RM Parent | SEPTEMBER | 2019 by RM Publishing

SEPTEMBER 2019 â&#x20AC;¢ RMPARENT.COM

HOMESCHOOLING

BASICS Fun golf options

Family biking Another baby?

Kids and therapy Finding calm

Special SEction:

After the

Bell

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Northern Colorado’s only nonprofit speech and language clinic specializing in childhood speech, language and reading development.

970-419-0486

www.csrckids.org

WE OFFER: • Screenings & Evaluations • Speech and Language Therapy • Reading Development • Early Childhood Literacy • Scholarships and sliding-scale fees for incomes up to 100k • Medicaid Provider

Fort Collins: 1330 Oakridge Drive, #10 Loveland: 1511 E. 11th Street, # 290

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LASER TAG NOW OPEN! FORT COLLINS LASER TAG NOW OPEN! ESTES PARK LASER TAG NOW OPEN! FORT COLLINS North College Lanes GREELEY 555 S St Vrain Ave BROOMFIELD Horsetooth Lanes 830 N College Classic Lanes (970) 586-8625 100 Nickel St 217 W Horsetooth (970) 484-4777 2454 8th Ave (303) 466-9700 (970) 226-6327 (970) 353-4275

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Every BODY, Every ABILITY!

Classes and performance opportunities available for ages 4 and up, for all abilities and levels. Affordable rates and scholarships available. FREE TRIAL CLASS!

Fall registration is open! 970.980.8425 www.FRCBallet.com

3501 South Mason Street Unit 1, Fort Collins

Let me help you on your

Health Journey Diana Sproul

SPECIALIZING IN: • digestion • inflammation • immunity

• food allergies • detox • others

(970) 988-5413 • TransformHealth.Biz ContactUs@TransformHealth.Biz

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• Health Coaching • Nutritionist • Herbalist • Energy Medicine

SEPTEMBER 2019

Departments PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Oh, the bicycle—Get some exercise, clear your head, find calm

FIRST YEARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ready for another baby?—Take this quiz and find out

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Golf for the whole family—Fun alternatives to traditional golfing

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12 Family biking—Tips to keeping it fun and safe

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 Deadlines coming for several opportunities— Water-saving gardens, community grants, iron zoo animals and more

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . . 16

Kids and therapy—Benefits, play therapy and when to seek help

Special Section AFTER THE BELL Explore the possibilities for this fall and see what programs these providers offer for your family.

ADV ERT

ISIN

PLE G SUP

MEN

BOUNTY: FALL HARVEST

The harvest is in, now what are you going to do with all of your produce? Find out about canning, freezing and dehydrating.

Features 20 HOMESCHOOLING BASICS

If you are considering homeschooling and need some guidance, look no further. Explore these three primary routes to consider when starting on your homeschooling venture.

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

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 0 Baby Talk—24/7: life with an infant

School District News GR-E 6 School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Greeley-Evans School District 6 Board of Education approves ballot issue for bond, School Kickoff Community Celebration a huge success!

Poudre School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 PSD’s summer music program, New educators welcomed on the red carpet

Thompson School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Welcome letter from Dr. Marc Schaffer, Parent Educational nights

22 FIND CALM THROUGH DAILY HABITS

Now that school is back in session kids are under more pressure to make good grades and excel in extracurricular activities. As life ramps up, watch for signs of stress in your child. Help him find balance between school, activities and down time and to find calm in daily habits.

ABOUT THE COVER: Silvia is an excellent reader, tree climber, and friend to all animals. She’s an introvert that loves to drink tea and craft while listening to music. She balances her quiet ways by playing roller derby (Chewblocka) and keeping her wild little sister in line. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, courtesy of Sky's Open Design.

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perspective Oh, the bicycle

Get some exercise, clear your head, find calm

he bicycle might be the best invention ever. OK, that might be a bit of hyperbole, but it is a pretty great machine. As kids, it expanded our world. All of a sudden, we could visit friends blocks away and have fun doing it. And it gave us a sense of independence as we pedaled away from the house seeking our own adventures. For us, bicycles were vehicles for transportation, amusement, physical activity and self-expression all rolled into one. We used them to get to school while having fun along the way. I had a Schwinn Stingray with a banana seat and baskets on the side for my books and lunch—a little style, a little practicality. As they say, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Kids and bikes are perennial. Transportation to school, recreation on the way home. Check out Theresa Baer’s story on page 12 about how to keep cycling safe and fun for the entire family. Cycling is also a great way for parents to get out without the kids to get some exercise and clear their heads. Fall, with cooler weather and sunny days, seems to call us outdoors. It can also be a hectic time of year with the transition to school days and all that that brings. Finding ways to reduce stress in our own little worlds seems paramount. Sometimes the big ol’ outside world seems a little nutty. When I feel overwhelmed, I like to go for bike ride or a casual run on a trail. I allow my mind to relax, which takes longer sometimes than others, and try to stay aware of my current surroundings. Maybe I hear a bird chattering away or spot bunny in the field. I might even stop to take in the sky. I use my senses to help ground me right here in the present. I feel the breeze on my neck, hear frogs croaking in the pond, see the sunlight patching through the trees. And what am I smelling? The basic idea is to calm my very busy mind by resting it in what is going on right now, not on what I need to do to get dinner ready, or what I should have said to that person who cut me off, or what the national comedy is producing for us today. It’s just so easy to get spun up and overwhelmed. Lynn U. Nichols writes about ways to manage stress and maintain calm during the school year. It’s definitely worth checking out her story. She talks about expectations, balance and creating daily habits of calm. This issue is full of fun and helpful stories. I hope you take a minute to relax and enjoy them. Thanks for reading, Scott

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SEPTEMBER 2019 • Volume 24, Issue 4 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Susan Hartig susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com COVER PHOTO Cheri Schonfeld, Courtesy of Sky’s Open Design - skysopendesign.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson Katie Harris, Lynn U. Nichols

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not 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. ©2019 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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first years

Ready for another baby? Take this quiz and find out

LY NN U. NICHOLS

o matter what, babies mean change. The decision to have another while you are still busy with the first or second is rarely easy. Whether its money, time, energy or simply that the house is too small, there’s usually a hurdle to overcome before deciding to grow your family. Accepting that there may never be a perfect time is a good place to start. Determining just how high that hurdle is, and whether or not you can clear it without breaking something, comes next. That’s where our five-question quiz comes in handy! 1. ARE YOU BOTH GETTING THE URGE? Did you answer yes? Give yourself a point toward having another! Yet, if one parent is adamantly not ready, keep those birth control pills handy and resist buying into the myth that babies bring couples together. Men tend to make the decision to have a child from a practical standpoint, while women make it from an emotional one. Honor his concerns and wait until finances and other basics are in order. 2. ARE YOU STILL WIPED OUT FROM NUMBER ONE? A “not really” or “no” answer means you might be ready! Yet, if your current children are more than enough to handle, put on the breaks. Throw on the emergency brake, too, if just the thought of having another baby in diapers makes you tired. Consider how good you are at tolerating lack of sleep, stress, noise and chaos. With kids close together, you get more of this—the payoff is that your kids get playmates closer to their age. If chaos is unappealing, a larger spread might be better, or stopping at one. 3. ARE YOU WAITING FOR JUST THE RIGHT AGE SPREAD? This is a trick question, because both “yes” and “no” answers are correct. 8

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Studies vary on what’s the ideal age gap between siblings, so don’t bring that into your decision. For years, we’ve heard three years between children is optimal. Yet a study conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that a gap of 18 to 23 months gave the healthiest outcome for both mothers and babies. Who’s right? Don’t worry about it. Instead, choose the time that works best for you. 4. IS YOUR FIRST SLEEPING EIGHT-HOUR STRETCHES? A “yes” or “mostly” or “definitely getting there” are all acceptable answers when it comes to planning for another baby. Most babies sleep eight hours a night by six months, but not always, and not usually consistently. Sleep deprivation is no joke. It can feel a lot like torture when you are systematically awakened every few hours, when all your entire being wants to do is sleep. It’s tough for new parents to be patient, make decisions and adapt to new situations when they

are constantly getting interrupted sleep. If you are still struggling with sleep deprivation, or if your first child seems behind in the sleep or maturity category, it might be wise to wait a bit before considering another. 5. CAN YOU AFFORD IT? When it comes to increasing your family, you hate to have to think about money. Yet if you answer “no,” it is best to wait until you get on your feet financially. Kids are expensive. According to the US Department of Agriculture, it costs on average $14,000 a year to raise a kid. That’s $238,000 when it’s all said and done—and it doesn’t include college! Money worries is one of the top concerns of parents, and a major reason couples have conflict. Remember, there is no perfect time to have another child. Don’t wait for it to get quiet and easy, it never will. Parents rarely feel 100 percent ready, but if you answered more of these questions correctly, then it might be time to go on that romantic weekend you’ve been dreaming about.

Book your child’s dental exam today!

FREE EXAM

for children under 2!

A general dentistry practice that’s all about kids and young adults, ages 0-20!

970-635-4353

126 East 29th Street Loveland

www.kindergrins.com Monday - Thursday 8-5

Includes Exams, Cleaning, Fluoride, X-Rays. One coupon per patient. New patients only and without insurance. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit. Expires: 9/30/19 RMP 0919

Dine out

on us! SPECIAL OCCASION? DATE NIGHT? FAMILY GET-TOGETHER?

You choose, we’ll pick up the bill! Every month RM Parent chooses a random facebook follower to recieve a gift card to one of the finest restaurants in Fort Collins. Follow us on facebook to become our next lucky winner!

FREE light-up toothbrush for NEW patients

One coupon per family. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit. Expires: 9/30/19 RMP 0919

facebook.com/RockyMountainParent

$75 New Patient Exam

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family activities

Golf for the whole family Fun alternatives to traditional golfing

KATIE HARRIS

ith the heat of summer waning and beautiful days ahead, September is an ideal time to spend on the golf course! Bad weather? No problem! Northern Colorado offers a variety of indoor and outdoor options for kids who want to learn the sport, but aren’t quite ready for a par 3. The whole family will enjoy these fun alternatives to traditional golfing! OUTDOOR MINI GOLF Fort Fun

Located at 1513 E. Mulberry St. in Fort Collins, Fort Fun offers two, open year-round, mini-golf courses. Sand traps and water hazards ensure that even the most experienced mini-golfer will find himself challenged! The “Old Fort Course” features replicas of local pioneer structures, and includes an opportunity to putt through a model of Horsetooth Rock, a cave, and a waterfall! The second course features the whimsical “Camelot Fortress,” along with a butterfly garden, water fountains and a winding stream. A round of golf costs $6/ages 4-12, $8.75/ adult, $7.75/senior, and free for ages 3 and under. Guests can play both courses for a discounted rate of $12/person. Fort Fun’s mini-golf courses are open Su-Th, 10am-10pm and F-Sa, 10am-midnight. For more information visit www.fortfun. biz/mini-golf/. Greeley Family FunPlex

Outside the Greeley Family FunPlex, located at 1501 65th Ave. in Greeley, guests can play 18 holes of mini-golf on the River Run Course. The course, which was designed to replicate the Poudre Canyon, is a great place to enjoy outdoor fun while learning about Greeley’s water supply system. A round of golf costs $5/ages 6-15, $6/adult, $5/ senior, and $2/child 5 and under, and is included in daily admission to the 10

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FunPlex. Weather permitting, hours for the course are as follows: M-F, 5am10pm; Sa, 7am-8pm; Su, 11am-8pm. For details visit www.greeleyrec.com/ INDOOR MINI GOLF Glow Golf

Everything glows in the dark at Glow Golf ! Located at 6065 Sky Pond Dr. Ste. N-118 in the Promenade Shops at Centerra, the building is covered in brightly painted, glow-in-the-dark animals, the courses stand out in the dimly lit ambiance, and charging stations throughout the building keep even the golf balls glowing! At Glow Golf, guests can play all 54 holes for one price. For children ages 5-12, the cost is $8, the cost for adults is $10, seniors and ages 4 and under are $5 each. Glow Golf is open M-Th, 3:30-9pm; F, 3:3011pm; Sa, 11am-11pm; and Su, 11am6pm. Visit www.opryglowgolf.com Old Town Putt

Fort Collins’ newest putt-putt course is located in The Exchange at 244 N. College Ave. Ste. 112. This indoor 9-hole is not your average mini-golf

course! The nine custom-designed holes on 3,500 sq. ft. of greens feature musical elements, unique obstacles and fun surprises. Ages 12 and under cost $6.50/ round, while adults cost $8.50. The Old Town Putt course is open to all ages daily from 10am-8pm, with adult only hours after 8pm. To learn more visit www.oldtownputt.com. S.N.A.G. (STARTING NEW AT GOLF) SNAG course at Cattail Creek

For a twist on mini-golf, try your hand at S.N.A.G! Located at Cattail Creek Golf Course, 2116 W. 29th St. in Loveland, S.N.A.G. features longer fairways and larger greens than a traditional putt-putt course, yet a whole game can be completed in under an hour. The nine holes feature a variety of slopes and distances to help aspiring golfers practice their skills using just two clubs: a driver and a putter. The cost for a round of golf is as follows: ages 5-12, $6; adult, $7; 4 and under, free. The S.N.A.G. course is open daily and year round, weather permitting, from 6:30am-dusk. For more information visit www.cityofloveland.org

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learn and live

Family biking

Tips to keeping it fun and safe THERESA BAER

s temperatures cool down this fall, take some family bike rides after school or on the weekends. Enjoy great exercise, fresh air and family bonding time. Following are some tips to help you keep it fun and safe so everyone will want to do it again and again. BEFORE THE RIDE Safety first! Proper-fitting helmets are mandatory for both children and parents to protect them from brain injuries and death. You can see how to fit a helmet and other important bicycle safety rules in last month’s article about biking/walking to school (see page 21 of the August Parent) or online at National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at www.nhtsa. gov/road-safety/bicycle-safety. If needed, some local organizations occasionally offer free helmets and bike lights for children and adults. Make sure your bicycles are in good working condition with tires inflated and brakes working. You might also want to learn how to fix a slipped chain. Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Bring sunscreen, a small first-aid kit and bike tool kit for changing f lat tires— it happens. DON’T FORGET TO BRING WATER! Always take water bottles—you can keep them handy on the bike with a bottle cage that will make the kids feel important. If you’re planning a longer ride, consider bringing a snack to eat during a break along the route, or select a destination where you can enjoy a special treat such as ice cream—that will always increase the fun factor! TRAFFIC SAFETY Teach your kids to be aware and 12

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Just Ride stop, look and listen to what’s going on around them. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), children under 10 years old do not yet have the maturity to make decisions necessary to ride safely in the street and are better off riding on a sidewalk (if permissible)—or here in northern Colorado, on a trail. Explain the rules of the road. Teach your children to ride single file, staying on the right side and to pass pedestrians and other riders with care by using a bell or calling out clearly when they are passing. To avoid collisions, teach them to give space to other riders and use hand signals to indicate when they are slowing/stopping and turning. There are many local classes to learn about smart cycling in traffic—even some focused specifically on bicycling with children. For younger children, give

Local resources for information on bicycle safety education, trails and gear: • Bike Fort Collins www.bikefortcollins.org • City of Loveland www.cityofloveland.org • FC Bikes 970-221-6705 www.fcgov.com/bicycling • Greeley Bikes 970-350-9423 www.greeleybikes.com

simple directions that get to the point to avoid losing their attention. KEEP IT FUN Start short and work up to lengthier rides as your children get older and get used to the pace. Pay attention to your children to see if they’re getting hot or tired— it might be time for that break. Offer positive encouragement and praise and maintain a great attitude yourself as positivity can be contagious.

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community news Deadlines coming for several opportunities Water-saving gardens, community grants, iron zoo animals and more THERESA BAER

The September 13 deadline is quickly approaching for small community grants from Larimer County Natural Resources. Limited to $3,000 per project, the grants are offered to individuals, organizations, schools and homeowner associations in Larimer County for community, neighborhood and group projects that would protect or enhance natural areas; increase access to existing open spaces; provide environmental education or outdoor recreation and more. Learn more from the Larimer County Natural Resources website at www.larimer.org/ naturalresources/small-grants. CONSERVE WATER, SAVE MONEY AND ADD BEAUTY WITH A GARDEN IN A BOX Now is the time to order your fall Garden in a Box to brighten your landscape, attract essential bees, conserve water and help save money on your water bill compared to a traditional grass lawn. Choose the pre-designed kits tailored to Colorado’s climate and soil based on size and sun exposure. They come with simple plant-by-number maps that make it easy to arrange your garden. Plus, several local water providers are offering $25 discounts including City of Fort Collins, City of Greeley, Fort Collins Loveland Water District, Loveland Water & Power and Northern Water. Order now at www.resourcecentral.org to pick up September 14 and get planting! VISIT THE SWETSVILLE ZOO BEFORE IT’S GONE After 35 years of sharing his creative sculptures from farm equipment, car parts, scrap metal and more, Bill Swets has decided to sell his property just east of I-25 and Harmony Road. Known as the Swetsville Zoo, this beloved free 14

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roadside attraction near the Poudre River has entertained visitors of all ages with hundreds of creations including birds, bugs, dinosaurs, spaceships and more. The future is unknown as to where these creations will land when the property sells, so take your family for a fun tour now before it possibly disappears forever. PARENT SURVEY REGARDING EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS The Colorado Office of Early Childhood (OEC) is looking for input from families of children ages 0–5 to learn about the programs and services desired or needed to give their children a strong start in school. The brief online survey was developed in conjunction with the Colorado Health Institute (CHI) to inform how the Colorado Shines Brighter Preschool

Development Grant (https://colo. health/ColoradoShinesBrighter) can ensure all Colorado children are ready for school when entering kindergarten. They also want to hear from families not utilizing formal early childhood programs to learn about their preferences and/ or barriers to participation. If you are a parent of a child between the ages of 0 and 5, please take a moment to complete the survey at http:// colo.health/parentsurvey. Survey respondents will be eligible for a chance to win a $200 gift card. $392,000 RAISED FOR REALITIES FOR CHILDREN Each year, Colorado-based Santiago’s Mexican Restaurants chooses an organization that aligns with the core values of the Santiago’s founding

family—one that gives back to the community—for their annual charity campaign. This year Santiago’s chose Realities For Children as the recipient of the funds to help support northern Colorado children that have been abused, neglected, abandoned or are at-risk. The campaign ran from March 1 to August 2 and raised $292,000 in donations from customers at each of Santiago’s 28 locations, restaurant owners, vendors, friends and family, in addition to fundraising through their annual golf tournament. With an additional $100,000 matching donation from Lion Home Service, the grand total came in at an amazing $392,000. PEDALING THE POUDRE TOURS Learn about the various uses and benefits of the Cache la Poudre River in our community. Explore this waterway on a free one-way 9-mile bicycle tour with citizen leaders, volunteers, scientists, planners and water managers on either Saturday, September 21 from 1-4pm or Sunday, September 22 from 9am to noon. Presented by the Poudre Heritage Alliance, Water Education Colorado, the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed, City of Fort Collins Utilities, and Bike Fort Collins, the rides begin at the Watson Lake

parking area, 4900 Rist Canyon Road in Bellvue and travel east along the Poudre River Trail making stops at points of interest along the way until just past Lincoln. This is not a round trip, so you’ll need to plan accordingly or discuss carpool/shuttle options upon registering at www. watereducationcolorado.org.

Bike Association, the trail provides one mile of scenic hiking and expertlevel mountain biking in a previously inaccessible landscape. The popular Bobcat Ridge is open daily from dawn to dusk. Avoid busy weekends between 9am and 3pm as the parking lot becomes full and there is no parking on the road.

NEW TRAIL AT BOBCAT RIDGE NATURAL AREA Mountain bikers and hikers alike will appreciate the new On the Rocks Trail at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area. Co-created by City of Fort Collins Natural Areas staff and volunteers from Northern Colorado Grassroots, Otterbox, and Overland Mountain

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR UPCOMING LOVELAND CONNECT The eighth annual Loveland Connect (www.lifecenternoco.org/serve/ loveland-connect) is an event offering the homeless or near homeless over 40 services in one location. In addition to providing needed resources, it provides a significant opportunity to come together as a community with volunteers interacting with Loveland citizens who are facing tough times. Event guests are paired with a volunteer to guide them through the event—first sharing a meal together and then gathering information about housing, accessing medical or dental care, bike repair services, hygiene services and more. Loveland Connect will take place Friday, October 11 from 8am to 1pm at Truscott Elementary, located at 211 W. 6th Street in Loveland. Volunteers will need to attend one of the 90-minute training sessions scheduled for October 4, 7 and 9. Make a connection to those who need it most by registering to volunteer online or calling the Community Partnership Office at 970-962-2517. RMPARENT

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healthy living

Kids and therapy

Benefits, play therapy and when to seek help LEA HANSON

ife is tough and there are times we need professional support, regardless of our age. Just like adults, children and teens have problems that affect how they feel, act, or learn. Therapy is one way to seek healing and treatment for these problems. BENEFITS OF THERAPY Dr. Mollie Painton, a Psychologist who has practiced therapy with kids, families, and adults in Northern Colorado for more than 30 years says the main benefit of a child working with a professional therapist rather than their parent(s) or other adults in their lives is that they have a neutral person who can hear and help them process their feelings. “With a therapist,” Painton says, “the child is more likely to feel safe to say anything they feel like saying… even about their parents.” THE IMPORTANCE OF PLAY THERAPY Play therapy is firmly established as the foundational context for children’s therapeutic experiences because play is children’s first and primary language. Painton says, “For kids, a playroom is essential because play is their language. For adults, language is more likely to be talking.” Play therapy is a structured approach to therapy that builds upon the natural communicative and learning processes of children. Therapists use play therapy to help children express what is troubling them when they do not have the verbal language to express their thoughts and feelings. In play therapy, toys are like the child’s words and play is the child’s language. The positive relationship that develops between therapist and child during play therapy can provide the emotional experience 16

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necessary for healing. Play therapy is used with children of all ages for all sorts of needs including anxiety disorders, obsessivecompulsive disorders, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity, autism spectrum, oppositional defiant and conduct disorders, anger management, crisis and trauma, grief and loss, divorce and family dissolution, academic and social developmental, and physical and learning disabilities. WHEN TO SEEK THERAPY In general, if your child experiences emotional or behavioral problems, the earlier they get treatment, the easier it is to help them. But as parents, you also want to avoid unnecessary treatment and costs in both time and money. Painton says, “When a child indicates or says they want to die or

not be around, seeking therapy and professional support is essential and immediate.” However, and fortunately, this is not most families’ experience. More often, parents and caregivers notice slighter signs, Painton says. “When kids are really withdrawn and not wanting to do the things they used to want to do, if they have panic attacks, or describe feeling panic, it’s worth it to seek support from a professional.” Also, Painton says, if the parent knows the child has experienced a trauma— either inside or outside of the family’s experience—it is always worthwhile to seek professional help. In situations such as this, it’s not necessarily to seek support immediately. Most kids are able to naturally process through stressful life changes without the support of a therapist so ‘watching and waiting’ is a viable approach for parents.

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Every BODY, Every ABILITY! Our instructors love to encourage and nurture the special gifts each student brings to dance, no matter their age or ability or prior training. We are delighted to serve youth who are neuroatypical or differently ablebodied, by providing one-on-one instruction, as well as making accommodations for group Front Range Classical Ballet

classes. Pre-professional dancers

Academy is excited to announce

are given training which prepares

the grand opening of our new

them for future ballet careers for

studio! It features custom-built

dancer counts and no

such prestigious places as the

sprung dance floors, which are

Houston Ballet Academy.

one is overlooked.”

designed to prevent chronic

—Deneice Dyer

injuries in legs, feet, and back.

FRCBA director, Ixchel Levendosky,

With a beautiful large studio,

has been sharing her love

and a smaller, more intimate

and knowledge of dance with

studio, FRCBA offers classes for

countless students throughout

everyone. Whether you’re 3 years

northern Colorado for over 25

old or 99, we have a place for you

years. Petite Ballerinas director,

970.980.8425

here, with abundant performance

Deneice J. Dyer, has been teaching

3501 S. Mason Street

opportunities, regardless of level or

for 30 years and provides a loving

Unit 1, Fort Collins

physical ability. A hallmark of our

and fun environment for budding

www.FRCBallet.com

studio is personalized instruction,

dancers, ages 3-11, in partnership

which is geared towards each

with FRCBA. Come join us for a

student’s goals.

FREE trial class!

“At Front Range Classical Ballet Academy, every

PETITE BALLERINA DIRECTOR

Fall registration is open! 18

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Homeschooling Katie Harris

BASICS

Explore non-public home-based education, independent school enrollment and online school

f you’re considering homeschooling your kids but find the whole process intimidating, you’re not alone. While the do-it-yourself alternative to traditional schooling has been on the rise in recent years, there remains little by way of comprehensive resources to help prospective families understand the requirements and options available to homeschoolers. The good news is, getting started with homeschooling is the hardest part, and we have all the information you need to make the transition right here! There are three primary routes to consider when starting out on your homeschooling venture: non-public home-based education, independent school enrollment, and online school.

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NON-PUBLIC HOME-BASED EDUCATION Non-public home-based education is a good choice for parents who want to take their child’s education into their own hands, and don’t plan to make religious studies part of their homeschooling experience. Families who choose this route are required to file a Notice of Intent form with a Colorado school district each year that they homeschool. The forms for local districts can be found here:

• Greeley District 6: www.greeleyoptions. org/letters-of-intent.html • Poudre District: www.psdschools.org/ sites/default/files/PSD/alternative_programs/ Home-School%20Intent_Write_GC.pdf • Thompson District: www. thompsonschools.org/Domain/2468

In addition, families are required to keep attendance records proving they school for at least 172 days per year, as well as immunization records and some form of academic records. Homeschooled students who go this route are also required to take a Nationally Standardized Achievement test, or be professionally evaluated by a qualified person, in odd grades beginning in third. Students who take a test must score above the 13th percentile to remain in a homeschooling program and results must be submitted to the district. Examples of Nationally Standardized Achievement tests include the Iowa Test of Basic Skills, California Achievement Test (CAT), Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills

(CTBS), and others. Many of these tests may be administered at home by a parent, and can be ordered online from Seton Testing Services (www. setontesting.com). Students who are evaluated must show sufficient progress in all state mandated subjects. Testing and evaluation results should be sent to the school district that the Intent to Homeschool form was filed with. An advantage of homeschooling through your local school district is the option of enrolling in a public homeschooling program one day a week. The following programs are designed for homeschoolers, publicly funded and free to attend:

CHESS (www.coloradoheritage.org/ independent-school/), and FACE (www.faceschool.org). The requirements for schooling through an independent school are slightly different than schooling through the district. No intent form is filed with the district, instead students are enrolled in the independent school during the year prior to beginning homeschooling. Independent schools have their own policies which students are expected to abide by, but follow the state’s requirements on attendance. They may require annual enrollment fees. Students must be tested or evaluated by a professional or parent during odd calendar years. Independent schools give students the option of attending a private school of their choice for up to 50 percent of their schooling.

Some of these programs also offer curriculum libraries where families can borrow a year’s worth of textbooks at no cost. In addition, students may participate in athletics and other extracurricular activities through their home district providing they meet the requirements of said district, typically including maintaining a minimum grade point average and in some cases paying a fee.

ONLINE SCHOOL The third option for homeschoolers is to enroll in an online school, such as Connections Academy; an online public school available through the state of Colorado (www.connectionsacademy. com/), or Thompson School District’s option, Thompson Online (www. thompsonschools.org/thompson-online). This is a good option for parents interested in home learning for their children without the large commitment of lesson planning and full-time teaching on their part. Both options are publicly funded.

• Greeley District 6: www.greeleyoptions. org/what-is-options.html • Poudre District: www.psdschools.org/ schools/alternative-schools-programs/ homeschool • Thompson District: www.tsdleap.org/

INDEPENDENT/UMBRELLA SCHOOL Another option for families is to enroll in an independent school, also referred to as an umbrella school. These schools provide families with a homeschooling option that does not require reporting to their local school district. Popular options include Christian Home Educators of Colorado (www.chec.org),

STATE STANDARDS Anyone considering homeschooling should visit www.cde.state.co.us/choice/ homeschool to learn more about state law for homeschoolers, and explore the “Resources” and “Frequently Asked

Questions” sections available on the site. Parents who are considering reenrolling their children in public school at some point in the future might also find it helpful to have a copy of the State Academic Standards on hand (www. cde.state.co.us/standardsandinstruction/ coloradostandards-academicstandards). These standards are followed by all public schools in Colorado and following them to some extent will ensure that students stay on track with their local school’s coursework. CHOOSING CURRICULUM The next step for families who choose non-public home-based education or an independent school is to choose curriculum. Parents can purchase a full curriculum, which covers every subject, mix and match, or teach out of library books—the choice is yours. Knowledge Bound in Windsor (knowledgebound.net/) and Probasco’s Christian Bookstore in Loveland (www.probascosbookstore.com) offer homeschool supplies, and www.amazon. com and www.thriftbooks.com are great places to find books to supplement various curriculums. In addition, online resources such as www.khanacademy. org, www.brainpop.com, and www. lexialearning.com are popular aids for teaching at home. MORE INFORMATION For more information, including legal information for homeschoolers, national and local support groups, student clubs, and additional resources visit the Home School Legal Defense Association’s website at www.hslda.org or the Northern Colorado Homeschool Association’s website at www.ncha.info. RMPARENT

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Find calm through daily habits

3 WAYS TO MANAGE STRESS DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR

LYNN U. NICHOLS

chool’s a few weeks underway and things are getting serious. No more sharing about summer vacations. No more fun games to break the ice. The first tests are about to happen and assignments are ramping up. It’s fullon school, and your kids are probably feeling it, too. Have you noticed they’ve been extra snappy or more difficult to get out of bed? That’s stress. Set the school year out right by reframing your expectations around school and introducing daily habits for managing stress and staying calm. 1. EXPECT LESS WHEN IT COMES TO GRADES Expecting top grades from your kids causes stress, no doubt about it. Kids care what their parents think, and if they get the message that they have to get high grades to earn your praise, respect, or love, then they feel stress. Setting too high of expectations sends the message that ‘you are only worthy if you perform well’ and reinforces perfectionism. It may seem like strange advice, but lower your expectations. The truth is, many of the things that are important can’t be measured by a report card. So, 22

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trade in some external successes for some internal ones—like whether or not your child knows how to be a good sport or friend, or feels loved, regardless of output. Think about it. If you expect less and accept more, you’ll have more peace of mind—and so will your kids. Let’s put some numbers to it for perspective. By demanding uncompromising grades, you might think you are helping your child become a high achiever who will land a full-ride scholarship to college. According to a recent National Postsecondary Student Aid Study, only 0.2 percent of students received $25,000 or more in scholarships per year in 2016. If your child expresses worries about tests and grades, it might be a sign that you are pushing too hard. Or maybe they have tied their self-worth too closely with doing well in school. “Test anxiety or worry over grades is usually related to how parents react to their child’s grades, at least through middle school,” says Dr. Usha Udupa, a child psychotherapist with UCHealth’s Mountain Crest Behavioral Health Center. If your child is not performing as well as you think they should, first

ask the teacher about distractions or lack of effort. Middle school is a time when parents might see a slip in grades because that’s when schoolwork traditionally gets harder and kids have to juggle multiple classes. “Reassure your child that all you expect is hard work, not perfect grades,” Udupa says. Middle School is also a time when learning disabilities can surface, so if that’s a concern, get your child tested. If your child traditionally starts out strong then starts slipping, share your concerns with her teacher. She might feel overwhelmed and find it easier to look away. Ask a favorite teacher to provide extra help organizing her schedule or sorting out her homework priorities. A child who feels stress about not being able to keep up with classmates may start acting out in class or saying school is stupid to lessen the pressure. “Parents should actually say the words, ‘you don’t have to be the best’ so kids know there are no unspoken expectations,” Udupa says. If your child’s failures upset you, explore why. Know that most kids are

strong in a few subjects, rather than all of them. “Parents might need to step back and ask themselves, ‘Is this my expectation or theirs?’ If it’s the child’s, pressure in the form of support is fine but it’s the parent’s job to help kids find balance,” Udupa adds. Show your kids unconditional love by respecting their efforts and never withholding love or affection. Create a safe atmosphere where your child feels comfortable to tell you about his life— both successes and failures—without fear of ridicule, punishment or judgement. 2. FIND THE RIGHT BALANCE BETWEEN SCHOOL, ACTIVITIES AND DOWN TIME Rarely does one-size-fit-all when it comes to how much activity your family can handle. While one child might insist you sign them up for everything from soccer to piano lessons, the next might resist even one scheduled activity a week beyond school. Everyone has their own stress limit based on their temperament. In a Stanford University study of over 8,000 high school kids, kids spent an average of 9.6 hours during the school week on outside activities. Of those, most enjoyed the activities rather than feeling stressed out by them. Yet 69 percent of the same kids said they felt stressed over schoolwork—often or always. If you can’t sit down and have dinner together at least a few times a week, you are likely running the family engine too hot. Remember, if the schedule is overwhelming for you, it’s probably overwhelming for them. That’s why it’s important to know your kids’ stress levels and honor them. That doesn’t mean you should avoid signing up your shy child for an activity, but keep him involved in the choice. Kids feel more relaxed when they have some control about what goes on in their lives. They also have more motivation to follow through. Be willing to slow down and hang out at home, if that’s what your child requests. It’s also okay to rein in the extraverted child that wants to attend six activities a week. Set limits when you find yourself frantically trying to keep up with her schedule, or when her

SIGNS OF SCHOOL STRESS  T ROUBLE SLEEPING Sleep problems including bedwetting, insomnia, nightmares or trying to crawl into bed with you are all signs of stress.  F AKING SICK FOR SCHOOL Feigning a stomach ache or headache regularly, or asking to stay home from school, are signs that school is overwhelming your child.  D ROP IN GRADES Dropping grades can signal that your child is too challenged in class, or too stressed to concentrate.  E MOTIONAL OUTBURSTS AFTER SCHOOL Bursting in tears during homework, being irritable and moody after school or excessively worrying about grades or tests are all signs of school stress.

activities cut in on valuable family time. 3. CREATE DAILY HABITS OF CALM An easy way to limit stress for your family is to watch less news, or watch after your kids go to bed. Knowing that horrible things happen in the world knocks both kids and adults off their center. Kids in their early elementary years are especially vulnerable to developing irrational fears in reaction to bad news. “Kids at this age tend to think that if something happened there, it could happen here. Bad news can cause anxiety in any child, but for those prone to anxiety, it can push them over the edge,” says Udupa. Many people find peace and a sense of being centered and calm through meditation and yoga. If your child is stressed or upset, encourage these activities in a class setting or at home. An easy meditation technique for kids is OM mantra chanting: Sit up straight and place your hand in the Gyan Mudra position (tips of thumb and index finger meeting while resting your wrists on your knees). Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Then exhale and chant “OM” as long as you can. Repeat. If desired, replace the OM with simple deep breathing, staying aware of each breath. City recreation departments often offer yoga classes for the whole family. The City of Fort Collins offers a Family Yoga class for parents and kids ages 4 to 12. They also offer a Teen Yoga class for kids ages 11 to 16. Both have

sessions starting in September, October and November. Visit www.fcgov.com/ recreator for more. Being in nature is a universal way to experience a sense of peace. When we are still in nature, we tend to get reflective and contemplate the world around us and our own life circumstances. Gazing over a vast space or at the stars can make us feel like our own lives and inner worries are small and insignificant, helping us find perspective. Vow to get outside daily and either sit still or get active. Life’s busy, so keep it simple. Pack a picnic dinner and eat in a park. Establish the habit of an after-work bike ride around the neighborhood. Create Move it Mondays with family races or games of tag in the back yard. On the weekend, go deeper with hikes and bike rides. It may seem like moving your body is the opposite of calm, but stress builds up in our bodies, so letting out tension through physical exercise helps us sleep better, digest better and feel better about ourselves. Every day, take a few minutes to unwind together and do nothing. Sit still and hold your child. Take deep breaths. You’ll discover that your child’s heart beat and breaths will slow down to match yours. Help your child identify when her heart is beating fast or when she feels butterflies in her stomach. When she does, ask her what makes her feel better and do it—whether it is taking time to sit and snuggle or running around the back yard. You have the power to establish a calmer, more manageable life for your family. RMPARENT

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Preserving THE

Harvest KATIE HARRIS

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Can safely THE ONLY THING BETTER than feasting on fresh, homegrown produce each summer is savoring the fruits (and veggies) of your labor all year long. Food preservation, the act of preventing microorganisms from growing, thus preventing food-borne illness, can be accomplished through a number of processes. The most common and user-friendly are freezing, dehydrating and canning. Freezing is a simple and straightforward process which typically involves blanching vegetables by placing them in boiling water for a short time, then bringing to a rapid cool. After chilling, the vegetables should be stored in the

Find help at these locations “Not all information on websites and in books is safe,” says Edie McSherry, a CSU Extension agent in the Larimer County office for food safety and food preservation education programs, “It’s important to look for tested, up-to-date recipes and instructions from credible sources.” Supplies to help preservers get started can be purchased locally at grocery stores, kitchen supply stores and box stores or online. McSherry recommends the following websites, all of which offer troves of information for aspiring food preservers: Ball brand website—www.freshpreserving.com National Center for Home Food Preservation—www.nchfp.uga.edu Colorado State University Extension—www.extension.colostate.edu/publications-2/

freezer in airtight containers to prevent the formation of ice crystals and freezer burn. Many varieties of fruit can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet before packaging. Edie McSherry, a CSU Extension agent in the Larimer County office for food safety and food preservation education programs says freezing is an ideal method when aiming to maintain the consistency of certain foods, for example, when preserving peaches to make a pie over the winter. The dehydrating method can be accomplished using a home oven or a dehydrator. The process involves removing the moisture from food by heating it

for a long period of time at a low temperature to prevent the growth of microorganisms. McSherry recommends this method when making food items such as jerky for a backpacking trip. Canning can be a slightly trickier method. Acidic foods such as tomatoes, fruits, relishes, jams and jellies don’t carry the risk of botulism when processed correctly through boiling water baths. For non-acidic foods, including most vegetables, pressure canning is required. According to McSherry, each method requires great attention to detail to be successful. “It’s really important to know your altitude and adjust accordingly or call RMPARENT

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the Larimer County Extension office for help when canning,” says McSherry. “Anywhere above 1000 feet requires canning processes to be adjusted. Our boiling point is lower so we add time during the boiling water bath, and we add pressure to compensate for our lower atmospheric pressure. This is really critical for safety.” However, despite the greater challenges with canning, McSherry says it’s a popular method because it doesn’t require electricity in storage the way freezing does, and it opens the door to a wide range of food preservation possibilities. “I recommend that a beginner start with something simple, like a jam,” she

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says. “They quickly learn that they can move on to pickles, canned fruit and other items because they all use the same method.” According to McSherry, the most important thing to remember when preserving food is to find reliable information (see sidebar). McSherry and a group of Master Food Safety Advisor volunteers from the Larimer County Extension are available every Saturday from 8am-noon at the Larimer County Farmer’s Market in Old Town Fort Collins to answer questions and offer guidance in all aspects of food preservation. McSherry can also be reached by phone at 970-498-6000 or

by email at emcsherry@larimer.org. In addition, the Larimer County Extension offers classes on topics related to food preservation. To view and register for classes visit www.larimer.colostate. edu/food/food.shtml. With most methods of food preservation, the recommended shelf life is approximately one year, as foods begin to lose their color and nutritional quality after that time. “Preserving foods by freezing, dehydrating and canning makes them safe to keep in the freezer or on a pantry shelf,” says McSherry. “By understanding these methods we can enjoy produce throughout the year.”

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greeley district 6 news Community Celebration a huge success!

Thank you to everyone who volunteered or contributed in any way to this year’s School Kickoff Community Celebration, held Saturday, August 10 at Island Grove Regional Park. More than 3,600 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to District 6 students at the event. Here are some highlights of the School Kickoff:

• 72 community partners and sponsors had booths at the event • More than 3,000 breakfast burritos were served • 5,000 bottles of water were served • Nine Golden Ticket prizes were claimed (We are still trying to find the last one.) This year the prize was Beat Box headphones.

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• 140 volunteers worked the day of the event; another 70 volunteers helped stuff the backpacks • 1,000 balloons were given out • We raised nearly $74,000 in cash donations. This does not include in-kind donations. • More than 80 sports physicals were provided to students at the event.

A special shout out to the Northridge High School football team that assisted throughout the day and helped with clean up. We so appreciate everyone who volunteers and works to ensure this event is bigger and better every year. Thank you! GREELEY-EVANS SCHOOL DISTRICT 6 BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVES

BALLOT ISSUE FOR BOND The Board of Education voted unanimously to approve ballot language for a $395 million bond issue, to be included on the November 5, 2019 ballot. The bond issue can only be used for new construction, repairs and renovations to existing buildings, equipment and furnishings. The bond issue was developed after completion of a Facility Needs Study, which found nearly $1 billion in facility needs in District 6. The proposal includes repairs and renovations for every District 6 school, including charter schools, enhancement to safety and security at each school, and dollars for instructional spaces and

career and college preparation. Specific items in the bond issue include:

• The replacement of Greeley West High School • The replacement of Madison Elementary School • The construction of a new K-8 school • A significant addition to McAuliffe STEM Academy to address overcrowding • A significant addition to Chappelow Arts Magnet K-8 to address overcrowding and create a performing arts space

District 6 is currently 5,000 students over capacity in existing schools. The district overall has grown by 7,000 students in the past 20 years, and no additional schools have been constructed for 17 years. More than 2,000 students are being educated in more than 140 portable classrooms. And in the next 10 years, District 6 is expected to grow by at least 1,400 students. The November 5 election is a mail-in ballot. Ballots will go out in mid-October.

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poudre school district news PSD welcomes new educators in style

Poudre School District welcomed new educators to the district with a red carpet event before the start of the new school year. Educators were welcomed with cheers and high-fives as they walked into Fossil Ridge High School for their New Educator Orientation. PSD SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAM KEEPS STUDENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; SKILLS SHARP AND CREATES CAMARADERIE On a hot summer day four years ago, Chelsea Parker and Will Young stepped inside the Rocky Mountain High School band room for the first time. Back then, the two were nervous eighth graders, not sure what to expect when they started high school just a few weeks later. But the PSD summer music program at Rocky quickly helped them get acclimated to their new school environment and offered them the chance to meet their 32

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future classmates. “To get to play with new classmates really changed my perspective,” Will, now a rising senior, said. “Playing with your peers who have different perspectives changes you. I looked up to them.” That type of camaraderie is exactly what PSD’s summer music programs are designed to create for the approximately 1,100 students who attend them, Rocky Mountain High School Director of Bands Scott Schlup said. In addition to keeping students’ skills sharp over the summer, the programs help students bond with one another and meet their future teachers. The music programs are offered at multiple schools throughout PSD and include options for beginning, intermediate and advanced students. Professional music educators lead the classes and are often the same teachers students will have in middle or high school. “It’s a way for kids coming into high school to get to know other kids who are in band and meet upperclassman,”

Schlup said. “And, of course, it keeps them playing over the summer.” For students who have been to the programs before, these summer programs can be an opportunity to develop leadership skills and help their peers, Schlup said.

Chelsea said that she has gotten something new out of the program each year. “I was able to focus and grow as a musician,” she said. “Now, I just want to make sure freshman feel comfortable and excited to come here.”

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thompson school district news Welcome to a school year of transformational change

elcome to the 2019-2020 school year! These are exciting times for Thompson School District and I am optimistic that our students will have their most successful, productive and memorable school year yet. The 2019-2020 school year will bring many transformational changes to our district, and I would like to highlight a few of them for you now. On the curriculum front, we will be launching our Ready Gen English/ Language Arts curriculum at the K-5 level, as well as the Big Ideas Middle School Math program in grades 6-8. Our high schools will be exploring and piloting a new math program in grades 9-12 with a launch of this new curriculum in the 2020-2021 school year. Our commitment to a Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum for all of our students requires us to systematize and align our curricula across K-12. With the completion of Phase I construction, our Early Childhood Center at Stansberry opens this fall with five completed classrooms. Our early childhood program is 34

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consistently recognized at the state and national levels for offering outstanding programming and services for our youngest learners. In TSD, we recognize that academic and school success begins in early childhood. With the expansion and

enhancement of our early childhood programming, we will continue to make school readiness a top priority in TSD. Following the conclusion of Phase 2 construction work next summer, our Early Childhood Center at Stansberry will be fully open and operational. We are also very excited to launch full-day kindergarten programming throughout the district. The social/emotional and mental health well-being of our students will continue to be a focus and priority for us as we head into the 2019-2020 school year. We have added and are continuing to add school counselors, paraprofessionals and other personnel to directly support our students on our campuses. In addition to work at the Early Childhood Center, summer bond efforts have focused on roofing projects at a number of our school buildings. Security infrastructure, technology upgrades (including bandwidth expansion) and health/life/safety building improvements are also included

in the expansive construction work that has taken place over the summer. Later this school year, we will break ground on our new PK-8 campus on the eastern side of our district, as well as launch the construction of our Career and Technical Education Center on our Van Buren site. Perhaps the most significant event in TSD is the unveiling of our new Strategic Plan – Strive 2025. Over the coming weeks and months, we will be sharing with our community our focused direction and priorities as a district. Strive 2025 encompasses the areas of student achievement, an inclusive and supportive culture, strong human talent and fiscal responsibility. Together, these areas will ensure that our district is one of continued excellence and distinction. As I hope you can see, we are working hard to ensure that Thompson School District will be a destination district where the student experience is at the center of what we do. As always, we will continue to build upon and seek out community and business partnerships to help support the work we are achieving. These are exciting times for this district and we will continue to build upon our successes while continuing to earn the trust and support of our community. For updates throughout the school year, please consider following me on Twitter @tsdDrMarc. Thank you for your support, Dr. Marc Schaffer Superintendent Thompson School District PLEASE JOIN TSD FOR THE FOLLOWING PARENT EDUCATIONAL NIGHTS! Presented by: Thompson School Districts Schools Professional Grant. September 10th, 5:30pm–7:30pm The Drug Culture Among Today’s Youth • Learn the links between youth, drugs, music, clothing and more • Learn the terms and logos used among youth • Explore trends in drug concealment and paraphernalia September 24th, 5:30pm–7pm SpeakNow! Strategies for Talking With Your Kids About Alcohol and Drugs • Learn strategies for having an open conversation with your kids about alcohol and drugs • Understand Healthy Behaviors vs High Risk Behaviors Hosted at: Saint John, 1730 W. 12th, Loveland Intended for ages 18 and older. Pizza and refreshments will be provided, registration is preferred. Register using the following link: http://bit.ly/Fall2019StJohn Questions contact Jessica Shiveley: Jessica.Shiveley@ thompsonschools.org. RMPARENT

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SEPTEMBER 2019 ONGOING FOURTH THURSDAYS Sensory Friendly Films For individuals with autism or other special needs, enjoy unique films in the OtterBox Digital Dome Theater. Ages 3–8. $4/child ($2/members). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 6–6:30pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org. FIRST FRIDAYS First Friday Art Walk Galleries, museums and shops stay open late for new showcases, interactive displays and artist talks during this self-guided walking tour. Old Town, FC. 6–9pm. www.downtownfortcollins.com. FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2 Games on the Range Combine golf, friends, food and games such as Golf Tic-Tac-Toe, 21, Climb the Ladder, more. Reservations accepted. Mariana Butte Golf Course, 701 Clubhouse Dr., LV. 667-8308. www.cityofloveland.org. SEPTEMBER 10, 14 Get Swamped! Learn about ponds, swamps, turtles and frogs with hands-on crafts and activities. Ages 2–5. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 10:30–11:15am. 686-5603 https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/2992424.

SEPTEMBER 13 THROUGH 14 Evans Heritage Days Festival with tethered hot air balloon rides, fireworks, 5K, children’s activities, food, beer and music. Riverside Park, 4000 Riverside Pkwy., EV. 5pm–9pm Friday 8am–2pm Saturday. www.evanscolorado.gov. SEPTEMBER 21 THROUGH 22 Civil War Weekend Costumed reenactors show how they would have lived during the Civil War. Includes battle reenactment with guns, cannon. All ages. $25/family of six or $8/ adult, $6/senior, $5/youth. Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A St., GR. 10am–4pm Saturday, Noon–4pm Sunday. 350-9220, www.greeleymuseums.com. Higher Ground Fair Experience the best of Rocky Mountain tradition and innovation. All ages. $10/ adult; $8/senior; Free/child 12 and under. Albany County Fairgrounds, 3510 S. 3rd St., Laramie, WY. 307-223-4399 www.highergroundfair.org.

SEPTEMBER 21, 28 Discovery Lab: Dino Dig Learn about the adaptations of dinosaurs, then excavate and interpret fossils outside. Ages 6+ with adult. Registration recommended. $5/family of 6 ($4/member family). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 11am and 1:30pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org. THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22 Reclaiming Heritage Exhibit Features stories from Native American, Karenni and African American communities in the U.S. and Denotified Tribes and Adavasi groups in India. Greeley History Museums, 714 8th St., GR. 350-9220, www.greeleymuseums.com. TUESDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 24 Fort Collins Food Truck Rally Food trucks and free live music. City Park, FC. 5:30pm–dusk. www.focofoodtruckrally.com. SEPTEMBER 27 THROUGH 28 Greeley OktoBREWfest Beer, brats, games, concert, children’s activities, more. Lincoln Park, 8th Street and 9th Avenue, GR. 5–10pm Friday 11am–9pm Saturday. www.greeleydowntown.com.

Are You in the Parenting Puzzle? To help your child understand unfamiliar words, try these strategies: • Model the correct pronunciation of sounds and words for your child, rather than imitating their inaccurate articulation. • Play “I spy” while looking at books, going for a walk, or driving to find words with the practice sound. • Encourage your child to use accurate sounds by describing their production rather than using words like “good” or “bad.” Instead use words like “slushy” vs. “clear” or “easy” vs. “hard.”

For more resources and details on Word Attack Strategies go to csrckids.org

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970-419-0486 FORT COLLINS

1330 Oakridge Drive, #10 LOVELAND

1511 E. 11th Street, #290

Buy one cupcake Get one FREE!

SW corner of Horsetooth & College, west of Safeway

970-225-1040

buttercreamcupcakery.com

172 North College Avenue

970-482-2505

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Grandparents Day Tea Sip tea and enjoy sweet treats, crafts and activities. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave. GR. Noon. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us. Paws to Read for Everyone Practice reading with therapy dogs. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 3pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Noches En Familia Celebrate Latinx’s cultural roots through stories, music, food, puppets, crafts and games. All ages. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. FC. 5pm. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org.

SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS & HOLIDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER Fort Collins Trolley Rides Three-mile round trip ride on historic Birney Car 21 along Mountain Avenue. $2/adult, $1/senior or child, free under 3. City Park near tennis courts 1500 W. Oak St., FC. Noon–5pm. www.fortcollinstrolley.org. THROUGH JULY 14, 2020 Unmentionable: The Indiscreet Stories of Artifacts Exhibit explores some of the unusual, icky, disturbing, awful, uncomfortable and surprising artifacts from the museum’s collection. Greeley History Museum 714 8th St., GR. 350-9220 www.greeleymuseums.com.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Forever Family Ride Bike community celebration to benefit Realities For Children Charities who support children abused, neglected or atrisk in Larimer County. $40, $60, $100. Thunder Mountain Harley-Davidson 4250 Byrd Drive, LV. 8am. www.realitiesforchildren.com.

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Summer Sundays Concert: A Brother’s Fountain Last in the series featuring A Brother’s Fountain. Foothills Mall, east lawn, FC. 6–8pm. www.shopfoothills.com. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Wonders of Evening Guided observations along with drawing, painting or writing deepen your connection to nature. Ages 9+ (under 16 years must be accompanied by adult). Nix Farm Natural Area, 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., FC. 6–8pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 In the Dome: Over in the Forest Follow the tracks of ten woodland animals then visit the Learning Lab for a craft. Ages 3–5. $5/child ($4/members). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct.., FC. 10:15–11am. 221-6738 www.fcmod.org. Teen Advisory Group (TAG) Help plan programs and special events, collaborate with others and make your opinion count. Earn volunteer hours. Ages 12–18. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6–7pm. 686-5603 https://clearviewlibrary.org/ event/2992364.

Music of Lorna’s Swingset Enjoy jazz from the ‘30s and ‘40s on the patio from 5–7 pm and free museum admission from 6-9 pm. All ages. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 221-4600 www.globalvillagemuseum.org. Larry the Cable Guy: Remain Seated Well-known for his blue-collar comedic style and signature catchphrase: Gitr-done. Mature content/language. $50/63/75. The Lincoln Center 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 7:30pm. 221-6730 www.lctix.com. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Superhero Run and Family Carnival Family friendly fun run includes a 5K, 1 Mile, free kids run and carnival to benefit LifeStories Child and Family Advocacy. All ages. $25/adult, $15/youth (ages 6 and under run free). St. Michaels Town Square, 3050 67th Ave., GR. 5K starts 8:30am. www.lifestoriesweld.org/superhero-run. Rist Canyon Mountain Festival Features children’s activities, huge book sale, live entertainment, bake/plant sales, silent auction, local artisans, ice cream, more. Supports volunteer fire department. Meadow across from Station 1 of the Rist Canyon Volunteer Fire Department, 11835 Rist Canyon Rd. 10am–4pm. 493-1236 www.rcvfd.org.

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Crafty Takes: Crayons! Crafts, stories and songs. Ages 3–6. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 10:30–11:30pm. 686-5603 https://clearviewlibrary.org/ event/2992408. Precious Potential Pets Weld Humane Society introduces pets that could potentially be yours and tells about fostering/adopting. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 11am. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us. World Language Event in Spanish Poudre River Public Library District hosts engaging activities and storytelling. All ages. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 11am–Noon. 221-4600 www.globalvillagemuseum.org. Horror in a Flash Workshop on writing short horror fiction. Registration required. Grades 4-12. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2pm. 221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

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Houska Garage Band Event Food, drinks and music of The Blues Dogs. Proceeds benefit Partners Mentoring Youth. All ages. $45/person ages 13+. Houska Automotive Heavy Duty, 1005 Riverside Ave., FC. 6–9pm. www.houskaautomotive.com. A Night For Hope Support Hope Lives James Bond style in costume with Bond Martinis, casino, dancing and more. Ages 21+. $150. Embassy Suites, 4705 Clydesdale Pkwy. LV. 6pm. www.hopelives.org/a-night-for-hope. Skygazing Family-friendly skygazing with Northern Colorado Astronomical Society. Telescopes provided. All ages. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, 3340 Carpenter Rd., FC. 8–10pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Honey Festival Bee keeping demos, honey and beeswax products, bee-friendly gardens by CSU master gardeners, cooking with honey demos. City of Loveland Farmer’s Market at Fairgrounds Park, 700 S. Railroad Ave., LV. 9am–1:30pm. www.cityofloveland.org. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Voyage Vessels! Use old maps and tour guides to decoupage a box unique to you. Ages 9–12. WindsorSeverance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 3:30–4:30pm. 686-5603 https://clearviewlibrary.org/ event/2992420. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Tiny Trekkers Explore nature, facts and activities. Ages 2–5 with caregiver. Registration required. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, 1725 Hidden Valley Dr. LV. 10–10:45am. 619-4489 https://offero.larimer.org/Calendar.

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Farmers

MARKETS Berthoud Local Farmers Market Fickel Park in downtown Berthoud Saturdays, 9am-1pm, June 22-Sept. 28 www.berthoudlocal.org/farmers-market/ Farmers Market at Fairgrounds Park 700 S. Railroad Ave., Loveland Sundays, 9am-1:30pm, June 23-Sept. 29 www.cityofloveland.org/farmersmarket Fort Collins Farmers Market 1001 E. Harmony Rd. in front of Ace Hardware (rain or shine) Sundays, 10am-2pm, May-mid-Nov. Wednesdays, 10am-2pm, June-Sept. www.fortcollinsfm.com Drake Road Farmers Market 802 W. Drake Rd., Fort Collins Saturdays, 10am-1pm, April 20-Sept. (weather permitting) www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com Erie Farmers Market Briggs Street between Wells and Moffatt, Erie Thursdays, 5-8pm, May 18-Sept. 12 www.realfarmersmarketco.com Estes Valley Farmers Market Bond Park on E. Elkhorn Ave. Thursdays, 8am-1pm, June-Sept. www.facebook.com/ EstesValleyFarmersMarket

Greeley Farmers’ Market The Depot, 902 7th Ave. Saturdays, 8am-Noon, May 18-Oct. 26 Zoe’s, 715 10th St. 1st and 3rd Saturdays, 9am-Noon, Nov.-April www.greeleygov.com/fm Johnstown Milliken Farmers Market Charlotte St. and Parish Ave., Johnstown Fridays, 4-8pm, June-Oct. www.johnstownmillikenchamber.com Larimer County Farmers Market 200 S. Oak St., Fort Collins Saturdays, 9am-1pm, May 19-Oct. 26 www.larimercountyfarmersmarket.org Timnath Sunday Market 138 Main St., Timnath First Sundays, 10am-2pm, May-Oct. www.coloradofeedandgrain.com/ sundaymarket Windsor Farmers Market Boardwalk Park, 110 5th St., Windsor Saturdays, 9am-1pm, June 22-Sept. 28 https://windsorgov.com/803/Farmers-Market

Take a Floral Adventure with Teresa Sabankaya Teresa Sabankaya will discuss her new book, The Posy Book, and show how to make posy arrangements. All ages. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Intro to Soldering for Teens Learn a new skill and walk away with a completed SparkFun Basic Flashlight kit that you soldered. Ages 12–18. WindsorSeverance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 4–5:30pm. 686-5603 https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/2992556.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Kids Crafterschool Learn to make origami cranes and more. Supplies provided. Registration required. Grades 3–5. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 3:30pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

Coding for Kids Learn the basics of drag and drop coding and explore computer programming. No prior programming experience is needed. Registration required. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30pm. 221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

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DimeStories at the Forge Writers of all skill levels read their 3-minute prose (not poetry) stories to their peers. Ages 18+. The Forge Publick House, 255 Old Firehouse Alley, FC. 6:30pm sign-ups, 7pm readings. 484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Little STEAMers: A is for Apple Explore this fruit with your five senses, learn how apples grow, create apple artwork Ages 3–5 with caregiver. $5/child ($4/members), caregivers free. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10:15–11am and 2:15–3pm. 221-6738 www.fcmod.org. Clearview Homeschooler’s Academy A puzzle for every skill level: Make shapes with Tangrams, solve Rubik’s cubes or code a Sphero to complete an obstacle course. Ages 5–12. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 1–2pm. 686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/ event/2992619. Boz Scaggs: Out of the Blues Tour 2019 Throughout his five-decade career, Boz Scaggs continues to offer a mix of rock, rhythm and blues and ballads. Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7pm. 356-5000 www.ucstars.com. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Beyond the Classroom: Energy Learn about energy and how it works, is used and its efficiency. Registration required. Grades 3–5. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Hops for Hunger Craft beer festival with variety of local breweries, grilled food and live music. Ages 21+. $45; $5/designated driver. Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., WS. 5–9pm. www.weldfoodbank.org/hops. Black & White Event Celebrate in black and white party clothes with food, drink and music from the BluesDoGS while supporting ChildSafe. $100/person. Hilton Fort Collins 425 W. Prospect Rd., FC. 6pm. www.childsafecolorado.org.

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Hops & Hot Rods Benefit Car Show Enjoy incredible cars, live music and brews to support United Way of Larimer County. $20-25/registered car. Free to attend. Anheuser-Busch Biergarten, 2351 Busch Dr. FC. 8am-3pm. www.uwaylc.org/events. Tunji and the Giant: Children’s Concerts An African folktale for clarinet, violin, viola, cello and narrator, performed by the Front Range Chamber Players. All ages. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC at 9:30am AND Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC at 11:30. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org. Annual Potato Day Festival Family festival featuring musical entertainment, living history demos, historical house tours, book sale, children’s games and activities, and baked potatoes. All ages. $7/person ages 3+. Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A St. GR. 10am–4pm. 350-9220 www.GreeleyMuseums.com. Museum Takeover: Dinosaurs Dive deep into dinosaurs with interactive activities throughout the gallery. Ages 5+. Cost included with admission. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am–1pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

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Read and Seed Learn about caterpillars and butterflies with stories and a craft. Ages Pre-K–10. Old Town Farmers’ Market, 200 W. Oak St., FC. 10–10:45am. 416-2486 www.fcgov.com/gardens. Ready, Set, Create! Span-tastic Bridges Design and build bridges from everyday household items. Caregivers are encouraged to participate. Registration required. Grades 2–5. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. Campfire at the Cabin: Mosquitos and Bats Hike an easy unpaved trail to the cabin (two miles roundtrip) for campfire stories and s’mores. Dress warmly and bring water and flashlight. All ages. Coyote Ridge Natural Area, 7609 S CR 19 (Taft Hill Rd.), FC. 7–8:30pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Game Day at Your Library Play a board or card game from their collection (Settlers of Catan, Pandemic, Munchkin Fu!, more) or bring a favorite from home. All ages/abilities. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Noon–5pm. 221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Discovery Zone Discover crafts and experience science with a new activity each month. Ages 5+ with caregiver. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. FC. 3:30–5pm. 221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org. Outmigration and Political Development in the Northern Triangle Explore the issues surrounding migrants from El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala with Stephen Mumme, professor of political science at CSU. $5/ person. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 5–7pm. 221-4600 www.globalvillagemuseum.org. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Yes, You Can Adopt Seminar Receive information on domestic, international, embryo adoption and foster care/adoption. Registration required. Nightlight Christian Adoptions, 150 E. 29th St., Ste. 255, LV. 4pm. 663-6799 www.nightlight.org. Girl Power: Learn to Code No prior coding experience needed. Girls, ages 8–15. Registration required. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6:30pm. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org.

Myths and Facts About Dyslexia Myth #1: Reading and writing letters backwards is the main sign of dyslexia Fact: Some children with dyslexia write letters backwards and some do not Letter reversal is not necessarily a sign that your child has dyslexia. In fact, young children commonly reverse letters. It is not unusual to see them confuse b and d or write p instead of q. If your child is still doing so by the end of first grade, however, it may signal the need for an evaluation. “The Children’s Speech and Reading Center has been an invaluable component of my son’s dyslexia journey. Prior to connecting with CSRC, school was a devastating experience for our entire family, as each day our son fell farther behind and began to believe the worst of himself. Receiving proper reading instruction from his amazingly qualified and supportive CSRC reading specialist has changed our lives. Literacy has given him the possibility to achieve any dream he can imagine.”

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 12th – The Power of Self Advocacy (YES Dyslexia Student Ambassadors)

The CSRC is the only 501(c)(3) non-profit in Northern Colorado that focuses on speechlanguage and reading. CSRC has Orton Gillingham trained reading specialists with years of experience and grants to help families offset the cost of therapy. Call or visit the CSRC website (www.csrckids. org) for more information on programs, scholarships and events.

970-419-0486 • csrckids.org •

FORT COLLINS:

Myth #2: Dyslexia does not show up until elementary school.

Fact: Signs of dyslexia can show up in preschool, or even earlier. That is because dyslexia can affect language skills that are essential skills for reading. Some signs that a preschooler may be at risk for dyslexia include difficulty rhyming, being a “late talker,” and mispronouncing words.

Myth #3: Kids with dyslexia just need to try harder to read. Fact: Research shows that the brain functions differently in kids with dyslexia. It also shows that reading can actually change the brain over time. It is the type of instruction that makes a difference, not how hard kids try. With good instruction and practice, children with dyslexia can make lasting gains in reading and change the brain. CSRC uses an Orton Gillingham (OG) approach which focuses on a multisensory approach. This type of instruction uses sight, sound and touch as pathways to help children with dyslexia learn to read. Myth #4: Dyslexia goes away once kids learn to read.

Fact: Intervention makes a big difference in helping kids with dyslexia learn to read. But being able to read does not mean they are “cured.” Dyslexia is a lifelong learning need that can affect more than just basic reading skills. On top of making it hard to decode, dyslexia can make it difficult to read fluently. It can impact how well kids comprehend what they have read. Children with dyslexia may also continue to struggle with spelling and writing even once they’ve learned to read.

Myth #5: Dyslexia is rare. Fact: 1 in 5 children struggle with dyslexia

1330 Oakridge Drive, #10 •

LOVELAND:

1511 E. 11th Street, # 290 RMPARENT

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Adult and Child Canvas & Cocoa Paint a masterpiece together and enjoying some cocoa and treats. Only one registration required for each child/adult team. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 10:30am and 1pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us. Fortoberfest Family friendly Oktoberfest celebration and outdoor music festival with beer, wine and German cuisine. Old Town Square, FC. 1–10pm. www.downtownfortcollins. com/event/fortoberfest. Book Signing with Roger Kahn Author Roger Kahn will sign copies of his book, How Crested Butte Became a Tourist Town. All ages. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 1–2pm. 484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 In the Dome: Tall, Tall, Tree Peek at animals that make their home in a tall, tall redwood tree, then visit the Learning Lab for a craft. Ages 3–5. $5/ child ($4/members). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10:15–11am. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org. Teen Craft-a-thon Learn new crafting techniques. Ages 12–18. Windsor-Severance Library 720 3rd St., WS. 6–7:30pm. 686-5603 https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/2992753. HOA Workshop: Enforcement and Police Matters Free workshops for Homeowners Association (HOA) board members. Family Fun Plex, 1501 65th Av, GR. 6–8pm. 336-4167 www.greeleycalendar.com. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 School Day Out: Dino Discovery Dig, discover and develop the skill of telling stories through fossils. Ages 6–11. $60/child ($48/members). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 9am–4pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org. School’s Out Program: Truckin’ Trucks All about trucks for grades K–4 and their families. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. FC. 10am. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org.

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Lego Building: Toppling Towers Who can build the tallest tower and how long will it stand? Grades K–5 (under age 8 with caregiver). Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1pm. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org. Hidden Spaces Series: Alley Rally Art, music, refreshments and family games amongst the bright artwork, architectural enhancements and garden patios of Old Town’s improved alleys. Old Firehouse Alley, FC. Time TBD. www.downtownfortcollins.com. A Vintage Affair Support Pathways with 200+ wine and beer varieties, gourmet appetizers, silent auction, games, more. Ages 21+. $80 at Wilbur’s Total Beverage/online. Lory Student Center Grand Ballroom, Colorado State University, FC. 6:30–9pm. www.pathways-care.org/ava. Astronomy & Skygazing: Meteor Showers Brief family friendly astronomy program and skygazing with telescopes provided. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, 10184 W. CR 32C, LV. 7–9pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register.

Global Hot Spots Examine current international events and discuss the world’s most worrisome regions with the well-traveled John Roberts, Museum co-founder and board member. $5/person. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 2–4pm. 221-4600 www.globalvillagemuseum.org. Discovery Zone Discover crafts and experience science with a new activity each month. Ages 5+ with caregiver. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. FC. 3:30–5pm. 221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org. Fort Collins/Loveland Water Lantern Festival Brings people together with food, music and to light the water in peaceful, memorable way. All ages. $35 until Sept. 20, $40/day of. Boyd Lake State Park, 3720 N. CR 11C, LV. 4–9:30pm. www.waterlanternfestival.com/fortcollins.php. Fall Harvest Brewfest Access to 100+ beers from 35+ breweries/ micro-distilleries plus local food trucks, live music, DJs and singer/song-writers. Supports Animal House Shelter. Ages 21+. Prices vary. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 5–8pm (VIPs 4–5pm). 221-6730, www.lctix.com.

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Campfire at Nix: Mosquitos and Bats Cozy evening by the campfire with stories and s’mores. Dress warmly. All ages. Nix Farm Natural Area, 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., FC. 6:30–8pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 The Mother Earth Academy Back to School Family Fundraiser Support this school while enjoying a bounce house, face painting, games, food, more. All ages. The Mother Earth Academy, 1425 W 29th St., LV. Noon– 3pm. 203-4629 www.themotherearthacademy.com. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Tiny Trekkers Explore nature, facts and activities. Ages 2–5 with caregiver. Registration required. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, 1725 Hidden Valley Dr. LV. 10–10:45am. 619-4489, https://offero.larimer.org/Calendar. Electrifying Energy Use fun instruments like a Lux meter, a flicker checker and power monitors to find out how energy works and measure its efficiency. Ages 9–12. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 3:30–4:40pm. 686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/ event/2992872. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Service Animals at Work Guide Dogs for the Blind will demonstrate the work they put in to make life a little easier for the blind. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 3:30pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us. Energy Find out how energy works and use instruments to measure energy in our world. Registration required. Grades 3–6. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Kids Crafterschool Learn to make rubberband bracelets. Supplies provided. Registration required. Grades 3–5 Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 3:30pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Little STEAMers: All About Amphibians Learn about amphibians like salamanders and frogs through hands-on crafts and meet the museum’s resident amphibians up close. Ages 3–5 with caregiver. $5/child ($4/members), caregivers free. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10:15–11am and 2:15–3pm. 221-6738 www.fcmod.org. Geocaching 101 Treasure hunters embark on a local geocaching adventure. Ages 2–6. Lakeview Park, 512 Mallard Dr., Severance. 10:30– 11am. 686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary. org/event/2938420. History Brown Bag Series: Teetotalers, Stuffed Shirts & Canoe Paddlers Hear stories of Union Colony letter writers. Presented by Greeley Historic Preservation Commission. Greeley History Museum Community Room, 714 8th St. GR. Noon–1pm. 350-9222 www.greeleygov.com. Learn to Play the Ukulele Quickly learn to play the ukulele. Bring your own or borrow one of ours. Registration required. Grades 6–12. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 6pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Family BINGO Night Play BINGO and win prizes. All ages. Skyview Elementary School, 1000 Stone Mountain Dr., WS. 6:30–7:30pm. 686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/ event/2936490. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Northern Colorado MTB Festival Take-a-kid MTBing day, demo bikes, women’s skills clinic, poker ride, beer/ wine, food trucks, vendor expo, live music, more. Lory State Park, 708 Lodgepole Dr., Bellvue. 9am–6pm. www.facebook.com/ events/2412450582410535. Taste in Timnath Fall Festival & 5K Enjoy wagon rides, authentic German cuisine and beverages and children’s activities including a petting zoo, pumpkin decorating, inflatables, more. Old Town Timnath, 4100 Main St., Timnath. 10am–3pm. www.timnath.org.

Anime Your Way with Carolos Nieto III Learn to create and modify an anime character from scratch, no matter your drawing level. All materials provided. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. Grades 6–12 at 11am, Grades K–5 at 1:30pm. 888-8617323, www.MyLibrary.us. Hearts & Horses Lucky Hearts Casino Night Fundraiser supporting therapeutic riding programs for special needs, veterans, youth-at-risk and seniors. All ages. $125/ person. Embassy Suites, 4705 Clydesdale Pkwy., LV. 5:30pm–Midnight. 663-4200, www.heartsandhorses.org/ lucky-hearts-gala. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Fort Collins Open Streets Safely ride, walk, run, scoot, roll and play in the street. Enjoy live music, art, culture, free activities and food trucks. Vendors and volunteers needed. Seneca St. from W. Horsetooth Road to W. Harmony Road, FC. 10am–3pm. www.fcgov.com/openstreets. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 School’s Out, Library’s In: Rocketry Design and build your own straw and stomp rockets. Registration required. Grades K–5. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

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time out Baby Talk

24/7: life with an infant KATIE HARRIS

ou know you’re the mom of an infant when: You’ve been eating from paper and plastic products for so long to avoid dishes that you can’t actually remember what kitchen cabinet holds what. Your countertop is decorated with dozens of drying breast pump parts and accessories. Your recent Google history includes “Why is my baby’s poop green?” “Which is the best snot sucker on the market?” and “Is it normal for babies to cry ALL THE TIME?” After being peed on, you seriously weigh wasting precious time and adding to the already massive laundry pile by changing against drying off in the sun and getting on with your day. (“Sign me up for option B!”) You couldn’t name a single current Billboard hit but you can belt out the words to every kids song from the last 100 years. You’ve considered bubble wrapping every surface in your home as a cheap and easy alternative to baby proofing. When grocery shopping with baby in the front carrier, you say a silent prayer as you lean in to bag apples that he doesn’t spit up on the produce. You’ve jumped out of the shower with a head full of shampoo at least once in the past week to soothe a screaming baby. You opt to twiddle your thumbs in silence in the car for two hours while baby sleeps in his car seat rather than risk waking him by moving him inside. More than 50 percent of your texts are about baby bodily functions. You don’t realize until you’re halfway home that the rattling sound coming from the backseat is the toy you plucked from the shelf at your local box store to distract your fussing baby, and unknowingly smuggled out of the store 50

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in the depths of his car seat. You agonize over the decision to take your now screaming baby all the way back to the store or fix your screwed up karma with a good deed later. You don’t bat an eye when a little poop gets on your hand while checking your baby’s diaper. You do the “mommy sway” every time you stand in place, even when not holding baby. You scarf every meal down as if it’s your last, even when not holding baby. You’ve reheated your coffee, then left it sitting undrunk and forgotten in the microwave three times so far this morning, and it’s only 6am. You get the chills every time you hear a baby cry, even if it’s not your baby. You have a pile of clothes labeled “Stuff I’ll fit into again someday” that you will never fit into again someday. When dressing for a meeting with your boss, you opt for the dress with only three spit up stains—fancy you! Birds swoop down each time you step outside to peck at the bits of dried teething cracker stuck in your hair.

You finally corral a babysitter for a romantic night out and then proceed to spend your entire evening checking your phone for texts about baby. You lie awake, barely breathing, with pins and needles shooting through your arm for hours after your baby falls asleep nursing rather than risk waking him by moving him to his crib. You’ve mastered the flying leap over the baby gate because who has time for latches these days? You occasionally forget to switch out of your baby talk voice in public and wonder why strangers are giving you a wide berth. When visiting, your guests are given the option of sitting on the one remaining adult sized chair in the room, or the child sized chair, bouncy seat, baby swing, exercise ball or rocking horse which have replaced the couch. You’ve stopped attempting to get on top of the dirty diaper smell drifting out from the nursery and now welcome guests with pride to your humble abode featuring the fresh scent of Eau de la Poo.

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