RM Parent August 2017

AUGUST 2017 • RMPARENT.COM

NATURE TRAILS IN OUR BACKYARD

END-OF-SUMMER

OUTINGS MOVIES

CONCERTS, SWIMMING FOOD TRUCKS

THE REGION’S

BEST FAMILY

CALENDAR!

WHAT’S YOUR

parenting STYLE?

YOuth

& m a r g o r P

Activiety Guid

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ree F s ’ t n, I nal u F It’s ucatio d It’s E

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AUGUST 2017

Departments PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The last hurrah—Make a point to spend quality time together

WOMEN’S HEALTH . . . . . . . . 8 End-of-summer outings—pack a picnic and slip in some family fun

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Unpaved and unplugged—escape to one of northern Colorado’s natural trails

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12 Let the good times roll—skate on at an indoor rink, on a trail or even try a derby team

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14

NoCo offers ways to stay health now and in the future—ozone season, West Nile virus, Larimer County Loveland facility, Imagine Greeley

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . 16

Homemade summer treats that kid’s love—try out a fruit pizza, fresh popsicles, and pub fruit

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 6 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

Special Sections PROGRAM & ACTIVITY GUIDE

Program & Activity YOuth

August 2016 • rmparent.com

Guide Program

DIRECTORY Program & activity guide & back-to-school information Upda tes Find activities that are List of right for your child in this extensive guide of programs 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...

School

CALENDARS PAGE 44

BY CATEGORY • PAGE 16 ALPHABETICAL • PAGE 18

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PAGE 10

ADVERTISERS PAGE 46

Features 18 WHAT’S YOUR

PARENTING STYLE?

Parenting trends change with the winds of each generation. What’s your style?

Whatever it is, know there are many options and hold your own on doing what works best for our family.

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 0 Ready or not?—be polite and prepared for kindergarten

School District News Poudre School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 PSD calendar of events, Early Childhood receives funding to launch full-day program, registration procedures

Greeley District 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 School Kickoff Community Celebration, start times and transportation to change

Thompson School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 New Athletic Director-Assistant Principal at Berthoud High School, bus donated to fire department, new Director of Transportation

Lunchbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

20 B EYOND

SPORTSMANSHIP

Competing in sports is a great way to teach life lessons. Rather than condoning rude, self-centered behavior from athletes as “just part of the game,” coaches and parents should use competition to teach lessons in how to be a good sport, which basically boils down to being kind.

ABOUT THE COVER: Gavin, 7, loves reading, swimming, playing flag-football and minecraft.

Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, courtesy of Sky's Open Design on location at Inspiration Playground in Spring Canyon Park.

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perspective The last hurrah

Make a point to spend quality time together

R

emember all the things you said you were going to do this summer when the chilly winds of winter were bearing down on you? I’m going to hike every week and swim most days and maybe get up for some camping in the mountains. Well, how’d that go for you?

Hit and miss? A complete bust? Totally exceeded expectations?

My problem is that I make these vague plans (oxymoron?) but I forget to get the specifics hammered out, such as when or where or with whom. I want to go backpacking more next summer, I might declare in February, but it kind of ends there. I don’t get out a calendar or a map or a guide book.

So here I am at the end of summer trying to get some last-minute adventures in. We had a fun afternoon last weekend just hanging out at the little beach on the east side of Horsetooth Reservoir. It was an impromptu thing. The kids were home and Kristin wanted to go to the beach. We don’t really do that…but we did. And you know what? It was fun. We packed a little picnic, grabbed the lawn chairs and headed up.

Sure it was crowded but that was part of the fun too. I guess I’m writing about it because it was a spontaneous thing that was way outside of our usual game. We took a little risk, and it turned out to be fun.

The main point is really to get out and have some family time together outside our normal routine. Something about getting out like that adds a dynamic that mixes up our interactions in a spontaneous way.

We do, in fact, have some things on the books…cabins for a few nights in the mountains, family reunion in Nebraska, but I’m hoping to motivate for the little day-in, day-out things: an outdoor movie, a free concert, a food truck night…anything that is a little out of the ordinary and involves leaving the house and not sitting around wondering why I’m bored.

Anyway, if you’re thinking a little bit the same way, you should check out Lynn Nichols story on page 8. She has a laundry list of ideas for you try out before the summer comes screeching to a halt. And they look like a lot of fun and don’t require a lot of cash or a full-day commitment.

And if you’re considering a nice hike on a local trail, Katie Harris has some ideas for you on page 10.

And of course, our family-free-time world doesn’t screech to a halt when school starts. The fall around here can be the best time of the year to get out and play together.

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AUGUST 2017 • Volume 22, Issue 3 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Kim Sharpe calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Sharon Klahn, Debbie Lee, Rob Martin, Susan Pettit, Nikolai Poppen-Chambers COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Ellen Javernick, Lynn 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. ©2017 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

New family member have you bursting at the seams in your current house? Time to find one that fits all of you!

Text me today and let’s start looking.

Buying a home is more than signing papers and getting a key, it’s about creating new dreams, new hopes and fulfilling all the promises that you always hoped you could.

Brandy Formanek • Broker Associate (970) 310-0610 • brandy@frii.com • www.BrandyKnowsHomes.com

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women’s health

End-of-summer outings Pack a picnic and slip in some family fun

LY N N U. N I C H O L S

S

omehow it’s already August and summer is coming to a screeching halt, fast. It’s time to fit in some final summer fun by swapping dinner for a fast meal out or a quick-packed picnic so you can catch the last of the local outdoor music, entertainment, and warm, summer vistas. Best yet, most of these outings are free. Here are some ideas to get you started.

FOOD TRUCK TUESDAYS Hopefully you’ve already discovered that food trucks converge at City Park, Fort Collins every Tuesday evening for Rally in City Park. There’s live music to listen to as you stroll between vendors and decide what’s for dinner. Don’t forget your blanket and find a great spot on the grassy hill overlooking the lake and foothills.

OUTDOOR CONCERTS AROUND TOWN It’s amazing how many opportunities Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley offer for enjoying music outdoors. It’s not too late to take in the last of them. Pack a picnic and head to CSU to hear The Wendy Woo Band play at the Lagoon Summer Concert Series on Wednesday, August 2 from 6 to 8:30pm. Or, catch the band Write Minded at the Ben & Jerry’s Friday Afternoon Club concert on August 18 from 7-9 pm in Old Town Square. Or, if you live closer to Loveland, grab a picnic or fast food and head to a Sounds of Centerra concert at the nearby Chapungu Sculpture Park.

Enjoy music by The Commoners on Friday, August 5, or music from Hey, Lady, a B-52’s tribute band, on Friday, August 12 from 7 to 9pm.

MOVIES, SUMMER-STYLE Here’s a twist for a Tuesday night. Have dinner at home then load the lawn chairs in the car and head on down to 8

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Old Town Square in Fort Collins for Outdoor Movie Night. Just pack the cooler, as the popcorn is provided for free. Catch these family-friendly flicks: August 1 - Ghostbusters (original version), August 8 - Inside Out, and August 15 - The Sandlot. Shows at dusk.

Finally, if you haven’t made it to the drive-in yet this summer, put that on your pre-school-start list. The Holiday Twin Drive in is one of the last remaining drive-in theatres in the United States. Located on the west side of Fort Collins, off Overland Trail.

HOT NIGHT? GET WET Pack some quick sandwiches and head to the pool or lake for a fun time any night of the week. City Park Pool in Fort Collins offers daily twilight swims starting at 4:30pm for $4.50. Windsor Lake Beach is open until dusk for swimming at no cost and is located in Windsor’s Boardwalk Park. There are always the splash parks at Oak Street Plaza in Old Town Fort Collins and at Spring Canyon Community Park in west Fort Collins.

TIRED OF THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE? GET OUT. Pack a picnic and head up Centennial Drive along the east side of Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins and select a picnic table overlooking the reservoir. You’re in for awesome views of the water and foothills, not to mention a stunning sunset. The same is true for other nearby mountain parks including Lory State Park, or Gateway Park about a 45-minute drive up the Poudre Canyon on Highway 14.

In Loveland, visit one of the city’s many parks including Fairgrounds Park, Boyd Lake State Park, Kroh Park or the Loveland Sports Park to help the kids work their energy out at the playground.

Summer isn’t just about the kids relaxing and enjoying their break from school. It’s also a time for parents to shift gears, set the workday aside, and commune with nature or take in some entertainment. Make the most of these final long, warm evenings before school starts and fall sets in. You deserve it!

HOW YOU CAN HELP SOLVE

THE CHILDCARE CRISIS H

ave you struggled to find care for your child while you work or go to school, or do you know someone who is struggling to find care? If so, you are not alone. Larimer County families are finding it increasingly difficult to find child care, especially for infants. It is estimated that about 65% of children under the age of 5 years have all parents in the workforce. Locally, however, there are only enough licensed child care slots for about 25% of the children ages 0-3 years who might need it. If you are a parent who is expecting a child soon and you have not already gotten onto a waiting list for one of these slots, you may be challenged to find care if you plan to return to work.

More growth and development

happens in a human brain during the first 5 years of life than in the entire rest of our life combined. This means experiences during that time influence the entire lifespan. Children develop the healthiest neural connections in their brain when they experience consistent and responsive care giving relationships with people, much like they experience from a parent.

The people who care for young children matter. They are the key for young children to prosper in the future and for parents to prosper now by being able to go to work or school confident their children are being cared for well.

If you are staying at home with your own children, or are caring for other children on occasion or consistently, you could be part of the solution to child care

in Larimer County. Consider opening a home based business caring for children.

The Early Childhood Council of Larimer County is offering financial support to individuals who would like to become licensed family child care homes. ECCLC offers financial support towards the costs and guidance to help you through the process. Just call Rachel at (970) 377-3388 x 200 or e-mail her at rmcroberts@ecclc.org. For more information visit our website at ecclc.org.

Lisa Sadar, Quality Resources Manager, Early Childhood Council of Larimer County

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family activities

Unpaved and unplugged

Escape to one of northern Colorado’s natural trails K ATIE HARRIS

A

FORT COLLINS AREA TRAILS Coyote Ridge Natural Area: This 2.3mile trail is located between Loveland and Fort Collins on Taft Hill Rd./ Wilson St. The trail contains a mixture of grasslands and forest areas and allows visitors the option of connecting to Rimrock Open Space and extending the trail to 7 miles. The trail is open to horseback riders, mountain bikers and hikers. www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/ finder/coyote Foothills Trail: This 9.6-mile trail connects Pineridge, Maxwell and Reservoir Ridge natural areas and offers incredible views of the foothills.

The trail runs parallel to Horsetooth Reservoir and is available to horseback riders, hikers and experienced cyclists.

Parking can be found on the west end of Michaud Lane and at approximately 1425 Overland Trail Rd. www.fcgov. com/naturalareas/finder/reservoirridge Horsetooth Mountain Open Space: More than 2700 acres of open space and dozens of trails make Horsetooth Mountain a popular place for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Arguably the most popular trail in the area, Horsetooth Rock is a 2.1-mile one-way moderately difficult hike open to hikers only. Views from the top of this well known landmark include Horsetooth Reservoir and the Front Range. www. larimer.org/parks/htmp.cfm LOVELAND AREA TRAILS Bobcat Ridge Natural Area: 10

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PHOTO COURTESTY OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS

mid the hustle and bustle of the ever-growing cities and towns of northern Colorado exist natural, unpaved and nearly untouched trail systems where visitors can leave it all behind and escape into the great outdoors. Below, find something for everyone on our list of favorite trails.

Of the five trails located at this Loveland/Masonville natural area, Valley Loop’s 4-mile round trip distance, difficulty level and mixed terrain make it an excellent choice for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. Grassy prairie, shaded forest and the remains of a recent fire, along with frequent wildlife sightings make this trail one not to be missed. The Bobcat Ridge parking lot is located at 10184 West County Road 32C, Loveland. www. fcgov.com/naturalareas/finder/bobcat Carter Lake: The 3.3-mile one way Sundance Trail at Carter Lake follows the west side of the lake from the South Shore campground to just west of the marina. The relatively flat trail is open to hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders and parking is available at either end, off CR31 or NCR31, Loveland. www.co.larimer. co.us/parks/carter.cfm Devil’s Backbone Open Space: This 12-mile trail system is easily accessed from Colorado Highway 34 west of Loveland and Hidden Valley Drive. The 2-mile Wild Loop Trail is

suitable for all ability levels and takes visitors up to the keyhole for incredible views of the valley below. The trail separates in places to allow usage by hikers, bikers and riders. www.larimer. org/parks/bbone.cfm Pinewood Reservoir: The 2-mile Shoshone Trail winds up into the forest before dropping down next to the reservoir for the last .5 mile. The trail is often less crowded than other, better-known trails and is more often frequented by fishermen. Access the trail via the Ramsay Shockey trailhead, approximately 4.5 miles west of Carter Lake on CR18E. www.co.larimer.co.us/ parks/pinewood.cfm WINDSOR AREA TRAIL Belmont Ridge Open Space: This 2.5mile trail is accessible through Coyote Gulch Park near the intersection of N. Fairgrounds Ave. and Crossroads Blvd.

The natural surface trail is suitable for hikers and mountain bikers, and provides visitors with an opportunity to get outdoors and stretch their legs without driving far from town. www.windsorgov. com/836/Trails-Open-Spaces

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learn and live

Let the good times roll

Skate on at an indoor rink, on a trail or even try a derby team PHOTO COURTESTY FOCO SPARTANS

KIM SHARPE

Get on a roll in NoCo

FoCo Spartans Junior Roller Derby Fort Collins, 970-231-8007 http://spartanbabes.weebly.com/ Full-contact sport for ages 7-17.

Junior Roller Derby Association www.juniorrollerderby.org RollerLand Skate Center 324 S. Link Ln., FC, 970-482-0497 www.rollerlandskatecenter.com School fundraisers, birthday parties, school-break skates, private parties Skate Ratz 343 E. 4 th St., LV, 970-663-0980 www.sk8ratz.com Large selection of skateboarding, skate and roller derby gear for youth to adult.

W

hen the summer sizzles, an activity the whole family can enjoy in an air-conditioned space is roller skating. (The opposite is true, too. Roller rinks are warm places for active fun when the weather’s cold.)

However, there are many ways to enjoy skating, from indoors at rinks to trail skating outdoors to playing roller hockey or participating on a roller derby team.

Rebecca (Ruby Snap) Richter, who coaches for the FoCo Spartans junior roller derby for ages 12 and under, says “Roller derby is a growing sport and a great way for kids to compete on a team. It’s come a long way from what parents might think of as classic roller derby from the ‘70s.” Today’s roller derby focuses on strong athleticism and sportsmanship, rather than the rough and rowdy sport of decades gone by.

“It also can inspire a lifelong active lifestyle, teaching kids leadership skills they can use on and off the track, as well as confidence and team work,” she adds.

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“I got a brand new pair of roller skates, You got a brand new key.

I think that we should get together and try them out, you see.”

Brand New Key lyrics, by Melanie Beyond that, skating helps improve balance and naturally teaches that when you fall down, you have to get up again to keep on rolling. A life lesson for sure.

So how soon can children get rolling? Richter says, “The Spartans accept male and female skaters as young as 5 years old, but children as young as 2 years old can learn to skate.” Once they’re steady on their feet as walkers,

kids often are good to roll.

Skating can be relatively inexpensive, too. The cost of admission to RollerLand in Fort Collins ranges from $2.50 to $6.50, depending on the day and length of stay. Skate rental is $2.50. The rink also offers specials for families.

So, what are you waiting for? Lace up some skates and let the good times roll.

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community news

NoCo offers ways to stay healthy

Ozone season, West Nile virus, Loveland facility, Imagine Greeley KIM SHARPE

S

ummer in the Rockies and along the mountains’ Front Range brings many opportunities for fun in the sun. It also presents circumstances that require taking precautions to stay safe. But when citizens need more information about ways to stay healthy, they can reach out to area health departments, soon to include a new facility in Loveland.

WE’RE IN THE ZONE It’s ozone season along Colorado’s Front Range. Ozone Action Alerts are issued on days when meteorologists from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) expect weather conditions that lead to increased ground-level ozone concentrations in the metro-Denver and Front Range region. The cities of Loveland, Fort Collins and Greeley are included in the alert area.

Ozone that occurs at ground level is a dangerous air pollutant. Elevated levels can cause symptoms in people that include stinging eyes and throat, chest pains, coughing and respiratory distress. Those at highest risk of symptoms due to elevated ozone levels include the elderly, young active children, and anyone with a pre-existing respiratory condition, such as emphysema or asthma. Even healthy adults who spend a lot of time working or exercising outdoors may be affected by elevated ozone levels.

During ozone alert days, people can lower their risk of developing symptoms by limiting prolonged outdoor exercise.

Particularly sensitive individuals may even be advised to stay indoors.

Because ozone formation occurs when air emissions bake in the hot summer sun, citizens can help reduce the ozone level by taking voluntary steps to reduce these pollutants. Some suggestions for individual action include:

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• Keep your car tuned and tires well inflated to increase mileage and reduce fuel use • Stop at the click when refueling your car or truck to limit vapors at the gas pump • Refuel after dusk to avoid releasing fumes into the air during the period of intense sunlight • Combine trips, take the bus, carpool, ride a bike, walk or postpone a trip during an alert if possible • If you use a gas-powered mower, delay lawn mowing until evening to avoid the period of intense ozone formation.

More information about ozone along the Front Range is available at www.ozoneaware.org. A link on that website allows individuals to sign up to receive a daily email ozone level advisory. Ozone air quality alerts also are published in most daily newspapers, on Fort Collins Comcast Channels 14 and 881, and on most metro-area news channels.

WEST NILE VIRUS SEASON IS HERE Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus were trapped in Berthoud recently and the presence of infected mosquitoes

will likely increase in Larimer and Weld Counties in the coming weeks, as the hot weather speeds up both mosquito and virus reproduction. West Nile virus is most frequently transmitted locally in July and August.

West Nile disease is a viral infection that is spread to people by bites from infected Culex mosquitoes. Symptoms can range from none at all to severe illness. About 75 percent of people who are infected are asymptomatic; about 25 percent will develop West Nile fever.

Less than 1 percent develop the more severe neuroinvasive form, which can lead to hospitalization, critical illness, chronic disability or even death.

“We encourage the public to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites,” says Mark E. Wallace, MD, MPH, Weld County Health Department executive director.

West Nile Virus can be prevented.

In addition to community efforts, such as reducing water where mosquitoes can breed and spraying for adult mosquitoes, individuals can remember to use the

4 D’s to help prevent West Nile virus disease: DEET or other effective mosquito repellent—Use an EPA-registered mosquito repellent proven to be effective against West Nile Virus-carrying mosquitoes. DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (also called p-menthane-3,8-diol or PMD) and IR3535 are good choices.

Dusk to Dawn—Avoid exposure during peak Culex mosquito feeding times, from dusk through dawn.

Dress—Wear long sleeves and pants to keep mosquitoes from biting.

Drain—Remove standing water in your yard or garden to minimize mosquito breeding areas.

For more tips on what you can do to prevent West Nile virus, visit www.larimer .org/westnile or www.weldgov.com.

IMAGINE GREELEY INVITES COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Imagine Greeley will hold community meetings on August 2 and August 3 to acquire public input on different policy directions the City and community might take through the updated comprehensive plan; evaluate different

alternatives for growth and development in particular areas of Greeley and its Long Range Expected Growth Area; and explore trade-offs associated with these different choices. Feedback gathered during the events will help to determine which policy positions are supported through the updated comprehensive plan, as well as the plan’s land use guidance map.

Since 1997, Greeley’s population has increased from 70,000 to more than 100,000. By 2040, it is anticipated to reach 150,000. Imagine Greeley was established to help answer the following questions: What do we want the Greeley of the future to look and feel like?

What steps do we need to take to maintain Greeley’s quality of life for future residents—many of whom will be our children and grandchildren?

To learn more about Imagine Greeley and how you can get involved, visit http://imaginegreeley.com.

LARIMER COUNTY BREAKS GROUND ON NEW LOVELAND CAMPUS Larimer County recently broke ground at a new 46,000-square-foot campus at First Street and Denver Avenue in

Loveland. The two-story facility will serve the growing needs of southern Larimer County citizens and replace a facility that had been outgrown and was no longer functional. The Clerk & Recorder, Health and Environment, Human Services, Workforce Center and Sheriff ’s Office will occupy the new facility.

“We had some deficiencies in facilities in southern Larimer County and this new building will address those needs,” says Larimer County Commissioner Tom Donnelly. “What this facility represents is an opportunity for folks in south Larimer County to receive the same services as the folks in northern Larimer County.”

A 229-space parking lot will help speed up the time getting in and out of the facility enabling citizens to conduct business in a timely manner. “Having this new building in southern Larimer County will be very crucial to meeting the needs of our citizens. I want to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of the citizens of Larimer County,” adds Loveland Mayor Cecil Gutierrez.

Construction is planned for completion in late summer or early fall of 2018.

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healthy living

Summer treats that kid’s love Try out a fruit pizza, fresh popsicles, and pub fruit LEA HANSON

S

ummertime ought to be party time. Parents know the end of the school year brings more than warmer weather; both good and bad changes show up when that last school bell rings. Day camps, pool time, BBQs, camping, vacations and staycations, and lots of time outside are positive and often welcomed changes to our schedules. On the other hand, summer can also bring on changes that give parents headaches: late nights, ever-altering daily/weekly schedules, and way too many unhealthy treats.

Engage your kids and make these fun summer treats together. Peter Wawro, Health Advocate, for Cooking Matters at La Familia in Fort Collins, says when kids are involved in the kitchen, they are much more inclined to eat the food. He says, “Once the connection has been established, the kitchen becomes a place for conversation and sharing in a very informal setting. This improves communication and can help improve family dynamics as well.”

Wawro’s favorite easy summer treat is Banana Pudding in a Bag. “It’s a simple, fun recipe that lets the kids play with their food without making a mess.” See sidebar for recipe. Here are more crowd-pleasers: FREEZER TREATS Fruit popsicles can be made from any fruit your child loves. Using a blender, use your child’s favorite fruit(s) and blend with fruit juice, yogurt, and/ or milk, add a stick, and freeze. Note: fruits with skins (blueberries, cherries, etc.) may be a little trickier and disrupt the smooth texture.

Frozen whole fruit tastes, in some cases, surprisingly different (and better) when it’s frozen on a stick. Bananas, grapes, watermelon, and strawberries 16

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are easy wins and are even more delicious if they’re dipped in chocolate before they’re frozen.

SKEWER TREATS Most anything is more fun when on a skewer. Combining fruits or vegetables with cheeses or lining up meats and cheeses is easy as well as healthy. Fruit skewers are delicious and even more so when fruit is assembled in rainbow order or another creative manner.

“PUB FRUIT” Many traditional pub foods can be replicated with fruits and vegetables and be fun to make together: • For fruit pizza, try slicing a fresh watermelon in a full circle, top with additional chopped fruits, and slicing into quarters.

• For fruit nachos, thinly slice apples and spread them on a plate. Drizzle peanut butter (and maybe some chocolate) on top and they’ll disappear like candy.

• For veggie nachos, spread colorful pieces of bell pepper and top

with salad dressing (or seasoned plain yogurt) with chopped cucumbers, avocado, and cheese.

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What’s your parenting style?

Do what works best for your family Lynn U. Nichols

P

arenting trends shift and change with the winds of each generation. Some are the same as in the past, just rearranged to appear new. Others come in like a storm to mix everything up, like the tiger parent who pushes kids to be high academic achievers at all costs, or the helicopter parent who stays in her child’s business long past high school graduation.

When a strong wind comes along, the next generation tends to react to it, sometimes by going the opposite direction. Take the authoritative style of parenting in the past, where children only spoke when spoken to, received punishments, and were expected to be little adults. It brought on the highly permissive, child-first movement in the 80s and 90s, where kids needs came first and discipline became a dirty word.

Which brings us to today’s parents. Where have the winds settled? It seems extreme is out, reasonability and practicality is in. Helicopter parenting is giving way to third-child parenting, where parents are more relaxed, and kids are

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less hovered over and allowed more freedoms.

French-style parenting, where parents’ needs are more equal, is gaining ground on child-first parenting. Quality time still reigns over quantity of time, and parents are more willing than ever to ask for help. What’s your style? Whatever it is, know there are many options and hold your own on doing what works best for our family.

“There are a lot of ways to be a healthy family, so pick a style that fits you and your family. If you have more than one child you may have to parent each child differently. One child might respond well to one approach while another might not,” says Andrea Holt, LMFT, CAC III, Marriage and Family Therapist with UCHealth’s Family Medicine Center in Fort Collins.

HELICOPTER WHIZZES OUT, THIRD-CHILD SETTLES IN

You are likely familiar with the idea of helicopter parenting. It’s about orchestrating the world to

MAKING TIME FOR QUALITY With electronic devices taking over our lives and hyper-connectivity to everything and everyone is at our fingertips, some families are opting for device-free times and concentrating on real connections, instead. Here are some ways to bring more quality time into your home.

• Create a daily ‘devices down’ time and call it ‘family time’ • Take turns picking how to spend the time • Be active together—ride bikes, play board games, wrestle, shoot hoops, play bean bag toss in the back yard, build forts, play hide and seek • Share stories about your days • Engage in a conversation about something that really matters to your child, even if you think it’s silly • Snuggle, give backrubs, and get cozy together • Make eye contact and really listen, without interrupting or giving advice

make sure your child succeeds. Instead of letting your children advocate for themselves, you put down the landing gear and call their teacher yourself.

Or, you put finishing touches on an art project, wake them up in the morning to a ready breakfast, arrange their daily schedule, fill out college application forms, or rework a composition paper to the extreme. The downside is your kids don’t learn to do these things themselves, so when they are out on their own they may lack the confidence to do so, or feel overwhelmed trying.

Today’s parents are starting to get this, having possibly grown up with a helicopter parent themselves, and are relaxing the controls and setting the copter down more often. Third-style parenting is parenting your first as if they were your third, without high expectations of perfectionism, and with independence and the acceptance of natural consequences. ​“I still see a fair bit of helicopter parenting across generations, and I see parents who are not millennials with a more third-child parenting style. I think it depends more on finding something that fits with your temperament and your child’s needs versus endorsing one specific style,” Holt adds.

FRENCH PARENTING LANDS SMOOTHLY, CHILD-FIRST SKIDS

Some American families are trying the French style of parenting, where kids’ needs don’t always come first, and parents put equal effort in maintaining their own relationship as they do in raising their kids. French parents give their kids more independence early on, they are less focused on highlighting their kids’ individuality, and they don’t jump at every desire. They set a few concrete rules and do less catering to—rarely making separate meals or allowing kids to talk back. They are more relaxed about doing everything just right and more apt to go with the flow. They trust their instincts rather than what their neighbors are doing, and know there is a balance to everything—all without the guilt. That’s the ideal, anyway.

“There’s a fair bit of research supporting that when couples make their lives all about their children, their marriages suffer. Data shows that by adopting a childfirst parenting style where parents rearrange everything for their children and don’t prioritize their own needs or their needs as a couple, their chance for divorce increases. I talk to my clients about creating balance and building self-care and

couple care into their lives,” Holt says.

It’s not about ignoring your child to take care of yourself; it’s about knowing it’s okay to not make every single one of your child’s practices or events. It’s about sometimes responding with an “in a while, mom needs some relax time,” when the need is not urgent. It’s carving out time each week to just be a couple.

“It’s good for kids to see parents nurturing their relationship. It makes them feel secure, and they learn how to have a happy marriage. It’s not selfish, it’s like the airlines say, ‘put on your own mask before helping your child.’ The same goes for parenting,” Holt adds.

ASKING FOR HELP AND GETTING CREATIVE TAKE OFF

Parents are realizing they can’t do it all on their own—especially those who work two jobs to support a family. Families are getting creative on how to hodgepodge childcare whether that’s hiring two providers, working opposite shifts, working from home, exchanging childcare with friends, or calling on neighbors or family for help. When a provider is hired to come in the home, more parents are relying on them to help with light housekeeping, cooking meals, and transporting kids to and from activities.

“Parents are getting really creative to make things work, and parenting well is far more about quality than quantity. You can spend all the time in the world with your child, but if it’s not quality time, it matters less than if you actively engage with them,” Holt says.

Remember, what works for other families may not work for yours. Some parents have the luxury of not working and being there at every step of their kids’ days. Trust what you do is good enough. ​“ With social media, we now get a window into other families’ lifestyles and it creates a lot of comparison and judgment. It doesn’t offer the most accurate or well-rounded representation of a family and it can be damaging to make assumptions. There are a lot of ways to be a healthy family. Don’t worry about what other people are doing, do what works for you,” concludes Holt.

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HHH USE PLAYING FIELDS TO TEACH LIFE SKILLS

Beyond

T

hose of us who’ve made a few trips around the sun know that in life, you win some and you lose some. The sooner kids understand this reality and learn how to handle failure, the better off they’ll be. Competing in sports is a great way to teach this important life lesson.

“Winning is exciting. Losing is disappointing. The key to coping with either is to understand that these are temporary states,” says Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD, author and clinical psychologist.

SPORTING GOOD BEHAVIOR Rather than condoning rude, self-centered behavior from athletes as “just part of the game,” like throwing tantrums when an official calls a foul on your team or throwing a cheap shot at an opponent, coaches and parents should use competition to teach lessons in how to be a good sport, which basically boils down to being kind.

“Team sports provide great lessons in sportsmanship,” Kennedy-Moore says.

The Institute for the Study of Youth Sports (YSI) defines

SPORTSMANSHIPH KIM SHARPE

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sportsmanship as “…a striving for success, while maintaining a commitment to being fair, honest, and respectful [and] to following the rules—all of which is synonymous with being ethical or moral.”

YSI also says research concludes that, “Athletes who focus on self-mastery and personal improvement…are more likely to perceive the purpose of sport as teaching values such as working hard, cooperating with others, and becoming good citizens…Individuals who focused on beating others more often viewed intentional, injurious acts as legitimate and were more tempted to violate sportsmanship attitudes and behaviors.”

What does sportsmanship look like in action?

Kennedy-Moore suggests, “A caring coach and post-game rituals like giving the other team high-fives and going out for ice cream together can help your child learn to take competition in stride. Team sports are also an opportunity to focus on improving skills. Even when your child’s team loses, there can be small victories in making a good shot or playing good defense.”

BEYOND SPORTSMANSHIP While playing games and participating in competitions offer kids many lessons in what it means to be a good sport, they

H

also can offer lessons in and help build character in young athletes. And just like all other behaviors children learn, acting with good sportsmanship and with character are best taught when adults—namely parents and coaches, model them.

That’s what CHAMP (Character in Athletics—Make it a Priority), a Fort Collins-based organization, works to help parents and coaches understand. CHAMP’s mission is “… to help the community deliver a character-focused athletic experience and reinforce a positive character foundation in our student-athletes.”

Jason Barrett, CHAMP board president, explains, “For us, character goes beyond what you do on the sports field. It can last well beyond a game, season or career. Sportsmanship is what you do on the field. Character is not only displayed during sporting events, but it’s a lifelong trait. It’s how you act when no one’s looking.”

WHAT CAN PARENTS DO? “Parents can be a huge part in using the outcome of sports to teach character lessons,” says Burkett. In the parent training’s CHAMP offers, parents are told, “Don’t be a win-at-all-costs parent. Games aren’t just about winning and losing.”

BEFORE THE GAME

W Speak greatness into your child.

W Tell your child you are proud of him/her regardless of how well they play.

W Focus on her attitude and effort.

W Remind your child to play hard and enjoy the competition, and that it is “ok” to be nervous; it is normal.

W Make a commitment to yourself to act appropriately no matter what others may do.

DURING THE GAME

W U nderstand your role; you are a fan… not the coach or an official.

W Let the coaches coach. Avoid giving your child or other players advice during the game.

W Pick the “right” seat or surroundings for growth.

W Cheer good plays and good efforts by both teams.

W Mention good calls by officials to others.

AFTERTHE GAME

W Stick around for post-game with the team.

W T hank the officials for doing a difficult job.

W T hank the coaches for their effort.

W Let your child tell you about the game, avoid giving your post game analysis unless asked.

W Tell your child again that you are proud of him, especially if the game did not go well.

W T ake your child out for a treat regardless of their performance. Ice cream is always great!

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ree F s ’ n, It nal u F It’s ucatio d It’s E IT’S THE

Garbage Garage Environmental education center at the Larimer County Landfill in Fort Collins. Drop in or schedule a tour!

(970) 498-5772 larimer.org/solidwaste

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poudre school district news Full-day preschool program receives funding

PSD’s Early Childhood Education department will be able to provide full-day preschool for at-risk children in the fall, thanks to increased federal grant funding.

Funding will increase from $3 million to $4 million dollars for the district’s Head Start program, which supports child development through early learning programs, home visits, health services and family empowerment.

“This is a beautiful gift to the community,” Carolyn Martin, Director of Early Childhood Education says. “The brain and body are like a single little bundle between zero and 60 months — they never do the same things again that they do between that window of months.”

Preschool programs have been shown to accelerate child development, 28

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boost academic outcomes, increase health and mental health, and generate billions of dollars in economic benefits, according to the National Education Association.

“We’re seeing the kids at a time when brain science tells us we can really make an impact,” Martin says. “Anything that we do for a child at that age has double, triple, quadruple the efficacy.”

Spots in the Head Start program are reserved for the most vulnerable children, because the services are the most comprehensive. Along with providing preschool classes, the Early Childhood Education department acts as a comprehensive services organization, connecting families with medical and mental health providers, social ser-

vices, childcare centers and other local community resources. Family Mentors visit with families weekly to provide education and help parents navigate through the early years.

“It’s not just the educational piece — we provide a direct connection to services and organizations,” Corinne Van Dyke, Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education says. “We serve the whole family, and that can only benefit the child and the community in the long run.”

In order to provide full-day classes next fall, ECE had to add new classrooms, hire new staff and strategically plan full-day classroom locations in each quadrant of the district. They worked with Transportation to coordinate

PSD Calendar of Events Aug. 8 – Board of Education meeting, 6:30pm, JSSC, 2407 LaPorte Ave. Aug. 18 – High School Transition Day for 9th graders Aug. 21 – First Day of High School Aug. 22 – Middle School Transition Day for 6th graders Aug. 22 – Board of Education meeting, 6:30pm, JSSC, 2407 LaPorte Ave. Aug. 23 – First Day of Elementary and Middle School Aug. 25 – PSD Audit Committee Meeting, 7 – 9am, Information Technology Center, JSSC, 2407 LaPorte Ave.

additional busing for students, with Child Nutrition to develop meal plans, and ordered cots for afternoon naps. The department’s governing board of parent representatives monitored the work done by multi-stakeholder workgroups, and provided input and direction.

“We’ve had so much support in making this a reality,” Van Dyke says.

With funding, classrooms, staff and curriculum secured, the Early Childhood Education department is ready to roll out full-day preschool this fall.

“We are very serious about preparing kids for kindergarten,” Martin says.

“We’re ready to play our part in ensuring equity and access for every child.”

PSD REGISTRATION PROCEDURES New Students-All new K-12 students register at their school site. Go to the PSD website to determine your neighborhood school.

For new elementary students (K-5), designated registration dates are Tuesday, Aug. 1, and Wednesday, Aug. 2, at the school. Registration is also available for new elementary students after these dates.

For registering new secondary students (6-12), please contact the school directly to make an appointment with the Registrar.

Please note: Kindergarten and first-grade students must be 5-yearsold and first-graders must be 6-yearsold on or before September 15 to register for school. (Learn more about kindergarten registration) School Choice-Parents may also

fill out a School Choice application for their child to attend a school outside their attendance area. School choice applications are accepted until the first day of school. During the summer months, parents are encouraged to contact each school regarding choice applications.

For more information, visit the School Choice web page.

Registration-Please bring the following to the school:

• Student’s birth certificate, original or certified (required for new kindergarten students and students new to PSD only) • Emergency contact information, including health care provider contact information • Immunization records or a signed State of Colorado Exemption Certificate is required for personal, religious, or medical exemptions to school immunization requirements. Information about recommended and required immunizations from Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is available for your review (multiple languages available).

• Copy of student’s academic history or current report card (bring a nonofficial copy; PSD school personnel will request your student’s school records from the previous school after

your student is enrolled) • Proof of residency (a copy of a lease agreement, mortgage statement, utility bill, etc.. that shows that parent/guardian lives at address within school boundaries) • Print, complete and submit enrollment forms below to schools

Current PSD students-Kindergarten through 11th grade Students who currently attend a PSD school do not need to register for the following year unless they are moving to a new school or level (i.e. elementary to middle school and middle school to high school.)

Fifth grade students will be pre-registered at their neighborhood feeder middle school in February.

Fifth grade students will visit feeder middle schools in April. See 6th Grade Registration Calendar for details.

Eighth grade students will be registered at their neighborhood feeder high school. Contact each high school for registration details.

Fifth grade and Eighth grade students wishing to attend a middle or high school outside their attendance area (or for a program continuation), should fill out a School Choice application.

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greeley-evans district 6 news School Kickoff Community Celebration

Greeley-Evans School District 6 is hosting its fourth annual School Kickoff Community Celebration on Saturday, August 12 from 10am to 1pm at Island Grove Regional Park, 501 North 14th Avenue in Greeley.

Through sponsorships and donations, District 6 has raised enough money to give away 3,150 backpacks filled with school supplies. This year, a free brunch will be served to those who attend, while supplies last. Join us for chicken and waffles, fruit and juice.

And be sure to take time to visit more than 70 community booths that will be providing important information and services for District 6 families.

Backpacks will be given out to District 6 students only. Students must be present at the event to receive a backpack.

Upon entering the park, students and their parents need to visit the backpack wristband booth. Students will be given a wristband that they can use to get the free backpack, which will be distributed in the Island Grove Event Center, anytime during the event. Wristbands will be given out beginning at 9:30am and the backpack giveaway will begin 30

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at 10am. Students must provide their names, the school they attend and their age to receive a backpack. Lost wristbands will not be replaced.

Brunch service will begin at 10:30 and will be served until supplies run out.

The event also includes a petting zoo provided by FFA students from Greeley West High School, free face painting, carnival games, student entertainment and many fun activities for families to enjoy. Emergency vehicles from the Greeley police and fire departments, a Greeley-Evans Transit bus and District 6 school bus will also be available for viewing and tours. The District 6 Nutrition Services Department will have its own el Fuego food truck available providing free food samples.

Banner Health will be on site to perform sports physicals for students at a cost of $10. Families can get information about schools and District 6 programs, register their student and complete a free and reduced lunch application on site.

More than 200 volunteers help make this event possible, performing a variety of tasks from stuffing backpacks

to serving lunch and handing out backpacks.

The title sponsor for the event is Banner Health/North Colorado Medical Center. Principle Sponsors are Extraction Oil and Gas, and Greeley Redeye Rotary. Premier sponsors are Monfort Family Foundation Fund, High Plains Library District, JBSUSA, ABC Bright Beginnings, NCMC Foundation, and Flood and Peterson.

Major backpack sponsors are The Success Foundation serving Greeley Evans Schools and the University of Northern Colorado.

Other backpack sponsors are FMS Bank, Aims Community College, The Community Foundation Serving Greeley and Weld County - Littler Fund, Tom and Donna Roberts, Sea Level Operations, Trinity Episcopal Church, Our Saviors Lutheran Church, Greeley UPS Stores, Sunrise Community Health, Weld Family Chiropractor Clinic, Weld Schools Credit Union and Greeley AfterHours Rotary. More than 20 other sponsors provided funding for school supplies and lunch.

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

START TIMES, TRANSPORTATION TO CHANGE IN NEW SCHOOL YEAR In an effort to reallocate money while meeting the needs of all students, Greeley-Evans School District 6 has announced significant changes in its start and dismissal times, as well changes in bus transportation. These changes will go into effect the first day of school, August 21.

In order to allow high school students a later start to their school day, the district will restructure its transportation patterns and walk distances for all students. This will allow the elimination of 14 bus routes, which is more in line with the number of

drivers District 6 is able to employ.

In addition, neighborhood pickups for high school students will be eliminated. High school transportation will be limited to predetermined stops for students living outside the walk boundary. None of the changes will impact students who qualify for individual transportation through Special Education Services.

This change reflects the inability to hire qualified bus drivers as well as the overall resource challenges in District 6. Beginning August 1, families will be able to look up transportation eligibility and bus stops at the District 6 website at www.greeleyschools.org.

“For most of this year, we have had up to 16 bus driver positions open.

Without more resources, that isn’t going to change,” says Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch These changes will allow the Transportation Department to better operate with existing resources and drivers. Here are the new walking distances that District 6 will now enforce:

• Elementary Schools: 1.5 miles, up from 1.25 previously • Middle Schools: 2 miles, up from 1.5 previously • High Schools: 3 miles, up from 2.5 miles previously

The reduction in high school transportation allows for a shift in start times at all levels, better meeting the needs of all students. Here are the new start and dismissal times that will begin August 21 for all schools: • Elementary Schools, McAuliffe K-8, Winograd K-8, Fred Tjardes School of Innovation: 7:50am to 3:10pm • Middle Schools: 8:30am to 3:55pm • High Schools: 8am

Three schools have slightly different start times due to traffic issues and transportation. They are:

• Chappelow K-8: 8:10am to 3:30pm • Romero K-8: 8:25am to 3:45pm (4-8 Campus); 8:35am - 3:55pm (K-3 Campus). This is not a change from the current start and dismissal times.

• Early College Academy: 7:45am to 3:15pm

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thompson school district news Surplus school bus donated to fire department great example of how the positive relationship between Loveland Fire Rescue Authority and Thompson School District can lead to creative ideas that can benefit both organizations, other emergency response agencies and our community,” he says. “This new training prop can help to ensure that emergency responders are better prepared to safely respond to a variety of potential situations.”

The school bus was officially transferred to LFRA officials in a special signing ceremony last month at the district’s transportation depot.

Board of Education President Lori Hvizda Ward and LFRA Battalion Chief Tim Smith signed the paperwork to formalize the partnership.

On June 21, the Thompson School District Board of Education approved the scheduled disposal of several surplus district fleet vehicles. All of these vehicles have reached the end of their useful life in the service of students and district business and are no longer appropriate to serve the district. TSD is proud to announce that one of the school buses that has been marked for disposal has been donated to the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority (LFRA) to assist local professionals in their ongoing training efforts. The donated bus will allow the agency to simulate a variety of situations, which will help to better prepare trainees for emergencies that they may encounter while on the job.

“LFRA is excited about this bus donation,” says battalion chief Tim Smith.

“This will be our first bus that will be usable in the sense of putting actors inside to conduct trainings. It will be used in a wide variety of training scenarios that will benefit LFRA, Thompson Valley EMS and the Loveland Police Department.

Emergency services will get to use this 32

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prop for many years to come. We are thankful to Thompson School District for the donation.”

Likewise, LFRA public affairs officer Scott Pringle agreed that the partnership will be very beneficial for emergency professionals. “This is a

THOMPSON SCHOOL DISTRICT NAMES NEW DIRECTOR OF TRANSPORTATION Thompson School District is very pleased to announce that it has named Myron Wilson as the new Director of Transportation. He will be filling the position vacated by Terry Ruddick, who has moved to a fleet management position within the district.

Since 2014, Mr. Wilson served as

a transportation terminal manager for Cherry Creek Schools in Aurora, Colo.

As part of his duties, he coordinated and was responsible for the student transportation operation of approximately 100 routes and 110 buses at the Central Transportation Terminal, including direct oversight of student behavior management and driver supervision. He supervised approximately

150 bus drivers and bus assistants and two driver supervisors with oversight of route management, safety and training, vehicle maintenance and dispatch operations personnel. Mr. Wilson’s other career experience includes service as a transportation driver supervisor for Cherry Creek Schools, a transportation supervisor for Laramie County School District in Cheyenne, Wyoming and a senior transportation analyst for Pepsi Co, Inc in Plano, Texas. He served for ten years in the United States Air Force in transportation operations and disaster preparedness.

Mr. Wilson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from DeVry Institute of Technology and has also earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Regis University.

NEW ATHLETIC DIRECTOR / ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL NAMED Thompson School District has named Brian Barringer as Athletic Director and Assistant Principal at Berthoud High

School. He will fill the position that was vacated by Pete Scheck, who has departed the district.

Mr. Barringer comes to Berthoud High School from Lyons Middle/High School, where he served as a physical education, health and weight training teacher and department chair. He also recently served as a summer school principal for Rocky Mountain Elementary School.

Mr. Barringer’s career also includes work as a physical education and health instructor at Meadow Community School, Prairie View High School and Achieve Academy.

He has a vast amount of coaching experience in basketball, football and track and field, including service at Lyons High School, Skyview High School, Mountain Range High School and Metropolitan State University of Denver. Mr. Barringer earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from Metropolitan State University and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from American College of Education in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary student lunches are $2.65, secondary student lunches are $2.90 and reduced lunches are PK-5 free, grades 6-12 $0.40.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 23 Teriyaki meatballs & rice; chicken patty sandwich 24 Beef taco & rice; chicken tenderloin 25 Meat lovers or cheese pizza; veggie wrap 28 Tomato soup & grilled cheese; chicken nuggets 29 Spaghetti & roasted veggies & meat sauce; turkey gravy & roll

30 Thai chicken & rice; hamburger/cheeseburger 31 Beef & bean burrito; trout treasures MIDDLE SCHOOLS 22 Spaghetti & meatballs; cheese ravioli & roll 23 Teriyaki beef chicken & egg roll; turkey & cheese sandwich 24 Beef & bean burrito; Mediterranean salad

25 Tomato soup & grilled cheese; chicken tenderloin 28 Turkey gravy & roll; chicken drumsticks 29 Cheese calzone & marinara; spring vegetable rotini 30 Asian bar: orange beef & egg roll; spring spinach salad 31 Taco bar, beef or chicken & rice

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT—Please check district web pages for updated prices.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 18 French bread boat; chef salad 21 Hamburger; turkey sandwich 22 Cheesy nachos w/taco meat; chicken tender salad 23 Shepherd’s pie; Southwest salad 24 Chicken Alfredo; chef salad w/roll 25 Orange chicken w/rice; fruit salad w/yogurt

28 Chicken breast nuggets; chicken Caesar wrap 29 Cheese quesadilla; Italian salad 30 Farmer’s breakfast; Southwest salad 31 Pizza stick; chef salad w/roll SECONDARY SCHOOLS 18 French bread boat; popcorn chicken 21 Hamburger; burrito

22 Meat & cheese taco; chicken tender salad 23 Shephard’s pie; Southwest salad 24 Chicken Alfredo Pasta; BBQ pulled pork sandwich 25 Orange chicken w/rice; pizza stick w/sauce 28 Chicken breast nuggets; French bread boat 29 Cheese quesadilla; chicken sandwich 30 Farmers breakfast; pizza

GREELEY DISTRICT 6— To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.55, and middle school lunches are $2.80, reduced-price lunches are K-2 free, 3-8 $.40.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 21 Mac n’cheese w/roll; beef hoagie 22 Soft shell taco; chicken salad sandiwhc 23 BBQ chicken w/breadstick; PBJ 24 Stuffed shells w/garlic knot; ham & cheese wrap

25 Cheese pizza; PBJ 28 Breakfast for lunch; Italian sandwich 29 Bean & cheese burrito; green chili 30 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; PBJ 31 Chicken queso gordita crunch; turkey & cheese hoagie

MIDDLE SCHOOL Menus unavailable at press time. Please check district webpage.

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT—Price for elementary lunch is $2.90, for middle school students, $3.15. Reduced lunches are elementary, free; middle school, $0.40.

9 Burger; corndog 10 Chicken tenders; PBJ 11 Cheese or veggie pizza; turkey & cheese sub 14 Cheesy breadstick w/sauce 15 Taco; mini cheeseburger 16 Pancakes & sausage patties; breakfast burrito 17 Popcorn chicken; PBJ 18 Cheese or Hawaiian pizza; turkey & cheese sub 21 Mini raviolis; PBJ

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22 Cheesy nachos; mini cheeseburger 23 Teriyaki chicken; corndog 24 BBQ sandwich; PBJ 25 Personal pan cheese pizza; turkey & cheese sub 28 Mac n’cheese; PBJ 29 Chicken street taco; mini cheeseburger 30 French toast; pancake on a stick 31 Chicken sandwich

MIDDLE SCHOOL 9 Cheeseburger; cheese pizza 10 Chicken tenders; popcorn chicken 11 Chili dog; cheese pizza 14 Pasta bar w/breadstick; cheese pizza 15 Taco; hot & spicy chicken sandwich 16 Pancakes w/sausage patties; cheese pizza 17 Sloppy Joes; chicken nuggets

18 Meatbal sub; cheese pizza 21 Stuffed shells; cheese pizza 22 Burrito bar; personal pan pizza 23 Teriyaki chicken; cheese pizza 24 BBQ pork; hot dog wrap 25 Steak & cheese; cheese pizza 28 Potato bar w/chili; broccoli & cheese corn muffin 29 Chicken street taco; cheeseburger 30 French toast; cheese pizza 31 Chicken sandwich; chicken tenders

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AUGUST 2017 ONGOING YEAR ROUND Tree Trunks Bring forestry-related educational resources for your students, family or daycare. Free for loaning but return deposit required. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 970-416-2486, www. fcgov.com/gardens.

Scout Badge Program Two hours customized to fit the needs of your troop. One adult required for every five scouts. $10. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 970-416-2486, www.fcgov.com/gardens.

THROUGH AUGUST 11 Friday Morning Tot Art Let your young artist explore the world of art! Ages 3-6 with adult. Registration required. $12 ($10 Museum members).

Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10:30-11:30am.

THROUGH AUGUST 19 Healthy Kids Run Series This run series includes seven free, noncompetitive fun runs; kids earn prizes for participating in four or more runs. Ages 5-12. Locations vary. 970-495-7511, www. healthykidsclub.org.

Fit.Teen Run Series Teens receive a $10 discounted 5K rate for the seven runs in this series. Ages 1318. Locations vary. 970-495-7511, www. healthykidsclub.org.

THROUGH OCTOBER 31 Youth Tours A variety of topics built around grade level learning goals. Grades Pre-K-12.

Registration required. $4. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10am-4pm. 970-416-2486, www.fcgov. com/gardens.

AUGUST 1, 8 AND 15 Outdoor Movie Night Free popcorn and a new movie are featured on a blow up screen on the Old Town Square Stage. Old Town Square, FC. 8:1510pm. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

AUGUST 1 AND 15 Bright by Three Provides parents and caregivers with educational tools, books and games to make the most of these important developmental years. Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 12noon-1pm. www.uchealth.org.

AUGUST 2 AND 3 Imagine Greeley Community Workshops During these meetings the City will seek the community’s input on different policy directions the City and community might take through the updated comprehensive plan. Both meetings will provide the same information. Locations vary. 5-6:30pm. www.imaginegreeley.com.

AUGUST 3 AND 10 Drop in Museum Adventures for Kids Explore different topics each week. Aug 3-Felted Portraits; Aug 10-Color Explosion.

Please bring a lunch. Registration required. $16 ($12 Museum members). Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10am-1:30pm. 970-962-2410, www. lovelandmuseumgallery.org.

AUGUST 4 AND 5 Find Your Voice - Take a Stand AntiBullying Workshop This workshop focuses on helping middle school students understand the impacts of bullying and create action plans to eliminate bullying in schools. Vineyard Church of the Rockies, 1201 Riverside Dr., FC. 8:30am-3:30pm. 970-689-0226, camil@frii.com.

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

Loveland (970) 493-7442

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

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AUGUST 4 THROUGH 8 Larimer County Fair & Rodeo You won’t want to miss out on the rodeo, shows, carnival, music and more at this event. Ticket prices and event times vary.

The Ranch, 5280 Arena Cir., LV. www. larimercountyfair.org.

AUGUST 14 THROUGH 30 Cardio, Core & More Increase flexibility, balance and stamina with an entire body workout. 18+. $18.75.

Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., FC. 9-9:50am. 970-221-6644, www.fcgov. com/recreator.

AUGUST 4 AND 11 Neighborhood Nights Join in on this healthy family fun night in the park with tons of great activities.

Westmoor Park, 3800 6th St., GR. 7pm. www.greeleygov.com.

AUGUST 16 AND 17 Home Canning: Pickling Learn how to pickle foods safely at home from Anne Zander, Colorado State University Boulder County Extension Agent. Erie Community Library, Meeting Room, 400 Powers St., Erie. 6-7pm. 888861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

AUGUST 11 THROUGH 13 Bohemian Nights at New West Fest This free community music festival features 80+ bands and is co-produced

by Downtown Fort Collins Business Association and Bohemian Nights. Old Town Square, FC. Times vary. www. bohemiannights.org.

AUGUST 18 THROUGH 20 Senior Weekend This event features 1940s trains and honors all seniors 65+ with $2 off admission. All ages welcome. Ticket prices vary. Colorado Model Railroad Museum, 680 10th St., GR. Fri and Sat-10am-4pm; Sun-1-4pm. 970392-2934, www.cmrm.org.

AUGUST 19 AND 20 Fort Collins Farm Weekend A celebration of the unique agriculture community with a variety of events and activities for everyone. Ticket prices vary.

See website for location details. 9am-9pm. www.fortifiedcollaborations.com.

AUGUST 26 AND 27 Fort Collins Comic Con Fort Collins Comic Con is meant to encourage youth literacy through comic books and other pop-culture mediums, and is a fundraiser for the Poudre River Public Library. Ticket prices vary.

Northside Aztlan Community Center, 211 Willow St., FC. 9am-8pm. www. fococomiccon.com.

Handmade in Colorado Expo A juried event showcasing some of Colorado’s best fine art and contemporary crafts. Bond Park, 250 Park Lane, EP. 10am-7pm. 720-272-7467, www. visitestespark.com.

Reach All of Northern Colorado

with Your Business Today!

To Advertise:

Greg at 970-689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com Scott at 970-980-9183 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 1 Henna-mazing Leah from Face Fiesta will explain how to create beautiful henna designs. Grades 6-12. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 1pm.

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

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2 Backyard Buddies Did you know that when your children play, they are also learning? See this learning in action. Erie Community Library, 400 Powers St., Erie. 10:30-11:30am. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Bilingual Story Express Storytellers will share engaging stories, songs, fingerplays and more in both Spanish and English. Children under 6. Genesis Project, 400 S. Link Lane., FC. 11am. 970-221-6740, www. poudrelibraries.org.

TUESDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 15 Discovery Days Discover Rocky with your family through hands-on activities, crafts and games.

Moraine Park Discovery Center, Bear Lake Rd., EP. 12:30-4:30pm. www.nps.org.

TUESDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 26 City Park Food Truck Rally Bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the music and food at this event. City Park, Jackson St. and Oak St., FC. 6-9pm. www.visitfortcollins.com.

TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS IN AUGUST MetroLux Morning Movies A different family friendly movie will be featured each week. $2. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, MetroLux 14 Theatre, 6085 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 10am.

970-593-9877, www.metrotheatres.com.

WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 11 Youth Photo Camp: The Creativity Sessions The primary objective of the Creativity Class is to allow students to experiment with different types of photography. Prices vary. Center for Fine Art Photography, 400 N. College Ave., FC. 11am-3pm. www.c4fap.org.

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FRIDAYS The Bookfeast Club Talk books, Skype with authors, do some bookish pictionary, have a book swap and generally make a ruckus every Friday.

Grades 9-12. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 11am. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

SATURDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST Discovery Zone in the Children’s Garden Explore various root viewers, explorer tables, garden tools, games and activities.

Volunteer host will assist. 10am-12noon.

Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 970-416-2486 www.fcgov.com/gardens.

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER Birthday Party at the Gardens 90 minutes of birthday fun in The Greenroof Shelter with 30 minutes of Garden instructor-led activities. Two weeks advanced notice required. Ages 2-9. $130 for up to 10 children (including the birthday child). Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 970-416-2486, www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Wendy Woo Band Lagoon favorite singer-songwriter, Wendy Woo, and her band close out the 2017 series! West lawn of CSU’s Lory Student Center, corner of Plum and Meridian, FC. 6-8:30pm. 970-658-8830 www.lagoonseries.com.

Back to School Bash Join your friends for an end-of-summer back to school party. Clearview Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6:30-7:30pm.

970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 3 Bilingual Storytime Join in for Bilingual storytime done in Spanish and English. Ages 0-5 with adult.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 11-11:45am. 970-962-2665, www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Book Talk with Peter Maeck Peter Maeck will present on his new book Remembrance of Things Present: Making Peace with Dementia. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 970-484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Gentle Yoga & Meditation Monthly outdoor yoga and meditation workshop at City Park. 18+. $25. City Park, 1500 W. Mulberry St., FC. 6-7:30pm. 970-221-6644 www.fcgov.com/recreator.

#3ForksFarmDinner

3 Forks

Progressive Farm Dinner Sunday, August 20, 5-9pm Multi-course dinner from local food trucks and bike ride to three local farms.

Tickets $75

All proceeds go to:

www.3forks.ezregister.com

August 8 7-9pm

Odell Brewing Taproom 800 E. Lincoln Ave. Fort Collins

Rooted in Resilience A Jacob Center Youth Fundraiser

Food, live music, drinks and fun!

All ticket sales benefit The Jacob Center Youth Fund, providing at-risk youth funding for basic needs, activities, opportunities, and items aimed at increasing resiliency.

Please email emily@jacobcenter.org to purchase tickets.

The Jacob Center is a proud affiliate of Realities for Children, Inc.

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80517 Centennial Celebration Celebrate the town’s 100th anniversary at this fun event. Bond Park, MacGregor Ave., EP. 11am-5pm. 970-577-3903, www.visitestespark.com.

Back to School Supply Upcycle Use a variety of up-cycled materials to put a unique twist on all your school supplies. Grades 6-10. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 2pm. 888-8617323, www.MyLibrary.us.

MONDAY, AUGUST 7 Book Talk with Danya Kukafka Fort Collins native Danya Kukafka will be in the store discussing her new book Girl in Snow. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 970-484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 Kids’ Fly-fishing and Stream Ecology Over the course of the morning, children will learn about what lives in the riparian ecosystem, the aquatic food web and different fly-casting techniques. Ages 7-15. $25. Rocky Mountain Conservancy, 1895 Fall River Rd., EP. 9am-1pm. 970-5863262, www.visitestespark.com.

Story Express Storytellers travel throughout the District to share engaging stories, songs, fingerplays and more! Children under 6.

Coachlight Apartments, 1550 Blue Spruce Dr., FC. 11am. 970-221-6740, www. poudrelibraries.org.

GLOW Candy Sushi GLOW is an inclusive youth group for teens with alternative identities. This month, roll your own sushi using only candy! Ages 12-18. Clearview Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 4-5:30pm. 970-6865603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Noches en Familia This is a time of children’s stories, crafts, puppets and music in Spanish, that invites fluent speakers as well as those interested in the Spanish language, to enjoy an afternoon in community and family. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. Suite 200, FC. 5pm.

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

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Downtown Sessions Concert Series Free concert featuring a different Colorado band each month. Old Town Square, FC. 6-9pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Fort Collins Gallery Walk Each month, these fine and “folk” art galleries display new showings and open their doors for this self-guided walking tour. Downtown, FC. 6-9pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Movies in the Park Join in for the penultimate Movie in the Park - Grease. Eastman Park, 7025 Eastman Park Dr., WS. 8:30pm. 970674-3500, www.windsorgov.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5

Take Apart Day Deconstruct everything from alarm clocks to printers. See electronics from inside out. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am1pm. www.fcmod.org.

Sensory Storytime for Children with Special Needs Designed for children who have a hard time in large groups, are on the autism spectrum or are sensitive to sensory overload. Preschool-level books, songs and movement are used. Registration required. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10:30am. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8 Tiny Trekkers Enjoy nature-filled crafts, stories and fun facts. Ages 2-5 with adult. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, 1725 Hidden Valley Dr., LV. 10-11am. 970-619-4565, www.larimer.org/ naturalresources.

Promenade Kid Days Free, fun events at the Main Plaza. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, 5971 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 11am-2pm. 970-461-1285, www.thepromenadeshopsatcenterra.com.

Summer Spin-tastic: A Back to School Makers Event Learn all about 3-D printing and then print a fidget spinner. Spinners will be available for pickup on Aug 10.

Registration required. Riverside Library and Cultural Center, Group Program Room, 3700 Golden St., EV. 2-4pm. 888861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Junior Ranger Hike Hike along the Poudre River while you start a Junior Ranger Guide. Ages 7-12.

River Bluffs Open Space, 6101 E. CR 32E, FC. 5-7pm. 970-619-4565, www.larimer. org/naturalresources.

Climate Change: Leaving the Politics Out of It Joe Bowden, scientist and retired Military personnel will discuss this controversial topic in an approachable way. Loveland Public Library, Gertrude Scott Room, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 6:30-7:30pm. 970962-2665, www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

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Summer Camps!

Open to riders of all levels

HORSEBACK RIDING SUMMER CAMPS

MINI EQUESTRIAN & PONY PALS CAMP

Ages 7 & Up • Ready to Show Camp June 6 - 9 • Blue Ribbon Riders Camp July 11 - 14 • Summer Finale Camp August 8 - 11

Ages 5 – 6 • Session 1: June 13 - 15 • Session 2: July 18 - 20 • Session 3: Aug 1 - 3 Stefanie Hoffman, Owner/Instructor

970.402.2536

for registration and camp details visit: inspirationridingacademy.com 42

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All Smiles At Clothes Pony!

Like us on

(970) 224-2866 • 111 N. College Ave. RMPARENT

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Family Bike Night A fun and casual 3-5 mile ride for the whole family. Helmets strongly encouraged. Homestead Park, 3701 W. 29th St., GR. 6:30pm. www.greeleybikes.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9 Annual Youth Fashion Show Support the missions of TEAM Wellness and Prevention and the Boys & Girls Club at this event. Promenade Shops at Centerra, 5971 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 5-7pm. 970-2249731, www.teamwandp.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 11 Anime Drawing Contest Show off your anime skills and join the contest! Ages 12-18. Clearview Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 4-5:30pm. 970-6865603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Back to School Glow Party Help the library celebrate the grand reopening of the teen space with a live DJ, door prizes and games. Ages 8-18. Carbon Valley Library, Meeting Room, 7 Park Ave., Firestone. 6-8pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Stargazing with the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society Get an up-close look at the night sky over the Rockies. Telescopes provided. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, 1725 Hidden Valley Dr., LV. 8:30-10:30pm. 970-619-4489, www.larimer.org/naturalresources.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12 Card & Coffee: Paper Crafting Workshops Learn how to stamp, cut, emboss and watercolor gorgeous greeting cards! Ages 12+ with helper. Registration required. $10.

Loveland Public Library, Erion Room, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 10am-12noon. 970962-2665, www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Interesting Reader Society (Teen IRS) Talk about books, movies, music and other topics of interest. Plan and participate in exciting teen library programs and volunteer activities. Grades 6-12. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 11am.

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

Teen Book Chat: “13 Reasons Why” by Jay Asher Teens can read and keep the book, then discuss the book with teen librarians and Mental Health Professionals from

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the Northern Colorado Zero Suicide Coalition. Grades 6-12. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1:30pm. 970-2216740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 15 Family Retro Gaming Night Attend this retro gaming night to show your tweens and teens how to play your favorite old games. Ages 10+. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6pm. 970221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17 Timnath Community Park Concert: Steve Manshel Band Steve Manshel brings a “mild to wild” classic rock experience to the Timnath stage! Timnath Community Park, 5500 Summerfields Pkwy., Timnath. 6:308:30pm. 970-658-8830, www.timnath.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 18 Geology Hike at the Devil’s Backbone Discover the fascinating geology of Devil’s Backbone. Adult program. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, 1725 Hidden Valley Dr., LV. 10-11:30am. 970-619-4565, www. larimer.org/naturalresources.

Summer Coding for Kids Kids can have fun coding in the ilearn lab. Grades 1-5. Registration is required.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3-4pm. 970-962-2665, www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19 Peach Festival 5K Enjoy all things peachy! Join in for a 5K run or a Kid’s 1 mile fun run while at the peach festival. 201 S. Overland Trail, FC. 8am-12noon. www.downtownfortcollins. com.

2017 Peach Festival Featuring Palisade peaches, music, entertainment, food, kids activities, and more. Civic Center Park and Washington Park, FC. 10am-6pm. www. fortcollinspeachfestival.com.

Yoga in the Gardens with Miramont Lifestyle Fitness Outside on the lawn of the North Patio; all skill levels; bring water bottle and mat.

Ages 12+. $10. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 8:30-9:30am. 970416-2486, www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Is #1 in Colorado

®

Free

Acoustic Radial Wave Therapy

($200 value) with every CoolSculpting® treatment.

Offer Expires: 8/31/17 RMPARENT

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Drumming Circle Experience Celebrate a connection to Earth and other people through this ancient art. 18+. $15.

Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., FC. 9:30-11:30am. 970-221-6644, www.fcgov. com/recreator.

Family Garden Tea Party Use lovely herbs and flowers from the garden to create the most delicious sweets and tea, served on vintage English china. Recipes included. Mention food limitations or allergies at registration. Ages 12+. $30 (10% discount for members).

Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1-3pm. 970-416-2468, www.fcgov. com/gardens.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 20 Culture in the Courtyard Enjoy historic games and crafts as you take a stroll back in time time through the three historic cabins and the 1905 Boxelder one-room schoolhouse. Suggested donation-$3. Library Park, Heritage Courtyard, 200 Mathews St., FC. 1-3pm. www.fcmod.org.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 22 Y is for Yoga Build literacy skills and healthy minds and bodies through books, songs, rhymes and yoga! Ages 0-6. Clearview Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 10-10:45am. 970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23 CSU Flea Market Old Firehouse Books will be participating in CSU’s Flea Market this August. Stop by for free books and Old Firehouse Bucks! CSU’s Lory Student Center Plaza, FC. 8am-4:30pm. 970-484-7898, www. oldfirehousebooks.com.

Community Welcome Over 200 volunteers go door-to-door to help foster a sense of community and connection between students and longterm Fort Collins residents. Meet at CSU Lory Student Center Ballroom C&D, FC. 4:30-8pm. www.ocl.colostate.edu.

Night Sky Photography Learn how to take beautiful night sky pictures. Free, but a $7 day use fee applies.

Pinewood Reservoir, 14980 W. CR 18 E., LV. 7:30-10pm. 970-619-4489, www. larimer.org/naturalresources.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 24 NoCo Bike Show Meet like-minded bike folks, hear stories and learn about events and organizations that promote bikes and healthy active communities. Wolverine Farm Letterpress and Publick House, 316 Willow St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. www.bikefortcollins.org/events.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25 Release party for Todd Mitchell’s The Last Panther Local author Todd Mitchell is celebrating the release of his new middle grade novel The Last Panther. Food and drink provided.

Everyday Joe’s Coffee House, 144 S. Mason St., FC. 5-6:30pm. 970-484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Teen Nerd Prom Kick off Fort Collins Comic Con at the Teen Nerd Prom! Ages 12-18. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6pm.

970-221-6740. Must have a free ticket that can be downloaded from www.

FoCoComicCon.com/teennerdprom.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26 Wonderful Wild Plants of the Devil’s Backbone See what’s in bloom and hear interesting stories about Colorado’s plants. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, 1725 Hidden Valley Dr., LV. 8-10am. 970-619-4565, www. larimer.org/naturalresources.

Monster Day In honor of Monster Day, Greeley miniature monsters will be in the layout with crafts. Ticket prices vary. Colorado Model Railroad Museum, 680 10th St., GR. 10am-4pm. 970-392-2934, www.cmrm.org.

Family Bingo Night Bring a sack dinner, and snacks will be provided. Clearview Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6-7pm. 970-686-5603, www. clearviewlibrary.org.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 27 Pooch Plunge For one day, dogs run the show at City Park Pool. $8-10. City Park Pool, 1599 City Park Dr., FC. 4:30-6:30pm. 970-2216363, www.visitfortcollins.com.

MONDAY, AUGUST 28 Camera Club Have fun with color photography as well as black and white photography. Bring your own camera or five cameras will be available for use during class. Registration required. Ages 8-11. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 3pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Classic Movie Night Featuring War of the Worlds this month.

(1953, PG). Loveland Public Library, Gertrude Scott Room, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 6:30-8pm. 970-962-2665, www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

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time out Ready or not?

Be polite and prepared for kindergarten ELLEN JAVERNICK S

Y

ou’ve gotten the school shoes and selected the scissors in your child’s favorite color.

You’ve even sharpened the pencils because the supply list suggested it. But is your child really ready for school?

Each year when my five children headed off to Garfield, my greatest hope was that they’d be happy and have friends. As a kindergarten teacher now, I‘ve that same wish for all my incoming students. And I know the secret to success. It’s helping children think not just of themselves, but of others as well.

We’re all a little egocentric at times, and children starting school are sometimes especially self-centered.

Unless we point it out, they’re often unaware of the effects their actions can have on those around them.

You’ve probably already helped your child learn not to interrupt, but many boys and girls haven’t had practice putting their hands up when they want to talk. Silly as it might seem, role play hand raising during dinner… and then see how crazy things get when everybody tries to talk at once.

It’s not likely that your family lines up to leave the house, but teachers love lines. Point out to your child that polite kids don’t push in line.

In the early grades politeness equates with popularity. Each semester when my students nominate classmates to win good citizenship awards, they choose children who are polite.

They choose children who’re considerate of the feelings of others….kids who share their friendship as well as their supplies.

When I taught preschool we often worked on the concept of sharing. I remember one little guy who grudgingly agreed to share but only if he could “share first and for a long 50

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time.” Is your child ready to share?

Set up a few practice scenarios.

Kids need to learn the “rules of the road.” Your child probably can’t read speed limit signs, but you can point them out. You can explain that some rules are situational. Going 70 is safe on an open highway, but dangerous in cities. Climbing up slanted slides may be safe at home but dangerous on a crowed playground. Most children have already discovered that rules at Grandma’s are slightly different from rules you have at home.

Take time to talk about how school rules can be different too.

Most schools discourage physical contact, so if yours is a huggy, touchy family prepare your child for a different set of expectations.

Nobody likes a tattletale, and you want your child to be liked. Explain the difference between reporting dangerous activities and tattling to get other kids in trouble. If you’ve a tiny tattle in your house, you might try this response. “I’m glad you don’t do that.”

Sometimes as parents it’s easier to pick up kids clutter than to monitor the clean-up process. One coat on the floor might not be a problem, but imagine twenty coats.

Some teachers display a sign that says “Clean Up After Yourself – Your Mom Doesn’t Work Here.” Set your child up for school success by “giving” pick-up practice at home.

Be sure your child’s ready, not just with school supplies, but with a kind, respectful attitude toward others.

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