RM Parent August 2014

AUGUST 2014 • RMPARENT.COM

Last-minute ADVENTURES

Young brain

DEVELOPMENT

Health screens

FOR WOMEN

School lunch REBOOT

Teen

MENTAL HEALTH

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AUGUST 2014

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

Summer’s end—still time for fun before school starts

WOMEN’S HEALTH . . . . . . . . . 8 Warding off the top three threats—Big birthday coming up? You’re likely due for a test

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Summer ending too soon?—get out for a lastminute adventure

GIVE ME A BREAK . . . . . . . . 12 Trending toward health—the changing face of school lunches

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . 14 Life just keeps getting better here—NoCo communities focus on safety, wellness, health National Night Out, Estes installs electric-car charging stations, grant helps teens drive safely, handling hazardous household waste, community health and wellness partnership

NUTRITION . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Trending toward health—the changing face of school lunches

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

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

Relaxing vacations?—the good and the not-so-good of taking along children

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 New district information guide, early-release Wednesday eliminated, new high school schedules, district expands communication options, Agricultural Education Pathways Program, new principals

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Back-to-school information, registration and school-choice deadlines, school start dates, early release heat days, open houses and bus schedules, meal prices, school updates

Special Section PROGRAM & ACTIVITY GUIDE

AUGUST 2014 • RMPARE

NT.COM

Program & activity guide & back-toBack to School UPDATES school information PAGE 10 Find activities that Program Directory are right for your SCHOOL Calendars child in this extensive LIST OF guide of programs Advertisers throughout the region.

Plus, check out the changes that are coming to your district this fall—expanding programs, updated curricula, new schools, fresh leaders, online expansions and more...

PAGE 52

BY CATEGORY PAGE 24 ALPHABETICAL PAGE 26

PAGE 54

Features 18 SIMPLY SMART While certain windows for brain development have been identified, rest assured. It’s fairly hard to miss them. As long as you engage your child in everyday life, take advantage of teachable moments, make reading a habit and encourage free, imaginative play, he will jump through those windows easier than a game of leap frog.

20 POSITIVE MESSAGES Parents should nurture positive mental health

and self-images in their children so they have every chance at growing into well-adjusted adults. Unfortunately, the consequences can range from problems in school to large-scale, societal issues. Children who feel emotionally or physically unsafe, don’t thrive as well as their peers who feel secure.

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Video-entry systems, GED preparation courses, GAP graduation, School Year Kick Off Event

Lunchbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

ABOUT THE COVER: Evelyn, 3, likes swimming, riding bikes and art. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective Summer’s end

Still time for fun before school starts

I

look through the issue this month and I see three main things going on. You might think that I should know this before I look through the issue, but Kristin and the writers she works with come up with the story ideas and the editorial plan. I get an occasional, “Any ideas for stories, dear?” from Kristin, and that’s about it. So I’m happy that every month I’m excited by what I see in our editorial mix.

So back to the three things: We have some great back-to-school info including lunch ideas and our Back to School Guide, some end-of-the-summer activity ideas and a couple of development stories—one about infant brains and one about teen mental health. (And we have our usual extensive calendar, and community news and school district news that you won’t want to miss, and a nice story about women’s health screenings.)

BACK TO SCHOOL In our Back to School Guide, Katie Harris has collected information about new faces and places. She also digs in on general procedures and what’s going on in each district. Check out what’s going on in your district. Also in that guide, don’t miss the extensive listings of programs and activities for your children (and take a look at the list of all the advertisers who would like you to try out their programs too!) Richard Keller looks at what’s trending at school-served lunches and in sack lunches.

END OF THE SUMMER ADVENTURES Related to heading back to school is this sense that summer vacation is winding down. Every year, it seems, we hit this point and wonder what happened to all those vague (but vivid) plans we had for our summer outings...you know, we were going to get to the mountains more, or we were going to go rafting or hiking or biking and on and on... Well Kim Sharpe offers some words of encouragement and same suggestions about how to round out the year. And Kim Lipker gives you a list of ideas so you can just get out and do it...that last hurrah!

THE BRAIN THING And finally the cerebral stories...well the ones about the brain and mental development. Lynn Nichols dives into infant brains. One thing that grabbed my attention was that you don’t need to fret...just keep the little ones with you and talk about what you’re doing and ask a few questions along the way.

She puts a lot more in there than that, but the basic idea that with a little help and encouragement, infants are well-prepared to thrive and learn with their ballooning (my term, so don’t blame Lynn) brains. And it turns out that teens are wired to thrive too and they too need a supportive environment. That’s our job! Their mental health, and therefore chances of success, is tied pretty closely to their sense of security and level of stress. Makes sense to me.

Anyway, that pretty much sums up the issue.

Thanks for reading, Scott 6

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AUGUST 2014 • Volume 19, Issue 3 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CALENDAR EDITOR Kim Sharpe calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt Sharon Klahn, Kyle Moyer COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Richard Keller, Kim Lipker, Lynn U. Nichols, Kim Sharpe

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2014 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

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women’s health

Warding off the top three threats Big birthday coming up? You’re likely due for a test LY N N U. N I C H O L S

D

id you know getting a regular pap smear almost guarantees you won’t ever get cervical cancer? Most cases of cervical cancer are in women who neglected getting a pap for five years or more.

If you’ve hit a milestone or are approaching one, it’s time to think about health screens. A little prevention can help ward off the top three health threats for women: heart disease, breast cancer and osteoporosis. Consider these tests through the ages: 30S In your 30s you don’t have to worry about any special tests. Just keep up with the routine ones, including a physical and pap smear every three years after age 21. You should also consider a blood pressure and cholesterol check; do these every one to five years depending on results from here on out.

40S Sad to say, but with that 40th birthday your body starts showing signs of aging.

Plan on getting the usual physical, pap smear every three years, and blood pressure check from one to five years depending on your personal health history and your doctor recommendations. With the pap, get an HPV (human papilloma virus) test every five years. If you are sexually active with multiple partners, consider other STD tests as well. If you have high blood pressure, get screened for diabetes.

It’s also not a bad idea to add an annual stool occult blood test—a simple test you can even do at home—to screen for colon cancer yearly.

With mammograms, you’ve got a decision to make. While the federal guidelines suggest getting a mammo every two years starting at age 50, you should consider your own risk factors for breast cancer. Recommendations changed from years past be-

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cause mammograms often provoked additional testing on non-cancerous cysts—and because breast cancer numbers are higher in later years. Yet there are many women who get breast cancer in their 40s (some with no family history whatsoever), so getting screened isn’t a bad idea. Talk with your doctor and make an informed decision.

Self-breast exams are still a good idea. Checking breasts in the shower takes mere seconds and there are plenty of women who have found suspicious lumps that carry the telltale signs of being firm and not tender and sticking around through several cycles.

50S Now is when the fun begins. Several tests are added to your list, including a regular (every two year) mammogram, a baseline colonoscopy, and a bone density test (if your doctor deems it necessary). At this point you should be getting regular cholesterol, diabetes and blood pressure checks. Depending on your personal risk for diabetes and heart disease, you will likely need these tests yearly.

If results of your colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy are good, you won’t need another for five to ten years. This is a good

test not to blow off, as colorectal cancer rates increase markedly after 50. Chances increase with a history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and polyps. A bonus is that you can wait until you’re 65 to get a bone density scan for osteoporosis.

Finally, the 50s often bring menopause and with it, a decision on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Estrogen and progesterone were given widely pre2000 to ward off menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.

Yet in 2002, new discoveries of health risks—such as an increased chance of osteoporosis, colorectal cancer and heart disease—put the stops on common use of HRT. In the last few years, a strong link between HRT and breast cancer was established. According to breastcancer.org, combination HRT increases breast cancer risk by about 75 percent, even when used for only a short time. Some women choose estrogen only, but that can also have risks. If you have severe hot flashes or other side effects from menopause, talk to your doctor about all your options.

Now that you know what’s headed your way with each new decade, take charge of your health with a few preventive tests. Stay healthy!

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family activities

Summer ending too soon?

Get out for a last-minute adventure

KIM LIPKER

A

re you feeling like summer has flown by and you’re looking at August with a mix of emotions. The kiddos are headed back to school soon, and there are still a few things you haven’t done yet. Try to fit in a few last-minute adventures.

Here’s a start: GO PADDLEBOARDING Chances are that you’ve heard of someone that has tried stand up paddleboard or SUP. Rentals and lessons are available at Horsetooth; and the lessons are highly recommended for SUP newbies. Local companies also rent paddleboards that you can transport to Horsetooth or any pond or lake.

ORGANIZE A LIBRARY Visit the library and get everyone back into the reading mode if you’ve fallen out of the habit this summer. Or, stay put, and you can create a library right at home.

Gather all of your books and sort them according to categories or alphabetically. Decide on an easy symbol for each category and put an identifier on the spine of each book. Have your child help create checkout slips or bookmarks for each book. You can then take turns browsing for books, checking out books and bringing them back. Picking a favorite category and having story time with music and props is also fun.

GO CAMPING Find your favorite local camping spot or plan an indoor/outdoor camping staycation. If it’s raining or too hot outside, set up your tent or a makeshift tent in one of your rooms and camp out during the day. Tell stories, pretend like you are going exploring 10

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and try to rough it. For meals, eat around a pretend campfire and be sure to go to sleep in your sleeping bags. This same scenario can always be moved to the yard.

GO TO THE BEACH A variation on the above pretend camping trip is to pretend that you are going on a beach vacation. Get everyone involved in planning. Set

up an airplane in your kitchen with chairs and fly to your favorite tropical resort. Pack suitcases with swimming suits and beach gear. Check into your hotel and change into your swimming suits. Turn on some beach music and dance. Serve pineapple, tropical flavored drinks and have a luau for dinner. Take pictures.

TAKE A CUE FROM OTHER FAMILIES We all have summer-activity favorites. Make your list, ask friends and other families for ideas and get going.

There’s Fort Fun, Estes Park, Water World, or you can hike, bike, picnic, go to free concerts, have a Denver day, visit Poudre Canyon, check out the Drive-In Theatre and back-toschool shopping to name a few.

MAKE UP A CABIN FEVER BIN When the weather is bad, or when someone is sick, a cabin fever bin full of surprises can help break up the day.

Good things to put in your cabin fever bin are: • Fresh, new art supplies (paper, sharp crayons, paints, stickers, play dough, paintbrushes, and coloring book) • A new toy, books, music, videos, games • Costumes from Halloween or old dressup clothes • Cookie cutters and a simple cookie recipe • Supplies and directions for a new game or craft (preassemble all supplies and store them in a Ziploc bag in the Cabin Fever Bin until ready to use).

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give me a break

Time to recharge the batteries Cut the ties and set sail into end-of-the-summer adventures KIM SHARPE

I

s your summer bucket list near empty or still brimming with things you want to do? Unfortunately, mine is on the full side.

You see, our family spends most of our spare time renovating a 33-foot sailboat with the intent of making it our primary residence one day. We plan to sell our northern Colorado home and set sail in the deep blue sea to explore other cultures and do life differently. While this is an exciting goal and there’s light at the end of the tunnel leading us to believe this might actually happen, sacrifices have been made in the “fun-weekend-activities” category.

We used to sit down early each spring with a calendar and plan out a summer’s worth of adventures, including car camping trips, backpacking excursions, mountain biking treks, rock climbing and canoeing. We left only a little space for necessary home projects that tether us to town. We knew if we weren’t intentional about designating certain weekends for specific activities, the summer would slip by without our taking advantage of time for family fun.

Since acquiring our boat three years ago, however, we lost the tether, gained an

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anchor and chain, and threw the activity calendar out the window.

We haven’t been to the mountains or anywhere else this summer; our gear and outdoor toys are gathering way too much dust. I’m pining for the delicious fragrance of Blue Spruce and Ponderosa (pun intended), however, I do take consolation in knowing that missing a few campouts will be worth it once we’re sailing the ocean blue. Plus there’s still time to squeeze in a bit of R & R, because the month of August leaves us Coloradans with several more weeks of Indian summer days to enjoy.

So before the snow f lies, we will take a break from never-ending boat work to enjoy the place in which we live today.

We will sleep in our tent and wake to the sounds of nature. We will take time to recharge our batteries and I don’t mean the ones associated with laptops, iPhones and iPads. We will leave all of those digital devices at home to escape from the constant chatter of email, text messages, Facebook and Twitter. The only tweeting and chattering I want to listen to is made by birds and squirrels.

Did you hear that? That’s my outside voice, so I really mean it.

If you’ve allowed projects big or small, or simply lack of planning, to rob you and your family of some summer fun, join me in taking steps toward some down time, whatever that looks like in your world. And remember, “All work and no play is no good at all.” Cheers to some late summer adventures!

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community news

Life just keeps getting better here NoCo communities focus on safety, wellness, health KIM SHARPE

A consistent theme in northern Colorado is improving life for its residents.

From crime prevention to safe driving to providing healthy environments, a myriad of programs and initiatives help people make choices beneficial for their well-being. Here are just a few: NATIONAL NIGHT OUT TAKES PLACE AUGUST 5 Northern Colorado law enforcement agencies are seeking participants for this year’s National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5. This will be the 31st year for the National Night Out campaign, designed as a crime and drug prevention event for neighborhoods. The Larimer County Sheriff ’s Office and Larimer County government along with the cities of Estes Park, Fort Collins and Loveland are hosting local events. The Evans Fire Protection District and Evans Police Department are sponsoring events in that Weld County community.

Each year, the National Night Out campaign aims to encourage local citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials to work together to help increase awareness of local and national crimes, and educate residents on drug prevention tips. Over 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide participate in the National Night Out. In addition to the crime and drug prevention awareness, the National Night Out:

• Generates support and encourages participation in local anti-crime programs • Strengthens neighborhood spirit and law enforcement-community partnerships • Sends a message to criminals to let them know neighborhoods are organizing and fighting back.

Neighborhoods can participate in the Na14

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tional Night Out in many ways including having block parties, cookouts, flashlight walks and organizing fun activities for kids. Local law enforcement officials visit local neighborhood events to educate residents on crime prevention tips.

Neighborhoods or groups in Larimer County interested in participating in this year’s event should contact Barbara Bennett, coordinator of the Sheriff ’s Auxiliary Unit, at 970-682-0597. For additional information, or for tips on planning your neighborhood’s National Night Out, visit http://larimersheriff. org/site-page/national-night-out.

Residents in Evans must register their events at http://www.evanscolorado .gov/police/national-night-out-registrationform or call Evans Police Officer Yates at 970-475-1145.

TOWN OF ESTES PARK INSTALLS ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING STATIONS The Town of Estes Park recently installed two electric car chargers on the north side of the Town Hall parking lot.

The chargers are located in two parking spots, designated by signs and the letters “EV” painted on the spaces. Charging will be offered at no cost for the first year, followed by a tentative fee of $1 per hour for use in subsequent years. Typically it takes approximately three hours to charge a vehicle to 100 percent.

Eight additional charging stations are expected to be included within the future parking structure at the Estes Park Visitor Center, 500 Big Thompson Ave. The charging stations were made possible by a $6,260 grant from the State of Colorado Energy Office. The Town continues to pursue grants for other projects that encourage environmental sustainability.

For more information on this project, please contact Joe Lockhart at 970-577-3613.

HANDLING HAZARDOUS HOUSEHOLD WASTE The Household Hazardous Waste Facility (HHW) at the Larimer County Landfill is a busy place during summer months as people work on household projects that involve a variety of paints, cleaners and other chemicals. While the HHW is the proper place to dispose of leftover chemicals, certain guidelines exist to insure the safety of both customers and HHW staff who are sorting and handling the incoming waste.

If you plan to use the HHW facility, know it serves Larimer County residents who have items to dispose of from their personal use. It is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 9am to 4pm. Customers are advised to follow these guidelines in preparing, packaging and transporting materials:

• Items must be typical household chemicals such as paint, stain, cleaners, lawn and garden chemicals, etc.

• The per-visit limit is 30 gallons measured by the size of the containers, not the amount in the containers. Containers larger than five gallons are not accepted.

• If containers are not labeled but the contents are known, the container should be marked with that information.

• Original containers that are leaking should be placed in a bucket or other suitable container.

• Chemicals delivered in garbage bags won’t be accepted. Placing chemicals in garbage bags is very dangerous as items have the potential to leak and possibly mix together. This can cause an unsafe and dangerous situation during transport and for HHW staff.

• Do not mix chemicals together; bring them in their original container if possible.

• Items should be placed upright in a sturdy box, if not leaking, or in a plastic tote.

• Remove lids from empty containers and place the lids and containers in your regular trash.

If you have questions or have waste that is not from your personal use, please call 970-498-5760 for more information before taking items to the HHW. Used automotive oil and transmission fluid may be placed in the used oil tank located across the parking lot from the HHW building. The tank is selfservice and available during regular landfill hours (8am to 4:30pm, Monday through Saturday.) Only used automotive oil and transmission fluid should be placed in the tank. Other automotive fluids such as antifreeze, gasoline, gas and oil mix, and cooking oil should be taken to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility during its regular operating hours.

For further information, contact Hammett at lhammett@larimer.org; 970-498-5760.

DRIVE SMART WELD COUNTY RECEIVES STATE FARM GRANT TO HELP TEENS DRIVE SAFELY Drive Smart Weld County recently received a $25,000 grant from State Farm for its Teen Driving Program. Drive Smart Weld County is using the grant to purchase a virtual driving simulator and provide safe driving classes to parents and teens.

The simulator gives students and adults a first-hand account of the real life consequences of distracted and impaired driving. The simulator will be used in Weld County high school teen driving programs, Aims Community College and University of Northern Colorado presentations, traffic and safety community events, and special training programs by law enforcement.

Parent and Teen Driver Classes (PTD) will provide parents and teens information about the State of Colorado Graduated Driver’s License Laws.

Greeley State Farm Agent Melissa McDonald says, “I am really impressed with the PTD classes that teach parents about setting expectations, boundaries and outlining positive consequences for making safe driving choices.

The grant also provides funding for a new 2014-15 school year teen driving challenge for Weld County high schools.

It’s a friendly competition whereby students use their creativity to address general driving concerns ranging from seat belt use and traffic laws to the danger of driving while distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The best projects earn students cash prizes and recognition.

Since 2001, Drive Smart Weld County has received more than $93,000 in external grants for child passenger and teen driver safety education programs. More information on Drive Smart Weld County can be found at www.drivesmartweldcounty.com.

COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS PARTNERSHIP FORMED The City of Fort Collins Recreation Department has formed a community health and wellness partnership with Columbine Health Systems (Columbine) and University of Colorado Health (UCHealth). The partnership will enable the Recreation Department to upgrade health and wellness programs while increasing service levels. Columbine and UCHealth were selected to manage the programs after a comprehensive search process. The amped-up health and wellness services will be based out of the newly expanded Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Drive. The partnership was developed in response to increasing health and wellness needs.

Health and wellness programmatic offerings will be placed into three broad categories to meet the needs and

interests of the community: Health Awareness, Lifestyle Management, and Wellness and Education. Decades of experience and access to top health and wellness experts provides both Columbine and UCHealth a strong foundation to create and deliver high quality programs.

Yvonne Myers, Columbine Health Systems director, says, “Columbine and UCHealth are looking forward to providing high-quality, evidenced-based programs using our collective expertise, staff talent and passion for our community.”

The City of Fort Collins Recreation Department believes that the timing of this project aligns well with the community’s needs. Bob Adams, recreation director, elaborates, “This unique partnership will provide community members improved access to high-quality health and wellness programs. As you’ve heard ‘Boomers’ are active and place a high priority on their health. We’re prepared to provide this large (and growing) population a place to pursue active lifestyles and engage in positive, life enriching programs and activities.”

Information regarding health and wellness programs are included in the City’s fall “Recreator” (its recreation listings guide), which was released last month. Individuals can register for programs beginning August 7. Register online at www.fcgov.com/recreator, in person at the Fort Collins Senior Center or by calling 970-221-6644.

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nutrition Trending toward health The changing face of school lunches

RICHARD KELLER

D

o you hear that? The sound of young parents’ sighs as they turn the calendar to August?

It’s not long before their children switch out pails and shovels for lunch bags and backpacks.

This is my fourth year writing about the annual ritual of the school lunch. In past columns I’ve discussed alternatives to the standard sandwich/fruit/drink combination, healthier meals and some of the new technologies that are keeping lunches fresher throughout the day. In other words, the world of the school lunch continues to change.

And why shouldn’t it? Other than recess or physical education, lunchtime is one of the most important periods in a child’s school day. Without the proper foods, or any foods for that matter, children can suffer both academically and socially. This is why both school districts and corporations are tweaking the way they handle this time of day. Here are a few of the newer trends going on locally as well as across the country.

BROWN FOR GREEN The Poudre School District no longer serves fries. Well, regular fries that is. Instead, they serve baked sweet potato fries.

In addition, students need to stop at the salad bar and pick at least two items from it before they can head into the main line.

This is the trend that is spreading across Colorado as well as the nation.

This is pumping better vitamins and minerals into the students’ bodies, thus giving them a boost of energy for the rest of the day.

SO LONG, SANDWICH. The sandwich is no longer the king of the school lunch. These days you can find packages that contain a starch, dairy and some form of fruit. Should sandwiches be included they’re on whole

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wheat or multi-grain breads that are minus high-fructose corn syrup and contain lean cuts of meat and healthier cheeses.

Due to the increase of gluten-type allergies you’re also seeing an increase of students bringing many produce-based items to lunch. And the drinks they’re pulling from their lunch bags are not fruit punch or other sugary products.

Many kids are grabbing non-refrigerated milks from their cupboards to include as part of their daily meal.

place it in the microwave before dropping the kids at the bus stop.

Another new product is the Warmables lunch kit. This organic and BPAfree option provides a container to store home-cooked meals, and an insulated bag and two small bags to store cherry pits and smaller items stored near the meal.

CARRY ON The standard soft-skinned lunch bag with your child’s favorite character – at least for this year – is still king among totes. However, technology has gotten to the point that their salads are no longer wilted and their leftover pasta is no longer cold. Companies like Cryopak now sell reusable ice/heat packs that can be placed in lunch bags. For keeping things cool you would place the pack in the freezer. For keeping them hot you would

Online sources for school lunch recipes

There are two reasons for preparing humdrum school lunches. One, there isn’t enough time in the day or night to do so. Two, you don’t know of any sites that offer school lunch recipes. Look no further, here are a number of online locations offering unique recipes that will make your children’s friends envious.

Food Network – The 15 kid-approved lunches on this site include the semi-basic chicken salad and ham sandwich to items like sesame-pecan chicken strips, peanut butter crackers with glazed grapes and even fruit leather roll-ups.

bon appétit – It’s not always beautiful meals for beautiful people at this website. The school lunch alternatives here include turkey salad rolls, corn and zucchini fritters and sushi made with avocado, carrot and cucumber.

Good Housekeeping – The king, or should we say queen, of all things home has over two dozen recipes to keep your children excited for school lunch. Items include turkey meatball pitas, turkey melon wraps, corn and tomato chowder and whole grain ginger snaps.

Join us for mountains of

fun this fall!

a great place to grow

Registar for fall gymnastics and dance camps 970.482.3118 www.mountainkids.com

Join us for a jumping good time this fall

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A

s a parent of a baby or young toddler you may feel tempted to go overboard with activities and toys in order to stimulate his or her brain. After all, experts talk about windows when it comes to brain development, and if you miss them your child doesn’t get a second chance. Poof. Those synapses are gone! Now that’s pressure.

While certain windows for brain development have been identified, rest assured. It’s fairly hard to miss them.

As long as you engage your child in everyday life, take advantage of teachable moments, make reading a habit and encourage free, imaginative play, he will jump through those windows easier than a game of leap frog.

“There’s so much you can do in your daily life to feed your young child’s brain. You don’t have to pack their schedules or sign up for expensive classes. Kids develop and learn through playing and being active,” says Dr. Christina Lang, an internist /pediatrician at University of Colorado Health Internal Medicine and Pediatrics in Fort Collins.

From ages zero to 3, your child’s brain is rapidly growing. When she turns 3, she’ll have about 1,000 trillion pathways or synapses—twice as many 18

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as you have as an adult. Research shows that your child’s head circumference dramatically increases to accommodate language centers in the brain between 2 and 3 years of age. All this growth equals amazing “sponge” power to soak up everything you throw her way.

“Parents can feel tremendous pressure wondering if they are doing enough. Taking care of babies and toddlers is very time consuming in itself, so don’t worry. Simply taking advantage of

Toddler brain games

the teachable moments that life brings, and engaging your child as you go about your daily life, is all it takes,” she adds.

ENGAGE IN LIFE Studies show that the more you talk with your child the easier time he will have learning and making connections in his world. Researchers found that babies with mothers who frequently spoke to them learned almost 300 more words by age 2 than their peers. Yet,

Want some fresh ideas on simple ways to feed your toddler’s brain? Try one of these, offered by Bright Beginnings and the Ages & Stages Questionnaire completed at well-child checks by pediatricians: Toys peeking out. Cover a toy but leave a part of it sticking out, like its wheels or feet. Then ask, ‘Can you find the dinosaur?’ This challenges your child to identify a part of a whole.

Create a face. Use paper to cut out a round face, two eyes, a nose and a mouth.

Assemble. This helps her recognize parts of herself and recreate them with paper.

Making Os and Xs. Use a rope on the floor to form a circle or trace the rim of a cup with his finger. This activity teaches shapes and encourages him to distinguish one shape from another.

Play with balls. Play a game where you give directions for your child to follow, such as ‘Roll the ball, kick the ball, throw the ball, bounce the ball, catch the ball.’

Then let her give you similar directions.

Dress up time. Visit a second-hand clothing store and stock up on dress-up clothes. Look for old Halloween costumes, hats and props like fans and belts. This old favorite is still one of the best imaginary games around.

there’s a catch: it has to come from a real live person, not the television or another media device. Reading, singing and rhyming also help develop early literacy.

“Tell your toddler what steps you are taking as you make dinner. Being involved is always better than watching, so have her stir the muffin mix or pour in the flour. Interacting stimulates the brain by helping toddlers learn to follow directions. It also reinforces healthy eating habits,” Lang says.

Children with a wide knowledge base of the world are better prepared to enter school. Having a variety of experiences enhances their ability to handle problems and solve questions because they can make a connection to past experiences.

Lang encourages parents who are bilingual to speak their native language at home: “Kids under age 4 or 5 can pick up multiple languages without any accents,” she exclaims.

BE MINDFUL OF TEACHABLE MOMENTS As you move through your day with your baby or toddler, look for opportunities to teach or engage. For example, picking up fruit and naming it and letting your child touch it is easy to do and takes mere seconds.

Consider all five senses. Every child learns differently—some are auditory, others visual or tactile. Make a point of saying things like, ‘What do you see over there?’ Or, ‘What does that rock feel like?’

To promote early math skills, look for ways to teach sequencing, cause-andeffect and shapes and sizes. For example, having your toddler put a napkin at every plate helps him learn one-to-one correspondence. Explaining your plans for getting dressed in a step-by-step process (‘First, we put on your shirt, second we put on your shorts…’) teaches sequencing. Having him feel that the book is hard and the pillow is soft, or the Tupperware lid is round and the tissue box is square helps teach shapes.

“There’s lots of simple, inexpensive ways to teach cause and effect, like cutting a hole in a shoe box and using it as a mailbox to put things in and out or holding a ping pong ball down in the

bathtub and watching it pop up,” Lang adds.

ENCOURAGE LOTS OF FREE, IMAGINATIVE PLAY While structured interaction targeted to teach certain skills is important, free play is just as vital to developing your toddler’s brain. Free play is open-ended and child-led—and often involves the imagination. When you play with your toddler, let her direct and make choices of what happens next. While playing, children are practicing processes that they are learning—helping to hardwire synapses in their brain.

Research has shown that when kids lack the chances for unstructured, imaginative play, they are less happy and well-adjusted as adults. Free play has been shown to enhance how kids interact socially, solve problems and cope with stress.

“Playing is a child’s job. A lot of brain growth happens by simply going to the park and letting toddlers explore the equipment, interact with other kids, and experience the shift of light and dark in the shadows,” Lang adds.

One trick to fitting free play into a busy schedule is setting up your child with opportunities to play where you are. If you are making dinner, have a kitchen set up in the corner with pots, pans and plastic food, so your toddler can cook, too. If you are talking on the phone, give her a toy cell phone so she can imitate. When your phone rings, she can answer hers, too.

READ TO YOUR CHILD, EVEN YOUR INFANT “The American Academy of Pediatrics states that reading from birth reinforces language development. That’s because language starts by hearing; our receptive skills form first,” Lang says.

Make it a habit to read to your baby or toddler every day. You can enhance what you read by pausing and asking your toddler open-ended questions, like: ‘What color is that house?’ or ‘What do you think will happen next?’ This interactive banter gets your child involved in the book and thinking. Remember to praise your child when they get it right and gently correct them when they don’t. If they call an apple a bapple you

can use the word correctly in a sentence, rather than correcting them, as in ‘I love to eat apples.’

Don’t be tempted to use flashcards, simply exposing your young child to language is enough. Kids that are read to early on develop pre-reading skills naturally, including vocabulary, print awareness, letters and sounds.

When reading, ask ‘Can you show me the moon?’ rather than telling them, ‘This is the moon,’” Lang suggests.

When you can, make connections between what you read and what you and your child experience in the real world. These connections strengthen learning pathways.

If you find yourself reading the same book over and over again, or only books on dinosaurs or princesses, don’t fret. It will all shift soon enough. Toddlers learn through repetition. By doing the same thing over and over again, they are processing information and hardwiring it in their brains.

“Remember, all kids are different so if your toddler isn’t exactly matching his same age cousin or friend, don’t stress too much about it. If you are really worried, check with your doctor,” Lang concludes.

UC Health sponsored this article.

Want more tools?

Take a Bright Beginnings class Bright Beginnings, a nonprofit devoted to positive parenting for infants through age 2, offers tools and learning games to parents interested in enhancing their young child’s brain development.

For upcoming classes, visit www. uchealth.org and click on Classes & Events. Search Bright Beginnings and multiple class options will show for Fort Collins and Loveland. Call 495-7500 to pre-register; classes are free. Parents receive a handbook of brain games and activities. Visit www. brightbeginningsusa.org for more general information.

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Posi+ive

Messages

Healthy family interactions promote strong teen brain development

Kim Sharpe

W

e are what we think,” teaches Buddha. Brian Mesinger, a pediatric psychologist with The Youth Clinic located in Fort Collins and Loveland, similarly says, “How we define ourselves hugely influences our motivations, attitudes and behaviors.”

If these statements hold true, it follows that parents should intentionally take care to nurture positive mental health and self-images in their children so they have every possible chance at growing into mentally well-adjusted adults. But what if one’s thought patterns aren’t healthy? What if they’re fragmented or damaged in some way? And what if someone has a low self-esteem?

Unfortunately, the consequences can range from problems in school to large-scale, societal issues. Research shows that children who feel emotionally or physically unsafe, don’t learn as well as their peers who feel secure.

Likewise, those who live in stressful environments are less likely to graduate from high school or college and go on to earn a sustainable, living wage. They also have a higher chance of struggling with 20

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substance abuse and being incarcerated at some point in their lives.

Based on teen self-reported data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one-fifth of all adolescents struggle with mental health issues and some level of harmful stress. The CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance indicates: • 5-8 percent of teens say they’re depressed • 17 percent of teens seriously consider attempting suicide • 8 percent attempt suicide • 15 percent say they’ve been electronically bullied • 20 percent say they’ve been bullied or feel unsafe at school.

“There’s a perception that the teenage years are rough for everybody and that it’s normal to be emotional and have hard times dealing with things, but this isn’t really the case,” says Rachel Lucan-Thompson, CSU Department of Human Development and Family Studies assistant professor. “Everyone has ups and downs, but teens who are mentally healthy deal with issues pretty well.”

Lucas-Thompson runs CSU’s Family Relationships and Development Lab where she studies how family relationships, especially those between parents, impact adolescent biological and mental development. Specifically, she’s trying to determine whether exposure to conflict between parents and poor quality parental relationships puts teens at risk for problems regulating responses to stress, causes them to give more attention to negative situations, and leads them to develop depression, anxiety and problem behaviors.

One way Lucas-Thompson collects data is by observing a parental couple having a discussion about a topic of contention, like finances or driving style. (The parents must be in a romantic relationship, but they don’t have to be married.)

While parents are having the discussion, their child who is between 10 and 14 years old, dons a cap that’s equipped with electrodes which measures brain activity and is seated in front of a computer screen where he views a series of images of people relating to one another in various

from the CSU study as it remains a work in progress; families can still sign up to participate in it. But “what we do know is that poor quality family environments are a really big risk factor for kids to develop mental health problems,” says Lucas-Thompson. And often, unhealthy interaction patterns are passed from generation to generation. That’s why it’s critical for families to be aware of their own history.

“Mental health, just like heart disease or diabetes or cancer, can be a multigenerational issue,” says Birnbaum.

“We need to recognize this and begin a society-wide process of destigmatizing the problem. We need to admit that we all have ‘schmutz,’ for lack of a better

talk “…during dinner, Saturday morning breakfasts, whenever. And with that comes asking good questions. Plus turn off the technology. There should be no iPads, iPods, phones, etc. allowed at the table.​” If families feel they need support addressing relationship and/or mental health issues, northern Colorado has many resources from which they can seek help. In Larimer County, community resources include Mental Health Connections, Touchstone Health Partners and HealthInfoSource.com. Weld County’s North Front Range Behavioral Health center is the recommended source for help.

At the end of the day, Lucas-Thompson says what matters

word, and we need to shake out the rug.”

Melanie Voegeli-Morris, Poudre School District’s student assistance services coordinator, says early identification and intervention can ward off crises. She tells parents, “You’re the expert about your child. If it feels like something’s amiss, something’s probably amiss. Go ahead and talk with your child. That conversation probably won’t happen at a convenient hour of the day, but when an adolescent approaches you, it’s a drop everything, sit down and talk moment.”

By participating in the CSU study, Scott was reminded of the importance of taking advantage of opportunities to

most is communicating warmth and being open to improvement in all relationships. Birnbaum echoes that and adds, “Eat dinner with your family as often as you can. Play together as a family as often as you can and do that from an early age so there’s a family expectation that ‘we hang out together.’” Spending time with your kids communicates that they are valuable and worth it, and receiving positive messages like that builds healthy brains and self-esteem.

For more information about participating in the CSU family relationships study by calling 970-491-5129 or going online to www.frdl.colostate.edu.

PHOTO BY JOHN EISELE

ways—from happily conversing to angrily yelling. At the same time, a high-speed precise camera locks into the youth’s eye movements and records which type of image he looks at the most.

“The belief is that people develop attention patterns based on what they learn is relevant,” explains Lucas-Thompson.

“Some new research suggests that if they are exposed to a lot of fighting and violence, kids tend to pay attention to anger and fear rather than more positive emotions.”

Nathan Scott, a father and the communications director for Loveland’s Inner Balance Health Center, participated in the study with his family to better understand how they communicate with one another. He also teaches an Interpersonal Communication class at Front Range Community College and thought the experience would be valuable to share with his students.

Scott says, “I’m definitely more conscious of my language. I thought I had gotten better with word usage, but I still have a lot of work to do in terms of not using negative and inappropriate language. I also need to be better at not interrupting and at asking better questions. I’m definitely a work in progress.”

When families fall into unhealthy patterns and high levels of conflict exists between parental partners, children can get set on a trajectory for struggling with life-long mental health issues. They seem especially vulnerable to land on this path during the teen years when their brains and bodies are changing rapidly.

Lucas-Thompson stresses that the way parents interact with one another has dramatic effects on kids and that they should work to resolve their issues before their children hit adolescence.

Bernie Birnbaum, associate director of the Fort Collins Family Medicine Program, says, “In my day-to-day practice, I see families and children in crisis. Once you hit the point of crisis, it’s not that it’s too late to make changes, but it’s awfully scary and that’s where I end up interacting with folks.”

Definitive results aren’t available

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thompson school district news Exciting things happening in Thompson School District as possible to students, significant adjustments have been made to the high school schedule beginning this upcoming academic year. This new high school schedule is a “modified block schedule.” First and foremost, it will allow for far more flexibility for students, allowing them greater access to the classes that they need and want to take. It also allows the district to fully align itself with new upcoming state graduation guidelines. Consisting of a mixture of eight-period days and blocks, the hybrid schedule will allow for a tremendous amount of new opportunity for students as we continue to offer them the best possible educational experience. For more information on the schedule and the new structure, please contact your school.

The 2014-2015 school year has almost arrived! We hope you have had a wonderful summer break. Here are a couple of exciting news items to take note of as we kick off the new year: TSD LAUNCHES NEW 2014-2015 DISTRICT INFORMATION GUIDE Thompson School District is pleased to announce the arrival of the 2014-2015 District Information Guide, which is available on the district website at www. thompsonschools.org.

The unit contains registration details, school start and release times and other pertinent “back to school” material. It also includes information on a variety of district programs and services and can help serve as a road map to understanding all that Thompson School District has to offer.

A direct link to the information hub can be found at www.thompson schools.org/districtinformation.

EARLY RELEASE WEDNESDAY HAS BEEN ELMINATED One significant change for the up24

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coming school year involves the newly revised academic calendars, which eliminates “early release Wednesdays” throughout the district. A total of six professional days have been formally added to the schedule. On these days, students will not be in school. These dates in the 2014-2015 school year are currently scheduled for September 19, October 16, January 5, January 20, April 20 and May 22. The elimination of the early release schedule will ensure that there will be an increase in the number of student contact hours with staff. To view the calendars, please click the “School Year Calendars” tab on the home page of the district website (www.thomp sonschools.org).

NEW HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULES HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED In an ongoing effort to present as many educational options

DISTRICT EXPANDS COMMUNICATION OPTIONS FOR FAMILIES Parents will now have the ability to receive text messages from their school and the district with news and important announcements. The system will work similarly to the current e-mail and telephone notification system; the contact information that the communication system uses to notify you is the same information that you have stored on your Infinite Campus account.

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• Kids’ Club Daycare • Swim Team • Swim Lessons • Spring Creek Trail access • Kiddie pool with family changing area nearby • Outdoor pool with a slide!

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To sign-up for the text messaging service, you will need to opt in using the registration forms from your school. You may also contact your school’s office for more details. Text messaging is yet another quick and convenient method to remain in touch with what is going on at your school. We are pleased to be bringing this service to you and look forward to utilizing its benefits.

NEW AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION PATHWAYS PROGRAM EXPANDS OPTIONS FOR STUDENTS Thompson School District is proud to announce the creation of the Agricultural Education Pathways Program, which will prepare TSD students for workforce readiness and continuing education beyond high school. Students will be able to take specialized courses in a variety of agricultural subjects including food products and process, animal systems, plant systems, environmental and natural resource systems, agribusiness systems and agricultural power structure and tech systems. More information is available at the following link: www.thompsonschools.org/ page/6863. Students who are interested in joining the program should contact their school counselor.

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MEET THOMPSON SCHOOL DISTRICT’S NEW PRINCIPALS The following schools will greet new principals in the 2014-2015 school year.

This list is current as of July 9, 2014.

Thompson Integrated Early Childhood: Lamberto Caro has been named as the Early Childhood administrator. He is filling the position vacated by Theresa Clements, who departed the district.

Cottonwood Plains Elementary School: Eric Harting has been named as principal at Cottonwood Plains Elementary School. Harting is filling the position vacated by Dave Patterson, who departed the district.

Coyote Ridge Elementary School: Deon Davis has been named as principal at Coyote Ridge Elementary School. Davis is filling the position held by Diane Spearnak, who has since retired.

Garfield Elementary School: Karen Briski has been chosen as Garfield Elementary School’s interim principal for the 2014-2015 academic year.

Briski is filling in for Principal Cheryl Cook, who is taking a one-year leave of absence from her position.

Monroe Elementary School: Kathy Sather has been named interim principal at Monroe Elementary School.

Namaqua Elementary School: Dan Cox has been named interim principal at Namaqua Elementary School. Cox is filling the position vacated by Donald Beuke, who departed the district.

Turner Middle School: Derrick Martin has been named as principal at Turner Middle School. Martin is filling the position vacated by Bill Siebers, who is serving as the district’s interim director of Human Resources.

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poudre school district news Back to school information for Poudre School District REGISTRATION AND SCHOOL CHOICE DEADLINES Registration days for new students in PSD are scheduled for:

• August: New middle and high school students–dates vary. Contact your school for details.

• August 5-6: New elementary students

Visit school websites for more detailed information about days and times for registration.

School of Choice deadlines for elementary and secondary schools are in January and February. Visit the PSD website for more information on dates and how to apply.

SCHOOL START DATES, EARLY RELEASE HEAT DAYS, OPEN HOUSES AND BUS SCHEDULES The first day of school in PSD is August 19, 2014. However, some schools offer transition days for incoming students (typically at the middle and high school levels) on Monday, August 18, 2014. Visit your school’s website or call your child’s school in August for details. School start and end times, open house dates and bus schedules are posted to the PSD website before the start of school at www.psdschools.org.

Kindergarten through eighthgrade students will be released from school two hours early during the first two weeks of school this August.

This early release schedule is to help mitigate the hot temperatures that occur in school buildings that don’t have air conditioning during the day.

Visit the PSD website for more information on the heat day schedule as well as resources for childcare and other activities.

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PRICES FOR 2014-15 Full priced/reduced price meal fees for elementary and secondary schools in 2014-15 will be as follows: 28

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Breakfast

• Paid Student: $1.25 • Reduced: $0 • Free: $0

Lunch

• Elementary Paid: $2.35 • Secondary Paid: $2.60 • Reduced: $.40 • Free: $0

SCHOOL SUPPLY LISTS AVAILABLE AT SCHOOLS Elementary school supply lists are available at each school, listed in school newsletters, and may be available from local merchants.

Secondary students should bring a notebook, paper, pencil or pen the first day of school. Classroom teachers will announce specific supplies required.

NEEDED UPDATES AT SCHOOL The start of school is a great time to update the information on file about your child. Please

ensure the following information is current with your child’s school: Health Information: Please inform your school’s health care staff if your child has special health concerns, medications or dietary needs. A complete physical exam by a family physician is required for students entering the preschool program and recommended for students entering kindergarten and 4th grade.

Phone Numbers and Parent Contact Information: Parents are encouraged to keep

phone numbers, addresses and emergency contact information updated throughout the school year. Parents will have the opportunity to provide emails and phone numbers for emergency notifications and communication from the school and district at school registration.

Email sign up information is also available at www.psdschools.org > Email Alert Sign Up (found on the slideshow at the top of the page).

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greeley-evans district 6 news District 6 to install video-entry systems at five schools

Greeley-Evans School District 6 will install audio-video entry systems this summer at its four traditional middle schools and at Jefferson High School.

Plans are to have the systems operational by the start of school in August.

The monitoring systems will be installed at Heath, Franklin, John Evans and Brentwood middle schools, as well as at Jefferson High School. Jefferson was selected because it is a smaller site with fewer access points, and because of the on-site daycare housed in the building.

Visitors to these schools will have to buzz into the main office, where a worker will ask the visitor to identify themselves and state their business at the school.

Visitors will then have to check in at the office for a visitor’s badge.

All other doors to these schools will be locked. The only entry will be through the main door of each building.

“This will allow us to fully lockdown these schools during the day,” says John Gates, director of safety and security for District 6. “It’s just one more measure we can take to help keep our schools and our students safe.”

The systems, to be installed by BPA Security Systems, are identical to monitoring devices installed at all elementary and K-8 schools last year. These video entry systems have been successful in monitoring visitors to schools, and have been well 30

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received by parents and the community.

“We continue to look at ways we can improve the safety and security at all our schools,” says Superintendent Dr. Ranelle Lang. “We think it is essential to do what we can to monitor visitors at our schools—to keep our students safe and give our parents some peace of mind.”

DISTRICT 6 TO PROVIDE GED PREPARATION COURSES Greeley-Evans School District 6 will begin offering district-wide General Education Development (GED) preparation classes and testing beginning in August.

The preparation classes will be available to District 6 students through the age of 21. The preparation classes will be offered through the Greeley-Evans Alternative Program, 1113 10th Avenue, free of charge. District 6 will also pay the GED testing fees for any student who completes the preparation classes.

“This just offers one more option for students who are challenged in completing high school in a traditional manner,” says Superintendent Dr. Ranelle Lang. “We are happy to offer this alternative.”

For more information on the GED program, or to enroll, contact GAP Principal Dave Shaffer at (970) 348-4900.

GAP GRADUATES 65 STUDENTS The Greeley-Evans Alternative Program

awarded high school diplomas to 65 students during its summer graduation ceremony Friday, June 27, held at Northridge High School.

The Greeley-Evans Alternative Program focuses on helping older students graduate from high school or receive an adult diploma. Students are able to attend classes during the day or at night, and can work at their own pace. The school will also oversee a new General Education Development (GED) program beginning in the 2014-15 school year.

In addition to the graduates who crossed the stage, GAP helped an additional 56 students recover enough credits to graduate on time from their home school in May. Another 27 GAP students graduated in January.

“Since our graduates all count toward their home school graduation numbers, we simply say that we helped make is possible for 148 students to graduate in District 6 this year,” says Principal Dave Shaffer. “We are incredibly proud of the perseverance and determination of our students. They are amazing.”

For more information about GAP, call (970) 348-4900 or visit www.greeley schools.org/Domain/32.

NEW SCHOOL-YEAR KICK-OFF EVENT Greeley-Evans School District 6 will be hosting the inaugural School Year Kick Off from 10:30am to 1:30pm on Saturday, Aug. 9 at Greeley Central High School, 1515 14th Avenue in Greeley.

The event is a celebration of the start of the new school year for students, staff and the community. More than 600 free backpacks with school supplies will be distributed to District 6 students. The School Year Kickoff is open to the public and will also feature a free lunch, games, sports physicals for $10, student entertainment and community information booths.

The event is being funded totally through private donations and sponsorships.

For more information, visit www. greeleyschools.org/kickoff.

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lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT— Elementary student lunches are $2.35, secondary student lunches are $2.60 and reduced lunches

are $0.40. Entrees offered daily: Elementary—a variety of fruits and vegetables, milk and juices; Secondary--hot and cold sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, deli salad and pizza.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 19 Cheese raviolis; chicken patty sandwich 20 Orange chicken & rice; hamburger/cheeseburger 21 Bean & cheese burrito; chicken nuggets 22 Pepperoni/veggie pizza; ham & cheese sub 25 Mac n’cheese; hamburger/cheeseburger 26 Pasta w/veggies & chicken; ranch chicken bites & biscuit

27 Beef fried rice and egg roll; chicken patty sandwich 28 Crunchy beef tacos; taco salad 29 BBQ chicken/cheese pizza; turkey & cheese wrap MIDDLE SCHOOLS 18 Philly cheesesteak; Teriyaki grilled chicken sandwich 19 Lasagna; chicken broccoli Alfredo

20 Orange chicken & rice; Beef Szechwan 21 Chicken fajita bowl; cheese quesadilla 22 Baked chicken; turkey pot pie 25 Mac & cheese; BBQ chicken sandwich 26 Pasta w/veggies & chicken; cheese raviolis 27 Asian Teriyaki bowl; chicken nuggets 28 Beef tacos; chicken enchilada bake 29 Turkey gravy & roll; trout melt sandwich

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT — Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are

$0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 20 Hamburger; chef salad 21 Waffles; chicken breast strips

28 Chicken fajita taco; taco salad 29 Veggie lasagna rolls; garden entre salad

22 Pizza stick; chicken tender salad 26 Chicken breast nuggets; Caesar salad 27 BBQ chicken breast; chef salad

GREELEY DISTRICT 6 —To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.50, and middle school lunches are $2.75, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 14 Herb chicken w/roll/ Italian hoagie 15 BBQ chicken/cheese pizza; tuna sandwich 18 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 19 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 20 Lasagna; PBJ 21 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 22 Pepperoni/cheese pizza; PBJ 25 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich

26 Bean & cheese burrito; turkey & cheese wrap 27 Baked ziti w/breadstick; PBJ 28 Roast turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 29 Cheese/taco pizza; tuna salad sandwich SECONDARY SCHOOLS 14 Herb chicken w/roll/ Italian hoagie 15 BBQ chicken/cheese pizza; tuna sandwich 18 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 19 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club wrap 20 Lasagna; PBJ

21 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 22 Pepperoni/cheese pizza; PBJ 25 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 26 Bean & cheese burrito; turkey & cheese wrap 27 Baked ziti w/breadstick; PBJ 28 Roast turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 29 Cheese/taco pizza; tuna salad sandwich

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT — Price for elementary lunch is $2.35, for middle school students, $2.55. Reduced lunches are

$0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt.

ELEMENTARY 14 Popcorn chicken 15 Cheese/pepperoni pizza 18 Mac & cheese 19 Chicken drumstick 20 Pancakes/sausage

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21 Taco 22 Big Daddy pizza 25 Hamburger 26 Teriyaki chicken 27 Cheesy nachos 28 Ravioli

SECONDARY 14 Popcorn chicken 15 Turkey club wrap 18 Mac & cheese 19 Sloppy Joe 20 Pancakes/sausage

21 Taco 22 Hot & spicy chicken sandwich 25 Cheeseburger 26 Teriyaki chicken 27 Cheesy nachos

28 Ravioli 29 Pepperoni calzone

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AUGUST 2014 ONGOING AUGUST 8-17 Over the River and Through the Woods This comedy is about a young man and his relationship with his four beloved grandparents. Nick is offered a job promotion that requires a move across the country, so his grandparents connive a matchmaking scheme to keep him nearby. This beautifully written story reminds us that home is where your story begins. Ticket prices and show times vary. Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 970-221-6730 or www.fcgov.com/lctix.

AUGUST 9-10 50th Annual Sculpture in the Park Show and Sale One of the largest sculpture shows in the United States with a diversity of artists displaying thousands of works of art. There is something for everyone including music and a food court.

General admission $7/person. Ages 14 and under free. Benson Sculpture Garden, 1125 w. 29th St., LV. 970-663-2940 or www.sculptureinthepark.org.

THROUGH AUGUST 24 Peter Pan J.M. Barrie’s beloved tale of lost boys, pirate rogues and a mischievous fairy. Candlelight Diner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Drive., Johnstown. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

THROUGH AUGUST Fit Families on the Move This summer program sponsored by Healthy Kids Club, UC Health, is designed to keep kids and families active.

Registered families receive an all-access pass and activity calendar for over 100 free and low cost activities in FC, GR, LV, WS. 970-495-7400 or www.pvhs.org.

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Spamalot This musical adaptation, lovingly ripped off the classic film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, lampoons celebrated historical figures and world famous events in a clever way that will have you rolling in the aisles. Filled with show stopping musical numbers, memorable characters and killer rabbits, Spamalot is sure to be the summer’s funniest adventure. Ticket prices and showtimes vary. Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S.Mason St., FC. www. midtownartscenter.com or 970-225-2555.

TUESDAYS, THROUGH OCTOBER Loveland Farmers’ Market Hobby Lobby Parking Lot, N. Garfield & Orchards, LV. 11am-3pm. 970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

TUESDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 5 Noontime Notes Concert Series Pack your lunch, bring the kids, ride your bike, stop over during your lunch break, walk with friends. You’re sure to enjoy local musical performances.

Oak Street Plaza (College Ave. and Oak St.), FC. 11:30am-1pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

WEDNESDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 24 Summer Enchanted Evening Series Part history, part natural history and part show & tell. Topics will range from archeology to hummingbirds. The Baldpate Inn, 4900 S. Hwy.7, EP. 7pm.

970-586-6151 or www.baldpateinn.com.

THURSDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST Bohemian Nights: Thursday Night Live Concert Series Bring your chairs and enjoy some of Fort Collins’ local music. Old Town Square, FC. 7-9pm. www.bohemiannights.org/ thursday-night-live-series.html.

THURSDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 28 Bright Beginnings Group Visit Are you a parent, grandparent, or care giver to a child(ren) age 0-3? Bright Beginnings is designed to provide parents, grandparents or caregivers of infants and toddlers with emotional support, a network of community based resources, and information on child growth, brain development, discipline and guidance. Also, every person that attends will receive a package of diapers and a book for the child. United Way of Weld County, 814 9th St., GR. 12noon1pm. 970-304-6168 or www.unitedwayweld.org/promisesforchildren/brightbeginnings.

Donation-based Yoga Bring your own mat or do yoga on the grass. $5 donation suggested.

Shire CSA Garden, 713 E. Prospect Rd., FC. 6pm. 970-587-3827 or www. visitfortcollins.com.

Garden to Fork Cooking Nights Presented by The Gardens on Spring Creek and University of Colorado Health, Garden to Fork classes highlight harvesting fresh produce and transforming the ingredients into a healthy, delicious culinary dish.

Participants will receive ample tastings and recipes will be included each evening.

Featured culinary topics include: Grilled Pizza; Pesto, Tapenade & Summer Salsa; Fresh and Savory Italian; Eat the Rainbow. Registration required. $25 per class. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 6-8pm. 970-416-2468 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

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THURSDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST Ride, Sally Rides!

Group bicycle rides for women to get together and spend time in the saddle.

FC. 5:30pm. Check website for ride location starts. www.bicycle ambassadorprogram.org/calendar.

THURSDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 25 Estes Valley Farmers Market Bond Park, MacGregor Ave., EP. 8am12:30pm. 303-775-9058 or www. visitestespark.com.

FRIDAYS Friday Morning Sing Alongs Sing, dance and shake up a storm. Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys, 111 North College Ave., FC. 11am-12noon. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Fabulous Fridays Kids can come in and work on their Summer Adventure badges. We will have different fun open-ended activities and will provide the materials. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 1pm.

970-506-8622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Freaky Fridays for Teens Carnivorous plants, wacky inventions, gross science. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2:30pm.

970-506-8622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 19 Friday Fest Enjoy live music under the stars. 9th Street Plaza, GR. 5-10pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com SATURDAYS Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake Rd., FC. 10am- 1pm.

970-218-5521 or www.drakeroadfarm ersmarket.com Greeley Farmers’ Market Union Pacific Depot, 902 7th Ave., GR. 970-350-9783 or www.greeleygov. com/CommunityDevelopment/ FarmersMarket.aspx.

Open Board Game Night Bring your favorite board game or play one of 160 from our Open Game Library.

The Haunted Game Café, 3307 S. College

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Ave., Ste.107, FC. 6-10pm. 970-402-2466 or www.hauntedgamecafe.com.

SUNDAYS Fort Collins Farmers’ Market 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 11am-3pm.

970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com CAMC Farmers’ Market Ace Hardware Parking Lot, 1001 E. Harmony Road, FC. 11am-3pm. camcfarmersmarketseo@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1 Sculpture on Loan Walking Tour Be the first to see the new 2014 sculptures on display at The Gardens and meet the featured artists on a walking tour. No cost to attend. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 6-8pm.

970-416-2468 or www.fcgov.com/ gardens.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 Colorado You Got Talent, Northern Regional Youth and Adult Finals Performers from more than 20 counties will compete for a spot in Colorado’s largest State Final. $12. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. Youth Finals at 9am. Adult Finals at 2pm. 970-9622120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

Arts Festival More than 20 artists will display and sell their creations, including painting, jewelry, fiber art, glass art, pottery, more. Other activities include a Pinot’s Palette painting class, Food as Art demo, interactive kids’ art activities, along with live music sponsored by Beet Street’s Streetmosphere. The Goodness Truck and A-Maiz’n Kettle Corn will offer delicious eats. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10am-3pm. 970416-2468 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Skygazing at Fossil Creek Dress warmly and bring a blanket or chair to sit on to enjoy viewing the night skies with telescopes provided by the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, on Carpenter Road, 1 mile west of I-25, FC. 8:30pm. 970-416-2815 or www.fcgov.com/naturalareas.

MONDAY, AUGUST 4 iLearn Technology: Microsoft Word 101 Microsoft Word 2010 is the most popular wordprocessing software on the market today. Learn: how to create, modify, save and print documents; about file and folder organization, the ribbon menu system, to add and adjust text fonts, line and paragraph spacing and bullets/numbered lists; and how to use the Quick Access Toolbar. Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 9:30-11:30am. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org. iLearn Technology: Microsoft Excel This class will introduce the basic functions and features of Microsoft Excel. Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 12:30-2pm. 970-9622599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Ice Cream Social Fundraiser Support the Friends of Lory, raise funds for the environmental education program and enjoy ice cream. Suggested donation is $5 per person/per serving or $20 for a family. Lory State Park, Soldier Canyon Group Picnic Area, 708 Lodgepole Dr., Bellvue. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-493-1623 or www.loryfriends.org/events.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 5 National Night Out Join your neighbors to plan an evening to promote neighborhood spirit and law enforcement-community partnerships to encourage a safer county. Learn more and register you event with local law enforcement agencies. www.natw.org.

Extraordianry Travels on an Ordinary Budget Meet and learn from Colorado’s own author Sandra McMillian. No matter your destination, this class will help you become your own travel agent, planning and experiencing trips that your family and friends will want to hear about for years to come. Registration required.

Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

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Great Decisions—China’s foreign policy Join this discussion about China’s foreign policy. There will be a short introduction film about the topic, plus a topic handbook provided by the Friends of the Library free of charge will be available. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6 Beat the Heat: Icy Tie Die Beat the heat and come to the library for cool learning activities. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 10am. 888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Blog Your Best Wordpress, Tumblr, Blogger—which blog is right for you? This class will showcase several different blog options, answer your blogging questions and help you find the right home for your blog.

Registration required. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6:30pm, 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 8 iLearn Technology: Computer Basics 101 (Windows7) for True Beginners Are you ready to set aside your fear of computers? This is the class for you! Free.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 9:30-11:30am. 970-962-2599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Open Sewing Session Use the library’s sewing machines to work on your projects at this free Open Sewing Session. Basic instructions and assistance will be available. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 10am-1pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

The Purpose of God’s Conscious Universe and Yourself With Dr. James & Julie Burnett. A sixweek course that is not a course in religion, but one that can give you knowledge on how to live more successfully in our Conscious Universe. Explore: Why God Created This Conscious Universe? Why God Created You as an Individual? What God Wants for You? Free. No registration.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 1-3pm. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

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Opening Reception for History as Art in Three Parts: Part One - The Colorado Flood of 2013 Exhibit Remember the Colorado flood of 2013 through aerial photos of the devastation, paintings and sculptures. This exhibit will recognize the historic importance of the flood event upon our communal consciousness and the reverberations that mark our continually changing relationship with nature and the environment. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 6-8pm. 970962-2410 or www.cityofloveland.org.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 Chix Need A Fashion Fix! Chix need to see what’s new in fashion, make-up, hairstyles and in their right color. Bring fashion nightmares from your own closet and we’ll help you look HOT! Think of this as a personal consultation session with just you or you and your friends. Come and try it out.

Accessories with a Flair!...and Hair, 801 8th Ave., Ste. 4, GR. 9-11am. 970-3516448 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Rustic Women of Soapstone Prairie Learn about three historical women who homesteaded at Soapstone Prairie and get a glimpse of pioneer life on the prairie. 1/2 mile on paved trail, easy. Meet at the north parking lot. Free. 11am.

Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, 25 miles north of FC. 970-416-2815 or www. fcgov.com/naturalareas.

MONDAY, AUGUST 11 iLearn Technology: Microsoft Word 201 For people who are familiar with Microsoft Word. Learn: visual elements such as Text Box, Word Art and Clip Art; and how to insert a picture into a document, add page borders and create tables. Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 9:30-11:30am. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org. iLearn Technology: Microsoft Excel This class will introduce the basic functions and features of Microsoft Excel.

Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 12:30-2:30pm. 970-9622599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 iLearn Techology: Internet Tips & Tricks Learn how the Internet works, about web browsers and search engines, how to navigate webpages and use common websites. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 1-3pm. 970-962-2599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13 Beat the Heat: Sailboat Races Beat the heat and come to the library for cool learning activities. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 10am. 888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Teen Advisory Board Teens! Help plan library programs you actually want to attend. Share music, books and movies, or whatever else rocks your world. Make a difference in your community through projects you initiate.

Great way to earn community service hours, too. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Windows 8 Basics Learn how to navigate new Windows 8 features, such as the Start screen, Charm menu and desktop. You’ll also learn how to manage apps, and locate files and folders. Participants must bring their own Windows 8 laptop or device. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Estes Park’s Scottish-Irish Festival: The First 35 Years Are you a fan of all things Scottish and Irish? Do you enjoy the Highland Festival? Does local history interest you? If so, don’t miss this wonderful multimedia presentation about the book “Estes Park’s Scottish-Irish Festival— The First 35 Years: Memoirs of Jim Durward”. Book sales and signing to follow presentation. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 14 Echoes to Bugles: Trouble on the Tundra A big fuzzball just wants to munch wildflowers and sprawl out to catch some sun, but relaxing could mean missing an eerie eagle coming in from above or a pesky puma sneaking up from behind. Sometimes for a marmot, life on the tundra is nothing but trouble.

Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 12noon. 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 Family Video Game Night Features 2-player, 4-player and singleplayer games on consoles like the PS3, X-Box Kinect, Nintendo Wii, GameCube, and Nintendo DSs, as well as several board games. All are rated E. Children ages 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Refreshments provided. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 5:30-7:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16 The French Nest Open-Air Market An opportunity for crafters to showcase their talents and available goods, and for shoppers to peruse artisan, antique and vintage wares. Food, face painting and music, too. Civic Center Park, 225 Laporte Ave.,FC. 9am-3pm. www. thefrenchnestmarket.com.

Sensory Storytime for Children With Special Needs This storytime is designed specifically for children who have a hard time in large groups, are on the autism spectrum or are sensitive to sensory overload. Registration is required and limited to 12 families.

Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10:30am. 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

MONDAY, AUGUST 18 iLearn Technology: Computer Basics 101 (Windows7) for True Beginners Are you ready to set aside your fear of computers? This is the class for you! Free.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 9:30-11:30am. 970-962-2599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20 Beat the Heat: Eye Sees Beat the heat and come to the library for cool learning activities. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 10am. 888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Google Earth and Google Searching Learn to maximize your Google searches and get more relevant results, plus how to navigate Google Earth. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 21 Nature Nuggets—Amazing Ants Interactive program with fun facts, activities and crafts for children ages 3-7 and parents. Adult must stay with child during the program. Meet at the picnic shelter, 1/8 mile from the parking lot. Free. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, off CR 27, south of Masonville. 9:30am or 11am. 970-416-2815 or www.fcgov.com/ naturalareas.

Making Loveland a Healthier Community: The Truth Behind Fibromyalgia With Dr. Brian Flemming. Bring a sack lunch. Loveland Public Library, Erion Room, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 12noon-1pm. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 22 Dizzy Block Classic Car Cruise Gather in the parking lot just southeast of the Greeley Courthouse, 919 7th St., #102, GR. 7-9pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 Tour de Farms Join the Sustainable Living Association for a leisurely eight-mile bicycle tour to various farms and gardens. Visit cutting edge urban agriculture projects, hear presentations from farmers, gain useful tools and knowledge for your own garden, find out ways you can support area efforts to strengthen our local food system and eat delicious local food. $25 per person, includes lunch. Tour limited to 50 people. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 24 Music in the Gardens Enjoy a summer concert featuring Ethos West presenting “The Colors of Jazz.” Chairs are provided or bring your own. No furry friends, glass containers or alcohol. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 7-9pm. 970416-2468 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

MONDAY, AUGUST 25 iLearn Techology: PowerPoint101 Learn: to navigate between the different views in PowerPoint; to use layouts, themes, graphics, animations and transitions; to enhance a presentation; to generate notes and handouts to share with the audience; and to add a YouTube video to a brief PowerPoint presentation. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 12noon-1pm. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 26 Curious Stories of Familiar Plants Botanist Kathy Keller will share stories about and uses for plants you walk by every day. For example, soapweed yucca can always provide you with a needle and thread and you will never go hungry if you have dandelions.

Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27 Excel Basics Update your practical skills and learn to create, save and edit Excel spreadsheets.

The class will cover creating a workbook, editing cells, creating charts and using basic formulas. Participants should have good keyboard and mouse skills, and should be comfortable with basic computer operations, such as opening and closing programs.

Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

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time out

Relaxing vacations?

The good and the not-so-good of taking children along LEA HANSON

W

e recently returned from a family vacation—the first we’ve taken with our almost 4-year-old. While we’ve traveled with her many times, our trips have always been to visit (and stay with) family, attend weddings, and that sort of thing.

This trip was an actual vacation—traveling for the sole reason of fun—and we were lucky enough to be able to do it with other family members including grandparents, two cousins, and an aunt and uncle.

But here’s my question after it’s all said and done: When will vacations be relaxing again? Don’t get me wrong, we had lots of fun. A whole lot of fun, in fact. But after being home for a few days in our normal routine, I can’t help but say aloud (as guilty as I feel saying it), I definitely feel more relaxed now that it’s over.

Vacations might be more stressful than staying home. Gone are the days when a vacation consists of days on end of sleeping in, day drinking on the beach, and eating a quiet dinner with friends or a partner. Gone are the days of filling backpacks with a week’s necessities and venturing into the mountains for miles and days of adventure and disconnectedness.

It is just us? Is this one of those things everyone knew and didn’t mention?

Newsflash to those who may not know: “Vacations” with small children consist of staying up later but getting up earlier. For most, they include more sugary treats in a day than the child normally consumes in a week. They include fewer rules and far less routine.

And fewer naps. Or (gasp) no naps.

For those of us who work outside the home, we’re faced with the more difficult daylong job of keeping up with our children. For us—and I suspect many families—this all leads to some elevat42

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ed level of chaos upon return.

Clearly there are wins. The opportunity to give your child(ren) a new and exciting experience and to see new and exciting places cannot be replicated any other way. Reading books, seeing movies, and hearing about others’ experiences will never equate to seeing it ourselves. To see and experience new and different people and cultures matters a lot, especially when you live in a mostly homogeneous society. And one needs not go far to experience a culture change—or better, a culture shock.

For those of us who live far from our family and close friends, traveling allows us to maintain those relationships you might not otherwise be able to do.

Clearly, these are all obvious wins when matched up against staying in the same place and doing the same thing day after day. At least in theory… ask me

on the day after a vacation and I might think differently.

All this is noted with the underlying and dramatic importance to giving our kids things we find valuable and important, even when it cramps our style… or our daytime margaritas.

Chalk vacations up as one of those things that change drastically after having kids. And, frankly, events you might even have to suffer through. Being a parent is a selfless act, that’s not new news to (almost) anyone. But, even the most giving and thoughtful parents find frustration in some of the little things they give up, even if it’s only for a short time. I miss grocery shopping alone. I miss happy hours on a whim.

And today, I miss the way vacations used to look. But clearly when I look at what I’ve gained as opposed to what I’ve lost, I’m happy. Happier even.

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