RM Parent Magazine | December | 2023

NOVEMBER 2023 • RMPARENT.COM

The gift of learning to give Cooking and baking with kids

Create gifts from the heart December in Big Sky Protecting those peepers

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contents

DEPARTMENTS 6 Perspective

‘Tis the season

8 Family

Health

Protecting those peepers, preventive care, healthy habits=healthy eyes

10 Family Fun

Create gifts from the heart, local crafty classes, events with crafting, craft resources

12 F avorite Things

Cooking & baking essentials for small hands

14 Family

Travels

Road trip: Christmas in Big Sky Montana

28 C ommunity news

Youth community paint day, scholarship, free tutoring and survey on waste diversions

30 C alendar

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

36 Time

out

Gossip vs. appropriate sharing

FEATURE 18 The gift of learning to give

Giving doesn’t have to be just for holidays. Look for daily ways of giving to others. Show kindness to strangers when you are out and about. Contribute to your family by doing chores. Make giving a part of everyday life.

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Perspective

SCOTT TITTERINGTON

‘Tis the season IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR! I guess we could say about any time of year, but we seem to say it about now. We seem to say it like this though: ‘Tis the season. And that begs the question: The season for what?

FIRST THE HOLIDAYS Well, let’s think of this for moment. I’ll start a list.

‘Tis the season to be thankful for what we have.

‘Tis the season to connect with family and friends.

‘Tis the season appreciate how much we all have in common even though we have different traditions.

‘Tis the season to smile at strangers and say something nice.

‘Tis the season to eat lots of tasty food and enjoy the moment.

‘Tis the season to reflect about our relationships and our choices.

It’s also the season for some tougher things.

‘Tis the season to stress.

‘Tis the season of short days and long nights.

‘Tis the season of loneliness for some.

‘Tis the season when family issues boil over.

‘Tis the season to gain weight.

‘Tis the season the excessive consumerism and consumption.

NEXT, THE ACTUAL SEASON…WINTER From a descriptive view, when we say: ‘Tis the season.

What season? Well, winter…pretty straight forward, right?

So we can look at winter as cold, dark and boring, where we just try to get through it until the tulips start to poke out. We hunker down inside and motivate to face the cold when we have to.

Or we can choose to have fun. We can discover new games and set aside some family time. We can focus on cooking and eating together, maybe visit family a little more. Winter is so nice because, after the holidays of course, the pace seems to slow down from the hectic pace of summer.

AND FINALLY…THE SPIRIT When we strip away all the mess, this is the season of generosity, where we get to practice giving freely and receiving graciously. It’s a funny paradox that we receive what we give. If we give smiles and warmth, oddly enough we receive those too. If we give out bah-humbug, guess what? When was Scrooge happiest? Not sitting alone counting his money, that’s for sure.

I invite you to read Lynn Nichols story about helping your kids learn the power of giving, and how it connects them with the ones they love. She also shows how having a generous heart and showing it through positive actions toward others often leads to happiness and wellbeing.

I hope you have a wonderful season—that your holidays are merry, and your winter is fun.

Scott

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DECEMBER 2023 • Volume 27, Issue 7 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Harting susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com COVER PHOTO

istock photo

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson Katie Harris, Lynn U. Nichols

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not constitute 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. ©2023 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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Family Health LEA HANSON

Preventive care for eyes VISUAL HEALTH IS CRUCIAL for all aspects of life including seeing, learning, and enjoying life to the fullest. Protect your child’s eyes and developing vision to set them up for the best vision possible and eye health that will last a lifetime.

Schedule regular eye exams EYE DOCTORS RECOMMEND bringing your child in for an eye exam from as early as six months of age. During an infant eye exam, the doctor will begin to track the baby’s vision development, enabling early detection of any ocular or vision anomalies. If a problem is detected, early treatment can help to stop the progression of any disorder and will often mean faster and less invasive treatment.

As your child grows older, it is important to keep up with their eye exams— they are due for a second exam when they turn 3 years old, and a third exam before they begin kindergarten.

Know your family history MANY EYE CONDITIONS are hereditary.

If anyone in your family has been diagnosed with an ocular condition or vision disorder, your child is at a higher risk of developing them as well. Discuss your family history with your child’s eye doctor and keep up with their regular eye exams, or as directed by your doctor. This will ensure that any conditions that may arise will be detected and effectively managed before the condition progresses.

Protect eyes from harm

SUNGLASSES PROTECT eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Excessive exposure to UV radiation over time has been linked to serious ocular diseases later in life. Get sunglasses with 100-percent UV protection. Sunglasses sized for children are available everywhere and don’t fall off during play.

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Limit screen time THE AMOUNT OF TIME children spend on computers, tablets, smartphones, and watching TV can be harmful for your child’s eyes, causing blurry vision, focusing problems, and may even increase their risk for developing myopia.

Healthy habits=healthy eyes HEALTHY VISION DEVELOPMENT is heavily influenced by food.

Sugar, processed foods, and foods that lack a complete and diverse nutrient-dense profile can hinder eye and brain development in humans.

Try to incorporate as many fruits and vegetables (yes, even broccoli and cauliflower) into your child’s diet. Fruits and vegetables contain many different vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain healthy eyes and vision.

Spend time outdoors SPENDING AT LEAST an hour outside every day is vital to your child’s health and also lowers kids’ risk of ocular conditions, such as myopia. Playing outdoors, or even just taking a walk, will help the muscles in their eyes to relax.

Children spend hours of their day doing near vision activities: reading, devices, building puzzles, and even playing with toys. In near vision, our eyes converge, and we use focusing muscles. When these near vision activities are performed for extended periods of time, eye muscles become fatigued.

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Family Fun

THERESA BAER

Create gifts from the heart KEEP YOUR CHILDREN’S’ hands and minds busy this month with creative projects they can enjoy or share with loved one for any special occasion.

Local crafty classes Local libraries offer free classes for all ages each month with full event calendars found on their websites under Events. Craft-specific highlights this month at Poudre Libraries include photo display take-and-make kits and a card print-making cards class for tweens and teens. High Plains Library District offers Crafterschool and Crafternoon sessions for various age groups plus a DIY snow globe class and even a wood carving classes for ages 16 years and up. Loveland Library has an Inspire, Explore, Create session for tween/teens to make fancy paper snowflakes, origami ornaments,

finger knitted garlands and more. Windsor’s Clearview Library offers several options for all ages including Getting Crafty, Teen Crafta-ton for DIY gifts and a Family Art Challenge. Typically supplies are included in library events.

City recreation departments also have classes for all ages. In Fort Collins this month, you’ll find the You and Me Clay Series has ornament making for parents with kids ages 2.5 through 12 years as well as a Family Raku Workshop Paint & Fire.

Loveland Museum offers classes for all ages including kid+adult sessions. December’s lineup includes snowflake tapestries and printmaking, wool felted creations, pinecone ornaments and more. Visit www.thelovelandmuseum.org for details and to register in advance.

Special events with crafting

Online and craft retailer resources A quick search online will yield many great ideas for all ages from painting projects, salt dough creations, jewelry-making, weaving, beading and much more. Michaels, the local craft store, also offers several free one-hour virtual classes on Zoom for kids. Visit www.michaels.com/classes to see the list of classes for holiday placements, squeegee art, winter workshop and more.

You can also find all kinds of craft kits for all ages at local retailers like Michaels, Joann, and Target.

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Greeley Creative District is offering Makers’ Workshops on Saturday, December 9 as part of Greeley’s Winterfest celebrations. Participants can create cards, ornaments, decorations, drinks, food and more. Learn more at www. greeleydowntown.com/special-events/ downtown-greeley-winterfest.

In Estes Park, join in the Winter Wonderland Celebration on December 16 and 17 for family-friendly fun including magical crafts, games, prizes and surprises!

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Favorite Things

LEA HANSON

Cooking & baking essentials for small hands ONE OF THE BEST WAYS to help children learn to eat healthy is to teach them to cook and bake.

Learning their way around the kitchen helps kids learn about nutrition, where food comes from, and helps them understand what it takes to create delicious and nutritious food. Even better, cooking and baking lets kids contribute to the family, get a better understanding of math and science, boosts their self-esteem, and lets them explore their creativity.

Kids aged 6 to 8 can start to learn the basics of using a stove and oven; turning burners on and off as well as how to set the oven temperature for baking. By 8 years old, many kids are ready to try a real chef’s knife with supervision. By age 10, if they’ve been introduced to smaller steps and skills along the way, they’re likely ready for most run-of-the-mill recipes.

Silicone Baking Molds Price Under $10 Find at: The Cupboard, 152 S College Ave, Fort Collins; Any Craft Store (JoAnn’s, Michaels, etc.)

Baking molds can be used to make cute, seasonal chocolates, mini cakes, and much more. Even though they typically produce fairly simple and basic treats, they are for kids who are excited by mixing colors (especially white melting chocolate) and making tasty bite-sized treats. Using molds for mini cakes and cookies are fun and they can experiment with food coloring and decorate with frosting and sprinkles.

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Kid-Safe Knives by Handstand Kitchen, $20 Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys, 111 N. College Ave, Fort Collins You may be surprised to find knife skills suggested for such a young age group, but it’s arguably one of the most important skills to master. A 3-year-old can practice knife skills, especially if you’ve got a set of kid-friendly knives just for them. This set teaches proper hold and are durably crafted for real kitchen use. The set includes one large, one medium, and one small, serrated knife. Widely dispersed serrated edges make them sharp enough to actually cut the food items but unlikely to hurt small hands easily.

Measuring Cup Set, Under $10 for a full set Find at: Any superstore, dollar store, or grocery store Introducing measurement concepts to your little one allows them to grasp the basics so they can build upon those skills later. Eventually, your child will use measurement skills for everyday tasks such as cooking, organizing objects in the home, understanding time, and using money. These basic kitchen tools can be used to introduce fractions by pouring four quarter cups into a one-cup and so forth. Some sets even come in pieshaped circles to visualize the fractions literally. Start by showing them the difference between dry measuring cups and a liquid measuring cup and explaining when you would use each of them. Also, show them measuring spoons (for measuring small amounts). The following are great, basic things that kids should know when learning about cooking & baking.

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Family Travels

KATIE HARRIS

December in Big Sky Montana DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS? It’s not quite the North Pole, but this month’s southwest Montana destination could fool anyone into thinking they’ve been transported to Santa’s backyard.

Dubbed “Home to the biggest skiing in America,” Big Sky Resort is larger in acreage than any ski resort in Colorado, which means plenty of room on the slopes to spread out. But good skiing’s not the only reason Big Sky topped our list of roadtrips for December. The resort offers numerous opportunities for winter adventure to put the whole family in the holiday spirit. Read on for a suggested three day itinerary in Big Sky, Montana.

Day 1:

Day 3:

If there’s one last experience you can’t miss on a winter trip to Montana, it’s dog sledding. Spirit of the North Sled Dog Adventures offers tours seven days a week, twice a day in December, conditions allowing. Wind your way through the Moonlight Basin above Big Sky Mountain Village behind a team of trained sled dogs. The whole trip takes approximately two hours and is appropriate for all ages. As with every activity this trip, warm clothing including boots, hand warmers and toe warmers are highly recommended. Book early by visiting www.huskypower.com.

Make the 10 hour drive to Big Sky. We recommend opting for the easterly route through Bozeman, allowing for a home stretch through scenic Gallatin National Forest. Upon arrival, it’s time to immerse yourself in a true winter wonderland with a trek through the Enchanted Forest. Beginning on Dec. 13, the .6 mile wooded trail is lit by over 10,000 lights, leading you to an outdoor fireplace perfect for cooking a s’more over. The experience takes about an hour to complete, with heated rides provided to and from the site. Advance reservations required through www.bigskyresort.com.

Day 2:

Hit the slopes! The resort offers ski lesson for kids as young as 3, as well as family private lessons for up to five people ages 7 and up. Alternatively, guests ages 14 and up can try their hand at Sno-Go biking. These bikes on skis are available to rent at the Big Sky Resort, or you can sign up to take a lesson at www.bigskyresort.com.

That evening, head over to Lone Mountain Ranch for a magical sleigh ride through the forest. Your adventure will lead you to an oil lantern-lit cabin where you’ll feast on prime rib while being regaled by cowboy songs and stories. The tour’s offered daily in December, at 4:30pm and 7:30pm. To book, visit www.lonemountainranch.com/ sleigh-ride-dinner/.

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‘TIS THE SEASON of giving. There’s no better time to help your kids learn the power of giving, and how it connects them with the ones they love.

Having a generous heart and showing it through positive actions toward others often leads to happiness and wellbeing. Here are ways you can grow the desire to give in your children.

“Learning to give creates connections and gives kids a sense of meaning and purpose. It raises selfesteem and instills a practice of gratitude,” says Courtney Gaskins, MFT, a marriage and family counselor in Loveland who sees kids throughout Northern Colorado.

NOTICE DAILY OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE You don’t have to make a huge effort to help your kids learn how to give. Just take advantage of daily opportunities that naturally arise.

“It doesn’t have to be big and grand. Talk about what’s happening in each other’s lives at dinner.

If your son has a test, ask him how the family can help him study. Talk about tasks you each have coming up, and discuss ways you can help each other out,” Gaskin says.

When you are out holiday shopping, show kindness to strangers. Hold the door. Let someone with a small basket of groceries go ahead of you.

By doing these small acts of kindness with your kids by your side, you are directly teaching them how to be giving in the world.

Don’t forget to follow up with praise when your child displays a kind act. Be specific, as in, ‘Wow. That was really nice of you to help me carry in groceries.’ Your positive recognition will make your child want to repeat more kind acts in the future.

“Giving and receiving instills a sense of gratitude, and gratitude connects. It helps us shift our mindset from a stuck place to one of growth.

When we feel grateful, we see the positives around us and giving helps kids see they can be a catalyst for positivity, too,” Gaskins says.

REFRAME THE IDEA OF CHORES No one loves chores, but really, they are just ways the family gives to each other. Help your kids understand that their work goes toward supporting the family as a whole. Chores create a ‘we’re all in

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The gift of learning to give Lynn U Nichols

this together’ attitude.

It’s okay to explain that you don’t like doing chores either, but you know it helps the family so you do them anyway. Share with your kids that doing chores is a way to show love for each other.

“Chores are a chance to instill a sense of, ‘I can do this’ and also a sense of, ‘I can work toward a goal for myself and for other members of my family,’” Gaskins says.

The next time your child sets the table or helps clean up, thank them for helping to feed the family.

Or, when they pick up their toys, thank them for keeping the space nice for the family.

When you see a neighbor, friend, or family member in need, point it out to your child. Ask them how you could help them feel better or resolve their problem. Kids are great at coming up with ideas on ways to help. Take the time to help them follow through with their idea, whether it is making a card, doing a favor, or simply giving a hug.

Help your child see chores as a necessary step in getting what they want. When your child helps a sibling finish chores, point out that because they are done early, the family will have more time to spend doing a favorite activity together, like bike riding or going to the park. When you can connect their positive action to a positive outcome, it motivates them to want to give.

CREATE STRONG FAMILY BONDS Teaching habits of giving creates strong family bonds. Instead of kids believing they are the center of the household, they see themselves as just one moving part of a larger whole. This sense of unity will extend to the classroom and sports field.

“When families get in the habit of giving, they create a sense of belonging in the family and a cohesiveness. Everyone feels like they are working towards a shared goal,” Gaskins says.

GIVE ALTERNATIVE GIFTS This year, when you help your kids buy and wrap presents for their friends and family, suggest that they also, or instead, give a gift of action. Rather than material gifts, get out the markers and colored paper and help them brainstorm and create certificates of favors – doing chores for a sibling, having a spa day for mom or dad with a foot rub and a treat, or giving the gift of a person’s personal favorite activity, like playing a certain board game 10 times. Personalizing the action makes the gift more meaningful.

Try it yourself. This year, wrap up a gift of a special event for your child. If your daughter loves hockey, maybe it is tickets to a hockey game for the family. If she loves roller skating, maybe it is a trip to the roller rink for the whole family. Or, if your son has shown an interest in rock climbing, sign him up for a class with his best friend.

Giving the gift of activities shows your kids you really get them and respect them, with the added bonus of good family-bonding time.

CELEBRATE RECEIVING Don’t forget the flipside of giving: receiving.

Help your kids learn language around expressing gratitude. For example, when your child offers to help, express what that kind gesture means to you. It can be as simple as, ‘That’s really kind of you. Thank you. You are making this job so much easier.’ Receiving a gift gracefully teaches your kids that we are all worthy of receiving, and that receiving is simply accepting someone’s love.

This year, broaden your idea of giving and watch out for simple ways in your daily life to encourage generosity and giving. Your family’s new year will be better for it.

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School District News: Greeley-Evans D6

Meeker Elementary to offer dual language option

Dual Language Immersion provides instruction and support for students to become fully proficient in English and Spanish.

Students will study literacy, math, social studies and science, as well as engage in specials classes like their peers. Students will receive instruction in core subjects in both English and Spanish.

The dual language program housed at Meeker Elementary School is open to all of District 6 students and will eventually include one classroom per grade level.

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Meeker families will also have the option of choosing this program for their kindergarten student, but students do not have to be in the dual language program to attend Meeker.

The program will enroll kindergarten students for the 2024-2025 school year.

For more information on the dual language immersion program or to apply to enroll your child in the program, visit www.greeleyschools. org/duallanguage. Fill out the interest form on the page.

Incoming kindergarten

students must be 5 years old by October 1, 2024 in order to register for any kindergarten program in District 6.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Greeley-Evans School District 6 will accept applications for students who want to attend a school that is outside their boundary area until Dec. 20, 2023.

Any parent or guardian interested in enrolling their child in a school outside their home boundary for the 20242023 school year must apply

during the open enrollment period, which is November 1, 2023, through December 20, 2023. While District 6 is able to accommodate most open enrollment requests, it may not be able to approve requests for enrollment into schools, specific grade levels or special programs that are at or above capacity or cannot fulfill the specific needs of the student.

All open enrollment applications are online.

Find out more at www. greeleyschools.org/ openenrollment.

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School District News: Poudre

School choice and registration open for 2024-25 at www.psdschools.org/ onlineregistration.

Poudre School District is proud to offer strong academic and social opportunities for students in each of our 54 schools.

Families from inside or outside PSD boundaries who want to enroll their children in schools outside their neighborhood can submit a school choice application at www. psdschools.org/schools/ school-choice-process.

LEARNING ABOUT PSD SCHOOLS Learn more about our schools and programs at www.psdschools.org/schools and find details about open houses, information nights, and tours at www. psdschools.org/news/schoolopen-houses-2023.

SCHOOL CHOICE IN PSD The first window of opportunity for families to

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apply for school choice for the 2024-25 school year opened Nov. 1 and closes at noon on Dec. 15.

Important things to note if you’re applying: Applicants can apply to up to five PSD schools per child. Applicants must submit a separate application to each school.

Submitting a school choice application does not guarantee enrollment at any school applied for; acceptance is based on eligibility requirements and space availability.

First-round applications are not considered on a first-come-first-served basis; they are processed in a lottery to determine order within the application’s priority ranking.

Seat offers and waitlist notifications for first-round applicants are scheduled

to be sent the second week in January. Those offered a seat must respond to the offer within five business days, or the offer will be marked as declined.

A second-round school choice window will open after parents respond with their decisions about the first round of seat offers. Secondround applications are considered based on priority ranking and the date and time of when the application was submitted.

REGISTRATION IN PSD Online registration for all grades K-12 for the 202425 school year began Monday, Nov. 27. To learn more about online registration and enrolling new or returning students, visit the PSD Online Registration web page

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION IN PSD Kindergarten families can register for 2024-25 online now or in-person at their neighborhood elementary school on Wednesday, Dec. 6. Visit the School Locator at www.psdschools.org/ school-resources/schoollocator to determine which school is your neighborhood school.

Parents/legal guardians must register students entering kindergarten at their designated neighborhood school, even if a school choice application is pending.

Registering at the designated neighborhood school does not impact a pending school choice application or potential seat offers from a choice school or program.

Parents and guardians of incoming kindergartners should complete online or in-person registration by Dec. 6 to allow schools to determine their classroom sizes, staffing needs and the number of school choice seats they can offer.

However, online registration will remain available for families who need it past that date.

To learn more about kindergarten registration, visit www.psdschools. org/kinder.

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School District News: Thompson

TSD Alumni Spotlight a pilot, let alone flying a lifesaving helicopter.

What advice would you give to students who are in school now?

Never stop following your dreams. Dream big and follow your dreams. Be your own biggest supporter. Hold yourself accountable. Being persistent and never giving up is most important. Don’t get discouraged, because life will throw you curves.

Dust yourself off and keep looking forward.

Samantha Poirie is a 2005 Berthoud High School Graduate. Currently; she is the first female pilot for REACH Air Medical/ UCHealth LifeLine 1 at Medical Center of the Rockies.

What have you been doing since graduation and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I have been going nonstop since I graduated! I went to CSU for two years where I thought I wanted to be an equine veterinarian. Then I moved to Galena, Illinois to become a professional horse trainer. I absolutely loved that job, and did very well at it, but I wanted to pursue a career in Aviation.

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I moved back to Colorado and began flight school.

Working two jobs, I achieved my private fixed-wing license from Colorado Contrails in Loveland. I moved to Alaska and then attained my rotorcraft ratings and gained experience for the next six years. I got my commercial license in McMinnville, Oregon and my instrument license in Costa Mesa, California. From everything to drying cherry trees, flying people from their weddings, air tours, wildlife survey and capture, I lived all over gaining hours and experience. In March of 2019, I began my career with REACH Air Medical/ UCHealth LifeLine 1 at the Medical Center of The

Rockies. This is by far my proudest accomplishment: Flying a medical helicopter with a lifesaving crew, to help people.

What is your best memory of school?

Some of my best memories of school were riding the bus home with my best friends, doing the sack mask parade at Ivy, and playing in band in high school.

What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

That I was capable of so much more than I ever thought I could be. I never thought as a young girl that I would be capable of being

How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

Berthoud was a small town and it taught me that it doesn’t matter if you lose or win every soccer or football game, it’s the friendships and relationships that matter.

What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I am helping Larimer County Sheriff’s Office develop an Air Unit for search and rescue operations in northern Colorado on the side of flying EMS. Being a member on the team to help develop this program means a lot to me, and also gives back to the community.

I hope to move up in my company management-wise too. I also hope to always keep my helicopter, crew and myself safe on every mission we fly.

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Community News

THERESA BAER

Paint day, scholarship, free tutoring and survey on waste diversion social studies, PSAT/ SAT, ACT, AP and state standardized tests. You can receive constructive feedback on essays and other forms of writing through the 24-hour Writing Lab, or utilize Foreign Language Lab. And with the Adult Learning Center, users can access a library of adult learning content (GED) and live, professional assistance in resume/cover letter writing, U.S. citizenship prep, MS Office essential skills series and more! Get started at landing.brainfuse.com/ authenticate.asp?u=main. poudrelibraries. co.brainfuse.com.

LOVELAND YOUTH COMMUNITY PAINT DAY The Loveland Public Library is seeking the community’s help in painting a new mural for their Storytime Room.

Families can sign up for a 30-minute shift on Saturday, December 2 between 10am and 4pm at 300 North Adams in Loveland to join muralist Jeremy Jarvis in creating the mural. Visit www.lovelandpubliclibrary. org/events to sign up each child, ages 2–17. There are 15 youth participant openings per shift. Parents/ caregivers do not need to sign up but children younger than 12 MUST be accompanied by an adult.

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YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP WITH DECEMBER 5 DEADLINE The Sodexo Stop the Hunger Foundation strives to “ensure every child in the U.S., especially those most at risk, grows up with dependable access to enough nutritious food to enable them to lead a healthy, productive life.” The Foundation is currently seeking students, ages 5 to 25, who are using their creativity, academic studies (especially STEM activities) and organizational skills to help fight hunger in their communities for the Foundation’s national scholarship of $10,000 plus a $5,000 grant for their hungerrelated charity. Applicants

will share information about the communities they serve and how they engage others in these efforts. The annual application period runs October 5 through December 5. Learn more and apply us.stop-hunger.org/home/ grants.html.

FREE ALL AGES ONLINE TUTORING WITH YOUR LIBRARY CARD All ages and levels can access free online tutoring, homework help and writing lab resources with your Poudre Libraries card through Brainfuse HelpNow. Live online tutoring is available every day from 3pm until 11:59pm MST in math, science, reading/writing,

GREELEY SEEKS COMMUNITY INPUT ON WASTE DIVERSION The City of Greeley is conducting a waste characterization and diversion study to examine various waste types and options to further reduce the amount of waste in landfills through reducing, reusing and recycling. The city plans to use the study results to help city council review options around waste diversion. Residents can provide their thoughts on waste diversion and possibly win a $50 gift card by completing an online survey by December 9 at SpeakUpGreeley.com/ waste-diversion. To learn more about current recycling options at www.greeleygov. com/services/recycling.

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Community Calendar

THERESA BAER

December events FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Chilson Open House Free admission, fitness class demos, adult enrichment and family activities including scavenger hunt and pictures with Santa. Chilson Recreation Center, LV. LovGov.org/Chilson

ENTERTAINMENT

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS The 1879 Avery House Tours Docents will guide you through the historic home and tell the story of the Avery family.

Not ADA accessible. downtownfortcollins.com/do/ the-1879-avery-house-tours THROUGH JANUARY 28 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Reimagining of Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers, and the coat of many colors. Candlelight Dinner Theatre, Johnstown. coloradocandlelight.com

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DECEMBER 1 THROUGH JANUARY 20 Fire and Light Exhibit: Winter Solstice Traditions Explore unique festivals and rituals with common themes of fire and light.

Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, FC. globalvillagemuseum.org DECEMBER 1 AND 2 An Evening with Acoustic Eidolon Hannah and Joe are masters of the cello and guitar. Rialto Theater Center, LV. www.rialtotheatercenter. org/rialto-presents FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15 The Margarita Brother’s: Jimmy Buffett Tribute Rialto Theater Center, LV. www.rialtotheatercenter.org/ rialto-presents SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 Skygazing Northern Colorado Astronomical Society volunteers provide telescopes and share knowledge of stars, planets, galaxies, etc. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 Winter Solstice Stargazing NoCo Astronomical Society will have telescopes to celebrate the Winter Solstice! Loveland Public Library, LV. www.lovgov.org SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve Extreme Rodeo Challenge Blue Arena, LV. www. treventscomplex.com/events

ACTIVE-ITIES

MOST SATURDAYS Kids Nite Out Loveland & Windsor Safe, active fun. Chilson Recreation Center, LV or Windsor Community Rec Center, WS. kidsniteout.org FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 Family Art Challenge: Winter Wonderland Families work together to create a piece of art for library display. Clearview Library, WS. clearview. libnet.info/event/9251146 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Sweaty Sweater Race 5K Run/ Walk &Kids’ 1-Mile Support Adopt-A-Family through Serve 6.8 while sporting your ugliest

sweater. Foothills Mall, FC. frontrangefreeze.com/ sweaty-sweater-race SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 Toy Drop 5K,10K, 15K Support Realities for Children and drop a NEW, unwrapped toy before you take off running.

Three LV routes. www. sweetheartcityracing.com/ events/toy-drop-5k-and-10k Santa Catch Race 5k-10k Run/ Walk Kids Fun Run Raise funds to support Adopt-A-Family through Serve 6.8. Power to Play, WS. www.runwindsorco.com THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21 PEEPS Annual Winter Hike PEEPs Preschool Environmental Ed Program with mixed ages. River’s Edge Natural Area, LV. offero.cityofloveland.org/ Calendar

HOLIDAY & SEASONAL EVENTS CALENDAR THROUGH DECEMBER 2 Festival of Trees Holiday magic supporting the arts.

Union Colony Civic Center, GR. www.greeleyfestivaloftrees.com THROUGH DECEMBER 12 Ignite Estes Gingerbread House Contest View, vote and win a gingerbread house or $100 gift card. Funds raised go to Estes Valley Workforce Housing Assistance. US Bank, Downtown EP. www.visitestespark.com THROUGH DECEMBER 17 Estes Park Quota Festival of Trees View and buy chances to win from 43 beautifully decorated holiday trees. Funds raised support EP medical equipment needs. Lobby of Estes Park Resort and Dunraven Restaurant, EP. www.visitestespark.com THROUGH DECEMBER 18 Santas Quest Family-friendly scavenger hunt.

Downtown FC. www.downtownfortcollins.com THROUGH DECEMBER 23 Photos with Santa Select days and times. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, LV. www.thepromenadeshopsatcenterra. com/events THROUGH DECEMBER 24 Santa’s Workshop Old Town Square Visit with Santa. Old Town Square, FC. www.downtownfortcollins.com THROUGH JANUARY 1 12 Days of Christmas Light Display Dwayne Webster Memorial Park, LV. visitlovelandco.org

Loveland Winter Wonderlights Walkable holiday lights display and musical light shows plus live events with performances, Santa, reindeer, ice carving, more. Chapungu Sculpture Park at Centerra, LV. www.visitlovelandco.org/ winterwonderlights THROUGH JANUARY 31 Ice Rink at The Promenade Shops at Centerra Main plaza next to Build-a-Bear at The Promenade Shops at Centerra, LV. www.thepromenadeshopsatcenterra. com/events THROUGH FEBRUARY 14 Fort Collins Downtown Holiday Lights Thousands of LED lights lit at 5:30pm on Nov. 3. Old Town, FC. www.downtownfortcollins.com Old Town Square Skate Rink Old Town Square, FC. www.downtownfortcollins.com FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 Timnath Holiday Lighting Festival Old Town, Timnath. www.timnath.org/ holiday-lighting-festival CSU Marching Band Parade of Lights Preview Parade UCA and CSU Trial Gardens, FC. www.fcgov.com/specialevents/ calendar DECEMBER 1 THROUGH 31 Realties for Children NightLights Help shine light into the darkness of child abuse. First Presbyterian Church, FC. www.giveanightlight.com

SATURDAY DECEMBER 2 Santa Visits Loveland Public Library Santa will read a favorite story and be available for photos. Loveland Public Library, LV. www.lovgov.org Homesteader’s Holiday Historical house tours, holiday crafts, music. Centennial Village Museum, GR. https://greeleygov. com/greeley-calendar Windsor Wonderland Santa, tree lighting and more.

Boardwalk Community Park, WS. www.recreationliveshere.com Holiday Lane Downtown Greeley Walkable holiday displays, dance performances, marching bands and more. Downtown Square, GR. www.greeleydowntown.com/specialevents/downtown-greeley-winterfest Wellington Lights Downtown Lighting and Parade of Lights with Santa available before the parade. www.wellingtoncolorado.gov/calendar Poinsettia Pops Favorite holiday classics featuring Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, Greeley Chorale, Greeley Children’s Chorale and a local middle school student. Monfort Concert Hall, GR. www.greeleyphil.org/season DECEMBER 2 AND 3 Breakfast with Santa at The Farm Join Santa for muffins, milk, a hayride plus special gift. The Farm at Lee Martinez Park, FC. www.fcgov.com/events

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4-H Holiday Craft & Vendor Show The Ranch, LV. www.treventscomplex.com/events SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Makers’ Workshops Create cards, decorations, drinks, food, more. GR. www.greeleydowntown.com/specialevents/downtown-greeley-winterfest or greeleycreativedistrict.org Holiday Lane Drive at Island Grove A drive-through holiday light display experience. Island Grove Regional Park, GR. www.greeleydowntown.com/specialevents/downtown-greeley-winterfest SATURDAYS, DECEMBER 2, 9 AND 16 Breakfast with Santa Buy tickets in advance – event does sell out. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, LV. www.thepromenadeshopsatcenterra. com/events Visit Santa’s Reindeer Bath Garden Center, FC. www.bathgardencenter.com/events DECEMBER 4 THROUGH 31 Holiday Village All ages can enjoy the sights and sounds of a beautiful miniature village.

Fort Collins Senior Center lobby. www.fcgov.com/events DECEMBER 7 THROUGH 10 The Nutcracker Canyon Concert Ballet presents with Fort Collins Symphony Orchestra.

Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. www.lctix.com DECEMBER 8 THROUGH 23 Garden of Lights Whimsical light displays, Santa visits and live entertainment. Gardens on Spring Creek, FC. fcgov.com/lights DECEMBER 8 THROUGH 11 Loveland Choral Society: A Season of Celebration Rialto Theater Center, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org/rialto-presents

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DECEMBER 8 THROUGH 10 Colorado Dance Theatre: The Nutcracker With dancers gathered from many NoCo dance studios, CDT’s own orchestra directed by Russell Guyver, and Greeley Children’s Chorale.

Monfort Concert Hall, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Greeley Creative District: Maker’s Workshops Creative demonstrations, free workshops and a visit from Santa Claus. greeleycreativedistrict.org Mister Tim Sings Holiday Classics Classic holiday songs from the golden age of American pop music plus parodies, comedy, audience singalongs and holiday surprises. Fort Collins Senior Center. www.fcgovcom/events DECEMBER 8–10 AND 15–17 The Stampede Troupe Presents Scrooge Timeless musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Hensel Phelps Theatre, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com DECEMBER 9 THROUGH 31 Christmas Walk in the Woods Beautiful lights and photo opps at Santa’s House, Elf Work Shop, more.

Santa visits select days!

The Savage Woods, LV. www.christmaswalkinthewoods.com DECEMBER 12 AND 13 Celebrations of Light and Love Dance Express troupe members perform seasonal, graceful and lively dances. Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre, FC. www.lctix.com THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14 Winter Solstice Traditions & the Scandinavian Christmas Explore connections between Nordic mythology and Scandinavian folk traditions and their influence on Christmas practices. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, FC. www.globalvillagemuseum.org

DECEMBER 14 THROUGH 16 Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra: Christmas Brass Resounding trumpets and triumphant horns present holiday hymns and carols. Windsor, Fort Morgan and Greeley. www.greeleyphil.org/season FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15 K-LOVE’s Celebrate Christmas Tour Featuring Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey. Blue Arena, LV. www.treventscomplex.com The Parker Players: Improv for a Claus Family-friendly, holiday sketch show uses local news to showcase humor of the holidays. Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre, FC. www.lctix.com SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 Elevate Dance Presents Holiday in Whoville Monfort Concert Hall, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com Nutcracker, An Abridged Performance Studio West Dance Center tells the story of the classical Tchaikovsky/ Petipa ballet with excerpts of the show’s favorites. Fort Collins Senior Center. www.fcgov.com/events DECEMBER 16 AND 17 Winter Wonderland Celebration Family-friendly event with fun games, magical crafts, prizes, and surprises!

Bear & Bee Maker’s Studio & Boutique, EP. www.visitestespark.com SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17 Here For The Hoedown Presented by Just for Kix, dancers of all ages perform their winter recital.

Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. www.lctix.com TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19 Face Vocal Band: Best. Christmas. Ever!

All-vocal rock. Rialto Theater Center, LV. www.rialtotheatercenter.org/rialtopresents DECEMBER 22 AND 23 The Nutcracker Sweets Canyon Concert Ballet presents a child and sensory friendly version of this annual classic set in The Land of Sweets. Rialto Theater Center, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org/rialto-presents

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Time out

LEA HANSON

Gossip vs. appropriate sharing KIDS GOSSIP, especially middle schoolers. While it is our job as parents and household adults to teach good communication skills, like all lessons with our kids, things become more nuanced as we get older.

Things are no longer black and white; we learn (and sometimes teach) that some rules aren’t as important as others, some people can be trusted more than others, and more.

We all talk about others behind their backs; and (hopefully) as we get older, we learn the safe and appropriate ways to do so.

We learn to weigh our own need for sharing feelings with what is right to share about another person, and with whom we should be having these conversations.

I recently came across an online resource that helped me think of talking about others in a specific way I was able to share with my middle schooler. I found this to be extraordinarily helpful because once we understand what type of sharing we’re doing, we can better place whether we should share it in the first place and with whom.

When we think about what category our words fall into, we can determine whether or not we can share those words or need to keep our mouths shut.

When we are able to

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determine what ANOTHER person is sharing with US, we are able to respond more specifically and appropriately.

Below each definition are responses I have given to my kiddo in terms of appropriate way to verbally respond when someone is speaking to them.

VENTING: It’s okay to have feelings and to be annoyed or angry with a person with whom we have a close relationship.

And it’s also healthy and important to share those feelings with another person we know and trust.

Sometimes in venting, we’re sharing personal, private information about ourselves, and about the person with whom we’re upset. But, since we trust the person to whom we’re venting, we trust they can keep that

information to themselves.

Thank you for trusting me with this information.

I’m sorry you’re hurting/ mad/etc. It’s okay to share this with me.

It’s okay to vent, you can trust me to share this.

GOSSIPING: Gossiping is not venting, because we’re sharing the information with someone we don’t know well – and we don’t know if they are trustworthy.

I feel a little weird knowing this personal stuff about someone I don’t know.

I think I’d be mad/ embarrassed/sad if my friend told someone I don’t know or trust this type of personal information.

TALKING SMACK: Talking about someone we don’t know to someone

we don’t know is always useless. It’s mean and should always be avoided.

It feels a little mean/ judgey/unsafe to say unkind things about someone when we don’t know them.

Who knows what that person is going through–we probably shouldn’t assume.

SPILING TEA: When we talk about someone we know well to someone we don’t know well, we’re essentially just sharing private information with someone who doesn’t have any business knowing.

We should never spill tea.

If your friend knew you shared this with me, how do think they’d feel?

I don’t wanna know this.

When I’m mad at my friend, I tell them to their face. It’s hard, but they usually appreciate it.

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