RMParent Magazine | March | 2023

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3 ways to eat healthy, fast

Every parent wants their kids to be healthy and strong so that they have the brainpower and energy they need to face the challenges of their days. The fastest way to good health is through healthy eating. If you don’t know where to start with creating a healthy diet for you and your kids–or you just need a refresher–try these quick tips.

Need some words here. What is special section?

ABOUT THE COVER

Cover kid Xander loves comic books, playing basketball, scouts, and 4-H. Photo shot by Cheri Schonfeld, courtesy of Sky's Open Design. www.skysopendesign.com

Ho Hos and nuggets and Dew, oh my

HERE’S A FUNNY TIDBIT: Two-thirds of calories consumed by children and adolescents in 2018 came from ultra-processed foods according to a peer-reviewed study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Think Cheetos, Ho Hos, Pepsi, Butterfingers, Wonder bread, Oreos, cakes, Lucky Charms, Campbell’s soups, chicken nuggets, sausages, and, well, you get the idea. It’s that so-called food that doesn’t really look like anything in nature, at least not anything that you would ID as food or it’s “food” that has a bunch of additives like some form of salt and sugar that change it, usually to make it more exciting for our tastebuds.

I didn’t really mean funny ha-ha on that tidbit. Let’s start with not ultra-processed food or as your grandparents called it—food. Take a carrot. Even with the greens cut off and scrubbed and stuck in a bag with other carrots (so some processing), it still pretty much looks like a carrot. Even those little carrots that are all smooth and rounded still pretty much look and taste like carrots.

So what’s the big deal? That ultra-processed stuff is really tasty, especially that frozen pizza we popped in the oven then washed down with some Mountain Dew when we’re all sitting there watching a movie together on a Friday night after a long week. In fact, let’s munch some Cheetos as the movie plays on. Mmmmm. Maybe some M&Ms for dessert. My mouth is watering already!

Except that it’s not really. I know that when I eat good food, I feel better. I have more energy. I think more clearly. I can run and jump and sing better. When I get into trouble is when I stop making choices, when I just eat what’s ever convenient and easy. I gained 12 pounds from November 1 last year until January 1, 2023. And why? Something quirked. Ice cream is on sale. Done. Big bag of chips looks good. Done. Seconds, thirds…done! Another glass of wine. Done.

Running got harder. Thinking got muddier. I felt groggier in the mornings. My joints hurt from inflammation. I had to nap every afternoon (which I kind of like anyway). It’s just so clear and yet, we tend to see what we want to see. I blamed it on “a bug” going around. I blamed it on not enough sleep.

Then in January, I turned the page to the other extreme and watched everything that I ate and drank. It didn’t take long until I felt my energy return and my body feel better. It was just so clear, but for me, at least, it’ not sustainable to live like a monk and so I’ve slowly been adding in the “stuff of life” because, at heart, I am a bon vivant and like to enjoy.

Please read Lynn U. Nichols story: 3 tips for eating healthy, fast. It will put you or keep you and your family on the road to healthy eating. As the old adage says, you are what you eat. And who wants to be a Vienna Sausage, after all.

Bon appetit, Scott

MARCH 2023 • Volume 26, Issue 10

PUBLISHER

Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

EDITOR

Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com

ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR

Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Susan Harting susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com

COVER PHOTO

Cheri Schonfeld courtesy of Sky's Open Design www.skysopendesign.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Lynn U. Nichols

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING

PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 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 constitute 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. ©2023 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNER:

Kids and hygiene

Personal hygiene is at the root of our overall heath. By taking care of your body in small ways every day, you can prevent many health conditions that are related to poor hygiene including dry, itchy skin or rashes; tooth decay; bacterial or fungal infections; and contracting common viruses including the flu and COVID-19.

Dental Health

THE BEST WAY TO PROTECT your child’s teeth is to teach him good dental habits. With the proper coaching he’ll quickly adopt good oral hygiene as a part of his daily routine. However, while he may be an enthusiastic participant, he won’t yet have the control or concentration to brush his teeth all by himself. You’ll need to supervise and help him so that the brush removes all the plaque—the soft, sticky, bacteria-containing deposits that accumulate on the teeth, causing tooth decay. Also, keep an eye out for areas of brown or white spots which might be signs of early decay.

As soon as your child has a tooth you should be helping her brush her teeth two times a day with a smear (size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste on a child-sized toothbrush that has soft bristles. There are brushes designed to address the different needs of children of all ages, ensuring that you can select a toothbrush that is appropriate for your child.

Handwashing

WASHING HANDS REGULARLY has become a part of most of our hourly routines as a result of COVID-19. But, we often still need to remind our kids of the practice. Handwashing can prevent one in three diarrhea-related sicknesses and one in five respiratory infections, such as a cold or the flu. Handwashing is an easy, cheap, and effective way to prevent the spread of germs and keep kids and adults healthy. Teaching children hand washing at an early

Stinky Adolescents

WHEN YOUR CHILD ENTERS puberty, everything changes. In addition to mood swings and menstruation, changes in hormones result in an increase in perspiration, which sometimes means an increase or change in your child’s body odor. That distinct smell you notice emanating from your tween is associated with adrenarche, which is the medical term for the body changes your tween is experiencing, including the adrenal glands becoming more active. In fact, sweating increases in tweens, especially in the underarm and groin areas, because their glands are maturing and being stimulated by hormones. The simplest remedies are the most effective—and least embarrassing. Showering regularly (some teens shower twice per day), staying on top of clothes washing, wearing deodorant, and paying special

and socks clean are the best ways to keep bad body

age is a good way to encourage a lifelong habit. Make your child feel good about hand washing by tying it to fun activities such as snack time and cleaning up from arts and crafts. Have your child practice counting or sing a song while they wash their hands, to make sure they do not rush. Soap or sanitizer that foams, changes color or smells good can be exciting for kids as well. One of the best ways to encourage your child to clean their hands is by washing your own.

Indoor recreation opportunities

ARCHERY OFFERS A FUN activity that develops physical and mental health and selfconfidence.

• Archery Depot, GR: archery range, lessons. www. archerydepotco.com

Archery & Axe Throwing

• Greeley Archers Club/Greeley Recreation, GR: indoor range at Greeley Recreation center, family-oriented opportunities and classes, etc. www.greeleyarchers.com

• Jax Outdoor Gear, FC: indoor archery range. www.jaxgoods.com

• Rocky Mountain Archery, FC: indoor archery range, bow rentals, mini/private lessons, birthday parties, ages 6+. www.rockymountainarcheryfc.com

A new trend has emerged with axe throwing available to the general public. It might seem crazy to introduce to your kids, but with proper training and supervision, it can be quite fun and requires coordination, technique and timing to hit the target.

• The Axe and Ale, FC: reservations required; birthday party options. www.theaxeandale.com

• Chipper’s Lanes Horsetooth, FC: axe throwing for all skill levels; reservations recommended; birthday parties. www.chipperslanes.com/locations/

Family Fun Centers

SEVERAL LOCAL BUSINESSES offer indoor entertainment for all ages. Celebrate a birthday or just enjoy family time and a meal or snack as all locations offer food and beverages.

• Chipper’s Lanes, EP, FC, GR: bowling, laser tag, arcade. www.chipperslanes.com

• Fly High Trampoline Park, FC: several trampoline options, foam pit and soft play playground. foco.flyhightrampolinepark.com

• Fort Fun, FC: laser tag, arcade, bumper cars, escape rooms (plus outdoors, mini-golf, go karts, giant slide, bumper/ paddle boats.) www.fortfun.biz

City Recreation Centers

LOOK TO YOUR CITY’S recreation or community centers for a variety of indoor sports/fitness options, ice skating, swimming pools with play features, waterslides, and lazy rivers, as well as classes and activities including art, cooking, dance and more.

• Estes Valley Community Center: Leisure and lap swimming, youth/adult sports and activities, fitness classes. www. colorado.gov/pacific/evrpd

• Fort Collins Recreation: Leisure and lap swimming, youth/adult sports and activities, fitness programs, etc. Indoor facilities include Northside Atzlan Community Center, Foothills Activity Center, Mulberry Pool and Edora Pool Ice Center (EPIC.) www.fcgov.com/recreation.

• Greeley Recreation: Indoor waterpark with play features, slides and lap swimming, climbing, ice skating, sports and youth enrichment programs. Facilities include Family FunPlex, Greeley Ice Haus, Greeley Recreation Center, Rodarte Community Center. https://greeleyrec.com

• Loveland Recreation: Pool with play features, slide and lazy river, sports, fitness and racquetball. Indoor facilities include Chilson Recreation Center. www.lovgov.org/services/parksrecreation/chilson-recreation-center

• Windsor Recreation: Pool with play features, lazy river, waterslide and lap swimming, fitness programs. www.recreationliveshere.com.

• Jumpin’, LV: inflatable bounce houses for ages 1-10. jumpinfun.com

• Loveland Laser Tag, LV: laser tag, ropes course, arcade, bumper cars, climbing wall, escape room, laser maze and more. www.laserfuncenter.com

• Rollerland Skate Center, FC: skating, laser maze, arcade and playground. rollerlandskatecenter.com

• The Summit, WS: bowling, laser tag, arcade. www.playatthesummit.com/windsor

• Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, FC: go-karts, climbing walls, ropes course, trampolines, playground, Sky Rider and more. www.urbanair.com/colorado-fort-collins.

Try some new hobbies

Hobbies are a great thing to have, especially for children. Hobbies help kids express their personalities and also learn new skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. We are all naturally gifted in certain areas and discovering those abilities and passions at a young age is empowering as well as fun.

Having a hobby also helps build confidence, make friends, and can improve mental health, and teach your child teambuilding, organizational, and problemsolving skills.

Remote Control Vehicles

Learn more and get started: Jackwagon R/C, 2102 9th Street, Greeley

www.jackwagonrc.com

Getting into remote control vehicles is a hobby kids can enjoy throughout their lives with increasing complexity. Learning the dexterity, upgrading and replacing parts, and becoming involved in building contests and races are all things R/C enthusiasts relish. While the hobby tends to be more expensive the more advanced your child becomes, there are many tangible benefits including being outside, teaching care and responsibility, fostering creativity, and it gets them curious about how things work.

Cross Stitch

Learn more and get started: Colorado Cross Stitcher, 4856 Innovation Dr., Ste A, Fort Collins

www.coloradocrossstitcher.com/

Cross stitch is a perfect introduction to sewing for kids. The stitches are relatively easy and while younger children will need more help, older ones can get on with more independence. Most kids have the dexterity to start learning this skill around the time they start school. Cross stitch is a “flow” activity and has been proven to improve cognitive, emotional, and social wellbeing. Research carried out by the Royal United Hospital Bath concluded that cross stitch has a neurochemical effect on the brain by decreasing stress hormones and increasing feel-good serotonin and dopamine.

Gardening

Learn more and get started: Gulley Greenhouse & Garden Center, 6029 S. Shields, Fort Collins

www.gulleygreenhouse.com/

Gardening is a great physical development activity for any age. Young children can practice locomotor skills, body management skills and object control skills while they move from one place to the other carrying tools, soil and water. Working together on your garden with your children is togetherness time. You build bonds with children and create memories from your experiences in the garden. While your children are learning a lifelong love of growing things, you are learning more about your children—how they think, what they like and dislike, and how capable they really are.

Thinking of Spring

An adventure-packed stay in Colorado Springs

YOU DON’T HAVE TO TRAVEL FAR to find a roadtrip-worthy adventure in Colorado. Enough activities to fill every minute of your long weekend await you just a couple hours south of Northern Colorado in the outdoorsy city of Colorado Springs!

Day 2:

Day 1:

Start your trip at the majestic Garden of the Gods, an admission-free, drivable park littered with scenic stops and hiking opportunities along the way. The Visitor and Nature Center at the entrance to the park opens at 9am and airs a short film throughout the day on the history of the geological features in the park. The center is also the place to pick up a trail map and check out interactive exhibits.

Afterwards, we recommend stopping at the first lot as you enter the park and hiking down to the Perkins Central Garden Trail for an up close look at the unusual red rock formations. You may want to pack a picnic and enjoy lunch among the “gods!” On your way out of the park, be sure to stop at Balanced Rock (you can’t miss it) for a photo op. The park is open from 5am-9pm daily. For more information visit www.gardenofgods.com.

but Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one you won’t want to miss. Built into the side of a mountain, the zoo offers unique opportunities for animal interaction, including giraffe and elephant feeding experiences, as well as a plethora of rides and play areas for kids. The zoo is open 9am-5pm daily, but please note that advanced tickets are required. Visit www. cmzoo.org for more information

science and hello history as you head to The National Museum of World War II Aviation. Take in the exhibits, tour the restoration facility next door, and try your hand at flying in the simulator. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am-5pm. For details visit

www.worldwariiaviation.org.

Day 3:

Cave of the Winds is more than just a cave, it’s an entire amusement park! Enjoy a ropes course climbing, zipline flying, climbing wall scaling, gemstone panning, axe throwing, adventure sliding kind of day (Out of breath yet? Us too!). Be sure to check height requirements for each activity before purchasing tickets. Oh yeah and be sure to save some time to visit the cave while you’re there (yes, there’s a cave). The Discovery Tour takes about 45 minutes and is a great fit for all ages, while the 90-minute Haunted Lantern Tour is appropriate for ages eight and up. To learn more visit www.caveofthewinds.com.

3 ways to eat healthy, fast

EVERY PARENT WANTS THEIR KIDS to be healthy and strong so that they have the brainpower and energy they need to face the challenges of their days. The fastest way to good health is through healthy eating.

“A healthy diet makes your child’s body more resilient,” says Kristy Hall, MS, ROHP, RNCP, functional nutritionist with Living Well Nutrition—The Center for Epigenetic Counseling in Loveland, Colorado.

Before we get started, let’s break down healthy eating. It’s non-processed meats, it’s fish, eggs, nuts and seeds. It’s not white bread, it’s whole grains such as whole oats and brown rice. It’s a variety of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables. That’s the goal.

“These kinds of foods nourish the body, support all systems including brain function, and reduce inflammation,” Hall says. “It’s the best way to fuel your kids so that they have all-day sustained energy and mental sharpness.”

If you don’t know where to start with creating a healthy diet for you and your kids – or you just need a refresher – try these quick tips.

1. Pick items that are close to nature

When grocery shopping, start in the produce aisle where foods are in their natural form. It’s real berries instead of the flavor of berries. It’s crunchy carrots and celery instead of chips. It’s the easiest way to get healthy, fast.

“Eat as close to nature as you can get. Every color of the rainbow should be represented in a healthy diet,” Hall says.

Let your kids pick out a new fruit or vegetable to try each time you shop together. If they pick it out, they are more apt to eat it.

Choose nutritional foods for growing kids

Soon, you get to start planning your garden or begin shopping at the nearby farmer’s market. Bring your kids along and talk with the farmers who grow the food; ask for suggestions on preparation.

Gardening is a great way to get kids to buy in to healthy foods. If you don’t have time for a full-fledged garden, consider planting a few vegetables that like to grow in pots, like cherry tomatoes, lettuce, kale, spinach, and peppers.

Lynn U Nichols

Let your young kids tend to the plants and harvest the riches. If you grow indoors, you don’t even have to wait for late spring!

cancer), preservatives like BHA and BHT and additives like artificial sweeteners and food coloring.

“It’s scary to look under

2. Read package labels

We all have to buy processed foods sometimes. When you have young kids, there’s not much time, especially on workdays, to meal plan and cook. Just be wise about what you buy. An easy tip when deciding whether or not you should buy a packaged food hinges on recognizing the ingredients, and seeing how many there are.

“If there are ingredients you can’t pronounce, don’t buy it. Also, if there are more than five ingredients listed, pass on it,” Hall says.

Sometimes a healthy packaged alternative costs a bit more, but nutrition wise, it’s worth it. When reading labels, avoid the worst of the worst.

The big offenders that affect your kids’ health are high fructose corn syrup, partially hydrogenated oils, sodium nitrates (found in processed meats and increases childhood

the hood, but that’s the only way to know what you’re putting into your kids’ bodies. Unless you read the labels you just won’t know,” Hall says.

Consider a healthier alternative to what you need, like rotisserie chicken for sandwiches versus packaged lunch meat or hot dogs. Or the reliable egg salad sandwich or tuna wrap instead of a snack pack.

3. Pack wholesome, easy lunches & snacks

When you are shopping in a mad rush, it’s easy to gravitate to foods packaged for kids, like individual chip bags and squeeze yogurts. But these items are often a salt or sugar bomb full of colorings and additives. Sure, your kids might eat it, but consider the real boost of energy they would get from a healthier choice.

By feeding your kids healthy snacks and lunches, you are avoiding toxins that lead to inflammation, which

leads to health problems. The simplest way to stay healthy is to eat well.

“A clean diet is one of the best, most effective ways to prevent disease and counteract the negative physical processes that unhealthy diets create,” Hall says.

When planning lunches or after school snacks, think dips. There are hundreds of dip recipe ideas to find and try. Get creative – dip whole grain crackers and veggies in guacamole, hummus or baba ghanoush. Also, consider nuts. They are packed with healthy fats and some protein for extra umph to get kids through the school days.

“One of the easiest clean foods to feed kids is fruit. An apple or banana with nut butter is a nutritious and easy lunch that most kids like,” Hall says. “Also, serve easy-toprepare vegetables, such as carrot sticks and sugar snap peas.”

Make food fun. And when packing lunches the night before, include your kids. If they make it, it will taste better.

Consider wraps instead of sandwiches. Start with a whole grain

tortilla and add fresh chicken, guacamole and tomato. Let your kids get wacky with snacks. Have them make themselves a veggie kabob with round fruits and vegetables, like olives, grapes, and cherry tomatoes. Pitas are a fun alternative that can be filled with healthy cheese and veggies. Or, bake whole grain fruit muffins together the night before and add one to their lunch bag. Finally, skip the juice or sugared drink and opt for flavored water instead.

“We want to create a slow burn with food, meaning that we want to maintain fairly consistent blood sugar levels so that kids have sustained energy. That’s high fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables and avoiding foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats,” Hall says.

The next time you head to the grocery store, try something new. If you keep these tips for healthy eating in mind, you are bound to make changes that give your kids the nutrition they need to fully engage in their daily lives.

NOCO KIDS SUMMER CAMP

Formerly Choice City Christian Camp

For Grades 1-6 • Camp runs concurrently through school summer break.

Activities Include:

MUSEUMS • FORT FUN • PUTT PUTT • TOURS • ARTS AND CRAFTS

MOVIES • BUMPER BOWLINGS • ROLLER SKATING • SWIMMING

A nondenominational Bible study begins each day

All tickets and admission fees are paid by the camp. The only items your child needs to bring every day are a lunch, water bottle, sunscreen and appropriate clothing or extras (such as swimsuits or towels).

Fully-licensed day camp for grades 1-6

Call Cat Colonna at: 970-786-9809

nocokidsacademy.com/summercamp cat@nocokidsacademy.com

The Dream Starts Here!

Offering gymnastics classes for ages 18 months to 18 years of age in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.

H H Bring in this ad and receive 2 free classes! H H — For new customers only —

• Beginner - Advanced Girls & Boys

• Kids Open Gyms

• Birthday Parties

• Preschool Classes

• Aerial & Parkour Classes

• Summer Camps

• Competitive Teams

• Tumbling Classes

970-663-3173 • Premiergymnastics.net 1410 East 11th Street • Loveland

More than 30 students graduate from GAP/NEXT

school winner, Tomas Rivera of Greeley West.

• Leader Among Leaders Elementary, Alison Ferguson, principal, Meeker Elementary; secondary, Heather Severt, assistant principal, Brentwood Middle

• Heart and Soul

Laurie Behring-Howard, transportation; Kimberlee Perales, school psychologist

the 2022 Bully Prevention Poster Contest, hosted by The ARC of Weld County.

This year’s winners are:

• Grand Prize

Kamyla Figueroa, a fourth-grader with the District 6 Online Academy

• Second Place

Hector Rascon, a fifth-grader from Billie Martinez

Elementary School

More than 30 students in the Greeley-Evans Alternative Program and Greeley

NEXT graduated during the program’s winter graduation.

GAP Principal Meredith Allen welcomed students and families to the Greeley West High School in the auditorium.

“As I look at this crowd, it is easy to see the Class of 2023 had a lot of support along the way,” Allen said. “Today is a day when you should hold your head higher and be so very proud of your accomplishments.”

Keynote speaker Jessica Cooney, assistant principal at Greeley Central High School, praised the graduates for their resiliency and perseverance.

“Your graduation today represents not only your hard work but also your ability to overcome obstacles, to stand strong in the face of adversity and to keep going even when everything and everyone around you is telling you that its ok to quit,” Cooney said.

Employees honored at success in 6 awards

Educators, support staff and administrators were honored for their contributions to Greeley-Evans School District 6 and the students they serve at the Success in 6 Awards held at the Aims Community College Welcome Center.

The awards ceremony is hosted annually by The Success Foundation Serving Greeley-Evans Schools.

Awards are given out in four categories. The Success Foundation also included a Choice Award this year, which was given out to an educator who has received an Innovative Learning Grant through the Foundation and has successfully shared the work the grant funded.

The winners of this year’s Success in 6 Awards are:

• Rookie of the Year Elementary school winner, Taylor Campos of Dos Rios Elementary; middle school winner, Marcus Johnson of Brentwood Middle; high

• Educator of the Year Elementary, Jenny Yeager, Madison Elementary; secondary, Courtney Flagg, Greeley Central

• Choice Award

Joanna Fedor, family and consumer science teacher, Northridge High School

Congratulations to all the winners, and all those who were nominated!

ARC Anti-bullying poster contest winners

Three Greeley-Evans School District 6 students were honored at the Board of Education meeting for winning

• Third Place

Jordyn Moreno, a second-grader from Ann K. Heiman

Elementary School

Each winner received a gift card, a donation to their school’s PBIS program, and will have their artwork featured on a variety of ARC publications, including its annual calendar.

There were more than 90 posters submitted for this year’s contest. The District 6 Council of Student Representatives chose the top 12, and the final winners were selected by the staff of The ARC of Weld County.

Bamford Elementary opens pantry for those in need

On Jan. 13, a crowd of students, families, staff and volunteers gathered in the Bamford Elementary School gym for the grand opening of the Gary Bamford Pack Pantry, a student-led community resource center dedicated to helping those in need by offering free clothes, shoes, toiletries and food.

Each grade level played an important part in this schoolwide project. Students researched which items to include in the pantry, contacted local businesses, and designed the pantry layout, website and posters, among other tasks, to make the project a reality. The grand opening was a culmination of all the students’ and volunteers’ hard work.

“Helping others is just something awesome, but

helping others in need, that’s another level,” said Brooks Howard, a student at Bamford. “We all work super-duper hard to make the Pack Pantry come to life, and everyone was so patient and empathetic with the process. In all I really don’t think the Pack Pantry would be here today helping people around our community if we didn’t work together.” For more information, to donate or to volunteer, email bamfordpackpantry@ gmail.com.

PSD awarded $1.56M grant to bolster mental health supports Poudre School District is proud to be among three school districts selected by the Colorado Department of Education to participate in a four-year, grantfunded initiative called

Project AWARE (Advancing Wellness and Resiliency in Education).

As a Project AWARE district, PSD will receive a total of $1.56 million to amplify mental health work that is already underway, as well as grow mental health programs and services. The initiative aligns with the district’s priority of mental health and increasing a sense of belonging for all students, which is a key goal of PSD’s forthcoming Strategic Plan.

“Our students have said, in no uncertain terms, that PSD and the community must be responsive to their mental health needs,” said Superintendent Brian Kingsley. “Children and young adults are struggling and wisely want to equip themselves with knowledge

and skills that support living physically and emotionally healthy lives. That is nothing short of honorable. And it requires collective action to address a complex and pervasive problem.”

PSD will submit a work plan outlining next steps by the end of May and update the plan annually thereafter. Over the four years, PSD will work closely with the CDE, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration, community-based providers of mental and behavioral health care services, school personnel, community organizations, families and school-aged children. Data and collaboration will play an important role in the plan and work moving forward.

Youth Crisis Response Team advocates for youth

For Larimer County Sheriff’s Deputy Brendan Solano and licensed clinical social worker Maryann Ramos Flynn, each day they spend working as co-responders in Thompson School District is unpredictable, but they all provide a unique opportunity to advocate for youth.

Providing support for the approximately 15,000 students in TSD requires the work of hundreds of staff members, including the collaboration of people with all different areas of expertise. TSD’s inaugural co-responder team is one of the best examples of how effective that cooperative work can be.

As a sheriff’s deputy, Brendan has worked in schools as a school

resource officer, and is trained in working with students who are struggling with mental health issues. Maryann works for SummitStone Health Partners, and has spent most of her career working with young people.

Since last November, Brendan and Maryann have been TSD’s first co-responder team, handling crisis situations in our schools. The two contract with the school district through a program designed to help students in need of mental health support. While Brendan is able to address the law enforcement aspects that sometimes arise with more serious incidents, Maryann provides support as a mental health professional.

“Our biggest success is to be advocates for students,” Maryann explains. “We are unique in that co-response is a relatively new program in Colorado. Kids have always deserved this service, and now TSD is a leader in saying how much they care about kids. They are addressing it by providing this service to their kids.”

In addition to providing schools with law enforcement support, Brendan and Maryann also respond to students in crisis and help provide families with care, including visiting families’ homes, and helping students and their families secure assistance through more community resources.

“Our primary focus isn’t the law enforcement–our SROs take care of that. We’re more focused on continuing care,” Brendan says.

Maryann agrees that the goal is to connect students to whatever help they need and assist families in best supporting their children.

“Our goal is to be able to have kids be in school safely and function at a healthy level so they can be productive members of society,” Maryann says. “That’s been my greatest joy of this job, getting information into families’ hands so they can continue to do the good work of caring for their family.

Colorado needs to support their youth.”

Ease into Spring with These TCM-Based Wellness Tips

By Dr. Erin Compton DACM, L.Ac.

Colorado sure has seen a cold and snowy winter season; but March is here and that means warm weather is just around the corner! The Vernal Equinox, which marks the first day of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere, falls on March 20th.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Spring is governed by the Wood element which embodies the energy of birth and new beginnings. As the trees begin to bud and the flowers start to bloom, many of us recognize a similar feeling of subtle expansion within our own bodies. In TCM, humans are not seen as separate from nature, but rather as an integral part of it. Therefore, as the seasons change, our lifestyles should also reflect that.

Here are a few tips for supporting your body during the transition:

• Eat your greens: Each season is associated with a color, and green is the color of Spring! This is a

good time to start incorporating leafy greens and other fresh produce into your diet. In general, foods that are lighter and cooler in nature are beneficial as we head into the warmer months. It is also helpful to reduce the intake of things that burden the Liver, such as alcohol and fatty or fried foods.

• Gently move and stretch your body: Inviting movement into your body through activities like walking, yoga, or Tai Chi is great for circulating the Qi and keeping the tendons healthy.

• Practice diaphragmatic breathing: Breathing is one of the best ways to cleanse the body of toxins. Take a few moments to practice inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth, allowing the ribcage and belly to rise and fall.

• Get some sunshine: As the days grow longer, it is the perfect time to get outside and soak up some

sun! Natural sunlight is important for maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm, and it helps our body create Vitamin D, which has several health benefits, such as strengthening the immune system and boosting the mood.

• Find healthy ways to release emotions: Try journaling, talking to friends, creating art, or whatever else allows you to express yourself and move through your feelings.

• And last but certainly not least… schedule yourself for some acupuncture! Whether you are looking for general support through the change of the season, or you have a more specific health concern, our team of practitioners at Traditional Chinese Medical Clinic in Fort Collins, CO, can help.

Dr. Erin Compton DACM, L.Ac.

Youth job fairs, healthy hearts and food tax rebates

Job fairs for teens and young adults

Larimer County Summer Employment Nights will take place 6:30–8pm on March 1 at Larimer County Administrative Services in Fort Collins and March 7 at Larimer County Loveland Campus in Loveland. Youth ages 14–18 and their parents will hear from a local employer panel about best job search practices; learn about summer jobs, paid internships, etc.; and meet the Larimer County Conservation Corps. Learn more at www.larimer.gov/ ewd/summer2023.

The Young Adult Job Fair for Greeley area youth ages 14-24 seeking parttime/seasonal positions takes place Wednesday, March 8 from 5pm to 7pm

at Island Grove Event Center in Greeley. Visit https:// greeleyrec.com/events or call 970-400-6715 to learn more. Pre-register at www. connectingcolorado.com or bring your Social Security number for quick registration. Fort Collins Parks and Recreation will host a hiring fair on April 21 at 2pm at Foothills Activity Center in Fort Collins. Attendees will visit with staff, learn about available opportunities, and can apply for positions in person. Visit www.fcgov. com/recreation/join-ourteam for more information.

Free family programs for healthy hearts

In addition to the Healthy Hearts and Minds program UCHealth provides in northern Colorado

schools, there is a free family program for ages 9 and older, including grandparents or other relatives, to help families improve cardiovascular health and wellness and sustain overall health. The free 12-month program begins with each participant receiving a baseline screening, their own Fitbit, and they register for other educational apps. Families attend a oneand-a-half-hour fun and interactive class for the following six weeks, with free childcare, and have access to individual or family nutrition, exercise and general wellness counseling from a health care professional throughout the 12 months. Follow-up screenings occur at three, six and 12 months. Learn more at www.uchealth.org/services/ community-health/healthyhearts/healthy-families.

Shelter coming to support “unaccompanied” Larimer County youth

Loveland City Council recently approved a proposal to build a 6,000-square-foot youth shelter to serve “unaccompanied” students in Thompson and Poudre schools. Under the McKinneyVento Act, a student is “unaccompanied” if they have no parent or legal guardian and are

considered homeless. The Monroe Early Childhood Center in Loveland will be the future home of the shelter and when completed in spring of 2024, it will serve 20 to 30 students aged 15 to 20, with overnight accommodations and drop-in day services, ranging from job training, to homework help, to mental health resources, though the full list of services is still being compiled.

Greeley food tax rebates for low-income households

Low-income households in Greeley that meet family-size and incomelevel requirements can receive up to $100 per household member in food tax rebates. Applicants must have been Greeley residents for 10 months minimum in 2022, reside in Greeley at the time of application, and show proof of residency.

Qualified family members are legal dependents claimed on federal form 1040 and a Social Security number for each family member listed on the application is also required. Apply by May 31 online in English/Spanish at www.greeleygov.com/ finance, in person (with bilingual assistance) from 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday, at Greeley City Hall, 1000 10th Street, or by calling 970-350-9748.

Community Calendar

March events

FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS

MARCH 1 THROUGH 14

Great Plates of Downtown Dining promotion at 48 restaurants benefitting Food Bank for Larimer County. Downtown FC. downtownfortcollins.com/event/ great-plates-of-downtown

MARCH 1 & 8

Larimer County Summer

Employment Nights

For youth ages 14–18 and their parents. Larimer County Administrative Services, FC and Larimer County Loveland Campus, LV. www.larimer. gov/ewd/summer2023.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

Young Adult Job Fair

For ages 14-24 seeking summer/seasonal jobs. Island Grove Events Center, GR. greeleyrec.com/rodartecommunity-center

FRIDAY, MARCH 24

Daddy Daughter Date Night Formal dance, light refreshments and activities for ages 4–12. Windsor Community Recreation Center, WS. recreationliveshere.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29

Windsor History Museum: Spring Break Morning Families tour red caboose, play historic games and go on quest through museum buildings. Windsor History Museum, WS. recreationliveshere.com

ENTERTAINMENT

THROUGH APRIL 16

Thompson School District

Student Art Show

Loveland Museum, LV. www. thelovelandmuseum.org/ exhibits

MARCH 3 THROUGH 20

Weld County School District 6 High School Artists Exhibition Tointon Gallery, GR. greeleygov.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 4

Kingfish Ingram Blues vocalist and guitarist Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars.showare.com

Fort Collins Symphony Signature Concert 4

Escape to Reflection. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. www.lctix.com

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

MARCH 4 & 5

Berthoud Dance Company: Déjà vu

Entertaining and thought provoking presentation with original choreography and dance. Rialto Theater, LV. www.rialtotheatercenter.org

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

Into Africa

Loveland’s Village Care Project discusses efforts to help indigenous African villagers. Global Village Museum, FC. globalvillagemuseum.org

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

Altan

Celtic flute, fiddle and song. Rialto Theater, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

Lighthouse Dance presents “Time to Shine” Student Showcase Rialto Theater, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org

SUNDAY, MARCH 12

Harlem Globetrotters

Amazing basketball skills and outrageous athleticism. Budweiser Event Center, LV. www.treventscomplex.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 16

Danú

Leading traditional Irish ensemble. Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars. showare.com

Tracy Lawrence & Clay Walker Country music legends. Budweiser Event Center, LV. www.treventscomplex.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 23

National Geographic Live: Secrets of the Whales Features National Geographic Explorer and photographer Brian Skerry. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. www.lctix.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 24

Face Vocal Band

Internationally acclaimed all-vocal rock band. Rialto Theater, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org

Fort Collins Symphony Spring Pops Concert: Escape to the Movies

Reel Music: The History of Music in Film. Timberline Church, FC. www.lctix.com

THERESA BAER

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

Skygazing

Northern Colorado Astronomical Society volunteers provide telescopes and share knowledge of stars, planets, galaxies, etc. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, MARCH

24 & 25

The Magic of Bill Blagg LIVE! Interactive magic and jawdropping illusions. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. www.lctix.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 26

Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis Beethoven’s largest/longest composition, yet one of his most intimate/personal.

Clearwater Church, FC. www.lctix.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29

International Trivia Night Teams of six compete. Global Village Museum, FC. globalvillagemuseum.org

MARCH 30 THROUGH APRIL 2

Disney On Ice: Let’s Celebrate Budweiser Event Center, LV. www.treventscomplex.com

ACTIVE-ITIES

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

Winter Nature Walk: Geology, Wildlife and the Shortgrass Prairie Explore geological forces that created hogbacks and see prairie dog town with volunteer naturalists. Coyote Ridge Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events

Teen Night Out

Volleyball, dodgeball, Giant Jenga, Connect 4 or swim at indoor waterpark. Family FunPlex, GR. greeleyrec.com/family-funplex

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

Lucky Brew Race: 5K /10K/Kids

Fun Run

Run/walk along Poudre River Trail; benefits I Heart Humanity. Eastman Park, LV. www.runwindsorco.com

Indoor FUN Triathlon

20 minutes each swimming/ stationary bike/running track for ages 8+. Windsor Community Recreation Center, WS. www.recreationliveshere.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 26

Spring Equinox Half Marathon & 4-Mile

Out and back course with mix of paved/dirt roads. The Biergarten @ AnheuserBusch Brewery, FC. www.equinoxhalfmarathon.com

MARCH 31 THROUGH APRIL 1

Run the Ranch: 10K/5K Trail Run Benefits the Heart J organization. Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch, LV. www.sweetheartcityracing.com

Asomersault, a cartwheel, jumping off a trampoline into a foam pit: gymnastics offers children as young as 18 months a chance to push their physical boundaries. Its whole-body engagement makes it the best cross-training sport for kids of any age, increasing strength, balance, and coordination. Studies have also shown its positive effect on enhanced reading and math skills.

The childhood obesity epidemic is a growing concern for parents. Gymnastics helps kids become physically active and can help instill a lifelong love of physical fitness. Exercise of any kind reduces the risks of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, but participating in gymnastics can also help kids sleep better, reduce their stress levels, and equip them with the skills to handle physical, social, and emotional challenges in life.

It takes a great deal of body awareness to walk on a four-inch beam, land a cartwheel, or balance on one leg. Gymnastics helps children build motor coordination skills, balance, and all-around muscle strength, endurance, and power, and regular training helps kids develop lean muscles and better posture.

Gymnastics has also shown to increase attention and focus, and there are numerous studies linking gymnastics to enhanced reading and mathematical skills. Research shows that action-based learning increases students’ ability to process and retain new material and that repetitive gross motor movement aids the brain in putting patterns into a sequence, which makes gymnastics a great option for preschool children who might be too young for other sports.

The best part though? It’s just plain FUN! Your child’s imagination comes to life as they flip, jump, climb and swing their way through each station. They can pretend to be a superhero, a ninja warrior or even an Olympic gold medalist. There’s no limit to how far their imagination can take them.

At Timberline Gymnastics, we offer developmental, recreational, and competitive gymnastics programs for kids ages 18 months to 18 years. Call us today at 970-226-0306 visit one of our classes and let your child experience the fun of gymnastics! We also offer Preschool Open Play, birthday parties and camps.

Building your brand

AS A PARENT OF a middle school girl—and former middle school girl myself—I am well aware of the seeming importance of brands and fashion. I forgot how expensive said brands and clothing items are, however. I also forgot that off brands are not acceptable replacements in most cases.

I remember in middle school when the coveted Nike style shoes of 1992 were all the rage but I was only allowed to get a pair of LA Gears. It’s amazing I survived adolescence at all.

Yes, the conversation of brand-name clothing for our kids is rooted heavily in privilege. Many families can only dream of brand-NEW much less brand-name clothing. Nonetheless, it seems to me that looking a certain way that aligns with the developing personal brand seems to be as important as it was in the ‘90s.

Plus, the styles seem as ridiculous as they always have been. Kids walk around wearing tall socks

with their Crocs feeling like fashion royalty while we parents wrinkle our noses. THAT’S what’s cool? Ha.

I think it’s developmentally important for kids to feel uncomfortable and to learn how to cope with that discomfort. A few wellplaced name-brand items can ease the rocky social path of adolescence. Being

teased is part of life and we need to be able to handle it. But where do we draw the line between teasing and bullying?

The No. 1 job of an adolescent is to develop an identity among his or their peers. Brand names or stylish clothes in a general sense—when not used as a social crutch—can certainly provide a foundation on which kids can build feelings of normalcy.

Wearing brand-name clothing is important to lots of teens and giving into buying a few unreasonably-priced items in a popular brand can help your kid feel at ease and part of the group. They can get lots of “social cred” without breaking your bank

on an entire wardrobe of brand names. Does identity and being included come from what we wear? Of course not. But when we’re 13 years old, it’s a part of that concept whether we like it or not. It seems like a pretty easy shortcut to acceptance that only helps create a foundation for the REAL ways we build our identities and social circles: personality, values, senses of humor and more.

I don’t want my kid to build her identity and image around what she wears, but the reality is that life does, in fact, demand a certain outfit sometimes. Why pretend it doesn’t?