RMParent November 2015

NOVEMBER 2015 • RMPARENT.COM

Family Activities FOR THE SEASON .........................................

SUPPORTING A

HEALTHY BODY IMAGE .........................................

Learn TO PAINT and draw

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Helping kids

TO COPE

WITH ILLNESS ......................................

Be kind!

PLUS:

BRAVO!

HOLIDAY EVENTS

GUIDE RMPARENT

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Neighborhood Toy Store Day!

Saturday November 14th 10-3pm Thank You for Supporting your family-owned, community toy store. Come join us for non-stop fun!

And visit Urban Blossom Fort Collins’ Only Tween Boutique!

Visit our Facebook page for more Holiday Events •www.facebook.com/clothespony

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Scrumptious Yarns and a fabulous staff to help you with all your knitting needs.

1408 West Mountain Ave. Fort Collins (970) 407-1461 mysisterknits.com Hours: Tues. 10 am to 8 pm , Wed. - Sat. 10 am to 5 pm .

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NOVEMBER 2015

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

Be kind, unwind—take time to be nice to yourself and those around you

WOMEN’S HEALTH . . . . . . . . 8 Combatting the looks-matter-most myth—Help your daughter—and yourself—break free from social bonds

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10

Quality time together makes for holiday fun—plenty of things to do with family and out-of-town guests

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12 Express yourself—painting and drawing classes teach students to communicate

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 Here to help—find emotional, financial and wellbeing support

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . . 16 Investing in your community—support local businesses for the holidays

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 4

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 4

Special Section BRAVO! Bravo!

HOLIDAY EVENT GUIDE

Holiday Event Guide

The holidays are here and there are so many ways to experience their cheer and northern Colorado is home to many triedand-true favorite holiday activities you won’t want to miss.

Features 18 KINDNESS IS

CONTAGIOUS

As a society, it feels like we’re increasingly becoming more and more rude and less kind. There are some organizations solely devoted to helping people learn to be kinder and there’s even research devoted to understanding the science behind being kind and conclusive evidence to suggest that kindness is contagious.

It’s just a phase—too much attention? Or not enough?

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Step by Step, Danielle Feeney named principal of High Plains School, Loveland Energy Challenge, Thank an Officer Day, French Exchange Program, Winona thank you letters

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Splashes and science experiments during River Week at CLP Middle School, students learn about mental health and peer support, Kinard receives National Blue Ribbon School award, calendar of events

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 District 6 hosts Legislative Tours for Great Education Colorado, regional USDA and CDE officials visit District 6, open enrollment to be held Nov. 2Dec. 18

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

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MAJOR ILLNESS When you get the news that a loved one

has been diagnosed with a major illness, life quickly gets thrown into chaos. With so much going on—doctor appointments, daily care, hospital stays—it’s easy to set aside your kids’ needs. Here are 5 ways you can help them cope.

ABOUT THE COVER: Drexler, 3 in December, likes Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, his new baby brother and eating his favorite foods. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective Be kind—unwind

Be nice to yourself and those around you

I

’m dating myself, here, which is OK… in fact, maybe I should start with: back in my day, sonny, we had these things called VCRs. They were actual rolls of videotape in a cassette that played in a VCR machine and when you were finished all the tape was on one side…the wrong side. When someone wanted to watch the video again, she would have to rewind it. On the counter at stores that rented videos there was a ubiquitous sign: Be kind— rewind…a nice altruistic plea with a specific suggestion of how you could be kind in a little way today.

So there’s the context for my theme here, which is: Be kind—unwind.

We are wound up, right? Busy, busy busy…too busy. It affects our health, our relationships, our worried minds…pretty much everything.

So the first person in your world to be kind to is…wait for it…yourself.

It has to start with you. Stop blaming yourself. Stop thinking you have to push, push, push to be good enough and smart enough and fast enough and skinny enough. We have a hard time giving ourselves a break. Lynn Nichols talks about this in her column (p. 8) about body image and tweens (and their moms). Relaxing with who you are and how you look is part of being kind to yourself.

Maybe we just need to slow down a bit. Maybe practice one day a week or one afternoon a week and see how it goes. Leave your schedule open and just go for a walk with no destination in mind and no agenda.

Kim Sharpe’s feature is devoted kindness and how to foster it in ourselves and our children…definitely worth a look. In another story by Kim, Express yourself (p. 12), she talks about how drawing and painting help kids pause and reflect. And Katie Harris advocates spending quality time with the family for the holidays by slowing down…with activities that help you connect. And one more…Lynn Nichols writes about supporting kids when a family member is ill, in her feature. One of the main points is to take care of yourself and another is to give your children some space.

So, anyway, I’ve noticed that when someone is kind to me, I’m more likely to be kind to someone else. It’s like tag…you’re it…be kind to the next person. Just as waves from a pebble thrown into a pond affect a distant shore or lily pad, so do our actions reverberate in ways we might not imagine. So let’s be the pebble and choose kindness.

Thanks, Scott

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NOVEMBER 2015 • Volume 20, Issue 6 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CALENDAR EDITOR Kim Sharpe calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt Sharon Klahn, Kyle Moyer COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Katie Harris, Lea Hanson, Lynn Nichols Kim Sharpe

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

RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2015 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

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women’s health

The looks-matter-most myth

Help your daughter—and yourself—break free from social bonds LY NN U. NICHOLS

E

verywhere a girl turns she gets the message that being pretty should be her top priority. It’s nearly impossible to avoid, despite our best efforts as parents. These social messages are ingrained everywhere from clothing to toys to movies to seemingly kind comments made in passing about our daughter’s looks.

So, what’s a parent to do to combat such strong social messages? Start by challenging the media on its false portrayal of how people look. Then reinforce that food is fuel, bodies have function, and beauty goes far beyond physical.

CALL OUT THE MEDIA! When looking through a magazine or watching a movie, poke fun at how false it all is. Explain how actors have whole crews to make them look great and that looking that way is nearly a full time job. Go online together and search “before and after pictures of models” and you are bound to see how ordinary looking people can be made to look amazing. Share the Dove Evolution video on YouTube that shows a model coming in looking a bit disheveled and the end shot of her looking flawless.

Today’s girls have the extra hurdle of navigating social media. Did you know there are photo apps that instantly “improve” how a person looks? Girls post these photos on social media and guess what? Your preteen compares herself and feels inadequate. Expose these tricks for what they are.

Tell her natural is beautiful and she doesn’t need to enhance, fix, and falsify anything to look acceptable. Reinforce real beauty shines from the inside out.

HELP HER USE HER BODY WITH PURPOSE One of the best buffers against media messages is to reinforce with your tween that our bodies have a function.

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It’s not there to be evaluated by others, it’s there to excel at a sport or school or any activity that brings her life meaning. It doesn’t matter what it is, find something your child is good at and focus on the confidence that it brings.

FOOD IS FUEL, NOT THE ENEMY! Here’s something fascinating you probably didn’t know: eating disorders are pretty much an American invention. A lot of research shows that there was no such thing as an eating disorder in other parts of the world until girls’ worldwide watched American television and got the message that ultra-thin is best.

Now we are seeing eating disorders in several countries.

Eating disorders get their punch from the belief that food is to be avoided—that it is literally poison. Food doesn’t nourish us, it makes us fat. The less we eat the better, and if we do become “weak” and eat, we need to purge to get rid of it. Of course, eating disorders go much deeper than that, but these are beliefs some kids who struggle with them have.

Make eating about health, not weight. Take every opportunity to teach kids what foods are healthy and what nutrients they hold. Eating well and the

self-care it embodies has a positive psychological effect on girls.

MODEL WHAT YOU WANT TO SEE IN YOUR DAUGHTER Last but not least, be a model (and not the overly skinny type!) for your daughter when it comes to a healthy body image. The actor Kate Winslet is quoted as saying, “As a child, I never heard one woman say to me, ‘I love my body.’

Not my mother, my elder sister, my best friend. No one woman has ever said, ‘I am so proud of my body.’”

Most likely you picked up some “rules” about food and bodies. Did your mom always lament about losing ten pounds or would she constantly diet or eat a tiny meal while she fed others a full dinner? Did your dad comment on women’s looks? Do you find yourself reliving these messages, even subconsciously? Do yourself and your kids a favor: catch yourself, and then do the opposite. When you want to give yourself a disgusted look in the mirror, smile.

When you feel ugly, find something you like and comment out loud. After all, your daughter’s healthy body image starts with you. And really, you are fine just the way you are—and so is she.

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family activities

Time together makes for holiday fun Plenty of things to do with family and out-of-town guests KATIE HARRIS

T

he final and most magical months of 2015 have snuck up on us again, with the last few leaves falling from trees preparing to brave the winter, the makings of Thanksgiving turkey and pumpkin pie lining grocery store shelves, and holiday lights once again being dusted off and strung from rooftops. The rush to prepare for the season is officially on. Amidst the hustle and bustle, the excitement and, at times, anxiety over checking and double checking that everything is in order for a smooth run at the holidays ahead, stopping to let it all sink in can get lost in the shuffle.

When we allow ourselves to slow down and appreciate the blessings we already have, the true magic of the season presents itself.

Whether you’re expecting visitors this season, or looking forward to a quiet holiday with family, give yourself permission to bump quality time together to the top of the priority list. The reward of a closer bond with your loved ones will prove so much more valuable than the perfect table setting or largerthan-life Christmas inflatable, and will send you into the new year with a full heart and rejuvenated soul.

At times, staying home, curling up under a blanket, and challenging the family to a board game or enjoying a holiday movie together can be the perfect way to spend a chilly November day. If the troops are feeling restless there are several options for seasonal entertainment suited to a variety of age groups so you, your family, and your guests can each find something up your alley.

Old Town Fort Collins, for example, offers a unique shopping experience with a spice shop, tea shop, pet goods store, and toy store, among others, to fulfill everyone’s holiday 10

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shopping lists. As you stroll through the streets of Old Town, you’ll discover several gourmet-dining options with chef-inspired menus including something for everyone’s palate.

Emerge from your dining experience to streets lit by thousands of strands of LED lights, which reappear for the season in early November.

If your family enjoys giving together you might consider offering a few hours or more of your time to a local nonprofit organization. Many local groups graciously accept volunteers of all ages on a commitmentand training-free basis. For example, Volunteers of America Northern Colorado Services is in need of volunteers to help sort, organize, label and pack items to help those in need in northern Colorado and worldwide.

Located in Loveland, the organization can be reached at 970-472-9630.

Reference their ad on volunteermatch. org. Boys and Girls Clubs of Larimer County are in search of volunteers to share their special talents with the children in their organization. If your

family includes an avid rock climber, gardener, chef, artist, or any number of other skills, sign up for a time slot by calling 970-223-1709 and bring the family out to support them as they make a difference in the lives of kids in our community.

For adventurous types, Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect outdoor playground. Sledders are welcome at Hidden Valley, a popular spot in the park with lengthy runs and plenty of snow this time of year. Snowshoes and cross country skis can be rented at Estes Park Mountain Shop, located on the left as your emerge from the canyon into Estes Park. Call 970-586-6548 to reserve gear ahead of time. The national park is a wonderland just waiting to be explored this time of year, and the possibilities for family adventure are endless.

Before you get wrapped up in the holiday hustle and bustle this month, pencil in some time for family togetherness. This magical season only comes around once a year—this year make it one you’ll never forget!

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learn and live

Express yourself

Painting and drawing classes teach students to communicate KIM SHARPE

Take a lesson, learn a lot

Anna’s Art Explorers Classes for kids in Loveland. 219-9506 or www.annasartexplorers.com Art Center of Estes Park Classes for all ages. 586-5882 or www.artcenterofestes.com Artists Association of Northern Colorado Classes and workshops held in Fort Collins for youth and adults. 682-4401 or www.artistsassoc.org Greeley Art Association Information about art classes in Greeley.

356-8593 or www.greeleyartassociation.org

I

n our hurry-up, digital world, it’s often not easy to take time to be reflective and use our hands to be expressive other than when we’re connected to a keyboard or some electronic device.

Enter art—specifically drawing and painting.

“Art is a great escape from the crazy technology that defines our world,” says northern Colorado artist Blake Neubert. “I love painting because it’s the lowest form of technology. It’s a visceral experience, yet it helps us tell our stories.”

Neubert was an at-risk youth who was in trouble a lot. He was introduced to art, and it became a creative outlet for him and a healthy way to connect to others. He has gone on to become an accomplished artist with his work featured throughout North America and China. He’s also been an educator who’s helped youth develop a positive self-identity through art.

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He feels art can: Help kids and adults learn how to express themselves without words.

“It teaches people how to communicate in a visual world.”

Provide a therapeutic outlet for people. Research shows that art activities help young brains develop. It supports cognitive, social-emotional and multisensory development, plus can provide opportunities for kids to feel a sense of accomplishment, which builds self-esteem.

Offer a healthy way to connect to others. Neubert says almost all artists were mentored by others and almost all want to be mentors themselves. “It’s a great way to plug into a welcoming community.”

Creative juices abundantly f low in and around northern Colorado, and there are many opportunities for people to drink from the fountain and discover themselves in new ways.

Juiced on Imagination Therapeutic art classes for children and adults in Fort Collins. 301-9695 or www.juicedonimagination.com City of Fort Collins-Recreator Find classes for the whole family in the Recreator. 221-6655 or www.fcgov.com/recreator City of Greeley Offering art classes for kids and adults.

350-9400 or www.greeleygov.com/ activities/culture-parks-and-recreation Loveland Museum/Gallery Offering a variety of art classes year round for children and adults. 962-2410 or www.cityofloveland.org Schissler Academy of Fine Arts Classical art instruction for youth and adults in Loveland. 667-9306 or www.schissleracademy.com VanCo School of Art Classical training in oil painting, figure drawing and more for children and adults.

430-5113 or www.vancoschool.com

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community news

Here to help

Find emotional, financial, and well-being support KIM SHARPE

W

hether you need help with child support issues, quitting tobacco, coping with losing a loved one or securing good food to eat, resources exist in Norco to help. For relaxation, there are some new multi-use trail sections to explore.

LARIMER COUNTY CHILD SUPPORT OFFICES MOVED Larimer County’s Child Support Offices, formerly located at 2601 Midpoint Drive in Fort Collins, recently moved to 1501 Blue Spruce Drive.

The reason for the move, according to Deputy Division Manager Laura Sartor, was to consolidate staff to be more inclusive in the Benefits Planning Division. “This [move] will allow for improved interactions within the division to serve the public more efficiently.”

Approximately 29 employees were re-located. Specific services impacted include: locating each parent, establishing paternity, establishing child support obligations and enforcing those obligations.

For questions, contact the Child Support Offices at 970-498-7600.

FOOD PANTRY OPENING IN GREELEY A “storefront CSA” is scheduled to open in downtown Greeley. The owners, Todd Doleshall and Glen Cook have secured the old “Book Stop” on 16th Street to house the Farmer’s Pantry. They are seeking community to finalize funding the venture.

Doleshall and Cook both grew up on ranches and now grow or raise all of their own food. They feel everyone should have access to fresh, healthy food year round, so have invested a large sum of their personal funds to open the new store.

“Recently, the last remaining supermarket in our downtown area closed, creating a ‘food desert’ for a large seg14

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ment of the community, so we’re trying to open this store to meet a community need,” says Doleshall. “We also want to offer up this space as a community gathering place that will have a coffee shop and commercial kitchen that will allow produce that reaches its shelf life to be repurposed into sauces and soups and then sold to the public.”

Through the Food Pantry, Doleshall and Cook want to: • Provide affordable, high quality, organic when possible, locally produced foods (farm fresh eggs, meat and vegetables), as well as local nonfood products.

• Serve as a distribution hub for local Community Supported Agriculture producers (CSAs), building a relationship between the area farmers and the community.

• Contract with food distributors to provide fresh produce and products on

a year-round basis. These will include basic necessities, baked goods, meats, nonperishables and local dairy products.

• Accept SNAP benefits.

• Provide a space for community education about sustainable agricultural practices and food preservation.

To contribute to this cause, visit www. gofundme.com/farmerspantry.

TAKE THE GREAT AMERICAN SMOKEOUT CHALLENGE Northern Colorado communities will celebrate the Great American Smokeout on Thursday, Nov.19.

The Great American Smokeout is an initiative of the American Cancer Society that encourages smokers to stop using tobacco even for one day. A small success with one day of quitting can lead to a life free from tobacco addiction.

Eliminating tobacco use can have almost

immediate benefits to your health. Only 20 minutes after your last cigarette, your heart rate and blood pressure drop and your circulation improves.

Many free resources are available to help Weld County residents quit tobacco. The first free resource is the Colorado QuitLine, a service offering free coaching and up to eight weeks of free nicotine patches or gum for callers 18 and older. Many people who have called the Colorado QuitLine report success when combining the coaching with nicotine replacement therapy. Call the Colorado QuitLine at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or register at www.coquitline.org.

For more information about what Weld County is doing to address the issue of tobacco use and prevention, come to the Tobacco-Free Coalition of Weld County meetings. Meetings are open to the public and are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month. For further details, visit www.TFCWeldCounty.com or call 970304-6470, ext. 2385.

Another free resource is the Quit For Life app, a mobile app to support you in your quit attempt. Find out more information at www.quitforlifeapp.com.

and program specialist. “The Worldwide Candle Lighting Vigil is a time to remember children who have passed away. The event is quiet, reverent and surprisingly uplifting. Last year, I found that attendees appreciated the chance to remember their loved one in both a private and social way. Not everyone chose to talk with others, but many did.”

The Angel Statue is one of approximately 130 in the world. It was made famous by Richard Paul Evans who wrote The Christmas Box in 1993. The book tells of a woman who mourns the loss of her child at the base of a stone angel, and a busy father who, after hearing her story, realizes what is most important—his children. Evans commissioned the original statue to be made at the request of many grieving parents. The angel has come to represent a parent’s deepest grief and greatest love.

A Fort Collins nonprofit, 3Hopeful Hearts has a similar Candlelight Tribute scheduled for Dec. 6. It will be held at the Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Drive, FC. Visit www.3hopefulhearts.com for more information.

POUDRE TRAIL GETS LONGER The Poudre Trail is 3.7 miles longer, thanks to two recently completed projects near Interstate 25.

The first project is a 3.1-mile section of trail west of I-25, from the Harmony Park-N-Ride through Arapaho Bend Natural Area to a loop around Rigden Reservoir. This new trail segment provides paved access through Arapaho Bend Natural Area and views of Rigden Reservoir.

The second project, a section of trail east of I-25 from Gateway Trailhead Park to Stonefly Court in Timnath, 0.6 miles, includes trailhead improvements (picnic tables, pavement and drainage features) and underpasses at Harmony Road and County Road 5. This new trail segment provides views of the Swetsville Zoo and access to the Poudre River.

The region-wide vision for a complete Poudre Trail from Laborite to Greeley is nearly complete with only about four miles of trail and an I-25 underpass remaining.

For more information, contact Jeffrey Boring with Larimer County’s Natural Resources Department at 970-619-4569.

MCKEE OFFERS OPPORTUNITY FOR GRIEF HEALING DURING THE HOLIDAYS On Dec.13, the McKee Medical Center Foundation will join the Worldwide Candle Lighting Vigil as part of National Children’s Memorial Day. The candle lighting vigil is part of a global event in which candles are lit in every time zone around the world at 7pm, beginning in New Zealand. For a 24-hour period, candles burn in remembrance of children who have died.

Family and friends are invited to attend the vigil. For those who would like to have a child’s name written on one of the luminaries that will light the pathway to the Angel Statue that will serve as the events centerpiece, please call 970-8202519 or email Mikaela.sandridge@bannerhealth.com by Dec. 10.

“The holidays can be a tough time for people who have lost a loved one and especially adults who have lost a child or children,” says Ashley N. Kasprzak, McKee Foundation fund development RMPARENT

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healthy living

Investing in your community Support local businesses for the holidays

LEA HANSON

START SMALL It’s hard to pass up a deal at a large box store or an online clearance event. However, making even the smallest change in shopping behavior makes a difference.

Consider making a goal of shifting at least 10 percent of your non-local purchases to a local business.

A

s the holiday season creeps in it is important to remember to support local business, the local economy, and our friends and neighbors as we prepare, plan, and purchase.

YOU’RE INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITY Dollars spent locally help build our local economy. For every dollar spent in northern Colorado, approximately 60 cents stays here recirculating and reinvesting in our community while only about 40 cents stays here when we spend a dollar at a non-local business. One of the biggest reasons this matters is the local taxes you pay. Everything from schools to roads, to downtown holiday décor depends to some extent on tax dollars. The less tax revenue that comes in, the less money there is to spend on things like infrastructure, services, and social programs.

LOCAL STORES HAVE WHAT YOU WANT By shopping locally you will likely have access to a broader array of items carefully chosen by those who know your community well because they live and work there.

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SHOW SUPPORT WITH MORE THAN MONEY Even if your budget does not allow you to spend a lot of money in locally owned stores, there are still plenty of ways you can support locally owned businesses throughout the holidays and all year long. Post, tweet, or Instagram about a new local find, a pastry from your local coffee shop, a dress at the neighborhood boutique, or the great customer service you had at your local bookstore. Further, say positive things about local businesses and leave positive reviews on online review sites. Finally, recommend your locally owned business to out-oftown guests and friends who live in different parts of the area; visitors and tourists always appreciate being steered towards establishments with a local flavor.

ADDITIONAL TIPS Use cash. Each time you buy something with a debit or credit card, the retailer pays a processing fee. These processing fees add up and small business can save/ make a lot more money if they can avoid paying them. Paying in cash can also help you stick to your spending budget.

Leave debit and credit cards at home and bring an envelope of cash you’ve decided to spend instead. Once your envelope is empty, you’re out of money and it’s impossible to spend more.

STAY CONNECTED. Most businesses use social media so it’s easy to engage and interact in these platforms. Get on their mailing lists and follow/like them on social media platforms you use to get the best deals, find out when sales are happening, and ensure you don’t miss a great opportunity to get something you will love while supporting your community.

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Kindness is

Contagious

Spread it far and wide Kim Sharpe

Be kind whenever possible.

It is always possible.

H ave you been honked at lately for not proceeding through an intersection the second a traffic signal turns green? Have you witnessed people being rude to a store clerk if an item doesn’t ring up at the expected price? Have you spoken harshly to anyone lately for no reason other than you feel frustrated about something totally unrelated to the moment?

As a society, it feels like we’re increasingly becoming more and more rude and less kind. It’s such a problem that there are some organizations solely devoted to helping people learn to be kinder. For example, KindSpring, the Pay It Forward Foundation and the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation

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—Dalai Lama

are organizations established to encourage people to be nice to one another.

They offer ideas on their websites about how people can practice kindness.

After learning about KindSpring’s efforts, rapper-activist “Nimo” Patel created the video, “Being Kind,” with the help of an intercontinental crew of volunteers. The video, which features footage from all over the world, including some of the children Nimo works with in the slums of India, quickly gained global fame. (You can watch and listen to the video on YouTube,

and hear its message about being kind, one small act at a time.)

There’s even much research devoted to understanding the science behind being kind and conclusive evidence to suggest that kindness is contagious. “When people benefit from kindness they ‘pay it forward’ by helping others who were not originally involved, and this creates a cascade of cooperation that influences dozens more in a social network,” says Inga Kiderra, director of Communications - Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities at

University of California San Diego.

With all the effort being poured into helping people treat each other well, we have to ask ourselves “why?”

Why is it so hard for humans to be nice to one another?

Carl Nassar, Heart-Centered Counseling director and licensed psychotherapist located in northern Colorado, says, “In today’s world, more and more demands are being placed on each of us. We are all multitasking to various extents, attempting to juggle work, finances, children, spouses, retirement packages, car repair, home care and the often forgotten self-care. Many times, many days, we end up overwhelmed by the demands of life.

As a result, we’re hurrying, in a state of anxiety, from one place to the next. Those places may be external, from the office to the bank, or internal, from one worry to the next. Anxiety and busyness trample over many things in life. But, most of all, they tromp over kindness.”

So what can we do to practice being kind more often, which hopefully will turn into a lifelong habit?

VOLUNTEER Volunteering to help others through formal channels has many benefits, including teaching us to have empathy for others.

America’s Promise, a national partnership dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth, asserts that “all children and youth need and deserve the chance to make a difference—in their families, schools, communities, nation and world— through having models of caring behavior, awareness of the needs of others, a sense of personal responsibility to contribute to the larger society, and opportunities for volunteering, leadership and service.”

Another national nonprofit, Help Guide.org, stated, “While it might be a challenge to coordinate everyone’s schedules, volunteering as a family has many worthwhile benefits. Children watch everything you do. By giving back to the community, you show them firsthand how volunteering makes a difference and how good it feels to help others and enact change. It’s also a valuable way for you to get to know organizations in the community and find resources and activities for your children and family.”

KINDNESS LESSONS Many northern Colorado schools devote class time to helping students be more kind. For example, some Thompson School District (TSD) middle and high schools implement the Check & Connect program. This intervention program trains volunteer community members to mentor students who are struggling with emotional and social issues, as well as academically—those deemed to be atrisk of dropping out of school.

being asked. Maybe it’s smiling at people you pass on the street and saying, “Hello.” Another simple way to show kindness is to be polite. Say “please” and “thank you,” and use a gentle tone of voice when speaking.

One of the primary goals of the program is to keep students in school and motivate them to graduate. Of the dropout prevention interventions reviewed by the U.S. Department of Education, Check & Connect is the only program found to have strong evidence of positive effects on staying in school.

Raquel Macias, TSD expelled and at-risk student services coordinator, explains that mentors meet with students once a week in the school setting. Beyond the positive academic results, “Mentors serve as role models for kids who haven’t learned how to react to certain situations with kindness. Mentors help them problem solve and have empathy.”

we let life’s fast pace overshadow that.

He says, “Reclaiming kindness is not so much the act of adding more kindness to our lives, because for all of us, there’s a kind heart waiting to be found, buried alive under the busyness.

Rather, creating kindness is more about the reduction of the busyness, the anxiety, and the distress, so that our natural kindness has room and space to bubble up, and to be experienced and expressed.

Of course, the task of reducing our stress in a world so full of demands is easier said than done…the key to stress-reduction comes from looking for the moments where we can slow our rhythm back down from the artificial rhythm of busyness to the natural rhythm of deep breathing, and from that place of deep breathing, we can take the time to communicate to ourselves and each other with vulnerability and humanness. The work for all of us is to slow down enough to remember who we are at heart.”

KEEP IT SIMPLE Another way to help others is simply to be observant and look for ways to lend a hand. It might be as simple as opening a door for someone or shoveling snow from a neighbor’s sidewalk without

LET IT BEGIN WITH YOU Imagine what our world would be like if everyone became more intentional about showing kindness to others. Nassar believes most humans are innately kind, but

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Five ways to help kids cope when a family member gets sick Lynn U. Nichols

W

hen you get the news that a loved one has been diagnosed with a major illness, life quickly gets thrown into an internal—and often external—sense of chaos. Everything else falls by the wayside and helping the person who is sick becomes number one priority.

But the rest of life doesn’t stop. You work, you have to keep the household running and you have to be there for your kids—all while dealing with your own emotions of worry and exhaustion. How on earth can you manage? Before anything else, identify people in your life who can help you carry the load. If you usually go it alone, now is the time to practice asking for help. The number of people who will step off the sidelines will likely surprise you. Let them.

Give clear directions on what you need and be okay with their assistance.

With so much going on—doctor appointments, daily care, hospital stays—it’s easy to set aside your kids’ needs. But you are a beacon sending a signal of concern and uncertainty, and they pick up on it even if you are good at hiding it. They need you to help them cope. Here are 5 ways you can help.

1. BE HONEST. “Without information, kids fill in 20

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the blanks and oftentimes what they make up in their heads is worse than what’s really happening. The unknown is anxiety-producing and scary. Even if the truth is hard to hear, it’s better than not knowing,” says Kathy Sigda, Child and Adolescent Psychologist with UCHealth’s Mountain Crest Behavioral Healthcare Center in Fort Collins.

Of course you should keep your child’s age and developmental stage in mind, but honesty is best. With young kids you will find they are often satisfied with the short answer.

“To a 5-year-old you can say, ‘Daddy is sick but we are doing what we can

to help him get better. Then name concrete ways the illness will affect her daily life. Maybe daddy will be home resting more, maybe there will be a machine that helps him breathe,” Sigda says.

For young kids, keeping their routine predictable is calming. As much as possible, maintain their normal routine with school, sports and activities.

2. ANSWER THE QUESTIONS THEY ASK. Be open to questions. It’s okay to say you don’t have the answer, but that you will share it when you do. Send the message that it’s okay to talk about it, then do it at their pace. Maybe they can only

listen 30 seconds before running off to play. That’s okay,” Sigda says.

She explains that young kids don’t always understand what they hear the first time so they might ask you the same question over and over again. Be patient and answer as often as needed.

She also advises keeping your conversations on the illness relatively short, but being open to having a lot of them.

With teens, you can be more frank and go deeper. You can give a more medical explanation and share some of your own feelings. Sit down and do research together. Listen as they voice their fears and let them know you are scared, too.

“We all feel worried and uncertain when someone we love is sick. It helps teens to know you feel the same way,” Sigda adds.

3. GIVE KIDS SPACE. Without time to process what they are feeling—or breaks away from the illness—kids start feeling pent up and overwhelmed. Just like we all do, they need chances to step off the spin of it all.

This can come in the form of a sleepover at a friend or family member’s house, having a person outside the family to talk to and letting kids have their own response without judging or tempering.

“Kids need to be allowed to have whatever reaction they are having, even it is pulling away from the sick person or showing anger about the illness,” Sigda says.

Kids need to hear the message that their needs are important too. If your child is being too loud in the house, resist phrases like, ‘Be quiet, you are disturbing your father!’ Kids can form crazy beliefs about sicknesses in the family—thinking at some level they are making it worse or even that they caused the illness in the first place. Instead, realize they need to be kids and suggest they take their loud play outside or set up other outlets for them to let off steam.

“It’s very helpful to have an adult outside the family for kids to talk to. Kids are very tuned in to their parents’ stress and they don’t want to add to it by bringing up their own concerns,” Sigda says.

4. STAY POSITIVE AS MUCH AS REALITY ALLOWS. This is where it gets tricky. You want

to keep your outlook positive without creating a false sense of hope or hiding hard truths. If you fall back on the ‘everything’s fine’ mantra kids feel your dishonesty because they know everything is not fine—by your actions, facial expressions and sighs—if not by your words.

“Yet to dwell on the chance of death is not helpful. Stay as positive as reality allows,” Sigda says.

Share hopeful news and how the doctors are helping. Focus on concrete ways the child can help their sick loved one and arrange one-on-one time with that person so she can stay connected.

“Medical situations are usually never certain. It’s okay to share this uncertainty and to say you are not sure what the future holds, but here is what the doctor is doing or saying,” Sigda says.

What if it’s terminal? Sigda advises telling your child that their loved one is dying when Hospice gets called in, and using Hospice family services to help.

“But if doctors are saying the person has six months to two years, I would not communicate that to a child. Teens who are researching may find out, but for younger kids who have a less exact sense of time, I wouldn’t. Predictions change. It’s better to wait until death is eminent,” she says.

5. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. As you likely know, caring for a sick person is one of the most stressful situations a person can endure. It’s vitally important that you do the same for yourself as you do for your kids—set up breaks away, find someone you can really talk to and who can give you lots of hugs and emotional support. Enlist friends and neighbors to run errands, do simple household tasks and cart the kids around. After all, to be the trunk that everyone is leaning on, you need sustenance to stay strong.

UCHealth sponsored this article.

Know someone that needs support?

Do you have a neighbor or friend with a chronic illness that’s trying to go it alone without much success? University of Colorado Health offers community case management at no charge for those who qualify. The program helps at-risk individuals who don’t have resources that are chronically or terminally ill and who are not eligible for other in-home services. Advanced Practice Nurses and Licensed Clinical Social Workers go into the home and help manage physical health problems, educate on the illness, provide emotional support and monitor progress.

To be eligible for case management services, patients must live in the Fort Collins, Windsor or Loveland areas and have a physician who is on the medical staff at Poudre Valley Hospital or Medical Center of the Rockies. The program has won the national Magnet prize for its ingenuity and impact.

UCHealth Community Case Management | 970-495-8554 | www.uchealth.org

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| 23

thompson school district news Principal of High Plains School named

Thompson School District is pleased to announce that it has named Danielle Feeney as principal of High Plains School. The school, located at 4255 Buffalo Mountain Drive in Loveland, is currently under construction and is scheduled to open in August 2016. Feeney’s first day of employment with the district was on October 5. As construction continues, she will assist with planning activities for the new school and will work extensively with the community to prepare for its opening.

Feeney comes to Thompson School District having served most recently as the K-5 principal at Twin Peaks Charter Academy in Longmont. She was promoted to lead the K-5 segment of the school after a successful experience as the assistant principal for the K-12 section.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from Purdue University and a Master of Arts in Special Education from East Stroudsburg University in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

“As a member of the Loveland community, I am especially excited and honored to be named the High Plains School principal,” Feeney said. “I am looking forward to meeting the parents and students who will have a chance to be the first members of the school. This next year will be a busy and exciting time for parents, students, staff and myself as we develop the vision and culture of 24

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Construction continues at High Plains School

Participants in the Loveland Energy Challenge

High Plains School. I also look forward to working with other Thompson School District educators. Every person I have met in the district has been so welcoming and eager to work together toward successful outcomes for all children.”

STEP BY STEP The construction of Thompson School District’s new High Plains School is progressing very well. Crews are working hard to finish the basic structure of the school and enclose it before winter weather arrives in order to be able to focus on interior work during the cold months. The project remains on track for a grand opening in August 2016.

LOVELAND ENERGY CHALLENGE A group of 4th and 5th graders in TSD are competing in the Loveland Energy Challenge, which is organized by the City of Loveland, oPower and SmartPower. It is a semester-long event and competition focused on teaching students about energy consumption and energy conservation. The challenge is a teacher-led classroom initiative at Ponderosa Elementary School and Lucile Erwin Middle School that will teach students how to become “energy smart” through education and friendly competition. Among those to address the group recently was Loveland Mayor Cecil Gutierrez.

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program called “Loveland-Strasbourg Amitiés,” where students from Strasbourg, France, and students from Loveland have an opportunity to learn about each others’ cultures and improve their language skills. Tanya Abert, a parent in Thompson School District, and Michčle Huntz, a teacher in Strasbourg, France, have teamed up to provide these fantastic global experiences for students. Now in its fourth year, French students have come to Loveland three times and district students have journeyed to France twice. This year, TSD students will travel to France.

“THANK AN OFFICER DAY” AT CBMS Conrad Ball Middle School held a special event in September called “Thank an Officer Day.” The CBMS students and staff thanked law enforcement members for all that they do and the positive relationship that they have with the school and TSD. Students lined the loop at the school and provided a bag to visiting law

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enforcement personnel that included a burrito, banana, bottle of water and a “thank you” card.

FRENCH EXCHANGE PROGRAM In August, 20 students from France spent two weeks in Loveland living with families and learning about American culture. The visit was part of a nonprofit international exchange

WES THANK YOU LETTERS Students throughout Winona Elementary School recently wrote letters to Loveland Police Department officers and Loveland firefighters describing how much they appreciate all that they do. Winona teacher Penelope Sanford used the letters to create commemorative books and then presented them to the agencies.

In addition, this past May, Winona Elementary students wrote 170 letters to military personnel at Fort Carson thanking them for their service and dedication to our country.

Way to go Winona!

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poudre school district news Splashes and science experiments Experiences like these also help the middle school students bond, forming tight relationships that last through high school and beyond, Hicks sys.

Students at Cache La Poudre IB Middle School explored their school’s namesake, incorporating the next-door river into each subject area.

While art classes found inspiration for drawings and English classes captured the scene in prose, two eighthgrade sciences classes waded right in early on a Tuesday morning.

“This is important because it helps us understand how the river works better,” eighth grader Oliver Deshayes says.

River Week has been a tradition at CLP for more than 20 years. In each grade, students explore different aspects of the local resource that’s so integral to life in the surrounding community.

“The benefit of getting out into the river is that kids actually get to be the scientist,” teacher Alisa Hicks explains. “Doing real experiments in the river is exciting.”

Decked out in thigh-high waders and sweatshirts, the kids laughed and shrieked at the cold as they set up experiments to test the velocity of the water. After measuring out the distance between two students standing in the water, the first sent an orange floating 28

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down the river and timed how long it took to reach the second student.

“Doing experiments outside is really fun because we actually get to do it firsthand and see what happens,” student Dani Davis says.

STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH, PEER SUPPORT STRATEGIES About 130 high school peer mentors from around the district gathered to learn how to best support the mental health of their student communities on Monday.

After teambuilding activities and a special presentation from a guest speaker, the teenagers attended breakout sessions like “Listening to Grief: How to Support Grieving Peers” and “Mental Health 101.”

“The subjects we’re dealing with are really heavy, but today made me feel empowered, not just sad — I’m ready to go help other people,” Paul Marrick, a senior at Fossil Ridge says.

Listening to a powerful presentation from the guest speaker about her journey after her son took his own life moved some students to tears. “Her story was so impactful,” Poudre High School Senior Cecelia Berkener says. “She grew

Students learn to support other students in their community.

stronger and could help other people—I learned that it’s good to take whatever happens to you and learn from it, no matter how sad it is.”

After lunch, the kids brainstormed together on how to bring their new knowledge back to their schools and communities.

They wrote down action ideas like, “Become an advocate and ally” and “Step up to check in on people, even strangers.”

They agreed to intentionally try to “spot warning signs” and “be a genuinely nice person.”

Many expressed their joy at meeting other like-minded peers and forming a network of support that spans all the city high schools.

“These students will leave here today equipped with skills and knowledge to help them make an even bigger impact on their building,” PHS counselor Cassie Poncelow says.

NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL AWARDED Kinard Core Knowledge Middle School earned recognition as a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, making it one of just six selected in Colorado.

Schools were selected based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. The award affirms the hard work of students, teachers, families and school communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content.

“We are very excited and honored to be a 2015 Blue Ribbon School,” Kinard principal Jesse Morrill says.

“This award is the result of all of the hard work put in by our teachers, support staff, students, parents, and community since Kinard’s doors opened in 2004. We have remained steadfast

PSD Calendar of Events Nov. 10 ....... 6 :30pm, Board of Education meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Avenue.

Nov. 13 ....... No School K-5 Nov. 24 ....... B oard of Education meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Avenue.

Nov. 25-27 .. No School

in our mission to ensure high levels of learning for all students, and this tremendous recognition certainly validates the work.”

Kinard is the first PSD middle school and the fourth PSD school to receive this special designation (Kinard’s Blue Ribbon School profile posted here). Other PSD National Blue Ribbon Schools include Kruse Elementary (2014 award), Traut Core Knowledge Elementary (2013 award) and Werner Elementary (2008 award).

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greeley-evans district 6 news Legislative Tours for Great Education Colorado

Great Education Colorado, an advocacy group for public education in the state, is hosting two Legislative Tours in Greeley-Evans School District 6 prior to the start of the 2016 Legislative Session in January.

The purpose of these tours is to educate lawmakers as well as community members about the opportunities and challenges facing public education today, especially in the area of finance. The first tour was Tuesday, October 13 at Greeley West High School. Rep. Dave Young attended, as well as about eight community members and members of the Board of Education.

The group learned more about Career Pathways, advanced learning opportunities for students, the Newcomer Program and facility challenges at Greeley West.

The next tour will be November 4 at Maplewood Elementary School and Heath Middle School.

8, touring the central kitchen and eating lunch with students at Prairie Heights Middle School.

USDA Food Nutrition Services spokesman David Von Behren said the USDA officials wanted to visit District 6 because it is a leader in the movement to provide freshly made, healthy food to students.

“When we see good, shining examples like this, we want to share it,” Von Behren said.

Nutrition Services Director Jeremy West and his team have changed the way District 6 students eat while they are in school. From highly processed foods to fresh fruits, vegetables and locally-sourced produce and meats, nearly everything students eat is healthy and made from scratch. District 6 has been recognized nationally for its nutrition program, and has continued to be an example for other school districts around the nation to follow.

REGIONAL USDA AND CDE OFFICIALS VISIT DISTRICT 6 Officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture visited Greeley-Evans School District 6 on Thursday, October

OPEN ENROLLMENT TO BE HELD NOVEMBER 2- DECEMBER 18 Greeley-Evans School District 6 offers students the opportunity to “open enroll” into schools outside of their

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neighborhood or home boundaries, and the district also welcomes out-of-district students into its schools. In both cases, families simply need to complete an Open Enrollment Application to begin the process.

The window for open enrollment requests for the 2016-17 school year will be from now through Dec. 18, 2015.

Open Enrollment Applications will be available in English and Spanish at every District 6 school office, at the district’s main office at 1025 9th Avenue, and at www.greeleyschools. org/openenrollment. Completed applications must be submitted by 4:30pm on Dec. 18, 2015, at the district’s main office, at your child’s current school, or at the school you are requesting your child to attend.

While the district is able to accommodate a majority of open enrollment requests, a student who requests enrollment in schools (or specific grade-levels in a school) that are at or above capacity may be put on a waiting list.

Students who are currently attending a school under open enrollment or transfer will automatically be reenrolled into the same school for the 2016-17 school year, and those parents do not have to complete a new open enrollment application. If, however, a parent wishes to enroll a child back in their home school for the 2016-17 school year, parents should complete a Discontinuation of Open Enrollment / Transfer Application and return it to their current school by Dec. 18. 2015.

These forms are also available in the locations listed above.

Open enrollment applicants will be notified in February of their application status. Parents of open enrollment students must provide transportation to and from their approved school.

For more information about open enrollment, please consult the District 6 website, www.greeleyschools.org/ openenrollment, or call 348-6265.

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lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT— Elementary student lunches are $2.45, secondary student lunches are $2.70 and reduced lunches are $0.40. Entrees offered daily: Elementary—a variety of fruits and vegetables, milk and juices; Secondary—hot and cold sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, deli salad and pizza.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2 Toasted cheese sandwich and tomato soup; BBQ chicken filet sandwich 3 Veggie lasagna; ranch chicken bites w/roll 4 Sweet & sour meatballs; fried rice 5 Beef tacos & cilantro lime rice; mac & cheese 6 BBQ or cheese pizza; egg salad sandwich 9 Potato bar w/chili; chicken nuggets 10 Spaghetti & meatballs; ham & cheese sub

11 Asian teriyaki rice bow w/chicken; hamburger/cheeseburger 12 Cheese or pepperoni pizza 13 No school!

16 Taco burger; mac & cheese 17 Cheesy chicken pasta bake; Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich 18 Asian noodles w/chicken; trout treasures 19 Beef burrito; chicken patty sandwich 20 Meat lovers or cheese pizza; chicken Caesar wrap 23 Hot dog; pulled pork sandwich 24 Turkey gravy & roll; mac & cheese

25- 27 No school!

30 Toasted cheese sandwich & tomato soup; BBQ chicken filet sandwich MIDDLE SCHOOLS 2 Pulled pork sandwich; chicken nuggets 3 Meatball sub; cheese ravioli 4 Asian bar 5 Beef & chicken taco bar 6 Smothered pork burrito; mac & cheese 9 Buffalo Joe sandwich; Southwest chicken sandwich 10 Veggie lasagna; chicken nuggets

11 Asian bar 12 Beef & bean burrito bar 13 Trout treasures; baked chicken & roll 16 Ranch chicken bites w/roll; mac & cheese 17 Cheesy chicken pasta bake; meatball sub 18 Asian bar 19 Beef & chicken taco bar 20 Chili cheese dog; potato bar w/chili 23 Philly cheesesteak 24 Turkey gravy & roll; mac & cheese 25-27 No school!

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT — Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2 Mini pancakes w/sausage patty; Caesar salad 3 Pizza stick; crispy chicken tender salad 4 Chicken patty sandwich; chef salad 5 Nachos w/cheese; taco salad 6 Fish nuggets; rips slush 9 Grilled cheese sandwich; Caesar salad 10 Pizza; chicken tender salad 11 Chicken breast strips w/mashed potatoes; chef salad 12 Chicken burrito bowl; taco salad 13 No school!

16 Grilled chicken sandwich; Caesar salad 17 Pretzel w/cheese sauce; chicken tender salad

18 BBQ sandwich; chef salad 19 Turkey w/gravy; garden entrée salad 20 Orange chicken; garden entrée salad 23-27 No school!

30 Chicken breast nuggets; Caesar salad SECONDARY SCHOOL 2 Chicken & waffles; grilled cheese sandwich 3 Pizza stick; grilled chicken sandwich 4 Sandwich bar 5 Nachos w/cheese; meat lasagna 6 Fish sandwich; spicy chicken patty sandwich 9 Grilled cheese sandwich; chicken fajitas 10 Pizza; spicy chicken patty sandwich

11 Chicken breast strips w/mashed potatoes; hot ham & cheese sandwich 12 Chicken burrito bowl; French bread boat 13 No school!

16 Grilled chicken sandwich; nachos w/cheese 17 Pesto pasta w/chicken; pretzel w/cheese sauce 18 Pizza bar; BBQ sandwich 19 Turkey w/gravy & mashed potatoes 20 Orange chicken; pizza stick 23-27 No school!

30 Chicken breast nuggets; BBQ sandwich

GREELEY DISTRICT 6 —To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.55, and middle school lunches are $2.80, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 3 Cheese ravioli w/bread stick; club hoagie 4 Chicken soft taco; PBJ sandwich 5 Pot roast w/dinner roll; ham & cheese hoagie 6 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 9 Mac & cheese w/roll; chicken salad sandwich 10 Bean & cheese burrito w/Spanish rice; green chili 11 Turkey meatloaf w/dinner roll; turkey & cheese wrap 12 Baked ziti w/breadstick; Italian hoagie 13 Chicken, bacon, ranch or cheese pizza; PBJ 16 Pork carnitas w/fiesta rice; chicken fajita wrap 17 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 18 Breakfast for lunch; PBJ

19 Chicken pot pie; ham & cheese hoagie 20 Chicken, bacon, ranch or cheese pizza; PBJ 23 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 24 Roasted turkey w/dinner roll 25-27 No school!

30 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap MIDDLE SCHOOL 2 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 3 Cheese ravioli w/bread stick; club hoagie 4 Chicken soft taco; PBJ sandwich 5 Pot roast w/dinner roll; ham & cheese hoagie 6 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 9 Mac & cheese w/roll; chicken salad sandwich 10 Bean & cheese burrito w/Spanish rice; green chili

11 Turkey meatloaf w/dinner roll; turkey & cheese wrap 12 Baked ziti w/breadstick; Italian hoagie 13 Chicken, bacon, ranch or cheese pizza; PBJ 16 Pork carnitas w/fiesta rice; chicken fajita wrap 17 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 18 Breakfast for lunch; PBJ 19 Chicken pot pie; ham & cheese hoagie 20 Chicken, bacon, ranch or cheese pizza; PBJ 23 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 24 Chili w/cinnamon roll; turkey & cheese wrap 25-27 No school!

30 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT — Price for elementary lunch is $2.65, for middle school students, $2.90. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2 Fish sticks; mini BBQ burger 3 Hamburger; PBJ w/string cheese 4 Taco; corndog 5 Rotini w/meatballs; PBJ w/string cheese 6 Big Daddy’s cheese pizza; turkey & cheese sub 9 Hot dog; mini BBQ burger 10 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; PBJ sandwich w/string cheese

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11 Chicken & black bean chili; corndog 12 Pancakes w/sausage patties; PBJ w/ string cheese 13 Cheese breadstick w/marinara; turkey & cheese sub 16 Chicken sandwich; mini BBQ burger 17 Mini cheese ravioli; PBJ sandwich w/ string cheese 18 Cheesy nachos; corndog 19 Turkey & gravy w/mashed potatoes; PBJ w/string cheese

20 Thin crust cheese pizza; turkey & cheese sub 23-27 No school!

30 Mac & cheese; mini BBQ burger SECONDARY SCHOOL 2 H & S chicken sandwich 3 Cheeseburger 4 Hard shell taco 5 Lasagna 6 Turkey club wrap

9 Wiener wrap 10 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice 11 Chicken & black bean chili 12 Pancakes w/sausage patties 13 Pepperoni calzone 16 Turkey BBQ sandwich 17 Rotini w/meatballs 18 Chili nachos 19 Turkey & gravy w/mashed potatoes 23-25 No school!

30 Mac & cheese

un F s ’ It shy l a r T a It’s cation Edu s ’ t I It’s the

Garbage Garage Larimer County’s waste & recycling education center at the Larimer County Landfill in Fort Collins

(970) 498-5772 larimer.org/solidwaste

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NOVEMBER 2015 ONGOING MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS THROUGH NOVEMBER 12 Powerful Tools for Caregivers This class helps family caregivers acquire ‘tools’ to increase their self-confidence, reduce stress and more. Dates, times and locations vary. 970-498-7758 or lmcgowan@larimer.org.

WEDNESDAYS THROUGH NOVEMBER 18 Buddy Reading The Kids Read game is designed to engage children in a fun reading experience while encouraging them to practice important reading strategies in an interactive way.

Loveland Library, Storytime Room, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4:30-5:30pm. www. cityofloveland.org.

THROUGH NOVEMBER 18 Speaking of Spanish A fun and interactive Spanish class for adults. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. $40. First United Methodist Church, 533 Grant Ave., LV. Beginner Spanish – 12noon-2pm, Intermediate Spanish – 9-11am. 970-481-2818 or www.speakingofspanish.com.

MONDAYS THROUGH NOVEMBER Repurposed Books Craft Class Create beautiful and unique gifts out of old books. Leave each class with a finished product. All supplies included in cost. $15 per class or $60 for five classes. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6-8pm. 970-484-7898 or www. oldfirehousebooks.com.

SUNDAYS THROUGH MID-NOVEMBER Fort Collins Farmers Market Vegetables, fruits, plants, flowers, meats, eggs, honey, baked goods, pet treats, specialty foods, more from about 40 vendors. ACE Hardware parking lot, 1001 E. Harmony Road, FC. 11am-3pm. www.fortcollinsfm.com.

SUNDAYS THROUGH NOVEMBER NaNoWriMo November is National Novel Writing Month. Attend one or all of these series of events throughout the month.

Old Town Library, Community Room Combo, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1pm. 970221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

NOVEMBER 6 THROUGH 13 Gallery of Trees This holiday tradition fills the art gallery

with holiday trees made by local artists and community members, all available for silent auction to benefit the Lincoln Center Support League. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. Gallery hours vary.

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

NOVEMBER 6, 8, 13 AND 14 Opera: Hansel and Gretel by Engelbert Humperdinck Based on the fairy tale from the Brothers Grimm, the opera tells the familiar tale of two children who happen upon a mysterious Gingerbread house in the woods and are captured by a Witch who wants to eat them. Ticket prices vary.

University Center for the Arts, Griffin Concert Hall, 1400 Remington St., FC. 7:30-9:30pm. 970-491-5293 or www. central.colostate.edu.

NOVEMBER 6 THROUGH JANUARY 13 Nativities Around the World Nativity scenes have been created and recreated for many centuries. This exhibit is one of the most eclectic international collections of nativity sets. Ticket prices and exhibit hours vary. Global Village Museum, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 970-221-4600 or www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

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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NEW STUDENT

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1 block south of Horsetooth Road, between Inner Strength Climbing Gym and Aamco Transmissions on West side of Mason Street.

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NOVEMBER 27 THROUGH DECEMBER 31 A Christmas Carol Based on the classic holiday tale by Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol is a heart-warming family story with largerthan-life characters that come to life on the stage. Ticket prices and show times vary. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Drive, Johnstown. www. coloradocandlelight.com.

NOVEMBER 28 THROUGH JANUARY 3 Celebrating the Season: The 13th Annual Holiday Art Exhibition The show features work created by Cultural Arts Council visual arts members. Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park, 423 W. Elkhorn Ave., EP. Exhibit times vary. 970-586-9203 or www.visitestespark.com.

NOVEMBER 7 AND 8 A Winter Marketplace The Marketplace features artisans displaying handcrafted items that are perfect for holiday gift giving. $3-adults, $1-children. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 10am-5pm. 970-2216730 or www.lctix.com.

NOVEMBER 14, 21 AND 28 Winter Farmers Market Support local farmers even in winter!

This market is held select weekends until April. Opera Galeria, 123 N. College Ave., FC. 9am-1pm. www. nocofoodcluster.com.

NOVEMBER 14 THROUGH DECEMBER 27 A Tuna Christmas “A Tuna Christmas” takes place in fictitious Tuna, Texas. How can only two actors make fun of such a big state?

Quite easily, as you’ll see. Ticket prices and show times vary. Bas Bleu Theater Company, 401 Pine St., FC. 970-4988949 or www.basbleu.org.

NOVEMBER 20 THROUGH 22 Shrek The Musical Experience the magic of quality, live musical theatre through this popular ogre of a tale. Ticket prices and show times vary. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

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NOVEMBER 21 AND 22 Estes Park Holiday Market Many unique and one of a kind items for your holiday shopping. Estes Park Conference Center at Rocky Mountain Park Inn, 201 S. St. Vrain Ave., EP. Market times vary. www.visitestespark.com.

NOVEMBER 27 AND 28 Catch the Glow Parade and Weekend Celebration View this whimsical holiday parade, spend the afternoon visiting Santa, enjoy hayrides and strolling through downtown Estes Park. Event times and locations vary, EP. www.visitestespark.com.

NOVEMBER 27 AND 28 Holiday Artisan Market Approximately 100 artisans and crafters share their handmade creations at one of the largest craft fairs in the area. Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Drive, FC. 10am4pm. 970-224-6033 or www.fcgov.com.

NOVEMBER 27 THROUGH DECEMBER 5 28th Annual Festival of Trees This exciting annual event features beautifully decorated trees, a silent auction, kids’ activities, live performances and special events. $2-adults, $1-children. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 1-5pm. www.ucstars.com.

THURSDAYS THROUGH DECEMBER 10 Gallery 101 This fun and exciting 12-week program provides an interactive education and prepares you to become a Museum tour guide. Prices vary. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 5-7pm. 970-962-2410 or www. lovelandmuseumgallery.org.

FRIDAYS THROUGH DECEMBER 11 Friday Morning Tot Art Let your young artist explore the world of art. A parent or guardian must accompany the child during the session.

Ages 3-6. Registration required. $10 ($8 for museum members). Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10:30-11:30am. 970-962-2410 or www.cityofloveland.org.

THROUGH JANUARY 5 Bike Winter Photo Contest Snap a photo of your first winter ride and submit it to info@ bicycleambassadorprogram.org. Photos with most “likes” on the FC Bikes Facebook page will win cool prizes!

Photos are due Jan. 5. www.fcgov.com/ bikewinter.

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• Individual & small-group instruction • After-school and weekend lessons • Boarding & training • Safe, trained horses and ponies • Indoor & outdoor arenas • Emphasizes horse and child connection

970-443-5467

Dr. Margot Nacey, Owner, Lic. Clinical Psychologist#1716 Molly Brame, Instructor, USHJA Certified

3833 W. County Road 8, Berthoud • gargotfarm.com

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YEAR ROUND AVAILABILITY Tree Trunk Activity Lessons For classroom, family or daycare. Arborthemed lessons about trees for Pre-Kmiddle school. Two arbor-themed kits available. Refundable deposit upon check out. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Discovery Zone Root viewers, explorer tables, garden tools, tames and activities. Open to all ages. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Saturdays – 10am12noon, Sundays – 12noon-2pm. 970416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Dia De Los Muertos: A Cultural Celebration Learn about the history of this event. Enjoy food and traditional entertainment.

Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1:304:30pm. www. cityofloveland.org.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Prairie Journey Author Frances Jenner will discuss her book, “Prairie Journey” and share her knowledge of how pioneers lived and traveled across the West.

Carbon Valley Library, Meeting Room, 7 Park Ave., Firestone. 4:30-6:30pm.

1-888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 TeaInk Enjoy tea, a snack and some creative writing challenges. No writing experience required, just an open mind.

Grades 6-12. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4-5pm. 970-962-2548 or www.cityofloveland.org.

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Dori Butler’s Ghost at Fire Station and Spooky History Talk Meet Dori Butler, author of the kids’ book series The Haunted Library and learn about the crazy history of Fort Collins’ first firehouse. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6-7pm. 970-484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Light Up the Night Did you know that front lights are required on bicycles at night? Are you in need of a light or replacement batteries? Stop by the event for free bike lights (while supplies last). Eldora Pool Ice Center, 1801 Riverside Ave., FC. 6-8:30pm. www.fcgov.com/fcbikes.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Money Matters Everyone has an approach to holiday spending. Are you a Grinch or a Giver?

Learn specific tips and resources to expand shopping savvy while reducing spending stress. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 6:30pm, 1-888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Cycling in Winter Learn tips and techniques to ride safely, confidently and comfortably in the colder seasons. Topics include what to wear, what to ride, safe winter bike handling, route selection and winter bike maintenance. Ages 14+. Eldora Pool Ice Center, 1801 Riverside Ave., FC. 6:30–8:00pm. www.fcgov.com/recreator; course number: 409593-03.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Standing Tall: What Do You Stand For? An engaging two hour workshop focusing on ethical leadership. To date, thousands of government, business and community leaders have participated in the Standing Tall program.

Foundations Church, 1380 Denver Ave., LV. 9-11am. smorales@ honservice.org.

Gratitude Journals Kick off the month of Thanksgiving by making an awesome gratitude journal and learn tips on how to put it to good use. Registration required. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-962-2548 or www. cityofloveland.org.

Family Movie Night: The Little Engine That Could The Little Engine must face her fears and leave Dreamland to deliver toys to the children all over the world (G).

Carbon Valley Library, Meeting Room, 7 Park Ave., Firestone. 6-7:30pm. 1-888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Noches en Familia Enjoy a time of stories, crafts and songs in Spanish. It doesn’t matter if you are a fluent Spanish speaker or are just interested in listening to the Spanish language, this is the place for you! All ages welcome. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 5-6pm. 970221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Loveland Loves Origami This activity is taught by Janet Deen, retired school teacher and member of Origami USA. Loveland Library, Children’s Study Room, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. Class times vary. www. cityofloveland.org.

MakeIt Teens: Canvas and Cocoa Learn how to paint a picture through step-by-step instruction. Cocoa will be provided. Aprons will be supplied; however, wear clothing that could get paint on it. Registration required.

Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 1pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Loveland Public Library’s 1st Annual Local Authors Showcase Local area Authors have been invited to meet, talk with and sell their books to the public for the day. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1:30-4:30pm. www.cityofloveland.org.

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Book Signing with Darla Roselle Meet Darla Roselle, author of the teen novel The Cobalt Domain. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 2-3pm. 970484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Create Natural Lip and Hand Balms Learn how to make your own lip and hand balms with a variety of beneficial essential oils to create your personal scent. Materials, containers and recipes provided to take home one of each. $25. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 2-4pm. www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Holiday Lighting Ceremony Thousands of strands of holiday lights will illuminate historic Downtown Fort Collins as they “flip the switch” at the annual Downtown Holiday Lighting Ceremony. Oak Street Plaza, Oak St. and College Ave., FC. 6pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Cosmic Costume Skate Do you want another chance to wear your Halloween costume? Arrive dressed up and receive a free skate rental.

Costume contest from 7:45-8pm. Prices vary. Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. 7:15-8:45pm. 970-350-9402 or www. greeleygov.com.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9 An Evening with David Sedaris Experience the hilarious brilliance that created the national bestsellers: Naked, Me Talk Pretty One Day, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, When You Are Engulfed in Flames and Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk. $65. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 7:30pm. 970-2216730 or www.lctix.com.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Special Dance Recital Story Time Picture book author Natasha Wing leads a very special story time about dancing.

Tutus and costumes are encouraged!

Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC.10:30-11:30am. 970-484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

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Robotics This class will offer an introduction to EV3 Robotics with hands-on building and programming in a non-competitive environment. Registration required.

Ages 8-17. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4-6pm. 970-962-2548 or www.cityofloveland.org.

How To Boil a Frog and Deep Green A Mindful Movie event to promote environmental awareness. Recycled Cycles, 4025 S. Mason St., FC. 7pm. www. fcgov.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Jeopardy Challenge your peers to the following categories: Zodiac Signs, Foreign Languages, Greek Mythology, and Football! Registration required.

Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-962-2548 or www.cityofloveland.org.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13 School’s Out Day Camp for Teacher Workdays Pack a lunch and enjoy a day filled with a wide variety of activities. Registration required. $45 per child. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9am-4pm.

970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Warren Miller’s Chasing Shadows Explore what it means to be inspired, and what it is about exotic locations and snow-covered summits that keep people searching for more. Winter starts with Warren Miller. $16. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 6:30pm and 9:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Smart Cycling Gain confidence to ride safely and legally in traffic or on trails. Learn onbike handling skills, crash avoidance techniques, and how to conduct bicycle safety checks. Ages 14+. Westbridge Medical Suites, 1107 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 8:15am–4:30pm. www.fcgov.com/ recreator; course number: 409590-02.

Super Hero Day Head to Old Firehouse Books for their first annual Super Hero party!

Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 10am. 970-484-7898 or www. oldfirehousebooks.com.

Tiny Yoga for Preschoolers Little ones will love this fun yoga class taught by Priscilla Welch, RYT, certified yoga instructor. Erie Community Library, Storytime Room, 400 Powers St., Erie.

10:30-11am. 1-888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Robokids Hands on robotics for kids ages 4+.

Working together and sharing will be emphasized as much as being inventive and creative. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1-2pm. www.cityofloveland.org.

Canvas and Cocoa Enjoy an afternoon of painting with acrylics on canvas and sipping cocoa.

Please wear an old shirt that can get paint on it. Space is limited. Grades 1-5. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 1pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Book Signing with Gabi EndressBalhiser & Kait Evesen Meet author Gabi Endress-Balhiser and illustrator Kait Evesen, creators of the Dittle Little Lion and Dittle Little Bear picture books. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 2-3pm. 970-484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Book Signing with David Brown Meet David Brown, author of Outskirts Press’ bestselling Daddy Had to Say Goodbye. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 2-3pm. 970-484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

TUESAY, NOVEMBER 17 Native American Music and Dance Attend this exciting presentation of traditional music and dance by the Iron family, a family dance troupe featuring three generations of dancers. Old Town Library, Community Room Combo, 201 Peterson St., FC. 970-221-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

Youth Workshop Series with Toby Take a look at how our sun affects the change of seasons and how the stars help us understand our planet’s journey around the solar system. Ages 6-12. $3. Global Village Museum, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 970-221-4600 or www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Game Day @ Your Library Play a board or card game from the collection (Settlers of Catan, Pandemic, Munchkin Fu and many more!) or bring a favorite from home. Old Town Library, Community Room 1, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Minute To Win It Are you brave enough to join your friends at the Library for a wild evening of fun challenges? Ages 9+. Clearview Library, 720 Third St., WS. 6:307:30pm. www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Stress and Relaxation: Don’t Let The Holidays Get You Down Learn biofeedback techniques to help manage stress levels, as well as some of the best herbs and essential oils to help support your system during stressful times.

Registration required. $25. Golden Poppy Herbal Apothecary, 212 S. Mason St., FC. 6:30-8pm. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20 OboeRAMa OboeRAMa brings oboists of all ages and playing experience together for a day of oboe activities. Registration required. $30. University Center for the Arts, 1400 Remington St., FC. 9am-5pm. www.uca.colostate. edu.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Brown Bag Lunch Movie - Disney’s “Descendants” The trouble-making offspring of villainous Disney characters get a chance at redemption when they are freed from the forbidden Isle of the Lost (G). Old Town Library, Community Room Combo, 201 Peterson St., FC. 12noon-2pm. 970-224-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26 5K Turkey Trot Join the Annual 5K Turkey Trot.

Registration required. No entry fee is required, however, donations accepted to support the YMCA Day Camp Scholarship Program. YMCA of the Rockies, 2515 Tunnel Rd., EP. 7am. 970586-3341 or www.visitestespark.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Skate Your Turkey Off Too much turkey at Thanksgiving? Head to the Greeley Ice Haus and skate off those extra pounds. Free skate rental with donation of two non-perishable food items. $3. Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. 12noon-5pm. 970-350-9402.

Mockingjay Part I Celebrate opening day of Mockingjay Part II by refreshing your memory on what happens in the first movie (PG-13).

Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4-6pm. www.cityofloveland.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Tree Lighting Ceremony Light up the season in Estes Park at the 5th Annual Estes Park Tree Lighting Ceremony. George Hix Riverside Plaza, Riverside Drive and Elkhorn Ave., EP. 5:30pm. www.visitestespark.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22 Thanksgiving Harvest of Stories “Tellabration” The Northern Colorado Storytellers will celebrate the season with a feast of funny tales. Erie Community Library, Living Room, 400 Powers St., Erie. 4-5pm.

1-888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Movie and a Craft: “The Emperor’s New Groove” Watch “The Emperor’s New Groove” (G) and then make a fun craft after the film to take home. Erie Community Library, Meeting Room, 400 Powers St., Erie. 2-4pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Holiday Heritage Open House Check out the Greeley History Museum’s great exhibits, participate in various children’s crafts and enjoy lots of holiday cheer. Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St., GR. 10am-4pm. www. greeleymuseums.com.

10th Annual Historic Skate Help recreate Lincoln Park and bring it inside the Ice Haus. Free admission with donated new toy. $4. Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. 7:15-9pm. 970-3509402 or www.greeleygov.com.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Greeley Lights the Night Parade and Lincoln Park Tree Lighting Bring the family downtown for a whole day of holiday fun. Enjoy the Holiday Open House, Greeley Lights the Night Parade and the Lincoln Park Tree Lighting. 10am. Downtown, GR. www. greeleydowntown.com.

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time out

It’s just a phase…

Too much attention? Or not enough?

M

y child—who’s an only—has been pretty rude lately. Baby talking, talking back, yelling and throwing fits, and so forth. In many ways it’s par for the course for an almost-5-year-old. In many other ways I need it to end as soon as possible.

As is also par for the course with parenting, the more you read online about what’s wrong with your child, the less you wish you would have. Much of the unofficial research we’ve been doing presents us with one common theme: she’s trying to get attention. On one hand, this means the problem is with us since we’re (evidently) not giving her enough. On the other hand, she’s an only child, so we often try to NOT shower her with attention.

We’ve all seen sad, neglected children acting out because negative attention is better than none at all. We’ve all also seen spoiled, rotten children acting out because they get so much attention they believe they’re the only person in the world who matters. So, Internet, which one is my child?

I realize the true answer—for me and most other people, probably—is somewhere in the middle. And that sucks because there doesn’t ever seem to be clear answers for people who fall in the middle. Just like when I try online diagnostics for my kid’s rash or bug bite, it always ends in her probable death, when I try online diagnostics for my child’s behavior problems, it seems to always end in something along the lines of ‘she’s a sociopath.’ So, being very confident my child is definitely not a sociopath I’m left to my own devices.

Of course, some of this is my fault.

Children’s behavior is almost always SOME level of reflection of their parents’ parenting. I’ll own this. I’m too often distracted and busy. I need to be more patient. I need to set my work

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LEA HANSON

aside. I can do all these things and my child is still, well, 5 years old.

Far before I had my own kid a friend said something like, “Just remember, everything (EVERYTHING) is a phase.” So, right now I’m holding onto that pretty tightly. I know deep down my child is a good kid. Whatever that means. We take great care of her.

We listen to her, we read her a million

books, we play with her. We give her rules. And, we most often have lots of fun together. She’s got a sassy personality; no one’s denying that. It’s just that I’m appreciating it less lately. I just hope I don’t need to wait 15 years before I think her sassiness is cool again.

All I want is a list of things to do or not to do. Alas, if only parenting were that easy.

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Neighborhood Toy Store Day! Saturday November 14th 10-3pm

Thank You for Supporting your family-owned, community toy store. Come join us for non-stop fun!

And visit

46

Visit our Facebook page for more Holiday Events

www.facebook.com/clothespony | RMPARENT

Urban Blossom

Fort Collins’ Only Tween Boutique!

(970) 224-2866 |111 N. College Ave.