New Mexico Kids! November December 2021 by New Mexico Kids!

Albuquerque

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

Albuquerque

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New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids!

Albuquerque

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

What’s in this issue for you! November/December 2021

Vol. 30 No. 6

REGULAR FEATURES

STORIES & SPECIAL FEATURES

NM History for Kids! pg 18

New Mexico Kids! Annual Holiday Gift Guide pg 8 Community Art Closet pg 14

Let’s Read pg 20 Calendar pg 23

Group Offers Monthly Art Supply Giveaway

Young Scientist pg 26

Evan and the Skygoats pg 16

Kids’ Crossword pg 28

Local Author Wins Award for Kids’ Book on Grieving Written After Daughter’s Passing

Let’s Draw pg 30

Directory of Schools & Academic Support Programs pg 32

Cover Story

If you would like to submit art to be considered for a New Mexico Kids! cover, please email a copy to kids@newmexico-kids.com or send a snapshot of the work to New Mexico Kids!, 9100 Galaxia Way NE, Alb. NM 87111. Don’t forget to include your phone number!

SUBSCRIPTIONS to New Mexico Kids! are $24 a year for 6 issues prepaid by credit card, check or money order.

DEADLINES for the January/February 2022 issue are Nov. 5 for Editorial, Nov. 26 for the Directory of Schools and Academic Support Programs and Dec. 1 for ads, classifieds and calendar.

Publisher: Plevin Kids Inc. Editor/Advertising: Nancy Plevin, kids@newmexico-kids.com, 505-797-2708 Distribution/Ad Sales: Josh Plevin, 505-800-3309, 505-797-2708 Calendar Editor: Francine Hopper, nmkidscal@gmail.com Proofreader: Deborah Begel, begel@windstream.net Cover Design: Pat Carr of Carr Imaging, 880-8124 Printed by The Santa Fe New Mexican with soy-based recyclable inks New Mexico Kids! is published bimonthly by Plevin Kids Inc., 9100 Galaxia Way NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111. Phone 505-797-2708. Email kids@newmexico-kids.com. Copyright 2021/2022 by Plevin Kids Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Paid advertisements are not an endorsement by New Mexico Kids! About 30,000 copies are distributed in New Mexico at about 380 locations.

November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids!

Holiday Gift Guide By KAY SNYDER Mery the Cherry Teether (birth and older) These days you can get a teether just about anywhere, but you can’t always find teethers like these by Oli & Carol – handmade in Morocco from all natural rubber and handpainted with natural pigments. They are also shaped like fruit so babies can practice “eating” healthy food while they gnaw on something cute. $14.99 at Toyopolis in Santa Fe.

Indestructibles Baby Books (birth and older) Perfect for tossing into a diaper bag for on-the-go baby entertaining, Indestructibles books are, as the name suggests, indestructible. These colorful books are rip proof and chew proof. They also can be washed, even in the dishwasher. Many different titles are available, making them great stocking stuffers. $5.95 at Toyopolis in Santa Fe. DimplStacks (6 months and older) Fat Brain Toys does it again. Not only are DimplStacks perfect for stacking (which helps build baby’s coordination and reasoning skills), they are also great for pushing and popping because these stacking toys are made from soft silicone bubbles, each with a uniquely textured pattern on top. Made from 100 percent non-toxic food-grade silicone. $20.99 at Toyopolis in Santa Fe. Spin Again (12 months and older) Spin Again uses forces of gravity to entertain toddlers (and adults too for that matter!). As baby places one of the five colorful disks on the threaded corkscrew column, they can then watch as it twirls all the way down to the reversible base. Disks come in different shapes and colors to make this even more fun – and educational – for toddlers. $29.99 at Toyopolis in Santa Fe.

Hape Tito Pull-Along (12 months and older) With his liquid-filled “shell,” Tito the turtle is ready to be pulled along by a little one who’s just learning how to walk. As he is pulled, his shell rolls, helping toddlers learn cause and effect by watching the green liquid that travels from one part of Tito’s shell to another. Made of high-quality wood. $23 at the Santa Fe Children’s Museum. Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog Fidget Friend (18 months and older) Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog Fidget Friend by Learning Resources gives tiny hands fun things to twist, turn, push and spin. This toy helps children build hand strength and fine motor skills. And who can resist that cute hedgehog face? $13.99 at learningresources.com. Animal Puzzle and Playset (2 and older) This toy by Begin Again is a puzzle and a playset in one. For each letter of the alphabet, there is an animalshaped puzzle piece. Kids can fit all the pieces together in one fun twisty puzzle or use their imagination by playing with the animals separately. $38 at the International Folk Art Museum in Santa Fe. A smaller dog family version also is available for $15. Uncle Goose Elemental Blocks (2 and older) Instead of the traditional ABC blocks, why not introduce little ones early to the periodic table of the elements? These colorful blocks by Uncle Goose each contain the atomic number, symbol and name for six different elements. They are handmade from sustainable basswood and printed with non-toxic inks. $38 at the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History in Albuquerque. continued on page 10

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW... From Birth to Elementary... and Beyond In 2019, Montessori ONE Academy opened New Mexico's first Nido, an authentic Montessori infant environment. The Nido serves infants starting at six weeks and gives families the opportunity to grow with the school from infancy through elementary. Although the school's award-winning preschool opened in 2007, it wasn't until 2015 when the Elementary Program opened and families had the opportunity to bring their child's preschool experience to the next level. The result has been universal acceptance to Albuquerque's top private middle and high schools such as Albuquerque Academy, Sandia Prep, and Bosque School.

Executive Function and Self-Regulation Executive Functioning is defined as the skills and mental processes that enable us to plan, focus attention, juggle multiple tasks successfully, and remember instructions. It often includes Self-Regulation and these two skills depend on three types of brain function: working memory, mental flexibility, and selfcontrol. Montessori ONE Academy does a masterful job of cultivating these skills in the children's everyday experiences. The result is calm, responsible, independent, and resourceful problem-solvers and leaders.

On-Site Care and Enrichment On-site Before and After Care is particularly important to working parents, as is, on-site after school activities such as gymnastics, music and physical education. Less time in the car traveling to and from activities during a busy week allows more time for families to connect at home. Montessori ONE also has enrichment programs designed to support student interests and development. From Spanish language lessons and gardening to the intergenerational program connecting children with AMARAN Senior Living residents through collaborative activities such as art, reading, and cooking.

WHY WE CHOSE MONTESSORI ONE ACADEMY By Danielle Reilly Weed When my daughters were two and four, I decided to expand my consulting business and enroll them in preschool full-time. Our family had a few basic requirements: The preschool had to provide before and after care on-site to accommodate our work schedules. It had to be geographically convenient to either home or office. It needed to have experienced teachers. Finally, the school had to be grounded in an educational philosophy. I scoured the internet for ideas and asked friends for recommendations. Of the four schools that met our criteria, one school stood hands and shoulders above the rest-- Montessori ONE Academy. From the moment I stepped into Montessori ONE, I recognized it was different from the other candidates. The facility was modern, clean, organized, and beautiful. It was quiet with only the ambient buzz of calm conversation. As I toured each classroom, I observed focused and engaged preschool children working independently or in small groups. I watched teachers, known as Guides, provide lessons on mathematics and cursive writing. The activities seemed beyond preschool capability-- reading, spelling, geography, cleaning, organizing, and collaborating. I saw children move freely about the classroom in a calm and orderly fashion, entrusted to find materials, execute "Work", and then clean up after themselves. I marveled at the courteous and helpful interactions between children of mixed ages in a single classroom. Watching these focused, happy, and peaceful children exceling academically, emotionally, and socially became a very moving-- and humbling-- moment for me. I wanted to give my children those gifts, but thought it was out of reach. I realized that I had been underestimating my own children's capabilities. I was reminded that there was so much I didn't know about early childhood development. I was also reminded that whenever we don't have the skills or expertise to get a job done ourselves, we hire professionals. So, we "hired" the professionals at Montessori ONE Academy and have never looked back. Knowing that there is scientific, evidentiary support behind the Montessori curriculum and its activities gives us an incredible amount of confidence. Seeing the results of that education gives us immense joy. This year marks our family's fifth year at Montessori ONE. Our daughters are currently enrolled in the Elementary program and are outperforming our expectations. They are independent, clever, compassionate, motivated problem-solvers who are enthusiastic about life and learning. We recommend the school to every parent who asks. Montessori ONE Academy's open enrollment period begins in January 2022. For information, visit montessorione.net.

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Pop2Play Indoor Slide (2 and older) If it’s too cold to go to the park, bring the park indoors. This slide by WowWee is made of heavy duty cardboard that is sturdy enough to be safe for children up to 50 lbs. And since it’s made of cardboard, it can fold up for easy storage. Best of all, it’s recyclable. Sunny or Rainbow slides are available. $29.99 on Amazon.com.

Space Playbox (3 and older) Houston, we have a playset. This set by Floss & Rock contains 15 wooden space figures, including an astronaut, aliens and even some space puppies. With the Space Playbox, the box itself is part of the fun; it opens up to reveal the inside of a spaceship so children have a place for their space adventures to come to life. The best part it’s portable, so space fun can continue on-the-go. $29.99 at Toyopolis in Santa Fe.

Bug Bingo (6 and older) Bug Bingo takes a familiar game and gives it a fun and educational twist. As children wait for their bugs to be called during the game, they are learning interesting facts about the creepy crawlies on their cards. Each game comes with 12 bingo cards and 200 counters. Monkey, Bird and Ocean Bingo games also are available. $29.99 at Toyopolis in Santa Fe. A smaller Dinosaur Bingo game is available for $19.99. Cūbles (6 and older) Cūbles combine paper dolls and origami for creative fun for kids. No need for scissors or glue to make these adorable paper creatures; children simply fold them by number to create 3D movable toys in the shape of an alien or a dog. $8.99 at the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History.

Hopping Horse (3 and older) This toy takes the fun of bouncing on a hopper ball and makes it even better by giving children the chance to bounce on a soft, rubber horse. Children can get some exercise and let their imagination go West as they ride this noble steed. Hopping Horse is 22 inches tall and comes with its own pump. The plush cover is removable and machine-washable. $34 at the Santa Fe Children’s Museum.

Zig and Go (8 and older)

The Genius Square (6 and older) In this award-winning puzzle game, children use dice to determine where the circle “blockers” go on the square grid. Then they must place the other colorful, differently shaped pieces in such a way that they fit perfectly around the blockers. It’s harder than it sounds! The Genius Square can be played with one or two players. $27.95 at the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History.

Steel Works Model Motorcycle (8 and older) This set includes more than 200 pieces of real steel parts for kids to create five models: motorcycle, tractor, robot, drag racer and trike. The models have articulated wheels for a real “driving” experience. Assembly is required, but all needed tools are included. $20 at the Santa Fe Children’s Museum.

Dino World Terrarium (6 and older) The Dino World Terrarium is a toy and science project in one. First, children grow their own tiny prehistoric world out of soil, sand, rocks and seeds. Once their plants grow, they have a place for their toy dinosaurs (included) to roam. Set also comes with a spray bottle for watering the seeds, stickers for decorating their terrarium and a build-in LED light for nighttime play. $30.95 at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science in Albuquerque.

Snap Ships Fusion Build Drone (8 and older) Once upon a time there were toys that came with their own storyline and these toys were PlayMonster’s Snap Ships Fusion Build Drones. These sets come with everything needed for children to build a Forge drone capable of defeating their alien enemies, the Komplex. Each set is complete on its own, but the pieces can be snapped together to create a new Fusion build. These toys inspire problem-solving and creativity. $7.99 - $24.99 (depending on the drone) at playmonster.com.

Zig and Go by Djeco contains dominoes, tracks, ramps, marbles, teeter totters and wheels for children to use to build fun courses. What they don’t know is they are also learning about cause and effect, physics and momentum as they play. This set comes with 45 pieces that are made of high-quality wood and non-toxic paints. $55.99 at Toyopolis in Santa Fe.

continued on page 13

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November/December 2021

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Northeast Heights Morris & Candelaria

505-298-7626 sunset-mesa.com

continued from page 10

Piperoid DIY Paper Pipe Robots (10 and older) What do you get when you combine pre-rolled paper pipes by inserting them together like a puzzle? Incredible 3D, anime-like robots. These paper crafts take less than 30 minutes and don’t need glue or tape to assemble. When they are completed, the robots even have moveable joints for play. Instructions are included. $22 at the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe. Tree of Life (preteen and older) Inspired by Mexican Folk Art, the Tree of Life showcases creativity in a unique way. First children assemble the wooden pieces to form an art piece made of people and animals. Then they can decorate their assembled creation any way they wish. $28 at the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe. New Nova Flying Spinner (preteen and older) The New Nova Flying Spinner, shaped like a UFO, uses AI technology to perform tricks as kids practice using different throwing speeds and angles to get it to fly around the room. To start it up, simply push the power button and give it a shake. It only needs 15 minutes to charge by attaching it to a computer with a USB cable. $29.99 at newwaveshoppe.com. Game of Phones (teen) Instead of fighting with your teens about being on their phones, why not turn phone-use into a family game? With Game of Phones, players compete by using their cell phones to come up with the best responses to the prompt on the cards. The player with the most liked responses wins. Works best with three or more players. Mini packs also are available, including the Offline pack and the Family pack. $29.95 on Amazon.com. Schrödinger’s Cat Mugs (teen) Will these mugs still be cute even if you don’t see them for yourself? The answer is yes! Pour hot water into one mug and the cat in the box is alive. Pour hot water into the other and…not so much. It’s a fun way to teach teens the quantum mechanics “thought experiment” by Erwin Schrödinger. $23 at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History in Albuquerque.

Book suggestions from Page 1 Books in Albuquerque Board Books (babies-preschool) Babies will enjoy guessing which animal will form next as different shapes combine and interact in Get Together by Miguel Ordonez. “Little Blue House Beside

the Sea” by Jo Ellen Bogart introduces little ones to the beauty of the ocean and reminds them that this beauty is something we all share. The colorful illustrations and sweet language in “Sweet, Sweet Baby!” by Javaka Steptoe lets babies know just how much they are loved. Picture Books (3-7) “In Bright Star” by New York Times bestselling author Yuyi Morales, a beautiful fawn learns to face her fears while she travels across the border countryside, which might inspire children to do the same. In “This is a Gift for You”, Emily Winfield Martin encourages children to not only give gifts, but also to appreciate all the gifts they have in life, such as hugs, sunsets and holding hands. A star wishes upon a kid in “Twinkle Twinkle Little Kid” by Drew Daywalt, leading to a sweet and surprising friendship. Early Readers (4-8) As a Step 2 reader, “Grumpy Monkey: Ready, Set, Bananas!” by Suzanne Lang helps children enjoy learning to read with the story of Grumpy Monkey and his friends running a race toward the finish line – until they find something more appealing to start racing toward. In “Waffles & Pancake: Planetary-yum” by Drew Brockington, kittens Waffles and Pancake get separated from Dad-Cat during a visit to the science museum, leading to a fun sciencefilled adventure. Children learn about the inspiring story of Maria Tallchief, a Native American prima ballerina who refused to give in to peer pressure and worked hard to succeed, in “She Persisted: Maria Tallchief” by Christina Day and Chelsea Clinton. Middle Grade (8-12) For preteens who love the unexpected, “Beasts and Beauty: Dangerous Tales” by Soman Chainani takes 12 classic fairy tales and twists them in mysterious and spooky ways. “Kaleidoscope” by award-winning author Brian Selznick plays with words and worlds like a kaleidoscope and explores the concept of love through the story of two people who are connected to each other – even in their dreams. After strangers kidnap his father, Silas Bird begins a rescue mission with only a ghost named Mittenwool and a mysterious pony in “Pony” by R.J. Palacio. Young Adult (12-18) Inspired by West African mythology, “Skin of the Sea” by Natasha Bowen tells the story of a mermaid, Simidele of the Mami Wata, who collects the souls of those who die at sea. But when she chooses to save a life instead, Simi must make amends for this forbidden act with the Supreme Creator. “In Any Sign of Life” by Rae Carson, teenage Paige wakes up from an illness only to find no one else around. Certain that she is the only one left alive, she leaves home to find a way to survive and to find out what happened to everyone else. “Dark and Shallow Lies” by Ginny Myers Sain tells the story of Grey, whose friend Elora has disappeared and no one know why, even though their town, La Cachette, is known as the “Psychic Capital of the World.” As Grey seeks to find answers, she discovers more than she bargained for – including her own psychic abilities.

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Albuquerque

Community Art Closet www.datacharter.org

Group Offers Monthly Art Supply Giveaway By DEBORAH BEGEL

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Competency-based Learners work towards mastery in essential core knowledge, skills and dispositions.

1011 Lamberton Pl NE Albuquerque, NM 87107 phone: (505) 341-0888 fax: (505) 341-0658

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November/December 2021

Winding through the campus of the now shuttered Santa Fe University of Art and Design on St. Michael’s Drive in Santa Fe, I followed red signs with black arrows to a parking lot beside two large buildings. As I walked between them, I saw about a dozen tables filled with boxes of art and craft supplies, from colored pens to pipe cleaners and paint brushes of assorted sizes. Missing from the picture, a table with a cash box and people collecting money. Imagine that! Tall and lanky Raashan Ahmad, a musician, poet, community worker and DJ, is coexecutive director of Vital Spaces, which operates the monthly art supply give-away. An experienced multi-tasker, he smiles and talks as he opens packages of acrylic paint and pours them into a box Sonia Mendez, 12, likes to paint people. Photos by Deborah filled with the Begel. colors of the rainbow, the sea, the land and all kinds of vegetation. “The idea of the Artist Closet started during the pandemic,” Ahmad said. “Schools were closing and kids were sitting at home. There needed to be some creative outlet for a lot of these kids.” So he and CoExecutive Director Hannah Yohalem, an art critic and art historian, decided to buy and collect donated art supplies and give them away on the third Saturday of every month. “It’s not just for young artists,” Ahmad added, “It’s also for emerging artists, older artists and other artists in all ranges.” Vital Spaces partnered with local organizations, including museums like Site Santa Fe, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, Museum of Contemporary Native Art and Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and businesses such as Kaune’s Market, Artisan and Fine Art Framers. In addition, departing film crews and Santa Fe residents have donated supplies and resources like paints, books and fabrics. “Artists repurpose everything,” Ahmad said. I ambled about, looking at people intent on finding just the right supplies for their next art project. My hunch that they were tapping into vast vaults of imagination was confirmed when I began to ask them about their ideas and plans. Seven-year-old Rory Parker was keeping the sun off her face with a pink canvas hat covered in white dots. She held up a satiny piece of periwinkle cloth. “Look Mom,” she said. “Are you going to take that?” asked her mother, Linda Parker, who was herself rummaging through a box brimming with fabric swatches.

“What will you make out of the cloth?” I asked Rory. “I like to make stuffed animals,” she said. “I’m going to make an elephant with this.” Nearby, six-year-old Avery Penner reached for a small box of chalk for creating sidewalk or driveway art. He said he likes to draw. Decked out in bright green plastic glasses, Alexis Palmaffy was clutching two small skeins of multi-colored yarn. She said she planned to give them to her mother, “who loves to crochet.” Then she looked down and saw perhaps 20 yards of green shimmery, Rory Parker, 7, shows her mother, Linda Parker, a glittery trim and picked it piece of cloth she’d like to use to make a stuffed up. elephant. “It kind of makes your imagination go wild being here, doesn’t it?” I asked. “It sure does,” she said enthusiastically, “Like tomorrow’s the Renaissance Fair at El Rancho de Las Golindrinas and I’m going as a fairy. So this trim is perfect for my costume.” Ahmad and Yohalem started Vital Spaces three years ago to support artists who don’t have enough space at home to work or store their supplies. They came up with the idea of renting out buildings that are empty and then renting them to artists at greatly reduced costs. So far, the group has three buildings with studios in Santa Fe. Marjo Hebert, who does mixed media collage, held up a roll of thick brown paper with designs in relief, a litany of texture. The Community Art Closet “has been needed for a long time,” said. “You never know what you’re going to find here.” A couple feet away, artist Luis Cousin was digging through a box of paints. “I paint anything from landscapes to superheroes,” he said. “I use acrylics, I use an airbrush, I’m trying to learn watercolors and I’m dabbling in oil This place is perfect for me.” Some people stop by the giveaway with a goal in mind. Ten-year old Marco McGrath said he likes to create art with spray paint but also uses pencils for his projects. “I’ll just use like normal pencils and not even color some of my drawings and just make them black and white,” he explained. “I’m working on actually getting into New Mexico School for the Arts. You have to have a portfolio of whatever you want to do. So I’m doing a lot of drawing and painting.” Marco’s mother, Jennifer McGrath, was sifting through a box of canvasses. “I’m so glad this event happened because art supplies are expensive,” she said. “I’m a working single mom and I could not have afforded to buy them right now.” Ahmad emerged from the building next to the little plaza, his arms brimming with more supplies. He said canvasses, brushes, pens and watercolors are some of the most sought-after items, and he tries to restock those for every giveaway. He also mentioned that some Saturdays, he, Yohalem and the volunteers invite emerging artists to sell their work at additional tables set up next to the art supplies. “It’s a nice way for people to start out their career,” Ahmad said. As I walked to my car, I wondered if I might see something fresh and original created with Abby’s slides or Marco’s pencils next time I visit the Community Art Closet. More information: VitalSpaces.org/community-art-closet contact@vitalspaces.org Donations may be dropped off on Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the University of Art and Design campus at the SW Annex building that Vital Spaces uses.

Who’s That I Hear? By DJ Hill FINALIST IN THE 2021 NEW MEXICO-ARIZONA BOOK AWARDS

A wonderful new children’s book that offers kids and grown-ups great bonding opportunities with a humorous story that encourages problem solving, empathy, and empowerment.This book is a comfort for those with nighttime anxiety. Order now for the holidays! Hardcover $17.95 ISBN: 978-1-7327909-2-6 Available online and at booksellers near you!

Visit OwletsCo.com for activities and storytime. DJ Hill is available for: Online/Virtual/In-Person Readings and Parent/Educator/School Talks DJ@djhill-writer.com

November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids!

Evan and the Skygoats

Local Author Wins Awards for Kids’ Book on Grieving Written After Daughter’s Passing By TANIA SOUSSAN

When Vanessa Vassar was writing “Evan and the Skygoats,” she never imagined it would become a resource for children and families grieving losses during a global pandemic. The award-winning children’s book is based on her journey of healing after the sudden passing of her daughter, Sky Velvet, at age 13. Vassar’s good friend and local artist Ophelia Cornet created whimsical paintings to illustrate the book. “There’s so much grief right now,” Vassar said in a recent interview. “Children are carrying a pretty heavy load. We need a lot more acknowledgement of children grieving and how we handle that.” Cornet agreed that the book is timely. “Right now, it seems like a very good tool for people,” she said. Vassar will be selling and signing her book at a kid-friendly outdoor Vanessa Vassar holds her daughter, event from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Nov. 7, Sky Velvet Vassar. Courtesy photos. at La Luz Coffee Hub, 1115 Griegos Rd. NW in Albuquerque. Her son, Evan Daitz, will play the cello. (See calendar for additional readings.) The book is both a touching and magical tale and a practical resource thanks in large part to the “love thoughts” that Vassar includes at the end of the book. The thoughts – one set for anyone who is grieving and another for those who are supporting someone grieving – are gifts from Vassar to help us all navigate difficult times. For example, she suggests people who are grieving “find healing places in nature and spend time in them often” and those in a supportive role “sit with someone grieving quietly and consistently.” “I can’t say enough about the love thoughts,” said Publisher Andy Dudzik of Santa Fe-based Leaf Storm Press. “When you’ve got someone in your life who is experiEvan Daitz watches while baby goats from Querque encing loss, it’s hard to Farms nibble at his clothes. know what to do.” Both Vassar and Cornet said they wished there was a book like “Evan and the Skygoats” available when they and their children were struggling with losses. “We need more tools to help children,” Vassar said. “This book that I wrote is a book that I wished I’d had.” When she was grieving, people asked what they should say and do. Vassar said she wasn’t an expert and wished she’d had a list to hand them then.

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

“We’re programmed to say, ‘I’m sorry for your loss,’ and sometimes that’s not the most helpful thing. ‘I love you’ can be better,” she said. In the story, Evan is a young boy whose sister passes away. He struggles to understand his feelings and the reactions of his parents. Things turn a corner when the family adopts three baby goats. Evan and neighbor Camille care for the goats, whose playfulness eventually evokes a laugh from Evan’s mom. “Mommy said the goats were sweet and funny like Evan and she hugged him without crying,” the book says. In a dream, the goats take Evan flying into the night sky to meet constellations like Capricornus, a goat with a fish tail. When Evan asks why he has a tail, Capricornus answers, “Well, I needed to swim through a river once long ago. We are all constantly changing. Sometimes even our biggest changes are invisible to others.” The story reflects a strong Samantha Daitz holds cousin Owen Daitz after her reading of Evan and the Skygoats at Jo's connection to nature and a Farms. quiet and gentle passing of time that helps the family heal. Like the mother in the book, Vassar first found hope when she met some baby goats and brought three to her home. “It’s amazing. They’re so sweet when they’re standing there and then they’ll just jump and do something crazy, so they’re really funny, too,” she said. “I would burst out laughing because they were so wacky.” Cornet, who teaches art classes at the Albuquerque Museum, said she wanted her illustrations to be somewhat surreal to reflect that state people find themselves in when grieving, when time slows down, things take on a different significance and perspectives change. “For me, it was a labor of love for Sky and for Vanessa,” she said. “Evan and the Skygoats” won 2021 Purple Dragonfly Book awards in three categories – family matters, spiritual books and books Cello duo Lisa Donald and Evan Daitz perform Bach about animals. at Jo's Farms with baby goat to cheer them on. The annual contest is a global competition that celebrates excellence in children’s books across 55 categories, ranging from environment and cooking to sports and family issues. “It’s pretty significant,” Dudzik said. “I’m very proud of this book.” Linda F. Radke, president of Story Monsters LLC, which sponsors the contest, said books only receive awards if they earn enough points from judges, no matter how many entries there are. In reviewing “Evan and the Skygoats,” the judges noted: "A beautifully written story to help children understand the process of grief and healing after loss. Well done." Vassar and Cornet celebrated the awards at an event with a book reading, cello performances and, of course, baby goats at Jo’s Farms this summer. Vassar’s son, Evan, wasn’t yet born when Sky died but the main character is based on him. He played the cello along with Lisa Donald, who was Sky’s cello teacher and is president of the Sky Velvet Vassar Music Foundation, which awards music scholarships to young people. The book also just won the 2021 New Mexico-Arizona Book Award for Parenting & Family.

Albuquerque

November/December 2021

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Albuquerque

NM History for Kids! By WENDY KAPLAR

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic railroad has been rolling along for 51 years. The railroad’s name is derived from the uppermost point reached by the steam engine at Cumbres Pass and the spectacularly picturesque Toltec Gorge. Riding aboard the Cumbres & Toltec is not your routine undertaking, but then there are not many ordinary things about this antique railroad’s route, which encompasses 64-miles between Chama, N.M., and Antonito, Colo. Astonishingly, the train traverses the borders of Colorado and New Mexico 11 times as it ascends the 10,015-feet high Cumbres Pass.

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Duke uk ke C Ciit y Fe en ncing w w w.dukecit y fencing.net 2840 Girard ard Blv l d N E, E ABQ 505-872-00 2 048 En Garrd En de! We’rre We e on arrd d! Fe en ncing Girra ffo or Kiid ds ages 6 & up

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November/December 2021

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad was initially part of the Rio Grande’s San Juan Extension, constructed in 1880. The San Juan Extension was chiefly used by the silver mining district of the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. At the time of its construction, the San Juan Extension was uniquely built to a gauge of 3 feet between the rail as opposed to the customary 4 feet 8.5 inches, which would become the U.S. standard. The repeal of the 1890 Sherman Act led to the decline of the silver mining district and the railroad. By 1969 the Interstate Commerce Commission granted a request by the Rio Grande to abandon the narrow-gauge main line trackage. Regrettably, most of the Rio Grande’s San Juan Extension trackage was disassembled soon after the ICC’s resolution. Thankfully, a group of dedicated railway preservationists banded together in 1970 to preserve this significant portion of New Mexico’s railroad history. It was then that Colorado and New Mexico jointly purchased the track and line-side structures from Antonito to Chama. In 1973, the Cumbres & Toltec was added to the National Register of Historic Places. In 1976, the railroad was designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers. In 2012, the railroad was appointed a National Historic Landmark. This iconic Southwestern railroad has also been featured in over two dozen films. The railroad is hosting “Christmas at the Depot” this year on Dec. 11 in Chama and on Dec. 18 in Antonito. Visitors can tour the depot, take photos with Santa, and enjoy holiday treats. There is no cost to attend Christmas at the Depot, but guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy and canned food. All collected toys and canned goods will be distributed to local nonprofit groups. Chama’s Christmas at the Depot will run from 2 to 5 p.m., followed by a lantern launch at sunset. The event also includes the Chama tree lighting ceremony, highlighting ornaments hand-crafted by area school children. Chama also will host a light parade on Main Street. Antonito’s Christmas at the Depot celebration was still being finalized at press time. Visit the Cumbres and Toltec Railroad’s website for specifics of that event: cumbrestoltec.com.

5.1: Sunday, November 21 6:30 pm

nmpbs.org

More options for in-person and telehealth pediatric care. So you don’t have to put off getting care. We’ve made in-person care safer so your kids can get well-child checks and important immunizations now – protecting their long-term health. You and your child can also talk to a pediatrician from home with a video or phone appointment. So you never have to consider putting off care to keep your kids safe. Give better health a better chance. Call (844) 505-PRES for an appointment.

A department of Presbyterian Hospital.

November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids!

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.

Little People, Big Dreams: Megan Rapinoe Author: Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara Illustrator: Paulina Morgan Ages: 4-7 years Publisher: Frances Lincoln This book shows that no matter what age or gender you are, it is OK to be different. This book is about Megan Rapinoe. She is an amazing soccer player who played with Team USA and helped her team win an Olympic Gold Medal. Rapinoe also played in the World Cup and was given the Golden Boot for being the top scorer and the Golden Ball for being the best player. But even though Rapinoe was an amazing athlete, she

was badly judged and hated because she felt love and affection toward women instead of men. This book tells more about Rapinoe’s life and how she believes that everyone should be celebrated for being just who they are! We suggest this book for all ages. Miles E., 10, & Chloe D.G., 10

To Dance: A Ballerina’s Graphic Novel Author: Siena Cherson Siegel Illustrator: Mark Siegel Publisher: Atheneum Books Ages: 8-14 years This book is about Siena Cherson Siegel, a famous, amazing ballerina. Siena grew up in Puerto Rico and loved to

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dance. She was told that she could not dance because she had flat feet, but she pushed through and moved to New York to study with the School of American Ballet. She became an amazing dancer in spite of all that she went through and danced with the New York City Ballet. This book is a memoir and the illustrations are amazing. You don’t have to be a dancer to appreciate this story of resilience! Sara H., 10

An ABC of FAMILIES Author: Abbey Williams Illustrator: Paulina Morgan Publisher: Frances Lincoln Ages: 2-5 years This book is a wonderful alphabetic book about all the different ways families are made. This book shows children that even if you are adopted, have divorced parents, have two dads or have any of the many other family types shown, you still are special and there is nothing wrong with having a different type of family! It also shows that whatever type of family you have, the people in it love you with all their heart. The book matches every letter of the alphabet to a different type of family. I believe that this book is good for ages 310. If you want to find out which type of family is matched to which letter, then try reading “An ABC of FAMILIES.” Edie H., 10

Happy Puppy, Angry Tiger: A Little Book about Big Feelings Author: Brad Petersen Illustrator: Betsy Petersen Publisher: Bala Kids Ages: 1-3 years This book is a good reminder that it’s OK that we have all different kinds of feelings. I read this book to my little brother and he loved it! He asked questions like, “What does this mean?” when the book talked about anxiety. He laughed when the

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

pictures, like the one with the meerkat, were silly. I would ask him questions like, “How do you feel right now?” so it got us talking about his emotions. This book is serious but funny because it talks about your feelings but uses animal illustrations to teach about them. We love it! Vivienne H., 10, & Greyson H., 5

Fluffles: The Brave Koala Who Held Strong Through the Bushfire, Part of: True Stories of Animal Heroes Author: Vita Murrow Illustrator: Rachel Qiuqi Publisher: Frances Lincoln Ages: 4-7 years This book is based on a true story about a brave koala named Fluffles, who lived a happy life in Australia. Fluffles ate eucalyptus leaves and slept in trees. Fluffles played with other koalas. It was the best forest ever! But then one day lightning struck. The bushfires began and the eucalyptus leaves were gone. The fires raged across South Australia. Read this amazing book if you want to know what happens to Fluffles. This book shows just how outstanding koalas are and how much they needed help when the bushfires of June 2019 blazed across their habitat. Many koalas survived, but many others did not. Find out how you can help if this happens again. The illustrations of this book are beautiful and amazingly detailed, and I recommend it for kids up to 13 as it really teaches about the importance of the world around us! Maggie A., 10

Celebrate Balloon Fiesta ... All Year Long A delightful children’s ballooning story written & illustrated by award-winning author/artist Ross Van Dusen, available at Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop and select stores near you; as well as Amazon and RioGrandeBooks.com. Published by Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Inc.® Hardcover $19.95.

For more info: 505/269-8324 Albuquerque Don’t miss advertising in our next issue, on the stands Dec.15 and featuring the

Directory of Schools & Academic Support Programs

The best option for academic struggles in reading, attention, math, and handwriting.

DEADLINES for the Jan/Feb 2022 issue: Directory Nov. 26, 2021 Ads & Calendar Dec. 1, 2021 TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE: Call 505-797-2708 or email kids@newmexico-kids.com

RioGrandeLearningSolutions.com 505-321-4486

Advertise in New Mexico Kids! and reach 75,000 parents, grandparents, educators & caregivers in central and northern New Mexico.

November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids!

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Would you like to see your art published on the cover of

New Mexico Kids! family magazine? Email images to kids@newmexico-kids.com

and include your name, age, hometown and phone number.

All ages are encouraged to submit kindergarten through college! Albuquerque

Corrales International School is a tuition-free APS, grade-A, public charter school, serving K-12 students in Albuquerque. All secondary-school students, 8th grade and up, are on an accelerated learning track that includes PLTW’s Biomedical Sciences POS, with a transition into concurrent and dual-enrollment with CNM/UNM. CIS provides students with a unique opportunity to enroll in a school dedicated to creating an environment rich in intellectual stimulation, that promotes a sense of wonder, curiosity, and motivation that will prepare students to be life-long learners. A dynamic Art, Music, and Drama program Full immersion program for Spanish High quality programming which supports development of inquiring and knowledgeable students. World Civilizations, Cultures, and Global Citizenship Disney Academy Service-Learning partnered with UNM Disney Innovation PLTW Biomedical Sciences Innovative “Leaders in Training” program Natural Helper Program

For more information or to apply: Please visit our website!

Corralesis.org 22

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November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids! Calendar & Virtual Activities New Mexico Kids! has compiled a list of in-person and virtual events, activities and resources. Most businesses, schools, organizations and programs have social media accounts and channels that can be found by searching for their names. As of press time, listings were up to date but things are changing rapidly and schedules can change. To have your events listed for free in the January/February issue, fill out our calendar form at newmexico-kids.com, or send date, time, place, cost, description of activity, sponsoring organization and contact phone to kids@newmexicokids.com. The deadline is Dec 1. Calendar listings are not guaranteed due to space limitations. All phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.

Arts & Crafts Nov 2, Day of the Dead No-Sew Sleep Masks, 5-6pm. Create a DIY sleep mask with sugar skull designs; ages 9-18, registration required, limited to 12. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, ABQ, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. Nov 2 , Online Class: Introduction to Watercolor, Zoom Webinar, noon1:30pm. Exercises and demos, learn techniques to create watercolor artwork. See website for supplies needed; ages 12+, (children are welcome to participate alongside adults), space is limited, reservations required. $5/$20/$30, okeeffemuseum.org/event/online-class-introduction-to-watercolor-6. Nov 4, Online Class: Watercolor Landscapes, Zoom Webinar, 56:30pm. Utilize watercolor painting techniques to create a landscape after looking at and discussing O’Keeffe’s landscapes. You’ll need watercolor paints, a round paintbrush and watercolor or drawing paper; ages 12+, (children are welcome to participate alongside adults), space is limited, reservations required. $5/$20/$30, okeeffemuseum.org/event/online-classwatercolor-landscapes-4. Nov 4, 6, Ribbon-Tied Journal Making, 2-4pm. Create a ribbon-tied journal with upcycled materials, customize with colors and removable pages. All materials provided, ages 13+. Sign up at the library. Free, Lomas Tramway Library,908 Eastridge NE, ABQ, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org. Nov 6, 13, 20, 27, Family Art Workshops, 1-2:30pm. Families can try a variety of art mediums, all materials supplied; all ages. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 243-7255, cabq.gov. Nov 19, Gratitude Journal Craft for Children, 2pm. For grades 2+. Free, Southside Branch Library, SF, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org. Nov 19, Thanksgiving Feast, 2:303:30pm. Themed food crafts and other activities; ages 3-10. Register online or by phone and alert of any food-related allergies. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, ABQ, 768-5141, abqlibrary.org. Nov 20, Georgia O’Keeffe Craft, 10:30am. Make a craft with Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, masks required. Free, Santa Fe Main Library, 145 Washington, SF, 955-6781, santafelibrary.org. Nov 20, Georgia O’Keeffe Craft, 1pm. Make a craft with Georgia O’Keeffe

Museum, masks required. Free, Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar, SF, 9552820, santafelibrary.org. Nov 23 , Online Class: Introduction to Watercolor, Zoom Webinar, 56:30pm. Exercises and demos, learn techniques to help create watercolor artwork. See website for supplies needed; ages 12+, (children are welcome to participate alongside adults), space limited, reservations required. $5/$20/$30, okeeffemuseum.org/event/online-class-introduction-to-watercolor-7. Dec 1, 8, 15, Holiday Nature Crafts, 68pm. During River of Lights, visit the Education Building to make gifts inspired by nature. All materials provided, no admission required. Free, ABQ BioPark, 2601 Central NW, ABQ, 848-7180, cabq.gov. Dec 4, 11, 18, 25, Family Art Workshops, 1-2:30pm. Families try a variety of art mediums, all materials supplied; all ages. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 2437255, cabq.gov. Dec 10, Kids’ Craft for the Holiday, 2pm. Make a small gift for an important adult; recommended ages 9+. Free, Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar, SF, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org. Dec. 10, Online: Drawing Class, noon-1:30pm. An intimate virtual class about drawing methods that guided the young O’Keeffe in her student days. Supplies needed: pencil/pen and paper, colored pencils, markers and pastels optional; ages 12+, (children are welcome to participate alongside adults), space limited, reservations required $5/$20/$30, okeeffemuseum.org/event/online-drawing-class-22. Dec 11, Book Page Holiday Trees, 24pm. Use old paperback books to create holiday trees; all materials provided; ages 12+. Registration required, limited to 15. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, ABQ, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org. Dec 14, Family Holiday Crafts, 4-6pm. Drop-in holiday crafts for the whole family. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, ABQ, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. Dec 15, Online Class: Drawing with Color, 5-6:30pm. An intimate online drawing class that explores how O’Keeffe used color with her artwork. See website for supplies needed; ages 12+, (children are welcome to participate alongside adults), space is limited, reservations required. $5/$20/$30, okeeffemuseum.org/event/online-classdrawing-with-color-19. Dec 17, Kid’s Craft for the Holidays, 2pm. Make a small gift for an adult. Free, Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar, SF, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org. Dec 18, Georgia O’Keeffe Craft, 10:30am. Make a craft with help from friends at Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Free, Santa Fe Main Library, SF, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafelibrary.org. Dec 18, Georgia O’Keeffe Craft, 1pm. Make a craft with help from friends at Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Free, Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar, SF, 9552820, santafelibrary.org. Dec 18, Holiday Family Craft, 3:30pm. Enjoy creating holiday crafts. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, ABQ, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

Dec 21, Holiday Craft Lab, 2-4pm. Create crafty gifts or ornaments in this buffet-style, free-for-all crafting extravaganza. Drop in or stay the whole time; materials provided, ages 6+. Registration required, limited to 15. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, ABQ, 2916260, abqlibrary.org.

Classes & Workshops Nov 7, 14, 21, 28, Kadampa Center Meditation for Kids Online, 1011:30am. In this lighthearted, fun class, children will build inner strength & confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching & activities to help increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-13. Free, meditationinnewmexico.org/calendar. Nov 12, Colcha Community StitchAlong via Zoom, 1pm. This workshop is open to all levels of experience in an informal setting, wherever participants are. There will be demonstrations and a Q&A; share what you are working on. Free, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org/event/colcha-communitystitch-along-55/#more-11880. Dec 10, Colcha Community StitchAlong via Zoom, 1pm. This workshop is open to all levels of experience in an informal setting, wherever participants are. There will be demonstrations and a Q&A; share what you are working on. Free, National Hispanic Cultural Center, nhccnm.org/event/colcha-communitystitch-along-56/#more-11882.

Cultural Centers & Museums Nov 3, Free First Wednesday ABQ Museum, 9am-5pm. General admission is free on the first Wed of the month. Timed ticketing applies. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 243-7255, holdmyticket.com. Nov 7, NM Resident Free Sunday at Museum of International Folk Art, 10am-5pm. NM residents are admitted free today; ages 16 and under always free, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill,

SF, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org. Nov 18, 3rd Thursday: Celebrating Scotland, 5-8:30pm. A celebration of all things Scottish in honor of “Designing the New: Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style” with live local Celtic music, food and drink and galleries open until 8:30pm. Free, ABQ Museum Amphitheater, 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 764-6517, cabq.gov. Dec 1, Free First Wednesday, 9am5pm. General admission is free on the first Wed of the month. Timed ticketing applies. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, ABQ, 243-7255, holdmyticket.com. Dec 5, NM Residents are Free at Museum of International Folk Art, 10am-5pm. Ages 16 and under and foundation members are always free. 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, SF, 4761200, internationalfolkart.org. Explora is a learning place that welcomes visitors of all ages and provides real experiences with real things that put people’s learning in their own hands. Science, technology, engineering, art and math exhibits are designed to engage visitors of all ages. Open 10am-5pm, TuesSuns, 1701 Mountain NW, ABQ, 600-6072, explora.us. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum Creative Activities Online: Break out the water colors, colored pencils, or whatever you have and try O’Keeffe’s techniques, okeeffemuseum.org/education/creativeactivities. National Hispanic Cultural Center offers virtual experiences including online building visits on its website, social media and YouTube channel. The Visual Arts Museum is now open 10am4pm, Tues-Suns; The Historic and Literary arts building is open 10am-4pm, Thus, Fris and a guided Torreón Tours of the “Mundos de Mestizaje” fresco are offered 11am, Thus, Fris. Timed tickets are limited and available online; those not fully vaccinated must wear a mask or multilayer cloth face covering in public, 1701 4th SW, ABQ, 246-2261, nhccnm.org. NM Dept of Cultural Affairs has links to reopenings for museums, historic sites and other institutions that have resources, activities and exhibits online. The “Visit Virtually” section includes links to NM museums, cultural centers

Albuquerque

Everyone Deserves A Chance To Fly!!!

Concerned about the development of your child age 0-3? Call us at 505-262-0801 for a free developmental screening.

www.AltaMiraNM.org

November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids!

New Mexico Kids! Calendar & Virtual Activities and libraries, newmexicoculture.org. NM Museum of Natural History & Science is open 10am-4pm, Weds-Suns and features eight permanent exhibit halls that take guests through time. Tickets must be purchased online, 1801 Mountain NW, ABQ, 841-2869, nmnaturalhistory.org/visitors/visitor-information. Santa Fe Children’s Museum is open 10am-6pm, Weds, Fris & Sats; 10am-7pm Thus with special programming for toddlers on Weds mornings and free admission on Thus for under 17 from 4-7pm. Weekly activities include storytime, Fine Art Fridays, Trains Demo, Feeding of Cornelius the Snake and Science Saturday. See website for details, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, SF, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Dance Nov 27-28, The Nutcracker, 7pm, Sat; 2pm, Sun. Presented by NM Ballet Company featuring performances by current NYC Ballet stars. $11-$55/$9 child, Popejoy Hall - UNM, 203 Cornell SE, ABQ, 9255858, newmexicoballetcompany.com. Dec 3-4, Baila! Baila!’s Christmas in New Mexico 2021, 7pm, Fri; 2 & 7pm, Sat. This annual holiday show includes music, song and dance with traditional SW flair. $32/$27/$22/$2 discount students, seniors, members, NHCC, ABQ Journal Theatre, 1701 4th SW, ABQ, 7244771, nhccnm.org. Dec 4, The Nutcracker, 2 & 7pm. Presented by NM Ballet Company featuring performances by current NYC Ballet stars. $11-$55/$9 child, Popejoy Hall UNM, 203 Cornell SE, ABQ, 925-5858, newmexicoballetcompany.com. Dec 11-12, Christmas Joy, 2 & 6:30pm, Sat; 2pm, Sun. More than 65 classically trained dancers present classical ballet, jazz and contemporary dance performances choreographed to Christmas music. $33/$25/$2 discounts for students, seniors, members, NHCC, ABQ Journal Theatre, 1701 4th SW, ABQ, nhccnm.org, magnifydancecenter.com/ensemble. Dec 17-19, Nutcracker in the Land of Enchantment, 7pm, Fri, Sat, Sun; 2pm, Sat, Sun. This classic is transported to late 1800s territorial NM with elements of the state’s heritage and traditions. $49/$39/$29/$20/$14/$2 discounts for students, seniors and members, NHCC, ABQ Journal Theatre, 1701 4th SW, ABQ, 7244771, festivalballetabq@gmail.com. Keshet Dance & Center for the Arts has a YouTube channel for online dance classes for kids ranging from fitness to hip-hop and jazz, keshetarts.org.

Fairs & Festivals Ongoing Nov 19-Dec 31, Lights of Enchantment. A Community First program with more than 350 displays. Sandia Speedway, 100 Speedway Park SW, ABQ, holdmyticket.com, lightsofenchantment.com. Nov 6, Return of the Sandhill Crane Celebration. 9am-2:30pm, welcome the Sandhill Cranes back to the Open Space

New Mexico Kids!

Visitor Center. 6500 Coors Blvd. NW, ABQ. 505-768-4950. Nov 6, Shop Small: Handmade Marketplace, 9am-1pm. Holiday gifts, food trucks, music. Free, 8200 Carmel NE, ABQ. Nov 13, ABQ Doll & Toy Show, 10am3pm. More than 30 vendors from three states sell antique, vintage and modern dolls, toys, actions figures and Teddy bears. $5, Grace Church Gym, 6901 San Antonio NE, ABQ, 508-0351, dolls-4u.com. Nov 13-14, Recycle Santa Fe Art Festival, 9am-5pm, Sat; 10am-5pm, Sun. This family friendly event includes an art market, adult and student art exhibits and make-and-take art activities. Free, Santa Fe Convention Center, 201 W Marcy, SF, recyclesantafe.org. Nov 20, Sandia Band Craft Fair, 9am4pm. This outdoor fair hosts hundreds of vendors of hand-made crafts. Shop for gifts and enjoy the autumn air. Free, Sandia High School, 7801 Candelaria NE, ABQ, sandiabandboosters.org. Nov 21, ABQ Candles and Light Hannukah Fest, noon-5pm. Latkes, arts and crafts, games, menorah and gifts. Congregation B’nai Israel, 4401 Indian School NE, ABQ, abqjew.com. Nov 26-28, Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival: Holiday Show, 10am-5pm, Fri, Sat; 10am-4pm, Sun. Shop for gifts like pottery, jewelry and fine art as well as chocolates, honey, mixes and oils. Enjoy carolers, musicians, bands and pianists. $12, 3-day admission/$8 day pass/free under age 12, Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, ABQ, riograndefestivals.com/holiday-show. Dec 3, Old Town Holiday Stroll, 59pm. Discover new stores and visit familiar staples of Old Town. Sip hot chocolate and enjoy live music by local musicians and dance groups. Free, Old Town, ABQ, cabq.gov. Dec 4, Twinkle Light Parade. This family-friendly event rolls through Nob hill with floats, marching bands, cars, bikes and Santa. Check website for updated information, cabq.gov. Dec 4, 5, Festival of Trees, noon-5pm, Sat; 10am-4pm, Sun. See the Christmas trees, make crafts, enjoy cocoa and hear live music. Event will follow the state’s COVID-19 safety mandates in place at the time of the event. Free, ABQ Uptown Marriott, 2101 Louisiana NE, ABQ, 2436626, FestivalofTrees.org.

Library Events Area Libraries offer activities including Lego Club, Book Groups, Read to the Dogs, Storytimes, Crafts, Movies and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, santafelibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com, vglibrary.org. Nov 3, 10, 17, 24 Children’s Chess Online, 5:45pm. Learn the art of chess and play chess with other kids virtually, santafelibrary.org. Nov 3, 10, 17, 24, Kids Sing-Along with Queen Bee Music Association, 3:15pm. Sing along with Teacher Brian. Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar,

November/December 2021

SF, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org. Nov 13, NM Wildlife Center “Reading with Raptors,” 1pm. Listen to a story with raptors and see one in person. Free, Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar, SF, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org. Nov 13, Snail Mail Social, 3-5pm. Stop by and write letters to the library staff; stationary, pens, etc. provided. Free, Special Collections Library, 423 Central NE, ABQ, 848-1376, abqlibrary.org. Dec 1, 8, 15, Kids Sing-Along with Queen Bee Music Association, 3:15pm. Sing along with Teacher Brian. Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar Dr, SF, 9552820, santafelibrary.org. Dec 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Children’s Chess Online, 5:45pm. Learn the art of chess and play chess with other kids virtually. See website for details, santafelibrary.org. Dec 11, NM Wildlife Center Storytime with Snakes 1pm. Listen to a story with snakes and see one in person. Free, Southside Branch Library, 6599 Jaguar, SF, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org. Dec 11, The “Polar Express” Storytime and movie, 11am-1pm. Enjoy a storytime, watch the movie and special treat. Free, Los Griegos Library, 1000 Griegos NW, ABQ, 761-4020, abqlibrary.org. Dec 11, Winter Wonderland Village, 2:30-4:30pm. Help design, build and decorate a wonderland. Create a piece of the village that will be on display; ages 318 and their adults. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, ABQ, 768-5141, abqlibrary.org. Dec 18, “Polar Express,” Rated G, 2pm. Enjoy a reading of the book and a viewing of the movie, followed by a holiday surprise; registration required, limited to 20. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, ABQ, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

Music Nov 7, ABQ Concert Band, 3-4pm. Come hear NM’s community band in a well-ventilated performing arts center; masks required indoors. Free, Eldorado High School PAC, 11300 Montgomery NE, ABQ, 256-3823, abqband.org. Nov 11, The Rebbe’s Orkestra led by Beth Cohen, 5:30-7:30pm. The band plays an international and eclectic variety of Jewish music (and some n0t-soJewish music); all ages. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org. Nov 11, UNM Jazz Bands, 7:30pm. $10/$8/$5 up to 18, Keller Hall, UNM, ABQ, unmtickets.com. Nov 17, UNM Wind Symphony, 7:30pm. Directed by Eric RombachKenall. $10/$8/$5 up to age 18, Popejoy Hall, UNM, 203 Cornell NE, ABQ, 277-3824, unmtickets.com. Nov 18-19 UNM Opera Theatre presents Siren Songs: Scenes by Women Composers, 7:30pm. $12/$10/$5 up to age 18, Keller Hall, UNM, 203 Cornell SE, ABQ, unmtickets.com. Dec 3, UNM Choirs, 7:30pm. $10/$8/$5 up to age 18, Keller Hall, UNM, 203 Cor-

nell SE, ABQ, unmtickets.com. Dec 5, NM Philharmonic Bach: Christmas Oratorio, 3pm. This performance features the NM Philharmonic and the Sunset Mesa School Choir. $50/$30/$20 students, First Unitarian Church, 3701 CarlislΩe NE, ABQ, 604-6896, nmschorus.org. Dec 7, UNM Symphony Orchestra, 7:30pm. $10/$8/$5 up to age 18, Keller Hall, UNM, ABQ, 203 Cornell SE, ABQ, unmtickets.com. Dec 8, UNM Mariachi Ensemble, 7pm. $10/$8/$5, Keller Hall, UNM, ABQ, 203 Cornell SE, ABQ, unmtickets.com. Dec 12, Christmas Treasures, 4pm. A Santa Fe tradition featuring a festive afternoon of Christmas Pops with a special side-by-side performance with Santa Fe’s Youth Symphony. $22-$80, Lensic Performing Arts Center, 211 W. San Francisco, SF, 984-8759, lensic.org. Dec 17, Christmas with the 5 Browns, 7:30pm. The 5 Browns play five pianos performing their dynamic program of holiday favorites mixed with classical favorites including "Carol of the Bells," "The Planets" and a truly fresh "Sleigh Ride." Children 2-11 must wear a mask, no children under 2. $25-$69, Popejoy Hall, UNM, 203 Cornell NE, ABQ, 277-3824, unmtickets.com. Dec 18, Holiday Pops!, 6pm. Holiday Pops! The NMPhil celebrates with timeless holiday classics. Your NMPhil is joined by the Manzano Day School Chorus, the ABQ and Youth Symphony with traditional sing-alongs; ages 2-11 must wear a mask, no children under age 2. $24-$80, Popejoy Hall, UNM, 203 Cornell NE, ABQ, 277-3824, unmtickets.com. Dec 18-21 & 23-24, A Baroque Christmas, 6 & 8:30pm. Santa Fe Pro Musica presents a holiday tradition in the festively decorated chapel. $20-$90, Loretto Chapel, 207 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, lensic.org. Dec 19, Mariachi Christmas, 3pm. Join for a NM holiday tradition with swirling dresses, lively violins and horns. Children ages 2-11 must wear a mask, no children under age 2. $25-$65, Popejoy Hall, UNM, 203 Cornell NE, ABQ, 277-3824, unmtickets.com.

Open Houses Dec 11, 5th Annual Open House Bosque del Apache 4:30am-7:30pm. This community event is geared toward families; watch migratory birds and enjoy luminaries, lights, traditional NM food and caroling. Free, Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge, 1011 NM-1, San Antonio, 575-835-1828, friendsofbosquedelapache.org/bda-events.

School Break Camps Nov 2, 11, 22-23, “Science is Everywhere,” 7:30am-5:30pm. Learn about robots, biology, forensics, engineering, chemistry and weird science. Masks, daily COVID-19 screenings and registration required; as well as lunch, two snacks and refillable water bottle.

New Mexico Kids! Calendar & Virtual Activities Grades K-6. National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, ABQ, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org Nov 23-24, Explora Camp. Camps are mornings only and are for Grades K-2 and 3-5. Topics include Kitchen Chemistry, Superhero Science, Get Your Motor Running and Chemistry of Cake. See website for details, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 224-8323, explora.us. Dec 20-23, 27-30, “Science is Everywhere,” 7:30am-5:30pm. Grades K-6. Learn about robots, biology, forensics, engineering, chemistry and weird science. Masks, daily COVID-19 screenings and registration required; as well as lunch, two snacks and refillable water bottle. Grades K-6. National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, ABQ, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

Science & Nature Ongoing, Meet Foxie and Thunder, noon-4pm. Meet this six-month-old red fox and four-month-old pronghorn; observe and learn about them. Visitors can also see four grey foxes, get eye-toeye with sister cougars and observe a 500-pound bear along with the other animals and raptors. Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 N Frontage Rd, Edgewood, 281-7655, wildlifewest.org. Nov 3, World Jellyfish Day, 10am2pm. Learn about sea jellies. Included with admission, ABQ BioPark, 903 10th SW, 764-6214, ABQ, cabq.gov. Nov 12, Black Holes: The Mystery in Full-Dome 360 Degrees, 7-8pm. Enjoy this movie followed by a short discussion and Q&A. $6/$4 child, Los Alamos Nature Center, 2600 Canyon, Los Alamos, peecnature.org. Nov 13, Vermicomposting: Composting with Worms, 11am-12:30pm. A fun and informative presentation on composting with worms; registration required. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, ABQ, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. Nov 18-20, Crane Fiesta 2021, Virtual Program. A mix of virtual media with pre-recorded videos, live webinars and virtual events. Registration required for webinars, find info at friendsofbosquedelapache.org/crane-fiesta. Nov 26, Community Day at Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 10am. Free admission to the Garden for NM residents and students, 715 Camino Lejo, SF, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org. Nov 26, Family Nature Club Hike, 10am-noon. Join an educator on a familyfriendly hike through the bosque and down the river. Listen to facts, storytelling and seek out wildlife. Arrive prepared to explore outdoors. Free, Open Space Visitors Center Westside, 6500 Coors NW, ABQ, 768-4955, cabq.gov. Dec 10, The Night Sky in December, 7-8pm. Join this planetarium talk to learn what can be seen in the night sky in December including constellations and planets. $6/$4, PEEC, 2600 Canyon, Los Alamos, 662-0460, peecnature.org/events. Dec 11, Family Nature Club Hike,

10am-noon. Join an educator on a familyfriendly hike through the bosque and down the river. Listen to facts, storytelling and seek out wildlife. Arrive prepared to explore outdoors. Free, Open Space Visitors Center Westside, 6500 Coors NW, ABQ, 768-4955, cabq.gov. Dec 12, Community Day at Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 10am. Free admission to the Garden for NM residents and students, 715 Camino Lejo, SF, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org. Fractal Fridays Online, some of the same fractal graphics shown under the planetarium dome can be enjoyed on a computer monitor at home. See Facebook and YouTube, nmnaturalhistory.org. State Parks Free Entrance Days: schedules and details can be found at nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parksstate.htm.

Sports ABQ Half-Marathon + 10K, 5K and Kids K, 8am-noon. This race crosses the Rio Grande and continues through Los Ranchos and North Valley. See website for pricing, Alvarado Elementary School, 1100 Solar NW, 217-4774, irunfit.org.

Stage Nov 14, Kevin Spencer, 2pm. This magician combines storytelling, stage magic and audience participation in a show designed for audiences of all abilities. This is a sensory-friendly performance. Free, Lensic Performing Arts Center, 211 W San Francisco, SF, 988-1234, santafe.com. Nov 18-19, “The Musical Adventures of Oliver Twist,” School Matinee 10am. NM Young Actors present a musical based on the novel by Charles Dickens. $14/$12 under 13, National Hispanic Cultural Center, ABQ, 821-8055, nhccnm.org/event/the-musical-adventures-of-oliver-twist/#more-13739. Nov 20, “The Musical Adventures of Oliver Twist,” 2pm. NM Young Actors present a musical based on the novel by Charles Dickens. $14/$12 under 13, National Hispanic Cultural Center, ABQ, 8218055, holdmyticket.com. Dec 4, Treasure Island, 5:30 & 7:30pm, North 4th Theater, 4904 4th NW, ABQ, 821-8055, northfourthnm.org. Dec 10, 11, The Voice of Christmas: A Faith-Based Nutcracker, 6:30pm, Fri, Sat; 2pm, Sat. Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite music is prevalent throughout the show, with additional music by various Christian artists; all ages. $30, South Broadway Cultural Center, 1025 Broadway SE, ABQ, 848-1320, cabq.gov, holdmyticket.com.

Storytelling Nov 3, 10, 17, 24, Wee Wednesdays, 10:30am. Storytime for Toddlers. Included with admission, Santa Fe Childrens Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, SF, 9898359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Nov 4, Storytime and Craft with Walter, 10:30am. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, SF, 955-6781, santafelibrary.org. Dec 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Wee Wednesdays, 10:30am. Storytime for Toddlers. Included with admission, Santa Fe Childrens Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, SF, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org. Dec 15, Pajama Storytime, 5:30pm. A cozy family storytime in the evening. Feel free to wear pajamas and bring a stuffed friend. Stories, songs, rhymes and activities. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org.

Also of Interest Ongoing, Kids’ Imagination Trail. Bring the kids to run, jump and play. Don’t forget to visit the other animals too. Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 N Frontage Rd, Edgewood, 281-7655, wildlifewest.org. Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Music & Play in the Park. 6-7:30pm. A family-friendly event featuring live and recorded music, movement games, yoga and sound healing. $5-$10 suggested donation, Hyder Park, 7000 Pershing SE, ABQ, 428-8648, newmexico.org. Nov 5, 12, 19, 26, Music & Play in the Park, 4:30-6pm. An all-ages, family friendly event featuring live and recorded music, movement games, yoga and sound healing. $11-$33 suggested donation, Alto Park, 1121 Alto, Santa Fe, 4288648, newmexico.org. Nov 7, Book Signing of award-winning children’s book“Evan and the Skygoats,” 10am. Meet the author and hear the “real” Evan play his cello at an outdoor book signing; all ages. Free, La Luz Coffee, 1115 Griegos NW, ABQ, 6706166, vanessavassar.com/events. Nov 7, Railyard Artisans Market, 10am-3pm. Food, deserts, locally made chocolate, music and more than 40 local artists. Free, 1607 Paseo de Peralta, SF, railyardsantafe.com. Nov 11, Historic Fairview Cemetery Veterans Day Tour, 10am-2pm. Visitors can honor those who have served in the US military. Take a self-guided tour and listed to speakers. Free, donations accepted, Historic Fairview Cemetery, 700 Yale SE, 265-7215, visitalbuquerque.org. Nov 11, Veteran’s Day Parade & Ceremony, 10am-noon. Celebrate Veterans and remember their selfless service. The parade will start head east from Country Club Drive down Southern; ceremony starts at 11am. Free, 950 Pinetree SE, Rio Rancho, 891-5015, rrnm.gov. Nov 14, Book Signing of award-winning children’s book“Evan and the Skygoats,” 10am. Meet the author and hear the “real” Evan play his cello at an outdoor book signing; all ages. Free, Cutbow Coffee, 1208 Rio Grande NW, ABQ, 670-6166, vanessavassar.com/events. Nov 20-21, Hero In All Of Us, 11am4pm. Come together as a community to stand up against child abuse. The event will give children the chance to meet

heroes and princesses, have princess makeovers, photo ops, an all-day pizza party and an interactive kids corner. $15$80, B-Lit Nutrition, 4003 Central NE, 2363332, holdmyticket.com. Nov 21, “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”, 6:30pm. NMPBS, KNME 5.1, nmpbs.org. Nov 27, Book Signing of award-winning children’s book“Evan and the Skygoats,” 10am. Meet the author and hear the “real” Evan play his cello at an outdoor book signing; all ages. Free, Jo’s Farms, 2017 Rio Grande NW, ABQ, 6706166, vanessavassar.com/events. Dec 3, 10, 17, 31, Music & Play in the Park, 4:30-6pm. An all-ages, family friendly event featuring live and recorded music, movement games, yoga and sound healing. $11-$33 suggested donation, Alto Park, Santa Fe, 1121 Alto, 4288648, newmexico.org. Dec 4, Reindeer Romp, New Festival of Trees Event, 9-11am. This kid-centric event includes a Reindeer Breakfast, make-and-take crafts, games, storytelling, visits with Santa and prizes. Tickets must be purchased in advance, price includes entry for one child and one adult. $25, ABQ Uptown Marriott, 2101 Louisiana NE, ABQ, 243-6626, FestivalofTreesNM.org. Dec 4, 11, 18, 25, Santa Fe Artists Market, 9am-2pm. Meet artists as they display fine arts, jewelry, photography and other forms of art. Free, West Casitas, North of the Water Tower, 1612 Alcaldesa, SF, 414-8544, railyardsantafe.com. Dec 11-12, ABQ Holiday Market, Railyards, 10am-4pm. This event brings food, art and music together for the 8th annual market. Free, Railyards Market, 777 1st SW, ABQ, 600-1109, railyardsmarket.org. Dec 17, “Home Alone” & Hot Chocolate, 6-8:30pm. Enjoy a cozy night featuring a hot chocolate bar and screening of this holiday movie. $7, PEEC, 2600 Canyon, Los Alamos, 662-0460, peecnature.org/events. Dec 18-21, Santa’s Workshop Fiasco Escape Room, 2pm & 4pm, Sat; 3pm, Sun; 4:30 & 6:30pm, Mon & Tue. Participants have 60 minutes to free santa from an escape room. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org. 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.

Just for Teens Teen Artists. Teens & Tweens ages 9-17 have your art featured in the Teen Room white board for two weeks. Sign up at Central & Unser Library, 8801 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary.org.

November/December 2021

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The Young Scientist By AILEEN O’CATHERINE Have you ever rubbed your feet on a carpet and then touched metal only to get a shock? If so, an electric current ran through you. While it’s called static electricity, it is rather like a spark or firework. Lightning is a giant electric spark, a kind of firework. Lightning also is an electric current. If you observe a thunderstorm, you may see some bright flashes of lightning because thunderstorms produce lightning. When two electrically charged regions spark electricity between clouds, the air or the ground, lightning can occur. In thunderclouds, small, frozen raindrops collide into each other as they travel around in the air. The collisions create an electric charge, much like the charge you get when walking on carpet, building up static electricity. When the cloud fills up with electric charges, the protons, or positive charges, build up at the top of the cloud and the electrons, or negative charges, build up at the cloud’s bottom. When the two charges surge toward each other in the cloud, intracloud lightning occurs. This is the most common type of lightning. A second type of lightning, cloud to cloud lightning, occurs when two thunderclouds come together and exchange charges. The third type of lightning is cloud to ground lightning. Objects on the ground have a positive charge. When the negatively charged molecules in the cloud come close enough to the ground, a positive surge comes up from the ground, the two surges meet and lightning occurs. While this is the least common type of lightning, it is the one that is best understood and can be studied. One of the places where scientists study lightning is in New Mexico at a science lab called the Langmuir Laboratory for Atmospheric Research. The lab is part of the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech) in Socorro and is located in the Magdalena Mountains on South Baldy, the highest peak in the Magdalenas, at an elevation of 10,679 feet (3,255 meters). Lightning can be found most often in the mountains. New Mexico Tech also works with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to map the network of lightning activity in storms that take place around the greater metropolitan Washington, D.C., area. A series of separate observation stations form an array, a three-dimensional lightning location system. The pictures of radiation that are measured at the stations can be studied by scientists. The lab also has arrays to map lightning in Oklahoma and northern Alabama. Lightning happens every day all over the world. About 100 lightning strikes take place on the Earth every second. When lightning strikes, the air around it heats up. That’s because lightning is about 54,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Your normal body temperature is around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. The surface of the sun is 10,000 degrees, so lightning is more than five times hotter than the surface of the sun! When the air around a lightning strike heats up, the air expands and vibrates. That’s what makes thunder — vibrating air. Thunderstorms always have lightning because the lightning comes first to create the thunder. While there can’t be thunder without lightning, there can be lightning without a thunderstorm. Lightning can appear in volcanic eruptions, during extreme forest fires and in heavy snowstorms. Lightning is dangerous, so when a thunderstorm erupts, it’s always best to get indoors. Remember the rule of 30-30. After you see lightning, start counting to 30. If you hear thunder before reaching 30, get indoors. Don’t go out again for at least 30 minutes after you have heard the last clap of thunder.

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Museum School Winter 2022 Art classes for children ages 3 to 14 Classes begin January 5 Preschool Adventures in Art (ages 3-6 and their grown up) Wednesdays

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November/December 2021

Across 1. Spork that became Bonnie's favorite toy 4. Sheriff in Toy Story 6. ___! I found you! 7. One of the plush toys Buzz escapes with at the carnival 8. Doll in Toy Story 4 who has sycophant ventriloquist dummies (her name is repeated) 10. "Ocean's ____" movie 13. Timid 15. Color of Christina Hendricks' hair (she is the voice of Gabby Gabby is Toy Story 4) 16. Large snake 18. Little girl in Toy Story 4, the owner of Forky 20. One of the sheep in Toy Story 4 22. Letters that sound like snakes hissing 23. Christmas ____ 24. Stuntman in Toy Story 4, ___ Caboorn 25. Actor who was the voice of Bunny, Jordan ____ Down 1. Small lie 2. Buzzy Lightyear is a toy Space ___ 3. "Whoopee!" 4. What a dog does with its tail 5. "Whoopee!" 9. He lived with Tarzan 10. Dumbo the Elepahnt has big ____s 11. Doggie doctor 12. ___ Sheeran 13. Dad's boy 14. Actor who was the voice of Woody, Tom ___ 16. She has sheep in Toy Story 4, 2 words 17. At the end of Toy Story 4 Woody gave his sheriff's badge to ____ 19. Actor who was the voice of Sinbad, ___ Pitt 21. Money paid to go to a lawyer or doctor Solution on onpage Solution page39 xx

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Oliver Twist Nov. 20, 2:00 p.m. Nat’l Hispanic Cultural Ctr. Tickets: www.nhccnm.org or 724-4771

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S c h o o l s & A c a d e m i c S u p p o r t P r o g ra m s Santa Fe Area Schools Fayette Street Academy, 830 Fayette St., SF, NM 87505. Phone: 505-982-3396; Email: info@fayettestreetacademy.org; Website: fayettestreetacademy.org; Ages: 5-12; Enrollment: 42; Average Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/7; Cost: $9,750. For over 40 years, we have offered high quality, individualized education with a small student-to-teacher ratio. Our scholar citizens, ages five through twelve, are divided between a kindergarten and three multi-age classes, based on levels of neurological development. Our curriculum is constructed to match these different stages. Piaget was correct when he stated that children are not simply little adults, they actually perceive the world in different ways at different ages. We hope you will join us for a tour, at our wonderful campus in Santa Fe! Fayette Street Academy is currently discussing enrollment for the coming year, for all ages.

enhanced by differentiated instruction from master educators. We fully prepare students for the next phase of learning. Our K-6-quality curriculum taught by master educators enables preschoolers to make strong/seamless transition to elementary while our K-6 program provides a solid foundation for students to advance into middle school with skills/spirit that enable them to excel. Financial Aid; Before and After Care. Enrichment programs: Soccer, swimming, science, clay, running, chess, acting, and more. 165 students, pre-K through sixth grade; 43% boys, 57% girls. Student-Educator ratio is 6:1. Capacity is 16 Pequenos, 18 Grandes and 20 in Kindergarten through sixth grade. 39% of students receive tuition assistance between 10% and 90% of the cost.

La Casita Preschool, 438 Alamo Drive, SF, NM 87501. Phone: 505-983-2803; Email: lacasitapreschool@gmail.com; Website: lacasita.edu; Contact: Jeffrey Clough, Co-Director. Ages: 2.5 to 6. Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/6. Cost: Depends on number of days and times. Accredited by: NAEYC. At La Casita we strongly believe in PLAY. Play is essential for children to learn. We create a self-directed play environment and offer a wide variety of play experiences, expressive materials, learning and exploring experiences not available at home. We provide a setting where each child can grow at their own pace and according to their own needs. We focus on the total development of the child: Social, emoSanta Fe tional, physical and intellectual. Scholarships/Financial Aid.

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Little Earth School, 321 West Zia Rd., SF, NM 87505. Phone: 505-988-1968; Email: ellen@littleearthschool.org; Website: littleearthschool.org; Contact: Ellen Souberman, Director. Grades: Preschool-Elementary; Ages: 2 – 9 years; Enrollment: 40; Established in 1978, Little Earth School provides a successful program of academic excellence for children preschool through elementary. Children learn through an integrated, developmentally appropriate and experiential curriculum which includes art, music, Spanish, yoga, environmental and multicultural studies and which emphasizes respect for self and others. Tuition assistance and before and after care available.

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Rio Grande School, 715 Camino Cabra, SF, NM 87505. Phone: 505-9831621; Email: admissions@riograndeschool.org; Website: riograndeschool.org; Contact: Rachel Gantt, Associate Head of School. Grades: Preschool through 6th Grade; Ages: 3-12. Enrollment: 165; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:6; Cost: 15K-21K; Accredited by: NAIS, ISIS. At Rio Grande School we combine academic rigor and excellence with a collaborative, experience-based education. We bring learning to life through a challenging, integrated curriculum

Students at Fayette Street Academy in Santa Fe match sounds and letters during a mini language arts class. Courtesy photo. Santa Fe Girls’ School, 310 W. Zia Road, SF, NM 87505. Phone: 505-820-3188; Email: admissions@santafegirlsschool.org; Website: santafegirlsschool.org; Contact: Rosie Williams, Co-Director. Grades: 6, 7, 8; Enrollment: 45; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:7; Cost: $15,000. Santa Fe Girls' School is a small, allgirls middle school designed for this critical period of development. We provide a culture where girls develop into self-advocating, confident, and academically prepared high school students. Our thoughtful academic curricula engages our students' curiosity and excellence; our small class size ensures that each student's abilities, challenges and accomplishments are recognized by her teachers. Our graduates go on to the public and private high schools of their choice as academic and social leaders. Financial Aid. Enrichment programs: Self-defense, electives. Call or email to schedule a visit. Santa Fe Waldorf School, 26 Puesta del Sol, SF, NM 87508. Phone: 505-4676431; Email: kpavuk@santafewaldorf.org; Website: santafewaldorf.org; Contact: Kate Pavuk, Admissions Coordinator; Grades: PreK – 12; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/9; Cost: $4,950 - $20,300; Accredited by AWSNA/WECAN. Discover a school where the arts, academics and athletics come alive in a truly integrated curriculum that mirrors the child’s inner development and carefully balances continued on page 34

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

Santa Fe

Santa Fe ELEMENTARY

PRESCHOOL

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Children are admitted without regard to gender, race, color, religion, creed, national origin or disability

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Santa Fe

Fostering academic conﬁdence & emotional resilience in a collaborative learning environment.

Now scheduling student Shadow Days 310 West Zia Road • 505.820.3188 Tuition assistance available

November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids!

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academic, artistic and practical activities to prepare the child as thoroughly as possible for all life experiences. An international network of mindful education, Waldorf is one of the fastest-growing educational movements in the world, with 1,200+ schools operating worldwide. Parent & Child classes also available. Scholarships, Financial Aid and Before and After Care available.

Academic Support Programs Santa Fe Children's Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, SF, NM 87505. Phone: 954303-4028; Email: hhausman@santafechildrensmuseum.org; Website: santafechildrensmuseum.org; Contact: Hannah Hausman, Executive Director. Ages: 0-8. Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/10; Cost: $5 – $295. The Santa Fe Children's Museum provides ongoing educational programming, including complimentary virtual and in-person field trips, grab-and-go kits, and in-person seasonal camps for ages 5-8. Scholarships; Before and After Care.

Albuquerque Area Schools 1st Class Learning Center, 5111 Homestead Circle NW, Abq, NM 87120. Phone: 505898-5702; Email: 1stclasslearningcenter@gmail.com; Website: 1stclasslearningcenter.com; Contact: Leann C Gordinier, Owner/Director. Ages: 6 Weeks to 12 Years Old. Mission Statement: To provide a learning environment that is safe, enjoyable, interesting and peaceful for all children, their families and community. Our philosophy: We believe in our curriculum where each child develops according to age and capacity, having the freedom to develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually without any pressure. We also believe children learn best when rules and limits are clear and consistent. Most importantly, we believe that children learn best by staff members who create an atmosphere that is loving, warm, caring and friendly by which all children feel accepted, safe, and a part of 1st Class Learning Center. Financial Aid; Before and After Care. Enrichment programs: FOCUS. Reasonable childcare for ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. CYFD subsidized care is also available and we do not charge sales tax. Discounts are also available. We have an age appropriate curriculum. We serve nutritional meals mandated by CACFP. All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and have their background clearance. Staff also takes child care training mandated by the CYFD. Albuquerque Academy, 6400 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87109; Phone: 505-8283208; Email: admission@aa.edu; Website: aa.edu; Contact: Amy Eglinton Keller, Director of Admission and Enrollment Management. Grades: 6-12; Enrollment: 1,164; Teacher: Student Ratio: 1:7; Cost: $25,390 (including lunch); Accredited by Independent Schools Association of the Southwest. Albuquerque Academy students are defined by their curiosity. They are eager to learn. They question, engage, and challenge. They lead, solve, and invent, and they have endless opportunities to explore. And at all times, they are supported by a caring community. Enrichment programs: Think Summer, ThinkIt!, Multicultural Summer Honors Program, Community Academy, Charger Aquatics. Devoting our resources to ensure economic accessibility to our students and to support the wider community through outreach and community service, we award more than $4.5 million in need-based tuition assistance each year. Applications for Fall 2022 are available at aa.edu. Application fee is $65. Admission applications and tuition assistance applications are due January 7, 2022. Bosque School, 4000 Bosque School Rd. NW, Abq, NM 87120. Phone: 505-898-6388; Email: admission@bosqueschool.org; Website: bosqueschool.org; Contact: Ryan Hannon, Director of Enrollment. Grades: 6-12; Enrollment: 440; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:10; Cost: $24,960; Accredited by Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS). Bosque School is an independent college preparatory school in Albuquerque, NM, serving students in grades 6–12. We create transformative learning experiences that empower a diverse community of students to lead lives of intellectual curiosity, personal integrity, and compassionate contribution to a more just world. We manifest our mission through our core values of inspiring academic excellence, cultivating community, fostering integrity, and learning from place. Our dynamic, immersive, interdisciplinary learning environment challenges each student to think critically, creatively approach problems, and collaborate effectively with cultural competence. Experience Challenging Education in action by visiting our 42acre campus alongside the Rio Grande or online at www.bosqueschool.org. Financial aid is available. Before school care and after school care are available. Enrichment Program: Bosque Learning Center. Apply by January 7, 2022. Applicants will be notified of their admission decision on February 25, 2022.

Congregation Albert Early Childhood Center, 3800 Louisiana Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87110. Phone: 505-883-0306; Email: ecc@congregationalbert.org; Website: congregationalbert.org; Contact: Dale Sides Cooperman, Early Childhood Director. Ages: 2-kindergarten; Accredited by FOCUS. Welcome to Congregation Albert’s Early Childhood Center, established in 1982. Our 5 Star accredited early learning environment school strives to make your child’s first school experience a happy and secure one. We offer a positive foundation for all future learning, creating that joyful, lifelong learner, where our students learn that education is both fun and important. We believe in sustaining a culture of inquiry, with licensed early childhood educators who partner with families and children, and where together we listen, wonder and reflect. Committed to providing an emergent and inspiring learning environment for a diverse population of young children, we provide classes for 2 through 5 year olds and an accredited kindergarten where Jewish culture, values and holidays are gently integrated. We are play-based and child-centered, supporting the uniqueness of our students and families. Joyfully, we welcome all families and all faiths. Call and inquire about full or part time choices. Limited scholarships may be available. Stringent COVID guidance is followed in our efforts to provide a safe space for you and your children. Come learn, play and grow with us! Corrales International School, 5500 Wilshire Ave. NE, Abq, NM 87113. Phone: 505344-9733; Email: info@corralesis.org; Website: corralesis.org; Contact: Mark Tolley, Head of School. Grades: K-12. Enrollment: 260; Teacher/Student Ratio: varies, average 1/21; Cost: None; Accredited by: New Mexico Public Education Department. Corrales International School (CIS) is a tuition-free public charter school serving K12 students in Albuquerque. CIS offers a Bilingual (Spanish) education and International Baccalaureate Primary and Middle Years programs. Students also engage with a comprehensive STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) curriculum geared toward biomedical sciences. Students follow an advanced curriculum and upper-level students are able to earn college credits from CNM and UNM. Before and After Care. Enrichment programs: Tutoring and Community for Learning. K-2 90-10 Spanish Immersion. International Baccalaureate Program. Concurrent enrollment with CNM/UNM. Bio-Medical Sciences focus. Cottonwood Montessori School, 3896 Corrales Rd, Corrales, NM 87048. Phone: 505-239-1765; Email: trish@cottonwoodschool.org; Website: cottonwoodschool.org; Contact: Trish Nickerson, Executive Director. Grades: Toddler-6th Grade; Ages: 18 month to 12 years. Enrollment: 160; Cost: $8,000-$14,000. Accredited by: COGNIA and ECECD. At Cottonwood School, how children learn is as important as what children learn. We partner with parents who believe that the early years are the most important. Together we cultivate each child's talent and character by nurturing their social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. Our high quality, state accredited programs unleash the potential of every child and develop a foundation for academic achievement and lifelong success. Our faculty is comprised of dedicated Early Childhood and Elementary teachers and aides whose common goal is to encourage the development of each child through individualized learning opportunities. Our dynamic hands-on Montessori curriculum also includes weekly enrichment programs in Art, Drama, Music, P.E., Steel Band and Environmental Education. Our unique children’s garden, working greenhouse, chicken coop and apple orchard are mini-land labs which take science out of the textbook and into the hands of our students. Our classrooms are warm, open environments conducive to exploration and collaboration as well as independent study. Our students are grouped in multi-age clusters which facilitate optimal learning through peer mentoring, teamwork and community building. We consistently maintain low studentteacher ratios of 14-1 in Early Childhood and Elementary programs and 8-1 in Toddler classes. Cottonwood School is located 5 minutes from Albuquerque and Rio Rancho in the historic Village of Corrales and is housed in several beautiful Southwestern buildings. A 15 minute walk from the Rio Grande, our cozy campus is situated on 7 acres of bosque land. Before and after care available. We utilize both indoor and outdoor classrooms while safely distancing our students and their families. Our faculty is 100% vaccinated and we use mask wearing protocols inside and out, along with classroom and playground pods, heavy cleaning and daily sanitizing. Digital Arts and Technology Academy, 1011 Lamberton Pl. NE, Abq, NM 87107. Phone: 505-341-0888; Email: lisa.myhre@datacharter.org; Website: datacharter.org; Contact: Lisa Myhre, Director. Grades: 7-12, Enrollment: 325; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:15; Cost: Free; Accredited by: NMPED. Our mission is to design supportive learning environments that promote academic curiosity, social justice, equity, joy and empathetic practices so our students can become creative, independent thinkers capable of choosing their own path and purpose. Enrichment programs: Clubs and sports through NM Charter League. Early College Academy, 807 Mountain Rd. NE, Abq, NM 87102; Phone: 505-2473658; Email: arguelles@aps.edu; Website: cec.aps.edu; Contact: Patrick Arguelles, Principal; Grades: 9-12; Enrollment: 200; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/13; Cost: FREE; Accredited by: NM PED. We are an APS Early College Magnet HS and School of continued on page 36

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

Albuquerque/Rio Rancho

Albuquerque

5111 Homestead Circle NW Albuquerque, NM 87120 1st Class Learning Center is a childcare center licensed by the State of New Mexico.

• Quality childcare 6 weeks to 12 years. • CYFD subsidized care available, no sales tax charged. • Reasonable prices & discounts. • Age appropriate curriculum. • Nutritional meals mandated by CACFP, included in the price. • All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and background cleared. • Staff also takes childcare training mandated by CYFD. 20% off for essential workers untill end of 2021

Professional, caring, and highly-trained staff. Low child-to-staff ratios. Nurturing, fun, and safe environment for children to socialize, learn, and grow. Enriching classrooms and playgrounds. And much more.

COVID-19 safe practices! Please feel free to visit our newly renovated center in Taylor Ranch, across the street from LBJ Middle School.

(505) 898-5702

Find us on Facebook or visit us at www.southwestchildcare.com

1stclasslearningcenter@gmail.com 1stclasslearningcenter.com facebook.com/1stClassLearningCenter

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Choice offering rigorous academic curriculum with opportunities for dual credit course work. ECA was awarded 2019 National Blue Ribbon HS status as an exemplary high achieving HS. ECA has the highest graduation rate and PARCC scores in district, highest ACT scores in city. We transport students from every part of the city everyday to the best high school in NM! Financial Aid. We are a College Preparatory School. If you would like your 8th grade student to get a closer look at our amazing school and shadow a current student, please call 505-247-3658 today to schedule. We are the sister school of the Career Enrichment Center and all ECA students have access to many unique academic opportunities. Visit cec.aps.edu to learn more.

effective research-based curriculum in early childhood education. We specialize in Spanish-Immersion for children from 6 weeks to 5 years of age. We also provide a Bilingual Before- and After-School and Summer Program for children 5 to 12 years old. La Esperanza nurtures children in a loving environment allowing them to grow both in faith and learning. We are a year-round program open Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm. We offer full-time care and participate in the NM Early PreK, NM PreK, ECECD, CNM, and Military child care assistance programs. Now enrolling for 2021-2022 School Year. Please call to schedule your tour today.

Escuela del Sol Montessori, 1114 Manzano Day School, 1801 7th St. NW, Abq, NM 87102. Phone: Central Ave. NW, Abq, NM 87104. 505-242-3033; Email: Phone: 505-243-6659; Email: evilleoffice@edelsol.org; Website: escuegas@manzanodayschool.org; ladelsol.org; Contact: Elizabeth Website: manzanodayschool.org; Marcilla; Administrative Director. Contact: Emily Villegas, Director of Grades/Ages: 18 months thru Admission and Financial Aid. 8th grade; Enrollment: 200; Grades: Pre-k through 5th; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:6 Toddler, Enrollment: 460; Teacher/Student 1:12 Primary, Elementary & Jr. High. Ratio: 1/10; Cost: $12,270-$15,670; Accredited by American Montessori Accredited by: ISAS and NM Society, National Council on Private Department of Education. Manzano School Accreditation. Escuela del Day School, founded in 1938, is an Sol Montessori is an independent independent, nonsectarian elemennot-for-profit school that provides tary school dedicated to innovative the best educational conditions to child-centered education, excelengage and nurture every child's lence in teaching and Joy in innate passion to learn. Learning® to prepare children for Fundamental skills are integrated a life of discovery and community into an interdisciplinary program to involvement in our diverse world. nurture creativity and enthusiasm Applications for 2022-23 are now for learning while fostering critical being accepted. Financial Aid; thinking and social responsibility. Before and After Care. Learning in an environment of kindness, courtesy, self-respect, and Montessori ONE Academy, 9360 consideration for others is crucial Holly Ave. NE, Abq, NM 87122. to moral development, a sense of Phone: 505-822-5150; Email: direcdignity, and academic success. Intor@montessorione.net; Website: person and distance learning availmontessorione.net; Contact: Tina able. Scholarships/Financial Aid; Patel, Founder. Grades: Infant, Elementary students in the Montessori ONE Academy Science Lab. Courtesy photo. Before and After Care. Enrichment Preschool, Elementary; Ages: programs: Spanish, Music, Art, Six Weeks – 11 Years. Gardening. On-site chefs provide delicious and nutritious lunches and snacks. Enrollment: 200; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:12; Infants: 1:4. Cost: $1,250/Month (Average); Accredited by: Association Montessori Internationale. Montessori ONE Hoffmantown Kids Express, 8888 Harper Dr. NE, Abq, NM 87111. Phone: 505Academy is an AMI-recognized (Association Montessori International/USA), 858-8602; Email: janicef@hoffmantown.org; Website: hoffmantownchurch.org; authentic Montessori infant care, preschool and elementary academy. Children Contact: Janice Faulkner, Director of Kids Express. Ages: 2 years to Pre-K; at Montessori ONE Academy are encouraged to explore, investigate and fulfill Enrollment: 182; Teacher/Student Ratio: 2/14. Kids Express provides quality care their natural curiosity about the world around them. Under the guidance of our in a positive, Christian atmosphere which promotes the spiritual, cognitive, and AMI-recognized Montessori teachers, children develop at their own pace and socio-emotional growth of children. Our developmentally appropriate curriculearn that school and learning can be a fun and exciting adventure, thus creatlum along with Bible stories and activities helps provide educational fundamening lifelong learners. Before and After Care. Enrichment programs: Drama, tals and social experiences that prepare our students for greater success in Music, Physical Education, Spanish and more. Enrollment is on a rolling schedKindergarten. Cost varies with program. Each classroom provides playing and ule based upon availability. learning centers where children can participate in individual or group educational play so that each child can learn about their world through exploration. Our Montessori School, 1111 Eubank Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87112. Phone: 505-2756111; Email: roxanne@ourmontessori.com; Website: ourmontessori.com; Lisa Hope Christian School, 8005 Louisiana Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87109. Phone: 505Seider, Administrative Assistant; Ages: Infant - 6 years; Teacher/Student 822-5399; Email: admissions@HCSNM.org; Website: HCSNM.org; Contact: Ratio: Infant, 1-4 ratio / 2 & 3 yr 1-6 ratio / 3-6 yr 1-10 ratio; Cost: Varies per proAdmissions. Grades: Preschool through High School; Ages:3-18; gram; Accredited by: FOCUS 5 STAR. Welcome to Our Montessori School (OMS), a Enrollment: 1,175; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:16; Accredited by ICAA, Cognia (fornot-for-profit organization, and the world of Montessori Education! We are a 5merly AdvancEd), NMPED. HOPE is a private, non-denominational Christian Star Facility! The purpose of Our Montessori School is to provide a unique, school serving students on three campuses in NE Albuquerque. Our mission is to authentic Montessori education for infants - 6yrs, infant, preschool & kinderpray for, equip, and send Christ-centered, passionate leaders to change the garten. We believe that appropriate education received at these early ages creworld. Since 1976, Hope has sent out more than 2,700 graduates, with 98 perates a love of learning for a lifetime. Financial Aid; Before and After Care. cent going on to college or military service. Our Advanced Curriculum, with a Enrichment programs: Art, Music, Cooking, Science, Spanish, Yoga, P.E., Peace Biblical worldview, is offered alongside comprehensive Athletics and Arts proCurriculum. Our Montessori School has been in business for over 25 years! We grams on all three campuses. Scholarships/Financial Aid. Before and After Care. accept families with CYFD assistance. We follow a non-discriminatory policy; accepting children and families of all races, creeds, social and economic status. We have been OPEN for five day per week in-class learning throughout COVID, We will coordinate and work with families and outside resources in the commuabiding by all government mandates with respect to COVID! nity to include necessary modifications to ensure full participation of your child. La Esperanza, two locations: 5740 Night Whisper Rd. NW, Ste. 200, Abq, NM 87114 (505-896 6764) and 1721 Wellspring Ave. SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124 (505-891Sandia Preparatory School, 532 Osuna Rd. NE, Abq, NM 87113. Phone: 505-3382755). Website: laesperanzacdc.com; Email: info@laesperanzapreschool.com. La 3007; Email: admission@sandiaprep.org; Website: sandiaprep.org; Contact: Laura Esperanza CDC is a 5-star nationally accredited Bilingual & Christian education Fitzpatrick, Assistant Head of School for Enrollment Management. Grades 6 – program. We provide high-quality care, and well-planned and developmentally 12; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/7; Enrollment: 514. Accredited by National appropriate activities, in COVID safety practices and a healthy environment. We employ qualified professionals to provide that care and teach and use the most continued on page 38

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

Albuquerque

Albuquerque/Rio Rancho

Corrales

Infant and Toddler Care

SPANISH IMMERSION EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTER

La Esperanza

Child Development Center, LLC

5 0 5 - 8 9 1 -2 75 5 www.LaEsperanzaCDC.com

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Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS). Sandia Prep is an independent, college preparatory school. Your student will take meaningful risks in a supportive community while learning who they are and who they want to become. Through a blend of contemporary and traditional education, your student will think creatively, critically, and without limits. They will grow in confidence and resilience as they navigate the world. Our cohesive community means no one goes overlooked or unnoticed. "Small by design" means greater opportunities for each student to grow as a leader. Financial Aid. Enrichment Programs: The Center for Learning Excellence (CFLE) at Sandia Prep offers academic services to meet the individual needs and learning styles of students. It is our philosophy that all attending students should be afforded opportunities to succeed academically. The Center for Learning Excellence offers Accommodation Plans, Academic Coaching, Structured Study Hall, Academic Skill Intervention, Study Strategies Support, Assistive Technology Support and ACT/SAT Standardized Test Accommodations. Southwest Child Care, Abq, NM. Website: southwestchildcare.com; Ages: 012. 5-Star Child Care; Nationally Accredited; Infant & Child Care; Preschool & NM Pre-K; Before & After Care; USDA Food Program and Nutritious Meals. Professional, caring, and highly-trained staff provide a nurturing, fun, and safe environment for children to socialize, learn, and grow. Low child-to-staff ratios. Enriching classrooms and playgrounds. Financial Aid. And much more. Three ABQ Locations–Wyoming location: 4802 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87111. Phone: 505-296-3121. Lomas location: 11800 Lomas Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87112. Phone: 505-294-2233. Uptown location: 2626 Texas St. NE, Abq, NM 87110. Phone: 505-293-2626. SpringStone Montessori Schools, Abq and Rio Rancho, NM. Website: springstonekids.com. Nationally-accredited schools accepting children infant–6 years. Schools are open Mon-Fri, 6:30am–6pm. Four state-of-the-art facilities: N. Abq Acres–7940 Carmel Ave NE, 505-821-8181; UNM Area–1615 Randolph Ct. SE, 505-242-1234; Paradise Hills–4598 Paradise Blvd. NW, 505-897-8111; Rio Rancho– 2441 Grande SE, 505-994-8111. Enrichment Programs. Sunset Mesa School, Northeast Heights, Morris & Candelaria, ABQ, NM 87111. Phone: 505-298-7626; Website: sunset-mesa.com; Contacts: Kateland North, Director of Admission; Email: admissions@sunset-mesa.com. Preschool Programs: (Ages 2½-PreK); Elementary School: (K-5); Preschool Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/8, with no more than 16 per class; Elementary School Ratio: 1/16; Accredited by National Independent Private Schools Association, State of NM. A Blue Ribbon School. Sunset Mesa School is a nonsectarian, private school for preschool, Pre-K, kindergarten, and elementary school-aged children through grade 5. In Preschool, parents have the option of an Early Childhood program or a Montessori program, in addition to a variety of schedules. At our elementary school, Sunset Mesa has a longstanding reputation for academic excellence, fostering independent thinking, and applying foundational skills to real world problems. Our students also enjoy weekly enrichment classes in science, art, music, Spanish, technology, PE, and library; thus, broadening their experiences. For decades, our successful approach to learning, coupled with small class sizes, allows our teachers to know and differentiate for their students. Our students successfully strive to achieve high standards in math, novel studies and writing. Sunset Mesa students are encouraged and challenged daily to become creative, responsible, and caring people by learning in an environment where values such as mutual respect, compassion, and ethical behavior are modeled. Give your child a soaring start at Sunset Mesa School! To learn more, please call 505-298-7626 to schedule a tour. UNM Children's Campus, 1210 University Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87102, Phone: 505277-3365; Email: wecare@unm.edu or unmccenrollment@unm.edu; Website: childcare.unm.edu; Ages: 6 Weeks - 14 Years; Cost: Free to low-cost options for eligible UNM students, staff & faculty (see our website for tuition rates & eligibility info); Accredited by NAEYC Early Childhood Program. The UNM Children’s Campus is a licensed, five-star, nationally recognized program that provides the children of UNM’s students, staff, and faculty parents with a highquality early childhood experience. We are the only childcare provider on UNM’s Main and North Campuses and serve as a site for cutting-edge student and faculty research, observation, student teaching, and practicum for UNM and the community. Financial Aid; Before and After Care and Summer Camp options for children 5 to 14 years old. Youth Development Inc. Head Start, 3451 Candelaria Rd. NE, Ste. A, Abq, NM 87107. Phone: 505-212-7239; Email: epadilla@ydinm.org; Website: ydinm.org; Contact: Ernestine Padilla. Early Head Start/Head Start are 2 of the most successful federally funded childhood education programs ever created. They promote the school readiness of children ages 6 weeks-5 years from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development. YDI has more than 30 centers throughout New Mexico and is completely free.

New Mexico Kids!

November/December 2021

Academic Support Programs ABC Wellness, 324 Adams SE, Abq, NM 87108. Phone: 505-266-6039; Website: abcwellness.com; Contact: Mae Lynn Spahr, MA, Owner/Counselor. Ages: 18 months–adult. Mae Lynn Spahr, MA, provides a drug-free treatment alternative for children and adults who have ADD/ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, headache/migraine and chronic pain. Academy of Jewish Learning @ Congregation B'nai Israel, 4401 Indian School Rd. NE, Abq, NM 87110. Phone: 505-266-0155; Contact: Sarah Egelman, School Director; Email: cbi.abq.school@gmail.com; Website: bnaiisrael-nm.org. Grades: Pre-K-10th; Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings. The Academy of Jewish Learning offers innovative, creative, and thoughtful curriculum that fosters Jewish identity and celebrates our diverse community for students pre-K through 10th grade. From Hebrew language and liturgy, to Jewish history and ethics, to art and service learning, we provide engaging, fun, innovative, inquiry/project based small group learning along with traditional Jewish education in a welcoming and supportive setting. Classes will meet in person on Sunday mornings and virtually on Tuesday evenings for the 2021-22 school year. Financial aid available and enrollment is ongoing. Congregation B'nai Israel is New Mexico's only Conservative synagogue with over 100 years experience educating Jewish youth! Career Enrichment Center, 807 Mountain Rd. NE, Abq, NM 87102. Phone: 505247-3658; Email: arguelles@aps.edu; Website: cec.aps.edu; Contact: Patrick Arguelles, Principal. Grades: 9-12; Enrollment: 1,500; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:20; Cost: FREE; Accredited by: NMPED; APS; USEdDept. The Career Enrichment Center provides hands-on 21st century elective courses for APS HS, APS Charter and home-schooled students. We are teaching tomorrow's leaders: LPN nurses, EMTs, engineers, doctors, computer programmers, policemen, fire fighters, hair stylists, animators, architects, mechanics, film makers, entrepreneurs, researchers and more. We also have over 50 dual credit offerings, 8 World Languages, internships, apprenticeships and more! We provide FREE transportation from 18 APS high schools for all sessions of classes. Financial Aid; Enrichment programs: Dual Credit, AP, Advanced. CEC offers Education the way it should be: Rigor, Relevance, Family Engagement and Meaningful TeacherStudent Relationships. Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd. NW, Abq, NM 87104. Phone: 505-224-8341; Website: explora.us; Contact: Reservations Manager. All ages. Scholarships. Explora offers educational enrichment programs for children, families, teachers, schools, and community organizations, and serves tens of thousands of students annually. Educators trained in inquiry-based learning offer programs that foster a joy of learning by encouraging curiosity, building critical thinking skills, and taking a deep dive into science, engineering, and technology. These include: Growing a Scientist™ for children Ages 2 1/2 to 5 together with their adult companion(s); Science to Grow On™ for Grades K-3 (parent participation is encouraged); Engineering Investigators for Grades 3-5, Maker Lab for Grades 2-6 and Teen Tech Club for teens using Explora's new Studio Inventivo Makerspace; Home School Exploration Series for Grades K-8. Other programs that enrich learning include Winter, Spring and Summer Camps for Grades PreK-teens, Single day "School's Out" Camps" during APS days off for Grades K-5, and Birthday Parties with science activities for Ages 2 and up. We also offer professional development for teachers and early childhood providers. Some of these include a Continuing Education Certificate for 2 competency hours. ExplorAbilities, 5006 Copper NE, Abq, NM 87108. Phone: 505-268-7988; Email: info@ExplorAbilitiesTherapy.com; Website: ExplorAbilitiesTherapy.com. Ages: 0-99. ExplorAbilities is a leading rehab center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Started nearly 40 years ago, it has served a countless number of children with Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, and Physical Therapy. It is well known as a premier agency that works closely with the community and cares deeply about children with special needs. Counseling services have been added so that a full spectrum of services can be provided to clients. Huntington Learning Center, 8201 Golf Course Rd. NW, Ste. B-3, Abq, NM 87120. Phone: 505-797-3073; Contact: Sohale Mufti; Website: huntingtonlearning.com. Grades: K-12; Days/Hours: Monday to Saturday. Year after year we continue to offer children, ages 5-17, supplemental instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, study skills, phonics and related areas, as well as SAT/ACT test preparation. The positive encouragement of our staff and certified teachers, combined with individualized instruction based on our diagnostic testing, is what we believe sets us apart and continues to make our program a success.

Albuquerque Rio Grande Learning Solutions Beyond Tutoring! 10401 Montgomery Parkway NE, Abq, NM, 87111. Phone: 505-321-4486; Email: riograndelearningsolutions@gmail.com; Website: riograndelearningsolutions.com; Contact: Melanie Overbay, Owner/Facilitator; Grades: K-12; Ages: 6-99; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/1. Beyond tutoring! Helping with difficulties in reading, math, focus, attention, handwriting, organization, and more! Empowering individuals to take ownership of their learning by using their own unique strengths to do so. Rio Grande Learning Solutions, LLC, 10401 Montgomery Parkway NE, Abq, NM, 87111. Phone: 505-321-4486; Contact: Melanie Overbay, Owner/Facilitator; Email: riograndelearningsolutions@gmail.com; Website: riograndelearningsolutions.com; Grades: K-12; Ages: 6-99; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/1. The mission of Rio Grande Learning Solutions is to provide clients with highly effective, lifechanging tools, which enable each individual client to understand his/her learning style and take ownership and responsibility for correcting their learning difficulties. Facilitated one-to-one in a fun and supportive setting, clients leave with life-changing skills, such as Focusing techniques, Self-regulation tools and Reading exercises that eliminate guessing and promote comprehension. We work with individuals with and without a diagnosis in Dyslexia, ADHD/ADD, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Executive Functioning & Autism. Tutor-Me, 5528 Eubank NE, Ste. 6, Abq, NM 87111. Phone: 505-307-4170; Contact: Sandra Akkad, Founder. Website: mytutorme.com. Daily Covid-safe live in-house sessions. Ongoing online tutoring. Focusing on K-12. Homework Help and Enrichment in All Math: Algebra I & II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus, Chemistry, Biology. Tutor-Me is a premier learning center that offers a hands-on approach when helping students. We stimulate & motivate while enriching and helping our students. Tutor-Me provides a safe, conducive, and nurturing environment. We offer classes in all Math, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Phonics, English, Science, standardized testing, PSAT, ACT, SAT and more. We also have classes in Spanish, French and Arabic. We offer a free trial. Check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/mytutorme. Information for this directory comes from the advertisers and does not constitute an endorsement by New Mexico Kids!

Albuquerque Congregation Albert Early Childhood Center

Albuquerque

Creating joyful learners from 2 years of age through kindergarten since 1982 FREE membership to Congregation Albert for ECC families

A 5 Star Accredited School

Learn. Play. Grow.

All faiths and families welcome We are COVID safe, and happily OPEN for in person learning

3800 Louisiana Boulevard NE/www.congregationalbert.org/505.883.0306

November/December 2021

New Mexico Kids!

CHRISTUS ST. VINCENT PRIMARY CARE

Keep Them Healthy At CHRISTUS St. Vincent, we are always committed to providing the best and safest health care to you and your family. From routine check-ups or vaccinations to acute illnesses – we are always ready to care for you and your loved ones. Visit us in one of our ﬁve conveniently located Primary Care locations. Adult & Family Care Accepting Virtual Visits Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors 465 St. Michael’s Dr. Suite 230 Santa Fe, NM 87505

Family Medicine Center Accepting Virtual Visits Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors 2025 Galisteo St. Santa Fe, NM 87505

Arroyo Chamiso Pediatrics Accepting Virtual Visits Offering Pediatric Care for newborns through18 years of age 465 St. Michael’s Dr., Suite 200 Santa Fe, NM 87505

Pojoaque Primary Care Accepting Virtual Visits Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors 5 Petroglyph Circle, Suite A Pojoaque, New Mexico 87506 .

Entrada Contenta Health Center Accepting Virtual Visits Offering Pediatrics, Family Medicine, and Urgent Care 5501 Herrera Dr. Santa Fe, NM 87507

Call (505) 913-DOCS (3627) to schedule your primary care appointment today. We accept most health insurance plans. A mask is a must at all CHRISTUS St. Vincent facilities

New Mexico Kids! November December 2021

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New Mexico Kids! Annual Holiday Gift Guide

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