RM Parent Magazine | June 2021

JUNE 2021 • RMPARENT.COM

STOP THE

SUMMER SLIDE Live music is back!

Authentic parenting Dental care for little teeth Stargazing Sports, it’s more than a game

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JUNE 2021

Departments

Special Sections

PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Twenty-five and counting—Doing our best to serve the heroes

AS WE GROW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Stop the summer slide—Add in some educational fun

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . . 10 Live music is back!—Enjoy local tunes

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12

JUNE 2021 RMPARENT .COM

FUN IN THE SUN

Explore summer enrichment opportunities with a variety of programs throughout northern Colorado as more and more opportunities arise.

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Stargazing stokes imaginations—Explore the heavens together

Fun in the Sun

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COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 Eat, dance, read, exercise and help your community—Free kids meals, outdoor concerts, summer reading programs, fitness challenges, more

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . 16 Dental care for little teeth—Make it a fun routine

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 0

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Memories persist as kids move on—Taking time for reflection

Features 18 OWN YOUR TRUTH

With so much going on around us we sometimes get overwhelmed.

It’s then that we need to press the pause button, recognize our emotions and start again. Try some of the suggestions mentioned here.

School District News GR-E 6 School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 District 6 seeks sponsors for school kickoff event, District 6 seeks to expand before and after-school programs

Poudre School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 PSDV students get big returns in Colorado stock market competition, Poudre School District honors school lunch heroes, Poudre School District art students showcased in CSU exhibition

Thompson School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Ali Ham, science teacher, Ferguson High School has wanted a career in science since she was very young.

20 SPORTS, IT’S MORE THAN A GAME

Sports are about teamwork, friendships and sportsmanship, not just the game. Encourage your kids to try a sport for the right reasons— having fun, building character and getting exercise.

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perspective perspective

Generosity and counting Twenty-five learning, being and doing

Doing our best to serve the heroes

A W

young man approached me in a parking e published our first issue of Rocky lot Mountain yesterday. Parent magazine in June “My25 family 1996, yearsand ago.IItare wasstaying called over Front there and if we could get five dollars wespare could Range Parent when we launched, and I’ll get athe pizza. ten we get you storyIfofwe thecould nameget change, butcould it involved two and that would cover us.” attorneys and a weird twist from a Denver-based I had no idea whether his exists. story was true. parent magazine that no longer He looked as though he was living Anyway, Kristin and I were justrough, thumbing though—gaunt, cheeks, despairing through that firstsunken issue. What a little walk eyes.

Without hesitation, I pulled out my wallet down memory lane. Our kids, Aly and Andy, and handed bucks. know just why ITurns did it.out Hethat wasn’t were on thathim first ten cover alongI don’t with Ashley Royals. we’ve threatening.

He for wasn’t over imploring.

He justdaughter, seemed toHailey, really is need a been publishing a generation and Ashley’s going boost right then and interacting with him right there a couple of feet to be on our cover next month. Isn’t that fun? Andy’s child is due any away, I just was a moment. minute and felt I’m itguessing that Baby will make the cover this year too. In It’s not that I’m mission to give away all ofcover our money.

I walk fact, this year we planon toaseek out parents who were kids and put and drive by plenty of people who are asking for a little push.

And I’m their kids on the cover. I’m talking to you, Cameron! not driven to help others by a sense of guilt or even a feeling of being The back-cover advertiser was CSU Sports Camps. Kristin lucky enough to have it and thesein others don’t therefore remembers M.L. Johnson calling before thatand firstsoissue saying,it’s “I my social obligation to do it.

Nor do I get a big sense of satisfaction.

I have want your back cover!” That was a great start. A couple of businesses a hard time pinpointing why I feel compelled to help out sometimes, that advertised in that first issue are still with us today: Canyon Concert whether a sidewalk for a neighbor or still stopping to push a car, Ballet andscooping Karate West.

Congrats to them for serving parents too! and We other times not so much. started the magazine with a profound desire to be a resource for Every fall, a neighbor of ours by withonhis air compressor parents in northern Colorado, withcomes an emphasis health, education, and blows out our sprinkler lines.

He makes the rounds in our We’ve recreation and the occasional dive into other compelling topics. corner of the neighborhood and gets everyone ready winter.

He met a boatload of wonderful people along the way andfor found support doesn’t ask for anything.

He just does it because he can.

It is not a when we’ve least expected it. It’s been a journey for sure. transactional offer in any way.

It started as an idea when I was in journalism grad school with Theresachildren.

Baer writes this month in parents her Learn LiveThey column two young It struck me that areand heroes. get about teaching children to be generous and to volunteer.

She up every day, work, run the household and then, on top of allalso theoffers some ideas of about how.

The idea tothe helpmost children to be challenges just where living and in this world, theyisdo important aware of others’ andchildren. to understand thatthat they,idea themselves, thing: They careneeds for their I carried with me have and something to offer. when a friend sent me a newspaper clipping (yes, via mail) of a family The goal is for really all of based us, to parenting not just domagazine, generosityI as an in Oregon that hadthem, started a locally split activity that we have come to understand as something that we should from my partners in another publishing venture, and we dove into this. do because we’re luckyaenough have somethingwith and those other And yes, starting businesstoon a shoestring two kids is not people are struggling.

Where we’re really headed with this is for out, our really a secure, possibly responsible, thing to do. But it worked children to see people who are just like they are, who just want to be pretty much. They survived and are contributing members of society. happy just as they do and who don’t want to feel bad just as they don’t And we couldn’t have done it without a committed team who want been to. Wewith want getyears. beyond the them and us feelings.

We don’t just have ustofor Advertising Director and co-owner, drop money in a has can been and walk by. We stop. talk and engage with Greg Hoffman, the driving forceWe behind revenue since peopleEmily who are just likeCreative us.

1997.

Zaynard, Director, has been making us look the end, weand want to be generosity, not just do generosity, though goodInsince 2008, Distribution Manager, Susan Harting, has been the path to being generosity, it seems, lies through the path of doing making sure that the magazine gets out to where you can find for generosity. nearly a decade. Thanks team!

‘Tis the season, Well, enough for now. I’ll probably have some more of these strolls Scott over the year. I hope that you’ll join me.

Scott

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OCTOBER 2019 • Volume 24, Issue 6 JUNE 2021 • Volume 25, Issue 1

PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 PUBLISHER scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 EDITOR scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 EDITOR kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 CREATIVE DIRECTOR kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com Emily Zaynard CREATIVE DIRECTOR emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com Emily Zaynard ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 DISTRIBUTION MANAGER greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Hartig ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com Susan Harting COVER PHOTO susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com Cheri Schonfeld, Courtesy of COVER- skysopendesign.com PHOTO Sky’s Open Design istockphoto.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson Lynn U. Nichols Kris Kodrich, Lynn U. Nichols

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an enPublication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. dorsement of the products or services advertised.

RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertiseRMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by ment for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2019 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights ©2021 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited. permission is prohibited.

OUR OUR COMMUNITY COMMUNITY PARTNERS: PARTNERS:

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as we grow Stop the summer slide Add in some educational fun

LY NN U. NICHOLS

M

aybe you’ve heard of the summer slide. It’s a loss of knowledge and learning progress that happens during the 10-12 weeks of summer break. Considering the last year of distance learning, your kids might have fallen behind even more, especially if they have special learning needs. If so, summer is your chance to get them back on track.

It takes intentional focus on reading and learning to reverse—or avoid—the summer slide. The best way to do it is committing to daily reading and seeking out fun learning opportunities for your kids, whether that’s through camps, programming through nonprofits like the Boys and Girls Club or city recreation programs, or family outings.

Here are some affordable ideas to stop the summer slide.

GO TO THE LIBRARY The libraries have a ton of free activities for kids of all ages. For example, in the Poudre River Library District has cultural events like African drumming, tree story time on a blanket, evening virtual bedtime stories, book clubs, music and movement, and much more.

Don’t forget to pick up books for required daily reading sessions while you’re there.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF EVENTS AND CLASSES THROUGH YOUR CITY AND COUNTY Cities have tons of recreation opportunities for kids and families.

Some are free and many are low cost, like Art in the Park classes, pony rides and barnyard classes at The Farm at Lee Martinez Park in Fort Collins, and drop-in hockey, because, after all, trying something new is learning. Larimer County Natural Resources also offers

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free classes for all ages, such as learning about geology and wildflowers.

Some programs offer reduced fees.

CREATE FUN LEARNING EXPERIENCES AT HOME Remember, children learn best through play and by doing. With the long summer days, take advantage of fun learning sessions in the evenings. They can be as easy as playing board games that strengthen language or math skills, getting a science experiment kit, writing a letter to grandma or a pen pal across the world, doing a puzzle, challenging kids to make up a game and teach the group, putting on a puppet show, gardening, and so much more.

COMMIT TO AT LEAST 15 MINUTES OF NIGHTLY READING Researchers have found that 15 minutes of daily reading is the magic number for kids to achieve gains in reading— making the difference to move from the low or middle reading group to the high reading group in school. Since reading is

the basis of so much learning, it makes sense to start here, with this simple daily goal. Reading increases vocabulary and critical thinking skills. According to a study using National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) data, kids who read 30+ minutes a day encounter 13.7 million words by high school graduation compared to 1.5 million words encountered by their peers who read less than 15 minutes a day. That’s the power of daily reading.

Make daily reading fun with popsicles on the patio, reading under a tree at the park, or snuggling under the stars on a blanket with flashlights. Keep track with a reading chart with a special reward at the end of summer.

Without extra effort and outside learning, the summer slide becomes cumulative, putting kids behind their peers a little more each year. By staying conscious that your kids need exposure to fun learning opportunities during the summer, you’ll stop that slide and empower them to start school in the fall with confidence.

to write for Rocky Mountain Parent and Fifty & Better magazines.

Contact Kristin at kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com

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family activities

Live music is back!

Enjoy local tunes again

LEA HANSON

A

fter more than a year of going without, let this summer be the one filled with music and community. Sara Durnil, active Northern Colorado music participant and community organizer says community members should take every opportunity they can to see music this summer, “Not only have we been going without live music, musicians have been going without a live audience, and many without pay.”

Get out and support local artists and festivals this summer.

Avogadro’s Outdoor Patio, FC Dates include After the Fire on May 30 and Wooleye on June 11. Fees vary Full lineup and schedule at https://www.avogadros.com/ Dacono Music and Movies Summer Series: Centennial Field Featuring music from Zeppephlia, FACE, Journey to Heart, Chris Daniels & The Kings, and Paizley Park June-September. Times TBD. Check website often. Free. https://www.cityofdacono. com/1106/Music-Movie-Summer-Series

New West Fest—Fort Collins August 13-15 tentatively. Think positively!!

Check here often for updates: https://www. bohemiannights.org/bohemian-nights-atnewwestfest.html

Greeley Blues Jam June 5, Featuring Ronnie Baker Brooks, Southern Avenue, The Grace Kuch Band, and more. $30. Kids under 12 get in free!

The festival is eleven hours with non-stop music in the arena paired with shopping, food, and the Blues 101 stage. More information at https://greeleybluesjam.org/

Paddler’s Pub Fort Collins: Mountain Music Showcase Summer Series Enjoy beautiful views of the foothills, sand volleyball, and a multitude of yard games.

Paddler’s Pub is kid and family friendly with a kids playground, tetherball and plenty of room to run. Kickoff June 15: 5-8pm with Adam Golden, Addie Tonic, Old Fuss & Feathers Other dates include Tyler T. on June 18 and Heart Medicine on August 13 Watch for more details at https://www.raftmw. com/paddlers-pub/

Lyric Cinema, FC Live music on the huge outdoor lawn. Shows start at 6pm.

Dates include Nightshades/Cactus Cat on May 22, Vivian, DEBR4H, and Nick Sanville on June 12, and Cary Morin & Ghost Dog on June 18.

Fees vary. See full lineup and schedule at https://lyriccinema.com/

Sunflower Farm, Longmont Featuring Tierro Band with Bridget Law, Foggy Memory Boys, Ragged Union Bluegrass and more! Food trucks will also be available on select evenings, to grab some easy dinner with your family as well and support local food vendors!

June 2—Aug 11, every Wednesday from

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4-8pm, $23 per person, kids under 12 free.

Full schedule at https://www. sunflowerfarminfo.com/farmfest-public-hours Taste of Fort Collins https://tasteoffortcollins.com/ July 24 & 25 with Nelly and The Spin Doctors. $20-25. This two-day festival is a community celebration with family activities, food from local restaurants, entertainment from acclaimed musicians & an eclectic display of fine artisans work! Local performers will have the opportunity to share the stage with Nelly & the Spin Doctors. https://tasteoffortcollins.com/ Windsor Summer Concert Series at Boardwalk Park Performances from Last Men on Earth, Funky Business, Dave Beegle & The Jurassicasters, The Pryde and more. Free Thursdays June-August, 6:30-8:30pm See https://www.recreationliveshere. com/219/Summer-Concert-Series for full schedule and lineup.

Check for mask requirements.

Don’t forget ear protection for the little ones if you plan on getting close to the stages.

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learn and live

Stargazing stokes imaginations Explore the heavens together

TERESEA BAER

T

ake time to slow down and appreciate what the universe has to offer with a family night out stargazing! Here are some tips and tricks to exploring the night sky with your family: Choose a clear night with comfortable temperatures and…

GET OUT OF THE CITY Get as far away as you can from the city’s light pollution which dilutes stars’ brightness. In northern Colorado, driving to the mountains or out into the country provides a vibrant view of the stars.

USE TOOLS TO LOCATE OBJECTS Planisphere: Star chart in the form of two adjustable disks that rotate on a common pivot to display the visible stars and constellations for any date and time. These can be found at bookstores or where telescopes are sold as well as online.

Apps: Several smartphone apps (e.g., Sky Map by Google, Stellarium) are available for stargazing by using your phone’s GPS to help you find the position of constellations, stars and planets.

Telescopes/binoculars: These instruments come in all price ranges and kids versions are available at local retailers and online. Joe Adlhoch, president of Northern Colorado Astronomical Society, says “Read up about the legends of the constellations and share that with your children. Once you have some familiarity with the night sky, you can use simple binoculars to enhance your fun. Binoculars will allow you to see craters on the moon, star clusters and bright nebulae.

A small telescope will show the four moons of Jupiter, Saturn’s rings and bright galaxies.”

Printed materials: The library and 12

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The night sky

The Northern Colorado Astronomical Society (NoCoAstro) is a nonprofit organization “dedicated to promoting the science of astronomy and to encourage and coordinate activities of amateur astronomers.” Learn more about the organization at www.nocoastro.org or attend a local telescope skygazing event conducted by club volunteers:

book stores offer books and magazines (e.g., Astronomy, Sky & Telescope) for all ages and skill levels to learn about the night sky.

ENGAGE AND ENTERTAIN VARIOUS AGES As long as you’re bending bedtime rules, go all out with some fun-themed treats like moon pies or constellation cookies. Bring blankets and pillows to snuggle up in on the ground.

Younger children are likely to lose interest in looking at the sky for more than 15 minutes, but it’s possible to keep their attention longer if you bring along children’s books about the stars or night sky. Kids can make connections with the story and what they’re witnessing above them to feel a part of something way bigger than they are.

Older children are likely to have

Lory State Park Park pass required: www.cpw.state. co.us/placestogo/parks/Lory Friday, June 4, 9–11pm Saturday, June 26, 9–11pm Fort Collins Natural Areas Registration required: www.fcgov.com/events Saturday, June 12, 9–11pm, Bobcat Ridge Friday, June 18, 9:30–11:30pm, Fossil Creek Reservoir

learned some information about planets, constellations, meteors and more in school. Allow them to use a telescope if you have one or binoculars and guide them in spotting the Milky Way, constellations such as the Big/ Little Dippers, Orion the Hunter, Scorpius as well as planets.

Stargazing offers opportunities to connect with nature and your children, and possibly spark an interest in science. Enjoy the time together and the show!

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community news Eat, dance, read and help your community

Free kids meals, outdoor concerts, summer reading programs, fitness challenges THERESA BAER

MAKE IT STOP, COLORADO ChildSafe Colorado, a nonprofit providing victims and their families treatment, education and recovery from the trauma of childhood abuse, recently launched a new child abuse prevention campaign, Make it Stop, Colorado.

Check out the website at www.makeit stop.co for comprehensive tools to help YOU prevent, recognize and report potential child abuse. ChildSafe and the CDC agree that many community struggles, such as homelessness, drug abuse, domestic violence, poverty, etc., have roots resulting from childhood trauma and abuse. By addressing this trauma, ChildSafe believes these community problems can be minimized.

FREE KIDS MEALS Kids Feeding Kids Summer Breakfast Program: FoCo Café, a nonprofit pay-what-you-are-able café at 225 Maple Street in Fort Collins, offers free healthy breakfast and fun, educational and social activities for children and their families this summer from June 2 until July 30. Kids ages 0 to 18 years, especially those in need of healthy, delicious food, can visit from 9–10:30am.

Registration is required. To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/FoCo Cafe/events.

Food Bank for Larimer County is distributing kids’ meals at their Food Share pantries this summer so parents can shop and get meals at the same time. They will be at roughly 40 sites during the summer, so look for the Lunch Lab food truck or visit www. foodbanklarimer.org to learn more.

Weld Food Bank offers meals to children under 18 years old at multiple sites in areas at risk for hunger throughout the summer. Visit www. weldfoodbank.org/summer-feeding to learn more.

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ONE SWEET SUMMER EVENT SERIES Presented by the Loveland Downtown District, the One Sweet Summer event series has returned to The Foundry Plaza in Loveland this year, running weekly through September. Enjoy familyfriendly live music from regional bands, extended outdoor patio dining, fitness classes, kids’ days, local artists, food vendors and craft breweries plus two all-day music festival events in July and September. All series events are free to the public with free parking throughout downtown and in The Foundry parking garage. Attendees are encouraged to follow all posted guidelines per current Larimer County COVID-19 restrictions. View the full event schedule online at https://downtownloveland.org/ onesweetsummer.

VOLUNTEER FOR NATIONAL TRAILS DAY EVENT IN LOVELAND Celebrate National Trails Day as a family by helping to build Loveland’s newest soft-surface trail at Old St. Louis Natural Area. On June 12 from 9am until noon, crews will place crusher fines

on the newly graded trail and pack down the material to create a soft-surface trail loop around the wetland. All ages are welcome to assist—no experience is necessary. Dress in layers with long pants and sturdy shoes and bring a filled water bottle, sunscreen and work gloves.

All tools and materials will be provided.

Learn more and register at https://offero. cityofloveland.org.

NATURE HIKES RETURN Guided nature walks at Larimer County parks and open spaces have returned!

Join these guided excursions presented by the Larimer County Natural Resources department to learn more about native plants, geology and local wildlife. The hikes are free but registration is required. View the Larimer County event calendar at www.larimer.org/ events to see what hikes are coming up and get registered.

EXPLORE LIFE IN ONE CUBIC FOOT! Life in One Cubic Foot, a new exhibit at The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, reveals the diversity of nature using

“biocubes”—one-cubic-foot frames for surveying the animals and plants living in an ecosystem. Open June 12 through September 5, this special exhibition is free with general museum admission and features stunning photographs by David Liittschwager, biocube-related objects and tools, animal models, hands-on interactive activities and videos. Reserve your tickets online at www.fcmod.org.

FIT FAMILIES SUMMER CHALLENGE UCHealth has launched a modified version of their popular Fit Families FITPASS program for this summer.

Families that register will receive a tracking calendar with a menu of fun, family activities to complete on their own over the course of the summer.

Participants will also receive a FITPASS membership card to use on a limited number of discounted activities including climbing walls, golf, stand up paddle boarding (SUP) and free days at the Farm at Lee Martinez.

Families who participate in 25 activities by August 15 will receive t-shirts and be entered into a prize drawing.

Registration is free! Sign up at www. healthykidsclub.org.

GREELEY ACTIVITIES NOW OPEN Centennial Village Museum opened at the end of May, with repairs and freshened up paint on several buildings during the closure in response to COVID-19. Museum staff also modified operations to allow for visitors to

experience the site independently with self-guided tours. Located at 1475 A Street in Greeley, the Museum is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10am until 4pm and Thursdays by appointment for group visits. Visit www.greeleymuseums. com or call 970-350-9220 to learn more.

In addition, City of Greeley outdoor pools and splash parks opened May 29 with daily open swim times from noon to 5pm at all facilities.

ESTES PARK COMMUNITY AND FAMILY ADVISORY BOARD Did you know Estes Park had a Community and Family Advisory Board? The board’s role includes researching and summarizing factual data on issues of importance to families in the Estes Valley; developing recommended policies to address these

issues; and presenting recommendations to the Town board/staff. The Board meets the first Thursday of each month from 3:30pm to 5:30pm and community members are welcome to attend and comment. To view the Community and Family Advisory board meeting by Zoom, visit zoom. us/join with meeting ID: 975 1504 3195, or call in to 877-853-5257 with meeting ID 975 1504 3195. To view the current agenda or archive of meeting minutes, visit www.estes.org/ boardsandmeetings.

SUMMER READING CHALLENGES With summertime comes reading programs for the whole family! Local libraries offer opportunities to earn fun prizes by reading, participating in events and completing activities. Celebrating the love of animals and stories, Tails and Tales is the theme across library districts. Learn more and register at your local library: • High Plains Library District, Greeley May 30 through August 8 https://highplains.beanstack.org/ reader365 • Clearview Library District, Windsor June 1 through July 30 https://clearviewlibrary.org/sap-2666 • Poudre River Public Library District, Fort Collins June 1 through August 15 www.poudrelibraries.org/src RMPARENT

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healthy living

Dental care for little teeth Make it a fun routine

LEA HANSON

I

nstilling good dental hygiene in children is very important. Just like looking both ways before crossing the street and coughing into their sleeves, good oral hygiene should be instilled in kids’ daily routines from an early age. As adults, brushing and flossing are ingrained as part of your daily routine. But it’s not that way for your kids. Staff members at Big Grins in Fort Collins say kids need to be shown the proper way to care for their teeth so they will develop good dental habits.

Big Grins staffers suggest the following for helping children develop a good oral care routine that will last a lifetime.

LET THEM SELECT THEIR SUPPLIES Let kids choose a toothbrush and toothpaste. Whether they’re choosing based on color, a favorite character, or something else, kids’ toothbrushes and pastes are meant to be fun. If your family can swing the extra dollar(s), challenge yourself to give in to the more expensive, but more fun options.

Just remember kids younger than 3 shouldn’t use a toothpaste that contains fluoride because fluoride ought not to be swallowed.

LEAD BY EXAMPLE Kids do what parents and older siblings do; so be sure all family members brush and floss their teeth each morning and

night. When little kids see oral hygiene as a part of your daily routine, they’ll naturally want to make it part pf their own. When it’s possible brush together (at least the kids if you have more than one) so it becomes a group activity. And remember, until your kids are at least 6 or 7, they’ll need some help brushing to ensure their teeth are properly cleaned.

ESTABLISH A ROUTINE Everyone should brush their teeth in the morning and before bed. For kids, setting a timer helps them get accustomed to brushing without being asked as well as knowing how long to brush. Additionally, stress the importance of brushing after eating candy and sugary snacks; this removes food and bacteria from teeth, helping to prevent decay and erosion.

USE SONGS AS TIMERS Make brushing fun with songs. Look for silly songs about brushing on the

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Internet you can sing while brushing.

Or, let kids listen to their favorite song as they brush. Tell them they need to keep brushing until the song is over to be certain they brush long enough to clean their teeth adequately.

Two minutes brushing time is recommended.

MAKE IT A TEACHABLE MOMENT If your child does get a cavity and must have it filled, make sure he or she recognizes the need to improve oral care as a result. Going to the dentist should never feel like a punishment, but be certain your child recognizes that cavities can usually be avoided if they’re taking proper care of their teeth and gums.

GET ROUTINE DENTAL CARE Everyone in the family needs to have regular dental checkups to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy. Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams.

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Own your truth Be a better parent Lynn U Nichols

W

hen we are stressed, angry or worried, we’re at our worst as parents. We’re impatient. We’re distracted. Simply put, we are not tapped into ourselves or to what’s right in front of us. Our kids.

When we try to parent from that unsteady place it’s often less than ideal. We don’t listen well. We don’t consider the situation. Instead, we react. Maybe we even snap at our kids. That’s when we need to press the pause button, recognize our emotions, then start again. Digging into what’s behind our stress and fear and revealing our core, authentic selves makes us better parents.

“If we tear away the experiences and trauma of life and get down to the innocence, purity and humanness in all of us, that’s authenticity. Authentic parenting comes from that space of being human,” says Dannie Mironski, MA, LPC, N.C.C., co-owner of Parent-Child Interaction Center, which offers a full range of counseling services for teens, adults, and couples in areas such as stress management, depression, conflict management, anger management, anxiety, and 18

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sexuality to families in Fort Collins and Boulder.

So how do we do get authentic and parent from our best selves?

Here’s a few ways to start.

TAKE A TIME OUT A parental time out is stopping and taking a step away, literally or figuratively, from a situation so you can look at it objectively. It’s a chance to check in with yourself to see what you’re feeling and gain understanding about where the reaction on the tip of your tongue is coming from.

“It’s okay to tell your child that you need five or 10 minutes to calm down,” Mironski says. “Start with self-reflection and self-love. Are you being hard on yourself? Not allowing yourself to make mistakes and be human? Feeling fear or anxiety?”

Once you are able to identify what you are feeling, it’s easier to set down your ego and respond from a pure, calm place. Be patient with yourself, it might take time.

“When you can, give your emotions the time they need to simmer. Sit in the discomfort of your emotions. That’s

Self-care starts with boundaries

We all know the airplane oxygen mask concept—you have to first take care of yourself before you can take care your kids. Maybe along the way you got the message that your kids should always come first. For a family to function healthily, parents must come first, and then the kids.

“The number one question I ask parents in therapy is, ‘Who comes first in your house?’ I often hear, ‘The kids.’ If the kids come first, or if everyone is even, it gets messy. The healthiest order in a family is the individual adults at the top, then the couple, and then the kids,” says Dannie Mironski, MA, LPC, N.C.C., co-owner of Parent-Child Interaction Center.

To maintain that hierarchy, set boundaries. Start with physical ones. You have a bubble around your body, and you are in charge of that bubble. Your kids have bubbles, too. Permission is needed to cross into each other’s bubbles. Teaching these boundaries helps eliminate kids climbing on your head or siblings getting into each other’s faces.

Next, draw clear lines between adult topics and child topics—blurred lines here can make kids feel anxious and overwhelmed because they don’t know how to handle adult concerns.

Also, be aware of your own needs for self-care so your children don’t feel like they have to fill what they perceive as missing.

While you are at it, establish a regular daily schedule with a set bedtime, homework time, and play time so life is predictable and safe. Finally, commit to taking time regularly for yourself and together as a couple. After all, the airlines got it right.

where the power is,” she adds.

Mironski recommends to parents that they identify their triggers. If you know that certain behaviors from your child drive you crazy, the next time they happen you can stop and take a breath to reset.

TEACH EMOTIONS BY SHARING EMOTIONS Sharing your emotions sends the message that being emotional is okay, and that we are all human. It helps kids from a young age identify how they are feeling.

“It’s healthy to say, ‘I’m feeling sad right now, but I am okay. I can talk to a friend or Dad about it,’” Mironski says.

“When kids don’t know what they are feeling, they tend to have big emotions that come out as tantrums, hitting or kicking, because they don’t know how to process them. So having parents model their emotions and their coping mechanisms is really important.”

When a child is emotional, it’s fine to help them identify what they are feeling. For example, you could say, ‘It looks like you feel frustrated. I see you ripping apart that paper and frowning.’

Mironski says if you get the emotion

wrong your kids will tell you.

However, don’t go overboard when sharing your own emotions. You don’t want to spill everything—financial worries, relationship problems—or wallow in your pain in front of your kids. If you do, they might feel like they have to fix you or take care of you. That can only lead to anxiety for them.

BAN THE WORDS NO, QUIT, DON’T, STOP Do you find yourself saying these words a hundred times a day? Maybe to the point where your kids are not even listening anymore? If so, it’s time to flip those messages from negative to positive.

“Instead of giving a command, tell them what you want them to do instead,” Mironski suggests. “For example, instead of saying, ‘Stop jumping on the couch!’ you could say, “I need you to sit calmly on the couch.’”

Another idea in place of issuing yet another time out—although time outs are fine—is simply helping your child pause and take a step back by saying, ‘Hey, it seems like you are angry right now. How do you feel about going to your room for five minutes?’ Mironski also recommends watching out for

times when your child is behaving well and calling it out with specific praise, as in, ‘I really like how you and your sister are getting along, right now. I noticed how you let her borrow your art supplies.’ By playing to the positive more often than the negative, kids are more apt to listen when you talk and respond to your requests.

“You will slip up. That’s natural.

It feels easier in the moment to use negative reinforcement,” Mironski says.

“As long as your positive reinforcements outweigh your negative ones, you are good to go.”

SAY YOU’RE SORRY If you do snap and react to your kids in a way that you are not proud of, be gentle with yourself. After all, there’s no such thing as a perfect parent. Apologizing to your child, or recognizing you made a mistake, is extremely powerful.

“It shows vulnerability, and teaches kids that we can make mistakes and move on from them,” Mironski says. “It also builds trust. Kids recognize that you are being honest and that you respect them enough to set things straight.”

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Learn sportsmanship,

tolerance and respect

Sports, it’ s more than a game

Lynn U Nichols

W

ith sports, the most valuable points don’t end up on the scoreboard. They’re counted in the many ways your kids show good character—sportsmanship, teamwork and friendship—on and off the field. Sports are loaded with chances to practice these valuable life lessons.

THE SOFT SIDE OF SPORTSMANSHIP Giving a high five to the winning team, shaking an opponent’s hand, saying congratulations to the other team’s coach. Being a good sport can go against the American grain that winning is most important above all else. But we know that when it comes to life, that’s simply not true. Showing humility and acting with dignity are more valuable—and prove the bigger person. Let’s face it. We all prefer being around kind, compassionate people that are willing to be flexible rather than those who boast, never admit they are wrong, and always push to win.

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The reward for good sportsmanship is often being well liked and respected, which goes a long way toward lifelong happiness. Kids who learn sportsmanship learn how to get along with others in all areas of their lives. They know how to compromise and take turns leading. They know how to shrug off a loss and vow to try hard again next time.

When your child walks off the field and has played his hardest and shown respect, he’s a winner whether his team won the game or not. If your child is upset for missing a goal or getting a bad call from a ref, tell him you understand how frustrating it can be to not have things turn out as hoped. Tell him you are proud of him, despite the loss, and you noticed how he was trying his hardest. Resist the urge to review a play and tell him what he should have done differently. Likely, he already knows but as we all know, we can’t always make our bodies do what we want them to do.

Let it heal

Whether your child sprained her ankle kicking a soccer ball or tore a tendon sliding into second, do the wise thing and let it heal before allowing her back in the game. The coach might be chomping at the bit to get a good player back on the field, or your child might say he’s just fine and beg you to let him play, however, pushing the body when it’s injured might mean more—and worse—damage. Playing while in pain can lead to a chronic injury that can haunt your child’s sports career for months or even years.

If it’s a mild injury, ice and rest for a few days might be enough. If it’s more serious, like a torn ACL, your child might be on the sidelines longer and likely need rehab exercises and a staged return to playing.

Either way, put your foot down and insist he or she wait until the pain and swelling are completely gone before getting back in the game.

You might not believe this, but most kids just want to have fun. Many kids would rather play on a losing team than sit on the bench of a winning one. Kids feel stress when they are playing a sport to please their parents or their coach.

Make sure your child is playing the sport for the right reason—for the thrill of the game, for companionship, and for exercise. Remind her that winning isn’t the goal and that you won’t judge her on her performance. After all, very few players earn a scholarship to play in college.

According to the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) only two percent of high schoolers have that honor

in the U.S. each year. Better to cheer them on and set them up for a lifetime of enjoying recreational sports.

make a difference. They also learn that not everyone is like them, which fosters tolerance and respect for others.

BEING ONE OF THE GANG Being a part of a team and celebrating each other’s stand-out moments is an excellent backdrop to life. Kids who master this skill have it easier as they move through life at school, on the playground and when they get older and take a job. Being a good team player is at the top of every employer’s wish list. If you know how to be a part of a team, you are not afraid to cheer on a coworker’s success or share ideas.

So how can parents help instill the characteristics of a good team player including responsibility, respect, compassion, tolerance, courtesy and fairness on and off the field? It may seem unrelated, but consider getting your kids involved in volunteering in addition to playing sports. The lessons learned there will transfer to the playing field.

“There’s so much learning to be had from tangible life experiences.

Volunteering presents many teachable moments about the bigger world,” says Andrea Holt, Marriage and Family Therapist with UCHealth’s Family Medicine Center in Fort Collins.

Developmentally, young kids are naturally a bit egocentric. Through hands-on volunteering, kids learn that their life really matters, that they can

FEATHERED FRIENDS Sports are a great way for kids to make friends. From the get go, they all have the same goal—to play the game, work hard and improve—making it easy to bond. When kids feel accepted in a group, they have better self-esteem. Encourage your kids to pitch in by helping pick up cones and balls after practice. Model complimenting their team mates on the ride home and encouraging your kids to cheer each other on. Individual sports— like gymnastics, tennis, golf, archery and track and field—can make it even easier to take out the element of competition and boost the habit of encouraging each other.

After all, when each person does well individually, the team does well overall.

Inspire your child to try a sport for all the right reasons—having fun, building character and getting exercise.

You have lots of options in northern Colorado, from city recreational teams and sports associations, to sports programs offered at school. If you keep those three reasons in mind, your kids might avoid the statistic by the National Alliance for Youth Sports that says 70 percent of kids drop out of sports by the age of 13. The longer kids play, the longer they have the chance to gain the positive life lessons that sports bring.

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greeley district 6 news District 6 seeks sponsors for school kickoff event distancing and mask wearing protocols.

• A fully in-person event with COVID-19 protocols as recommended by the Weld County and Colorado departments of public health.

Greeley-Evans School District 6 is seeking sponsors for the annual School Kickoff Community Celebration, to be held Saturday, August 7 at Island Grove Regional Park.

This is an annual event District 6 has hosted since 2013 and it has grown into a huge celebration at the beginning of each school year. Under normal circumstances, this is an inperson event, where the district gives out thousands of backpacks filled with school supplies to District 6 students, provides onsite sports physicals and vaccinations for students, gives out food to families, provides student entertainment as well as hosts more than 80 community organizations and vendors who provide services and goods to our families. The School Kickoff can draw up to 6,000 people.

Last year, because of COVID-19, District 6 hosted a drive-up only event to hand out backpacks, school supplies and food to District 6 families. This year, plans are still uncertain as to what the event will look like, but these options are being considered: • A modified drive-through event where sponsors and vendors would have tables

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along the route to give out information or giveaways to families. District 6 would provide sponsored backpacks and school supplies, as well as pre-packaged food.

• A hybrid walk-up, drive through event, where the District would hand out supplies, backpacks and food, but families could choose to visit vendor and sponsor tables, outside only, with

District 6 is hoping to provide 5,000 backpacks filled with school supplies. More sponsors are needed to reach that goal.

Each sponsorship level has marketing and publicity opportunities for businesses and organizations, as well as a free community booth at the event.

Any business or organization interested in becoming a sponsor for the event should contact District 6 Director of Communications Theresa Myers at (970) 348-6003 or at tmyers@ greeleyschools.org.

For more information on the School Year Kickoff Community Celebration, visit www.greeleyschools. org/kickoff.

DISTRICT 6 SEEKS TO EXPAND BEFORE AND AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS THROUGH FEDERAL GRANT District 6 is seeking public comments and feedback on an application that

will be submitted for a federal 21st Century Community Learning Center grant to expand before-and after-school programs at five schools beginning the fall of 2021.

The district currently has 21st CCLC programs at Martinez Elementary, Heath Middle School, Bella Romero K-8 and Jefferson Junior/ High School.

The district will apply to add the 21st CCLC program at Dos Rios Elementary, Heiman Elementary, Scott Elementary, Salida Del Sol Academy and Greeley West High School for school year 2021-2022. The 21st CCLC grant has the potential of providing five years of funding which will allow for before-and after-school programing at the aforementioned schools.

The focus of the 21st CCLC beforeand after-school program is to provide students with additional academic support in reading, writing, math and science with a heavy emphasis on STEM activities (science, technology, engineering and

math). District 6 also partners with local agencies to provide enrichment activities to the students, such as recreation, drama, arts, cooking, and dance.

For more information about the 21st CCLC, or to review and provide input on the application, please contact Brian Lemos, the district’s 21st CCLC

coordinator, at 970-348-6267 or blemos@greeleyschools.org.

Federal statute requires each applicant to give notice to the community of its intent to submit an application and to provide for public availability and review of the application and any waiver request after submission.

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poudre school district news Students get big returns in stock market competition A Leader in Me school, for the past six years,” Day says. “Lopez is a wonderful neighborhood school that fosters a sense of community and belonging.”

Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Schools Traci Gile says it is evident that Day is committed to the Lopez community and will continue to empower student and staff leadership.

“She believes and works toward the vision that every child’s worth and potential is developed through welcoming and inclusive school environments,” Gile adds.

Read more about Cheryl Day, new principal of Lopez Elementary school at psdschools.org.

Fourth-grade Poudre School District Virtual (PSDV ) student Madelyn Scrivner took first place in the spring state Stock Market Game (SMG) competition. Also, PSDV fourth graders, Lillian Buse and Bri Colburn followed in second place, and Jack Norris in third.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: THE STORY OF FOUR FIRST-RATE TEACHERS PSD has a lot of appreciation for what you do, including your compassion, determination, patience and perseverance.

For this year’s Teacher Appreciation Week (May 3-7), PSD celebrated the 1,784 teachers who educate and care for our students. PSD has so much appreciation for what you do, as well as for your compassion, determination, patience, adaptability and perseverance. Thank you for making the district what it is.

The following stories on psdschools. org showcase several teachers from across PSD. Visit the district website to read these stories.

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PSD SELECTS PRINCIPAL FOR LOPEZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Poudre School District has hired Cheryl Day the principal for Lopez Elementary School.

“It has been my pleasure to serve as assistant principal of Lopez Elementary,

PSD ANNOUNCES TOP 10 DISTRICT FILM FAIR FINALISTS: The Poudre School District film festival may have looked different this year, but it was still a success. PSD is proud of the 80 students who worked hard to submit their films this year. The film fair was held virtually on May 4, 2021.

To find all films and watch the finalists’ productions visit www.youtube. com/watch?v=n1IWXjZgqX0.

ART STUDENTS SHOWCASED IN CSU EXHIBITION The “Designs & Images Art Exhibition” at Colorado State University (CSU) has more than a 47-year long tradition showcasing the visual arts in Poudre School District. Over the decades, the exhibition and PSD art programs have adapted and changed to reflect the current state art standards and new learning strategies, and because of the global pandemic, this year has been unlike any other. Check the website for more information, www.psdschools.org/ News/Designs-Images-Show PSD SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION OPEN; PROGRAMMING DURING SUMMER 2021: Registration for Poudre School District Summer School is now open to soon-

to-be-ninth graders and all high school students currently enrolled in a PSD school. Summer school classes are free this year. PSD is offering summer programming for students. Several offerings are on an invitation-only basis.

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION IS AVAILABLE ONLINE: Register online at olr.psdschools.org. Even if you opt to send your child to a school outside your neighborhood through School Choice, you must still register your child at your neighborhood school.

POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT HONORS SCHOOL LUNCH HEROES Between preparing healthy food, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies and offering service with a smile, Poudre School District Child Nutrition professionals have a lot on their plates. To celebrate their hard work and commitment, PSD is recognized School Lunch Hero Day on May 7.

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thompson school district news Ali Ham, science teacher at Ferguson High School

A

li Ham has wanted a career in science since she was very young.

“My whole life was science,” Ali recalls. Originally, she had wanted to be a veterinarian, but after working as a nurse’s assistant, she realized that although she loved the science and health aspects, she wanted to be able to work more with people.

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That’s when she decided on a career in teaching. She started her student teaching at a middle school and realized it wasn’t her passion and asked to be moved. She was placed at an alternative high school, and immediately knew she had found the place she was meant to be.

“Before that, I didn’t even know

what an alternative high school was,” Ali says. “But my heart will always be with alternative. There’s something about the vibe that I don’t think you could reproduce on a larger scale.”

Ali has taught science and health at Ferguson High School for four years, and says the unique population at the school is what makes it so special to her.

“My favorite thing about these kids is that they are so real,” she explains.

“They want the truth and they want you to be a real person back to them.”

Ferguson is designated as an Alternative Education Campus by the Colorado Department of Education, which means that at least 90 percent of the students are identified as at-risk.

“We get a bad rap in the community sometimes of having the ‘bad kids,’ but they’re not bad kids at all,” Ali says. “I love working at FHS so much, it’s hard to put into words. It’s a magical place with these kids. Our

school feels like one big family.”

Ali says that the smaller school size (around 120 students) gives her the opportunity to teach students, but also to get to know them.

“Most of these kids have trauma in their background. I don’t usually know what that background is, but I know they have a story or they wouldn’t be here,” she says. “When I do learn their stories, they impress the heck out of me that they even show up every day. Even as an adult, if I were going through half the stuff they’re going through, I would find it challenging to show up to work every day.”

Ali’s teaching style also involves giving her students as much real-life experience as possible, and in nonCOVID years, she is known as the “fieldtrip queen.”

“I love it when I can take them out of the classroom and show them the things they are learning about,” Ali says. She often takes her students to the Colorado State University cadaver

lab to learn about anatomy, and says the firsthand learning provides something for her students that can’t be taught in a regular classroom.

Providing these kinds of opportunities for her students involves creativity, and Ali is committed to doing what it takes. Despite not having any formal grant-writing experience, Ali has pursued—and successfully secured—several grants for her school, including a Thompson Education Foundation grant for Chromebooks, which was later doubled by OtterBox, and getting a grant from Noosa for nutrition and wellness classes.

“One of my biggest beliefs is that students should be informed. I want them to make healthy lifestyle choices,” she explains. “I really want them to gain real-life skills and to be able to think through any situation that’s thrown at them. I want them to know where to find accurate information and how to use that information in a way that will actually help them.”

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What’s NEW at Front Range Classical Ballet?

• Classes by appointment and sign-up only.

• Class sizes limited • Masks required for all classes except for medical exemptions • Private and Semi-private lessons available • Zoom private, semi-private and group lessons available FOR YOUR SAFETY • High-touch surfaces disinfected between classes • In-studio air purifier running • Open studio air flow, weather permitting.

VISIT FRCBALLET.COM TO REGISTER!

970.980.8425 | 3501 South Mason Street Unit 1 | Fort Collins

classes

mptions

ate lessons

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JUNE 2021

EVENTS CALENDAR Please check websites for the status of the following events as cancelations or postponements may have been announced after our publication date.

FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS

THROUGH SEPTEMBER One Sweet Summer Event Series Live music concerts, outdoor dining, kids’ days, fitness classes and more. All ages.

The Foundry Plaza, Downtown LV. Days/ times vary. www.downtownloveland.org/ onesweetsummer.

WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS & FRIDAYS, JUNE 2 THROUGH JULY 30 Kids Feeding Kids Summer Breakfast Program Free healthy breakfast and fun, educational and social activities for children and their families, especially those in need of healthy, delicious food during the summer.

Registration required. FoCo Café, 225 Maple St., FC. 9–10:30am. www.facebook.com/FoCoCafe/events.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9 Promenade Kids Day Activities, treats and giveaways on the lawn for. Ages 1–13. Promenade Shops at Centerra, Main Plaza, between Bent Fork & Build-A-Bear, LV. 11am– 2pm. www.ThePromenadeShopsAtCenterra. com/events.

THROUGH AUGUST 8 HPLD Summer Reading Adventure Choose individual/family, group/class options, select your reading challenges, then earn badges/rewards for reading, attending events and completing activities.

High Plains Library District, GR. https://highplains.beanstack.org/reader365.

JUNE 24 THROUGH JULY 4 Greeley Stampede Festival featuring rodeo entertainment, carnival, live concerts, children’s activities, Independence Day parade, fireworks and more! Island Grove Regional Park, 600 N. 14th Ave., GR. www.greeleystampede.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 1 Animal Fair at Windsor History Museum Help kickoff Clearview’s summer adventure program! Learn animal yoga poses, discover ancient animals that used to live in Windsor, meet wildlife rehabilitators, real animals and more. All ages. Registration required for time slots between 3–5pm https://clearviewlibrary.org/events.

LIBRARY & BOOK EVENTS

Libraries are open with limited hours and services plus designated curbside pick-up hours. Check websites for online/outdoor storytimes.

MONDAYS, JUNE 7 THROUGH JULY 26 Monday Outdoor Series Each week presents a new experience: African dances, musical performances, entertainers, dog tricks, etc. Registration required. Old Town Library/Library Park South Lawn, 201 Peterson St., FC. 10–11am. www.poudrelibraries.org.

JUNE 1 & 2 Chalk on the Wild Side—Animal Chalk Art Exhibit Create your Tails and Tales chalk masterpiece in Library Park. All ages/skill levels. Registration required. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 10am–4pm. www.poudrelibraries.org.

Spring Activities to Promote Vocabulary Skills: • Use descriptive language when talking about the weather and seasons with your child (hot, cold, rainy, wet, sunny, cloudy, etc.)

• Use action words to describe what your child is doing when playing outside (run, jump, hop, splash, skip, hide, etc.)

• Go for a walk and talk about the senses (“What do you see in the sky?”, “What does that flower smell like?”, “How does the grass feel?” etc.)

For more writing strategy resources go to csrckids.org 32

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970-419-0486 FORT COLLINS

1330 Oakridge Drive, #10 LOVELAND

1511 E. 11th Street, #290

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JUNE 1 THROUGH 30 Story Stroll: VAMOS! Let’s Go Eat Follow the map to see the story unfold in this free self-guided tour for kids/ caregivers, plus a seek and find scavenger hunt. Downtown FC. https://blog.poudrelibraries.org/story-stroll.

JUNE 1 THROUGH JULY 30 Clearview Summer Adventure Program: Tails and Tales Five hands-on activities or reading challenges to complete, and programs to keep you active–all centered around animals and stories. All ages. https://clearviewlibrary.org/sap-2666.

JUNE 1 THROUGH AUGUST 15 PRPLD Summer Reading Challenge: Tails and Tales Combining the love of animals and stories, summer fun comes roaring back this year with the Poudre River Public Library District! All ages. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. #200, FC. www.poudrelibraries.org/src.

Loveland Library Learning Colors Your World Kickoff Celebrate the start of the library’s summer learning program with fun activities, colorful treats, a “glow in the dark” dance party and more! All ages. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams, LV. 5–7pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

FRIDAY, JUNE 4 & 18 Rec & Tech Play with a large collection of tech toys, fly a drone, compete in a lawn game and make a craft. All ages. Children under 8 need to bring a grown-up. Overlook Park, 10007 CR 72, WS, 3–4pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5123918.

MONDAY, JUNE 7 NoCo Wildlife Rehabilitation Teens, join Northern Colorado Wildlife Center to learn about wildlife rehabilitation and animal emergency situations. Registration required.

Loveland Library lawn, 300 N. Adams, LV. 11am–Noon. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

FRIDAY, JUNE 11 Virtual Cookie Challenge for Tweens Demonstrate your cookie decorating skills and learn new techniques. Pick up a kit a week prior to use during virtual program: Registration required to receive kit and Zoom link. Ages 10–13. Council Tree Library Zoom meeting, 2733 Council Tree Ave. #200, FC. 2–3:30pm. www.poudrelibraries.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 8 Wild Animal Sanctuary Hear from the world’s oldest and largest sanctuary dedicated to rescuing captiveborn large carnivores with 600+ rescued animals and located just down the road near Keenesburg. All ages. Clearview Library Zoom meeting. 6:30–7:30pm.

970-686-5603. Register for link: https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5126400.

FRIDAY, JUNE 4 Grand Opening of The Treehouse Calling all 3rd, 4th and 5th graders… before the library summer kickoff party, visit the grand opening of a new hangout for you! Meet other kids, check out the space, enter to win a prize and grab a prepackaged snack. Loveland Library 300 N. Adams, LV. 4–5pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9 IMAGINANTES X: Get prepped to get hired /¡Prepárate para que te contraten!

Virtual presentation offers tools to be successful in your job search. Ages 14–18.

Register for Zoom link. Free pizza to first 20 enrolled teens. Spanish interpretation available. Poudre River Public Library District Zoom meeting. 3–4pm.

970-221-6740. www.poudrelibraries.org.

Loveland Library Teen Summer Celebration Kick off summer on the lawn with a community art project, cotton candy and more! First 50 teens at the Teen Hangout receive free stainless steel water bottle. Loveland Library 300 N. Adams, LV. 5–7pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 Getting Crafty: Animal Pencil Topper Celebrate tails of animals by making an animal to top your pencils. Registration required to receive kit and Zoom link in advance. Ages 6–12. Clearview Library Zoom meeting, 4:30–5pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5109633.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 11 Teen Gardens on Spring Creek Tour Teens tour 12 acres of botanic gardens and 300+ tropical butterflies! Registration required. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1:30–3pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

MONDAY, JUNE 14 Teen Sewing Workshop: Lanyards Get certified on teen tinkerLAB sewing machines and create your own personal lanyard. Registration required. Loveland Library, Gertrude Scott Meeting Room, 300 N. Adams, LV. 11am–3pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

Teen Cooking Challenge: Watermelon Syrup and Ice Cream You’re challenged to make historic watermelon syrup and homemade ice cream. Ages 12–18. Registration required.

Windsor History Museum at Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., WS. 4:30–5:30pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5109735.

TUESDAY, JUNE 15 Teen Yoga on the Lawn Learn basic yoga poses and practice positive thinking outdoors. Please bring a towel/yoga mat, water, sunscreen, and wear comfy clothes. Registration required.

Loveland Library lawn, 300 N. Adams, LV. 10:30–11:30am. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

W.O.L.F. Sanctuary Discover the basics of wolf biology, behavior and ecology with Bellvue, Colorado’s W.O.L.F. Sanctuary and meet an animal ambassador. Held outdoors, weather permitting. All ages. Greenspace between Mountain View Elemenary and Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd Ave., WS. 6:30–7:30pm. 970-686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5126702.

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 The Arts and the Great Outdoors for Tweens Explore Fort Collins Natural Areas with a guided hike, then mini workshop on music, poetry or visual arts in the great outdoors. Ages 10–13. Registration required. Riverbend Ponds Natural Area, 705 Cairnes Drive, FC. 10am–Noon.

970-221-6740. www.poudrelibraries.org.

MONDAY, JUNE 21 Virtual Whale Watch (with Take & Make Kits) Learn about whale behavior and the species of whales observed off the coast of Massachusetts (including humpbacks).

Take home kits include a whale craft and a blubber glove experiment. Ages 6–12 with families. Clearview Library Zoom meeting.

4:30–5:30pm. Registration required: https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5109679.

TUESDAY, JUNE 22 Teen Glass Suncatchers Create beautiful glass-fused suncatchers at Artisan You (meet at Library’s Teen Hangout). Registration required. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams, LV. 1–3pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

Let’s Go Fly a Kite Pick up a kite kit at the library and use the whole family’s creativity to decorate and assemble your kite. Then join group to fly new kites together. All ages. Main Community Park, 300 Locust St., WS. 4–5pm. Registration required: https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5109738.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 We Dream in STEAM: Design a Den Explore wildlife including foxes, beavers, bears, rabbits and others who make their home underground or in a den. Ages 9–12.

Clearview Library Zoom meeting. 4–5pm.

Registration required: https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5109674.

Teen Craft-a-Thon: Animal Wind Chimes Design and create your own wind chime.

Held outdoors, weather permitting. All ages. Greenspace between Mountain View Elemenary and Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd Ave., WS. 6–7pm. 970-686-5603 https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5108746.

THURSDAY, JUNE 24 Getting Crafty: Salt Watercolor Painting Celebrate tails of animals by creating a salt watercolor painting. Registration required to receive kit and Zoom link in advance.

Ages 6–12. Clearview Library Zoom meeting, 4:30–5pm. https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/5109636.

FRIDAY, JUNE 25 Teen Fired Pottery Workshop Use clay to hand build a cup, planter or bowl. Meet at Library’s Teen Hangout and walk together to Chilson Rec Center.

Registration required. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams, LV. 10:45am–1:15pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

Loteria Mexicana in the Park Hosted by Loveland Library, the whole family can play and win prizes. All ages.

Registration required. Necesita registrarse para participar. Dwayne Webster Veteran’s Park shelter # 1, 401 W. 13th St., LV. 5:30–7pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

Northern Colorado’s Favorite Parenting Magazine.

MONDAY, JUNE 28 Teen Rocket Science Build and decorate a film canister rocket.

Registration required. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams, LV. 11am–Noon. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 30 Teen Volunteer Project Give back to your community by creating hygiene care kits. Counts towards fulfilling volunteer service requirements for school, etc.

Registration required. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams, LV. 1–3pm. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org/events.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 26 Getting Crafty: Salt Watercolor Painting Let’s be nimble and quick for some Mother Goose outdoor fun. All ages. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 1pm and 2pm. http://mylibrary.evanced.info/signup.

CONNECT TO NATURE

MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS The Gardens Read and Seed Garden storytime, movement/song plus a hands-on, nature-inspired activity. Ages 2–4 with adult. Registration required. Free/ members; $8/non-member child; $11/ nonmember adult (includes gardens/butterfly house.) Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 11:15–Noon. www.fcgov.com/gardens/read-and-seed.

SATURDAY, JUNE 5 Greeley Fishing Derby Grab your family, fishing poles and tackle and join in the free derby. Prizes given away every half hour including two bicycles! Fishing licenses not necessary. All ages. Sanborn Park, 2031 28th Ave., GR. 8am–Noon (registration begins 7:30am.) www.greeleycalendar.com.

Loveland Fishing Derby Free kids fishing derby, raffles, education from local organizations. No fishing license required. Under age 15. North Lake Park Duck Pond, 2750 N. Taft Ave., LV. 8am–3pm. www.lovgov.org/services/ police/community-programs/fishing-derby.

Windsor Fishing Derby Kids get to take up to two fish (of the 250 newly introduced) and get a free hot dog, chips and drink. Bring a pole and any equipment you’ll need. Ages 2–12. $5.

Registration required. Eastman Park, 7025 Eastman Park Dr., WS. 10am–Noon. www.recreationliveshere.com/calendar.

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9 Journaling the Nature Experience Whether capturing the distant mountain landscape or the close flora and fauna, nature journaling helps develop an appreciation of nature. No art experience required. Ages 9+. Children under 16 must be accompanied by adult. Registration required. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, FC. 9–11am. www.fcgov.com/events.

SATURDAY, JUNE 12 Astronomy & Skygazing Enjoy a brief, family-friendly astronomy activity followed by skygazing. Volunteers from the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society provide telescopes. Registration required. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, FC. 9–11pm. www.fcgov.com/events.

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 Skygazing Volunteers from the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society provide telescopes and share their knowledge about the stars, planets, galaxies and more. Registration required. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, FC. 9:30–11:30pm. www.fcgov.com/events.

SATURDAY, JUNE 19 Loveland Garden Tour & Art Show Garden art sale, silent auction and tour five beautiful homes in downtown Loveland with gardens demonstrating sustainable gardening techniques, including lowwater landscapes, organic vegetable and flower beds and wildlife habitats. $20-35.

Loveland Youth Gardeners, 2500 E. 1st Street, LV. 8am-2p. www.lovelandyouthgardeners.org/ loveland-garden-tour.

SUNDAY, JUNE 20 Father’s Day Garden Tours Weather permitting, enjoy the garden and its seasonal delights. Guides will answer gardening questions. Treasure Island Demonstration Garden, 31500 Laku Lake Rd. next to Eastman Park South, WS. 1:30–3:30pm. www.recreationliveshere.com/calendar.

THURSDAY, JUNE 24 Fireflies Fort Collins is home to one of Colorado’s largest firefly populations. Check them out on this easy 1–2 mile walk on unpaved trails near the full moon with lots of natural light! All ages. Registration required. Riverbend Ponds Natural Area, Prospect Road parking lot, 2856 E. Prospect Rd., FC. 8:30pm. www.fcgov.com/events.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 30 Ecosystem Wonders Learn to use a nature journal to capture ecosystem intricacies while you develop your art and observational skills. No art experience required. Ages 9+. Children under 16 must be accompanied by adult.

Registration required. Riverbend Ponds, Cairnes Dr. Entrance, 705 Cairnes Drive, FC. 9–11am. www.fcgov.com/events.

MUSEUM EVENTS

THROUGH JULY 24 Magical and Mythical Animals in Human Imagination The exhibit showcases drawings of magical and mythical animals by youth ages 5–16 from 13 different countries. All ages Global Village Museum, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. Appointments available 11am–4pm Wednesdays–Saturdays. www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

THROUGH SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 War Comes Home: The Legacy This traveling exhibition features private letters and email correspondence spanning conflicts from the Civil War through the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Explore the joys and hardships of wartime separation, the adjustment to life back at home, and the costs of war. Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St, GR. Thursday–Saturday 10am–4pm. www.greeleymuseums.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 3 Adult + Kid Combo Art Class: Game Changer Plan out a game board, paint it onto canvas, then make your unique game pieces. Ages 5–12 with parent/guardian. $40/non-members, $32/members. Beet Education Center at the Loveland Museum, 201 E. 5th St., LV. 10am–Noon.

970-962-2410, www.lovelandmuseum gallery.org/classes-camps-workshops.

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SATURDAY, JUNE 5 Mother Daughter Tea: Little Tea Party on the Prairie Come dressed in your best prairie dress for tea and tasty treats. Plus, decorate your own teacup, and visit the museum’s old farmhouse, one-room schoolhouse and train depot. Ages 3–12. $15. Windsor History Museum, 100 N 5th St., WS. 10–11:30am. 970-674-3500 www.recreationliveshere.com/calendar.

THURSDAY, JUNE 24 Adult + Kid Combo Art Class: Acrylic Paint Pour Make an amazing marbleized painting on canvas with a paint, glue and water mixture.

Ages 5–12 with parent/guardian. $40/nonmembers, $32/members. Beet Education Center at the Loveland Museum, 201 E. 5th St., LV. 10am–Noon. 970-962-2410 www.lovelandmuseumgallery.org/classescamps-workshops.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9 FCMoD Discovery Live: Ask an Engineer Tune in to Facebook Live to hear from a variety of guest experts, ask questions and discover science, history and art happening in your own backyard. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery Facebook Live. 5–6pm. www.facebook.com/focomod.

ENTERTAINMENT

JUNE 12 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 5 Life in One Cubic Foot Exhibit Experience the diversity of nature using “biocubes”—one-cubic-foot frames for surveying the animals and plants living in an ecosystem. Features stunning photographs, biocube-related objects and tools, animal models, hands-on interactive activities and videos. Free with general admission. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. www.fcmod.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 15 Virtual Presentation: Dragons and Demons–Could They be Real?

Denver award-winning author Natli VanDerWerken explores the history and evidence for dragons and demons. $5/ Zoom connection. All ages. Global Village Museum Zoom presentation. 6–7:30pm. www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 FCMoD Discovery Live: Ask a Scientist Tune in to Facebook Live to hear from a variety of guest experts, ask questions and discover science, history and art happening in your own backyard. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery Facebook Live. 5–6pm. www.facebook.com/focomod.

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THROUGH JUNE 6 Little Women Based on Louisa May Alcott’s novel, this Broadway musical follows the adventures of three sisters growing up in Civil War America, and conveys personal discovery, heartache, and hope. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Dr., Johnstown. Days/times vary. www.coloradocandlelight.com.

THROUGH SEPTEMBER One Sweet Summer Event Series Live music concerts, outdoor dining, kids’ days, fitness classes and more. All ages.

The Foundry Plaza, Downtown LV. Days/ times vary. www.downtownloveland.org/ onesweetsummer.

THURSDAYS, JUNE 3 THROUGH AUGUST 19 Windsor Summer Concert Series June’s lineup includes Twenty Hands High (country), Last Men on Earth (rock), Trent Hughes (country), and Funky Business (funk). Pre-registration may be required.

Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., WS. 6:30–8:30pm. www.recreationliveshere.com/calendar.

SATURDAY, JUNE 5 Garden Concert Series: Colorado Cello Quartet Off the Hook Arts presents a monthly socially distanced outdoor concert series experience through October. Seating is limited to 100 people. $30/person; $50/ duo. Various FC locations. Times vary. www.offthehookarts.org/gardenseries.

TUESDAY, JUNE 8 Inspire Dance Academy: Bring the Beat Back Inspiring dancers perform tap, jazz, ballet, acro, and hiphop. All ages. $15. Live streaming available. Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, 701 Tenth Ave GR. 6:30pm. 970-356-5000, https:// ucstars.showare.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 11 Movies in the Park: The Croods– A New Age Bring your lawn chair and blankets for a free movie night out with family and friends. Main Park, 300 Locust St., WS. 8:30pm. 970-674-3500 www.recreationliveshere.com/movies.

THURSDAY, JUNE 17 Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble One of America’s foremost modern dance companies, this ensemble performs a dynamic body of works inspired by the African American experience. $33. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm.

970-221-6730, www.lctix.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 Conservatory Dance Studio Spring Showcase Live streaming only showcase. All ages. $20. Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, livestream. 6pm. https://ucstars.showare.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 19 Loveland Dance Academy Spring Showcase All ages. Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, 701 Tenth Ave GR. 7:30pm. Live streaming only: 11am, 3pm for $20. 970-356-5000 https://ucstars.showare.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 25 Movies on Main Activities, treats and a movie on the lawn.

All ages. Promenade Shops at Centerra, Main Plaza, between Bent Fork & BuildA-Bear, LV. Activities 6:30pm; movie sundown ~8:30pm. www.ThePromenadeShopsAtCenterra. com/events.

Movies in the Park: Trolls World Tour Bring your lawn chair and blankets for a free movie night out with family and friends. Eastman Park, 7025 Eastman Park Dr., WS. 8:30pm. 970-674-3500 www.recreationliveshere.com/movies.

JUNE 26 THROUGH JULY 24 Ken Ludwig’s Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood All-out comic adventure of the beloved folktale presented by OpenStage Theatre & Company, $10–32. Performed at the park at Columbine Health Systems, FC. 7pm.

970-221-6730, www.lctix.com.

ACTIVE-ITIES

MONTHLY, THROUGH AUGUST 22nd Annual Healthy Kids Run Series Healthy Kids Club will provide participants with four 1-mile course maps at parks in Fort Collins and Loveland to complete anytime during the designated month, on their own. Ages 5+. May’s course: Fossil Creek Park, FC. www.healthykidsclub.org.

SATURDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER Yoga in The Gardens on Spring Creek Embrace the natural outdoor setting of the botanical gardens during this summer flow series. Registration required. All skill levels. Ages 13+. $15/class. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9–10am. 970-416-2486 www.fcgov.com/gardens/yoga.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 Bike to Work (or Wherever) Day Celebrate people riding bicycles! Bicyclists enjoy free breakfast at stations all around Fort Collins. 6:30am–9:30am. www.fcgov.com/bicycling.

FRIDAY, JUNE 25 Windsor Grind: Skateboard and Scooter Competition Old-fashioned skate contest with categories for both pre-teen (ages 9–12) and teen (ages 12–18) divisions. No entry fee, but registration/waiver required by June 22.

Eastman Park, 7025 Eastman Park Dr. WS, 1–3pm. www.recreationliveshere.com/calendar.

ONGOING RECREATION Estes Valley Recreation Explore swimming, golf, sports and fitness programs: https://evrpd.colorado.gov/recreation.

Fort Collins Recreation Discover a multitude of swimming, sports, skating and fitness opportunities: www.fcgov.com/recreation.

Greeley Recreation Check out swimming, ice skating, sports plus free virtual group fitness classes to all community members: www.greeleyrec.com.

Loveland Recreation Locate sports, fitness, swimming and more: www.cityofloveland.org/ departments/parks-recreation/chilsonrecreation-center.

Windsor Recreation Seek swimming, fitness and athletic programs: www.recreationliveshere.com.

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time out Memories persist as kids move on Taking time for reflection

KRIS KODRICH

I

somehow convinced my 16-yearold daughter, Bianka, to head up to Horsetooth Reservoir to have a little picnic with me the other day. To sell her on the idea, I had to buy her carryout from Noodles & Company. And I let her drive my Honda Fit so she could practice for her upcoming road test.

As we were sitting at a picnic table, admiring the lovely waterfront view, I said we should have picnicked at Horsetooth more often over the years, especially since the picturesque setting is just 10 minutes from our house.

“Whose fault is that?” asked Bianka, in her best snotty tone.

At first, I felt a pang of guilt—we should have done this more often. Work and the everyday stuff of life could wait.

But then I realized, we did our fair share of picnics over the years in local parks. Grill outs in the backyard count, too, don’t they? When the girls became teenagers, however, we no longer were in charge of their schedules.

Kalia, four years older than Bianka, broke out of most of the family stuff when she started high school. Occasionally we lure her back when it’s her birthday (gifts still matter!) or when we plan a trip to Mexico. (Who wouldn’t want a free trip to Playa del Carmen?)

So, when Bianka entered high school, the same trajectory began. Whatever excuse not to hang with us.

I miss those days when she was a middle-schooler and I could bribe her with a mere $5 to accompany me to a craft brewery. Now, as a part-time restaurant dishwasher who has absolutely no expenses, Bianka seems to have more expendable income than I do.

Lately, I am spending an inordinate amount of time reflecting on my daughters’ days growing up. Maybe it’s because my oldest brother in San Diego died last fall and I’ve been pondering

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the meaning of life. Perhaps it’s just the age of COVID-19, and everyone relishing the good, old pre-pandemic days.

As I reminisce, I miss simple things like reassuring the girls during thunderstorms, or helping them roast marshmallows over a bonfire, or watching the skies for shooting stars, or eating popcorn at the movie theater, or stopping for a treat at Dairy Queen or Culver’s after school.

Sometimes, I have to remind myself that I was a terrific parent who always did tons of stuff with my kids when they were young. We’d go to festivals, fairs, concerts and amusement parks. We’d hit the playgrounds, tot lots and city parks frequently. We’d go on bike rides. We’d go on adventures along rivers and creeks.

We’d explore forests. We’d go for weekends in the mountains.

In the winter, we went sledding.

I got them ski lessons and they loved it, quickly catching the snowboarding

bug, too. In the summer, we’d go to beaches. I signed them up for sleepover camps, camps at the zoo and aquarium and sports camps. They played volleyball and softball. They learned karate.

They did cheerleading lessons. My thinking was, I wanted to expose them to everything.

Admittedly, I probably forced too much upon them. Isn’t that what good dads were supposed to do? They started resisting a bit earlier than I had hoped.

Thus, I’m left clinging to the memories of all our adventures. I can’t pass a park these days without remembering pushing Kalia or Bianka on the swings or playing on a teeter-totter with them.

And don’t get me started on all our road-tripping, cross-country adventures, which, by the way, often involved picnics.

Kris Kodrich is a journalism professor at Colorado State University.

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