how to fall and get back up – both in the literal and the metaphorical sense. There are a lot of skills, it’s hard to do, and the only way to overcome that is to keep working at it.”

It’s also been a personally rewarding experience for Eskelsen – who, by day, is a social worker in Concord. “Watching them learn and seeing the light bulb go on is great,” she said. “All of a sudden they’re getting it. They pick it up and say ‘I got it,’ and then use those skills in game play – it’s amazing.” It’s also drawn the admiration of parents whose kids have gotten involved in the sport. Often pressed into service as timekeepers or some other support role, NHJRD parents play an active role in their daughters’ derby experience. “She’s definitely way more confident,” said Matt White, whose daughter, Rose (better known as “T-Lily”), skates with the team. “I don’t think it’s just the skating, though. It’s the whole attitude that goes along with being a derby girl.” White said discovering NHJRD fit his daughter’s personality perfectly. He grew up playing sports like basketball, football, baseball and hockey, but Rose was looking

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for something different. “Her favorite part is all of the friends she’s made,” White said. “And definitely the sense of empowerment. That’s why we wanted her to do derby. Everything you hear around derby is learning to push yourself. If you get knocked down, you get back up.” For coach Kerri MacPherson, whose daughter skated with the group until recently, the lessons went even deeper. “My daughter is type 1 diabetic, as am I, and it didn’t matter,” MacPherson, of Amherst, said. “It was very easy to work around that. There was no focus on it. They didn’t see it as something big to deal with – she was simply another skater, which as a parent with a child with a chronic anything – learning disability, health issues – that’s the pinnacle of success.” The skaters at the JFK practice work on a number of drills that focus on their particular skill level, from learning to stop safely to weaving in and out of cones to a full-on

derby scrimmage. At the end of the evening, the kids take part in a “sock derby,” where skates are put aside so the kids can focus primarily on positioning, blocking and passing in a controlled situation. Forming a line across the track, the skaters – now in their stocking feet – form a defensive wall as a designated jammer does her best to maneuver through. It’s just days before the first bout of the season, and there’s a palpable feeling of excitement in the air. “Our first game we played against Vermont in Vermont and it was so awesome,” Eskelsen said. “I cried at the end because everything was coming together. I said, ‘oh my gosh, we did the roller derby!’” For a complete schedule and information on getting involved with the New Hampshire Junior Roller Derby, visit www. NHjuniorrollerderby.com. You also know Bill Burke as Parenting NH’s Dad on Board, and author of the “Mousejunkies” book series.

The roller derby teams get ready to rumble on the 180-foot track at JFK Coliseum in Manchester.

back up.â&#x20AC;? The team celebrates after a hard-fought victory.

On this night, more than 20 Granite State kids took part in the blocking and jamming of the roller derby contest. Photography by Kendal J. Bush.

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 15

The frozen eight Beat the heat with one of these delicious ice cream desserts By Michelle Lahey

BRAIN FREEZER

scream, you scream, we all scream for…ice cream parfaits and piled-high sundaes. Yes, the humid days of summer are [almost] officially here, and the only way to cool down is with an indulgent dose of ice cream. Thankfully, dairy lovers are not limited to the same old cones and scoops anymore. Read on to see what unique seasonal offerings you can beat the heat with this season.

BISH-BURGERS

POLAR JOE

CIDER DONUT SUNDAE

Moo’s Place Homemade Ice Cream

Bishop’s Homemade

Lago’s Homemade Ice Cream

Memories Ice Cream

27 Crystal Ave., Derry 425-0100 www.moosplace.com

183 Cottage St., Littleton 444-6039 www. bishopshomemadeicecream.com

71 Lafayette Road, Rye 964-9880 www.lagosicecream.com

95 Exeter Road, Kingston 642-3737 www.memoriesicecream.com

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: It’s a tough decision on every hot day – slushie or ice cream? Fortunately, Moo’s Place’s Brain Freezers make the decision easy by combining them both. The Brain Freezers mix any current flavor of Super Slushes (like Panther Pink Watermelon, Performance Red Cherry, or Split Second Banana) with any available flavor of soft serve ice cream (such as pina colada, black raspberry, or blueberry). The refreshing possibilities are endless.

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Bish-burgers are Bishop’s version of an ice cream sandwich. Freshly baked chocolate chip cookies sandwich your choice of homemade ice cream flavor. While Bishop’s flavors rotate regularly, expect options such as butter pecan, banana cream pie, and “Bishop’s Bash,” which is dark chocolate ice cream made with chocolate chips, nuts, and brownie chunks.

Courtesy photo

16 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: If you’re looking to combine your morning cup of joe with an indulgent homemade ice cream, Lago’s is your place. Their Polar Joes blend your choice of ice cream – such as coffee Oreo, mocha chip or French vanilla – with cold coffee. Topped off with whipped cream, this decadent drink also provides a necessary caffeine boost when your energy starts to wane.

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: You no longer have to wait until the fall to enjoy a delicious cider donut – and in the summer, you have the added bonus of enjoying said donut with ice cream. “We’d have to say the most unique dish would be our Cider Donut Sundae,” said Dawn Padfield, co-owner. This sundae consists of two or three scoops of creamy homemade vanilla (or diner’s choice) ice cream, topped with cider donuts, caramel, whipped cream, and a dusting of cinnamon-sugar.

Courtesy photo

CHOCOLATE PEANUT PARFAIT

Golick’s Dairy Bar

MAKE-YOUR-OWN SUNDAE BAR

ICE CREAM FLIGHT

Beech Hill Farm & Ice Cream Barn

Jordan’s Ice Creamery

107 Beech Hill Road, Hopkinton 223-0828 www.beechhillfarm.com/icecream-barn

894 Laconia Road, Belmont; 593 Endicott Street, N. Laconia 267-1900 www.facebook.com/jordansic WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: When an ice cream stand boasts over two decades of business, you know their product has got to be good. And with rotating unique flavors such as Salted Caramel Kettle Corn, Raspberry Cheesecake, and Sweet Cream and Brownie, to name a few, a flight is the best way to try a variety of goodies. Flights let you try four scoops of flavors, served on a wooden paddle – and patrons get to keep the paddle after the ice cream is gone. (Side note: If you’d rather commit to one flavor, Jordan’s occasionally has donut cones available. Yes – donut cones.)

NOR’EASTERS

The Big 1 Ice Cream Stand

may be the mindchanger we need. Instead of a disruptive snowstorm, The Big 1 blends vanilla, chocolate, or twist soft serve with your favorite toppings — including everything from strawberries to blueberry pie to chocolate pretzels to cookie dough, and (basically) everything in-between.

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: At Beech Hill Farm, diners get their ice cream fix done their way at the make-your-own sundae bar. Choose from 75 flavors of Blake’s Creamery and Gifford’s ice cream, and pile the bowl high with as many or as few of the 20 different toppings as you like to create a sundae or a banana split. No matter what flavor or toppings you choose, this is most certainly a creative way to cool down.

683 Calef Highway (Route 125), Barrington; 17 Sawyer Ave., Rochester 664-9633; 330-3244 www.golicksdairybar.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Is there any flavor combination better than that of chocolate and peanuts? The only way to make it better is by adding ice cream – in this case, soft serve (non-dairy soft serve is also available at Golick’s). “It has layers of hot fudge and peanuts and is topped with whipped cream and [more] peanuts,” said Alan Golick, owner and manager. Diners get to choose a flavor of soft serve, and with up to 50 different flavors to choose from, the hardest part will be making a final decision.

Michelle Lahey is a food writer who was born and raised in New Hampshire. She also blogs about food at www.ahoppymedium. blogspot.com.

185 Concord St., Nashua www.thebig1icecream.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: We all want to forget about Nor’easters during the blissful days of summer, but The Big 1’s version

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 17

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THREE WAYS TO MAKE BIRTHDAYS SPECTACULAR! Choose from three birthday party packages to treat your child to a party that’s just right. Each includes all-day admission to the park, balloons and a Friendly’s Ice Cream Cake. Plus, they come with a special treat for you, the parent – we take care of the set-up and the clean-up, so you can forget about the details and actually have some fun! For package details or to book your party, visit watercountry.com.

NEW ENGLAND’S LARGEST WATERPARK 18 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

Fry it up

Go ahead and indulge with these fried seafood favorites made in NH By Michelle Lahey

t’s hard to beat New England seafood, especially during the summer. And while freshly caught lobster, shrimp, and haddock are delicious when delicately prepared, nothing beats a good old-fashioned deep-frying. From fried fish sandwiches to fried clams, here is where to get your fried seafood fix this summer.

HADDOCK NUGGETS

The Beach Plum

2800 Lafayette Road (Route 1), Portsmouth; 11 Brickyard Square (Route 125), Epping 433-3339; 679-3200 www.thebeachplum.net WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Haddock nuggets are basically the adult (and much more delicious) version of those other nuggets sold at fast-food chains. These fresh, deep-fried delights are sold at The Beach Plum’s Portsmouth and Epping locations, in pint- or quart-size. If you’re feeling extra hungry, order a bowl of clam chowder to help wash down the meal.

SMELT DINNER

Windjammer’s Seafood Restaurant 240 Portland St., Rochester 332-9622 www.windjammersrestaurant. com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Smelts weren’t always on Windjammer’s seafood-laden menu, but after numerous diners requested it, these small sea creatures were added. “I think that, for many people, they are a treat that they would never prepare at home, and they do not often find them in other seafood restaurants,” said Kim Seckendorf, owner. The smelts are hand-breaded to order, and come with your choice of side.

NEWICK’S FAMOUS SEAFOOD PLATTER

Newick’s Lobster House 431 Dover Point Road, Dover; 317 Loudon Road, Concord 742-3205; 225-2424 www.newicks.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Any restaurant that boasts the motto “we’ll fry almost anything” is worthy of a visit. Especially when that same restaurant offers a seafood platter, piled high with fried fish. Newick’s Famous Seafood Platter comes with fresh dry-packed sea scallops, whole clams, baby shrimp, and North Atlantic haddock. In case that’s not enough food, patrons also get their choice of French fries or chips and coleslaw on the side.

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 19

FISH & CHIPS

FRIED LOBSTER

Johnson’s Seafood and Steak

The Lobster Boat Restaurant

69 State Route 11; New Durham; 1334 1st NH Turnpike (Route 4), Northwood 859-7500; 942-7300 www.eatatjohnsons.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Fish and chips just taste better in the summer. Johnson’s Seafood and Steak’s version showcases a hand-battered haddock fillet with homemade tartar sauce for necessary dipping – and, of course, French fries. Wash the meal down with an ice cold craft beer from Johnson’s extensive draft list (especially at the Northwood location). You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to London in no time. FRIED OYSTERS

Petey’s Summertime Seafood and Bar 1323 Ocean Boulevard, Rye 433-1937 www.peteys.com

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WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: If the texture of a raw oyster doesn’t agree with your palate, a fried oyster will make you an instant fan of these tasty mollusks. At Petey’s, patrons can enjoy fried oysters as an appetizer with cocktail or tartar sauce, or as a meal, where they’re served with French fries (a side of Petey’s famous coleslaw can also be added for an additional $1.69). If you’re visiting to feast, try one of Petey’s many lobster dishes as well; they catch their own here. FRIED CLAMS

Brown’s Lobster Pound 407 NH Highway 286, Seabrook 474-3331 www.brownslobsterpound.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: No fried seafood list is complete without a mention of fried clams. And at Brown’s, the fried clams are really something special. The clams are first dipped in an egg wash, then they’re dredged in flour, then they go back in the egg wash before being dunked in cracker crumbs. The end result are fried clams that aren’t weighed down with batter and grease – just plump clams coated in a light, crunchy texture.

453 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack; 273 Derry Road, Litchfield; 75 Portsmouth Ave., Exeter 424-5221; 882-4988; 583-5183 www.lobsterboatrestaurant.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Fresh lobster dipped in melted butter or mixed with mayonnaise and piled high on a hot dog bun are both delicious, but deep-fried lobster might just have them beat. At The Lobster Boat, diners can get a plate of straightup fried lobster, or lobster with shrimp for a bit more variety (if you’re feeling extra adventurous, come up with your own two-way combo). All fried dinners are served with French fries and coleslaw for a balanced summer meal. THE SURF FLEUBEN

Surf Restaurant

207 Main St., Nashua; 99 Bow St., Portsmouth 595-9293; 334-9855 www.surfseafood.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: If you’re looking for a fried seafood treat that’s a little less traditional, head over to Surf in Nashua or Portsmouth. Their Surf Fleuben – a riff on the Reuben sandwich – is comprised of crispy fried flounder on grilled rye bread with Cabot cheddar and Thousand Island dressing. Michelle Lahey is a food writer who was born and raised in New Hampshire. She also blogs about food at www.ahoppymedium.blogspot.com..

Photo courtesy of Brown’s Lobster Pound

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Kids and adults alike will love these inspired creations By Michelle Lahey

ew foods scream summer like a good old-fashioned hot dog. From the snap of the casing to the endless topping options, hot dogs are one of the most quintessential foods – especially during this season. Fortunately, chefs from casual dining restaurants to roadside hot dog stands have taken notice, and are dressing up hot dogs in delicious new ways.

AMELIA’S REUBEN

DH’s Doghouse

1451 Front St., Manchester www.facebook.com/DHsDoghouse-114342521940045 WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Amelia’s Reuben (named after the owner’s granddaughter) is just one steamed or grilled creation you can get at DH’s Doghouse – a seasonal spot open April

through November. “There's no weird request at DH's,” said Megan Wilkins, daughter of owner Denis Huard. Although the Amelia is a specialty dog – a 7-inch allbeef Fenway Frank topped with sauerkraut, cheddar cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and bacon bits – you can pretty much create any dog you want here. Topping options are endless, including everything from relish to jalapenos to cheese. “The sky’s the limit,” Wilkins said.

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 23

CHICAGO DOG

JERSEY-STYLE DOG

The Kitchen

Black Mtn. Burger Co.

171 Islington St., Portsmouth 319-8630 www.thekitchenportsmouth.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: It’s not surprising that this frankfurter is a house favorite at The Kitchen. Wrapped in a natural casing, this Old Neighborhoodbrand hot dog is topped with green relish, tomato, pepperoncini, and a pickle spear and served on a potato roll. “We are huge sports fans, so we wanted to offer hot dogs that represent some of our favorite cities,” said Matt Greco, chef and owner. The Manhattan, Greco’s personal favorite, is topped with their house spicy onion sauce, sauerkraut, and yellow mustard. KNOCK DOG

Elm City Brewing Company

Colony Mill Marketplace, 222 West St., Unit 46, Keene 355-3335 www.elmcitybrewing.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: The Knock Dog is basically all about you. With this creation, diners have their choice of grilled knockwurst or bratwurst, served on a grilled garlic French roll that’s topped with the customer’s choice of house-made grain, yellow, or honey mustard. For added flavor, guests can also add chili or sauerkraut, for just a dollar more each. For the full experience, wash down your dog of choice with a beer that’s brewed right on the premises.

264 Main St., Lincoln 745-3444 www.blackmtnburger.com

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: The Jersey-Style Dog is deep-fried and served on a toasted roll, with French fries on the side (which can be substituted with a slew of optional sides, such as poutine, bacon stout baked beans, or house-made mac and cheese, to name a few). Deep-fried not your thing? Black Mtn. also serves up a Chili Dog, a Franks and Beans Dog, and a plain old hot dog for the “kids at heart.” BUILD-YOUR-OWN HOT DOG

Eastern Burger Company 157 Portsmouth Ave., Stratham 580-2096 www.easternburgercompany.com

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: If you like having options, Eastern Burger Company is the place for you. Here, guests can build their own plain or bacon-wrapped dog with a variety of unique and traditional toppings. The more indulgent topping options include mac and cheese, fried pickles, potato sticks, or chili, while the more unique include horseradish aioli, sun-dried tomato and basil aioli, or pickled red onion aioli, to name a few. HOT DOG WITH BACON

Clam Haven

94 Rockingham Road, Derry 434-4679 www.clamhaven.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Clam Haven has been in operation since 1954 – in other words, they

know what they’re doing. Their Hot Dog with Bacon, for example, is a Kasem hot dog that’s wrapped in bacon and deep-fried. Do we really need to go on? To make this dog even better, diners have the option of ordering the Hot Dog Special with Bacon, which gets them two dogs, or topping thier dog with "The Works," which consists of mustard, onion, and relish. BEANS AND DOGS

Gilley’s Diner

175 Fleet St., Portsmouth 431-6343 www.gilleyspmlunch.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Frankfurters and beans may not seem unique, but at Gilley’s, it’s the quality ingredients that set this dish apart. The beans are made from scratch: they’re soaked overnight and baked for a full eight hours. The hot dogs, which are made from beef, pork, and veal, come from Shields Provisions, a family-run business located not far up the road in Kennebunk, Maine. Added bonus: this meal is low on the carbohydrates, as there is no bun – just franks and beans. CHILI CHEESE DOG

KC’s Rib Shack

837 Second St., Manchester 627-7427 www.ribshack.net WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Chili is always better when served on top of a hot dog. At KC’s, they take an all-beef dog and top it with chili, cheese, mustard, and onion. Guests have their choice of one or two dogs, and each frank comes with one side and a pickle – sides include indulgences such as mashed potatoes, mac salad, or baked beans, to name a few. For diners who prefer their dogs chili-less, KC’s also serves up Fenway Franks and franks and beans. Michelle Lahey is a food writer who was born and raised in New Hampshire. She also blogs about food at www. ahoppymedium.blogspot.com.

24 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

We’re the “natural” choice for your child’s next birthday party! Spread Your Wings Days Come play in our Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom!

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Summer Class and Camp Registration Now Open! Classes for 18 months to 18 years. All-dayCamp and half-day gymnastics Summer is back at Gymnastics Villageand with ninja camps 5 years to 14Designed years old. half and full dayfor options (9am-3pm)! for boys and girls from 6 to 14, kids will participate in gymnastics rotations, fitness activities, Ninja Visit www.gymnasticsvillage.com Challenge obstacle courses, games, crafts,class party or CAll 889-8092 for our apparatus like our inflatables, zip-line and more.

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june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 25

Self-discovery through summer Young adults are sure to enjoy these books that will also help them learn about themselves

eing a young adult is a time of discovery, and there is no better way to find your true self than through reading. Tweens and teens yearn to know more about themselves, and young adult authors help their readers find their place in the world. Reading is vital for their emotional and intellectual growth.

Language arts and literature teacher Kevin Grady of St. Mary’s Academy in Longmeadow, Mass., explains the symbiosis between young adult books and teenagers: “[…] teenagers face a great deal of instability and insecurity during an already tumultuous time of life. The best young adult writers are able to capture this feeling, while probing the various social issues that teens encounter on a regular basis.” Many schools require students to read specific books over the summer. Teen Librarian Amy Graves of the Manchester City Library said to “[set] aside some time each day to chip away at requirements. Get it out of the way bit by bit, and you'll have

26 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

time to read something that appeals to you personally.” It’s important for tweens and teens to find time to read books they find exciting and interesting. Taking the time to integrate fun summer reading into their schedule will help make the required texts that much easier to explore, and will further develop their love of reading. If your teen is stuck on where to begin their journey, here are a few summer reads they are sure to enjoy: Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli – If ever there was a book to help your teen learn about the perils of popularity and what it means to be different, Stargirl is it. Brave, confident Stargirl is unlike most others in her school – she dresses differently, brings her pet rat to class, and plays a ukulele. At first she’s popular, but then she is shunned by her peers for being so different. All of which does not stop curious Leo from falling in love with her. As whimsical as it is familiar, Spinelli’s take on nonconformity and young love is heartwarming in its realism and long-lasting in its influence on young readers. Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell – A story about young love is not a unique theme, but Rowell’s Eleanor & Park raises the bar with two intelligent misfits, Eleanor and Park. As 16-year-olds who find a connection with each other, they know anyone’s first love never lasts, but that doesn’t stop them from experiencing it for as long as they can. Pelham High School student Angela Garozzo, 16, said, “Both the main characters contrast so much that they fit together so well. It’s a feel-good book and anyone can easily relate. It’s about breaking stigmas and loving yourself; something that kids today definitely should read about.” Be forewarned though: you may need some tissues. Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan – Percy Jackson, son of Poseidon, God of the Sea, discovers the truth of his family and the powers they possess, which forces him into adventures of mythical proportions. When Jennifer Nugent, Dean of English at Pelham High School,

reading By Amanda Andrews

questioned her class about their favorite series, Percy Jackson was the first mentioned. “[The students] all agreed they enjoyed the action/adventure of the books and [were] able to see the parallels between the mythology they had learned in class and these books. They felt they had gained a deeper understanding of mythology by reading [this series].” Marrying the act of reading for intellectual growth and reading for fun, this book series helps expand a teenager’s studies and partners it with relatable themes such as friendship, bravery and ethical quandaries. The Raven Cycle series by Maggie Stiefvater – This magic-infused fantasy series contains four books that follow the journey of a group of unlikely friends from different worlds as they try to find a long-lost king. With a strong sense of family, this series’ storyline presents many struggles that readers can associate with. By presenting relatable issues in fantasy-like situations, teens can better connect with the characters as they solve their problems and overcome obstacles, leading the reader to perhaps do the same in their own lives. A Season of Daring Greatly by Ellen Emerson White – Teens with an interest in sports will enjoy this story about an 18-year-old girl drafted by a major league baseball team. But with being an all-star, comes the responsibility and pressure of being center stage in a male-dominated industry. Defying gender roles and becoming a role model for girls everywhere, the main character’s struggles to make choices and deal with the doubts that follow, will certainly strike a chord with teens who face similar issues. As a parent or guardian, you should try to give your teen the freedom to discover what they like to read on their own. Support their journey in every way possible, as for some teenagers books are the only escape they have. Encourage self-discovery in your child; it is during this time that teens start to break from the mold of the collective student body and find out how they fit in. If you can, read the same books as they do, so that you can engage with your teen. Jennifer Nugent said, “I would encourage parents/guardians to read at least one book their students are reading. Having that common ground to talk about, and to share, is very important and powerful for the students (and probably for the parents too). It increases engagement, inspires enthusiasm, and encourages deeper understanding.” Having such a dedicated involvement with your teen’s summer reading will help to further develop their love of reading, and may even bring you closer together. Amanda Andrews, an avid reader and admirer of the written word, is a freelance copyeditor and an event coordinator at McLean Communications. You can find her somewhere in the woods of New Hampshire wandering between the pages of a good book. She can be reached at aandrews@mcleancommunications.com.

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Producing their own food helps kids connect with what they eat By Susan Nye

Start a garden with your kids

his is the summer to try to plant your own vegetable garden. While it takes some work and devotion, growing your own food is fun and rewarding. And make sure you get the children involved. Working in a garden connects children with their food and inspires even the pickiest of eaters to become try-most-anything food adventurers. How to start? Like most things, a good garden starts with a plan. Before you head to the garden center filled with ambition and good intent, stop to consider how much time you will have, the amount of sun in your yard and your children’s ages and capabilities. It’s best to start small. It is better to be frustrated by too few vegetables than an unruly garden filled with weeds. You can always visit the pros at the farmers market on Saturday morning if you run short of zucchini.

If this year is a brilliant but too small success, go big next summer. How small is small? My first garden was a handful of pots on an apartment balcony. It was a salad garden. One large pot was filled with mixed greens; a second held a cherry tomato plant; and a few more sprouted basil, chives, cilantro and parsley. With my busy schedule it was just enough. It still is. If you want to take it a step further, build a small, raised bed. Keep it simple this first year; remember it’s better to add a bed or two than pull them down. What to grow? Since it is already June, seedlings are your best bet. Encourage the kids to pick a nice assortment. Cherry tomatoes and small pickling cucumbers are good for children. Zucchini is easy to grow. A few herbs like basil and parsley are nice. After all, who doesn’t like pesto? Build a raised bed garden. A raised bed is easy to build, provides good drainage for your plants and less back strain for you. A simple 3x3 or 4x4-foot bed is a great way to start. Any larger and you will have trouble weeding and harvesting the center row.

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 29

Building a raised bed garden frame

 Cut eight 2x6's into 3- or 4-foot lengths.

 Cut four 4x4's

in 18-inch lengths. Sharpen the ends into stakes.

You will need: • Naturally weather- and rot-resistant wood or recycled composite plastic lumber: — 2x6-inch boards cut into 3- or 4-foot lengths for the sides — 4x4-inch boards cut into 18-inch lengths for the corner posts • 3-inch galvanized screws • Garden soil • Compost or manure • Bark mulch (optional) • Seedlings Tools: • Chop or handsaw, hatchet, drill and screwdriver • Mallet • Shovel or garden fork, rake and trowel • A garden hose with a fine mist spray Build the frame for your raised bed: 1. Cut the corner posts and sharpen one end of each piece with a handsaw or hatchet to make stakes. 2. Cut the sides of the bed. You will need two pieces of 2x6 lumber in 3- or 4-foot lengths for each side, a total of eight.* 3. Pre-drill screw holes on the 2x6's and stakes. Attach the 2x6's to the corner posts with galvanized screws. *Many lumber yards and do-it-yourself stores will cut the wood for you.

Install the frame: 1. Find a nice, sunny, level spot in your yard. Remove grass and weeds. Turn over the soil to a depth of 8 to 12 inches with a shovel or garden fork and pile it up in the center, away from the edges.

30 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

 Predrill the holes.

Assemble the frame with galvanized screws.

2. Set your frame in place and tap down the corners. Use a mallet to drive each corner down a few inches at a time and repeat until the frame is level. Fill the garden: 1. Add compost or manure to the soil piled in the center and use a rake to spread the mix evenly. 2. Add more soil and compost and rake again. 3. Gently water the bed with a fine, even spray. Now that the bed is ready, avoid stepping in it. If you like, create a walkway around the outside of the frame with a thick layer of bark mulch. Plant your seedlings Leave plenty of room to grow between each plant. Your garden shop can advise you or check out spacing guides online. It’s okay to grow only two, three or four plants in your first year. Those tomatoes will taste even sweeter! Use a trowel to dig a hole for each seedling and pop them in. Pull the dirt back around the base of each plant and gently water. Keep the seedlings moist for the next week or two and then water as needed. One last thought… what about fruit? While you won’t get enough for a pie this year, think about adding a blueberry, raspberry or blackberry bush or two to your cart when you are at the garden center. In a year or two, your kids can go out every morning and pick fruit for their cereal. In addition, consider adding a rhubarb plant to your flower garden and planting an apple tree in the backyard. The muffins, cakes, pies and crisps will be delicious! Susan Nye writes for several New England magazines and newspapers. She is the longtime author of PNH’s Cook with your Kids.

Look what’s coming! from

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Don’t miss our award-winning Family Summer Fun Guide. Coming in June, this full-color magazine is the ultimate resource for parents looking for things to do and places to go in New Hampshire. Whether planning a day trip or your family’s vacation, this guide will ensure blue skies ahead for all of your summer adventures!

Available at more than 800 select locations throughout the Central, Southern and Seacoast areas of New Hampshire, as well as NH Welcome Centers in Hooksett (North and South), Lebanon, North Conway, Salem and Seabrook. june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 31

cook•with•your• kids EAT LOCAL, EAT SLOW By Susan Nye

s school ends and summer begins, it is time to eat local and eat slow. The Slow Food movement, around for almost 40 years, has its origins in Italy. The Slow Food movement encourages good, clean and fair food. Good food is delicious and nutritious; clean food is sustainably grown and focuses on local, seasonal production; fair food ensures dignity and fair wages for everyone involved from field to fork. Summer is the easiest time for New Hampshire families to take part in the slow food movement. For the next few months, neighborhood farm stands and farmers markets will be filled with locally grown vegetables, fruits, meats, fish and eggs. In addition, cheeses, ice cream and other local dairy products are easy to find. Or if you like to get your hands in the dirt, perhaps you’ll even grow your own slow food this summer.

RAVIOLI WITH ASPARAGUS & MUSHROOMS Serves 4

• Quick Pickled Red Onion (optional — do ahead — recipe follows) • 2 T. butter • 2 T. minced red onion • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste • 1 small clove garlic, minced • 1/4 c. dry white wine • 1/2 c. chicken stock • Juice of 1-2 lemons

• • • •

1-2 sprig fresh thyme 1 bay leaf Olive oil 8-12 oz. asparagus, trimmed and chopped • 8-12 oz. mushrooms, trimmed and quartered • 1 1/4-1 3/4 lb. homemade, fresh or frozen ravioli • Grated ParmigianoReggiano cheese

Prepare sauce: melt butter in saucepan over medium heat, add shallot, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally until translucent. Add garlic and sauté two minutes more. Add wine and simmer until reduced by half. Add chicken broth, juice of 1/2 lemon, thyme and bay leaf and simmer for five minutes. While sauce simmers, heat a little olive oil in pan over medium high. Add mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and sauté until lightly browned. Add asparagus and mushrooms to sauce and simmer until asparagus is tender-crisp, about three minutes. Meanwhile, prepare ravioli: cook ravioli according to package directions less one minute. Reserve a little pasta water and drain ravioli. Add ravioli to sauce with some or all of the pasta water as necessary and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for one to two minutes. Transfer ravioli and vegetables to a large platter or individual shallow bowls, sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano, garnish with pickled onions and serve.

QUICK PICKLED RED ONION • 1 T. sugar • 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt • 1/2 c. apple cider vinegar

• 1 red onion, thinly sliced • 2-3 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled

• 6 pepper corns • 1 bay leaf

Put sugar, salt and vinegar in Mason jar. Let everything sit for a minute or two to dissolve and give it a good shake. Add a cup of water and shake again. Susan Nye writes for several New England magazines and newspapers. She shares stories and recipes on her award-winning blog Around the Table at www.susannye.wordpress.com.

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Add onion, garlic, peppercorns and bay leaf. If necessary, add a little more vinegar and water to cover the onion. Refrigerate for at least two hours and up to two weeks. Cover and refrigerate the extra onion – it is delicious in salads and on burgers.

CRUMBLY TOPPING • • • • • • • •

1/4 c. all-purpose flour 6 T. brown sugar 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. ginger Pinch nutmeg 3 T. cold, unsalted butter, cut in pieces 1/3 c. oatmeal

Put flour, sugar and spices in small food processor and pulse to combine. Add butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Add oatmeal and pulse until topping comes together in lumps.

RHUBARB CRUMB CAKE Serves 8

• 6 T. butter, at room temperature, plus more for the pan • 1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour, plus more for the pan • Grated zest of 1 orange • 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder • 1/2 tsp. salt • 1/2 tsp. cinnamon • 1/2 tsp. ginger

• • • • •

Pinch nutmeg 1 c. brown sugar 1 large egg 2/3 c. sour cream 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract • About 12 oz. rhubarb, cut in ½-inch pieces • Crumbly Topping (recipe follows)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-inch springform pan or deep-dish pie plate. If using a springform pan, line with parchment paper and butter paper. Dust pan or plate with flour and tap out excess. Put flour, orange zest, baking powder and spices in bowl; whisk to combine. Put butter and sugar in a large bowl and beat with electric mixer until fluffy, about three minutes. Add egg, sour cream and vanilla and beat until smooth. With mixer on low, gradually add dry ingredients. Increase mixer speed to medium and beat until just smooth. Do not overbeat. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange rhubarb on top of the batter in a single layer. Sprinkle with the Crumbly Topping. Bake cake for 10 minutes at 350 degrees. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees and bake until cake is golden and a tester inserted in center comes out clean, about 45-50 minutes. Cool cake in the pan on a rack for 10-15 minutes. Remove springform collar and continue to cool.

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dad on board Daddy-daughter diner time I CONNECT WITH MY TEEN EVERY SATURDAY MORNING OVER CORNED BEEF AND EGGS BY BILL BURKE

M A FAMILY FUN CLUB! JOIN OUR KIDS CLUB! • A birthday shout-out on TV & online • Special kids events with VIP status • Exclusive family e-news 4 times a year • A surprise gift for kids

nhptv.org/kids

34 www.parentingnh.com june 2017 PARENTING NH MAGAZINE APRIL 2017 4.38” x 5.42

y daughter is allergic to eggs, among other things, so being an excellent dad I take her to a diner every Saturday morning. You’d think this would make me the worst father ever, but I think it gets me a little closer to nabbing that Parent of the Year sash I’ve so coveted. I swear I’m not trying to kill her. It’s just that she and I are working our way through every diner in New Hampshire, and unfortunately, that’s where the eggs are. They’re in pancake batter, waffles, and I’m told there are even eggs in omelets now. It’s a bit of a delicate dance, but she’s quite aware of what she can and can’t eat. We’ve managed to avoid any EpiPen adventures or post-breakfast detours to the emergency room. It’s easy enough to stay safe because we both get the same exact thing no matter where our Saturday morning travels take us. It’s the unalterable control in our weekly experiment: I get two eggs scrambled with white toast and coffee, and she gets a side of corned beef hash and tea – for science. It mitigates the allergy risk and lets us judge each diner on its own merits. Her mom will join us occasionally, but she usually sleeps in a bit. I can respect that; it’s just that I’m an early riser – always have been – and I don’t want to sit alone. So I rouse the kid around 6 a.m. and we get on our way. We’re up and out barely ahead of the sun, heading to exotic and far-flung locales ranging from Hampstead to East Hampstead. People, no doubt impressed by my parenting skills, sometimes ask, “How do you get a teenager out of bed so early on a weekend?” I’ll let you in on my secret: I open her bedroom door and say, “Get up.” Then she does. It’s become something I look forward to every week. By the time I go to sleep Friday night, I’m like a kid on Christmas Eve. I know that in just a few hours I’ll be heading off to get some early morning sustenance with my daughter. We’ll talk – because she’s not allowed to be a sullen teen on our early morning routine – and we’ll end up laughing hysterically at something that’s usually really weird. This past weekend we came up with a plan to open our own diner called “Pop’s,” where we’ll only serve things with “pop” in the name – Pop-Tarts, popcorn, popovers and Pop Rocks. After a minute or two of brainstorming, we concluded that we had explored the menu fully and should leave the restauranting to the professionals. When I was a kid, Saturday mornings were all about “Land of the Lost,” cereal and youth hockey games. As an adult, it became a time when we could get errands done. Now, Saturdays are the time when I get to spend an hour with my daughter – talking, laughing and forgetting pretty much anything outside our corner booth. Bill Burke is a writer who lives with his wife and daughter in southern New Hampshire near many, many diners. He is also the managing editor of custom publications for McLean Communications..

raising teens and tweens Let’s talk about sex TIPS ON HOW TO TALK TO YOUR CHILD ABOUT SEX, INTIMACY AND RELATIONSHIPS BY TRACEY TUCKER

or many parents, just the idea of talking about sex or intimacy with their children is frightening. But no topic is more important to talk about given the information available to your kids through peers, media and the internet. The internet in particular exposes kids to content that might be beyond their understanding developmentally and includes scenarios that are unhealthy and detrimental to a child’s understanding or view of intimate relationships. Our kids are constantly being inundated with content regarding sex — and middle school, high school and college campuses are seeing the effects. There are higher rates of alcohol consumption and mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, as well as higher rates of social isolation for kids across all socio-economic spectrums. Conversations are a must for every parent with a teenager or soon-to-be teenager. They can strengthen the bond between parent and child throughout adolescence and adulthood. To help facilitate these conversations, here are a few must do’s: • Normalize conversations around body image, sex and gender roles—encourage your children to talk to you about what they heard from their friends so you can correct misinformation. • Encourage your children to talk about what they see on TV and social media. These are teachable moments and allow for in-depth conversations around what they are exposed to and what they think of it. • Let your child talk about the “school drama” without instant criticism, advice or correction. One of the worst things parents can do when kids begin to talk about their experiences is to tell them what to do, how to do it, why they are wrong or minimize their experience. Kids are experiencing these scenarios for the first time and they need to be involved in solving the problem to gain skills for their future. • Talk about your morals and values with your kids. Let them know what your expectations are as the parent. Let them know they can talk to you when dilemmas arise. • Educate! Whether you talk to your kids about abstinence or safe sex, educate them on all aspects of a safe, healthy intimate experience. We do not want them to feel ashamed about sex and intimacy; we want them to feel empowered about their choices. When they do choose to be involved in an intimate relationship, we want them to be engaged in a healthy and positive one. • Talk about societal gender roles. Unfortunately, there is still a social hierarchy regarding boys who engage in sexual relationships versus girls who engage in sexual relationships. Inform your children of these realities and make it OK for them to talk about it. • Talk about acceptance and tolerance. Every adolescent is on his or her own journey and needs to feel free to make their own choices regardless of what their peers say. • Finally, listen when they talk. Parents are often pained when their pre-teen or teen stops talking to them. If parents stop to listen without judgment or minimizing words when their child does talk, kids will continue to open the door. Kids do not want to be told, “It is just puppy love” or “You are too young to have such intense feelings." They want their parents to guide them as they explore their feelings. Kids that come to their own conclusions bounce back quicker and become more resilient.

Stepping Stones NH

....Coming in August 2017

Stepping Stones NH

Published in partnership with the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities, Stepping Stones NH is packed with inspirational articles and resources, and provides businesses and organizations a direct link to disabled NH individuals, their families and the professionals who support them.

201 7-18

A guidebook for people with disAbilities, their fAmilies, And the professionAls who support them

To AdverTise CAll 603.413.5154

Decour and tw

A specialty publica tion of Parenting New Hampshire, sponsored by

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Tracey Tucker is Executive Director of New Heights: Adventures for Teens and a licensed mental health counselor at Tradeport Counseling Associates in Portsmouth.

june 2017 www.parentingnh.com 35

house calls Why won’t my baby stop crying? WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INFANT COLIC BY AMER AL-NIMR, MD

I PBS KIDS! ON NHPTV WEEKDAYS Cat & The Hat Arthur Wild Kratts Ready Jet Go! Nature Cat Curious George Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Splash & Bubbles Sesame Street Dinosaur Train Peg + Cat

SATURDAY 6:00 AM 6:30 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:00 9:30 10:00 10:30

Peg + Cat Curious George Thomas and Friends Bob the Builder Splash & Bubbles Nature Cat Odd Squad Wild Kratts Ready Jet Go! WordGirl

12:00 PM 12:30 1:00 1:30 2:00 2:30 3:00 3:30 4:00 4:30

Super WHY! Thomas and Friends Sesame Street Dinosaur Train Splash & Bubbles Curious George Nature Cat Ready Jet Go! Odd Squad Odd Squad

SUNDAY 6:00 AM 6:30 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:00 9:30 10:00 10:30

36 www.parentingnh.com june 2017 Parenting NH APRIL 2017 1/4 page: 4.38” X 5.42”

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Bob the Builder Sid the Science Kid Arthur Splash & Bubbles Nature Cat SciGirls Cyberchase Granite State Challenge Odd Squad o rg v. nhpt

6:00 AM 6:30 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:00 9:30 10:00 10:30 11:00 11:30

nfant colic — defined as excessive crying in an infant for no apparent reason — can be extremely distressing for parents and caregivers. Many health providers use the “rule of threes” to define colic: Crying for more than three hours, occurring three or more days per week, starting around three weeks and resolving at about three months of age. Some might be familiar with other interchangeable names used to describe colic and colicky babies such as “fussy baby behavior,” “unsettled baby” or “the period of purple crying.” The exact cause of colic is unknown. Some think it is due to gas pain or a growing digestive system, while others think it relates to a moody or overstimulated baby. The important thing to know is that it is a benign, self-limited condition that resolves over time. Two out of three colicky babies will improve by 12 weeks of age and almost all will resolve by 16 weeks of age. What makes colic go away? The main factors are time and patience. Getting to know your baby takes effort, and understanding that your baby is not rejecting you is an important first step. Finding ways of coping and taking needed breaks is equally important. Sharing the load with a partner or family member can provide you with some much-needed rest. The next step is finding a technique that might help improve the colic. Trying different feeding techniques might be helpful regardless if you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Sometimes children require change of positioning, volume of feed, or feeding schedule to meet the baby’s needs. Frequent burping and decreasing swallowed air sometimes works as well. Other times, soothing techniques go a long way. Gentle rocking, using a pacifier, safe swaddling, stroller or car rides, white noise, swinging, and providing a warm bath are examples that have worked for many parents. Different techniques may work at different times. The process of finding what helps can strengthen your long-term relationship with your child. It is typical for parents to assume colic might be from acid reflux or a nutritional allergy, but use of acid suppression medications has not proven to be effective for colic. Dietary interventions such as changing formula or restricting maternal intake of certain nutrients are considered unproven interventions. Gripe water, Simethicone, probiotics, Lactase and Sucrose are treatments that have been ineffective overall for the treatment of colic. Herbal and homeopathic remedies are not recommended interventions for colic and the benefits may not outweigh the potential risks. Of course, some conditions can seem like colic with similar crying spells. If you are worried about your baby, it is a good idea to tell your provider about your concerns, have them examine your baby and reassure you if nothing else appears to be going on. The most important thing to do during the first few months of life is to develop long-term healthy bonds with your baby as you get to know one another. Amer Al-Nimr, MD is a pediatric gastroenterologist at the Children's Hospital at DartmouthHitchcock. For more information, go to www.chadkids.org.

out about

june

BEST OF NH PARTY 15 THURSDAY

MANCHESTER – Northeast Delta Dental Stadium. Join New Hampshire Magazine for the 16th annual Best of NH Party. Sample food and drink from more than 65 booths while you enjoy a night outside at the ballpark listening to music and live entertainment. The night ends with an amazing fireworks display. Plus, you never know who might show up to the party. In the past, Taylor Swift, Steven Tyler and other celebs have popped in to toast NH's best businesses. One lucky event attendee will win an all-inclusive week’s vacation, including housekeeping and meals, for four at Squam Lake provided by RDC Resort (estimated value, $4,500-$5,500). Ticket sale proceeds benefit Stay Work Play. 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $65; age 4-10, $19. www.nhmagazine.com

KIRKWOOD GARDENS DAY 3 SATURDAY

HOLDERNESS – Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, 23 Science Center Drive. Kirkwood Gardens Day is known as the garden sale with the best prices and plants in the area. Both the upper and lower lawns at Kirkwood Gardens will host this annual garden sale that offers hardy New England grown perennials and herbs, expert gardening advice, a garden treasures sale of gently used items, exceptional wares from vendors, and home-baked goods and beverages for sale. There will also be a silent auction featuring plants and garden items. All proceeds benefit Kirkwood Gardens, established in 1995 in honor of Grace "Sunny" Kirkwood, who served on the Science Center's Board of Trustees for six years. Rain or shine. 9 a.m. to noon. 968-7194; www. nhnature.org

74TH ANNUAL NH SOAPBOX DERBY 4 SUNDAY

DOVER – Broadway at Oak Street. Boys and girls ages 7 to 20 build then race in gravity-powered cars. Participating in soap box derby provides racers the opportunity to sharpen their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) skills. Bring your chair and take a seat along the race course and cheer on more than 30 racers in side-by-side competition. Free for spectators. Racing starts at 10 a.m. www.nhsoapboxderby.com

CURTAINS, YOUNG AT PART 6 TUESDAY7 WEDNESDAY

MANCHESTER – Palace Theatre, 80 Hanover St. The musical Curtains, Young At Part is a send-up of backstage murder mystery plots. Set in 1959 Boston, it chronicles the fallout when Jessica Cranshaw, the supremely

untalented star of Robbin' Hood of the Old West, is murdered during her opening night curtain call. It is up to Lt. Frank Cioffi, a police detective who moonlights as a musical theater fan, to save the show, solve the case, and maybe even find love before the show reopens, without getting killed himself. Presented by the Palace Teen Apprentice Co. Tickets: adults, $15; children, $10. Show time is 7:30 p.m. each night. 668-5588; www.palacetheatre.org

Tickets: $20. 8 p.m. 437-5210; www.stockbridgetheatre.com

KIDS CON NEW ENGLAND 11 SUNDAY

NASHUA – Radisson Hotel, 11 Tara Boulevard. This event promotes art education and literacy through comics with

more than 60 kid-focused, familyfriendly artists and creators, fun activities, face painters, balloonists, Jedi training, play with pirates, superheroes meet and greet, games, costume contests, coloring and activity tables, cartooning workshops and more. Parenting NH is a proud sponsor. Tickets: adults, $12; child, $10; under 5, free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.kidsconne.com

LES MISERABLES: THE CONCERT 10 SATURDAY

DERRY – Stockbridge Theatre, Pinkerton Academy, 5 Pinkerton St. The Pine Street Players at Christ Church present Les Miserables: The Concert. Under the direction of Suzanne Jalbert Jones and Lexi Meunier, the concert features professional singers from across the country, including many cast members of Pinkerton Academy’s 2009 production of Les Miserables and other Pinkerton Player alumni.

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ROCK N’ RIBFEST 16 FRIDAY18 SUNDAY

MERRIMACK -- Anheuser-Busch Brewery, 221 Daniel Webster Highway. Enjoy the best barbecue in New Hampshire with music and entertainment at New England’s premier family event – one weekend only at Anheuser-Busch in Merrimack. Proceeds from the Rotary Rock’n Ribfest go to support area nonprofit organizations, so come on out, eat, and help others. Tickets: $10 at the gate; $7 if purchased online. Friday, 4 to 11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. www. ribfestnh.com

NH HOMESCHOOLING COALITION WORKSHOP 17 SATURDAY

MANCHESTER – Nackey Loeb School of Communications, 749 East Industrial Park Drive. Topics of the spring workshop for the NH Homeschooling Coalition include an overview of legal rights and responsibilities, followed by two interactive panels of experienced homeschoolers: “Homeschooling Sampler” and “Homeschooling High

School.” 9 a.m. to noon. Fee: $10. 5393551; www.nhhomeschooling.org

SEACOAST FOOD TRUCK & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL 18 SUNDAY

SOMERSWORTH – High Street. Food Truck Festivals of America is heading to New Hampshire for the first-ever Seacoast Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival. Event features some of New England's most popular food trucks, dishing out fan favorites, and dozens of regional and national craft breweries. Admission tickets: $5 in advance; $10 at gate. Children under 12 get in free. Beer tickets will be sold on-site; VIP tickets available. Noon to 6 p.m. www. foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com

CONCORD MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL 24 SATURDAY

CONCORD – State House Lawn. Celebrate the diversity of the Capital Region with delicious ethnic foods, cultural performances, engaging activities and

38 www.parentingnh.com june 2017

more. Festival organized by We Are Concord (formerly Concord Area Task Force against Racism and Intolerance) and JLiv Inspirations. Held in conjunction with Intown Concord's annual Market Days. 2 to 6:30 p.m. Free admission. www. concordnhmulticulturalfestival.org

ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY 24 SATURDAY

PETERBOROUGH – Peterborough Players, 55 Hadley Road. Alexander is having a bad day. A terrible day. A horrible day. To be quite honest, it's a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. But then, everybody has bad days, sometimes. In this adaptation of her popular book, Judith Viorst sets Alexander's rather trying life to music and brings to the stage one of America's feistiest characters. A musical perfect for audiences of all ages. Also presented on June 30 and various dates in July. Today’s performance is at 10:30 a.m. Tickets: adults, $10; child, $8. 924-7585; www. peterboroughplayers.org

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CHAD EAST-WEST NH HIGH SCHOOL ALL-STAR FOOTBALL GAME 30 FRIDAY MANCHESTER – St. Anselm College. More than 80 of New Hampshire’s top football players will meet up for one final game to raise money for the families and services at the Children’s Hospital at DartmouthHitchcock. And they’ll do it under Friday Night Lights. The 2017 CHaD East-West NH High School All-Star Football Game, powered by Bedford and Nashua Ambulatory Surgical Centers, is a familyfriendly event that pits seniors from high schools across the state in an East vs. West battle while also teaching them about community service, philanthropy, and humility. 7 p.m. Tickets: $10. www. chadallstarfootball.org

five•for families

COMPILED BY JACQUELINE TOURVILLE

Build Fairy and Gnome Homes: On Sunday, June 4, celebrate fairies and other wee folk at the annual Fairy & Gnome Festival, hosted by the Kimball Jenkins Estate in Concord, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn how to construct imaginative miniature houses for fairies and gnomes using materials found in nature, and meet Tracy Kane, local author of the best-selling Fairy Houses books. All supplies will be provided and refreshments served. Rain or shine. Tickets are $10 per person in advance; $15 at the door. www.kimballjenkins.com

Free Day at the Museum: On Saturday, June 17, it’s free admission day for all New Hampshire residents at the Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm. Located in Tamworth in the state’s scenic Lakes Region, the museum offers hands-on learning about New Hampshire’s rural past. Visitors can experience what a doctor’s appointment in the 19th century was like, take part in farm chores, take a break for story time, make a keepsake craft, and learn about all the upcoming events taking place at the museum this summer. www.remickmuseum.org

Supercalifragilistic Family Fun: Mary Poppins pops by for a visit this summer as Prescott Park Arts Festival’s featured musical. Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Mary Poppins is ready to deliver her first spoonful of sugar on Friday, June 23, at 8 p.m. Can’t make it for opening night? Check out upcoming summer show times, and information on how to reserve blankets and tables at www.prescottpark.org.

As New Hampshire shifts into summer, the calendar is filling up fast with kid-friendly festivals and events for all ages. What’s there to do near you? Check out these five picks to jump-start the season with family fun.

For Kids Who Are Into Comic Books: Kids Con New England, the first and only comic book convention in the region that’s just for kids, takes place this year on Sunday, June 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel in Nashua. Come dressed in your favorite cosplay and get ready to meet over 60 kid-focused, family-friendly artists and creators. Plus, take part in Jedi training, play with pirates, meet and greet your favorite superheroes, compete in comic-themed games, enter a costume contest and sketch-off, take a drop-in cartooning lesson, and more. Parenting NH is one of the sponsors! www.kidsconne.com

Multicultural Festival: At Concord’s Annual Multicultural Festival on Saturday, June 24, from 2 to 6 p.m., the State House lawn will come alive with delicious ethnic foods, cultural performances, and fun cross-cultural activities that celebrate the many diverse people who call New Hampshire home. Organized by We Are Concord, activities include henna art by local Bhutanese students, hair braiding, karate demonstrations, sand art, Chinese calligraphy and paper cutting, and beaded necklace making. Festival admission is free. www.concordnhmulticulturalfestival.org

Jacqueline Tourville is a freelance writer and PNH’s travel and tourism expert..

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