RM Parent January 2017 by RM Publishing

JANUARY 2017 • RMPARENT.COM

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JANUARY 2017

Departments PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

The full month—resolve to be mindful

FIRST YEARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Boost their brains with free play—set them up and let them go

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Take the plunge—indoor pools help keep kids active

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12 The art of the fold—fashion some amazing origami creations

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 NoCo values health and recreation—exercise for cancer patients, trail reports, Horsetooth Reservoir, Weld County Health Department

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . 16

Support for your childbirth—doulas provide emotional, physical and educational support

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 4 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Moment of doubt—pause before judging

Special Sections YOUTH PROGRAM & ACTIVITY GUIDE PLUS, SCHOOL DIRECTORY

Program & Activity YOuth

January 2017 • rmparent

Guide

.com

Program DIRECTORY

School

BY CATEGORY • PAGE 24 ALPHABETICAL • PAGE 26

CALENDARS PAGE 44

•••••••••••••

List of

ADVERTISERS PAGE 46

•••••••••••••

OOL

BACK-TO-SCH

TES UPDA PAGE 10

Find the right school for your child. Explore the options: neighborhood, charter, specialized programs, nontraditional, independent and more. Also learn about school-of-choice policies in your district.

Features BEING MINDFUL 18 Mindfulness is much deeper than simply

paying attention to one thing at a time. Mindfulness helps you choose your response to what’s happening around you, rather than simply reacting to it. Self-regulation leads to many other benefits, including feeling centered and calm. Infuse these simple habits into your interactions with your kids.

School District News Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Bond Family Foundation awards teachers, Shawsheen gets donation for playground, BOE changes meeting time

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 PSD calendar of events, FCHS Shark Tank competition, FCHS students help build playground and community garden, social and cognitive development

Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Hour of Code program, Family Connect Night, Truscott 5th-graders visit CSU, MLK committee visits classrooms, United Way donors visit Coyote Ridge, Erwin’s MESArcSTEM

Lunchbox. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

20 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU! Revelers ringing in a new year often signal

that it’s time for improvement and change. Perhaps you want to lose those extra pounds, kick an unhealthy habit, work less and play more. Half of Americans make resolutions each year, but only eight percent keep them. What sabotages our ability to follow?

ABOUT THE COVER: Eva, who is 7 months old, likes to smile, adores her brother and is fascinated by her dogs. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, courtesy of Sky's Open Design.

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•

perspective The full month Resolve to be mindful

anuary is a full month…gyms are full, yoga studios are full, meditation-centers are full and runners are out from dawn ‘til dusk. And I’m right in there with them scheduling my yoga classes and my daily mediation and figuring out when I can run. I switch from meat to fish, from comfort foods to veggies and off I go. I haven’t made a formal New Years resolution to do this or that, but every year I do feel compelled to get back at it…eating well, exercising, corking the wine bottle a little earlier in the evening. So I’m not sure if it’s about resolutions or just a natural urge to regain a routine after the pattern-interrupt that is Thanksgiving through New Years Day. Even though I don’t sit down with pen and paper, I definitely plan. This is a nice stable time from January 1 through spring break to establish new habits and routines. And, though they tend to be hard to hold as the year goes on, some of them stick and with others we move the needle a little bit. In her feature story, Kim Sharpe has some great ideas about how to make resolutions for the New Year that are realistic and, therefore, more likely to last. One skill we can train in that can help us with whatever we’re doing (that’s sounds pretty big, I know) is mindfulness. Lynn U. Nichols, in her feature story, dives into the topic about how being mindful can help you and your children maintain focus, pay attention and learn to notice your own thoughts and emotions. We tend to live in a very speedy and distracted world, running from one thing to the next without a break. And when we do have a spare minute, we pull out our distraction devices and see if anyone has messaged us or played their turn at Words With Friends or posted something on Facebook. A friend of mine is a high school teacher with 6 classes a day. She begins her classes with a few minutes of mindful meditation, something to calm everyone down, get them oriented to being in her classroom and ready to focus. She told me that some of her more challenging students are the ones who like those moments the best and even take some mindful moments on their own away from the classroom. It takes some practice once we decide that we are going to pay attention to our lives. We have to very consciously and consistently bring our minds back to where we are as we learn to pay attention. It takes vigilance to not rush through every day with our bodies in one place and our minds somewhere else. So try it out. Next time you have a spare minute and you’re reaching for a distraction, just stop and enjoy the moment. Look around. Listen. Take a deep breath. You’ll be amazed at what you notice! Cheers to a calm and happy 2017, Scott

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JANUARY 2017 • Volume 21, Issue 8 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CALENDAR EDITOR Kim Sharpe calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Sharon Klahn, Debbie Lee, Rob Martin, Susan Pettit, Nikolai Poppen-Chambers COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Lynn U. Nichols, Kim Sharpe

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2016 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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as we grow

Boost their brains with free play Set them up and let them go

LY NN U. NICHOLS

ven though cold weather is keeping the kids inside more than usual, activities don’t need to be limited. There’s a lot of creative, fun play to be had whether it’s building forts, making movies, putting on plays or doing arts and crafts. It may take a little more organization—and tolerance of messes—but the results of free play not only keep your kids occupied but also enhance their brains. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends kids get 60 minutes of unstructured, free play every day because it’s good for building strong minds. Studies on elementary kids show imaginary play is a large part of brain development. Kids who are allowed ample opportunities for unstructured play learn self-reliance, how to negotiate relationships outside of a structured setting, and how to think critically and problem solve. As a parent, your job is simply setting them up with the materials they need, giving some practical guidelines and possibly making a suggestion to get them rolling. Remember, free play is open-ended and child led. Here are some ideas to help them get started: FILL A BIN WITH DRESS UP CLOTHES Let their imaginations run wild with dress up clothes for all kinds of storytelling. Let your kids create an episode of a favorite show or practice writing a script and acting out their own stories. Assist by being the videographer. Throw in lots of hats, scarves, canes, coats, shoes, ties, gaudy jewelry and cheap lipstick. Keep the bin on hand and if possible within sight to spark interest. Coordinate turn-taking and set limits on actions, like aggression, if needed. CREATE A MAKESHIFT ART STUDIO If you can, dedicate a table or desk area where your kids can do arts and crafts— 8

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or simply be willing to clear your kitchen table when inspiration strikes. Gather art supplies from glue and colored paper to all types of paints, crayons, colored pencils, markers, chalk, poster paper and brushes. Don’t forget ribbons, sequins, yarn, buttons and cloth. Feel free to guide their artists’ minds by offering up ideas of different craft projects yet stay open to them coloring the sky green or the trees pink. FOSTER CAREER DAY FUN Kids love to mimic adult life. After all, it’s how they learn about how the world works. Encourage creative play with props for a restaurant, veterinary clinic, doctor’s office, store, carpentry shop or classroom. Stuffed animals can be gathered for check ups with a toy stethoscope, real bandages, and popsicle sticks and tape for splinting. Customers can order food and pay at the register while cooks work in the kitchen. MAKING TIME FOR FREE PLAY While structured interaction teaches certain skills, free play helps develop well-rounded skills involving not just mental reasoning, but social and

emotional abilities as well. Playing is a child’s job, so do your best to make sure there’s time for it every day. Kids who lack the chances for unstructured, imaginative play, are less happy and well adjusted when they become adults. Free play enhances how kids interact socially, solve problems and cope with stress. There’s so much you can do in your daily life to feed your young child’s brain. You don’t have to pack their schedules or sign up for expensive classes. Consider limiting outside activities so they have plenty of time at home to let their imaginations reign. One trick to fitting free play into a busy schedule, especially with little ones who need a lot of supervision, is creating opportunities to play where you are. If you are making dinner set up a mini kitchen in the corner with pots, pans and plastic food so your child can cook, too. If you are talking on the phone give her a toy cell phone so she can imitate. When your phone rings she can answer hers, too. Set your kids up for free play. The benefits are well worth the occasional moments of chaos and the mess of cleaning up.

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family activities

Take the plunge

Indoor pools help keep kids active KATIE HARRIS

olorado in January equals bored and restless kids. For indoor exercise and entertainment to please all ages, look no further than an indoor swimming pool. Locally there are several options to keep a trip to the pool new and exciting all winter long. First on the list, Windsor has a brand new indoor pool, open just in time for winter. The Community Recreation Center Pool, located at 250 N. 11th St. features an interactive kids pool with a slide, lazy river, and zero-depth entry, along with a lap pool. To take advantage of all the kid-friendly features, visit between 10am-8pm Monday through Friday, 8am-7pm on Saturday, and noon-5pm on Sunday. Daily admission is $5/ adult and $4/child. More information can be found online at windsorgov. com/1062/CRC-Pool. The city of Loveland operates the Hatfield Chilson Center pool, located at 700 E. 4th St. In addition to a lap pool, the recreation center offers a zero-depth entry childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interactive area, lazy river, and speed slide. Open swim is from 10am-9pm Monday through Friday, 10am-5:30pm on Saturday, and 11am-5:30pm on Sunday. Admission is $4.75/adult and $3.25/child. Children under the age of 6 must be accompanied by an adult in the water. Visit www.ci.loveland.co.us/ departments/parks-recreation/ chilson-recreation-center/swimmingpools for more information. At 1501 65th Ave. in Greeley, the Family FunPlex features Adventure Island, with multiple slides, a dumping water bucket, lazy river, and other interactive features. The pool has a zero-depth entry area as well as lap lanes. Open swim is available Monday and 10

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Wednesday from 3:30-8pm, Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30-5pm, Friday from 3:30-9pm, Saturday from 11am-7pm, and Sunday from 11:30am-6pm. Adult day passes cost $5.50 and kids cost $4.50. Children 5 and under must be accompanied in the water by an adult. Details are online at greeleygov.com/activities/ recreation/programs/aquatics. The Greeley Recreation Center Pool at 651 10th Ave. offers a lap pool with diving board and a separate shallow area. The pool is available for open swim Saturdays from 1-4pm. Cost is $5.00/adult and $3.75/child. Children 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the water. Visit greeleygov.com/ activities/recreation/programs/aquatics for details. Fort Collinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Edora Pool and Ice Center (EPIC), located at 1801 Riverside Ave. features a large lap pool

with diving boards along with warm water and wading pools. The pool is open Monday through Friday from 5:30am-8pm, Saturday from 8am6pm, and Sunday from noon-5:30pm. Single visit admission is $4/adult and $3.25/child. For details go to www. fcgov.com/recreation/epic.php. Also in Fort Collins at 424 W. Mulberry St., the Mulberry Pool features an interactive kids play area with slides, water features, and zerodepth entry, along with a lap pool and diving board. The pool is open Monday through Thursday from 5:30am-4pm, Friday from 5:30am-8pm, Saturday from 12:30-5:30pm, and Sunday from noon-3pm. Cost is $4/adult and $3.25/child. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult in the water. For more information visit www.fcgov.com/recreation/ mulberrypool.php.

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learn and live

The art of the fold

Fashion some amazing origami creations KIM SHARPE

Learn to fold Origami classes often are held at local libraries. Check library calendars for upcoming classes: Estes Valley Library www.estesvalleylibrary.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF JANET DEAN

High Plains Libraries www.mylibrary.us

hat gentle art to confine By plane of paper—folded line. What magic here to capture me. In infinite variety. —Author unknown Origami is an art form available to people of all ages, abilities, anywhere, at any time. And it doesn’t require special equipment or a lot of money. There’s no cutting, gluing or marking involved when making “models” origami style. Janet Dean, who often teaches origami at the Loveland Public Library, says, “Origami can be one of the least expensive of all arts, requiring only a square piece of paper. It can be made with printer paper, trash paper or very expensive gold-embossed paper. A tool called a bone folder can aid in pressing crisp creases, but it is optional; a tongue depressor works well, too. The primary tool is one’s hands.” The simple action of folding paper 12

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provides relaxation and teaches patience, both reflective of values and characteristics of the art form’s country of origin—Japan. Dean, who worked with students with orthopedic impairments for over 31 years, used origami in her instruction because the art form also “…improves fine motor control, hand-eye coordination, and is a cognitive exercise in problem solving.” Origami makes for a fun family activity, too. Kids can participate from an early age. “Children and adults who enjoy origami usually have the ability to focus on an activity while sitting for a given length of time,” Dean says. “I gear the models I teach to the age of folders and their ability to attend, follow directions, etc. There is no particular age when this happens, it is more the child’s interest that dictates whether or not they will enjoy it.” Perhaps the best part of origami is it’s “wow” factor. Dean says it’s magical for participants to take a six-inch square

Loveland Public Library www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org Poudre River Public Libraries www.poudrelibraries.org For online patterns and instruction, visit: www.HappyFolding.com www.OrigamiSpirit.com www.OrigamiUSA.org

of paper and watch it transform into a beautiful creation. Actually, that’s one of the things she loves best about teaching origami. “I love giving workshop attendees, both children and adults, the feeling of accomplishment and of creating something beautiful.”

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community news

NoCo values health and recreation Exercise for cancer patients, trail reports, and more KIM SHARPE

Front Row Left to Right: Cliff Buchholz, Dr. Steven Schuster, Linda Smith, Kevin Unger Middle Row Left to Right: JoAnn Lovins, Erica Siemers, Casey Thomas Back Row Left to Right: Lindsay Randall, Jolene Dolan

s the new year begins, residents and visitors to northern Colorado have many new ways to be healthy and enjoy the great outdoors. CANCER PATIENTS OFFERED GYM MEMBERSHIP, WORKOUT SUPPORT Studies have shown that engaging in exercise is very beneficial for those undergoing cancer treatments. Physical activity can keep muscles from atrophying, boost blood flow and strengthen cardiovascular health, as well as improve mental factors such as self-esteem and social interaction. That’s why Miramont Lifestyle Fitness, a community-oriented and premier fitness center in northern Colorado, is offering free memberships to cancer patients and a workout buddy for six months through its Cancer Wellness Program. There is no date range for the complimentary membership program; 14

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cancer patients may sign up at any time. “Miramont has devoted a great amount of time and energy to fighting against cancer in our community,” says Miramont Owner Cliff Buchholz. “We have the utmost respect for local cancer patients and want to encourage them in all possible ways.” In addition to its Cancer Wellness Program, Miramont has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the UCHealth Cancer Center and nonsmoking lung cancer research at The University of Colorado Cancer Center through its Colorado Moves to End Cancer program. The program has included a spin-a-thon, cocktail party, yoga activities and many more events that have gathered the community in support of local cancer fighters. In 2016 alone, the program raised $82,000 total. For more information, call 970-2821000 or visit www.miramontlifestyle.com.

NOCO TRAIL REPORTS EASY TO ACCESS Have you ever geared up for a hike and traveled all the way to a trailhead only to find it closed for mud or trail work? Have you ever tried to check ahead, but found it difficult because you have to go to multiple websites to get an accurate report? The frustration of an unexpected or unknown trail closure can now be avoided by checking www.NoCoTrailReport. org, which covers trails managed by Larimer County Natural Resources, City of Fort Collins Parks and City of Fort Collins Natural Areas. The interactive map at www.NoCoTrailReport.org uses red, yellow and green color coding to indicate when trails in Larimer County are closed, useable with caution and open. Click on a section of trail to get details explaining the closures and cautions. The site can be “pinned to your home screen” on a phone or tablet to act like an app. For an iPhone, launch the Safari app, connect to www.NoCoTrail Report.org, tap on the “Share” button and tap on “Add to home screen.” For phones that use the Android operating system,

create a bookmark to the URL by opening www.NoCoTrailReport.org, tap the menu button and add the page to your bookmarks. Open your bookmarks list using the menu button and find the new bookmark you just added. Press down and hold on the bookmark until you see a menu, then tap “add to home screen.” NoCo Trail Report is a collaboration between City of Fort Collins and Larimer County to provide comprehensive and official trail information for some of the most loved trails in the area. HORSETOOTH RESERVOIR IS NO. 3 ON LIST OF AMERICA’S BEST LAKES Horsetooth Reservoir took third place on a list of America’s Best Lakes published by the popular social media platform Foursquare. Foursquare allows users to virtually “check in” at locations via their mobile devices and provide reviews and rankings of these places. Horsetooth Reservoir has received a score of 9.5 out of 10. This score puts Horsetooth Reservoir third on Foursquare’s list of America’s Best Lakes, behind only Lake Harriet in Minneapolis, Minn., and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in New York, N.Y., which both scored 9.6. (Horsetooth Reservoir has since earned a score of 9.6 since the list of America’s Best Lakes was first published earlier this year.) “Placing third on this list is an indication that visitors really enjoy Horsetooth Reservoir,” says Gary Buffington, Larimer County Department of

Natural Resources director. “Our staff works hard to provide visitors with fun, safe experiences at Horsetooth, and this ranking is further affirmation that we’re doing just that.” Foursquare users who have visited Horsetooth Reservoir have provided glowing reviews of the water body, such as “Fishing is good and the cabin rentals are nice” and “Absolutely beautiful! Make sure to take a drive around the north side of the reservoir for more serene scenes!” The list of America’s Best Lakes can be viewed at https://foursquare.com/ foursquare/list/americas-best-lakes. WELD COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT RECEIVES NATIONAL ACCREDITATION The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) recently achieved national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). The national accreditation program works to improve and protect the health of the public by advancing and transforming the quality and performance of the local public health departments. The Weld County Health Department is one of fewer than 200 health departments nationally that have thus far achieved accreditation through PHAB since the organization launched in 2011. The Weld County Health Department is only the fourth local health department to become accredited in Colorado. “We are pleased and excited to be recognized for achieving national stan-

dards that foster effectiveness and promote continuous quality improvement,” says Mark E. Wallace, WCDPHE director. “The accreditation process helps to ensure that the programs and services we provide are as responsive as possible to the needs of our community. With accreditation, the health department is demonstrating increased accountability and credibility to the public, funders, elected officials and partner organizations with which we work.” To receive accreditation, a health department must undergo a rigorous, multi-faceted, peer-reviewed assessment process to ensure it meets or exceeds a set of quality standards and measures. “Whenever you see our seal of accreditation, you will know that the Weld County Health Department has been rigorously examined and meets or exceeds national standards that promote continuous quality improvement for public health,” says Eric Aakko, health department spokesperson and accreditation coordinator. “By continuing to improve our services and performance, we can be sure we are meeting the public health needs of those we serve as effectively as possible.” The Weld County Health Department provides a range of services, from immunizations to birth and death certificates, to restaurant food safety, to air and water quality monitoring, to youth drug use prevention, and disease outbreak investigations and response. For more visit www.weldhealth.org. RMPARENT

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healthy living

Support for your childbirth

Doulas provide emotional, physical and educational support LEA HANSON

ntil recently people tended to associate having a doula as a part of your childbirth experience to be outside of the norm. But, that sentiment is changing quickly and this once-considered-alternative approach to childbirth is being seen as more and more normal. WHAT IS A DOULA? First, a doula does not deliver your baby. A doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides emotional, physical, and educational support to a mother who is expecting, is experiencing labor, or has recently given birth. The doula’s purpose is to help women have a safe, memorable, and empowering birthing experience. The goal of a doula is to help the mother experience a positive and safe birth, whether an un-medicated birth or a cesarean. After the birth, many labor doulas will spend time helping mothers begin the breastfeeding process and encouraging bonding between the new baby and other family members. A doula acts as an advocate for the mother, encouraging and helping her fulfill specific desires she might have for her birth. Whether this includes assisting with relaxation techniques, reassuring the mother through a long and painful labor, or simply providing the constant support a laboring woman needs. We know today that with the support of a doula, women are less likely to have pain-relief medications administered and less likely to have a cesarean birth. Women also reported having a more positive childbirth experience. THE FOURTH TRIMESTER Most often, the term doula refers to the birth doula, or labor support companion. However, there are also

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antepartum doulas and postpartum doulas. Most of the following information relates to the labor doula. One local professional doula, Julianne Curtis (www.juliannecurtis.com), says this about postpartum (or as she refers to it: “the fourth trimester”), “The fourth trimester will likely be one of the most challenging times of your life. The more prepared the new parents are the best chance for a smoother transition to parenthood.” Curtis says, “The fourth trimester is a where your old life intersects with your new life. This clearly doesn’t happen overnight. The first several weeks of the fourth trimester are crucial. It’s a time where mom’s body needs to rest, heal, and recover.” During the resting and healing stage, new parents are also getting to know their new baby (or babies) as well as learning and getting used to a slew of new responsibilities. Curtis says, “This time is difficult for

many because they are discovering their new baby while often simultaneously maintaining all the demands of their regular lives.” This is a lot of change for new parents and a postpartum doula can be just the support they need to get through it. FINDING A DOULA In some ways, finding a good doula is as simple as shopping around. It’s essential to find the right fit; the person you select will be with you during some of the most vulnerable and intimate moments in your life. Finding someone you feel comfortable with and someone whom you trust is essential. The Northern Colorado Doula Association (www. nocodoulas.com) is a good place to start if you’re thinking about having doula support for your upcoming childbirth experience. Almost any doula will be happy to meet with you to learn about her practice and establish a fit.

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Being mindful Learning to focus helps you to be in control

Lynn U. Nichols

ou’ve heard the term mindfulness, but do you know what it really means? Mindfulness helps you choose your response to what’s happening around you, rather than simply reacting to it. To understand, imagine yourself as a kayaker and the river as your life. Mindfulness lets you decide which current you want to ride or which eddy to rest in rather than letting the strongest current take you wherever it’s headed. As you can imagine, having the ability to stay mindful is not only self-empowering, but a vital skill in achieving success. Self-regulation—or the ability to steer your own boat—leads to many other benefits, including feeling centered and calm. To model mindfulness, infuse these simple habits into your interactions with your kids. PAYING ATTENTION “A common definition of mindfulness is paying attention to one thing at a time, without judgment. But that demands 18

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knowing how to pay attention in the first place, which can be a difficult skill for kids to master. I like to start by helping kids notice when they are not paying attention,” says Judith Norman, MA, MS, LPC, RPT, licensed professional and school counselor and certified synergetic play therapist. In her work with kids in northern Colorado schools, Norman teaches this pre-skill of mindfulness by ringing a bell. Kids are told to put their thumb up when their attention drifts away from the sound of the bell. In other words, they make a motion to indicate they’ve lost focus, and to remind themselves to once again listen to the bell. “The awareness that you are no longer focusing on the bell is mindfulness,” she states. She tells how parents and teachers say, ‘Pay attention’ to their kids, but if a child doesn’t know how to focus on just one thing and block out the rest of the noise in the room or in his head,

that can’t happen. Using a body cue, like putting up a thumb or raising a hand while reading when they stop paying attention, reminds kids to focus back on the task at hand. Noticing when your mind starts wandering is a great skill to have not only in the classroom but also at home. Paying attention strengthens relationships as it helps us really listen to what someone is saying. One study reported by www.mindfulschools.org found that people who had mindfulness training could not only show others more compassion than those without training, but they could also show themselves more compassion—hence the calming effect. Studies also show that mindfulness reduces stress and improves anxiety. Strengthen your child’s ability to be mindful by making it a game and playing it during different times, like in the car or at a restaurant waiting for food. For example, while driving say, ‘Let’s just focus with our eyes, and when

we forget and start listening to the radio or thinking about something else like the day ahead, let’s make a peace sign.’ Remind your kids there is no right or wrong way to do it, and if they lose focus quickly that’s okay. Mindfulness is a practice, after all. By playing with it, you are helping them learn how to steer their own boat. MINDFULNESS IN SCHOOLS Mindfulness is now being used in both the Poudre School District in Fort Collins and the Thompson Valley School District in Loveland. Norman has taught several mindfulness programs, including In Focus and Mind Up to teachers and administrators. “In Focus is great because it integrates neuroscience and helps kids learn how to calm down their brainstems, among other skills. It’s encouraging to see so many schools interested in mindfulness. That was not the case even five years ago,” she adds. She explains that we use our brains from the bottom up—from the brain stem, which regulates basic functions, to the cerebrum, which helps us generate higher level, more complex thoughts. It’s much easier to focus when we have access to our whole brain, and mindfulness helps us open ourselves to that. When our brains are deregulated, we often get stuck in the lower regions of our brain, making it harder to think and concentrate. EXPRESS WHAT YOU ARE FEELING Staying mindful helps us regulate our emotions. It’s not just mind over matter—mindfulness literally creates neurological changes in our brains that help us to be less reactive and enhance our ability to manage our emotions. Norman thinks parents have been steered wrong by the advice to not express negative emotions in front of our kids. She believes by holding things back we are sending our kids the message that it’s not okay to have certain feelings. “In my opinion, the biggest gift you can give your children is to be authentic. When you are truly yourself you send a

Want help learning mindfulness?

Classes, websites and books on mindfulness for you and your children.

Classes

Braindrops Play Therapy & Wellness 209 E. Plum, Fort Collins • braindropsplaytherapy.com • (970) 818-0882 Judith Norman offers parenting classes, family support and mindfulness training. Combines neuro-biology, psychology, physiology and movement.

Web resources

Synergetic Play Therapy On-line Parenting Series: Managing Your Child’s Moods and Behaviors Lisa Dion, presenter • braindropsplaytherapy.com Teaching Heart Institute Improving Social and Emotional Intelligence, One Day at a Time teachingheartinstitute.com

Books

No Drama Discipline: The Whole-Brain Way to Calm the Chaos and Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind, By Dan Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson Growing Up Mindful: Essential Practices to Help Children, Teens, and Families Find Balance, Calm, and Resilience, by Christopher Willard Mindful Movements: Ten Exercises for Well-Being (Children’s book) by Thich Nhat Hanh, Wietske Vriezen

consistent message, where your nonverbal cues match your words. By doing so, you give your children permission to be wholly themselves as well,” she says. Norman advocates that parents honestly express their feelings in the moment. She gives the example of standing in a long line and feeling frustrated. Rather than trying to hold it in, she suggests describing what’s happening in your body and saying how you feel. “By recognizing what’s happening for you and expressing it both verbally and physically you are modeling for them not only what it feels like to experience that emotion, but how to express it in a healthy way. Don’t be surprised if you see your child mimicking you the next time they have that emotion,” she adds. This doesn’t mean you have free reign to explode when you are angry. If kids see you stomp around and yell they immediately think they did something wrong. Rather, if they hear you say you are angry and see you rub your legs or

shake your shoulders they see it as you soothing yourself and managing your anger. Your kids will learn that it doesn’t have to be scary when mom or dad is mad. They can see that it’s okay to get mad and that anger can be expressed without feeling threatening to someone else. The opposite happens when you hold it in and don’t say anything, leaving the vibe hanging in the room. “When nothing is said your kids’ bodies download your tense feelings into their nervous systems. It’s the way we work. Our energy impacts those around us on a physiological level, there’s no way around it,” Norman says. When feelings are really intense, it’s best to name your feelings of being overwhelmed and the need to take care of yourself, leaving the room to gain composure if necessary. Yet in most situations when you feel yourself having a physiological reaction to an experience or emotion, say so and show how to move through it. “That’s mindfulness,” says Norman. RMPARENT

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Following through on your resolve to make changes

New year, KIM SHARPE

new T

he sounds of revelers ringing in a new year often signal that it’s time for improvement and change. Perhaps you want to lose those extra pounds, kick an unhealthy habit, work less and play more. Research indicates about half of Americans make resolutions each year, but only eight percent keep them, according to the University of Scranton. Once we resolve to change, what exactly sabotages our ability to follow through and keep those New Year promises? “As complex and multifaceted as the answer to this query may be, one way or another it all boils down to self-discipline,” says Joseph J. Luciani, a clinical psychologist and author of the international bestselling Self-Coaching series, in a column written for U.S. News & World Report. “Essentially, you build self-discipline by willfully enduring the transient discomfort of changing who and what you

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are. You’re not born with self-discipline; you acquire it. Like a muscle, you need to develop your self-discipline muscle, one challenge at a time. Starting today, instead of reflexively feeling a need to minimize or escape the friction involved in change, recognize instead the need to endure it. Bottom line: Don’t bail!” Here are more ways to make and achieve goals in the New Year, useful for parents and kids, alike:

1. GET REAL

When it comes to setting goals, be realistic. If you’ve never run a step, successfully running a marathon this spring isn’t likely to happen. But running one in the fall may be doable, with proper coaching and consistent training. Set goals that align with something you want to accomplish and give your-

surprised at how quickly you can squirrel away a nice nest egg by making small contributions to it often.

3. WRITE IT DOWN

In a study conducted by psychology professor Gail Matthews at Dominican University in California found that people who wrote out their goals accomplished significantly more than those who did not. Her research proved that physically putting pen to paper and writing out goals helps people achieve them. The physical act of putting goals in writing and seeing them in writing makes them more real, more tangible and helps you feel more committed to them. Why? The answer has something to do with the neuropsychology. “When we write something down, research suggests that as far as our brain is concerned, it’s as if we were doing that thing,” says Dustin Wax of Lifehack.org. “Writing seems to act as a kind of mini-rehearsal for doing. I’ve written…about how visualizing doing something can ‘trick’ the brain into thinking it’s actually doing it, and writing something down seems to use enough of the brain to trigger this effect.”

you!

self a reasonable timeframe. Map it out in detail and increments.

2. BABY STEPS

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. The same principle applies to keeping resolutions. The way to accomplish goals is to have a plan that incorporates small steps toward the prize. For example, if want to save a lot of money in the next year, break it down to a weekly sum or an amount to set aside every payday. A smaller dollar amount will seem much more affordable than focusing on the large end goal. You’ll be

4. ENLIST HELP

The Dominican University study also confirmed that if you tell someone your goals, you’re more apt to follow through. Matthews found that more than 70 percent of the participants in her study who sent weekly updates to a friend reported successful goal achievement (completely accomplished their goal or were more than half way there), compared to 35 percent of those who

kept their goals to themselves. Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, says, “Accountability breeds response-ability.” So, tell a trusted friend or family member what you want to achieve and ask them to help keep you accountable. You’ll be less likely to backslide or bail all together.

5. CELEBRATE PROGRESS

When you work hard toward meeting a goal, you deserve some kudos along the way. As you make progress, do something special for yourself, but make sure your reward doesn’t sabotage your desired end result. For example, if you want to lose 20 pounds, don’t binge on donuts after losing five of them; that would be counterproductive. Rather, do something like take a candle-lit bubble bath or buy a new smaller-size garment. It’s all about feeling good about what you accomplish.

6. PERSEVERE WITH FLEXIBILITY

No one’s perfect and making changes is hard. There will be times when you act in a way that’s counter to your intentions. If that happens, get back on the wagon and keep on keeping on. It’s also okay to reconsider and modify your intentions. Let’s use that marathon as an example again. If you get deep into training and find that running more than 10 miles at a time begins to take a toll on your knees, back off. Perhaps completing a 10k race is enough for now.

7. ENJOY THE JOURNEY

Motivation guru Zig Ziglar, says “What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.” The process of change can be full of adventure and discovery. Allow yourself to experience all of that and offer yourself some grace when it feels difficult. Basically, the journey toward keeping your resolutions is just as important as actually meeting them. Journey on.

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greeley-evans district 6 news Bond Family Foundation awards for teachers a check for $7,000 to go toward its playground project. Pastor Michael Matthews said after the failure of ballot issue 3A, parishioners wanted to show their support for their partner school. Many gave the amount in annual additional taxes they would have paid if 3A had passed. The mill levy override ballot issue would have provided District 6 with an additional $12 million annually in tax revenues.

The Bond Family Foundation is offering the second annual Bond Creative Elementary Science Awards to educators in Greeley and Evans. This year’s award partners a team of District 6 K-6 grade teachers with University of Northern Colorado secondary science Teacher Candidates to develop and deliver two hand-on, mind-on science lessons in the teacher’s classrooms. Elementary teachers will lead the design of the lessons, while Teacher Candidates will help with the detail work, assemble materials and assist in delivering the lesson. To extend the reach of this partnership, the work and instructional planning of teachers and Teacher Candidates will be captured in a kit that includes the lesson and enough materials to teach a class of 30 students. These kits will be shared with the same grade level teachers within the district. Two teams will be selected to win this award. The total of the two awards is $7,500. Up to $500 of the award will be given to the participating teachers for their personal use. Another $250 will be donated to the school. The rest of the award will be used to support the lesson supplies. 24

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Applications for this award are located at www.surveymonkey.com/ r/2017Bond. All applications must be submitted by January 31, 2017. SHAWSHEEN ELEMENTARY GETS DONATION FOR PLAYGROUND Christmas came a little early at Shawsheen Elementary School on Wednesday, December 14. St. Patrick’s Presbyterian Church, which has partnered for years with the school to mentor students through Kids Hope and given through other donations, presented Shawsheen with

DISTRICT 6 BOARD OF EDUCATION CHANGES MEETING TIME Beginning at its first meeting of 2017, the District 6 Board of Education will move the start time of its regular business meetings from 7pm to 6pm. The Board will continue holding its regular work session meetings prior to general board meetings at 4pm. The earlier start time is meant to help accommodate staff who need to attend Board meetings, but have a lag time between the end of their work day and the beginning of the meetings. The Board of Education meets the second and fourth Mondays of each month, unless otherwise announced. The meetings are held in the Board Room at the District 6 Administration Building 1025 9th Avenue. For more information, visit www. greeleyschools.org.

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poudre school district news High school entrepreneurs pitch ideas

Customized pens. Exercise equipment that generates electricity. Portable car panels that protect from hail. Those were just a few of the inventions high school entrepreneurs pitched to local businessmen during the Fort Collins High School Shark Tank event. The innovation challenge encouraged students from across the district to pitch their best business idea to judges and listening peers, in hopes of winning $1,000 of seed money. “It was pretty nerve-wracking, because the judges are all successful in their field, and I haven’t gotten there yet,” says Emma Patti, who conceptualized a software that would turn a teacher’s lesson plan into a song. “I practiced my presentation a lot — in front of my dogs, in front of the mirror, in front of my family, in front of the wall.” Seven students made it to the final round, explaining their ideas under a single spotlight in a darkened auditorium. The judges provided recommendations on potential audiences for each student’s product, suggested markets to avoid or pursue, and pressed for details about each company’s projected financials. 26

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Student Daniel Scher shared his plan to expand his existing business of making and selling custom wooden pens with the judges. With four years of business experience already under his belt, Scher says he enjoys getting to know other business-oriented teenagers

during the competition. “I like being around other entrepreneurial people,” he explains. The winning pitch came from Preston Henning, who found inspiration while learning to drive. “I recently got my learner’s permit, and I realized how hard it is to see cyclists when you’re driving,” he explains. “I’m a cyclist myself, so I also understand the fear of being hit or not being able to cross an intersection.” His solution was a pair of cycling gloves with integrated LED lights that signal with bright orange and yellow arrows which way a cyclist will be turning. Now with $1,000 to invest, he’ll be able to turn his prototype into a new product line. “Our goal was to show all the competitors that their ideas are good, and that age doesn’t matter for being an entrepreneur,” says Liz Ann Moddelmog, one of the DECA student organizers. This year, students were also paired up with a community mentor who helped them to develop their business plans and pitches for the competition.

PSD Calendar of Events January 2-6 ..... No school K-12 January 9.......... No school 6-12 January 16........ No school K-12 January 17........ 6 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting, JSSC, 2407 Laporte Ave. January 31........ 6 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting, JSSC, 2407 Laporte Ave.

FCHS STUDENTS WORK WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS TO BUILD On a warm, breezy day in November, each of the three McGraw Elementary kindergarten classes trotted out into the sunshine for Outdoor Learning time. Inspired by “forest kindergartens” — a popular concept in Europe, that allows kindergartners to spend 100 percent of their school day outside — the teachers are incorporating designated Outdoor Learning time into each day. Rather than simply take normal class activities outside, the teachers redesigned their lesson plans to actively incorporate nature. One group sat on the grass in front of the school, reading a storybook and practicing self-expression by painting rocks and adding a thick coat of shellac on top. Another class was just around the corner, working on a math lesson on the pavement with sticks, dice, and sidewalk chalk. “Being outside is a natural fit for differentiated instruction, because every kid can access what our learning target is,” teacher Rachel Advani says. Outside, kids are free to chatter, mingle, and use their movement to inform their learning. For example, if a few students finish an activity early, they have the space to get up and run around to vent their energy while the rest of the class wraps up. “There aren’t the behavior problems like when we’re inside. They’re excited and engaged in every single moment,” teacher Jennifer DeMaret says. Behind the building, the third kindergarten class reenacted the First Thanksgiving in the school’s Outdoor Learning space. Dressed as Native Americans, Pilgrims, and wild animals,

the students taught each other how to hunt and fish, and cooked a lavish meal over the imaginary fire. “What are you guys putting on the fire?” DeMaret asks as the Native Americans led a student dressed like a turkey over to the cooking area. “A dead animal,” they say, giggling together as the captured turkey flashed a wide grin. Though it may appear a little chaotic, unstructured play is one of the fundamental building blocks children use to develop social skills and problem solving. In fact, a recent study by psychologists at the University of Colorado found that kids who spent more time in unstructured outdoor play had better executive function, a cognitive control process tied to later academic and personal success. While many other district activities — like gardening at school, Eco Week, and bike to school days encourage outdoor activity, McGraw is unique in incorporating daily outdoor

learning into their schedule. “Kids don’t get as much outdoor time as they did in the past,” DeMaret says. “But it’s their natural place to be. We all let loose a little bit outside.” In fact, children spend about half as much time outdoors as they did 20 years ago, according to the National Wildlife Foundation. However, children who do play outside are more physically active, exhibit more creativity in their play, and demonstrate better concentration skills. “There’s a lot of research to show that this engages all kids,” Advani says. “And we see that — they’re 100 percent engaged when we’re outside,” teacher Kim Krenning adds. The teachers also schedule at least three field trips to the CSU Environmental Learning Center each year, so that the kids can have more free exploration time in an ungroomed natural area. “Outdoor learning is connected to the units and standards, and it helps kids to tie what they’re learning into the broader scope of the world,” Advani says. RMPARENT

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thompson school district news Students participate in global Hour of Code opportunity to learn more about the program from Coyote Ridge and Reading Corps staff and also had a chance to watch a live tutoring session in progress.

Last month, students in Thompson School District participated in the world-wide “Hour of Code” program. The Hour of Code started as a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to demystify “code,” to show that anybody can learn the basics and to broaden participation in the field of computer science. It has since become a worldwide effort to celebrate computer science, starting with one-hour coding activities and expanding to all sorts of community efforts worldwide. GARFIELD COMMUNITY HOSTS FAMILY CONNECT NIGHT Last month, the Garfield Elementary School community hosted its “Lights, Camera, Action!” Family Connect Night. Special guest storyteller Kathy Leonard shared her wonderful gift of “weaving a tale” with the crowd. Research consistently shows that spending time reading with a child is one of the best and most important things that one can do to benefit their development. The goal of the very successful evening was to help foster and encourage a love of literacy both at home and at school. UNITED WAY DONORS VISIT COYOTE RIDGE Coyote Ridge Elementary, an IB World 28

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School, hosted a donor visit for the United Way of Larimer County. The United Way of Larimer County supports the Colorado Reading Corps program in all TSD elementary schools. Colorado Reading Corps is an extremely valuable program through which each school receives a trained Reading Corps tutor for 40 hours per week. These tutors work one-on-one with students for 30-minutes each day to help them increase their reading skills and fluency. The United Way donors had an

LUCILE ERWIN PROGRAM GETS ATTENTION The students of Lucile Erwin Middle School’s “MESArc STEM” program are getting some much-deserved attention on a grand scale! MESArc stands for “Math, Engineering, Science and Achievement Remote Control.” Evolving over the years, the MESArc program has become a proven STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) outlet for middle and high school students. The program involves the use of the International Baccalaureate Design Cycle to design, create and evaluate scratch-build remote control ground and air vehicles while adhering to STEM content and associated standards. The team was recently challenged by a company to design a new line of jets for their community. The students answered the call and completely surpassed all of the expectations that they had been given. A video detailing the students’ work is hosted on the district’s website: www.thompsonschools. org/videos-programs.

MLK COMMITTEE VISITS CLASSROOMS The Loveland Martin Luther King Jr. committee recently visited over fifteen classrooms district-wide to talk about several issues and to spark inspiration for this year’s MLK Day theme: “Make Real the Promises of Democracy.” The committee sponsored an art contest for district elementary, middle school and high school students. The top-three winners will be honored during the Martin Luther King Day community celebration on Monday, January 16. TRUSCOTT 5TH-GRADERS VISIT CSU Utilizing a grant from the Thompson Education Foundation, a group of Truscott Elementary School 5th-grade students visited Colorado State University last month. The day included a tour of the recreation center, living center and a dorm room, a first-generation college question-and-answer panel, lunch in the cafeteria, a poster signing and play-time with the student athletes. It was an incredible experience for everyone involved.

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lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary student lunches are $2.55, secondary student lunches are $2.80 and reduced lunches are PK-5 free, grades 6-12 $0.40. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 9 Chicken patty sandwich; potato bar w/chili 10 Chicken Alfedo; chicken bites & roll 11 Thai chicken, fried rice; hamburger/ cheeseburger 12 Beef tacos & cilantro lime rice; mac n’cheese 13 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza; veggie wrap 16 No School! 17 Cheese ravioli; turkey gravy & roll 18 Teriyaki chicken w/rice; trout treasures

19 Chicken drumstick & roll; chili w/ cinnamon roll 20 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; Mediterranean pasta salad 23 Pizza burger; mac n’cheese 24 Beef lasagna; deli hot ham & cheese 25 Asian noodles w/chicken; Pig in a blanket 26 Chicken tacos & cilantro lime rice; chicken patty sandwich 27 Meat lovers or cheese pizza; chicken Caesar wrap 30 Meatball sub; chicken nuggets

31 Cheese calzone dipper w/marinara; spaghetti & meat sauce MIDDLE SCHOOLS 10 Spaghetti & meatballs; cheese ravioli 11 Asian bar—Teriyaki chicken/beef & egg roll 12 Beef & bean burrito bar, cilantro lime rice 13 Chicken nuggets; mac n’cheese 16 No school! 17 Beef lasagna; chicken nuggets 18 Asian bar—orange chicken/beef & egg roll

19 Beef & chicken taco bar 20 Turkey gravy & roll; chicken drumstick & roll 23 Toasted cheese sandwich & tomato soup; chicken nuggets 24 Baked ziti pasta; meatball sub 25 Asian bar—Thai chili, chicken/beef & egg roll 26 Beef & bean burrito bar 27 Pig in a blanket; chili & cinnamon roll 30 Tortilla soup bar 31 Cheese calzone dipper w/marinara; penne & meat sauce

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are PK-5 free, grades 6-12 $0.40. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 9 Bosco sticks w/marinara sauce; PBJ dipper basket 10 Burrito grande; chicken tender salad 11 Mac n’cheese; chef salad w/roll 12 Sweet ‘n sour chicken w/rice; Caesar salad w/roll 13 Fish & chip basket; garden salad w/ goldfish 16 No school! 17 Chicken quesadilla; chicken tender salad 18 Meatball sub; chef salad w/roll

19 Pancakes & sausage; Caesar salad w/roll 20 Pizza; garden entrée salad w/goldfish 23 Pizza stick; PBJ dipper basket 24 Soft tacos; chicken tender salad 25 Chicken Alfredo pasta; chef salad w/roll 26 Turkey w/mashed potatoes and gravy; Caesar salad w/roll 27 BBQ sandwich; garden entrée salad 30 Chicken breast nuggets; PBJ dipper basket 31 Nachos w/cheese; chicken tender salad

MIDDLE SCHOOLS 9 Bosco sticks w/marinara sauce; PBJ dipper basket 10 Burrito grande; chicken tender salad 11 Mac n’cheese; chef salad w/roll 12 Sweet ‘n sour chicken w/rice; Caesar salad w/roll 13 Fish & chip basket; garden salad w/ goldfish 16 No school! 17 Chicken quesadilla; chicken tender salad 18 Meatball sub; chef salad w/roll

19 Dominos pizza; Caesar salad w/roll 20 Pizza; garden entrée salad w/goldfish 23 Pizza stick; PBJ dipper basket 24 Soft tacos; chicken tender salad 25 Chicken Alfredo pasta; chef salad w/roll 26 Turkey w/mashed potatoes and gravy; Caesar salad w/roll 27 BBQ sandwich; garden entrée salad 30 Chicken breast nuggets; PBJ dipper basket 31 Nachos w/cheese; chicken tender salad

GREELEY DISTRICT 6— Elementary lunches are $2.55, and middle school lunches are $2.80, reduced-price lunches are K-2 free, 3-8 $.40. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 4 Hamburger/cheeseburger; PBJ 5 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; turkey & cheese hoagie 6 Hawaiian or cheese pizza 9 Mac n’cheese w/dinner roll; American beef hoagie 10 Soft shell taco; chicken salad sandwich 11 Chicken gumbo w/green chili; PBJ 12 Bean & cheese burrito w/green chili; ham & cheese wrap 13 Green chili or cheese pizza; PBJ 16 No school! 17 Cheese enchiladas w/fiesta rice; chicken fajita wrap

18 Shepherd’s pie w/dinner roll; PBJ 19 Baked ziti w/breadstick; turkey & cheese hoagie 20 Cheese or pepperoni pizza; PBJ 23 Cheese ravioli w/red sauce & breadstick; American beef hoagie 24 Chili w/cinnamon roll; Pesto chicken salad wrap 25 Hamburger/cheeseburger; PBJ 26 Hearty winter soup w/roll; ham & cheese wrap 27 Cheese or chicken, bacon, ranch pizza; PBJ 30 Breakfast for lunch; Italian sandwich 31 Herb chicken w/dinner roll; chicken fajita wrap

MIDDLE SCHOOL 4 Hamburger/cheeseburger; PBJ 5 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; turkey & cheese hoagie 6 Hawaiian or cheese pizza 9 Mac n’cheese w/dinner roll; American beef hoagie 10 Soft shell taco; chicken salad sandwich 11 Chicken gumbo w/green chili; PBJ 12 Bean & cheese burrito w/green chili; ham & cheese wrap 13 Green chili or cheese pizza; PBJ 16 No school! 17 Cheese enchiladas w/fiesta rice; chicken fajita wrap

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT—Price for elementary lunch is $2.75, for middle school students, $3. Reduced lunches are elementary, free; middle school, $0.40. 9 Chicken tenders; PBJ sandwich 10 Chicken flatbread taco; mini cheeseburgers 11 Pancakes w/sausage patties; corndog 12 Mini cheese ravioli w/breadstick; PBJ 13 Big Daddy’s cheese or veggie pizza; mini cheeseburgers 16 No lunch 17 Rotini w/meatballs; mini cheeseburgers 18 Madarin orange chicken; corn dog 19 Pork BBQ sandwich; PBJ

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20 Cheese breadstick w/marinara; PBJ 23 Grilled cheese sandwich w/tomato soup; PBJ 24 Chicken Alfredo; mini cheeseburgers 25 Chicken & black bean chili; corn dog 26 Hamburger; PBJ 27 No lunch 30 Mac n’cheese; PBJ 31 Hard shell beef taco; mini cheeseburgers SECONDARY SCHOOL 9 Chili dog; Domino’s cheese or pepperoni pizza

10 Chicken flatbread taco; Grilled chicken sandwich 11 Pancakes w/sausage patties; corndog 12 Chicken Tenders; popcorn chicken 13 Pepperoni calzone; corndog 16 No lunch 17 Rotini w/tomato sauce; chicken sandwich 18 Bean & cheese burrito; soft chicken tacos 19 Mandarin orange chicken; hot dog wrap

20 Meatball sub; Domino’s cheese or pepperoni pizza 23 Potato bar; Domino’s cheese or pepperoni pizza 24 Chicken Alfredo; grilled chicken sandwich 25 Chicken & black bean chili; turkey n’cheese flatbread 26 Cheeseburger; chicken sandwich 27 No lunch 30 Pasta bar; Domino’s pepperoni or cheese pizza 31 Beef tacos; grilled chicken sandwich

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January 2017 ONGOING Car Seat Distribution and Education Class Provides a new car seat and education on how to use it properly to families who otherwise cannot afford a seat. $30 donation requested. One car seat per family per year. Offered once in LV and twice in FC each month. Dates and time varies. 970-495-7508, www.sklarimer. org/car-seat-resources/. Se Habla Español. JANUARY 3-5 How I Learned to Juggle at My Library It all started with a book! Now, after many years of reading and practice, Ann Lincoln juggles everything from scarfs to bean bags to clubs to bowling balls. See her in action! Seating is limited. Jan. 3-Old Town Library, Jan. 4-Harmony Library, Jan. 5-Council Tree Library. 1010:45am and 11-11:45am each day. 970221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org. JANUARY 5-6 Find Your Voice: Take a Stand Antibullying Workshop This is a two-day workshop for middle school students. Free. Vineyard Church of the Rockies, Outback Room, 1201 Riverside Dr., FC. 8:30am-3:30pm. 970689-0226.

JANUARY 6 THROUGH FEBRUARY 18 Korean Embroidery: A Master of Tradition On display for the first time in the U.S.! The elaborate artwork and handicraft of Jungji Doh, who was recently bestowed the title of “Master in Korean Traditional Embroidery” by the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Global Village Museum of Arts and Culture, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. Times vary. Jan. 6 exhibit opening is 6-9pm; free admission. 970-221-4600, www. globalvillagemuseum.org. JANUARY 6 THROUGH JULY 30 Painting the World Beautiful Enjoy a panorama of breathtaking scenes from around the world. On display will be the exquisite works of three local artists: Don Vogl, Rosalie “Rosie” Sinnett, and Joe Flores. Global Village Museum of Arts and Culture, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. Times vary. Jan. 6 exhibit opening is 6-9pm; free admission. 970-221-4600, www. globalvillagemuseum.org.

JANUARY 12 THROUGH MARCH 12 Forever Plaid A funny, nostalgic romp that features some of the best pop songs from the 1950s. Ticket prices vary. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Dr., FC. Johnstown. Times vary. 970-7443747, www.coloradocandlelight.com. THROUGH JANUARY 31 Bike Winter Photo Contest Snap a photo with your bike, post to Facebook with #BikeWinterFC and celebrate year-long cycling. More details at www.fcgov.com/bikewinter. MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS, JANUARY 9-30 Read and Seed Preschool Program Fun stories and an educational, handson activity to help your child develop school readiness skills of early language comprehension and fine motor skills. Children with parent/caregiver. $3 per child; no charge for adults. 10am; repeated at 11am. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 970-4162486, www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Hours of Operation: M-Th 8-5pm, Fri 8-4 Fort Collins (970) 493-7442

Loveland (970) 493-7442

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TUESDAYS, JANUARY 17-31 The Magical Power of Sleep The UCHealth Sleep Lab will teach you how to get deep, restful sleep. Ages 18+. $15. Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., FC. 5:30-7pm. 970-221-6644, www. fcgov.com/health-wellness. TUESDAYS, JANUARY 24 THROUGH MARCH 14 Am I Hungry? Mindful Eating This multi-week series will help you take charge of your eating. Learn to eat healthy without depriving yourself. Offered by UCHealth. Ages 18+. $65. Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., FC. 5:30-7pm. 970-221-6644, www.fcgov. com/health-wellness. TUESDAYS THROUGH SATURDAYS, THROUGH FEBRUARY 18 Europe-Tales & Traditions Celebrate America’s European heritage. Includes a European Christmas Market exhibit complete with snow globes, nutcrackers, international Santas and gingerbread houses. $5 per adult; $3 for seniors/students; $1 for youth. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 11am-5pm. 970221-4600, www.globalvillagemuseum.org. WEDNESDAYS, BEGINNING JANUARY 11 Eat to Live, Not Live to Eat A registered dietician will help you eat healthy in the real world. Ages 18+. $20 for initial appointment; $10 follow up. Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., FC. 9am-12noon. By appt. only. 970-2216644, www.fcgov.com/health-wellness. WEDNESDAYS, JANUARY 18 THROUGH MARCH Stepping On Fall Prevention Workshop This class helps increase balance, reduce fall risk and maintain independence in a fun group setting. Ages 60+. $10 donation requested (for entire 7 weeks). Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 9:30-11:30am. 970495-8560, https://fallpreventionnoco. com/classes-and-events/

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS, JANUARY 6-28 Eagle Watches Bald eagles from northern states and Canada make Fort Collins their winter home where they spend nights in communal roosts in cottonwood trees. Join City of Fort Collins Master Naturalists to learn more and view these majestic birds. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, north side of Carpenter Road/CR 32, approximately one mile west of I-25, or two miles east of Timberline, FC. 3:30-5pm. www.fcgov.com/naturalareas.

JANUARY 2 LEGO A, B, C: Assemble, Build, Create Robot rumpus! Design your one-of-akind robot using LEGOs and try cool new tech toys. A family activity for ages 5+. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2pm. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. JANUARY 3 Teen Sphero Maze Madness Work in teams to program a Sphero (a robot ball) to navigate an original maze built by participants. This STEM challenge is fun, interactive, and requires creativity and teamwork. Grades 6-12. Registration required. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., Ste. 200, FC. 12:30pm. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. Magnet Magic Explore magnetic forces and even create your own bookmark using magnets. Grades K-2. Registration required. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 1pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. JANUARY 4 Teen Voices Wanted! Tell the Library What You Think. Sign up for this brainstorming group where you get to enjoy pizza and snacks while brainstorming and sharing your ideas. Grades 6-12. Registration required. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., Ste. 200, FC. 1pm. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events.

Wednesday Night at the Movies Join your library friends for a family movie (rated PG). Bring your own snacks and water bottle. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 6pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Harmony Book Group Join Blair Oliver of the Front Range Community College English faculty the first Wednesday of each month to discuss great books. For current book list, visit www.harmonybookgroup.org. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:15pm. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries. org/events. Duct Tape Battle Welcome the New Year with a sticky competition! Do things with duct tape that you’ve never done before! Ages 9+. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-686-5603, www. clearviewlibrary.org/calendar. JANUARY 5 iPad 101: Learn the Basics Learn how to change your settings, use Safari, more! You will need your Apple ID for this class. Teens and adults. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. Minecraft Mania Spend time with other kids playing Minecraft on the Poudre River Public Library District’s server, enjoy snacks, make a craft. Laptops provided. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 12noon and 2:30pm; please attend only one session. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. JANUARY 6 Minecraft Mania Spend time with other kids playing Minecraft on the Poudre River Public Library District’s server, enjoy snacks, make a craft. Laptops provided. Registration required. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Grades 1-2, 10am. Grades 6-12, 12noon. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events.

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Scrabble @ Your Library Players of all ability and experience levels are welcome. Scrabble boards will be provided or you can bring your own. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., Ste. 200, FC. 10am. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events. JANUARY 7 Research Rendezvous Open Labs National History Day participants! You’re invited to a drop in open lab for help with your projects, like finding primary sources and images for posters. Can’t make it to Open Lab? Contact Bethany at 970-506-8621 or blanphere@ highplains.us for individual assistance. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 10am-2pm. 888-861-7323, www. MyLibrary.us. Tablets, Smartphones, Ebooks, Audiobooks Movies and More! Learn how to download free apps so you can read, listen to and watch library materials anytime, anywhere. You need to have a smartphone or tablet such as an iPhone/iPad, Android tablet/phone, Samsung Nook or Kindle Fire and your library card number. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am. 970-2216740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events. Little Explorers: Animal Senses Discover how senses help animals to survive and meet their needs. The Denver Zoo will present this program and bring real zoo animals with them! Program is limited to the first 30 people; ages 3-6. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 10:30am. 888-861-7323, www. MyLibrary.us. Family Fun: Movie Afternoon Spend the afternoon at the library enjoying a family friendly movie. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 1pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Aladdin Enjoy this Missoula Children’s Theater production about famous Arabian Tales from Ali Baba to Scheherazade. Ticket prices vary. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 2pm & 7pm. 970356-5000, www.ucstars.com.

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JANUARY 8 Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Enjoy good books and the opportunity to read to friendly animals. Grades K-5. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., Ste. 200, FC. 3pm. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries. org/events. JANUARY 9 Food Fiesta Make a variety of yummy no bake snacks and goodies that you can take home! Ages 6-9. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 4-5pm. 970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org/calendar. Council Tree Book Club Read and discuss The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson. Adults. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., Ste. 200, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events. JANUARY 10 Body Art No, this isn’t about tattooing small children, but their handprints and footprints will be used to create art! Dress for a mess. Ages Birth-5. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS., 10:30-11:00am. 970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org/calendar. Money Matters: Need to Know Tax Info Gain valuable knowledge about preparing your own taxes, what questions to ask when choosing a certified tax preparer and how to find the local IRS-certified free tax prep program. Learn how to maximize your refund, get all available tax credits and wha’s new for this year’s returns. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Anime Club Gather after school to watch anime favorites, chat about manga, and munch on yummy snacks! Grades 6-12. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., Ste. 200, FC. 4pm. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events.

Bicycle Friendly Driver Learn how to safely navigate cities where bicycling is popular. 16+. Free. Summitview Church, 1601 W. Drake Rd., FC. 6:30-8pm. Register at www.fcgov. com/bikewinter. Afghanistan: What We Can Learn Learn about the academic journey of an Afghan graduate student and Fulbright Scholar. The presentation will feature topics such as education, economy, women and children, the country preand post-war, food, music, life, marriage, sport, and other social and cultural topics. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. JANUARY 11 Soups and Snacks for Winter Entertaining Join Dietician Mary Branom, from North Colorado Medical Center, as she shares some new soup and snack recipes for winter entertaining and the upcoming Super Bowl game! Registration required; ages 17+. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 5:30pm. 888-861-7323, www. MyLibrary.us. Rekindle the Classics: Canterbury Tales Rekindle your love of classic literature. Join graduate students and faculty in lively and informative discussions of literature favorites. January title: Selected Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, translated by Sheila Fisher. Wolverine Farm Letterpress and Publick House, 316 Willow St., FC. 6:30pm. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events. Saving and Budgeting Create a spending plan, track expenses, and learn more about financial tools and resources. 18+. Foothills Activity Center, 241 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-416-4280, www.fcgov.com/healthwellness. JANUARY 12 Chinese Spring Festival Enjoy a presentation about the Chinese Spring Festival. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6:30pm. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events.

JANUARY 13 Freaky Friday Take a trip back in time and play old video games with your friends (and some snacks!) Grades 6-12. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3:30pm. 970-2216740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events. JANUARY 14 Body Art No, this isn’t about tattooing small children, but their handprints and footprints will be used to create art! Dress for a mess. Ages Birth-5. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS., 10:30-11:00am. 970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org/calendar. Minecraft Mania Spend time with other kids playing Minecraft on the Poudre River Public Library District’s server, enjoy snacks, make a craft. Laptops provided. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Grades 1-2, 10am. Grades 3-5. 12noon. 970221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/ events. Family Fun: Families Matter Literacy activities for the whole family. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 1pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. JANUARY 16 Celebrate Peace Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. and his legacy of peace with a special program that will include books, songs and crafts. Grades K-5. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 2pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. DIY Splatter Shirts Come to the library to create your own unique book-themed splatter shirt! We will provide supplies, including one t-shirt per participant. Program is limited to the first 15 people (ages 12-17). Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 2pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

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Strumming in the Stacks We provide the guitars, you provide the talent. Come to Riverside Library to learn to play the guitar. This is a fiveweek session. No experience necessary. Grades 5-12; registration required. Space is limited to six students. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 3:30pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Old Town Library Book Club Join a discussion of Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7pm. 970221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/ events.

JANUARY 18 Mental Health First Aid Training Learn how to recognize and provide support for common mental health problems. Adults. Reservations required (email eleetham@healthdistrict.org); snacks provided. Free. Health District of Northern Larimer County, 120 Bristlecone Dr., FC. 8am-5pm. 970-494-4370, www. healthdistrict.org. Celebrate Peace Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. and his legacy of peace with a special program that will include books, songs and crafts. Grades K-5. Kersey Library, 413 1st St., K. 4pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Light Up the Night Got bike lights? Stay bright this season with free lights from FC Bikes. Drop in at EPIC, 1801 Riverside Ave., FC. 6-8:30pm. More details at www.fcgov. com/bikewinter.

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Cycling in Winter Learn tips and tricks to keep you encouraged to ride all year long. 14+. Free. EPIC, 1801 Riverside Ave., FC. 6:30-8pm. Register at www.fcgov.com/ bikewinter. JANUARY 19 Meet Author Carrie Vaughn Vaughn is a New York Times Bestselling author of close to 20 novels and over 70 short stories. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best known for the Kitty Norville urban fantasy series and the Harry and Marlowe steampunk short stories. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7pm. 970-484-7898, www. oldfirehousebooks.com. JANUARY 20 FC Rides: Winter Wonderland by Bike Join Bicycle Ambassadors for family friendly, slow-paced rides to highlight bike routes and new infrastructure. All ages. Location TBD. 4-5:15pm. Register online at www.fcgov.com/bikewinter.

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Signing with William Matson and the Edward Clown Family Meet author William Matson and the nearest living relatives to the Lakota war leader, Crazy Horse. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 5-6:30pm. 970-4847898, oldfirehousebooks.com JANUARY 21 Minecraft Mania Spend time with other kids playing Minecraft on the Poudre River Public Library District’s server, enjoy snacks, make a craft. Laptops provided. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 12noon and 2:30pm; please attend only one session. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. Family Fun: Puppet Playhouse Create a puppet and put on a show. Supplies provided. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 1pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. DIY Splatter Shirts Come to the library to create your own unique book-themed splatter shirt! We will provide supplies, including one t-shirt per participant. Program is limited to the first 15 people. Ages 12-17. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 2pm. 888-861-7323, www. MyLibrary.us. Chinese Spring Festival Celebrate the Lunar New Year the traditional Chinese way. Tickets are required and can be picked prior to the event at the Lincoln Center Box Office. The event is limited to 1,000 tickets. Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 3:30pm. 970-221-6730, www.lctix.com. JANUARY 22 Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Enjoy good books and the opportunity to read to friendly animals. Grades K-5. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 3pm. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org/events.

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JANUARY 23 Playing Music Grows Brains Dr. David Patton Barone will discuss research that shows engaging children in music is the best way to develop their brains. How do you get kids to practice? Should kids learn to play by ear and improvise? Come find out! Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. JANUARY 24 Elephant & Piggie Party in Severance Celebrate silly and wonderful friends, Elephant & Piggie! Ages 0-6. Severance Town Hall, 3 Timber Ridge Pkwy., Severance. 11:15-11:45am. 970686-5603. www.clearviewlibrary.org/ calendar/. Anime Club Teens gather together after school to watch anime favorites, chat about manga, and munch on yummy snacks! Grades 6-12. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 4pm. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. LEAP (Low-Income Energy Assistance Program) Are the rising costs of heat putting a strain on your budget? Learn how the LEAP program can help with your heating costs. Applications will be available. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740, www. PoudreLibraries.org/events. JANUARY 25 Kids Create: Art Inspired by Books Listen to a favorite children’s book, talk about the illustrations, then create your own masterpiece to take home! Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 6pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Go By Bike: Cycle Touring Basics Have you ever dreamed of traveling by bicycle, but weren’t quite sure where to start? Learn about bikes used for touring, panniers and trailers, camping equipment, clothing, training, bike-specific maps, more. Ages 13+. Registration required. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Annie The world’s best-loved musical comes to Greeley! Ticket prices vary. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7pm. 970-356-5000, www.ucstars.com. JANUARY 26 Afghanistan: What We Can Learn Learn about the academic journey of an Afghan graduate student and Fulbright Scholar. The presentation will feature education, economy, women and children, the country pre- and post-war, food, music, life, marriage, sport, other social and cultural topics, more! Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries. org/events. JANUARY 28 Interesting Reader Society (IRS) Meeting The IRS is the teen advisory group for the library. Members meet monthly to advise library decision makers, talk about books, plan and participate in library programs, more! Ages 13-18. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 11am-1pm. 970-221-6740, www. poudrelibraries.org. Family Fun: Open Mic Share a favorite book, poem, song, dance or story at this special open mic. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 1pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Book Talk and Signing with Benjamin Dancer Author Benjamin Dancer will discuss his eco-thriller Patriarch Run. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 970-484-7898, oldfirehousebooks.com

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time out Moment of doubt Pause before judging

KATIE HARRIS

ecently I came across a Facebook post from a friend, expressing hurt over a comment made by a fellow parent. Without going into detail, she wrote that the person’s words made her feel inadequate and unfit to parent. Having known this friend for years, and having watched her raise her children since they were infants, I knew better. In fact, a whole support team of friends knew better and said as much in the comments section of the post, showing her their support during a moment of doubt. This particular mom is much like most parents I know. Her unwavering love for her children and constant efforts to put their best interests first are traits that most of us consider cardinal rules for “good” parenting. Yet, despite our best intentions, we’ve all faced moments of doubt in our parenting journey. For some of us, it was that time when, frustrated by something completely unrelated, we lost our cool and snapped at our children, regretting it later. Maybe it was the time when we took our eyes off them for only a second, and that second was just enough time for them to knock off the vase they were eyeing off the shelf, drawing dirty looks from the other store customers. I clearly remember my moment of doubt. It was four years ago, when my daughter was 5. We were at the grocery store (always a good beginning to a horror story involving kids), and she was walking along beside me as I pushed the cart. Too big to fit in the cart seat, and too small to really pay attention and stay out of the way, she had reached the age that every parent dreads when it comes to shopping. We walked along, me intent on my list, she doing her best to stay close, her little head bobbing side to side as she curiously watched the other shoppers. We made it through the produce 42

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section and were rounding the corner for the deli when a woman, I’d guess in her 70s, cleared her throat and loudly berated my daughter, telling her to watch where she was going. She went on to tell me that my daughter had bumped into her on three different occasions since entering the store, and enough was enough. Looking back, I could have handled the situation better, but in the moment all I saw was my 5-year-old’s wide eyes melt into tears as she looked from the woman to me and back again. Raising my voice to the same level as the annoyed customer, I told her that my daughter was only 5, and asked how old she was. Then I suggested in a lessthan-kind voice that perhaps she should be the one to watch where she was going. She stared at me, speechless, for a moment then walked off. For the rest of the shopping trip and on the drive home I felt my anger give way to guilt as my moment of doubt settled in. My mama bear instincts had insisted on defending my

daughter, but had I really set a good example by returning bad manners with more bad manners? My conscience struggled, torn in two different directions and, like my friend, I turned to moms I trusted for advice. Their words reinforced what I already knew in my heart to be true. We aren’t perfect. We are parents. We love our kids. We screw up. We try our best. We make mistakes. We have moments of doubt. My hope is that, as imperfect parents, we work harder to lift each other up instead of passing judgment. We all have our good days and our bad, and when we see a fellow mom at her worst, we need to offer her what we can; a smile, a word of encouragement, a hand to help. Wherever you are, if you see another parent struggling, hit pause on the eye roll and think back to your last moment of doubt. Think about what you would have wanted other parents to think about you in that moment, and about what it would have meant to have another parent’s support. After all, it takes a village.

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