Bilingüitos

Bilingüitos! New Mexico Mom Starts Bilingual Play Group Based on National Model

By EFRAIN VILLA

It is one of those paradoxes we all at some point come to grips with – if one wants help getting something done, one should ask a busy person. Then it would make sense to trust new parents to know how to put their noses to the grindstone and get the hard stuff done. Between routine pediatric appointments, potty training sessions, mealtime meltdowns, not to mention intense bouts of sleeplessness, it is safe to say that new parents are some of the busiest people around.

Perhaps the biggest challenge parents face is determining what type of upbringing will yield the greatest advantage for their children. It can seem like every decision is ultra-charged with significance and can heavily influence a child’s path for the rest of their life.

Is an urban home setting preferable to a rural location for child rearing? Is it OK if infants are formula-fed instead of breastfed? Should kids be homeschooled, and if so, for how long?

For busy Ana Casas-Davila and her husband, both of whom are bilingual in Spanish and English, deciding what language they would use to raise their now 3-year-old daughter was initially a complicated choice. They debated whether it would be wiser to teach her Spanish and English at the same time or whether Spanish or English should be a primary language, with the second language gradually added as she got older and began going to school.

“Primarily it was a cultural decision for us,” said Casas-Davila. “It’s of cultural importance to know where we come from, and I want my daughter to be able to communicate with her grandparents. Yes, they know some English, but it’s not the same as speaking in your native tongue, and none of the other grandchildren know Spanish and can communicate fluently with my mom. Being able to bond with my mom and my husband’s mother was probably even more important than the childhood developmental advantages of being exposed to two languages, which are also obviously very important. When we did research, we came across information on how there is a part of your brain that is

Oliver Gomez, 2, and Aviana Sol Dávila, 3, play "Chase Me Dinosaur" during a Bilingüitos playdate at Tin Can Alley food hall in Albuquerque. Photo by Ana Dávila. developed when you’re learning multiple languages and it helps you in other areas in life. That’s all I had to know to reassure me. I want to give my daughter those tools.”

But even after the Casas-Davilas decided to raise their child in Spanish until she entered pre-school, where she could quickly develop English skills, the resources needed for childhood socialization in Spanish were not easy to find in Albuquerque, where the Casas-Davila family live.

“I was looking for kids her age who were also being brought up in bilingualism, in Spanish, or anything along those lines for playdates or kids’ programs. I tried Facebook groups at first,” Casas-Davila said. “I thought it would be easier but that didn’t yield any results, so I just dug a little deeper and the Bilingüitos website popped up and I thought I had found a solution. As I started scrolling down their website for locations, I got really excited when I saw Albuquerque… and there was nothing. Nothing anywhere near Albuquerque. Not even in the entire state of New Mexico, because at that point I was willing to travel to other cities in the state. That’s how important this was to me.”

According to their website, Bilingüitos, which translates from Spanish to “bilingual little ones,” is a community group founded in 2016 by Kaila Diaz to provide families in Northern Virginia with Spanish language input for their kids through game-based educational programs. It quickly grew and expanded to not only include in-person instruction, but also online resources such as a network for bilingual families and the Bilingual Parenting Podcast as well. In addition to the programs and resources, a community of families sprung up around the shared passion for language.

Their mission is to cultivate and celebrate bilingualism, and to help parents do the same by providing resources that equip parents with the knowledge and tools they need.

In addition to the online resources, Casas-Davila was especially interested in the in-person playdates known as GrupoPLAY Meetups. These playdates have become an integral part of Bilingüitos, and for CasasDavila, the social opportunities they afforded were especially valuable as the world came out of a years-long pandemic.

The idea behind the playdates is that since kids typically see English as the language of play (due to peer influence, school, etc.), it is important to model Spanish conversations around them. By hearing adults communicate with each other in Spanish, children normalize the language and begin understanding its social value beyond the home. Kids can speak whatever language they prefer during playdates, but the adults are requested to speak only Spanish, even if they are not fluent.

There are currently 24 locations around the United States meeting regularly, but until Casas-Davila began her research, there were none in New Mexico.

In the summer of 2022, she received a lengthy application to determine if she was the right person to lead a group. “I was impressed with the questions they asked because it made me focus on why we were even interested in doing this,” she said. “Why do we want her to be bilingual? How has me being bilingual impacted my life? The more and more I went through the questionnaire, the more validated I felt in wanting to do this.”

By fall, Casas-Davila was ready to begin organizing her first GrupoPlay Meetup in Albuquerque. She posted a notice on her Facebook page, and within 48 hours she had a group. “In the first 10 hours we already had three people interested,” said Casas-Davila. “I was super happy with those first three, but 24 hours later it had grown to 14.”

The playdates take place on the second Saturday of the month and typically last about an hour. Children up to age 12 can participate. Meetings typically take place in public parks but may move indoors in colder weather.

Casas-Davila says parents and caregivers do not have to be fluent in Spanish, but a concerted effort is made to keep all adult communication in Spanish around the children. “The purpose of speaking Spanish is definitely not to alienate anyone, and we welcome Spanish-speaking caregivers of all fluency levels, but we do want to celebrate the language and model it in use, so kids see it’s not just a language that is spoken at home,” she said. For more information visit Bilinguitos.com/registration

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but times, places & dates of events can change, so be sure to call ahead. Events listed are child- and teen- appropriate to the best of our knowledge. As families have different ideas of “age appropriate,” we encourage you to confirm that any activity you attend is appropriate for your child. To have your events listed free in our next calendar, fill out our calendar form at newmexicokids.com or send date, time, place, cost, description of activity, sponsoring organization and contact phone to kids@newmexicokids.com. The deadline is Feb. 15 for listings in March/April calendar. Listings are not guaranteed because of space limits. Phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.

December Highlights

Arts &Crafts

17, Family Art Workshops, 1-2:30pm. All ages enjoy projects with a variety of art mediums, all materials supplied; child and grown-up friendly. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov. 20, Hanukkah Crafts for Kids, 3:304:30pm. Create things to celebrate the Festival of Lights; all materials provided; ages 6+, registration required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 2916260, abqlibrary.org. 27, Snow Globe Crafts for Kids, 3:304:30pm. Create snowman scenes using cotton swabs, paper and sparkles. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, cabq.gov/events/snow-globecraft-for-kids.

Classes & Workshops

18, 25, Meditation for Kids, In Per-

son, 10-11:30am. In this fun class, children build inner strength and confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching and activities to increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-10, masks required. By donation, Kadampa Meditation Center NM, 142 Monroe NE, 292-5293, meditationinnewmexico.org/calendar.

Cultural Centers & Museums

7, Free First Wednesday ABQ Muse-

um, 9am-5pm, 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 243-7255, holdmyticket.com.

18, Free Sunday Mornings at ABQ

Museum, 9am-1pm, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov. 21, 28, Toddler Time, 9-10am. Explora opens an hour early for caregivers and toddlers to enjoy early childhood exhibit areas, story time and a music jam. Included with admission/free members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 224-8323, explora.us. 31, New Year’s Eve at Explora, 10am2pm. This family celebration will feature two indoor balloon drops at noon with 2,023 balloons, music and raffles; all ages. Tickets limited, reserve in advance. Included with admission, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

31, New Year’s Eve Before Dark,

10am-2pm. A family-friendly celebration; create a new-year inspired artwork, tour the museum galleries. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov.

31, Ring in the New Year with Bal-

loons, Balloons, Balloons!, 9amnoon. Visitors can take part in balloon science activities, make New Year’s crafts, listen to live music and explore the exhibits. Free, ABQ Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, cabq.gov/artsculture/balloonmuseum/events, 768-6020.

Dance

16-18, Festival Ballet ABQ: “Nutcracker in the Land of Enchant-

ment,” 7pm, Fri; 2 & 7pm, Sat & Sun. This holiday classic is transported to territorial NM in the late 1800s with Spanish dancers, southwestern snakes, Mr. Coyote and Mrs. Roadrunner. $49/$39/$29/$20/$14 with $2 discount, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, festivalballetabq.org.

17-18, 31, Cultural Dance Program,

noon, Sats & Suns. Pueblo communities celebrate seasonal cycles through prayer, song and dance. These dances connect ancestors, community, and traditions while honoring gifts from the Creator. Included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.

17, 23-24, “The Nutcracker” by Ballet

Repertory Theatre, 1, 2, 7pm, Sats; 2, 7pm, Fris; 2pm, Sun. A holiday tradition full of mischievous mice, sweet dancing treats and a sprinkle of sparkling snowflakes; family-friendly. Nutcracker Tea to follow on Dec 24, $5 additional to meet the characters and enjoy treats. $22-$30, KiMo Theatre, 423 Central NW, 888-1054, brtnm.com, kimotickets.com.

Exhibits

17-31, “Stitched... Woven... Appliqued... Embellished...

Pieced.”Artists are encouraged to explore all possibilities fiber brings to art. Free, Placitas Community Library, 453 Hwy 165, 867-3355, placitaslibrary.com.

19-31, Native American Youth Art Show, “Who is your Superhero?”

9am-4pm. This annual exhibit was established in 1979 to encourage creativity among Native youth. This year’s focus is on “superheroes.” Included with admission/free for members, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.

19-31, Pueblo Gingerbread House In-

Person Lobby Display, 9am-4pm. Children, adults and seniors have entered these houses on display inspired by a Pueblo village, house community church or historic building into a contest. Included with admission/free members, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW. 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.

19-31, “Roving with Perseverance,”

9am-5pm. This exhibit is one of only a few places across the nation to host fullscale replicas of the Mars rover Perseverance and the helicopter Ingenuity plus information and images from this mission. Included with admission, NM Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2840, visitalbuquerque.org/event/roving-with-perseverance/51899/.

Library Events

17, Gingerbread House Decorating,

3:30-4:30pm. Make a gingerbread house to celebrate the holidays. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 2916295, abqlibrary.org.

17, Special Christmas Story Time and

Crafts, 2-3:30pm. Read stories, do activities and crafts and have Christmas treats; all materials provided; ages 3+, registration required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org. 20, Gingerbread Extravaganza, 4:306:30pm. Ages 6-17 can build a gingerbread house; ages 5 and under can decorate a gingerbread man. First come, first served while supplies last. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8081 Central NW, 7684320, abqlibrary.org. 22, Reindeer Games for Kids, 3:304:30pm. Win a penguin relay race, draw a snowman on your head & collect snowballs just like Rudolph and friends; for ages 6+, registration required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 2916260, abqlibrary.org.

28, Winter-Themed Bingo for Kids,

3:30-4:30pm. Come and play winterthemed bingo, maybe win a prize; ages 6+, registration required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org. 31, New Year’s Before Dark, 10am, multiple ABQ libraries. Crafts, resolutions, puzzles and more; see website for full details. Free, abqlibrary.org.

Fair and Festivals

17, 2nd & Biggest Holiday Market 2022,

10am-2pm. Thirty five local artists and artisans will be presenting handmade arts and crafts. Free, Los Ranchos Art Market, 6718 Rio Grande NW, 978-5786297, newmexico.org. 17, Mandala Festival, 10am-5pm. Gather for the creation of a Mandala using different kinds of grains and seeds. The seeds serve to feed migratory songbirds and the mandala remains in place for a week. Creating the mandala takes all day; storytelling at 11am. Free, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/openspace/events/mandala-festival-1, 768-4951. 19-23, Trolly of Lights, 6 & 8pm. Luminarias, nutcrackers, egg nog and holiday lights. A 75-minute tour starting in Old Town; all ages. $18-$28/free lap-sitters under age 5, Hotel ABQ, 800 Rio Grande NW, tourabq.com/abqtrolley.

19-31, Lights of Enchantment 2022

Tree Lighting and Choir Contest, 49:30pm. NM’s largest drive-thru Christmas light display with tunnels of lights and music; all ages; see website for details. $49.95+, Sandia Speedway, 100 Speedway Park, lightsofenchantment.com.

29-31, Winter Wonderland 2022,

6pm. A drive-thru experience with a full walk-thru tour featuring live actors, vendors, hot cocoa and photos with Santa; a portion of ticket price will be donated to Ronald McDonald House. $45-$75, Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, winterwonderlandnm.com.

School Break Camps

21-23 & 27-30, Science is Everywhere Winter Break Single Day Camps:

“Science of Survival,” 7:30am-5:30pm, (free before- and after-care, 7:30-8:30am & 3:30-5:30pm). Students K-6th grade will enjoy multi-age collaborative experiences; see website for details. $75/$70 members each day, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

26-30, Explora STEAM Half-Day

Winter Camps, 9am-noon or 1-4pm. A variety of winter programs that provide STEAM engagement and enrichment for grades PreK-9. $50/$45, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/programs/camps.

26-30, Exploration Winter Camps,

9am-noon. This elementary-aged youth program includes hiking and outdoor exploration, hands-on science, literacy and art activities. Children should attend camp prepared to explore the outdoors. $30 per child/per camp, Open Space, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, cabq.gov/openspace.

28-30, School Break Explorer Camp:

Winter Bosque Habitats (ages 6-10), 9am-noon. Elementary-age youth join a park ranger and education assistant for fun and in-depth learning about the natural world around them; hands-on science, literacy and art activities; registration required. $30 per camp, Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, cabq.gov.

Science & Nature

17, Saturday Explorer Camp, Ages 6-

10, “All About Adaptions,” 9amnoon. This youth program includes hiking and outdoor exploration, hands-on science, literacy and art activities; registration required at play.cabq.gov. $10 per child/per session. Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/open-space.

24 & 25, 31, Saturday & Sunday Guid-

ed Bird Walks, 8:30-10am. Join a volunteer naturalist and fellow birders for a guided walk; limited to 12, please register. $3 parking/day use fee, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

Stage

16-18, 22-24, 30-31, Rodgers & Ham-

mersteins “Cinderella,” 7:30pm, Fri & Sat; 2pm, Sun. Adapted for the stage, with warmth and hilarity, this fairytale warms the hearts of children and adults alike. $25, Musical Theater Southwest, 6320 Domingo NE, Suite B, 243-0596, mtsabq.org/box-office/cinderella.

17, 7th Annual Children’s Messiah,

10:30am-noon. Voices of NM joins guest middle school and high school choruses from Rio Rancho, ABQ and Tijeras for a family-friendly performance of Handel’s Messiah; please bring two non-perishable food items, a comfy pillow and wear something festive if you can. Free, Cathedral of St. John, 318 Silver SW, 821-1956, polyphonynm.com. 18, “All Holidays,” 11am. A short holiday play with classic songs presented by Happy Stages, at Therapeutic Theater Arts and Film Production Collaborative. There will be a holiday craft market in the lobby. Free/donations accepted, N4th, Theater/North 4th Arts Center, 4904 4th NW, 345-2872, northfourthnm.org/n4th-theater.

31, Opera Southwest Presents New

Year’s with the Opera, 2:30pm. A variety show featuring Opera Southwest’s recent performers, the ABQ Youth Symphony and the Opera SW Chamber Orchestra with a variety of opera favorites and light classics. $53/$63/$73, ABQ Journal Theatre, 1701 4th SW, 7244771, nhccnm.org.

Storytelling

17, Storytelling Under the Cotton-

wood, 10:30am-noon. Hear wisdom tales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org. Animal Tales with the BioPark, various libraries, dates and times. Enjoy the reading of an animal-related book. The BioPark will bring animals and biofacts that represent the animals in the story for kids to meet. Free, abqlibrary.org.

Just for Teens

21, Science Fiction or Fact “The Martian,” 2015 [PG-13]. Experience the movie projected in the Planetarium and after, join a discussion about the movie’s merits by educators and guests, also view the night sky in the Observatory. Admission by donation, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 8412800, nmnaturalhistory.org/events.

Also of Interest

14, 17, 18, World Cup Watch Party

on Civic Plaza, 11am-2pm. Games will be shown on the Plaza’s 16’ x 30’ highdefinition video display. Free, Civic Plaza, 1 Civic Plaza, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/events. 16, Painting in Santa’s Workshop, 57pm. Paint in Santa’s Workshop with snacks and drinks provided. Free, Joan Jones Community Center, 3828 Rincon NE, 836-8810, cabq.gov/family/events.

17, A Holiday Grinchmas Celebra-

tion, 4:30-7pm. Refreshments and treats, holiday music, pictures with Santa and the Grinch, arts & crafts, free toys and featuring the ABQ Youth Symphony. Free, Mesa Verde Community Center, 7900 Marquette NE, 767-5920, cabq.gov/family/events/a-holiday-grinchmas-celebration. 17, Hanukkah Family Night, 46:30pm. A night of family fun with menorah making, dreidel games and snacks; call to reserve a spot. ABQ Jewish Community Center, 5520 Wyoming, NE, 4184480, jccabq.org.

17, NM Farolito “Trail of Lights,”

5:15pm, Twilight Kids K; 5:30pm, 5K. A holiday walk and run surrounded by 2,500 farolitos (luminarias). Long-sleeved tee for all registered participants, posole, hot chocolate, hot air balloons and Santa. Participants must pick up their packets in advance. See website for pricing, SW Indian Polytechnic Institute, 9169 Coors NW, irunfit.org.

18, Chanukah Night Glow and Con-

cert, 4:30-6pm. A live concert with Tali Yess featuring the world’s only menorah made out of nine hot air balloons; gifts, gelt, dreidels and gifts for all children; all ages, reservations required. Free, Balloon Fiesta Park, 9401 Museum NE, 8801181, MenorahGlow.com.

18, Corrales Special Christmas

Growers Market, 11am-1pm. Providing community access to sustainable sources of locally grown food. Free, 500 Jones, Corrales, corralesgrowersmarket.com. 18, Israeli Dance Hanukkah Party, 24pm. Two uninterrupted hours of dancing, socializing and food; RSVPs appreciated. Free, JCC of Greater ABQ, 5520 Wyoming NE, jccabq.org. 19-23 & 26-30, River of Lights. NM’s original and largest walk-through holiday attraction. Purchased timed tickets to view more than 700 light displays, animated 3D sculptures and millions of twinkling lights while strolling on the one-way path. $14/$7 ages 3-12, MonsThus; $17/$9 ages 3-12, Fris-Suns; free ages 2 and under. ABQ BioPark, 903 10th SW, cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark/events/riv er-of-lights.

20, The Illusionists - Magic of the

Holidays, 7:30pm. A mix of outrageous and astonishing acts packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions; all ages, $40-$75, Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell NE, 277-3824, popejoypresents.com. 24, The ABQ Luminaria Tour, 5:307:45pm. View the luminarias in Old Town and the Country Club area from the comfort of a bus in this approximately 45 minute tour. $1.50+, ABQ Convention Center, 401 2nd NW, luminariatour.com.

Penny

January

Arts & Crafts

7, 14, 21, 28, Family Art Workshops,

1-2:30pm. All ages can enjoy projects with a variety of art mediums, all materials supplied; child and grown-up friendly. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov.

18, Sock Snow People Craft for

Kids, 3:30-4:30pm. Make snow people out of socks and rice; materials provided; ages 6+. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

21, Lunar New Year Crafts for Kids,

2-3pm. Learn about the holiday, make crafts and have treats to welcome the year of the rabbit; ages 6+; registration required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

Classes & Workshops

1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Meditation for Kids,

10-11:30am. In this fun class, children build inner strength and confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching and activities to increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-10, masks required. By donation, Kadampa Meditation Center NM, 142 Monroe NE, 292-5293, meditationinnewmexico.org/calendar.

Cultural Centers & Museums

1-6, Pueblo Gingerbread House In-

Person Lobby Display, 9am-4pm. Children, adults and seniors have entered these houses on display inspired by a Pueblo village, house community church or historic building into a contest. Included with admission/free members, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.

1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Free Sunday Morn-

ings at ABQ Museum, 9am-1pm, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Toddler Time, 9-10am. Explora opens an hour early for caregivers and toddlers to enjoy early childhood exhibit areas, story time and a music jam. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

4, Free First Wednesday ABQ Muse-

um, 9am-5pm. General admission is free on this day. 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 243-7255, holdmyticket.com.

7, Sensory-friendly time at Explora,

9-10am. A lower-sensory hour with adaptations for a quieter visit with limited attendance, noise and light reduction, full-immersion sensory kits, and additional calming space for breaks; tickets available via registration, included with admission/free for members/under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072. explora.us. Visual Arts Museum, Free for ages 16 and under and First Sunday for NM Residents, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org.

Dance

1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29, Cultural

Dance Program, noon, Sats & Suns. Pueblo communities celebrate seasonal cycles through prayer, song and dance. These dances connect ancestors, community, and traditions while honoring gifts from the Creator. Included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.

Exhibits

1-8, Native American Youth Art Show, “Who is your Superhero?,”

9am-4pm. This annual exhibit was established in 1979 to encourage creativity among Native youth. This year’s focus is on “superheroes.” Included with admission/free for members, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.

1-31, “Roving with Perseverance,”

9am-5pm. This exhibit is one of only a few places across the nation to host fullscale replicas of the Mars rover Perseverance and the helicopter Ingenuity. Find information and images from this mission. Included with admission, NM Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2840, visitalbuquerque.org/event/roving-with-perseverance/51899/. 6, First Friday Fractals, 6 & 7pm. An award-winning full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature and zooms through complex mathematical fractals. The show features original music and is educational and entertaining; ages 3+. $5 ages 312/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org/ events/first-friday-fractals

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

6, Fractals Rock!, 8 & 9pm. An awardwinning full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature with less talk and more rock. They include more 3D fractal zooms (which can make some people motion sick) and very little explanation; ages 3+. $5 ages 3-12/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org/events/first-fridayfractals.

Library Events

Area Libraries offer activities like Lego Club, Book Groups, Read to the Dogs, Story Times, Crafts,

Movies and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com.

1-31, January is National Book Blitz

Month. Pick up a list of prompts to help whittle down your “To Be Read” list. Complete the list and get a small prize; all ages. Free, Taylor Ranch Library, 5700 Bogart St. NW, 897-8816, abqlibrary.org. 4, Handmade Butter, 4-5pm. Learn how to make butter, discover butter infusions and engage in a centuries-old craft. Supplies limited, registration required; ages 6+. Free, Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache NE, 291-6264, abqlibrary.org. 19, LED Flashlights, 3:30pm. Learn how to create a simple circuit flashlight. Free, Ernie Pyle Library, 900 Girard SE, 2562065, abqlibrary.org. 20, Drawing in 3D, 3:30-5pm. Make drawings come alive using 3D printing pens. Freehand a design or use provided templates to make a creation to take home. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5141, abqlibrary.org. 25, Sound is All Around, 10:30-11:30am. Preschoolers can explore sound using a variety of musical instruments and other objects. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE, 764-1742, abqlibrary.org.

26, NM Wildlife Demonstration,

3:30-4:15pm. NM Dept of Game and Fish will give a presentation by using skulls, hides, antlers & horns; ages 7 and up. Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 836-0684, abqlibrary.org. 28, Backyard Chicken Keeping, 34:30pm. Join a 4-H agent for discussions about the breeds of chickens that can be kept in the backyard. Learn how to predator-proof the coop and watch a handson demo to see how to safely clip their wings to prevent them from flying the coop; registration required. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. Flying Orbs, various times, dates, age groups and library locations. Learn how to suspend a metallic orb in midair with only the power of negative static charge. Free, abqlibrary.org. Lava Lamps, various times, dates and library locations. To learn about intermolecular polarity, travel back into the ‘70s with this mesmerizing lava lamp density experiment; for ages 5+, abqlibrary.org.

Music

14, Concerts @ the Library:

Turquoise Blues, 3-4pm. Turquoise Blues blends traditional and modern blues, rock and a country sound with pure powerful vocals and smooth instrumentations. Free, Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache NE, 291-6264, abqlibrary.org.

School Break Camps

2-3, Explora Half-Day Winter

Camps, 9am-noon or 1-4pm. A variety of winter programs that provide STEAM engagement and enrichment for grades PreK-9. $50/$45, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/programs/camps.

3, Explora School’s Out Camp, PreK:

“Mighty Magnets” 9am-noon. Attracting and repelling magnets make for fun explorations. Financial aid available on request. $50/$45 members, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

16, Martin Luther King Jr Day Camp, Nuclear History Museum, “Falling

for Physics,” 7:30am-5:30pm, (free before- and after-care 7:30-8:30am & 3:30-5:30pm). Students K-3 will learn about the forces that shape the world by exploring electricity and magnets. $75/$70 members, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

Science & Nature

1, 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 28 & 29, Saturday & Sunday Guided Bird Walks,

8:30-10am. Join a volunteer naturalist and fellow birders for a guided walk; limited to 12, please register. $3 parking/ day use fee, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org. 8, Bosque Wild Guided Hike, 8amnoon. A guided hike with volunteers; bring water, wear comfy shoes and dress for weather, no pets please, they can scare critters. Reservations required. Free, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, cabq.gov/ parksandrecreation/open-space.

14, Rocket Launch & HP Monitoring,

9am. Low and high power launches for all ages, Level 1 High Power Mentoring, ages 12-17. There are no restroom facilities or water available at the site. RSVP sdg@nmsciencefoundation.org or text 609-9609. Free, ABQ Rocket Society Rio Rancho Launch site, arsabq.org/meetings.htm, tripoli.org/tmp.

21, Mountain Hiking Adventures for

All Ages, 9:30am. Enjoy the outdoors and history. Departure from Elena Gallegos, Pino Trail Parking Area; destination: Pino Canon, campfire and plane crash marker. Be prepared for snow, hotdogs and marshmallows (approximately 4 hours). Free, RSVP sdg@nmsciencefoundation.org or text 609-9609.

State Parks Free Entrance Days:

details can be found at nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks-state.htm.

Storytelling

Area Libraries offer various story-

telling events regularly. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com.

21, Storytelling Under the Cotton-

wood, 10:30am-noon. Hear wisdom tales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

Animal Tales with the BioPark.

Enjoy the reading of an animal-related book. The BioPark will bring animals and biofacts that represent the animals in the story for kids to meet. Free, various libraries, dates and times, abqlibrary.org.

Just for Teens

14, Steampunk Crafts, 3-5pm. For ages 13+, registration required. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE , 764-1742, abqlibrary.org. 14, Vision Boards 2023, 2-4pm. Start the year off right with a vision of what you want to accomplish in 2023. Materials provided but bring images and quotes to include; registration required; for teens and adults. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

Especially for Parents

20, Explora Adult Night: “Chain

Reaction,” 6-9pm. An adult-only evening featuring theme-related activities from performances and guest lectures to installations to hands-on experiments, 18+. Free for members/$10, Explora, 1801 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/programs/adult-night.

For Teachers

4, Open Table Discussion, 3-5pm. A discussion about challenging behaviors in the classroom for early childhood teachers; discuss for an hour, then gather materials to bring back to your classroom; two-hour PD certificate; paige@unm.edu to sign up or with questions. Free, WEmagination Education Center, 4010 Copper NE, 250-7557, we.unm.edu.

12, Color-licious Teacher Workshop,

noon-2pm. Combining colors can yield surprising results. Learn to use chromatography to separate colors and find the hidden colors in everyday objects such as markers and coated candies in this virtual workshop; two CEU credits. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events. 14, Play Workshop, 10am-noon, Early childhood educators and adult family members can experience the benefits of play; all learn best while playing. Included is time to explore open-ended, recycled materials in the warehouse, and take some back to the children you play with. Free, WEmagination Educational Center, 4010 Copper NE, 250-7557, we.unm.edu.

22, Creative Coding II Teachers’

Workshop, 10am-noon. Teachers of grades 3-8 learn to use simple, common materials with micro:bit microcontrollers in creative ways; for those who have taken Creative Coding I or have some experience with micro:bits. Free, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us, forms.gle/zObiELNuHVxsXKus7.

26, Family Series: Easy, Creative &

Low Cost FUN (Virtual), 10-11am. This zoom session introduces one of 72 "recipes" that UNM's College of Education & Human Sciences staff have put together using only materials that might be found at home; bring kids and explore; reserve a spot at paige@unm.edu. Free, WEmagination Education Center, 4010 Copper NE, 2507557, we.unm.edu.

26, Floaters and Sinkers Teachers

Workshop, 2-4pm. Modify materials to make them float or sink, and design a foil boat that will carry cargo in this virtual workshop; two CEU credits. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.

Also of Interest

2-6, 9-13, 16-20, 23-27, 30-31, Pre-

School Open Gym, 11:45am-12:30pm. For ages 5 and under. $5 if not enrolled, SAGA Gymnastics, 3400 Candelaria, NE, 884-6949, sagagym.com.

13, Toughest Monster Truck Tour,

7:30pm. Featuring larger obstacles than can usually be seen at other indoor events with oversized dirt jumps with old-school crush cars on an all-dirt track plus the Freestyle Motocross team. $30, Rio Rancho Events Center, 3001 Civic Cir, Rio Rancho, toughestmonstertrucks.com. The Children’s Hour provides weekly educational and entertaining public radio programing and podcasts for listeners of all ages, created by and for kids and families, ChildrensHour.org, 89.9 fm KUNM.

February

Arts &Crafts

4, 11, 18, 25, Family Art Workshops,

1-2:30pm. All ages enjoy projects with a variety of art mediums, all materials supplied; child and grown-up friendly. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov.

Classes & Workshops

5, 12, 19, 26, Meditation for Kids, In

Person, 10-11:30am. In this fun class, children build inner strength and confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching and activities

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

to increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-10, masks required. By donation, Kadampa Meditation Center NM, 142 Monroe NE, 292-5293, meditationinnewmexico.org/calendar.

Cultural Centers & Museums

1, Free First Wednesday ABQ Muse-

um, 9am-5pm. General admission is free this day. 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 2437255, holdmyticket.com.

5, 12, 19, 26, Free Sunday Mornings

at ABQ Museum, 9am-1pm, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov. 6, 13, 20, 27, Toddler Time, 9-10am. Explora opens an hour early for caregivers and toddlers to enjoy early childhood exhibit areas, story-time and a music jam. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

16, Third Thursday: From the

Archives, 5-8:30pm. A digital archivist and staff of KNME’s “¡Colores!” will discuss the role of archives; visitors can listen with music from The Chachalacas, create a work of art inspired by the exhibit and do yoga. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov. Visual Arts Museum: Free for ages 16 and under and First Sunday for NM Residents, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org.

Dance

4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26, Cultural

Dance Program, noon, Sats & Suns. Pueblo communities celebrate seasonal cycles through prayer, song and dance. These dances connect ancestors, community, and traditions while honoring gifts from the Creator. Included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW. 843-7270, indianpueblo.org. 17-18, “Dracula, A Love Story,” 7pm. Bram Stoker’s novel is brought to the stage with Festival Ballet ABQ. “Dracula meets Lestat” is a dramatic production with powerful choreography, classical music, eerie effects. $11-$49, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 2969465, festivalballetaqb.org.

Exhibits

1-28, “Roving with Perseverance,”

9am-5pm. This exhibit is one of only a few places across the nation to host fullscale replicas of the Mars rover Perseverance and the helicopter Ingenuity. Also find information and images from this mission. Included with admission, NM Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2840, visitalbuquerque.org/event/roving-with-perseverance/51899/.

Library Events

the Dogs, Story Times, Crafts,

Movies and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com. 1, Valentines Cross Stitch, 4-5pm. This is a beginners cross-stitching program for ages 10+. Supplies are limited, registration required. Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache NE, 291-6264, abqlibrary.org. 2, Groundhog Day Adventures, 10:3011:30am. Celebrate Groundhog Day and learn about shadows. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 2916295, abqlibrary.org. 4, Weather Vanes, 4:30-5:30pm. In celebration of Weather Person's Day, make a weather vane and anemometers; all materials provided; ages 9-18. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8081 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary.org.

9, Squirrels: Our Animal Neighbors,

3:30-4:30pm. Like all animals, squirrels need food, water and shelter to survive in a habitat, but we learn through this lesson that the squirrel is especially resourceful. Free, San Pedro Library, 5600 Trumball SE, 256-2067, abqlibrary.org.

11, Picture Book Birthday Party,

11am-noon. It’s picture book author Mo Willems’ birthday: celebrate with stories and enjoying crafts and birthday treats; all materials provided, registration required, ages 3-6. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

23, The Mystery of Monster Bug’s

Shadow, 3:30-4:30pm. Children intuitively know that there is a relationship between light and shadows, but don’t fully comprehend it. Shadows make interesting subjects in many children’s books, but are often a source of fear and misunderstanding for young audiences. This hands-on exploration of light and shadows will enlighten children. Free, South Valley Library, 3904 Isleta SW, 877-5170, abqlibrary.org. 25, Sound Sleuths, 11am-noon. Children may start off as noisemakers, but they quickly progress to sound sleuths who can listen to and describe all of the things they see, feel and hear vibrating. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org. Flying Orbs, various times, dates, age groups and library locations. Learn how to suspend a metallic orb in midair with only the power of negative static charge. Free, abqlibrary.org.

Music

11, Concerts @ the Library: Sandia Prep’s Performing Arts Students In

Concert, 3-4pm. Sandia Prep’s choral, jazz, guitar, dance and piano students will perform a variety of music ranging from Broadway show tunes to classical and popular selections. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8801 Central NW, 7684320, abqlibrary.org.

School Break Camps

20, Presidents Day Camp, Nuclear History Museum, “Voyage to the

Deep,” K-3, 7:30am-5:30pm, (free before- and after-care 7:30-8:30am & 3:30-5:30pm). Students grades K-3 can enjoy an imaginative exploration of the underwater world. Volcanoes, tentacled creatures, shipwrecks. $75/$70 members, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

20, Presidents Day Camp, Nuclear History Museum, “Heroes from

Olympus,” Grades 4-6, 7:30am5:30pm, (free before- and after-care 7:308:30am & 3:30-5:30pm). Students grades 4-6 can discover the inspiration for sea monsters, harness the power of lightning and design a labyrinth in the camp classroom. $75/$70 members, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

Science & Nature

3, First Friday Fractals, 6 & 7pm. An award-winning full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature and zooms through complex mathematical fractals. The show features original music and is educational and entertaining; ages 3+, $5/ages 312/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, nmnaturalhistory.org/events/firstfriday-fractals, 841-2800. 3, Fractals Rock!, 8 & 9pm. An awardwinning full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature with less talk and more rock. They include more 3D fractal zooms (which can make some people motion sick) and very little explanation; ages 3+, $5 ages 3-12/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org/events/first-fridayfractals.

4 & 5, 11 & 12, 18 & 19, 25 & 26, Saturday & Sunday Guided Bird Walks,

8:30-10am. Join a volunteer naturalist and fellow birders for a guided walk; limited to 12, please register. $3 parking/day use fee, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

11, Rocket Launch & HP Monitoring,

9am. Low and high power launches for all ages, Level 1 High Power Mentoring, ages 12-17. There are no restroom facilities or water available at the site. Free, ABQ Rocket Society Rio Rancho Launch site, arsabq.org/meetings.htm, tripoli.org/tmp.

18, Mountain Hiking Adventures for

All Ages, 9:30am. Enjoy the outdoors and history. Departure from Piedra Lisa Trailhead (N of La Luz); destination: Waterfall (3.5 miles roundtrip) and Movie Trail. Bring trinkets for exchange in the geocache, “Lonely are the Brave.” Free, RSVP sdg@nmsciencefoundation.org or text 609-9609. 18, STEAM Day, 10am-3pm. A day of family fun with interactive STEAM activities including a table by Explora. Included with admission, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

Storytelling

25, Storytelling Under the Cotton-

wood, 10:30am-noon. Hear wisdom tales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

Area Libraries offer various story-

telling events regularly. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com.

Animal Tales with the BioPark.

Enjoy the reading of an animal-related book. The BioPark will bring animals and biofacts that represent the animals in the story for kids to meet. Free, various libraries, dates and times, abqlibrary.org.

Just for Teens

1, Valentines Cross Stitch, 4-5pm. A beginners cross-stitching program; supplies are limited; Ages 10+ (needles will be used), registration required. Free, Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache NE, 291-6264, abqlibrary.org. 6, Mineral Escape Room, 4-5pm. While out mining for diamonds, you find yourself trapped in an abandoned cave. Get yourself and others out before nightfall or you and your team may not survive; ages 13-18; Registration is required online or by phone and limited to eight. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5136, abqlibrary.org.

Also of Interest

1-3, 6-10, 13-17, 20-24, 27-28, Pre-

School Open Gym, 11:45am-12:30pm. For ages 5 and under. $5 if not enrolled, SAGA Gymnastics, 3400 Candelaria NE, 884-6949, sagagym.com.

For Teachers

9, Acids and Bases Teachers Work-

shop, noon-2pm. Experiment with unlikely acid-base indicators – found at home in this virtual workshop; two CEU credits. Free with registration: explora.us/events. Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

13-17, Discover STEAM Week at National Museum of Nuclear Science

& History. An annual celebration of all things STEAM. The museum hosts students grades 1-8 for hands-on activities and engaging field trips. These field trips include free bussing and admission for accepted groups thanks to donor support. Apply by contacting lguida@nuclearmuseum.org, nuclearmuseum.org/educate/for-teachers/steam-week.

23, Color-licious Teacher Workshop,

2-4pm. Combining colors can yield surprising results. Learn to use chromatography to separate colors and find the hidden colors in everyday objects such as markers and coated candies in this virtual workshop; 2 CEU credits. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.

Santa Fe Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but times, places & dates of events can change, so be sure to call ahead. Events listed are child- and teen- appropriate to the best of our knowledge. As families have different ideas of “age appropriatbe,” we encourage you to confirm that any activity you attend is appropriate for your child. To have your events listed free in our next calendar, fill out our calendar form at newmexicokids.com or send date, time, place, cost, description of activity, sponsoring organization and contact phone to kids@newmexicokids.com. The deadline is Feb. 15 for listings in March/April calendar. Listings are not guaranteed because of space limits. Phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.

December Highlights

Arts & Crafts

16, 23, 30, Fine Art Fridays, 2-4pm. Exploration into the arts with guest facilitators and hands-on activities that encourage children to explore their creativity and to be artistic. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Cultural Centers & Museums

14, 21, 28, Wee Wednesdays, 10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story-time and play. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 21, Let’s Take a Look, noon-2pm. The staff will be in the lobby to look at your treasures. Bring a weaving, ceramic, piece of jewelry or something else to this in-person meeting with the curator of ethnology. Free, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, 710 Camino Lejo, 476-1272, miaclab.org. 22, 29, Thursdays Are Yours, 4-6pm. Visitors enjoy immersive exhibits for free, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Dance

17-18, “The Nutcracker,” 2pm, Sat; 5pm, Sun. Aspen Santa Fe Ballet presents this iconic rendition — both uplifting and humorous — back after a two-year hiatus. Brimming with charm, lavish sets and costumes, and with a cast of more than 70 performers, this production is family-friendly. Lensic Performing Arts Center, 211 W. San Francisco, 984-8759, lensic.org.

Fairs & Festivals

14, Young Native Artists Winter

Show & Sale, 10am-4pm. Begin collecting art, jewelry, pottery and more from the next generation of Native American artists and craftspeople. Free, NM History Museum, 113 Lincoln, 476-5200, nmhistorymuseum.org. 18, Chanukah on the Plaza, 3-5pm. First light of Chanukah, Grand Gelt Drop with the SF Fire Department, live music with Klezmorados, Odd-Labs Fire Dancers, lighting of the Giant Chile Menorah, latkes, donuts, gelt and hot chocolate. Please RSVP. Santa Fe Plaza, 100 Old Santa Fe Trail, santafejcc.com/templates/articlecco_cdo /aid/5637005/jewish/Chanukah-on-thePlaza-2022.htm. 31, New Year’s Eve on the Plaza, 8pm-1am. Live music by Sol Fire and Nosotros, piñon bonfires, food trucks and fireworks at midnight. Free, Santa Fe Plaza, santafe.com/new-years-eve-onthe-plaza.

Library Events

14, Youth Chess Club, 5:45pm. Play, practice and have fun. In person at the library, virtually at sites.google.com/site/childchesssantefe. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 9556780, santafelibrary.org. 15, Yoga and Movement for Kids, 10:3oam. Join for children’s yoga, joyful movement and kinesthetic creativity; children of all ages have fun getting bodies moving. All children must be accompanied by an adult, mats provided but if you have one, bring it. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafelibrary.org. 16, Read Runners Book Club, 3:45pm. A book club for 9-12 year-olds, run by 912 year-olds, register online. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4863, santafelibrary.org.

17, Parent and Tot Creative Move-

ment, 10am. Preschool age children use fun, music and stories to exercise their minds and bodies in a relaxed environment with a chosen adult. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.

Music

14, Kids Sing Along with Queen Bee

Music Association, 3:15-4pm. Early childhood literacy skills are explored through songs and play alongs; preschool children actively participate in every session. Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820 santafelibrary.org. 18, “Home for the Holidays,” 5pm. A benefit concert with Felix “Gato” Peralta & Lara Manzaneres, Andrea Michelle, Mariachi Calor, Carlos Medina, Balle Ilusion & Bill Hearne and Friends; all ages. Free, St Francis Auditorium at the NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org. 20-21, Holiday Flamenco, 7pm. A flamenco extravaganza based in part on Mina Fajardo’s holiday album “Christmas Hits Melody.” $20 seniors & students/$25 general admission, Teatro Paraguas, 3205 Calle Marie, 424-1601, theatresantafe.org. 28, Family Bach Exploration, 10-11am. Hear the music of J.S. Bach and discover why his is still celebrated. Free, Santa Fe Pro Musica, 107 W. Palace, 988-4640, newmexico.org/event/free-family-bachexploration/14831.

School Break Camps

19-22, 27-29, Winter Break Camps, Genoveva Chavez Community Cen-

ter, 7:30am-5:30pm. This camp is for children 6-12 (proof of age required). Please provide a full sack lunch and snack. Activities are group activities and include sports, games and arts and crafts $40-$15/per day based on sliding scale, 3221 Rodeo, 955-4005, chavezcenter.com/youth-programs.

19-23, Santa Fe Children’s Museum

Camp, “Winter Wizards.” 9am3:30pm. Education through art, science and play, the program includes STEAM activities lead by experienced museum educators and community guests; scholarships available. $350/per child per week, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

19-23 & 26-30, Wisefool Winter Break Camp, Kids Circus Classes.

Two week-long circus camps that are for youth ages 7-12 with any level of experience. Kids can learn circus skills in a fun and supportive environment. $325/week, Wisefool, 11131 Siler, Suite B, 992-2588, wisefoolnewmexico.org.

26-30, Santa Fe Children’s Museum

Camp, “Arctic Animal Adventure.” 9am-3:30pm. Education through art, science and play, the program includes STEAM activities lead by experienced museum educators and community guests; scholarships available. $350/per child per week, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Madison, 8

Science & Nature

16, Community Day at the Garden,

10am-4pm. Free admission to the Garden for NM residents and students with ID. Free. Family activities 1-4pm, including natural ornament making and reading of “Night Tree,” by Eve Bunting. Stay after for Holiday Stroll. Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, SF, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org. 17, Winter Bird Walk December, 1011:30am. Beginner bird watching with hands-on activities including microscopes, bird artifacts, crafts. Kids, families are welcome to make pine cone bird feeders to take home; binoculars available to borrow; all ages. Free under age 12/$5 ages 13-17/$8 members/$10 adults, Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org. 17, 24, 31, Meet Cornelius the Snake, 1pm. The beloved corn snake gets to socialize with children during this informal meet and greet. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 17, 24, 31, Science Saturday, 2-4pm. Science fun for all ages with exciting experiments and activities. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 22, 29, Seeds & Sprouts, 10:30-11:30am. Kids explore nature: from fun in the backyard to in-house programming, children learn about seasonal growing cycles and other gardening-related practices. Included with admission/free 17 and under 4-6pm, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 29, Bug Bash, 4:30-5:30pm. Join Wade Harrell from Harrell Bug Museum to learn about and have fun with crawling creatures. Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Stage

15-18, “A Year with Frog and Toad,”

7:30pm, Thus-Sats; 2pm, Sats & Suns. Based on Arnold Lobel’s books, this whimsical holiday show that follows two friends through four fun-filled seasons; a heartwarming classic for the whole family. $30, Santa Fe Playhouse, 142 De Vargas, 988-4262, santafeplayhouse.org.

Just for Teens

14, Teen Lounge, 1:30-3:30pm. A safe space for teens to decompress after school with art supplies, homework tables, laptops & Wi-Fi, board games, tea & snacks. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4863 santafelibrary.org.

Also of Interest

16, Winter Glow Holiday Stroll on

Museum Hill, 4-7pm. Luminarias, ornaments, crafts, hot cocoa and caroling at Museum of International Folk Art, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture and Santa Fe Botanical Gardens. Free, indianartsandculture.org/calendar. 17, 24, 31 , Saturday Farmers Market,

Santa Fe Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

8am-1pm. Shop fresh produce, crafts and body care products. Free, Santa Fe Railyard Market Pavilion, 1607 Paseo De Peralta, 983-7726, railyardsantafe.com. 21, Make Music Winter, 2-4pm. Gather around the fire pit on The Candyman porch for this family-friendly sing-along event with the Candyman’s piano and vocal teacher who will lead a singing circle of Christmas carols. Participants will receive a free rhythm shaker and enjoy hot cocoa, apple cider and snacks. Free,The Candyman Porch, 851 St. Michael’s, 983-5906, candymansf.com/make-music-winter. 24, Santa Fe Farolito Walk, 6-11pm. A celebrated holiday tradition with thousands of flickering candles in paper bags lining streets and walls on Christmas Eve. Free, Canyon Road, santafe.com/santafe-farolito-walk-on-canyon-road.

January

Arts & Crafts

3, 10, 17, 24, 31, After School Art at

the Main Library, 3:30-4:30pm. Preschool children practice creative skills at the library with themed art sessions. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 9556837, santafelibrary.org. 6, 13, 20,27, Fine Art Fridays, 2-4pm. Exploration into the arts with guest facilitators and hands-on activities that encourage children to explore their creativity. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

8, Georgia Okeeffe Family Fun Day:

New Year, New Me!, 10am. Join for a day full of exploring personal identity through art-making, interactive ingallery activities and story time. Families can also enjoy special access to the new exhibit, “Georgia O’Keeffe: Making a Life.” Free, Georgia O’Keefe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org. 20, Lunar New Year Craft, 2pm. Celebrate with a craft session designed by Miss Susan. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2828, santafelibrary.org.

27, Friday Afternoon Art: Oil Pastel

and Watercolor, 2pm. Enjoy an afternoon of art with materials and basic instruction provided. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2828, santafelibrary.org.

Cultural Centers & Museums

1, NM Residents Free First Sunday at Museum of International Folk Art,

10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under & foundation members are always free, 706 Camino Lejo, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.

1, NM Residents Free First Sunday at

NM History Museum, 10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under, NM foster parents and foster children as well as foundation members are always free, 113 Lincoln, 4765200, nmhistorymuseum.org.

1, NM Residents Free First Sunday at

NM Museum of Art, 10am-5pm. NM foster parents and children; ages 16 and under always free, 107 W Palace, 4765072, nmartmuseum.org.

4, 11, 18, 25, Wee Wednesdays,

10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story time and play. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 5, 12, 19, 26, Thursdays Are Yours, 46pm. Visitors enjoy immersive exhibits for free, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. NM Dept of Cultural Affairs has links with information about NM museums, historic sites and other institutions. The “Visit Virtually” section includes links to NM museums, cultural centers and libraries, newmexicoculture.org.

Exhibits

1-31, “Georgia O’Keeffe: Making a

Life.” This exhibit explores the artist’s identity as a “maker” and showcases art and objects including books, furniture, clothing and accessories. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.

Library Events

Area Libraries offer activities like Lego Club, Book Groups, Read to the Dogs, Game Time, Chess, AfterSchool Clubs, Story Time, Movies

and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: santafelibrary.org, vglibrary.org. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Wags and Words, 67pm. Children can practice their reading skills by sharing a story with a furry friend; for early school age children; call during library hours or email to sign up: mkatencio@santafenm.gov. Dogs are from the SF Animal Shelter Pet Outreach Program. Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafelibrary.org.

4, 11, 18, 25, Youth Chess Club,

5:45pm. Play, practice and have fun. In person at the library, virtually at sites.google.com/site/childchesssantefe. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 9556780, santafelibrary.org.

5, 12, 19, 26, Yoga and Movement for

Kids, 10:3oam. Join for children’s yoga, joyful movement and kinesthetic creativity; children of all ages have fun getting bodies moving; must be accompanied by an adult, mats provided but bring one if you have one. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafelibrary.org. 7, Read to a Pup! 11:30am. Children can practice reading skills by sharing a story with a local therapy dog; for early school age children. Free, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2830, santafelibrary.org.

7, 21, Parent and Tot Creative Move-

ment, 10am. Preschool-age children can use music and stories to exercise their minds and bodies in a relaxed environment with a chosen adult. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.

14, Baby and Toddler Play Hour,

10:30 am. Free, unstructured play where children can explore and interact with other children and new educational toys. Learn and make social connections together with your toddler. Free, 145 Main Library, Washington, 955-6781, santafelibrary.org.

20, Family Movie Night,“Lyle Lyle,

Crocodile,” PG, 7pm. Watch the movie on a big screen with popcorn and juice provided. Free, Vista Grande Public Library, 14 Avenida Torreon, 466-7323, vglibrary.org.

22, Community Day at the Garden,

10am-4pm. Family activities including natural ornament making and readings of “Night Tree.” Stay after for the Holiday Stroll. Free, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

26, ‘90s Movie Night, “The Mighty

Ducks,” [PG], 5:30pm. Dress up ‘90s style and get snacks while watching the movie. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4863, santafelibrary.org.

Music

4, 11, 18, 25, Kids Sing Along with

Queen Bee Music Association, 3:154pm. Early childhood literacy skills are explored through songs and play alongs; pre-school children actively participate in every session. Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.

Open Houses

17, Santa Fe Waldorf Visitor Morn-

ing Tours, 9:30-10:30am. Discover a school where children will thrive in a safe, supportive and engaging environment; preschool-highschool. Free, Santa Fe Waldorf, 26 Puesta Del Sol, 467-6431, santafewaldorf.org/visit.

School Break Camps

3, Winter Break Camps, Genoveva

Chavez Community Center, 7:30am5:30pm. This camp is for children 6-12 (proof of age required). Please provide a full sack lunch and snack. Activities are group activities and include sports, games and arts and crafts $40-$15/per day based on sliding scale, 3221 Rodeo, 9554005, chavezcenter.com/youth-programs.

Science & Nature

5, 12, 19, 26, Seeds & Sprouts, 10:3011:30am. Kids explore nature: from fun in the backyard to in-house programming, children learn about seasonal growing cycles and other gardening-related practices. Included with admission/free 17 and under 4-6pm, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

7, 14, 21, 28, Meet Cornelius the

Snake, 1pm. The beloved corn snake gets to socialize with children during this informal meet and greet. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 7, 14, 21, 28, Science Saturday, 24pm. Science fun for all ages with experiments and activities. Included w/admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

22, Community Day at the Garden,

10am-4pm. Free admission to the Garden for NM residents and students with ID. Free, Celebrate Lunar New Year and enjoy a stroll through the winter garden. Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, SF, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

Storytelling

5, Fun with Firefighters, 1-2pm. The Museum partners with the SF Fire Department to bring a story time where firefighters read some of their favorite books and everyone can go outside to see the firetruck. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

5, 12, 19, 26, Pajama Story Time,

6:30pm. A social story time where parents can chat with experts, new theme each week, custom grab-and-go kits for attendees; light snacks provided. Spanish speaking facilitators available in partnership with SF Children’s Museum. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santachildrenslibrary.org.

28, Santa Fe Farmer’s Market Insti-

tute Story Time, 11:30am. Be reminded of warmer days and outside fun at the farmer’s market with this fun and educational story time and craft. For preschool and school age children. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2830, santafelibrary.org. Bilingual Books and Babies, various dates, times and libraries. Books, songs and finger games for children ages 6 mo2 years. Free, santafelibrary.org. Story Time and Craft, various dates, times and libraries. Enjoy stories and a crafts with different themes. Free, santafelibrary.org.

Also of Interest

Santa Fe Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

tains children and helps develop motor skills. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 28, SouperBowl XXVII, noon. A friendly competition and fundraiser with samples. $10 children $10/$25/$35, Santa Fe Convention Center, 201 West Marcy, events.idonate.com/souperbowlxxvii. New Mexico Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market.

Ongoing, Railyard Artisans Market,

10am-3pm, Suns. This market represents a wide array of NM artists and craftspeople. Free, Santa Fe Farmers’ Market Pavillion, santafefarmersmarket.com/railyard-artisan-market. Ongoing, Saturday Farmers’ Market, 8am-1pm, Sats. Santa Fe Farmers Market at the Railyard with veggies, meats, crafts and body care products among many others. Free, Railyards, 1607 Paseo de Peralta, 983-4098, santafefarmersmarket.com

February

Arts & Crafts

4, Valentine Card Workshop, 3pm. Make a creative Valentine for someone you love. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafelibrary.org. 7, 14, 21, 28, After School Art, 3:304:30pm. Preschool children practice creative skills at the library with themed art sessions. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafelibrary.org.

10, Friday Afternoon Art: Collage

Card, 2pm. Make a card for someone you love using collage techniques; materials provided. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2828, santafelibrary.org.

17, Friday Afternoon Art: African

American Crafts, 2pm. Make traditional African American crafts for African American History Month; materials provided. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2828, santafelibrary.org.

Cultural Centers & Museums

1, Play Pichenotte! 4-6pm. A fun, diskflicking game that entertains children of all ages and helps with developing motor skills. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

1, 8, 15, 22, Wee Wednesdays,

10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story-time and play. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

5, NM Residents Free First Sunday at

NM History Museum, 10am-5pm. Ages 16 & under, NM foster parents & children & foundation members always free, 113 Lincoln, 476-5200, nmhistorymuseum.org.

5, NM Residents Free First Sunday at Museum of International Folk Art,

10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under and foundation members always free, 706 Camino Lejo, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.

5, NM Residents Free First Sunday at

NM Museum of Art, 10am-5pm. NM foster parents and children, ages 16 and under always free, 107 W Palace, 4765072, nmartmuseum.org.

Exhibits

1-28, “Georgia O’Keeffe: Making a Life.” This exhibit explores the artist’s identity as a “maker” and showcases art and objects including books, furniture, clothing and accessories. Included with admission, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.

Library Events

Area Libraries offer activities like Lego Club, Book Groups, Read to the Dogs, Game Time, Chess, AfterSchool Clubs, Story Time, Movies

and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: santafelibrary.org, vglibrary.org. 1, 8, 15, 22, Youth Chess Club, 5:45pm. Play, practice and have fun. In person at the library, virtually at sites.google.com/site/childchesssantefe. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 9556780, santafelibrary.org.

2, 9, 16, 23, Yoga and Movement for

Kids, 10:3oam. Join for children’s yoga, joyful movement and kinesthetic creativity; children of all ages have fun getting bodies moving. All children must be accompanied by an adult, mats provided but if you have one, bring it. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafelibrary.org. 4, Read to a Pup!, 11:30am. Children can practice reading skills by sharing a story with a local therapy dog; for early school age children. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2830, santafelibrary.org .

4, 18, Parent and Tot Creative Move-

ment, 10am. Preschool aged children use fun, music and stories to exercise their minds and bodies in a relaxed environment with a chosen adult. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org. 7, 14, 21, 28, Wags and Words, 6-7pm. Children can practice their reading skills by sharing a story with a furry friend; for early school age children; call during library hours or email to sign up: mkatencio@santafenm.gov. Dogs are from the SF Animal Shelter Pet Outreach Program. Main Library, 145 Washington, 9556837, santafelibrary.org. 11, Baby Toddler Play Hour, 10:30am. Free, unstructured play where children can explore and interact with other children and new educational toys. Learn and make social connections together with your toddler. Free, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafelibrary.org.

Music

1, 8, 15, 22, Kids Sing Along with

Queen Bee Music Association, 3:154pm. Early childhood literacy skills are explored through songs and play alongs; pre-school children actively participate in every session. Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820 santafelibrary.org.

Open Houses

14, Santa Fe Waldorf Visitor Morn-

ing Tours, 9:30-10:30am. Discover a school where children will thrive in a safe, supportive and engaging environment; preschool-highschool. Free, Santa Fe Waldorf, 26 Puesta Del Sol, 467-6431, santafewaldorf.org/visit.

Science & Nature

2, 9, 16, 23 , Seeds & Sprouts, 10:3011:30am. Kids explore nature: from fun in the backyard to in-house programming, children learn about seasonal growing cycles and other gardening-related practices. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

4, 11, 18, 25, Meet Cornelius the

Snake, 1pm. The beloved corn snake gets to socialize with children during this informal meet and greet. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. 4, 11, 18, 25, Science Saturday, 2-4pm. Science fun for all ages with exciting experiments and activities. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

19, Community Day at the Garden,

10am-4pm. Free admission to the Garden for NM residents and students with ID. Watch, learn about, count and celebrate birds at our Great Backyard Bird Count. Free, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

Storytelling

2, 9, 16, 23, Pajama Story Time,

6:30pm. A social story time where parents can chat with experts, new theme each week, custom grab-and-go kits for attendees; light snacks provided. Spanish speaking facilitators available in partnership with SF Children’s Museum. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santachildrenslibrary.org. 5, Fun with Firefighters, 1-2pm. The Museum partners with the SF Fire Department to bring a story time where firefighters read some of their favorite books and everyone can go outside to see the firetruck. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

7, 15, Animal Humane Safety and

Care Story Time, 10:30am. Safety around animals is important. Learn some lessons for children in animal safety; for preschool age children. Free, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2828, santafelibrary.org.

25, Santa Fe Farmer’s Market Insti-

tute Story Time, 11:30am. Be reminded of warmer days and outside fun at the farmer’s market with this fun and educational story time and craft. For preschool and school age children. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2830, santafelibrary.org. Bilingual Books and Babies, various dates, times and libraries. Books, songs and finger games for children ages 6 months-2 years. Free, santafelibrary.org. Story Time and Craft, various dates, times, libraries. Enjoy stories & crafts w/ different themes. Free, santafelibrary.org.

Also of Interest

New Mexico Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market.

Ongoing, Railyard Artisans Market,

10am-3pm, Suns. This market represents a wide array of NM artists and craftspeople. Free, Santa Fe Farmers’ Market Pavillion, santafefarmersmarket.com/railyard-artisan-market. Ongoing, Saturday Farmers’ Market, 8am-1pm, Sats. Santa Fe Farmers Market at the Railyard with veggies, meats, crafts and body care products among many others. Free, Railyards, 1607 Paseo de Peralta, 983-4098, santafefarmersmarket.com.

Let’s Read Let’s Read Let’s Read

These book reviews were written by Christine Laffler’s 4th grade students at Manzano Day school.

The Hair Book

Author: LaTonya Yvette Illustrator: Amanda Jane Jones Ages: Baby-3 years This is a board book about different types of hair. It is easy to read and has good and colorful illustrations. It is about how all hair is cool in its

own way. “Covered hair, Bun Hair, Party Hair…No matter your hair— YOU are welcome anywhere!” the book says. I think it is a good book because it teaches people to respect the differences in our world!

By George M., 9

Misty the Cloud: Friends Through Rain or Shine

Author: Dylan Dreyer with Alan Katz Illustrator: Rosie Butcher Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers Age: 3-7 years If you love rainbows, this is the book for you. This is a great book

Albuquerque

because it shows us that if you are different from someone else, you can still be friends. If you have a sibling or friend and you don't agree all the time, you should read this book because it shows us how we can compromise. We can combine games and ideas and still be friends!

By Kenzie G., 10

A Beginner’s Guide to Being Human

Author: Matt Forrest Esenwine Illustrator: Andre Ceolin Publisher: Beaming Books Ages: 6-10 years This is a great book because it teaches about differences in people.

It is great because a lot of kids get bullied or made fun of because of their differences. This book teaches kids to be proud of themselves. I have dyslexia and this book makes me feel like I am very important!

By Jaxson M., 10

Will Someone Play Bluey?

Author: Eileen Ivers Publisher: Musical Bridge Publishing Ages: 4-10 years This is a great book that shows we need to spread kindness no matter what we look like. This is a picture book that is perfect for early learners. The author is a real fiddler and I think this book is cool because it has Eileen’s real blue violin as the main character. This book shows that it's OK to be different. The illustrations are filled with color and magic. I enjoyed this book and I hope you do, too.

By Mysha A., 10

National Geographic Kids Dinosaur Atlas

Author: National Geographic Illustrator: Franco Tempesta Publisher: National Geographic Books Ages: 7-10 years This book is all about dinosaurs. It has big colorful maps that show where dinosaurs lived. The book teaches you how to say the name of different dinosaurs. It shows you

the fossils that have been discovered from those times. It explains what all the dinosaurs looked like and how big they were. The book also shows what the dinosaurs ate and explains their skin types. I liked when it showed the different claws! The book is really long and it takes a while to read. Overall, the book was really cool because I really like dinosaurs!

By Amadeo M., 10

Albuquerque

SpringSession January9-May6

RegisterHere!

RegistrationisOngoing!

Ages2-102!

Contemporary,Ballet,Mixed Ability,andMORE! Allclassesofferedonasliding scale/unlimited,noncompetitive scholarship.

BigDancerLittleDancer Breakfast March4th,2023 9am-1pm

Visit KeshetArts.org orcall 505.224.9808

The Young Scientist

By AILEEN O’CATHERINE

Coral reefs are often called the rainforests of the sea because they are teeming with a diversity of life forms. Think of them as an ocean habitat. Scientists estimate about 25 percent of marine species live in or around coral reefs, making them important placeholders for marine biodiversity. There are so many life forms in coral reefs that scientists have not identified them all, discovering new species every year. Coral reefs are like nurseries for many fish species. In the movie “Finding Nemo,” a clownfish named Marlin searches for his lost son Nemo in their coral reef home, which is teem- A coral reef teems with fish. Photo by NOAA. ing with other fish and marine creatures.

Lots of fish can be found in coral reefs including cuttlefish, lionfish, sharks, pufferfish and eels. Sea animals such as sponges, anemones, starfish, sea cucumbers, snails and clams attach themselves to coral reefs. Sea plants found in coral reefs include seaweed, sea grasses and algae.

Coral reefs are most often associated with warm, shallow waters, but there are deep sea coral reefs as well. Because coral reefs are hard, you might think they are made of rocks. Coral reefs are made up of live organisms that are small animals called polyps. The polyps live on the outside of the reef, and as they die, they become hard. The new polyps grow on top of the hard reef, which makes it grow. Polyps eat small animals called plankton and an algae called zooxanthellae (zoo-zan-thelay). The algae live inside the hard coral skeletons that are made of calcium carbonate (limestone or chalk). In return for that protection, the algae provide their host with food produced through photosynthesis. The sunlight feeds the algae, the algae feed the polyps and the polyps become coral reefs.

This symbiotic relationship (a relationship where each cooperates with the other) depends on the temperature of the surrounding water. When the temperature of the water becomes too warm for the algae, the reef becomes white, something called coral bleaching. The living algae gives coral its color. Reefs can recover if the water becomes cooler, so maintaining the right water temperature is key as we face the challenges of global warming. Warmer ocean water is also more acidic than normal, which makes it harder for corals to build their exoskeletons or hard forms. Ocean warming results from higher levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the water. The ocean absorbs CO2, which also makes the water more acidic, making it harder for the coral to grow. Deep sea corals live in the deep cooler parts of the ocean. Since zooxanthellae algae does not live in these depths, deep sea corals eat plankton and other organic matter.

Most coral reefs are found in southeast Asia and near Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is off the coast of Australia’s Queensland and is so large it can be seen from outer space. Barrier reefs are miles away from a shoreline, but fringe reefs can be attached to the shore or near a lagoon. Another kind of reef is called an atoll. This reef is a ring of coral that surrounds a lagoon and starts out as a fringe reef around a volcanic island. Most coral reefs are 5,000 to 10,000 years old. Their fossilized ancestors date back hundreds of millions of years.

“Winter” By MYLES MELLOR for ages 8-15

Across 1. He's white and often has a pipe and a carrot for a nose 5. Drink holder 7. Have some burgers 8. Fireworks 9. Make a ___! 11. You can get money from it 13. Women's soccer star ___ Hamm 16. Frozen water 17. Pickup ___ 18. Getting on in years 20. Like an open fire 23. They take you up and down a mountain 25. Pull along 26. Alternative word 27. Where you can see things you might want for Christmas (2 words)

Down 1. You can ride on it over the snow and get pulled by dogs 2. Away from home 3. White candy that is soft and spongy 4. These kids get presents from Santa (opposite of naughty) 5. These nuts get roasted in winter 6. Send a letter 10. ___ gotta be me! 12. They make everything brighter, Christmas ____ 14. Where it's ___ 15. They travel on snow down the mountains 19. English princess, Lady ___ 21. Sound people make when they are surprised and happy 22. Couple 24. Enjoyment 26. Ouch! Spanish Enrichment Academy @ANDALUCIA 87120

Give your child a chance at greater fluency and access to countless professional opportunities for their future. Children will expand their minds and enrich their lives. Immerse your children in one of the most popular languages in the US to learn today. For more information: Luz R. Bartra 505-263-0385 LaLuzSEA23@gmail.com Classes start February 2023 Saturday mornings, Spaces are limited.

Albuquerque

Corrales

Kids’ Art!

Enzo, 12

Kids’ Art!

Let’s

A page for kids’ party places, entertainers, services and supplies! “Let’s Party” ads cost $90 plus tax for each 2-inch by 2-inch space. Color is an additional $60 plus tax. To place your ad in our next issue, ad and payment are due by Feb. 15. For more information call 505-797-2708

505.293.3636

abcballoondecorating.com You will be delighted!

Let’s Draw! Let’s Draw! Let’s Draw! Let’s Draw!

Become a published artist. Create your own drawing here and mail it to New Mexico Kids!, 9100 Galaxia Way NE, Abq, NM 87111 or scan it and email it to kids@newmexico-kids.com. Some drawings will be selected to illustrate future issues! Please include your name, age and hometown.