RM Parent Magazine October 2018

OCTOBER 2018 • RMPARENT.COM

Funtastic FALL FESTIVALS THE REGION’S

BEST FAMILY CALENDAR!

ION SPECIAL SECT

FUN & FIT ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDERS

TAKE A HIKE!

NoCo offers endless trails

BACK-TO-SCHOOL BUGS

PRESERVING THE HARVEST

Entitled

Prepping kids for the real world RMPARENT

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OCTOBER 2018

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

Distracted and happy The secret is keeping your mind where the rest of you is

AS WE GROW . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Back-at-school bugs—cold and flu season starts now

Special Sections FIT & FUN

Explore the possibilities for this fall and see what programs these providers have for your families.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Funtastic fall festivals—celebrate the season at a corn maze, pumpkin patch, wagon ride and more

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12 The art of wandering—how to get lost to find yourself

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . 14 Mental health matters—NoCo supports healthy minds, local businesses, active transportation

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

Preserving your garden goodness—freeze, can, dehydrate and refrigerate to save that food for later

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 0 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 4 Elementary relationships—do they really need to be so complex?

School District News GR-E 6 School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 District 6 performance ratings hit an historic high, District 6 counselor named Counselor of the Year

Poudre School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Features 18 PAMPERED AND ENTITLED

In an effort to protect their kids, some well-meaning parents try to make their off-springs’ world as safe and pain-free as possible, one which revolves around making their children happy and comfortable at all costs. But if children grow up in a warm-andfuzzy bubble that’s all about them, they’re in for a rude awakening once they have to operate in the real world.

20 WHEN THE WORLD FEELS PRICKLY

Do you have a toddler who fights getting dressed? Is it impossible to take your child out without a melt down? Occasionally responding with a temper tantrum is not unusual for a toddler, but if it happens often or always in certain situations it might be time to have your child checked for a sensory disorder or another condition.

Astronaut speaks with students from space, Laurel students explore plant science

Thompson School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 New safety and security manager hired, explore Thompson program launches, students receive bicycles and helmets

ABOUT THE COVER: Schafer, loves reading, paddle boarding, gardening and playing with dogs. Photo shot on location at Bartels Farm www.thebartelsfarm.com by Cheri Schonfeld,

courtesy of Sky's Open Design.

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perspective Distracted and happy

The secret is keeping your mind where the rest of you is

F

all is the best season—crisp air, colorful leaves, flocks of birds passing through.

I just feel like getting outdoors on trails and putting down some miles. But logging distance is, apparently, not what everyone thinks about when they’re in the woods.

My son, Andy, 29, and I were out at Horsetooth Reservoir walking with our neighbor and his 6-year-old daughter. The dad was a little bit ahead of us with another neighbor, and Andy and I were hanging back with the girl. She was in absolutely no hurry. She’d pick up a rock and turn it over in her fingers and then wander over to a bush and pluck a leaf or a seed pod. When she brought a seed back for us to examine, I told Andy that he was the same way when we went for a hike and that’s the reason we never got anywhere.

“You’re welcome,” he replied.

And you know he was right! Exploring and discovering aren’t a matter of putting steps on the ol’ Fitbit. Being outdoors, maybe life in general, is about slowing down and showing up. So many times when I’m out on a trail, I catch myself thinking about what I need to do when I get back or having a mock conversation in my head or replaying that conversation from last night.

When I finally come back to that present moment, I laugh at myself. I say to myself: Self, jeez (or something similar) what are you thinking? Why aren’t you letting your mind be out here with the rest of you, where it’s really nice and pretty. Feel the breeze on your cheeks and that sun, too. Hear those birds and see those ripples on the lake. Please mind, stay with your senses and let go of all that city stuff, just for the little bit that you’re out here.

And that’s also the case with having to get “somewhere” when you’re hiking. It becomes all about the goal and the trip in between gets lost. You miss the moment—the seed pods, the grasshopper, the clouds.

One of my favorite Billy Collins’ poems captures the idea. It goes like this: My Hero Just as the hare is zipping across the finish line, The tortoise has stopped once again By the roadside, This time to stick out his neck And nibble a bit of sweet grass, Unlike the previous time When he was distracted By a bee humming in the heart of a wildflower Next time I’m in woods I’m going to make a point to be distracted, just as our neighbor was when she plucked that funny spiral seed from the bush.

Happy trails, Scott

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October 2018 • Volume 23, Issue 5 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Kim Sharpe kim.rmpublishing@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Pettit COVER PHOTO Cheri Schonfeld, Courtesy of Sky’s Open Design - skysopendesign.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Katie Harris Lynn U. Nichols, Kim Sharpe

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. ©2018 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

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To Advertise, contact: Greg at 970-689- 6832

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MARCH 2017 • RMPARENT.COM

SPRING 2017

SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO • FIFTYBETTER.COM

TEE OFF AT A LOCAL DISC GOLF COURSE

ROAD TRIPPING Road tripping —with—

with toddlers

toddl ers

PREPARING YOUR GARDEN

HEALTHY BODY HABITS for kids

Mindfulness and your health

Sample a local craft

Destinations and

wayside breaks

PLUS

THE 2017

of DIRT

THE UGLY SIDE:

CHILD ABUSE IN NOCO

FIND IT IN THE

DIRECTORY

PIT STOPS

Church

WHAT food labels CAN TELL YOU

[BIG BIKE]

Finding your passions

beer

FUN, FUN, FUN

Front Range staycation

THE REGION’S

RiDE 2017 GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE & EVENTS

Pots and plots—

BIKE

CALENDAR

Ditch the pavement for dusty dirt trails, fire roads, meandering two tracks, and crunchy gravel roads

BEST

FAMILY CALENDAR!

INSIDE: LIFESTYLE, ACTIVE [AND HEALTH DIRECTORIES] RMPARENT

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 1

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as we grow

Back-at-school bugs Cold and flu season starts now

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

I

f you have school-aged kids you might already know that the start of the school year also means the start of cold and flu season. That’s because on average elementary-aged kids experience eight to 12 bouts of colds or flu each school year, according to the Centers for Disease Control. That’s almost one a month.

You are likely amazing at teaching your young children to wash their hands regularly and coughing in their sleeves—which is great—but they still might get sick. That’s because the immune systems of young kids are often not as strong as older kids, plus they are always touching their face, hands, other kids and everything around them. It’s no wonder they get sick a lot.

Still, teaching kids to wash their hands before eating and after bathroom use will help. If you haven’t already, teach them to wash their hands as long as it takes them to sing the ABCs, even getting soap up to their elbows. Also, pack a water bottle so they are not using the drinking fountain.

WHERE GERMS LIVE AT SCHOOL According to the National Sanitation Foundation, the place with the most germs at school is the water fountain spigot followed by cafeteria trays, sink faucet handles, keyboards and finally toilet seats. You don’t want to create a little germaphobe, but you could attach a hand sanitizer to their backpack for times when they can’t wash.

BE EXTRA CAUTIOUS WHEN YOU ARE OUT AND ABOUT Teach kids to push doors open above the handle, when possible, and avoid sharing drinks and snacks at soccer practice.

A study by Reusethisbag.com, which swabbed over 100 grocery stores in 10 states found that grocery stores are one of the worst places for harmful bacteria. In 8

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fact, they report that 75 percent of grocery carts tested positive for harmful bacteria.

The produce sections were the worst for germs, making it extra important to wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.

WHAT KIDS ARE CATCHING According to a statistical brief published by the National Institutes of Health, upper respiratory infections are the number one reason parents seek sameday urgent care for their children for illnesses. Doctor’s offices also see quite a bit of strep throat during the school year.

With strep, a sore throat comes on quickly, along with pain when swallowing, red and swollen tonsils and tiny red spots in the back of the throat. Kids can experience fever, headache, rash, nausea and body aches, according to the Mayo Clinic.

It’s good to know that if one person has strep in the household, you don’t all have to automatically get checked—only when symptoms occur. Strep throat is a bacterial infection that is treated with antibiotics.

TREATING UPPER RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS (URIS) Since antibiotics only work on bacterial infections, not viruses, often the treatment

for URIs is rest, fluids and some overthe-counter medicines to treat symptoms.

Worsening symptoms can indicate a secondary infection—bronchitis, a sinus infection, ear infection or pneumonia.

Secondary infections often develop 7 to 10 days after the start of the URI. Any time you have a virus, you are more susceptible to a bacterial infection. Most commonly in children this means an ear infection or pneumonia. Watch your child closely for complaints of tiredness, headaches and facial pain, which can mean a sinus infection. Signs of pneumonia include fast breathing, wheezing, fever, cough, stuffy nose and chills. If a fever or cough worsens, it’s time to seek care.

One of the best defenses against illness is good eating and sleeping habits.

Elementary-aged kids need 9 to 11 hours of sleep. They also need plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains, along with daily exercise. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends kids get an hour of physical activity a day for good health. Exercise has the extra benefit of boosting the immune system, which helps kids better fight off illnesses. Avoid germy places and get outside for some active, family fun!

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family activities

Funtastic fall festivals

Celebrate with a corn maze, pumpkin patch, wagon ride and more K ATIE HARRIS

G

et in the spirit of the season with a trip to a fall festival this month. There are dozens of corn mazes to get lost in and pumpkin patches full of hopeful jacko-lanterns around northern Colorado.

Read on for a few of the area’s biggest fall family events!

Anderson Farms, located at 6728 County Road 3 1/4 in Erie, is constantly looking for ways to up their game and bring even more excitement to northern Colorado families. This year the farm has added a 4000-sq. ft. inflatable jumping pad to the line-up, along with a six-person combine slide for family racing. The ever-popular wagon ride to the pumpkin patch, pumpkin cannon, mine cars and barrel train are back for 2018, along with an escape room, virtual reality, paintball and gem mining for an additional cost. The theme for the corn maze, the longest in the state according to the farm’s website, is heroes.

The 25-acre maze is divided into three sections for all-day entertainment.

Anderson Farms is open M-W from 10am-6pm, Thursday from 10am10pm*, Friday from 10am-11pm, Saturday from 9am-11pm, and Sunday from 9am-10pm through the end of October (*Open 10am-6pm on Thursday, Oct. 4th). Regular admission is $12 M-Th and $18 F-Su. To learn more visit www. andersonfarms.com.

Harvest Farm’s 16th annual fall festival is in full swing, running weekends through Oct. 28th. The festival is open from 10am-8pm on Fridays and Saturdays and from noon-6pm on Sundays. Attractions include a corn maze, wagon ride farm tours, pig races, a petting zoo, corn cannons, and a dozen more activities geared just for the youngest visitors, including a mini maze and corn wagon play area.

Harvest Farm, located at 4240 E. 10

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County Road 66 in Wellington, is a 100-acre farm and rehabilitation center for men, which works hand in hand with Fort Collins Rescue Mission to break the cycles of homelessness and addiction. Program participants reside and work on the farm for up to 27 months, where they’re given the opportunity to pursue academic and vocational studies. Admission to the farm is $15 for ages 13 and up and $13 for ages 4-12, with kids 3 and under free. Proceeds from the fall festival go to provide help to current and future residents of the farm. For more information visit www.harvestfarm.net/fall-festival.

The 2018 Integrated Pediatric Therapy Fall Festival is on October 19, from 2-6pm. Grab your friends and join in for a special fall festival at Tigges Farm in West Greeley/East Windsor.

This is a free event to help build community among special-needs families.

The farm will have golf cart transportation for kids unable to walk through the pumpkin patch. Accessible restrooms available. All ages are welcome and free small pumpkins are available for children birth to 21.

Tigges Farm is in West Greeley/

East Windsor, 12404 WCR 64 ½, Greeley, Colorado. For more information call 970-305-5070 or visit: www.integratedpedstherapy.com, www.tiggesfarm.com/ At 13912 Co Rd 19 in Platteville, Miller Farms is in its 21st season of offering pick-your-own veggie tours to the public. Fun for all ages, the farm’s fall harvest festival includes a tractor-pulled wagon ride out to the fields where guests can harvest potatoes, carrots, onions, beets, Indian corn, squash, peppers and pumpkins. Along with four grocery bags full of produce per guest, the admission price of $20/adult and $15/child includes activities such as a corn maze, peddle tractors and a petting zoo.

Miller Farms provides an opportunity for kids to play a hands-on role in the entire farm-to-table process, from harvesting their own food to cleaning, cooking and eating it. Guests are encouraged to bring garden gloves and spades, along with plenty of water and sun protection, and to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the farm and make a day of it! The farm is open daily from 9am-6pm through mid-November. Visit www.millerfarms.net to learn more.

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learn and live

The art of wandering How to get lost to find yourself

KIM SHARPE

Hike NoCo

Check out these websites to find just the right hike.

L

osing yourself in the great outdoors and all it has to offer is a wonderful way to find yourself. Okay, don’t get lost for real, but kids and adults alike can reap many benefits from hiking in northern Colorado’s world-famous natural areas and open spaces, and fall is an amazing time of year to get out and get going. Whether you challenge yourself by hiking a trail with steep inclines or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through an open space to take in all the colors of autumn and feel the crisp fall air on your skin, time spent wandering through wild spaces is refreshing for your whole family.

“A family hike together invites us to unplug and reconnect with the natural world by slowing down, engaging the senses and bringing attention to the present moment,” says Maria Fenty, a certified forest therapy guide based in Fort Collins. Plus, “When children spend time in nature their bodies and minds experience multiple benefits.”

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Those benefits include: physical exercise which leads to better health and higher immunity to illness and disease; a sense of discovery, wonder, joy, excitement and curiosity; improved attention spans; greater calm and fewer tantrums; sharper observation; and higher self-confidence.

“The less evident benefits of being outdoors is growth in a child’s understanding of life and development of the child’s value systems. Children begin to realize that they are part of a larger more complex world. They learn to give respect and take responsibility.

The concept of interdependence and frailty of humans teaches them invaluable lessons of gratitude and humility,” Fenty adds.

If you’re new to hiking, begin from the ground up by making sure everyone has comfortable footwear suitable for walking. Experienced trekkers also recommend wearing wool socks that wick away moisture and stay

• Estes Park www.visitestespark.com/things-to-do/ outdoor-adventures/hiking/ • Larimer County Natural Resources www.larimer.org/naturalresources • Pawnee National Grassland www.fs.usda.gov/arp • Poudre Canyon www.pwv.org/trails • Rocky Mountain National Park www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm

warm even if they get wet. Other items you should take along include: plenty of water and snacks; sunscreen and sunglasses; extra clothing layers (like a hat, gloves and rain gear); a headlamp or flashlight; first-aid supplies; waterproof matches, a lighter and a candle; and a map of where you plan to hike. Some of these items may seem a bit much for a day hike, but sometimes the unexpected happens and you may find yourself out longer than anticipated.

What are you waiting for? Go take a hike!

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community news

Taking care of our own

Healthy minds, local businesses, active transportation KIM SHARPE

On November 6 voters will be asked to approve a sales tax that will fund a mental health initiative in Larimer County.

According to the recently released Larimer County Community Master Plan for Behavioral Health, in 2016, more than 26,000 Larimer County residents needed, but did not receive, mental healthcare services. While some services exist, they are not comprehensive, nor all accessible.

Suicide rates and mental health services go hand in hand, and unfortunately our suicide rates in Larimer County also are high. Eighty-three people took their own lives in 2016, ranging in age from youth to older adults. Plus, many community members struggle with opioid addiction, alcoholism, depression and anxiety.

“Stigma related to mental health 14

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issues is a big problem in our community. We need to have conversations about it being okay to ask for help,” says Katie O’Donnell, Larimer County Department of Health and Environment public information officer. “We need to work on solutions to the mental health service gaps in our community, but we also need to teach our residents to be supportive.

Education is key.”

To learn more about mental health issues in Larimer County, read the Larimer County Community Master Plan for Behavioral Health: www.lccitizens formhm.com/the-solution.

NEW FORT COLLINS MOVEMENT PROMOTES LOCAL SHOPPING A group of locally owned, brick-andmortar business owners and supporters have come together to spread the

benefits of choosing local. We R Local also helps connect the public with locally owned businesses and explains how they give back to the community.

The group says that when people shop locally, it benefits the whole community.

For example: • For each dollar spent locally, 68 percent will go straight back into the local economy • Local businesses have created more than 65 percent of jobs since 1995 • Local businesses donate 250 percent more to area nonprofits.

The new We R Foco website, www. werfoco.com, includes a complete business directory of each company involved, stories about their connections to the community, and a list of events that these companies are either supporting, hosting or volunteering their services.

The site also features a local job board which highlights positions for people interested in working locally.

We R Foco also keeps the public up to date on new Fort Collins happenings, sales or promotions at their favorite businesses and other pertinent information via their social media outlets. View We R Foco on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.

LONG AWAITED LONG VIEW TRAIL IS COMPLETE The second paved trail connecting Loveland and Fort Collins—and each city’s extensive trail network—is now open to the public.

The 4.4-mile Long View Trail runs along the east side of North Taft Avenue (in Loveland) and South Shields Street (in Fort Collins) to provide a safe, non-motorized alternative to traveling between the two cities. The trail passes through three City of Fort Collins natural areas, one Larimer County open space

and one City of Loveland natural area.

The five public spaces, which consist of agricultural lands and wildlife habitat, offer trail users sweeping views of the foothills and mountains.

On the north end, the trail ties into a sidewalk and underpass that leads into the City of Fort Collins’ Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area and existing Fossil Creek Trail.

Construction is under way on the expansion of Fossil Creek Trail that will complete the gap between South Shields Street and Highway 287.

On the south end, the trail ties into the Loveland Recreation Trail Loop at the corner of 57th Street and North Taft Avenue. Just east of the intersection is Sunset Vista Natural Area, which has a trailhead with 23 parking stalls. A small gap in the Recreation Trail Loop remains along 57th Street until the trail fully encircles the city. While the Long View Trail project completed a piece of the gap, closing the remainder is a

top priority for the City of Loveland.

To learn more about regional trails, visit: http://bit.ly/ LongViewTrail, www.fcgov.com/ parkplanning/ or www.larimer.org/ naturalresources/parks/regionalpaved-trails project updates.

CENTENNIAL VILLAGE OPENS NEW WATER HISTORY EXHIBIT The City of Greeley, with the support of the Poudre Heritage Alliance and the Cache la Poudre National Heritage Area, opened a new exhibit area at Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A St., that highlights the importance and history of water. On display is an original Steel Eclipse Type Fairbanks-Morse windmill and part of the Ditch No. 3 headgate along with interpretive panels that tell the story of water in northern Colorado.

For more information about Centennial Village Museum and their exhibits, visit www.GreeleyMuseums.com or call 970-350-9220.

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healthy living

Preserving your garden goodness Freeze, can, dehydrate and refrigerate to save that food for later LEA HANSON

I

f you haven’t dived into food preservation before, this is the fall to try it out. Whether it is freezing, canning, drying (dehydrating), or simply refrigerating, preserving your garden harvest is always a good idea.

PRESERVING FOOD IS EASY Anyone can operate a store-bought food dehydrator or learn to blanch and freeze vegetables. Canning is more complex but not very difficult.

There are lots of fancy tools available to purchase, but one can perform very well with a set of jars and lids and a giant (two gallon or bigger) pot.

An endless number of books and websites are available to learn the basics. The first book I purchased, Keeping the Harvest by Nancy Chioffi (www.amazon.com/KeepingHarvest-Preserving-Down-Earth/ dp/0882666509) is easy to read, understand, and is still my favorite.

EASY TOMATO CANNING RECIPE Water Bath Canning Method Makes about 2-3/4 lbs tomatoes for each quart jar. Crushed tomatoes resemble whole or halved tomatoes in flavor, but since they are crushed they’re ideal for sauce, soup and stew recipes.

You will need:

• 2-3/4 lbs tomatoes per quart jar • ½ tsp Citric Acid or 2 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot quart jar or ¼ tsp Citric Acid or 1 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot pint jar • 1 tsp salt to each quart jar or 1/2 tsp salt to each pint jar (if desired) • Glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions: PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Wash lids in warm soapy water and set bands aside.

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Preserve your bounty WASH tomatoes. Dip in boiling water 30 to 60 seconds. Immediately dip in cold water. Slip off skins. Trim away any green areas and cut out core.

Leave tomatoes whole or cut into halves or quarters.

PACK hot tomatoes into hot jars to within a generous 1/2 inch of top of jar. Press tomatoes into the jar until the spaces between them fill with juice, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Add 1 teaspoon salt to each quart jar, 1/2 teaspoon to each pint jar, if desired. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary, by adding hot tomatoes. Wipe rim.

Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight. Place jar in boiling water canner. Repeat until all jars are filled.

PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes for pints and 45 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool.

Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

These community resources can help you prepare and preserve food.

• The Growing Project www.thegrowingproject.org Lending Library has canning kits, dehydrators, and a pressure cooker available through reservation.

• Sustainable Living Association www.sustainablelivingassociation.org Wise Kitchen Series: Making and preserving food and how to use products from area farms and CSA’s.

Courses are March – October.

• Larimer County Extension www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/ LARIMER/food/food.shtml Food preparation/preservation workshops June – October. 4-H program offers food preservation projects for members aged 8-18.

• Weld County Extension www.weld4h.org 4-H program offers food preservation projects for members aged 8-18.

• CSU Extension Food Safety Courses www.eventbrite.com/o/ csu-extension-foodpreservation-6622808397

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Rearing kids to be able to navigate the bigger world

Pampered

AND Entitled

Kim Sharpe

I

t’s natural for parents to want their children to grow up to become successful in all areas of their lives, unfortunately many sabotage their kids’ chances by over parenting. In an effort to protect their kids, some well-meaning parents will attempt to make their offsprings’ small world as safe and pain-free as possible, one which revolves around making their children happy and comfortable at all costs. But if children grow up in a warm-and-fuzzy bubble that’s all about them, they’re in for a rude awakening once they have to operate in the real world.

“No parent intends to raise an entitled child,” says Amy McCready, author of The “Me, Me, Me” Epidemic.

“Over indulging our kids and doing things for them they should be doing for themselves can be tempting fixes to ease short-term aggravation, but we’re doing a monumental disservice to our kids in the long run…Pampered and indulged kids will one day grow into narcissistic adults, demanding spouses and high-maintenance employees.”

One way parents can stop over indulging their children can be summed up in one little word.

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JUST SAY “NO” Imagine waiting in a store’s check-out line that has toys and candy strategically placed at a child’s eye level. Of course, a small human in that line will want everything in sight and she might become quite vocal about it, embarrassing her parent. A quick fix would be to give in and buy whatever trinket or treat the demanding child wants, but standing firm and denying the child instant gratification will eventually reduce a child’s expectations that their every wish is their parent’s command.

In her book, Bringing Up Bébé: One American Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting, which is based on her observations of raising children in France, Pamela Druckerman says, “One of the most impressive parts of French parenting—and perhaps the toughest one to master—is authority…Their kids actually listen to them. French children aren’t constantly dashing off, talking back, or engaging in prolonged negotiations.”

What’s the secret to French parents’ success? One component is that their “no” means “no.” They don’t say “no,” and then cave in and give their children what they want to appease them.

Druckerman says it “…requires a paradigm shift. I’m so used to believing that everything revolves around the kids.

Being more ‘French’ means moving the center of gravity away from them...”

GREAT EXPECTATIONS When humans—big or small—are presented with high expectations, they tend to rise to the occasion, or at least try to. So it follows that parents can

set their children up for success when they set high expectations. Expecting children to contribute to their family by helping with household chores teaches responsibility and team work.

Expecting children to behave sends a message about what type of actions are socially acceptable. Expecting kids to eat what they’re served is about educating them “that there is a rich world of flavors out there…to appreciate,” according to Druckerman.

She says that in France, there is no such thing as ‘kids’ food, children eat with adults at meal times and don’t fill up on snacks between, and they are allowed to choose from a variety of food.

If they don’t like something the first time, they’re encouraged to try it again.

NATURAL CONSEQUENCES When children are little, the consequences of their making a poor choice typically are minimal. For example, in elementary school, if they forget their lunch, they may have to settle for a carton of milk and a package of crackers from the cafeteria, but they won’t starve. If they forget their homework in high school, they may receive a failing grade for that assignment, but it won’t devastate their career.

Parents do their kids a favor by allowing them to experience natural consequences when the stakes are low.

Foster W. Cline, author of Parenting with Love and Logic: Teaching Children Responsibility, says, “If we never let our kids struggle to get something they want or work through a problem for themselves, then when things get difficult later in life, they

won’t suddenly turn tough and get going; instead, they’ll just quit.”

LET THEM BE BORED Children also should learn how to entertain themselves, but for kids whose days are packed full of activities from morning till night, they never get a chance.

A natural way to help kids become more creative is to turn them loose outdoors, giving them space to roam and explore their environment on their own terms.

If children aren’t used to being kicked outdoors to invent their own fun, they may say “there’s nothing to do” or proclaim that “it’s boring outside.” That’s a good thing, says Lenore Skenazy, author of Free Range Kids. “Boredom is good for kids. It forces them to entertain themselves, which ignites their creative intelligence. From this, they learn that they can solve their own problems.

And that is huge!”

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When the world feels

PRICKLY Bringing up a child with sensory issues

D

o you have a toddler who fights getting dressed? Or kicks and screams during a haircut? Is it impossible to take your child out to a restaurant or shopping without a melt down? Occasionally responding with a temper tantrum is not unusual for a toddler, but if it happens more than once a day or always in certain situations it might be time to have your child checked for a sensory disorder or another condition.

SENSORY DISORDERS, DEFINED Kids with sensory processing disorders (SPD) don’t react to information gathered by the five senses the same as everyone else. That’s because their nervous system receives messages differently. Information gets mixed up in their brain and causes them to misinterpret the message. For example, a light tap on the shoulder might feel like a hard poke (or nothing at all), or walking on sand might feel like stepping on glass.

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“Kids with sensory processing disorders might react to different food textures, a tag on their shirt or loud noises, like hearing a toilet flush. These unusual sensory responses can directly impact their daily lives at home and at school,” says Colleen Janssen, MS, Speech/Language Pathologist.

It’s estimated that nearly 1 in 20 people are affected by SPD, according to the STAR Institute. While SPD isn’t officially included in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM5) as a stand-alone diagnosis, it is accepted clinically, with treatment offered by occupational and speech-language therapists.

“It is widely accepted that many children have unusual sensory responses. Occupational therapists use standardized tests to determine if the difficulties are significant, and help determine how to best help a child develop needed skills,” Janssen says.

Lynn U. Nichols

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO HAVE SPD If your toddler has SPD, there’s a good chance they seem frustrated a lot. As you can imagine, receiving jumbled messages is tiring and confusing. For example, kids with sensory processing issues don’t care for being touched, so play dates and crowded places can be difficult. Being in public places can also be hard because noises are often amplified. They may try to hide under tables or get up and move to escape the noise. When it comes to eating, a child with SPD might be called a picky eater for refusing to eat foods that have a strong smell or have certain textures including foods that are sticky, crunchy, cold or slippery. Certain lighting, like fluorescent lights in big box stores, can irritate them.

Considering all the ways we receive information, it seems natural that young kids with SPD would become overwhelmed and react. According to studies by Lauren Wakschlag who

Signs of SPD

Your child might perceive the world differently than others. Here are some indicators.

INFANT/TODDLERS  Only goes to you  Trouble falling asleep  Extreme irritability when dressing  Hard time shifting focus  Avoids toys that require dexterity  Is easily startled  Doesn’t verbalize a lot  Extremely active and constantly moving  Delayed in crawling, standing or walking PRE-SCHOOL  Oversensitive to stimulation  Unaware of touch, unsure with body  In constant motion  Difficulty with toilet training  Has friendship problems  Is extra demanding and hard to calm  Has difficulty with transitions  Is moody and has temper tantrums  Speech is hard to understand  Doesn’t follow instructions well Source: Star Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder (www.spdstar.org)

developed the Temper Tantrum Scale, kids who have a temper tantrum every day, especially if it’s coupled with hitting, biting, kicking or staying angry for a long time, may need a professional diagnosis. SPD can exist on its own, but it is often associated with autism, ADHD and fragile x syndrome.

“When a child has significant responses to visual, touch or auditory stimuli that affect their functioning in daily routines and in communication with others, it’s a problem. But there are solutions,” Janssen said.

HELPING YOUR SENSITIVE CHILD LIVE A HAPPIER LIFE Janssen is a big fan of “sequencing”— letting your child know the order of activities and what to expect. It helps every child succeed, but especially those with SPD. As a seasoned speechlanguage therapist that works in the schools, she has seen sequencing turn a tantrum into a workable situation. It

makes sense: kids who are overwhelmed find comfort in knowing the plan.

Maintain a daily routine for your child and talk to him about each step before it happens. For example, say, ‘First we are getting dressed then we will pack your lunch. After that we will leave the house and walk to the bus stop.

Once you get to school you will put your backpack in your cubbie and go sit at your desk.’ Get as detailed as you can.

Through her work with preschoolers and young elementary kids, Janssen has learned the power of pictures. It led her to develop a picture board for teachers to use in the classroom and parents to use at home, called My Day Board (@ mydayboard on Twitter and mydayboard on Facebook).

“Pictures give children more information and help them process the information in another way besides verbally. When they see a picture along with hearing a simple directive, they have two ways to understand what’s

happening and to follow through on the task. I have seen kids have tantrums on the floor and when they see a picture of what they will be doing first, then second, they get up and participate,” she adds.

For example, My Day Board has visuals of different common activities, including get dressed, eat, car, park, school, snack, doctor, nurse, etc. The pictures give kids a chance to ask questions about their day and get more details, which adds to their understanding and acceptance.

If you don’t have a visual for what you have planned, it’s still important to tell your child what to expect. Doing so will ease transitions and help limit negative reactions.

Occupational therapists work with kids with sensory disorders to retrain the senses. Using fun activities, therapists challenge their senses, sometimes with multi-sensory exercises to help train the brain to wire multisensory sensations together. The goal is to help kids gain tolerance for being touched, hearing loud noises, being in social situations and eating a variety of foods.

Besides reviewing the steps of what’s happening next, parents have found success in simple ways such as cutting tags off clothing, having their elementary-aged child play on the younger kids playground at the park to ease concerns of cold metal and fastmoving kids, having a code word for when their child needs a break from a social situation, and learning their child’s sensory triggers and avoiding them in public (e.g. ice in drinks). If your child is getting frustrated, try letting him take a sensory break with noise-cancelling headphones, wearing sunglasses in a brightly lit store, or staying on the fringe of a crowd.

While having a child with sensory processing issues may present some challenges, loving them is not one of them. Remember, they don’t like what they are feeling any more than you do.

Be gentle and patient, and seek help from those in the know. The more you help when they are young, the better they’ll be able to cope as they grow older and gain independence.

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greeley district 6 news District 6 counselor named Counselor of the Year

Bethany Balderrama, a counselor at Northridge High School, has been named the high school level Counselor of the Year for 2018 by the Colorado School Counselor Association.

Balderrama has been a counselor at Northridge for nine years, spending her entire career at the school. The award honors professionals who serve as advocates for their students.

A panel selects winners based on their innovation, effective counseling programs, strong leadership and advocacy skills.

Northridge Principal Insoon Olson says Balderrama exhibits all these traits and more.

“We wouldn’t be able to do all the work we do without her leadership,” Olson says. “We thank her for all she does to support children.”

Her peers at Northridge surprised Balderrama, who attended Colorado State University and the University of Phoenix, Monday morning with the announcement of her award. She 24

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says her mother was a middle school counselor, and after exploring other careers, she eventually decided to follow her mother’s lead and become a high school counselor.

“Ultimately, we are helping students reach their goals and navigate roadblocks,” she says. “It is amazing to see all of the students who have gone through our school and are seeing success.”

The Colorado School Counselor Association will recognize Balderrama, and the winners from the elementary and middle school levels, at its annual conference in Keystone October 17-19.

A panel will select one of the winners to represent Colorado in the national Counselor of the Year competition.

DISTRICT 6 PERFORMANCE RATINGS HIT AN HISTORIC HIGH Greeley-Evans School District 6 has more schools rated as Performance than it ever has before, the highest rating given by the Colorado Department of Education.

The Colorado Department of Education released preliminary performance ratings for school districts and schools throughout the state. With few exceptions, schools in District 6 are performing better than ever before since the implementation of the CMAS testing and accountability model.

“I am incredibly proud of how hard our educators and administrators have worked to ensure all students achieve and grow,” says Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch. “This has been very intentional, very focused work on changing school cultures instructional practices, and it is paying off.”

There were several significant improvements of note. Three District 6 schools that were on the accountability clock and rated in turnaround or priority improve categories for more than four years, have achieved the highest rating of Performance. Two of these schools – Prairie Heights Middle School and Billie Martinez Elementary School – are on plans of innovation, approved

Under the state’s accountability model, schools that were on the accountability clock must now be in Improvement or Performance two years before they are off the clock.

Here is a summary of how District 6 schools were rated this year:

by the State Board of Education.

Centennial Elementary School, which last year entered its fourth year on the accountability clock, is also rated at Performance in these preliminary ratings.

Scott Elementary School, entering its fourth year on the accountability clock, reached the Improvement rating and Dos Rios Elementary School, in its first year of a Priority Improvement rating, moved to Improvement this year.

• 16 schools are rated at Performance, up from 15 last year • Seven schools went up in their ratings • 18 schools maintained ratings • Three schools went down in ratings • Three schools are rated Priority Improvement or Turnaround, compared to seven in that category last year

In 2014, 11 District 6 schools were rated at Performance and 10 schools were rated as Priority Improvement or Turnaround.

“This is unprecedented in District 6,” says Board of Education President Roger DeWitt. “We are proud of the direction the district is headed and the work our staff is doing. This is what happens when a district has a very intentional approach to improving schools.”

The three schools in Priority Improvement or Turnaround are Meeker Elementary School, Salida Del Sol Academy and Fred Tjardes School of Innovation. Meeker students were displaced in November last year after a water main break flooded their schools. Fred Tjardes just completed its first year of operation. Dr. Pilch says these schools will receive more support from the district level to ensure their student achievement and growth improve this year.

The performance ratings are not official until December, when the State Board of Education will assign final ratings to schools and school districts.

This gives school districts time to request a reconsideration for ratings.

District 6 will not be requesting a reconsideration for any of its preliminary ratings. To view all Preliminary Performance Frameworks for every district and school in Colorado, visit www.cde.state.co.us/accountability/ performanceframeworkresults.

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poudre school district news Astronaut speaks with students from space

Dr. Serena Auñón-Chancellor’s senior quote in Poudre High School’s 1993 yearbook now reads like a prophesy.

“Hey guys, watch for me in the stars!”

Wednesday morning at Poudre High School, an auditorium filled with hundreds of students did exactly that.

They sat transfixed and watched a live video feed of a woman who had once walked the halls of their school float weightless aboard the International Space station.

“Station, this is Poudre High School,” science teacher Tim Lenczycki says to his former student. “How do you hear me?”

“Poudre High School, I have you loud and clear,” Dr. Auñón-Chancellor responds. “Welcome to the International Space Station!”

The crowd erupted into applause, and one by one, students walked up to the microphone to ask her their burning 26

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questions about space travel. What type of research is she doing? Can you wear makeup up there? How has her understanding of the cosmos changed since going into space? How does doing a real spacewalk compare to the movies?

Then, Poudre High School student Alison Larson walked up to the microphone.

“How did Poudre High School prepare you for your career?”

Dr. Auñón-Chancellor started by speaking directly to her former teacher Mr. Lenczycki.

“I remember sitting in your class when I was at Poudre High School, and I remember that you made science fun,” she says. “One of the biggest things that I think can impact students at school is making class personal to them. … The one thing that everyone did at Poudre High School was spend time with me, and that’s one of our most precious commodities. … They believed in me,

and they told me that.”

Mr. Lenczycki remembered having Dr. Auñón-Chancellor in his classroom more than two decades ago. Even then, she knew exactly what she wanted to do with her life. Decades later, in an IMAX theater at the Kennedy Space Center, Mr. Lenczycki found out she’d realized her dream.

“All of a sudden, there’s Serena, with her face four stories tall,” he says.

“And my jaw just dropped. ‘Oh my gosh; she’s an astronaut! This is incredible.’”

From there, the two began exchanging emails, and Dr. Auñón-Chancellor suggested the video call with Poudre High School students.

Mr. Lenczycki says he hopes that students sitting in that auditorium felt inspired by talking with Dr. Auñón-Chancellor even if, unlike her, they have not decided their lifelong goal by age 17.

“I hope students can see that

‘anything I want to do is possible,’” Mr. Lenczycki says. “I think it’s very normal for these students not to know what they want, but they need to know they have those real opportunities. ‘Gosh, someone sitting in my seat is an astronaut now.’ That’s empowering.”

LAUREL STUDENTS EXPLORE PLANT SCIENCE Kindergartener Kennedy Hix carefully cupped tiny radish seeds in her hands before gently poking holes in the dirt so she could plant them.

“Today I learned how to take care of a plant,” she says, standing next to one of Laurel Elementary School’s new garden beds. “You need dirt and a seed and you have to water it.”

Through a partnership with Big Green, Laurel Elementary School recently opened its own learning garden.

These gardens are at schools across PSD and help students learn about where their food comes from through hands-on experiences with plant science.

During their first day in the garden, Laurel students planted radishes, carrots, lettuce and spinach – Kennedy’s favorite.

They cheered when they learned

that in just a few weeks, they’d be able to spot small seedlings poking out from the ground. Before they know it, they’ll be harvesting their own salads.

“We really just want to expose them to the process of growing food and enjoying it,” Laurel kindergarten teacher and garden coordinator Emily Anderson says. “When you purchase a fruit or veg-

etable from the store, it doesn’t always look like the plant that it comes from.”

Take baby carrots as an example, she says. Kids often see them cut into baby carrots and wrapped in plastic. But thanks to the garden, these students will now be able to pull the colorful root vegetable from the ground themselves and see what it looks like in its most natural state.

These students already have a grasp of how plants grow, Anderson says.

Starting from kindergarten, they’ve been learning about the plant life cycle. But now, teachers at Laurel will be able to show it to students in real time.

“They’ll get to see all the stages now,” she says.

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thompson school district news Students receive bicycles and helmets This past month, approximately 200 students at Winona Elementary School were presented with brand new bicycles and helmets. All kindergarten, first and second graders were presented with the generous gift.

The bikes and helmets were provided through a partnership with “Wish for Wheels� and Anakarko, which served as a corporate sponsor.

Wish for Wheels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that gives brand new bicycles and helmets to students in schools that fall into the Title 1 category. The organization says that

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their mission is to “…transform the lives of kids from low-income families, broadening their scope for personal growth and a healthy lifestyle.”

Thompson School District is extremely grateful for the partnership with “Wish for Wheels” and Anadarko.

EXPLORE THOMPSON PROGRAM LAUNCHES The 2018-2019 edition of Thompson School District’s “Explore Thompson” program will officially launch on October 18. “Explore Thompson” is an in-depth program that is designed to take community members on a journey throughout TSD, learning about the structure of the district and more. For more information go to www.thompson schools.org/explorethompson.

SAFETY AND SECURITY MANAGER HIRED Thompson School District has named Joe Vodjansky as Safety and Security Manager. He will fill the role that was

vacated by Jesse Lunsford, who has departed the district.

Mr. Vodjansky has been serving in the position on an interim basis during the search process. He previously worked as a safety and security prevention specialist for the district beginning last September. His career experience also includes four years of service as a corrections deputy and reserve deputy for the Larimer County Sheriff ’s Office.

“I find myself humbled and excited to continue my career within Thompson School District.” Mr. Vodjansky says.

“I look forward to working with people throughout the district to help keep our students, staff and community safe.”

Mr. Vodjansky graduated from basic police academy at Arapahoe Community College and is currently enrolled at Chadron State College, where he is working to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies.

visit rmparent magazine online for: community news healthy living family activities events calendar

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OCTOBER 2018 ONGOING MONDAYS Be You Parenting Online Live Radio Show Listen live or hear archived shows. 11am12noon. www.inspiredchoicesnetwork. com/author/marydravisparrish.

MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS Read and Seed Preschool readiness activities including story and related craft. Ages 2-5 with adult. Registration required for groups of more than five students. $3. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 416-2486 www.fcgov.com/gardens.

SECOND THURSDAYS Hugs Social Group for Grandparents and Other Kin Raising Kin Connect with others in similar situations.

Mountain View Presbyterian Church, 2500 N. Garfield Ave., LV. 11:30am-1:30pm. 669-2837 www.GrandFamilyCoalition.com.

FOURTH THURSDAYS Hugs Social Group for Grandparents and Other Kin Raising Kin Connect with others in similar situations.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 5450 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 12noon-2:30pm. 669-2837 www.GrandFamilyCoalition.com.

OCTOBER 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Teen Monster Mash Movie Matinee Celebrate spooky October with friends, “scary” movies and monstrously good fun.

Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

OCTOBER 5 THROUGH OCTOBER 20 A Little Princess Timeless message of believing in hope, friendship, generosity and power of positivity when things are at their darkest.

All ages. $8. Lincoln Center Magnolia Theater, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. Times vary.

221-6730, www.lctix.com.

THROUGH OCTOBER 13 Joshua Goss Sculpture Exhibition Metalwork sculptures inspired by geology, metal forming and creation of the Rocky Mountains. Tointon Gallery for Visual Arts, 651 10th St., GR. 9am-5pm MondaySaturday. www.greeleyart.com.

OCTOBER 12 THROUGH OCTOBER 13 Annie Jr. Based on popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical. $12, $5-limited view. Hensel Phelps Theatre, 701 10th Ave., GR. Times vary. 356-5000, www.ucstars.com.

OCTOBER 19 THROUGH 20 Find Your Voice - Take a Stand Anti-bullying workshop for middle/high school students. First United Methodist Church, 1005 Stover St., FC. Friday, 9am4pm; Saturday, 9am-1:30pm. 689-0226 www.interculturalcommunitybuilders.org.

Fort Collins Book Festival: The Big Think Exchange of ideas and knowledge where science, technology and community collide. Features storytellers, scientists and creative visionaries. Multiple locations in Old Town, FC. www.FoCoBookFest.org.

Hogwarts Halloween Witches, wizards and muggles explore haunted halls of Hogwarts…casting spells, creating potions, playing Quidditch, more. $15/child, $5/adult. Northside Aztlan Community Center, 112 E. Willow St. FC. 6-9pm each night. 221-6655 www.fcgov.com/hogwartshalloween.

OCTOBER 20 THROUGH JANUARY 6 National Geographic Exhibition: Photo Ark Features large-format images of endangered species taken by worldrenowned photographer Joel Sartore prints. $4-entrance fee plus admission; Freemembers. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am-5pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org/photoark.

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

Loveland (970) 493-7442

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

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Join us this season for the best of Fort Collins: bikes, beer, farms, food and fun.

We create fortified connections through events with a purpose.

OUR 2018 SEASON

F O R T I F I E D C O L L A B O R AT I O N S . C O M

9/16 Harvest Moon Salmon Bake 10/7 Harvest Brunch

CULTIVATED BY:

10/20 Bounty and Brews Beer Dinner 11/11 Mad Farmer Dinner

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OCTOBER 26 THROUGH 28 Treatsylvania Not-so-spooky event for trick-ortreating, hayrides, pumpkin patch visits, refreshments. Ages 10 and under. $5/child in advance. The Farm at Lee Martinez Park, 600 N. Sherwood, FC. Times vary.

221-6665, www. fcgov.com/treatsylvania.

THROUGH NOVEMBER 11 Mary Poppins Everyone’s favorite, practically perfect nanny takes the stage in this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Dr., Johnstown.

Times vary. 744-3747 www.ColoradoCandlelight.com.

THROUGH DECEMBER 30 Betty Woodman Tribute Exhibition Renowned artist and CU professor’s exuberant ceramic vases, sculptures and prints. $5, free-members.

Loveland Museum, 503 N. Lincoln Ave. LV. Hours vary. 962-2410 www.lovelandmuseumgallery.org.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2 3D Printing Learn how 3D printing works with easy software that will bring your ideas to life.

Registration required; Ages 10+. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 6pm.

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3 Messy Hands Art for Preschoolers New adventure each week. First of four Oct. classes. Wear clothes that can get messy. Ages 4-6. Registration required.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am. 221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org.

The Wisdom of Children with Barbara and Heather Williams Local authors and mother/daughter duo will discuss this new book. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm.

484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Phyllis Walbye Film Series: Lucky This old U.S. Navy veteran finds that he must accept his remarkably healthy old age will inevitably decline. $6. Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm. 962-2120 www.rialtotheatercenter.org.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5 The Reader’s Guide to Mackenzi Lee This best-selling YA author will discuss her new book, The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Harvest Fest Sample many varieties of fruits and berries that grow well in Colorado. Vote for your favorite. Fossil Creek Nursery, 7029 S. College Ave., FC. 10am-3pm. 226-4924 www.fossilcreeknursery.com.

Downtown Sessions Concert Series Free, family-friendly concerts featuring a diverse line up of small- to medium-sized Colorado musical acts, plus beer service.

Old Town Square Stage, FC. 6-9pm www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Kids Explore Art Explore and create unique works with various tools and techniques. First of four Oct. classes. Grades K-3. Registration required. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am. 221-6740 www.PoudreLibraries.org.

First Friday Gallery Walk Fifteen of Old Town’s finest galleries, museums and art-minded 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.

Take Apart Day Deconstruct everything from alarm clocks to printers and see electronics from inside out. All ages included with admission. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am-1pm. 221-6738 www.fcmod.org.

Grand Opening of “Living Aloha: Hawaii’s Enduring Legacy” Art, artifacts, clothing and treasures from the 49th state. All ages. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 6-9pm. 221-4600 www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

Special Needs Sensory Stories For children who have a hard time in large groups, are on autism spectrum or sensitive to sensory overload. Registration required.

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

Astronomy and Skygazing: Delightful Darkness: Darkness benefits humans and wildlife.

Learn how the City of Fort Collins is working to protect our night skies. All ages. Registration required. Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, 22998 Rawhide Flats Rd., Wellington. 6:30-11pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register.

Imagineart Explore and create unique works with various tools and techniques. First of four Oct. classes. Grades 4-7. Registration required. Harmony Library 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1pm. 221-6740 www.PoudreLibraries.org.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6 Taste in Timnath Fall Festival and 5K Celebrate fall with wagon rides, music, food, beer, 5K run, more. All ages. $5-unlimited food and one beer. Main Street in Timnath, 5K run at 9am Festival-10am-2pm. 663-1888 www.timnath.org/taste.

Family Safety and Emergency Preparedness Expo Home-safety education classes, life- and fire-safety info, supplies, emergency vehicle tours, activities, raffles, more. The Ranch, Thomas M. McKee 4H Building, 5280 Arena Cir., LV. 10am-2pm. www.poudre-fire.org.

Book Signing with Daniel Scannell Local author Daniel Scannell will sign copies of his new book, The Fall of a Sparrow. Old Firehouse Books 232 Walnut St., FC. 1-2pm. 484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Fort Collins Symphony Masterworks 1 Concert: Hollywood to the Big Apple The Season 69 opener celebrates American composer Leonard Bernstein with the seldom-performed Symphony No. 1, Jeremiah among others. $35-55, students-$5 with ID. Lincoln Center 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 7:30pm.

482-4823, www.fcsymphony.org.

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Collin Raye His soulful delivery of country standards and searing ballads has set the cornerstone for a career built on meaningful and emotional songs. $36, +$15-VIP. Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St. LV. 7:30pm. 962-2120 www.rialtotheatercenter.org.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7 Psychic Show for Teens Features Erica Sodas, local motivational speaker and psychic entertainer.

Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St. Evans. 3pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9

Tiny Trekkers Crafts, stories and fun facts. Ages 2-5 with adult. Registration required. Devil’s Backbone Open Space parking lot, just west of Loveland on Hwy. 34. 9:30-10:30am.

619-4565, https://offero.larimer.org.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10

Rocky Mountain Raptors: Owls Learn all about owls and meet a few in person. All ages Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6:30pm. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org.

Seeds of Change An ornery young girl embarks on a self-discovery journey. Inspired by myth, fairy tales and Shakespeare’s The Tempest, show fosters environmental literacy. All ages. $5. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm.

356-5000, www.ucstars.com.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11

Murder at Lincoln Park Greeley Police Department talks fingerprinting, DNA, evidence gathering, deductive reasoning, more.

Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

24 Hours in Nowhere with Dusti Bowling Award-winning middle grade author Dusti Bowling will discuss her new book. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

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2nd Annual Ballet & Beer Contemporary dance and ballet with playful and slightly wicked works. PG13 show. $20-25. The Lyric, 1209 N. College Ave, FC. 6:30pm and 8:30pm.

472-4156, www.lyriccinema.com.

An Evening with Tom Clavin Tom Clavin will discuss his latest novel, Valley Forge. The Fort Collins Hilton, 425 W. Prospect Rd., FC. 7pm. 484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12

Loveland Connect – Volunteers Needed One stop event for homeless or near homeless to find resources. Volunteers needed! Truscott Elementary, 211 W. 6th St., LV. 7am-1pm. 962-2517 www.lifecenternoco.org/serve/ loveland-connect.

Beyond the Classroom: ASL Discover sign language while relating it to everyday things. Registration required. Grades 3-5. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 1pm. 888861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

CSU Homecoming Festival on the Oval Live music, children’s activities, food trucks and beer garden. The Oval at CSU, Oval Dr. and Laurel St., FC. 3-6pm. www.homecoming.colostate.edu.

CSU Homecoming Parade University and community floats, CSU marching band, more. Begins at corner of Washington and Laurel St., traveling east on Laurel to the Oval on campus.

4:30pm. www.homecoming.colostate.edu.

Library Scavenger Hunt Do you have what it takes to find the clues to unlock the grand prize?

Registration required. Ages 12-18.

Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave. GR. 6pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

Friday Night Lights CSU homecoming pep rally: bonfire, fireworks and lighting of the A. Lawn just west of CSU Lory Student Center, FC. 6:30pm. www.homecoming. colostate.edu.

Astronomy and Skygazing: The Moon Dance Learn about the movement of the moon and what determines its phases. All ages. Registration required. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, 10184 W. CR 32C, LV. 6:30-11pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13

Culture in the Courtyard: Legends and Lore Hear local legends, decipher truth with clues. All ages. Suggested donation-$3.

Library Park, Heritage Courtyard, 200 Mathews St., FC. 10am-1pm. 221-6738 www.fcmod.org.

Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off & Fall Jamboree Annual giant pumpkin contest plus beer tent, food truck, fun kid activities.

All ages. Fort Collins Nursery, 2121 E. Mulberry, FC. 10am-3pm. 482-1984. www.FortCollinsNursery.com.

Girl Power: Learn to Code Learn the basics of drag-anddrop coding and explore computer programming. Girls, ages 8-15. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am.

221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

Troll House Mini Garden Create a secret woodland home for this friendly troll and his pet dragonfly.

All ages. $30. Gulley Greenhouse and Garden Center, 6029 S. Shields St., FC. 10:30 am-12noon. 223-4769 www.gulleygreenhouse.com.

Harvest Celebration Fun-filled family event with food trucks, adult beverages, music and more.

Loveland Youth Gardeners, 907 S. Lincoln Ave., LV. 12noon-3pm. www.lovelandyouthgardeners.org.

Historic Hawaii: America’s Youngest State Explore history of Hawaii with Lloyd Walker, retired from CSU Civil Engineering Department. All ages. $5. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 1-3pm. 221-4600 www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

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CSU Homecoming Game Cheer the Rams to a Homecoming victory over New Mexico. $43.

Canvas Stadium, 1415 Meridian Ave. FC. 2pm kickoff. www.homecoming.colostate.edu.

Stargazing with Northern Colorado Astronomical Society (NCAS) Get an up-close look at the night sky over the Rockies. Telescopes provided.

All ages. Registration encouraged.

Devil’s Backbone Open Space parking lot, just west of Loveland on Hwy. 34.

7-9pm. https://offero.larimer.org.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14

CSU Homecoming 5K Race Fast, flat route on CSU campus for runners/walkers of all ages. Plus Kids Fun Run led by CAM the Ram. $20/25. Moby Complex, Shields St. and W. Elizabeth, FC. 9-10:30am. www.homecoming.colostate.edu.

Freaky Foods A hands-on Halloween-themed cooking class. Registration required. Grades 6-12. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 1pm. 221-6740 www.PoudreLibraries.org.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 15

High Altitude Baking with Nicole Hampton Free demo and class with Colorado baker and author. Ginger & Baker, 359 Linden St., FC. Demo 5-5:30pm Class 6-8pm. 484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Smart Cycling: Road Rules Learn to ride safely and legally in traffic or on trails. Ages 12+. Community Center at the Pavilion in the Laurel Village, 920 W. Plum St., FC. 5:30-8pm. 221-6987 http://engage.fcgov.com.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16

On the Road to Reading Early Literacy Fair Free, fun, interactive learning activities.

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

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17

Smart Cycling: Road Skills Learn on-bike skills to build confidence for riding with traffic on trails and roads.

Ages 15+. Walk and Wheel Skills Hub 1600 W. Drake Rd., FC. 2:30-6:30pm.

221-6987, http://engage.fcgov.com.

History of the Devil’s Backbone Explore the story of gypsum mine and plaster mill, the remains of which are still visible. All ages. Registration required.

Devil’s Backbone Open Space, just west of Loveland on Hwy. 34. 4:30-6pm.

619-4565, https://offero.larimer.org.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18

Pitter Patter in the Dome Journey through the water cycle then make own rain cloud. All ages.

Registration recommended. $5/child ($4-members). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10:1511am. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

Fun with Ollie the Otter Hear how to follow your dreams, enjoy snacks and meet Ollie the Otter. PreK1st grade. Otter Shop, 151 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 11am-12noon. 825-5650. www.facebook.com/ottershop.

LEGO Builders All supplies provided to create your favorite dinosaur out of LEGOs. Grades K-5. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1pm. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org.

Richard Marx Richard Marx is the only male artist in history to have his first seven singles reach the Top 5 on the Billboard charts. $42, +$15-VIP. Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 962-2120 www.rialtotheatercenter.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19

Integrated Pediatric Therapy Fall Festival Free event for special needs families.

Golf cart transportation for those unable to walk through pumpkin patch.

Accessible restrooms available. All ages.

Free pumpkin for ages 0-21. Tigges Farm, 12404 WCR 64 ½, GR. 2-6pm.

305-5070, www.tiggesfarm.com.

Riverdale Whodunit Murder Mystery Party Solve the fictional murder of Jughead Jones and help apprehend the murderer.

Ages 12-18. Registration required.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St. FC. 7pm. 221-6740 www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Skygazing Northern Colorado Astronomical Society provides telescopes and expertise about stars, planets, and galaxies. Bring blankets/chairs. All ages. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, 3340 Carpenter Rd., FC. 7:30-9:30pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20

Art of the Garage Tour Peek at classic cars, luxury rides, art, rock & roll, restoration, more. $35-tour and after party; $20-tour only. Tour locations vary, FC. 10am-4pm. 482-2787 www.ArtOfTheGarage.org.

Museum Takeover: Frankenfest Learn of Dr. Frankenstein, his monster, and their creator writer. Reanimate worms from the dead, explore electricity, create monsters, more. All ages Normal admission fees. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

Sticky Fingers Cooking Children prepare and eat healthy, international inspired recipes while learning to cook in fun, engaging, hands-on way. Registration required.

Grades K-5. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 2pm, 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band This iconic and profoundly influential band shares their string of top hits in country rock and American roots music. $50/$37/$25. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 356-5000 www.ucstars.com.

LEARN TO SWIM YEAR-ROUND! 1 ON 1 PRIVATE CLASSES WE TEACH BABIES TO ADULTS 86ยบ INDOOR HEATED POOL PROFESSIONAL CARING STAFF

HIGH PLAINS SCUBA

115 W. HARVARD ST โ ข FT. COLLINS WWW.HIGHPLAINSSCUBA.COM

970-493-8562

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21

Spooky Miniature Gardening Class Create your own spooky, Halloween themed fantasy world with plants, accessories, imagination. All ages. $40.

Fort Collins Nursery, 2121 E. Mulberry, FC. 11am-12:30pm & 1:30-3pm.

482-1984, www.FortCollinsNursery.com.

6th Annual Gala for the Museum: Living Aloha Fundraiser for Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures with Hawaiian music, entertainment, food, silent/live auctions. All ages. $60. Fort Collins Country Club, 1920 Country Club Rd., FC. 4-7pm. 221-4600 www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

Go with The Flow with John Scalzi Hugo-winning author John Scalzi will discuss the second book in his Interdependency series, The Consuming Fire. Free ticket reservation required. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 2000 Stover St., FC. 7-10pm. 484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23

Tiny Trekkers Crafts, stories and fun facts. Ages 2-5 with adult. Registration required.

River Bluffs Open Space, just east of I-25 between Windsor and Timnath. 9:3010:30am. 619-4565 https://offero.larimer.org.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25

Greeley History Brown Bag Series This month’s topic: America’s Greatest Battle by Ron Edgerton. Greeley History Museum Community Room, 714 8th St., GR. 12–1pm. 350-9222.

Find Nature in the Everyday with Julia Corbett Author will discuss new book with whimsical yet insightful essays. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm.

484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26 Rediscover Bob Marley with Marcia Douglas Boulder-author Marcia Douglas will discuss her book, The Marvellous Equations of the Dread, a Bob Marley reincarnation story written in Bass Riddim. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Starlight Storytelling Around the Campfire Spend a cozy evening by the campfire, complete with stories and s’mores. All ages. Nix Farm, 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., FC. 6:30-8pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register.

Rialto Halloween Film Series: The Monster Silent film with musical accompaniment by Hank Troy. A clerk and aspiring detective investigate mysterious disappearance close to an empty insane asylum. $12. Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm.

962-2120, www.rialtotheatercenter.org.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 Moms Who Rise Conference Speakers and panels to help moms to live and fulfill their purpose while embracing motherhood. $97-297. University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., GR, 8am6pm (8:30pm with dinner/comedy tickets). www.itstotalmomsense.com.

Halloween Enchanted Garden A candy-free celebration with oldfashioned fun. Ages 8 and under. $5/child, Free-2 and under. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10am-2pm.

416-2486, www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Halloween Family Fun Festival Family entertainment, trick-or-treating, costume contest, more.

Peters Park and parking lot, next to Loveland Museum, LV. 10am-2pm. www.lovelandmuseumgallery.org.

Kokedama Class Japanese craft: create living moss ball planted with a houseplant. All ages. $30.

Gulley Greenhouse and Garden Center, 6029 S. Shields St., FC. 10:30 am-12noon. 2234769, www.gulleygreenhouse.com.

Bow Wowvania Dogs dress up in costumes for trick-ortreating for bones/cookies. $5/pooch in advance. The Farm at Lee Martinez Park, 600 N. Sherwood, FC. 12noon-1pm.

221-6665, www. fcgov.com/thefarm.

Rialto Halloween Film Series: Young Frankenstein Dr. Frederick Frankenstein recreates his grandfather’s experiments and creates his own monster in Transylvania. $6. Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm.

962-2120, www.rialtotheatercenter.org.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28 Halloween on the Promenade Family festival with activity stations, pumpkins, goody bags, horse-drawn carriage rides, more. All ages. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, In front of Rock Bottom Brewery, 5971 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 12noon-3pm. 461-1285 www.ThePromenadeShopsAtCenterra.com.

In the Mood – Songs and Stories of the Greatest Generation Barbershop-style music from the 1940s and true stories of American women during WWII. Ages 13+. $15-adults, $10-children and students. Mackenzie Place Lodge, Mackenzie Place, 4750 Pleasant Oak Dr., 2pm and 7pm. 217-2445 www.theblendchorus.org.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 29 The Secret Life of Owls Learn the uniqueness and wonder these elusive raptors offer. Limited to first 50 people. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 3pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30 Young Artists’ Art Show Delightful works of art created by young artists in the various Poudre River Library District’s art programs. All ages. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 3:30pm.

221-6740, www.PoudreLibraries.org.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31 Rialto Halloween Film Series: The Shining A family visits isolated hotel where an evil spirit wreaks havoc. $6. Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm. 962-2120 www.rialtotheatercenter.org.

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time out Elementary relationships Do they really need to be so complex?

LEA HANSON

“M

om, I’ll allow you to invite one more person of your choice from my class to my birthday party,” my about-to-be-8year-old told me yesterday.

“Huh, well, it’s not my birthday party, so I actually don’t have anyone I’d like to invite. Is there someone that hasn’t yet been invited whom you’d like to invite?” I asked. “You tell me,” she said.

I can’t help but think there is someone I’m supposed to invite and I can’t read between the lines here. I’m baffled.

There’s clearly a secret someone she wants to come, so I asked her just that.

She said no. I asked if there are any more friends who are boys she’d like to invite and she said, “If you want to invite one more boy, you can, just tell me who.”

Okay, so clearly there’s a boy she’d like to invite but now I have to guess who this person is?

In the meantime, I get a birthday party RSVP text from another mom (of a boy) who says, “Oh, by the way, Ryan* says that Cameron likes your daughter, hahah.” Okay, so maybe I’m supposed to invite Cameron? There are two Camerons in her class. I ask her which one is her better friend and she says, “I’m not friends with either of them.” I give up.

I clearly remember liking boys in second grade—at least to the extent a second grader can like a boy. To me, this entailed thinking he was cute and liking when he talked to me and thinking of reasons to talk to him. My daughter hasn’t shared any stories of liking boys (or girls) yet so who knows where she’s at. In fact, I don’t even know yet if she might end up liking boys or girls. Actually, since we have gay families in our family as well as our friend circle, I make a point to not assume she’s straight. I actually asked her not too long ago, “Do 42

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you think you’re a person who will fall in love with a man or a woman when you get older?” to which she responded, after thinking for ten seconds, “I’m not sure I know that yet.” Huh. Kids are weird about relationships with other genders, I am finding. My daughter has some friends who are just freely friends with all genders and other friends who make every different-gendered interaction into a crush. Her dad and I both have strong friendships with people of different genders so we’re modeling a certain thing. She also has very few friends who are boys and the few she has she treats like she might treat a brother (constantly arguing, etc.).

So what’s my role in all this? I

suppose it’s simply to model healthy relationships and to be open to talking about romantic feelings when they start coming up. Whenever that is. Yet, it’s clear my daughter has no interest in telling me about people she might “like” and about people who allegedly like her. How do I open up and normalize this conversation? Plus, do I really want and need to know about my daughter’s private crushes—and eventual relationships? I don’t necessarily think I need to know everything. And yet I do?

The whole thing seems like it ought to be easy—elementary if you will. Yet, it’s actually some serious stuff. Maybe even AP level. *Names have been changed for privacy

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