Kids VT, November 2019

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice. Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have two to three years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at

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Holiday Fair

Friday, December 6 6:00–9:00 pm

Artisan Market

Shop from over 50 local vendors selling handcrafted gifts: b eeswax candles, textiles, jewelry, fine woodwork and pottery, and of course dolls and toys.

Family Fair & Market

Shop the market and enjoy festive activities for kids!

Children’s gift making, candle dipping, felt soap making, performances, the magical “Crystal Cave of the Snow Queen,” and more.

NOVEMBER

1-2 Fri at 8 pm & Sat at 2 & 8 pm

Middlebury Actors Workshop

Much Ado About Nothing ...

3 Sunday at 11 am & 2 pm

Red Kite Green Mountain

7-8 Thursday-Friday at 7 pm

Brian McCarthy Nonet

9 Saturday at 8 pm | doors 7 pm

Green Mountain Cabaret

10 Sunday at 2 pm

LCCMF: Merz Trio

16 Saturday at 10 am

Lobby | Free Family Saturdays

Red Kite Green Mountain

16 Saturday at 2 & 8 pm

The Cashore Marionettes

20 Wednesday at 7:30 pm

Dance Theatre of Harlem

22 Friday at 8 pm

Stand Up, Sit Down, & Laugh

DECEMBER

3 Tuesday at 7 pm

MacMaster & Leahy

A Celtic Family Christmas

6 Friday at 7 pm

A Christmas Carol

6 Friday at 8 pm

Stand Up, Sit Down, & Laugh

7 Saturday at 10 am

Lobby | Free Family Saturdays

Sabouyouma

7 Saturday at 8 pm

Béla Fleck & the Flecktones

7 Saturday at 8 pm | doors 7 pm

Green Mountain Cabaret

13 Friday at 8 pm

Daniel Bernard Roumain

17 Tuesday at 7:30 pm

Bryan Blanchette

21-22 Sat 4 & 6 pm & Sun 1 & 3 pm

Flynn Show Choir

23 Monday at 7:30 pm

Fiddler on the Roof

give the arts

MONDAY

The

31 Tuesday at 7:30 pm

Burlington Does Broadway

JANUARY

8-9 Wednesday-Thursday

Waitress

11 Saturday at 10 am

Lobby | Free Family Saturdays

Dance Party with DJ

16 Thursday at 7:30 pm

William Shatner

The Wrath of Khan

22 Wednesday at 7:30 pm

We Shall Overcome

23 Thursday at 7:30 pm

Gabriela Montero

25 Saturday at 8 pm

Stand Up, Sit Down...

FEBRUARY

8 Saturday at 10 am

Lobby | Free Family Saturdays

Daniel Bernard Roumain

8 Saturday at 8 pm

DBR & TURNmusic

9 Sunday at 7 pm

MOMIX

14 Friday at 6 & 8:30 pm

Alicia Olatuja

15 Saturday 8 pm|doors 7 pm

Green Mountain Cabaret

20-22 Thurs-Sat at 7 pm

Actors from the London Stage

The Tempest

21 Friday at 8 pm

Masters of Illusion

29 Saturday at 8 pm

Malpaso Dance Co.

29 Saturday at 8 pm

Stand Up, Sit Down...

MARCH

3 Tuesday at 7:30 pm

Finding Neverland

14 Sat 8 pm|doors 7 pm

Green Mountain Cabaret

15 Sunday at 3 pm

Flip Fabrique: Blizzard

17 Tuesday at 7 pm

Peking Acrobats

19 Thursday at 7:30 pm

Russian National Ballet

Sleeping Beauty

20-21 Fri 8 pm & Sat 3 & 8 pm

Broadway’s Next Hit Musical

23 Monday at 6 pm

The Snowy Day

28 Saturday at 8 pm

Stand Up, Sit Down...

APRIL

3 Friday at 6 & 8:30 pm

SFJAZZ Collective

4 Saturday 8 pm|doors 7 pm

Green Mountain Cabaret

11 Saturday at 10 am

Lobby | Free Family Saturdays

Young Traditions Vermont

12 Sunday at 2 pm

LCCMF: The Westerlies

15-16 Wed-Thurs at 6 pm

Wild Kratts Live 2.0

17 Friday at 8 pm

Charles Lloyd & the Marvels with Lucinda Williams

17-18 Fri-Sat at 8 pm

Sara Juli: Burnt-Out Wife

24 Friday at 8 pm

Stand Up, Sit Down...

25 Saturday 8 pm|doors 7 pm

Green Mountain Cabaret

29 Wednesday at 7:30 pm

Renée Fleming

30-1 Thurs-Fri at 6 & 8:30 pm

Improvised Shakespeare

BLACK FRIDAY: Buy 1, Get 1

CYBER MONDAY: Buy more,save more

Offer details at www.flynncenter.org/bfcm.html

FLYNNCENTER.ORG 802-863-5966

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

COPUBLISHER/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Cathy Resmer cathy@kidsvt.com

COPUBLISHER

Colby Roberts colby@kidsvt.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Alison Novak alison@kidsvt.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Mary Ann Lickteig maryann@kidsvt.com

STAFF/CALENDAR WRITER

Brett Stanciu brett@kidsvt.com

ART DIRECTOR Brooke Bousquet brooke@kidsvt.com

MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR

Corey Grenier corey@kidsvt.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Kaitlin Montgomery kaitlin@kidsvt.com

AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST

Gillian English

PROOFREADERS

Katherine Isaacs, Kara Torres

PRODUCTION MANAGER

John James

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Don Eggert

DESIGNERS

Kirsten Cheney, Rev. Diane Sullivan

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Matt Weiner

BUSINESS MANAGER

Cheryl Brownell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Fitzgerald, Astrid Hedbor Lague, Megan James, Elisa Järnefelt, Ken Picard, Molly Ritvo

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Andy Brumbaugh

ILLUSTRATORS

Jacob Clauson, Jeanie Williams

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True Gratitude

In September, I took my family to Burlington’s Community Sailing Center for a presentation by 24-year-old Dutch sailor Laura Dekker. At age 14, Dekker embarked on a solo two-year sailing trip around the world — chronicled in the excellent 2013 documentary Maidentrip — becoming the youngest person to complete the journey. In her talk, Dekker shared highlights of the experience, as well as lessons learned along the way.

After hurting her foot on board her boat, Dekker was nursed back to health by a family on an island in the South Pacific. When she tried to give them a token of her appreciation, they refused, acting almost o ended by the o ering, Dekker told the crowd. Later, someone from that region told her that the concept of thanking someone by giving them something in return wasn’t the way these islanders had learned to express appreciation; it felt too transactional. In their culture, showing thanks took the form of reciprocating with friendship or help, or paying it forward — passing on the kindness to someone else.

Dekker’s words made me think about the way we American parents try to instill gratitude in our kids. The written and verbal expressions of thankfulness we often ask of our children can feel forced or inauthentic. What if, instead of pestering our kids to write a thank-you note or quietly muttering “Say thank you” the next time someone gives them something, we try asking them to think of how they could return the kindness, or put more kindness out into the world instead? It’s a paradigm shift I’m willing to try.

In this month’s issue, we explore the theme of “Giving Back” — a nod to the holiday of Thanksgiving. On page 28, find my article about the Lullaby Project, an initiative started at Carnegie Hall in New York City in 2011, that helps pregnant women and new moms and dads write original songs for their babies. In October, Scrag Mountain Music and Writers for Recovery teamed up to o er the sweet opportunity to parents at Lund’s residential treatment center. On page 30, Mary Ann Lickteig writes about Vermont’s new chapter of Project Linus, a 24-year-old nonprofit organization that provides homemade blankets to hospitalized children. Colchester resident and former elementary school principal Joyce Irvine started the chapter this year after her young grandson was diagnosed with childhood cancer.

Because the holidays are drawing near, we’re also featuring a gift guide starting on page 18, with ideas for presents — most of which can be purchased locally — that will help your kids stay active, experience new things, pitch in around the house, read more and have fun.

Finally, we’re happy to announce that our Good Citizen Challenge is o cially underway. The fun and educational project aims to help young people become more civically engaged by completing a variety of quizzes and activities. See page 32 for sample activities and visit goodcitizenvt.com to get started.

STAFF QUESTION

What is the best gift you’ve ever given someone?

We surprised our sons with ANIMALS on two di erent occasions, which will go down as my favorite thing I’ve done as a mom! The first time was when we went to get our puppy and didn’t tell the kids where we were going until we were about to pull into the driveway. The second time, a stray kitten was brought into the o ce, and I brought it home (that was even a surprise for my husband!).

BROOKE BOUSQUET, ART DIRECTOR

When each of our kids turned 12, my husband and I gave them a ONE-ON-ONE TRIP with one of us. I got to go first. My daughter picked New York City because she’d never been there. We walked through Central Park, ate dinner in a tiny Italian restaurant, lucked into third row seats to see Cinderella on Broadway and basked in the neon energy of Times Square.

MARY ANN LICKTEIG, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

I took my late husband to JUMP OUT OF AN AIRPLANE for his birthday. That’s not what killed him. Ha!

DIANE SULLIVAN, DESIGNER

In December 2008, just three months after I got married, I called my mother on Long Island to tell her that my wife and I had a very special Chanukah present for her that year, but that she had to wait nine months to get it. It took her a few seconds to catch on, but on September 6, 2009, HER FIRST GRANDCHILD was born. It’s not often that you get to make your mom cry for a good reason. This one was the best.

KEN PICARD, STAFF WRITER

The Christmas she was 15, I gave my oldest daughter a really nice, very adult CAMERA that she desperately wanted. I paid more for IT than was reasonable, but — five years later — she still uses it, and photography is an even deeper passion of hers.

BRETT ANN STANCIU, STAFF/CALENDAR WRITER

CONTRIBUTOR’S NOTE

MEGAN JAMES (“Use Your Words, page 47) lives in Middlebury with her husband, their two daughters and a one-eyed cat. She works for the Addison County Independent and runs MiniBury, an online resource for parents of young children in Addison County. She is the former managing editor of Kids VT

ALISON NOVAK, MANAGING EDITOR

Autumn’s bounty at Family Cow Farmstand in Hinesburg

TRENDING

Burlington High School girls’ soccer team goes viral after being penalized for revealing #equalpay jerseys during a game. It might have cost them four yellow cards, but it gained them glowing national news coverage and a Twitter nod from soccer superstar Brandi Chastain.

Vermont’s Windsor County State’s Attorney

David Cahill announced he will leave his position to help raise his young daughters. He’s uncomfortable receiving praise for the decision, reports the Associated Press.

“Our society regularly imposes that price on females,” Cahill said.

STUDENT EXHIBIT

Self-portraits made by middle school students in Winooski will be displayed at Scout & Co. coffee and ice cream shop on East Allen Street as part of an exhibit entitled “Identity Through Art,” which runs through the end of November.

The 28 portraits of students in grades 6, 7 and 8 celebrate the diversity of the school — where about 20 languages are spoken — as well as students’ individuality and unique points of view.

“Drawing my self-portrait really helped me to express my identity,” said student artist Logan Erwin. “Seeing as I’m part of the LGBTQ community, I added rainbow colors into the background to represent that part of who I am. I’m a little nervous about sharing my art,” Logan added, “but I like stepping out of my comfort zone, so I’m excited to see my portrait on display downtown.”

Student work was professionally matted by Art Works Frame Shop & Gallery and installed by Cornelius & Company fine art installation, both local businesses.

A special reception for the exhibit will take place on the evening of Thursday, November 21, during the monthly Winooski Art Walk.

YOGA POSE OF THE MONTH: WARRIOR III / FLYING BIRD POSE

This balancing pose strengthens the entire body while improving balance, coordination and focus.

Steps:

1. Stand in mountain pose

2. Bring right toes behind you on the mat

3. Inhale and bring arms out wide to the sides like wings

4. Exhale and look at a point that is not moving

5. Inhale and lift toes up off the ground any amount. Hold here for 5 seconds or as long as you can!

6. Repeat on the other side

7. FLY WITH A FRIEND! Stand next to or facing each other and hold hands. Lift opposite feet behind you to fly together!

Warrior III at the Community Sailing Center

Starbucks released a special Halloween-themed Frappuccino overseas made with black charcoal powder and topped with lime-flavored slime. We’ll stick with the pumpkin spice, thank you very much.

NPR announces the return of its Student Podcast Challenge for middle and high schoolers.

Just remember —

Terry Gross and Ira Glass were teens once, too.

#INSTAKIDSVT

Thanks for sharing your fall photos with us using the hashtag #instakidsvt. We loved this picture of 9-year-old Sadie and 6-year-old Wren completing the Long Trail. Follow their family’s adventures traveling around the country on a school bus at deliberatelifeadventure.com.

Share photos of your family exploring new places this month.

HERE’S HOW: Follow @kids_vt on Instagram.

Post your photos on Instagram with the hashtag #instakidsvt. We’ll select a photo to feature in the next issue.

Tag us on Instagram!

Pose description courtesy of Susan Cline Lucey, owner of Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center in Burlington and Essex. For more information about kids and family yoga classes, visit evolutionprenatalandfamily.com.

Top: Ivy Resmer. Clockwise from top left: Moo Thay Lay Htoo, Logan Erwin, John Kadariya, Asheera Turner

Elle est Extraordinaire!

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG

Five years ago, Elisabeth “Bibba” Kahn returned to her alma mater, Montpelier’s Main Street Middle School, to teach French and Spanish. In mid-October, students lined the gym bleachers for an all-school assembly and cheered as Madame Kahn was named the 2020 Vermont Teacher of the Year. Her new role will take her around the state to visit schools and work with other teachers.

“I’m blown away by my colleagues every day, and I know that we all are working really hard,” she said. Still, some students don’t achieve proficiency. “I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking what we can do to reach those kids … ” she said. “At the root of it is, kids need to feel seen and valued, and they need to know that their teachers are committed to their learning.” Simply greeting students by name as they walk into the classroom has been shown to boost achievement, Kahn said. Spending a few minutes asking about their day, meeting them where they are and then getting to work helps, too. On a deeper level, teachers can adopt informed practices to accommodate students who have experienced trauma and to include those who belong to historically marginalized groups.

A sign prohibiting Google Translate hangs in Kahn’s classroom, where students sing and play games to learn language. As she travels the state and learns what’s working for other teachers, Kahn hopes to facilitate an idea exchange and create a broad community of colleagues.

“This award could not go to a more deserving professional,” Montpelier-Roxbury Public Schools Superintendent Libby Bonesteel said in a statement.

Kahn got the nickname “Bibba” when her younger brother couldn’t pronounce Elisabeth. She took a gap year after graduating from the Taft School in Watertown, Conn., and taught in Ghana for six months. She earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Middlebury College, spent three years coordinating and organizing travel programs at Putney Student Travel, and taught in Maryland, California and New Hampshire before coming home to Main Street Middle School.

The history and English teachers she had at Taft School are among her most memorable. English

teacher William MacMullen — Mr. Mac — assigned a lot of writing, critiqued it harshly and churned out solid writers, she said. “No matter where our writing was when we started, his expectation was the same for all of us. And it was high.”

Jon Willson was the only history teacher Kahn had who required students to use primary sources and develop their own understanding and interpretation of history. “It made me feel like a scholar,” she said.

Kahn’s own students will likely remember her as a teacher who let them determine how they wanted to learn language and how to demonstrate their proficiency. They will remember songs about conjugating verbs. Some like those songs more than others, she said. “But they all know them.” She occasionally gets emails from former students, now in high school, saying things like, “We were learning this verb again in French III, and I sang the song for them!” K

The Vermont Agency of Education has recognized outstanding teachers with the Vermont Teacher of the Year Award since 1964. Bethany Morrissey, an elementary teacher at Salisbury Community School, and Emily Therrien, a 10th grade English and social studies teacher at Randolph Union High School were recognized this year as distinguished finalists.

NOVEMBER 2016

20 Ways To Give Back

Three years ago, we compiled a list of ways that families can volunteer in their communities. From purchasing an item on a nonprofit organization’s wish list to asking birthday party attendees to bring canned food donations for your local foodbank in lieu of gifts, find some great ideas for spreading goodwill this giving season at kidsvt.com/givingback.

KIDS SAY WHAT? PET CORNER

Ashley

“You always get to do whatever you want. Like today, you cleaned the refrigerator!”

EZRA, AGE 8, SPEAKING TO HIS MOM

Maskell shared this cute photo of 6-year-old daughter Adasyn with her 1-yearold German shepherd, Chase. “They love spending time playing catch, and mostly just snuggling up together,” said Maskell of the pair. “They were best friends from the start.”

Vermont Education Secretary Dan French congratulates 2020 Teacher of the Year Elisabeth Kahn

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG

LACTATION SUPPORT Got Milk?

NEW BUSINESS

Play Ball!

Baseball and softball players can take their game to the next level at a new 17,000 square-foot indoor academy in Essex Junction. Richmond native and 2010 Mount Mansfield Union High School graduate Dan French opened THE STRIKE ZONE in September. “We’re developing baseball and softball players mechanically, physically and mentally through various programs and various levels,” French said. The Strike Zone o ers private and semi-private lessons, camps, and clinics, and 10 batting cages — two with pitching machines. A HitTrax baseball analytics system generates in-depth data that allows sta ers to identify weaknesses in a hitter’s swing and hone their training. The system — used by colleges and professionals, French said — can measure exit velocity (the speed of a ball coming o the bat) and can calculate distance, where the ball would land on the field, and whether it’s an out, a single, a double or a triple. A slate of area coaches has signed on as instructors. And South Burlington’s Concept Move has installed a satellite gym at the academy for strength, speed and agility training. The Strike Zone welcomes rookies and T-ballers as young as 3. Baseball has always been a passion for French, a pitcher and outfielder for the MMU Cougars and one of the leaders on the pitching sta at Southern Maine Community College, where he holds the record in innings pitched, is second in strikeouts and third in wins. “Baseball’s always been something I’ve been laserfocused on…” he said. “And I’m able to e ciently and e ectively communicate with the younger generation how to change their di erent mechanics and get di erent results.”

The Strike Zone is at 160 Griffin Lane — the intersection of Route 2 and Susie Wilson Road — in Essex Junction. Learn more at thestrikezone.com.

When newborn babies at some Vermont hospitals, including the University of Vermont Medical Center and Central Vermont Medical Center, need supplemental breast milk, the hospital can provide pasteurized donor milk. But once the babies are discharged, parents are on their own. If they want to continue feeding supplemental pasteurized breast milk, they have to mail order it from out-of-state milk banks. “We noticed a gap in care,” said Amy Wenger, a registered nurse and certified lactation counselor. So she and Rachel Foxx, a registered nurse and international board certified lactation consultant, have partnered with Susan Cline Lucey, owner of Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, to launch the VERMONT DONOR MILK CENTER at Evolution’s Essex Junction location. It will o er pasteurized donor human milk, coupled with lactation and postpartum support, to families across Vermont and northern New York. The donor milk center, which organizers hope to open in early 2020, expects to serve primarily as a bridge, supplying milk for two to four weeks, while mothers and babies work through nursing di culties. But the center intends to serve some long-term needs as well. To qualify, families will need a prescription from their child’s doctor. Milk will be sold on a sliding scale, from $10 to $170 for 40 ounces, and come from a milk bank certified by the Human Milk Banking Association of North America. Organizers are hoping to start an endowment so that families who can’t a ord to pay can still get milk. “The mission of the Vermont Donor Milk Center is to be able to provide supplemental breast milk to anyone who wants it,” Cline Lucey said. The center won’t recruit milk donors, but local women who have been screened and approved will be able to drop o their milk to be shipped out of state to be pasteurized. Parents who need to supplement often turn to formula, Wenger said. “But there’s a superior product out there... We know that the benefits of breast milk far outweigh that of formula.” Researchers continue to learn of new benefits, Foxx said. “So it really is this magical food that we can’t make outside of the body.”

The Vermont Donor Milk Center is a nonprofit organization located at Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, 37 Lincoln St., Essex Junction. To donate money or to learn more, visit vtdonormilk.org.

Winter Wonderland

The words “frozen in Vermont” may conjure up less than idyllic images. But Alex Crothers and Lyndsy Blais are about to change that. The owners of Higher Ground and Wildflowers Studio, respectively, are teaming up to throw a winter spectacular that showcases the beauty of the season, without the hassle to bundle up. They plan to transform Higher Ground’s ballroom into a winter wonderland for FROZEN IN VERMONT, a family event geared toward kids ages 3 to 10. The two shows on Dec. 1 will feature sensory play areas, a bounce castle, a photo prop station, airbrush tattoos, and the opportunity to make a crown, snowman or other take-home craft. Anna and Olaf will mingle and perform in a show presented by Fusion 802 dance studio. Food, of the kid-friendly variety, will be available for purchase. South Burlington music venue Higher Ground has been increasing its familyoriented programming in the last year and a half, and the Frozen event fits the bill, said Crothers, whose 2-year-old daughter will be in attendance. Blais has plans to enchant the 7,000 square-foot ballroom from floor to ceiling.

“I’m just sort of looking at it as a giant birthday party,” she said.

“Frozen in Vermont” comes to Higher Ground at noon and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1. Tickets are $12 for adults and $18 for children 1 and up. Purchase them at highergroundmusic.com.

BY MOLLY RITVO

Strong Mamas

Three fitness professionals support pregnant and postpartum women

Awoman’s body is truly a marvel as it goes about growing another human. Blood volume increases, skin stretches, joints and ligaments loosen, and organs move to accommodate the growing baby. And once baby arrives, mom’s body can produce food and, at the same time, readjust to its nonpregnant state. Staying fit through it all can be a challenge. Not to mention finding the energy and the time. Three Chittenden County fitness experts — all moms themselves — cater their work to pregnant and postpartum women. They offer words of encouragement, bicep curls to help you hoist that car seat, and exercise classes where you can stretch, sweat and strengthen with a toddler in tow. Whether it’s a You got this! you need to hear, or a Relax, and give yourself time, these women have got your back.

SUZY SHULMAN

CHILD: CATHERINE, 16 MONTHS

Shulman created the SxB method — an amalgamation of strength training, Pilates, yoga and ballet movements — in 2012 and opened her studio in 2016. When she had her own daughter a little over a year ago, she became passionate about helping other moms work exercise into their lives. She allows kids to tag along during daytime classes to make fitness more accessible to mothers and caregivers. At her classes, says Shulman, “It’s not uncommon to see a mama nursing, a toddler running around, and some older kids playing in the lounge. There’s probably a dog or two as well.”

Fitness advice for new moms: One: Do what feels right. Don’t push it. You have a lifetime to work out. Listen to your body. Two: Just make it happen. Find 10 to 15 minutes and move your body. You will be happy you did. And demand the time you need

ALMA MUJEZINOVIC OWNER/TRAINER, SHIFT WELL STUDIO, SHELBURNE SHIFTWELLSTUDIO.COM

CHILDREN: HAMZA, 10, AND FARIS, 7 For more than nine years, Mujezinovic has worked with pregnant women as a birth doula. In that role, she observed that many of her clients felt tired and sluggish and needed guidance about how to exercise during pregnancy. “Postpartum visits were similar,” she says. “Many of my clients were not sure how to safely start exercising again once they were cleared by their OBs.” In February 2019, Mujezinovic opened Shift Well Studio, which focuses on functional strength training for prenatal and postnatal women. Conventional gym environments are often designed with men’s needs in mind, says Mujezinovic. At Shift Well, she creates training plans

from those in your life who can give it to you, be it your partner, your parents or a babysitter.

Favorite exercise for pregnant women/new moms: For pregnant mamas, squats! All the squats, all the time. For postpartum mamas, pelvic curls and bridge toe taps to strengthen the weakened pelvic floor. How becoming a mom changed her outlook on exercise: It didn’t. Exercise is just as important as it was before I had a kid. And I’m lucky: It’s literally my job to work out. I definitely took my time getting back into it. I was very happy to not work out at all before 10 weeks postpartum. During that time I took long walks and stretched.

On having a healthy body image: I want to dispel the idea that women need to “bounce back.” What are we bouncing back from? Unequivocally, your body is a changed vessel after giving birth. You were perfect before you were pregnant, and you’re perfect after.

“for the female physiology and its ever-evolving state.”

Fitness advice for new moms: I want women to look at their bodies as this amazing, strong and capable vessel that has created, nurtured and birthed a baby! We are bombarded with perfect images of women “bouncing back” on social media. And that is absolutely not reality. It took your body nine months to grow a baby. Your body needs that much time and more for recovery. Nurture your body with good whole foods and move your body in any way that feels good to you.

Favorite exercise for pregnant women/new moms: My favorite exercises are those that help with the functional movements we use in daily life as moms — movements such as lifting a

REBECCA WEISMAN DIRECTOR, IYENGAR YOGA CENTER OF VERMONT, BURLINGTON IYCVT.COM

CHILDREN: MISHA, 3, AND SAFFRON, 3 MONTHS

Taking a more zen approach to fitness, Weisman has been teaching Iyengar yoga, which emphasizes detail, precision and alignment, at the Iyengar Yoga Center of Vermont since 2006. She offers prenatal and postnatal yoga class series throughout the year. Weisman practiced yoga during both of her pregnancies and credits it for helping her recover, both physically and emotionally. “During birth, I felt the mental aspects of yoga had a profound effect on my ability to stay present. But it was really during the postpartum time when it was like, Oh wow, this is no joke, this is hard,” she says. “My body and mind were really pushed to the limit, and I needed yoga like never before.”

Fitness advice for new moms: Go slow! It takes time for the organs to heal and return to their proper place. Take the opportunity to learn about your own anatomy. Don’t ignore symptoms that persist. Seek help from qualified practitioners. Trust that things will improve!

When the kids nap, make the first thing you do be something nourishing for yourself. All the other stuff can wait. Favorite exercise for pregnant

baby from a crib, carrying large bags of groceries and feeding our babies. How becoming a mom changed her outlook on exercise: I see exercise as a necessity now. It keeps me healthy and strong for me and for my children. I want to be able to run with them and ski with them. I want to be able to keep up for as long as I can. I also want to model this behavior so that they, hopefully, grow up wanting to move their bodies.

women/new moms: Yoga, of course! My favorite poses for postpartum mamas are inversions such as headstand and shoulder stand. These are incredibly healing and also aid in combating fatigue, anxiety and depression. I also recommend walking and spending time in nature.

How becoming a mom changed her outlook on exercise: It wasn’t until my first child was 2 that I really felt fully back in my body. But I was also amazed at how strong and resilient I really am. There’s a lot of pressure, including self-pressure, to be utterly giving all the time. But actually, if I keep my practice at the center of it all, then everything falls into place. Everyone is happier and more nourished. It’s like the glue of the whole operation.

On self-love: I think if we could all treat ourselves and our bodies with the same gentleness, compassion and patience we try to show towards our little ones, we’d all be better off. K

OWNER/TRAINER, STUDIO SXB, WINOOSKI SUZYSHULMAN.COM

Rebecca Weisman with her daughters

Alma Mujezinovic with her sons

Suzy Shulman and her daughter

As with any program, check with a health care professional before beginning prenatal or postpartum exercise.

One of my favorite things about being the parent of a 2-year-old is being able to witness my daughter paying attention to the smallest details and expressing joy about them. It’s contagious. If you had asked me a few years ago what I was thankful for, my list would have probably taken a long time to compile, and it would have been short. Not because I only had few things to be grateful for, but because I had started to think that the answer to this question had to be, somehow, grand. I had forgotten that the seemingly small things can be magnificent, too. This season, looking through my daughter’s eyes, I’ve relearned what to be thankful for:

• waffles for breakfast

• that one avocado seed that sprouted

• the sight and sound of every fire truck

• garbage truck days

• figuring out a good hiding place in hide-and-seek

• having a favorite book

• walking on crunching leaves

• drawing monsters

• petting sheep

• setting up the bird feeder

• memorizing the words of songs

• learning to pedal a bicycle

• learning when to say sorry

• finding the moon in the sky K

Tunes on the Tube

In 1969, a year after Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination, Fred Rogers invited O cer Clemmons, the friendly neighborhood policeman, to dip his feet into a wading pool during an episode of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” The message was unmistakable: an AfricanAmerican man and a white man peacefully sharing cool water and a towel at a time when many public pools in America remained segregated.

This fall, the man who played O cer Clemmons, Middlebury resident François Clemmons, makes a guest appearance on the second season of Vermont PBS’s “Mister Chris and Friends.” Fitting for a show released just before the holiday season, Clemmons o ers Mister Chris — the moniker of Shelburne children’s musician and Music for Sprouts instructor Chris Dorman — advice about appreciating the harvest holiday, then the two sing a song together.

Following its well-received first season — which garnered two New England Emmy award nominations — the second season’s six new episodes center around the theme “Change and Transition.” For new viewers, the show mixes music, movement and natural science, with a focus on early childhood social and emotional development. Each show follows the same three-act structure.

Mister Chris makes a wish that leads him on a journey, meets new friends and finishes with a big concert. Interviews with kids are sprinkled in.

“It’s been proven that preschoolers will be best prepared for early education when they interact with adults and screens,” said Holly Groschner, president and CEO of Vermont PBS. The TV station encourages families to watch together and is committed to creating “this opportunity to ensure there’s access for everyone to great education and great skill-building that will help young people in the classroom,” she added.

Shortly after filming episode five, Dorman and the show’s producer and director, Holt Albee, o ered their thoughts about the upcoming season.

Kids VT: Can you share a few highlights of season two?

Holt Albee: In episode three, we explore sound. One of our characters is trying to learn to whistle, and having a lot of trouble doing that. We explore that sometimes you’re trying to do something, and your body won’t do it. You require an adaptation. We partnered with Path of Life Sculpture Garden in Windsor, as well as [renowned children’s musicians] Claudia Eliaza and Dan Zanes. This is the first time we have a neurologically diverse kiddo as one of our kiddo interviewees. He’s a lot of fun, and it was really special to work with him.

Chris Dorman: He had a choice board, so he could point to the things he liked to do together. It was a really wonderful experience.

HA: Episode four is called “New Friends.” A new family has moved to the farm from El Salvador, and Chris is wondering how to welcome this family and make them feel at home. We partnered with [Montpelier market garden] Ananda Gardens and Ballet Vermont.

KVT: Families seem to respond to the positivity of Mister Chris and Friends. HA: I want to point out that Chris is really the beacon of a lot of that. His kindness and his desire to connect genuinely with kids of all ages, abilities and backgrounds really comes through. I try hard to foster that through the whole production. Sometimes, we work long days, hard days. But we try always to have fun and keep a light atmosphere around the set, so that everyone’s having a good experience. Behind the scenes, everyone having that positivity and really wanting the show to succeed is a big reason why it comes across that way on camera.

KVT: What most excites you about working on the show?

CD: Our crew is so positive and so creative and collaborative that I’m having a great time doing this work. Not having ever worked in a television studio before, I still have the sense this is a unique and special place. This adventure began with Music for Sprouts classes — through that live experience with children and families. The reason I’m very passionate about taking that music and movement curriculum and building upon that in this form is that I believe public media is really important. It’s a medium that is accessible to people all over.

KVT: How can parents and caregivers best support small children in their early years?

CD: If there’s a fundamental challenge that I see for all kiddos going into preschool, it is developing a sense of self that is positive and feels like it’s celebrated and respected in those di erent environments. Any opportunity to say I see you, I hear you, I appreciate you deeply for who you are, and for the things that you do, and the way that you do them is the greatest gift we can give to kiddos. It recognizes their unique abilities, and it helps them feel heard and therefore connected to you. One trusted relationship begets another. These kiddos are learning how to build those trusted relationships with kiddos their own ages. As they get older, those relationships will be colleagues and partners and their own kiddos. I would say that is still the universal challenge and opportunity.

This interview has been edited and condensed for space and clarity.

The first two episodes of season two of “Mister Chris and Friends” premier on Vermont PBS and are available for streaming Monday, November 11, at 10 a.m. The Mister Chris and Friends Band performs at noon on Saturday, November 2 at Higher Ground in South Burlington.

A sneak peak into the second season of “Mister Chris and Friends”

Left to right: Dan Zanes, Claudia Eliaza, Chris Dorman and Raphael Kindar-Martin

François Clemmons

Thanksgiving Leftover Pie

In my family, we love Thanksgiving food — juicy turkey, tender stuffing, tangy cranberry sauce, creamy mashed potatoes, crunchy green beans, and subtly sweet roasted squash. Every year, I look for interesting ways to use the abundant leftovers once the main event is over.

After watching The Great British Baking Show, I became enamored with the idea of making a turkey pot pie with hot-water crust pastry, which traditionally calls for a mixture of butter and lard. (I substituted solid vegetable shortening for the lard because I was unable to find the lard locally.) A mixture of bread flour, which has extra gluten, and all-purpose flour helps give the pastry its sturdy texture.

This crust breaks so many “known” pastry rules. Keep everything as cold as possible? Instead, this recipe relies upon working with it hot, before it becomes too crumbly. While most pastry gets tough when you work it too much,

INGREDIENTS

Hot-Water Crust Pastry:

• 1/3 cup water

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup bread flour

• 1 egg, plus 1 teaspoon water (for egg wash)

Filling:

• 2 cups prepared stuffing

• 1 cup cranberry sauce

• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped roasted turkey

• 1 1/2 cups roasted butternut squash

• 1 cup steamed or roasted green beans

• 2 cups mashed potatoes

hot-water crust pastry is very forgiving and can be kneaded and pressed into a pan (as long as you work quickly, so it doesn’t get too cool). You can even patch broken bits without much trouble. Finally, the crust comes out sturdy, so you can use heavier and wetter fillings without it falling apart. As a bonus, it keeps its shape when you take it out of the pan, which is great for presentation.

Use whatever leftovers you like in this pie, or go a nontraditional route and serve up this fun, layered dish as a Thanksgiving day main course. For this version, I made the fillings just for the pie — simple, oven-roasted turkey breast with a delectable combination of parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme; butternut squash; and creamy mashed potatoes. If you have homemade stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce on hand,

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper with edges overhanging to make a sling that you can later use to pull out the pie. Lightly coat with cooking spray.

2. To make the crust, melt the butter and shortening in a pan along with 1/3 cup water, and put the dry ingredients into a large bowl. When the butter mixture is very hot, pour it into the dry ingredients and use either your hands or a dough hook on a stand mixer to make a smooth dough. (This should only take a minute or two.)

3. While it is still hot, press twothirds of the dough evenly into the loaf pan, forming a smooth surface about 1/4-inch thick. (Put the remaining crust under a small bowl to keep it warm — this will be your top crust.)

4. Layer the fillings evenly to the top of the pan — stuffing,

by all means, use them. I took the easy route and used store-bought versions of those components.

The pie would also be excellent with Brussels sprouts, mashed root vegetables in place of mashed potatoes, or maybe even leftover green bean casserole with crunchy fried onions.

I made a couple of versions of this pie, one in a 4-inch deep, 9-inch round tart pan, and one in a loaf pan. We all preferred the loaf pan; its depth made for great layers and it was easier to slice. Definitely don’t skip the parchment paper sling, which creates “handles” to lift the finished product out of the pan.

Top this dish with extra cranberry sauce and warm gravy, or enjoy it cold in place of a routine turkey sandwich, and you’ll be the envy of your coworkers. K

cranberry sauce, turkey, butternut squash, green beans and mashed potatoes. (You may have leftover filling.)

5. Roll the remaining crust out between two sheets of parchment paper to about the size of the top of the loaf pan. Carefully transfer the crust to the top of the pie, and seal by using a fork to crimp around the edges. If desired, use the extra crust to make decorations for the top (like small pumpkin or leaf cut-outs). Beat egg with 1 teaspoon water. Cut two to three vent holes in the top crust and brush with the egg wash.

6. Bake for 30 minutes at 400 degrees, then lower the temperature to 350 and bake for another 45 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and place on a cooling rack for at least 10 minutes before carefully lifting the loaf out of the pan and transferring to a serving tray. Cut into thick slices and serve with more cranberry sauce and gravy, if desired.

A

meal enveloped in British hot-water crust pastry

What Do Parents Need to Know About ADHD?

Ageneration ago, children who didn’t perform well in school were often labeled as “unmotivated” or “daydreamers.” Others who couldn’t sit still or misbehaved in class were sometimes seen as fidgety, lazy or the products of bad parenting. Today, health care professionals recognize that those behaviors can be symptoms of AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, a condition that affects 9 percent of children ages 6 to 12.

The good news is, there are now reliable screening tools and questionnaires that parents, teachers and other caregivers can use, in conjunction with health care providers, to determine whether a child has ADHD. Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital, discusses when and how to treat the condition based on newly released guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

KIDS VT: What is ADHD?

LEWIS FIRST: ADHD is a chronic neurological condition in which the brain makes it difficult for children and adults to control their attentiveness, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity. You don’t need to have all three symptoms to have ADHD, which is why it’s sometimes called attention deficit disorder, or ADD. If a child demonstrates problems with attention, hyperactivity or impulsivity for more than six months in at least two different settings, such as at home, in school and during team practices, then it’s worth bringing to the attention of a health care professional.

KVT: What causes it?

LF: ADHD can have a genetic component and run in families. Environmental factors may also play a role, including prenatal exposure to alcohol and nicotine, exposure to lead as a child, and head injuries. We may not know exactly what causes a child to have ADHD, but we do know it is not caused by vaccines, food additives, allergies, video games or eating too much sugar.

KVT: How early can ADHD be diagnosed?

LF: Between ages 4 and 12 is the prime time to identify it, particularly if children are struggling in school. It is possible, though rare, to diagnose it by age 4. Before that age, the vast majority of kids are going to be hyperactive in association with their growing brains, and many of these childen will not end up having ADHD. But if a child 4 to 6 years old is demonstrating six or more symptoms of ADHD for over 6 months in more than one setting — and a health care professional can provide parents and teachers with that checklist — then it is possible for them to be diagnosed early.

KVT: How is ADHD treated?

LF: The best success occurs when a coordinated plan is put in place that includes medication and behavioral modifications that involve teachers, counselors, coaches and other adults in that child’s life, all working in coordination with a health care provider and the child’s family.

KVT: What do you mean by “behavioral modifications”?

LF: Behavioral counselors can give parents tools for reinforcing positive behaviors and dissuading negative ones. This may involve using time-outs and withdrawing privileges to stop unwanted behaviors, and offering privileges and rewards for positive behaviors. Other behavioral modifications include keeping the child on a regular daily schedule, cutting down on distractions, setting easy goals, limiting choices and helping the child stay on task.

KVT: Can ADHD be treated without medication?

LF: The evidence is very clear that it cannot be done effectively after age 6 without medication. Behavioral modification alone may result in some improvements. However, when it comes to kids focusing on school and getting things done, the research is clear: Beginning at age 6, medication is recommended in addition to behavioral management.

KVT: Why are some parents wary of ADHD meds?

LF: Many of these meds are in the amphetamine family, which means side effects such as decreased appetite, weight loss, trouble sleeping, social withdrawal and, occasionally, blood pressure problems can occur if the dosage is not right. But these side effects are easily reversible by changing the medication or dosage. There is now a variety of ADHD medications available — from short-acting to long-acting, some that are stimulants,

others that are not. They will not make kids addicted but will help them focus. All should be started at a low dose to ensure the benefits of using a medication outweigh any side effects, should they start to occur.

KVT: At what age do you recommend medicating children?

LF: The new AAP guidelines say that before age 6 children should not be medicated. Before then, children will benefit from behavioral modifications alone. And, it’s worth noting that only 10 percent of children identified by teachers in preschool as potentially having ADHD eventually turn out to have it.

KVT: Can ADHD be mistaken for or mask other conditions?

LF: Yes. Health care professionals are being advised to look for other chronic conditions with similar symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, sleep disorders or learning disabilities. ADHD is not itself a learning disability, but it does make it more difficult for a child to learn. In teenagers, it’s worth looking to see if there’s substance abuse as well. Also, if a child is not diagnosed with ADHD but is still having difficulty in school, there may be another explanation, such as needing glasses, having trouble hearing, being dyslexic or having other learning challenges.

KVT: Are there common myths about ADHD?

LF: Yes. Kids will not outgrow ADHD, and it is not something that will go away once they have it under control. It is not a function of poor parenting. Also, medications don’t “cure” kids of ADHD. As they get older, children may become less hyperactive but still have issues with attention. So, there are adults who benefit from staying on medication their whole lives. Finally, there’s a myth that only boys get ADHD. While boys outnumber girls by two or three to one (depending on the study), girls get ADHD, too. K

BY HEATHER FITZGERALD • ILLUSTRATIONS BY JEANIE WILLIAMS

Identifying Trees During Stick Season

There’s usually a point each November when Vermont seemingly transforms from fall to winter overnight. One day the leaves are vibrant hues of red and yellow. Then the wind blows or the rain falls, and the trees turn brown and become almost bare. It’s easy to disparage stick season, but there’s still beauty to be found.

I love looking closely at deciduous trees this time of year. One of my professors in graduate school said he preferred identifying trees without the “distraction” of the leaves. And I agree; the individuality of their bark and buds is truly amazing. (Yes, there are buds in the fall! They just swell and become more visible in the spring.)

I try to reign in my arboreal enthusiasm around my 11-year-old son, Jesse, lest I overshare and lose his interest. My strategy for helping him learn about things he may not want to take as much time with as I do? If a tree catches your

eye, break a twig o and put it in your pocket. Then, use this quick-and-dirty guide I’ve created to help identify Vermont’s most common deciduous trees using their buds and bark once you get home. You will figure out what kind of tree it is, and your kids will see you modeling curiosity and following through. They may also become more interested in tree ID once they’re back in the warmth of the house.

One interesting tidbit: It’s much easier to identify trees in the woods than it is on the street. Street trees can include all kinds of horticultural varieties and species that you won’t find in the woods.

Once you have learned to recognize di erent trees, they become, in the words of nature writer Donald Culross Peattie, “like the faces of your friends."

Heather Fitzgerald teaches field ecology and environmental science at the Community College of Vermont.

GUIDE TO THE MOST COMMON DECIDUOUS TREES IN VERMONT’S UPLAND FORESTS

It can be easy to get lost in the details, so I have put the feature(s) I find easiest to clue in on in parentheses at the end of each description.

If the branches are opposite (two buds or branches sprout from the same spot on the twig or branch — think of two arms coming off the twig from the same point), there are only two trees it can be — maple or ash:

WHITE ASH is our most common ash. It has big, thick twigs with buds that look a bit like deer antler nubbins. Bark is described as ropy or braided. (OPPOSITE/BUDS/BARK)

There are a lot of maple species. The most common are:

SUGAR MAPLES have brown, pointy buds that remind me of pencil tips. (OPPOSITE/ BUDS)

RED MAPLES have rounder, red buds. The bark breaks in concentric circles, which, with a little imagination, look sort of like bulls-eyes. (OPPOSITE/ BUDS/BARK)

If the branches are alternate (buds or branches sprout in a staggered pattern on twigs and branches) there are more possibilities:

PAPER BIRCH, also called white birch, has unmistakably bright white, smooth bark that peels from side to side. (BARK)

But you could confuse it with other lightcolored trees:

BEECH—this smooth bark is grayer and doesn’t peel (though if the tree has beech bark scale disease, it can have a coating of white scale insects or cankers on the bark). Buds are orange and, with imagination, look like cigars. Pale orange leaves can hang on for much of the winter. (BUDS/ BARK)

ASPENS (also called poplars) have variable amounts of greenishwhite bark—sometimes just at the top of the tree — but even when they are whitish farther down the tree, they are not as white and have pockmarks with vertical lines through them. Buds can be large and sticky. (BUDS/BARK)

The texture of YELLOW BIRCH, another type of birch, will remind you of paper birch, but this one’s more of a golden color. If you peel off a tiny bit, you’ll smell wintergreen. (BARK)

Then there are the alternate trees with darker bark:

There’s RED OAK, where, with imagination, you can see snaking lines that look like ski trails in the bark. Oaks have a lot of buds bunched at the ends of their twigs. (BUDS/BARK)

BLACK CHERRY twigs look a lot like birch twigs, but they have a bitter almond smell. Its bark is said to look like burnt potato chips. (BARK)

This list will get you pretty far, but if you want to learn about evergreens, shrubby understory trees, and unusual species, easyto-use books include Winter Tree Finder by May Watts and Tom Watts (which fits in a back pocket!) and A Beginner’s Guide to Recognizing Trees of the Northeast by Mark Mikolas.

HEATHER FITZGERALD

Jesse with a black cherry tree, left, and yellow birch tree, right

May We Suggest... Shop local for gifts that will stand the test of time

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG, ALISON NOVAK, KEN PICARD & BRETT ANN STANCIU

Imagine the following: You buy a present for your child — something they’ve been begging for since last year. Within one week, one day or one hour of said gift being unwrapped, it’s abandoned in the corner of the room, never to be touched again.

It’s a scenario that has happened to even the most savvy, well-intentioned parent.

Enter our gift guide. On these pages, you’ll find our writers’ recommendations for gifts that have staying power. From kitchen tools that will develop kids’ culinary skills to ski passes that will help them stay active and oline, we hope the suggestions guide you in your quest for quality this giving season.

Domestic Gifts

When my son, Theo, was just a few months old, I took him upstairs for a nap, leaving my then-3-year-old daughter, Mira, in the kitchen. When I came back downstairs a few minutes later, I discovered Mira, standing precariously on a chair, bellied up to our butcher-block island. She was digging a sharp knife into an apple.

“I’m making apple cider,” she announced, flashing a proud smile. It was at this moment — right after I gingerly removed the knife from Mira’s small fist — that I realized the need for kid-friendly kitchen tools, ones that Mira could use without the threat of an emergency room visit. I invested in a few items that I found in a Montessori catalog: a serrated nylon knife with a blunt tip and an easy-to-hold wavy stainless-steel fruit and vegetable chopper. These simple tools allowed Mira to be culinarily creative, without risking life and limb. (Now Mira, a seventh grader, whips up spaghetti carbonara, honey-wheat bread and applesauce on her own, so I’d like to think they also helped her develop a sense of confidence in the kitchen.)

Italian educator Maria Montessori, the founder of the philosophy of education that bears her name, had plenty to say about the importance of empowering kids to do things for themselves. “Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed,” she said. Another gem from Montessori: “The child has a mind able to absorb knowledge. He has the power to teach himself.”

Here are gifts that encourage kids to learn by doing — and will likely boost their self-e cacy, too.

— ALISON NOVAK

Baby doll & play cleaning supplies

How does the Mayo Clinic recommend preparing a sibling-to-be for a new baby? “Give your older child a doll so that he or she can be a caregiver, too.” A baby doll from French company Corolle was my daughter’s favorite when she was a toddler. They look realistic (without being creepy); are soft-bodied, which makes them great for snuggling; and have a trademark vanilla scent that’s sweet without being cloying. Jamie Two Coats stocks a wide array of the dolls, as well as Corolle diapers, pacifiers and a bottle and bib set, so your child can tend to his or her baby while you tend to yours.

If your older child needs something else to keep busy while you take care of his or her younger sibling, consider a play vacuum or cleaning set from Melissa and Doug, or a small brush/dustpan combo, good training for when he or she is old enough to really pitch in.

Corolle baby dolls ($40 for 12-inch doll, $18 for mini doll)

Vacuum cleaner play set ($29.95), Dust! Sweep! Mop! Set ($29.95), wooden brush and metal dust pan ($24) at Jamie Two Coats’ Toy Shop (54 Falls Road, Shelburne and on Facebook)

Kitchen tools

If your kids enjoy helping out in the kitchen, like mine do, consider arming them with some key cooking-related gear that will make the experience smoother and less stressful. Kid peelers and knives help little fingers stay intact, while small aprons ensure clothes don’t get ruined. Cookie cutters, which Kiss the Cook stocks in a wide array of colors and shapes — including dinosaurs, cowboy boots and snowflakes — make great stocking stu ers.

Kids’ chef knives and peeler from Le Petit Chef and Kuhn Rikon ($11.99$34.99), aprons from Now Designs and Le Petit Chef ($18.99-$27.99) and cookie cutters ($1.49-$2.49) at Kiss the Cook in Burlington and Middlebury (kissthecook.net)

DIY Beauty product kits

The make-your-own-slime trend turned countless kids into budding scientists. But what do you do with the sparkly, goopy, sticky stu after making it (besides leaving it to ooze into the rug or couch cushions)?

For the tween in your life who loves whipping up concoctions, consider a kit that allows them to make something that they can actually use.

These lip balm and lotion kits include everything you need to create your own personal care products at home, in about half an hour. Bonus: both the balm and the lotion are made with natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, shea butter and hemp oil. Check out Burlington-based Lunaroma (lunaroma. com) for essential oils to add a signature scent to the finished product.

Revival Homestead Supply lip balm and lotion kits, $25-30 at Birdfolk Collective in Winooski and Waterbury (birdfolkcollective.com)

Kids’ snow shovel and flashlight

Why should parents be the only ones digging out the driveway when the flakes pile up? With a kids’ snow shovel, your mini-me can get in on the action, even if you’re the one doing most of the heavy lifting. A flashlight, meanwhile, is a versatile gift — good for telling stories in the dark, reading past bedtime and retrieving the beloved action figure that’s fallen under the bed. This one from Woodbury Mountain Toys is battery-free, which means no rummaging around in the junk drawer for spare double-As.

Paricon toy snow shovel ($7.99), Kidoozie dog-shaped flashlight at Woodbury Mountain Toys in Montpelier (woodburymountaintoys.com)

Experiential Gifts

Last winter, when my 13- and 15-year-old sons asked for night ski passes to Bolton Valley, my first thought was, Absolutely not! We already had sprung for passes to Stowe, and the idea of multiple ski passes flagrantly violated the frugality instilled in me growing up. My siblings and I weren’t even allowed to rip open presents. We had to slice the tape with a razor blade so the wrapping paper could be smoothed, saved and used again. By that standard, one ski pass screams luxury.

But my husband and I bought the night passes — $199 each — and here’s why: In addition to small gifts, we give each of our kids one big gift each Christmas. Past big presents have included the American Girl doll Kit Kittredge; an iPad; a Kindle and enough LEGO sets over the years to build a city, complete with hotels, restaurants, airport and emergency services. Now, Kit is in a closet, the iPad and Kindle have been snubbed for smartphones and the LEGO city reduced to rubble. The night pass, though, is a gift of fresh air. Because Bolton is closer to us than Stowe, my sons can get there to ski after school. The pass provides a license to exercise, socialize (face-to-face!) and — though my kids don’t fully appreciate it — relish Vermont’s beauty. It rescues them from their virtual worlds and flings them into the real one, and it’s the real one at its best: on a mountain, under a starry sky. Given the choice between gifting things or experiences, I’d rather give an experience. Things lose their luster and turn to clutter. Experiences burnish themselves into lasting memories.

— MARY ANN LICKTEIG

Hands-on Dairy Farm Tour

Visitors to Rochester’s Liberty Hill Farm arrive in time for morning chores. They can bottle-feed a calf, bring grain to calves, watch the farm’s 100 registered Holsteins get milked by machine and, if they want, try milking a cow by hand. Bonus: The farm also has chickens, cats and kittens. Asia Labejsza-Kennett, mom of three and a former early childhood educator who married into farm life, serves as tour guide. “Coming from a nonfarming background, I can kind of anticipate a lot of the questions people have,” she says. The 1.5-hour tour, o ered yearround, costs $10 per person — kids under 2 are free — and benefits the nonprofit Liberty Hill Center for Agricultural Education. To reserve, email asia@libertyhillfarm.com.

Theater Tickets

If Netflix marathons are making your kid loopy, consider live theater. Vermont stages o er many opportunities to introduce children to this intimate, artistic, fleeting experience. Here are a few: Kids are invited to sing, dance, clap and cheer with friends from “PAW Patrol,” “Dora the Explorer,” “Bubble Guppies” and other shows when the musical Nick Jr. Live!: Move to the Music comes to Burlington’s Flynn Center for the Performing Arts Feb. 4 and 5. Tickets range from $22.50 to the $107.25 VIP ticket,

which includes premium seats, admission to a meet-and-greet with select stars, a photo op and souvenirs. Tickets are available at flynntix.org.

Lyric Theatre Company not only stages live musicals at the Flynn, it showcases Vermonters in every one. It will present six performances of family-friendly Matilda the Musical April 2-5. If you aren’t in it, get a ticket before they’re gone at flynntix.org.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar has inched its way o the page and onto the stage. The classic children’s tale is one of four Eric Carle stories told by 75 puppets in The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show. It comes to Rutland’s Paramount Theatre for a 3 p.m. and a 5 p.m. performance on Feb. 29. Tickets, $22, are for sale at paramountvt.org.

Cooking Classes

What could be more delicious — and useful — than a cooking class?

Robert Barral, chef and co-owner of Café Provence, welcomes cooks of all abilities — including kids ages 7 and up — to the culinary theater at his Brandon restaurant where he and fellow chefs teach every Wednesday. The French-born Barral has worked for Four Seasons hotels in the U.S. and Canada and was executive chef at the New England Culinary Institute. Other teachers include a Mexican chef and a pastry chef. Three foods are presented in each class, typically an appetizer or soup, an entrée and a dessert. Tastings follow each demo. Students don’t leave hungry, Barral says, “because the tastings are su cient for a meal.” Classes cost $50 each; buy three and get one free. Find the schedule at cafeprovencevt.com. Purchase by calling 247-9997.

Spa Day

Parent-and-child mani-pedis provide precious one-on-one time for kids and caregivers amid pampering for both. The Spa at Spruce Peak in Stowe o ers an entire kids’ menu of services for clients ages 6 to 14. The 25-minute, $25 Traditional Chillax Session teaches kids to relax and may include deep breathing, yoga stretches, a

Experiential Gifts

CONTINUED FROM P.

face mask and hand and foot massages. Also on the menu: Mini Me Facial, $75; Mini Me Massage, $75; Princess Manicure, $25; Princess Pedicure, $35 and more. For older kids, the Clarifying Teen Facial unclogs pores and speeds skin cell turnover, $100 for 25 minutes, $165 for 50. Clients 15 and older may enjoy all spa amenities, which include eucalyptus steam rooms, dry saunas, whirlpools, a fitness center and a heated outdoor pool warm enough to swim in when the snow flies. To book appointments, call 760-4782.

Ski to the Cabin

You don’t have to be a guest at Trapp Family Lodge to enjoy its 2,500 acre Stowe property. Day passes — $10 to $25 — and season passes — $50 to $450 — allow cross-country and backcountry skiing, as well as snowshoeing, on 100 kilometers of trails. Rental equipment and lessons are available. Cross-country skiers are encouraged to make the

Old-fashioned gifts

Too many kids’ toys and games these days are designed to become obsolete: They have complicated and timeconsuming rules, must be assembled and played in one or a few configurations, require batteries and, worst of all, become landfill material the moment a single piece or accessory is lost.

When I reflect on the countless hours I spent alone in the basement playroom of my childhood home, the toys and games that held my attention the longest and stimulated my imagination the most all shared some common characteristics: They didn’t have a fixed start or finish but involved open-ended play. They had no predetermined problems to solve or goals to achieve. And, nearly without exception, all were toys and games that would be recognizable to people of my parents’ or grandparents’ generations.

Though there are dozens of classic kids’ gifts to choose from, some are more suitable than others for the winter holiday season. Bicycles are a great gift, but usually, kids can’t ride them in Vermont from December through March, which is pushing their upper limits of delayed gratification. Ditto for inline skates and skateboards — that is, until the new Talent Skatepark opens in Burlington in early 2020.

Here are some classic toys and games that never seem to go out of style.

— KEN PICARD

“exhilarating”

(read three miles, with hills) trip to Slayton Pasture Cabin where a break awaits next to a crackling

fire. Warm your mittens on the hearth while you enjoy homemade soups, sandwiches, hot chocolate or a well-earned chocolate chip cookie. Wrote one young visitor in the cabin guest book: “I did it for the cookie.” Buy season passes at trappfamily.com/outdoor-center. htm.

Wooden building blocks, dominoes and train sets

What’s great about these toys is that they’re simple, durable and usable even if a piece gets lost or chewed up by pets. For example, there are multiple tabletop games that can be played with a set of dominoes, but kids of all ages will enjoy setting them up in rows and knocking them down. Sets of ecofriendly building blocks (21 pieces for $35.90), dominoes ($23.20) and wooden train sets (Circle Set starts at $30.50)

are all made locally and sold by Maple Landmark in Middlebury, which sources the vast majority of its sustainable wood products in Vermont and Maine.

Ping-Pong table

Table tennis, which can be played by up to four people at a time, is a great foul-weather game that helps kids develop and hone their hand-eye coordination. Admittedly, a Ping-Pong table consumes a lot of space, but most can be folded and stored — or serve double duty as craft tables. New tables start at $100 at Dick’s Sporting Goods, though it’s worth putting out feelers for used ones on Front Porch Forum. In September, I scored a free one from Mike Yantachka, my House representative from Charlotte, while he was cleaning out his garage. Only in Vermont!

Handheld digital microscope

This gift is a modern twist on the classic microscope found in most high school science classrooms. Gone are the days of handling sharp-edged glass slides and aiming a light beam accurately into a mirror to see microscopic objects. With today’s handheld digital

with a USB or adaptor cables for connection to a laptop or smartphone, and usually can be mounted on a stand. New York magazine’s The Strategist recommends the Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, which can be purchased online for about $40.

Etch A Sketch

This classic toy, invented in 1960 by Frenchman André Cassagnes, is one of the best-selling toys of the 20th century, along with the Slinky, Matchbox cars and Play-Doh, whose memory-triggering scent is so recognizable it’s been

microscopes, which have up to 1,000X magnification, kids can have hours of fun exploring everyday items around the house and yard such as flower petals, sea shells, dead bugs or even their own fingernails. Digital microscopes come

trademarked. The elegance of the Etch A Sketch is its simplicity: a portable, self-contained and erasable drawing screen, controlled by two knobs, which encourages kids to create something out of nothing — from drawing a basic staircase to a likeness of the Taj Mahal. In an age when most children already spend too much time on screens, here’s one that won’t make parents tear their hair out. $26.99 at Homeport in Burlington.

Twister

Another classic game from the 1960s, Twister is about as low-tech as they come: a large plastic mat with six rows of colored circles and a spinner that directs players where to put their hands and feet (e.g., “Left foot green”). Whoever falls over is eliminated from the round and the last person standing is the winner. (But really, who ever keeps score in this game?) Fun for kids and adults, Twister builds strength, balance and coordination, and can be played indoors or out. $23 at Kidstructive Fun, University Mall in South Burlington.

Books

The winter my oldest daughter turned 6, she begged me to read chapter after chapter of The Secret Garden Midway through a second, exhausting pregnancy, I was happy to lie on the couch and read aloud while she watched snow drift down through the windows. My daughter lived in Mary Lennox’s world, picturing herself as a lonely English orphan who was enchanted with a robin and the discovery of a garden hidden behind high walls.

Reading widens a child’s imagination. And while imagination isn’t necessarily reflected in standardized test scores, using and developing it deepens a child’s ability to empathize with others and to envision their own unique pathway through life.

If your child isn’t an enthusiastic reader, don’t despair. New York Times Book Review editors Pamela Paul and Maria Russo offer reassuring advice in their newly released guide How to Raise a Reader: Children can learn to love reading at many ages. The authors offer pro tips and detailed reading lists organized by age and genre. Above all, Paul and Russo emphasize the importance of making books part of family life. Even if it’s only for 15 minutes every evening, make reading a household habit.

The book also debunks six popular myths about childhood reading. My favorite takeaway— as a mother of two daughters who were both late readers — is “the age your child learns to read is not actually related to future reading skills or overall cognitive ability.” Your child, in fact, may suddenly begin to love reading as a teenager — as my daughters, much to my surprised delight, did.

Books make terrific presents. Below, find titles from Vermont authors that would make great additions to your holiday shopping list. (Thanks to Sandy Scott, co-owner at the Galaxy Bookshop in Hardwick, for lending her expertise.)

— BRETT ANN STANCIU

For little ones: Peep and Ducky It’s Snowing!, by David Martin, illustrated by David Walker ($14.99)

Upbeat writing paired with cheerful illustrations make for a book that’s fun to read aloud and gets the kiddie crowd cracking up.

Also check out Peep and Ducky board books ($6.99).

For picture book fans:

Nine Months: Before a Baby is Born, by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Jason Chin ($18.99): This book about pregnancy for the whole family combines Chin’s detailed illustrations with Paul’s storyline about a soon-to-be big sister and her parents.

The Champlain Monster, written and illustrated by Jeff Danziger ($24.95):

Two young siblings discover the secret of Vermont’s famed lake creature — but decide to keep it to themselves.

Night Job, by Karen Hesse, illustrated by G. Brian Karas ($16.99):

A warm story of a school custodian and his young son who spend a Friday night working together.

For middle grade readers:

Right as Rain, by Lindsey Stoddard ($16.99): Stoddard’s second novel traces a young girl and her parents’ move from Vermont to New York City as they struggle with their grief over the death of the girl’s brother. School Library Journal notes the novel provides young readers with “an insightful, accessible introduction to privilege, homelessness, and gentrification.”

Road Trip with Max and His Mom, by Linda Urban, illustrated by Katie Kath ($16.99):

This sweet and sensitive story about a family with divorced parents — a sequel to Weekends with Max and His Dad — finds the third grader and his mom traveling to a family reunion to celebrate his great-great-aunt’s 100th birthday party.

Lost in the Antarctic: The Doomed Voyage of the Endurance, by Tod Olson ($7.99):

Adventure lovers will be riveted by Olson’s fourth installment of his nonfiction series about explorers.

For teens:

Light It Up, by Kekla Magoon ($18.99): Vermont College of Fine Arts instructor Magoon’s newest novel revolves around an unarmed 13-year-old girl fatally shot by a police officer. Told in a series of vignettes with different points of view, the book confronts complex — and timely — questions. The Place Between Breaths, by An Na ($17.99):

This YA title explores the scary terrain of mental illness through 16-year-old Grace, who navigates her mother’s sickness, her father’s determination to discover a cure for schizophrenia and her own struggles with the disease. How to Be a Good Creature: A Memoir in Thirteen Animals, by Sy Montgomery, illustrated by Rebecca Green ($20):

Naturalist Montgomery shares memories of swimming with electric eels and how she learned forgiveness from an ermine in this enchanting and educational read.

For parents:

Black is the Body: Stories From My Grandmother’s Time, My Mother’s Time, and Mine, by Emily Bernard ($25.95):

University of Vermont professor Bernard’s memoir in essays explores formative experiences in her life — from growing up in the South, surviving a random stabbing in a New Haven, Conn., coffee shop, adopting twin baby girls from Ethiopia and teaching college students in Burlington.

Where to buy books?

The Green Mountain State boasts numerous independent bookstores — friendly places with staff who encourage visitors to browse and are eager to offer gift suggestions. In Chittenden County, check out Phoenix Books in Burlington and Essex, the Crow Bookshop in Burlington, and the Flying Pig Bookstore in Shelburne. In central Vermont, indies include Bridgeside Books in Waterbury, Bear Pond Books in Montpelier, Next Chapter Bookstore in Barre and the Norwich Bookstore in Norwich. Other notable stores around the state: Galaxy Bookshop in Hardwick, Boxcar & Caboose in St. Johnsbury, Yankee Bookshop in Woodstock, the Vermont Book Shop in Middlebury and Northshire Bookstore in Manchester Center — which boasts an impressive children’s room that’s worth the trip. K

Hush Little Baby

The Lullaby Project helps parents express their love in words and music

BY ALISON NOVAK

In a classroom at the Lund Family Center in Burlington, Lund resident and mom of three Julia* waded through the messy, nonlinear process of writing a song. Julia had already worked with instructors from Writers for Recovery to brainstorm ideas for lyrics to a lullaby for her children. Now it was time to put the words to music.

Helping her was Mary Bonhag, a soprano who has performed with the American Symphony Orchestra and is co-artistic director of Marshfield’s Scrag Mountain Music. She asked Julia to sing the words she had so far.

“Don’t laugh. I’m not a singer — other than in the shower,” Julia told her, before reading in a soft, melodic voice from the lined paper on the table.

“Close your eyes, it’s sleepy time. / Now it’s time to rest your little baby breath. / You’re so strong, so reach the sky. / Your baby blues will touch their souls.”

“Oh, that’s so beautiful,” Bonhag said. “Let’s sing it together.”

The two joined voices, with Bonhag strumming along on a mandolin, stopping midway to make sure she got the words and rhythm right.

“It just popped in my head on the way back from daycare,” Julia said. “I don’t know where it came from.”

The two women have been brought together by the Lullaby Project, a program of Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute that pairs professional musicians with pregnant women and new parents to write bedtime songs for their babies. Launched in 2011 at Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx, the project now has partnerships with 10 sites in New York City and 30 more around the world — from Seoul, South Korea, to Lubbock, Texas. The project is rooted in the idea that creating, singing and sharing lullabies promotes maternal health, child development, and parent-child attachment.

Evan Premo, Bonhag’s husband and codirector of Scrag Mountain Music — a Marshfield-based nonprofit that brings

chamber music to Vermont communities — learned about the Lullaby Project years ago while doing a post-graduate fellowship at Carnegie Hall. This spring, he and Bonhag figured out a way to bring it to Vermont.

Bonhag and Scrag Mountain Music managing director Lara Mones attended Project Lullaby training and joined forces with Bess O’Brien, cofounder of Writers for Recovery, an organization that provides writing workshops for people recovering from substance abuse.

O’Brien suggested taking Project Lullaby to Lund’s residential program, where pregnant or parenting moms live with their young children while receiving treatment for issues related to substance abuse and mental health. O’Brien had recently done an eight-week writing workshop with mothers there.

The three organizations officially agreed to collaborate, deciding to run the

workshop during a preexisting playgroup time. It was a good fit because Lund is “always looking for innovative practices” that aid in recovery, said the 125-year-old nonprofit’s communications and foundations coordinator Charlotte Blend.

The first two sessions were devoted to lyrics. O’Brien and Writers for Recovery cofounder Gary Lee Miller provided writing prompts that could be turned into lullabies. The six participants, some who came with their babies or toddlers in tow, completed sevenminute free-write sessions on topics like “Your mom is the person who…, ” “I’ll be there for you,” and “What I hope for you.”

“We don’t want people to actually think too much,” said O’Brien. “We just want the creative juices to flow.”

O’Brien and Miller highlighted lines in each participants’ work that they thought were particularly fitting for a song. The participants listened to recordings

Scrag Mountain Music will lead a community lullaby workshop, open to the public, at the Brown Public Library in Northfield on Tuesday, November 5 at 7 p.m.

Fall concerts featuring childhoodinspired music and the lullabies created by Lund residents, featuring Bonhag, Premo, harpist Jacqueline Kerrod and viola player Jason Amos, take place on Friday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. at Burlington City Hall’s Contois Auditiorium (149 Church St., Burlington), Saturday, November 9 at 7:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Church of Montpelier (130 Main St., Montpelier) and Sunday, November 10 at 4 p.m., at the Warren United Church (339 Main St., Warren).

of other songs created by the Lullaby Project, while noting the various moods, styles and genres of music. And they read their own writing aloud and shared what they loved about each other’s work.

On a Tuesday morning in midOctober, the third session of the Lullaby Project, Bonhag and Premo arrived to help parents set their words to music. The group sat in a circle on the playroom rug.

I’ve made mistakes, I know it’s true, but you’re so strong so reach the sky.

LYRICS FROM A LUND RESIDENT’S ORIGINAL LULLABY

Evan Premo helps a mother compose a lullaby

After a musical greeting — in which participants sang their own name and the name of their children — Bonhag checked in with the group. “How’s it going?” she asked.

“It’s nice to be able to just write without trying to rhyme,” said Julia. “It’s been helpful to have writers pick out things they think would make a good song.”

Another mom, holding her baby son, expressed her apprehension about singing aloud. “I sing to him all the time,” she said, “but I’m scared to sing with someone in front of me.”

That’s natural, the musicians reassured her.

Premo set up an electric keyboard in the playroom, while Bonhag moved to a downstairs classroom with a mandolin. Each participant had 20 minutes to work with one of the musicians, who made musical notations on the lyrics and recorded snippets of the song as they went.

An hour later, the participants came back together on the rug — amid fussy babies and a playing toddler — to share their progress. They’d have one

more session to work on the music and another to finalize the arrangement with Bonhag and Premo, plus a harpist and a viola player.

Julia was first. “You’ve got to sing it with me,” she said to Bonhag.

Bonhag agreed. “Do you want to say anything?” she asked.

“Not really… Don’t laugh,” Julia said.

“No, I would never,” another mother said.

One stanza of Julia’s song had changed slightly since she had first shared the lyrics that day.

“I’ve made mistakes, I know it’s true. /But you’re so strong so reach the sky,” the new part read.

When Bonhag and Julia finished singing, the room broke into applause. One mom, cradling her 11-week-old son in her arms, had tears in her eyes.

“You made me cry,” she said.

Bonhag said Scrag Mountain Music hopes to find funding to continue the project at Lund and expand to other sites in Vermont. Participants will receive an audio recording of their finished lullaby but, from her perspective,

the process of creating the song is where the real power of the project lies.

“Really this is about the mothers’ experience and their growth and their confidence-building and the maternal bond with their babies increasing,” Bonhag said. “The lullaby at the end is a happy byproduct.” K

*Clients’ real names and identifying details have been withheld due to Lund’s privacy policy

In April 2018, record label Decca Gold released Hopes & Dreams: The Lullaby Project, an album inspired by the Lullaby Project, featuring songs in English, Spanish and French, and the voices of luminaries including Natalie Merchant, Rosanne Cash and Patti LuPone. Listen to Hopes & Dreams wherever you stream music.

Listen to other Lullaby Project songs at soundcloud.com/ carnegiehalllullaby.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF LUND

A Lund resident brainstorms lyrics

Mary Bonhag strums her mandolin, putting music to words

A Sense of Security

Retired principal collects homemade blankets for hospitalized kids BY

MARY ANN LICKTEIG

On March 24, 2018, the day she finished radiation treatment for breast cancer, Joyce Irvine’s grandson Gordon turned 2 months old and was diagnosed with stage four neuroblastoma. The childhood cancer that develops from immature nerve cells had invaded his stomach, liver, kidneys and heart — “like an octopus with tentacles,” Irvine said — and he spent the next eight months in and out of the hospital.

While in Virginia to help her daughter’s family that year, Irvine, who lives in Colchester, saw her grandson come home from the hospital with little quilts. “And I’d be like, ‘I didn’t make that quilt.’ Because I had been a quilter for many, many years.” That’s when her daughter told her, “They’ve got something called Project Linus here.”

The 24-year-old nonprofit organization, Irvine learned, provides homemade blankets to childen who are seriously ill or who have su ered trauma. The retired

teacher and principal — she taught at St. Francis Xavier School in Winooski and worked as principal in Waterville, Belvidere, Burlington, Highgate and Essex Junction — had found her next calling. “When I got breast cancer, I started making quilts again and ran out of people to give them to,” she said. She shipped 20 to the Fairfax County, Va., chapter of Project Linus. “So, Annabelle, their chapter coordinator, called me one day and said, ‘You know Joyce, you’re making enough quilts that you could start your own chapter even if nobody wants to join.’”

And that’s what she did.

Irvine applied to Project Linus March 1. She completed an interview, was accepted on March 15, papered the state with 1,000 fliers to solicit donations and received her first blanket April 1. In the seven months since, 149 “blanketeers” have made 459 blankets for her nascent group, known o cially as the Chittenden, Lamoille and Franklin counties chapter. Project Linus has nearly 300 chapters nationwide, but only one in Vermont. “We’ve been covering border to border,” Irvine said.

So far, all donations have gone to the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital, where they are matched with colorful, donated pillowcases and stu ed animals to transform “very sterile and hospital-like” rooms to inviting, homey, cozy spaces, said Jess Rabidoux, a certified child life

specialist at the hospital. “You can just see the parents relax a little bit” when they see it, she said. Some children seem excited and happy; others close their eyes and snuggle with the blanket, which is theirs to take home.

Rabidoux experienced the positive e ects of Project Linus firsthand in late September, when her 12-year-old daughter went to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain and was admitted to be monitored for appendicitis. The colorful blanket, pillowcase and stu ed animal “made a big di erence to her,” Rabidoux said.

Other individuals and organizations donate blankets to the hospital, so Irvine’s e ort isn’t unique, but it is much appreciated. “We definitely needed her help because we weren’t able to keep up the supply with the demand,” Rabidoux said.

Irvine accepts blankets — from crib

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF JOYCE IRVINE

Joyce Irvine, right, with members of the Quilting Queens of National Life Group

Irvine’s grandson Gordon

to twin size — that are knitted, crocheted, quilted or fleece and designed for children ages 1 to 18. She asks that they be washable, smoke-free and not made of wool, which irritates some children. Donations of yarn, fabric and money are also welcome.

Irvine and her husband, Paul, have put thousands of miles on her 2016 Ford Fusion driving around the state posting fliers, collecting donations and getting to know knitters, seamstresses and quilters, including the Crafty Ladies in St. Albans, a clutch of National Life Group employees who knit during their lunch hour, and the students in a knitting and crocheting class at Champlain Valley Union High School.

Adults with developmental disabilities at Northwestern Counseling & Support Services in St. Albans tie five fleece blankets for Project Linus every month. The crochet group at Birchwood Terrace Rehab and Healthcare in Burlington donated an afghan. While Irvine was there, a resident tearfully approached and said she wanted to help. She had su ered a stroke and can no longer crochet, but she can tie knots, Irvine said. So now, she and other residents complete a fleece blanket every week.

A Brandon woman called to say that a veterans’ center no longer needed the quilts she and her 92-yearold mother made for them and asked if Project Linus would like them. “So my husband and I took a ride down to Brandon . . . and I was expecting about 15 blankets,” Irvine said. “I got 59 blankets.”

“It has just brought out so many beautiful stories that I can’t even express it . . . ” Irvine said. “When I first started, I thought I would get 20 blankets, maybe, a month. And the first

month, we took in 70. And this past month, in September, we took in 174.”

Irvine herself can whip up a panel quilt in two hours. She has been cancer-free for two years. Gordon, who will turn 2 in January, still has lots of doctor appointments and a tiny, inoperable tumor on his aorta. The hope is that it will calcify and present no more threat than a mole, Irvine said.

“He’s a normally developing child who lives with cancer every day.”

Blankets and donated yarn fill Irvine’s dining room, and Project Linus fills her time — easily 40 hours a week — but Irvine, 66, plans to run the chapter as long as she can, she said. “When Gordon was hospitalized, people gave to him and it’s our way, as a family, of paying it forward in his name.”

Find more on Facebook by searching “Project Linus Vermont." Contact Joyce Irvine at jmirvine53@gmail.com.

When I first started, I thought I would get 20 blankets, maybe, a month. And the first month, we took in 70.

JOYCE IRVINE

UP FOR A CHALLENGE?

Embark on this fun, educational civics project for kids!

Players earn points in the Good Citizen Challenge by demonstrating their interest in being good citizens of their communities, their state, their country and their world.

Complete the Challenge by racking up more than 251 points — the number of towns in Vermont. Those who finish will receive a Good Citizen medal and other prizes and will be invited to meet with elected o cials who will recognize their achievements.

The Good Citizen Challenge is nonpartisan; it focuses on our shared American values. And this year, it’s open to groups, too!

It includes quizzes and activities in five subject areas: History, Government, News Literacy, Community Engagement and Advocacy. To complete the Challenge, players must pass a quiz and do at least one activity in each of these areas — and must earn at least 251 points. Each quiz is worth 20 points; the point values of the activities vary. Players can complete activities as individuals or as part of a group. Players choose which activities to complete; there are more than 50!

All players need an adult team leader to sign up. Register at goodcitizenvt.com

A selection of this year’s activities:

History

MEMORIZATION - 50 POINTS

Memorize the Gettysburg Address and take a video of yourself delivering it.

HISTORY KITS - 30 POINTS

Send away for one of the Vermont History Kits from the Vermont Historical Society. Take a picture with the contents of the kit. What was your favorite item from the kit? Why?

LISTEN TO A PODCAST - 10 POINTS

Learn about a Union spy ring in the Confederate capital, Richmond, Va., during the Civil War by listening to “The Ring,” an episode of the podcast “Uncivil.” If you were in Mary Bowser’s position, what would you have done? Write a paragraph to explain.

Government

RECRUIT VOLUNTEERS - 50 POINTS

What volunteer positions does your town have trouble filling? Ask the town clerk, city council, mayor or city manager. Make a poster encouraging residents to volunteer. Ask if city hall, your town o ce, community center or library will hang it up, or find a local business with a bulletin board. Be sure to put the title of the position(s) and the contact information for the volunteer coordinator (and make sure you have their permission). Take a photo or have someone else take a photo of you with your poster.

MAKE A POSTER - 20 POINTS

Make a poster encouraging adults to vote. Scan it or photograph it and send it to us.

PHOTO BY JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR

The 2018 Good Citizens with Gov. Phil Scott in his ceremonial office

News Literacy

DO A TRAINING - 30 POINTS

Do a media training at your local cable access station or Community Media Center. Learn how to use the equipment they make available to the public. Take a photo there.

DRAW A CARTOON - 30 POINTS

Draw a persuasive, or editorial, cartoon that explains why news literacy is important. Scan or photograph it and send it to us.

WATCH THE TV NEWS - 10 POINTS

Watch a local news broadcast on TV, from start to finish, then answer the following questions: What was the most important thing you learned? What was your favorite part of the broadcast? What stories would you like to see TV reporters cover?

Community Engagement

ORGANIZE AN EVENT - 50 POINTS

In 2018, Vermonters Zac Mayo and Lucy Rogers were running against each other for a seat in the Vermont Legislature. After their debate at a library in Je ersonville, they played a duet — Mayo on the guitar, Rogers on cello. This story made national headlines because it showed that the two candidates could put politics aside and work together. Your challenge: Organize an event in which people who disagree with each other on an important issue work together on something that benefits your community. Possible examples include an art project, a musical performance, a community service project or a fundraising drive for a local charity. Document this event with photos or video of people working together. Tell us: How did this experience a ect you and the others who participated?

WRITE A THANK YOU NOTE - 10 POINTS

Choose a local board or organization in your town that’s run by volunteers (for example, the volunteer rescue squad). Write a thank-you note to them. Take a photo of it before you send it.

Advocacy

WRITE A LETTER - 30 POINTS

Write a handwritten letter to an elected o cial, community leader or activist you admire. Ask them to tell you how they first got involved in politics, community service or activism. Ask them what advice they have for you, as a young person. Take a photo of yourself with your letter before you mail it.

READ A BOOK - 30 POINTS

Read the 2020 Vermont Council on Humanities Vermont Reads book, The Hate U Give. Write a paragraph describing what you think of Starr’s decision to speak out.

GOT QUESTIONS?

New This Year:

Earn virtual badges! Players earn a badge for successfully completing the quiz in each category — and for doing certain activities.

50 POINTS

Earned by completing 50-point activities

MEETING MEDAL Awarded to players who attend a municipal meeting

BRIDGE BUILDER

Earned for completing activities that build bridges between ideological opponents

Special thanks to Dan and Jenna Sonneborn and the Evslin Family Foundation for underwriting the app that powers this year’s Challenge, developed by Burlington-based GameTheory.

Strings Attached

Puppeteer Joseph Cashore and THE CASHORE MARIONETTES amaze the audience with a series of scenes taken from everyday life and set to music by Beethoven, Vivaldi, Strauss and Copland. Thursday, November 14, 11 a.m., Highland Center for the Arts, Greensboro and Saturday, November 16, 2 & 8 p.m., Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, Burlington.

Kids VT Spectacular Spectacular Auditions: Creative kiddos vie for spots in the December 7 Spectacular Spectacular youth talent show. Preregister at kidsvt.com to receive a time slot. Higher Ground, Burlington.

Middlebury Turkey Trot & Gobble Wobble 5K and 10K: Runners whet their holiday appetite by hoofing it on a flat, scenic course. Check-in starts at 10 a.m. at the municipal gym; race begins at noon. Middlebury Recreation Center, Middlebury.

Sled Dogs Live at ECHO: The October Siberians Sled Dogs get winter off to a smashing start and greet admiring fans up close. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington.

1 Friday

CHITTENDEN

Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment provides tiny tumblers a chance to run free. Ages 7 and under with caregivers. Greater Burlington YMCA, 10:15-11:45 a.m., $5-12; $15 per family. Info, 862-9622.

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: Toe-tapping tunes captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Info, 660-9346. Preschool Yoga with Danielle: Small ones stretch and relax. Ages 2-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:30-10 a.m. Info, 878-6956.

FREE

Red Clover Story Time: Budding book lovers bury themselves in bibliophile and art activities. Best for ages 5-10. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

FRANKLIN

St. Albans Kids’ Craft Day: Students on a break from school drop in and check out art projects for all ages. St. Albans Free Library, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, 524-1507. FREE

LAMOILLE

Big & Messy — Art Space: Petite artists drop in and get creative with multiple materials in this child-led morning. River Arts, Morrisville, 10 a.m.-noon, suggested donation $5. Info, 888-1261.

Kids’ Night Out: While parents enjoy welldeserved time o , NVU varsity athletes lead activities, including swimming, rock climbing and team games. Kids should bring a swimsuit and gym clothes. Ages 5-14. SHAPE Facility, Johnson, 6-9 p.m., $10 per child. Info, 635-1452.

RUTLAND

Rutland Library Book Sale: Bibliophiles thumb through thousands of hardcovers, paperbacks, puzzles and more. Rutland Free Library, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Info, 773-1860.

Ongoing Exhibits

ECHO LEAHY CENTER FOR LAKE

CHAMPLAIN, BURLINGTON

Info, 864-1848

THOMAS EDISON’S SECRET LAB: Visitors investigate a virtual version of the greatest inventor of all time and explore interactive activities including a giant periodic table of elements, basic coding, and experiments with electricity, magnetism, optics, sound waves and air pressure. Regular museum admission, $11.50-14.50; free for children under 3.

Through January 5.

MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, NORWICH

Info, 649-2200

ELEMENTS OF GLASS: In partnership with Simon Pearce and their artisans, this exhibit interprets in glass the elements of water, fire and wood through drawings, videos and touchable samples which illuminate the process behind designing and creating glass pieces. Regular museum admission, $13-16; free for children under 2. Through March 2020.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

ORLEANS

Craftsbury Lego Club: Junior constructionists play with plastic cubes and chat companionably. Ages 4-12. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 3-4:30 p.m. Info, 586-9683.

WINDSOR

First Clay for Little Ones: Petite potters get creative with clay. Ages 2-5. ArtisTree/Purple Crayon, South Pomfret, 9-9:45 a.m., $7. Info, 457-3500.

2 Saturday

ADDISON

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: Locally produced crafts, cheeses, breads, veggies and more vie for spots in shoppers’ totes. Middlebury VFW, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

CALEDONIA

Caledonia Winter Farmers Market: Freshly baked goods, veggies, handmade crafts, meat and maple syrup figure prominently in displays of Vermont wares. St. Johnsbury Welcome Center, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

CHITTENDEN

Bilingual Spanish Story Time: Library patrons of all ages soak up stories in two languages.

Milton Public Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Bolton Community and Energy Fair: Families play, learn and celebrate with local businesses, including live performances, children’s activities, free workshops from E ciency Vermont about saving on home heating costs, a silent auction and capped with the annual harvest potluck from 5-7 p.m. Smilie Memorial School, Bolton, noon-4 p.m. Info, 434-3064. FREE Cochran’s Ski Sale: Skiers and riders shop for new-to-them gear. Consignment drop-o November 1, 6-8:30 pm. Camels Hump Middle School, Richmond, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Info, 434-2188.

Family Playshop: Families with small ones immerse in play-based learning designed to promote school readiness, with stories, songs and rotating activity centers. Ages 5 and under.

Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m., preregister. Info, 865-7216. FREE Kids Building Workshop: Handy helpers learn do-it-yourself skills and tool safety as they construct seasonal projects. Ages 5-12. Home Depot, Williston, 9 a.m.-noon, preregister at workshops.homedepot.com. Info, 872-0039.

FREE

Meet the Author: Kyle Lukoff: Little listeners soak up this new picture book — When Aidan Became a Brother — the story of a transgender child. Ages 7 and under. The Flying Pig Bookstore, Shelburne, 11 a.m. Info, 985-3999.

FREE Webby’s Art Studio: Inspired by the Museum’s temporary and permanent exhibitions, visitors of all ages and abilities create imaginative projects, varying from week to week. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., regular winter museum admission, $5-10; free for members and children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

SATURDAY 2, P. 36 »

Joyfrom the world

ethical globa l gifts

NOVEMBER CALENDAR

2 Saturday (cont.) Classes

Williston Craft Show: Over 100 artists and speciality vendors showcase their handmade holiday gifts, including toys, doll clothes, woodcrafts, jewelry, pottery, artwork and more. Williston Central School, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Info, 878-2762. FREE

Zumbini: Certified Zumbini teacher Christine gets little ones learning, bonding and having fun through music, dance and education. Ages 4 and under. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

LAMOILLE

Stowe Swap: Families stock up on gently used gear — skis, snowboards, boots, bindings, helmets, goggles, outerwear and more — for the slope season. Equipment for sale must be dropped off November 1, 1-6 p.m. Stowe Elementary School, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, 253-6138.

RUTLAND

Rutland Library Book Sale: See November 1, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Vermont Winter Farmers Market: More than 50 vendors peddle produce, fresh salad greens, apples and cider, artisan cheeses, homemade breads, and other local products. Vermont Farmers Food Center, Rutland, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info, 342-4727.

WASHINGTON

EarthWalk Fall Community Day: Games, crafts, outdoor baking, a potluck lunch, gratitude circle and more celebrate community and nature. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. EarthWalk Vermont, Plainfield, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, 454-8500. FREE

Mountainfilm on Tour: Telluride, Colorado’s Mountainfilm festival enchants the audience with their culturally rich, adventure-packed and inspiring documentaries. Ages 10 and up. Big Picture Theater, Waitsfield, 6-10 p.m., $12-20; $60 per family. Info, 496-3372.

WINDSOR

Family Clay: Children and their parents make memories firing and glazing special pieces.

ArtisTree/Purple Crayon, South Pomfret, 10 a.m.-noon, $20 per parent-child pair; $5 each additional child. Info, 457-3500.

3 Sunday

ADDISON

Family Play: Moms, dads and children have fun with free court time and use of equipment. Ages 18 and under with adult. Middlebury Indoor Tennis, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Info, 388-3733. FREE

CHITTENDEN

Art Play Day: Little ones and caregivers drop in and get messy with multiple materials to spark imaginations. Ages 18 months to 5 years with caregiver. Radiate Art Space, Richmond, 10-11:30 a.m., $5 per child; $8 max per family; $40 for a 10-visit punch card. Info, 324-9938.

Cochran’s Ski Sale: See November 2, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Essex Open Gym: Energy-filled kids flip, jump and tumble in a state-of-the-art facility. Ages 6 and under, 1 p.m.; ages 7-12, 2:30 p.m.; ages 13 and up, 4 p.m. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 1-5:30 p.m., $8-14 per child. Info, 655-3300.

Family Concert: Family-friendly musicians make a melodious afternoon for library listeners. Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Jericho, 2 p.m. Info, 899-4962. FREE

Family Gym: See November 1.

List your class or camp here for only $20 per month! Submit the listing by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to classes@kidsvt.com.

FRIDAY FAMILY CLAY OPTION 7: Spend a Friday night with your family at the BCA Clay Studio. A ticket provides a wheel demonstration at the beginning of class, wheel access (for ages 6+), hand building for any age, unlimited clay, and time to create. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may assist their child(ren) free of charge. Additional tickets are required for adults who’d like to join the fun and either hand build or use a wheel of their own. If you’d like your work to be fired and glazed by the studio, there is a $5 fee per piece. Finished pottery will be available for pickup three weeks after visit. Ticket purchases for this class are nonrefundable. Friday, November 1, 2019, 5-7 p.m. BCA Studios: 405 Pine Street, burlingtoncityarts.org. $10 per participant/$9 BCA members.

SUNDAY FAMILY PRINTMAKING: Spend a morning with teaching artist Kate McKernan in BCA’s print studio. Using our printing plates, inks and press, your family will create beautiful works of art. All supplies are provided, no experience needed. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may assist their child(ren) free of charge. Additional tickets are required for adults who’d like to make their own work. Ages 6 and older. Sunday, November 3, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon. BCA Studios: 405 Pine Street, burlingtoncityarts. org. $10 per participant/$9 BCA Members.

FRIDAY FAMILY CLAY OPTION 8: Spend a Friday night with your family at the BCA Clay Studio. A ticket provides a wheel demonstration at the beginning of class, wheel access (for ages 6+), hand building for any age, unlimited clay, and time to create. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may assist their child(ren) free of charge. Additional tickets are required for adults who’d like to join the fun and either hand build or use a wheel of their own. If you’d like your work to be fired and glazed by the studio, there is a $5 fee per piece. Finished pottery will be available for pickup three weeks after visit. Ticket purchases for this class are nonrefundable. Friday, November 8, 2019, 5-7 p.m. BCA Studios: 405 Pine Street. Burlingtoncityarts.org. $10 per participant/$9 BCA members.

SUNDAY FAMILY JEWELRY: Spend a morning with teaching artist Sarah Sprague in BCA’s jewelry studio. Using our studio equipment, fine metals and beads, your family will create beautiful and wearable works of art. All supplies are provided, no experience needed. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may assist their child(ren) free of charge. Additional tickets are required for adults who’d like to make their own work.

Ages 6 and older. Sunday, November 10, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon. BCA Studios: 405 Pine Street, burlingtoncityarts.org. $10 per participant/$9 BCA Members.

FRIDAY FAMILY CLAY OPTION 9: Spend a Friday night with your family at the BCA Clay Studio. A ticket provides a wheel demonstration at the beginning of class, wheel access (for ages 6+), hand building for any age, unlimited clay, and time to create. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may assist their child(ren) free of charge. Additional tickets are required for adults who’d like to join the fun and either hand build or use a wheel of their own. If you’d like your work to be fired and glazed by the studio, there is a $5 fee per piece. Finished pottery will be available for pickup three weeks after visit. Ticket purchases for this class are nonrefundable. Friday, November 15, 2019, 5-7 p.m. BCA Studios: 405 Pine Street, burlingtoncityarts.org.

SUNDAY FAMILY PAINT OPTION 2: Spend a morning with teaching artist Kate McKernan in BCA’s painting and drawing studio. Using our paints, brushes, easels and more, your family will create beautiful works of art. All supplies are provided, no experience needed. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may assist their child(ren) free of charge. Additional tickets are required for adults who’d like to join the fun and paint on their own. All ages welcome. Sunday, November 17, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon. BCA Studios: 405 Pine Street, burlingtoncityarts. org. $10 per participant/$9 BCA Members.

FRIDAY FAMILY CLAY OPTION 10: Spend a Friday night with your family at the BCA Clay Studio. A ticket provides a wheel demonstration at the beginning of class, wheel access (for ages 6+), hand building for any age, unlimited clay, and time to create. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may assist their child(ren) free of charge. Additional tickets are required for adults who’d like to join the fun and either hand build or use a wheel of their own. If you’d like your work to be fired and glazed by the studio, there is a $5 fee per piece. Finished pottery will be available for pickup three weeks after visit. Ticket purchases for this class are nonrefundable. Friday, November 22, 2019, 5-7 pm. BCA Studios: 405 Pine Street, burlingtoncityarts.org. $10 per participant/$9 BCA members.

SUNDAY FAMILY CARDMAKING: Join us in BCA’s print studio using our inks and tools to create handmade holiday cards. This is a great class to get in the holiday mood while making functional crafts and making art as a family. All supplies are provided, no experience needed. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may assist their child(ren) free of charge. Additional tickets are required for adults who’d like to make their own work. Ages 6 and older. Sunday, December 8, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon. BCA Studios: 405 Pine Street, burlingtoncityarts.org. $10 per participant/$9 BCA Members.

VT BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU ACADEMY: The future of our nation lies in the courage, confidence and determination of its people. Our Kids BJJ Program promotes self-esteem, selfconfidence, character development and a physical outlet with discipline, cooperation with other children, respect for peers and adults, perseverance and a healthy lifestyle. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will help your kids to learn realistic bullyproofing and self-defense skills that they can use for the rest of their lives!

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu builds endurance, patience and self-respect. Give your kids the ability to get stronger, gain confidence and build resilience! Our sole purpose is to help empower people by giving them practices they can carry with them throughout life. Remember you are raising children, not flowers. First class is free! Please stop by our school at 55 Leroy Rd., Williston; call 598-2839; visit vermontbjj.com or email julio@bjjusa.com to register your son or daughter!

Rice Memorial High School Open House: Prospective families join current parents, student ambassadors, teachers and coaches to learn more about this private high school. Ages 10-17. Rice Memorial High School, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m., RSVP by November 1 encouraged. Info, 862-6521. FREE

LAMOILLE

Stowe Open Gym For Tots: Little ones run, throw, catch, crawl and dribble the morning away. Ages 5 and under; adult caregiver required. Stowe Elementary School, 10-11 a.m., $2 per drop-in participant. Info, 253-6138.

4 Monday

CHITTENDEN

Colchester Preschool Music: Bitty ones dance and sing to a brisk beat. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11:30 a.m. Info, 264-5660.

Crafts for Kids: Clever kiddos get creative with artsy projects. Ages 5-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Info, 264-5660. FREE

Dia de los Muertos with Tina Logan: The community celebrates this holiday by fashioning tissue flowers and themed decorations while relishing treats and cocoa. Grades K and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4:45 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

One-on-One Tutoring: Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences students coach elementary-age kids in reading, math and science. Grades 1-6. Some assistance available for other grades in certain subjects with inquiry. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-6 p.m., preregister. Info, 264-5660. FREE

Read with Pugsley: Petite ones practice literacy skills with the library’s pooch. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4:15 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Teen Space: Adolescents enjoy games, music, snacks and a different activity each week. Ages 12-17. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Williston Preschool Music: Lively tunes with local musicians strike the right note among the wee crowd. Ages 5 and under with a caregiver. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m., limited to one session per week per family. Info, 878-4918.

FRANKLIN

Messy Mondays: Kids dig deep into imaginative projects. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m. Info, 868-3970. FREE

RUTLAND

Babies & Toddlers Rock: Mini-musicians ages 2 and under sing songs and engage in early literacy activities. Rutland Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Info, 773-1860. FREE

WINDSOR

Young At Art: Little ones in play clothes drop in and ignite their imagination through dance, paint and more. ArtisTree/Purple Crayon, South Pomfret, 10-11 a.m., $5. Info, 457-3500.

5 Tuesday CHITTENDEN

Dorothy’s List Book Club: Middle readers make merry conversation around Sweep: the Story of a Girl and Her Monster by Jonathan Auxier. Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4 p.m. Info, 264-5660. FREE

Make a Board Game: In celebration of International Games Week, imaginative kids create a pastime of their own. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 4, 3-5 p.m.

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: Book bu s bring a selection from home or borrow from the library to amuse an attentive canine. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m., preregister. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Spanish Musical Kids: Niños celebrate Spanish through Latin American songs and games. Ages 1-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:45 a.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE

Tinker Tuesdays: Kids investigate what makes technology tick by taking apart objects and designing new inventions. Use the library’s materials or bring in computers, keyboards or other old electronics. Winooski Memorial Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Info, 655-6424. FREE

Williston Lego Club: Amateur architects snap together buildings of their own design. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2-3 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE

FRANKLIN

Adoption Support Group: Families facing adoption issues and challenges join forces in a respectful setting. All welcome. Franklin County Seniors Center, St. Albans, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Info, 524-1700. FREE

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Fairfield Lego Club: Kids tackle a building challenge. Grades 2-6. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 3:15-4:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 827-3945. FREE

Tunes on Tuesdays: Youngsters make merry with movement and tunes. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m. Info, 868-3970. FREE

LAMOILLE

Free Family Art Workshops: Youngsters drop in for all or part of the morning and make masterpieces with many materials, presented by Grass Roots Art & Community E ort (GRACE). Co ee, drinks and snacks provided. Caregiver required. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 10 a.m.noon. Info, 472-6857. FREE

Seasonal Events

CAPITAL CITY THANKSGIVING FARMERS

MARKET: More than 50 farmers, food producers and craftspeople offer root veggies, savory baked goods, maple syrup and much more at this off-season celebration of locavorism. Montpelier High School, SATURDAY, NOV. 16, 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Info, 793-8347.

‘HOLIDAY PUNCH!’: Modern Times Theater’s old-fashioned puppet show gets the audience cracking up as Mr. Punch searches for a holiday turkey with the added merriment of original live music. The Grange Theatre, South Pomfret, SATURDAY, NOV. 23, 11 A.M. $8; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

WESTFORD TURKEY TROT: Families seeking fresh air choose from a 10K run or 3K walk/run on rural roads, with medals for age-group winners and treats and chili for sale. A Tot Trot is geared toward the littlest athletes. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m.; race begins at 10 a.m. Westford School, SATURDAY, NOV. 23, $12 for preregistration; $15 on race day; free for Tot Trot; proceeds benefit benefit The Westford Committee for Children and Families. Info, 777-2667.

MIDDLEBURY TURKEY TROT & GOBBLE

WOBBLE 5K AND 10K: Runners work up an appetite along a flat and scenic course. Check-in opens at 10 a.m. at the municipal gym. Middlebury Recreation Center, SUNDAY, NOV. 24, NOON, $35-40; a portion of proceeds benefit the Addison County Food Shelf; bring nonperishable items for the Food Shelf. Info, 388-8100, ext. 216.

NATIVE AMERICAN THANKSGIVINGS: Author and master storyteller Michael Caduto dramatizes Native tales about the true meaning of thanksgiving in indigenous cultures, and asks the audience to join in with songs, chants, native instruments and dance. Milton Public Library, MONDAY, NOV. 25, 10-11:30 A.M., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

TURKEY SKATE: Kids of all ages whet their appetite by whizzing and whirling on ice. Stowe Arena, THURSDAY, NOV. 28, 10 A.M.-NOON, $3-5; $5 skate rental. Info, 253-3054.

TURKEY TROT: A quarter-mile kids’ race starts the fun at 9:45 a.m., just before the 5K jaunt. Registration opens at 9 a.m. UVM Gutterson Field House, Burlington, THURSDAY, NOV. 28 suggested donation $5; $10 per family; or a nonperishable food donation; proceeds benefit the Chittenden Food Shelf. Info, 656-0851.

ZACK’S PLACE TURKEY TROT: This scenic 5K walk/run raises funds for a free enrichment center serving community members with special needs. Live music, hot chocolate and coffee add to the holiday festivities. Registration open 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27, or 8-9:30 a.m. day of race. Woodstock Elementary School, THURSDAY, NOV. 28, 10 A.M. $30-35. Info, 457-5868.

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND: This working farm showcases Turkey Day traditions from 1890, including holiday food activities and wagon rides towed by a team of draft horses. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, NOV. 29-DEC. 1, 10 A.M.-4 P.M. regular museum admission, $4-16; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

6 Wednesday

CALEDONIA

Hardwick Chess Club: Strategy lovers join local game enthusiast Paul Fixx to sharpen their skills. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 2:45-5 p.m. Info, 472-5948. FREE

Zine-Making Series: Hosted by writer Lassiter Williams, teens take part in four workshops devoted to publishing their own words. Ages 13-18. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 3:30 p.m. Info, 745-1391. FREE

CHITTENDEN

Kids’ Chess Club: Strategy lovers of all abilities face off against opponents. Ages 6 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 4, 5-8 p.m. Read to a Dog: Little library patrons delight in books and a furry friend. Arrive early to secure a spot. South Burlington Public Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Info, 846-4140. FREE

New Parents

EVOLUTION POSTNATAL YOGA BURLINGTON: New mamas tote their pre-crawling kids to an all-levels flowing yoga class focused on bringing the body back to strength and alignment in a relaxed and nurturing environment. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, SUNDAYS, NOON, TUESDAYS, 10 A.M., THURSDAYS, 10:45 A.M. AND FRIDAYS, NOON-1 P.M., $17; $120-140 for a 10-class pass. Info, 899-0339.

EVOLUTION PRENATAL YOGA BURLINGTON: Mothers-to-be build strength, stamina and a stronger connection to their baby. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, SUNDAYS, 10:15-11:30 A.M., MONDAYS, 5:45 P.M., TUESDAYS, 4:15 P.M., WEDNESDAYS, 5:45 P.M., THURSDAYS, 12:30 P.M., FRIDAYS, 8:15 A.M. AND SATURDAYS, 11:30 A.M., $17 per class; $120-140 for 10-class pass. Info, 899-0339.

EVOLUTION POSTNATAL YOGA ESSEX: New mamas tote their pre-crawling kids to an alllevels flowing yoga class focused on bringing the body back to strength and alignment in a relaxed and nurturing environment.

Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga, Essex Junction, MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS, 10:45 A.M. AND SATURDAYS, 9:45 A.M., $17; $120-140 for a 10-class pass; childcare for ages 6 months-6 years available. Info, 899-0339.

EVOLUTION PRENATAL YOGA ESSEX: Mothersto-be build strength, stamina and a stronger connection to their baby. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga, Essex Junction, TUESDAYS, 6 P.M., WEDNESDAYS, 12:15 P.M. AND SATURDAYS, 8:15 A.M., $17 per class; $120-140 for 10-class pass. Info, 899-0339.

BOSOM BUDDIES: New and expectant mothers, babies and supportive grandmas rally in a relaxed evening, when peers and professionals answer mothering and breastfeeding questions. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin, FIRST MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 5:30-7 P.M. Info, 371-4415. FREE

BOSOM BUDDIES TOO: Nursing mamas of toddlers and mobile wee ones socialize and swap supportive stories and advice with peers and professionals. Babies welcome. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin, FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 5:30-7 P.M. Info, 371-4415. FREE

MOM AND BABY YOGA: Brand-new mamas and their littles relax, stretch and bond. Followed by a free mothers’ gathering at 11:30 a.m. Embodied, Montpelier, TUESDAYS, 10:30-11:30 A.M. $11. Info, 223-5302.

PRENATAL YOGA: Moms-to-be stretch and bend. Embodied, Montpelier, TUESDAYS, 6-7:15 P.M. $16 per drop-in class. Info, 778 -0300.

BURLINGTON EARLY MONTHS INFANT MASSAGE: This mother-infant group includes baby massage and postpartum new mama support. Janet S. Munt Family Room, Burlington, WEDNESDAYS, 11 A.M.-NOON. Info, 862-2121. FREE

MIDDLEBURY LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING AND PLAYGROUP: Families with infants and toddlers socialize and swap nursing stories. Junebug Mother and Child, Middlebury, FIRST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10 A.M. Info, 388-1055. FREE

ESSEX LA LECHE LEAGUE: Moms bring their bitty ones to a discussion of parenting and breastfeeding. Siblings welcome. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, FIRST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 6:30-8 P.M. Info, 899-5490. FREE

HYDE PARK BABY CHAT: Parents with babies mingle, learn more about developmental needs and expectations, and have the opportunity to ask questions of a maternal health specialist. Lanpher Memorial Library, Hyde Park, FIRST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10-11:30 A.M. Info, 888-5229.

MAMA’S CIRCLE BARRE: This supportive gathering brings moms of new babies and toddlers together to foster friendship through unique-but-shared experiences. Imagine Yoga, Barre, SECOND FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9:30-11:30 A.M. Info, 595-7953. FREE

MORRISVILLE BABY CHAT: Parents with babies socialize, learn more about developmental needs and expectations, and have the opportunity to ask questions of a maternal health specialist. Lamoille Family Center, Morrisville, SECOND SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10-11:30 A.M. Info, 888-5229.

BURLINGTON LA LECHE LEAGUE: New moms bring their babies and questions to a breastfeeding support group. Older children welcome. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, SECOND TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10:15 A.M. Info, 985-8228. FREE

LA LECHE LEAGUE OF THE NORTHEAST KINGDOM: Expectant, novice and experienced moms join nursing experts for advice and support. Enter through the children’s section of the library.

Siblings welcome. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, SECOND TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10:30 A.M. Info, 720-272-8841. FREE

Tiny Humans, Big Emotions: Dad Guild Workshop: Sponsored by Building Bright Futures, Alyssa Campbell from Seed and Sew facilitates a workshop for local dads around the topic of raising emotionally intelligent children. Bring a potluck dish to share, if possible; enter through the main entrance of building C. Edmunds Middle School, Burlington, 6:30-8:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 318-4231. FREE

Wonder Wednesdays: Eager kids experiment, collaborate and explore their curiosity through specific projects. Best for ages 6 and up. Call or check online for details. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Yoga for Kids: Young yogis stretch to the sky with professional instructor Melissa from Evolution Yoga. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:45 a.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE

FRANKLIN

Art with Mr. Raymond: Led by a local art teacher, this 5-week course gets kids creative in a variety of mediums. Grades K-2. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 3:15-4:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 827-3945. FREE

LAMOILLE

Varnum Lego Club: Eager youngsters immerse in themed and free builds. All ages. Varnum Memorial Library, Jeffersonville, 3:30-5 p.m. Info, 644-2117. FREE

NURSING BEYOND A YEAR: In a supportive setting, mothers discuss the joys and challenges of breastfeeding children approaching one year old and beyond. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, THIRD FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9:30-11:30 A.M. Info, 595-7953. FREE

BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ: Mamas nurse their babies, chat and ask for answers from a certified lactation consultant. Pregnant women, supportive dads and older siblings welcome. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, THIRD TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 11 A.M.-1 P.M. Info, 236-4136. FREE

BREASTFEEDING FAMILIES GROUP: Nursing moms (and supportive dads, too!) gather for snacks and advice. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, THIRD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 11 A.M.-1 P.M. Info, 888-5229. FREE

LA LECHE LEAGUE OF CENTRAL VERMONT: Breastfeeding mamas swap stories and support each other, with a professional available for consultation. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, THIRD THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9:30-11:30 A.M. Info, 595-7953. FREE BABYWEARERS OF CENTRAL VERMONT: Brand-new mamas and papas check out infant carriers, get advice and spend some socializing time with other new parents. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, FOURTH MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 5:45-7:15 P.M. Info, 595-7953. FREE

HOW TO BREASTFEED PRENATAL CLASS: Expectant mamas and their partners learn the basics of breastfeeding, how to get off to the best start with their baby and where to find assistance when needed. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin, FOURTH TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 4:30-6 P.M., preregister. Info, 371-4415. FREE

JOHNSON BABY CHAT: Parents with babies mingle, learn more about developmental needs and expectations, and have the opportunity to ask questions of a maternal health specialist. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, FOURTH TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10-11:30 A.M. Info, 888-5229. FREE

MOMMY GROUP: Breastfeeding peer counselor Angela Scavo hosts mamas and answers questions in a relaxed setting. Junebug Mother and Child, Middlebury, FOURTH WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9:30-10:30 A.M. Info, 349-9084. FREE

WASHINGTON

Air Pollution: How to ‘Go Green’: Youngsters ages 6-11 explore the science of clean air. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m., preregister. Info, 244-7036. FREE

Walk-Through Wednesday at Orchard Valley: Parents interested in an alternative grade-school eduction for their children tour classrooms and ask questions. For adults. Orchard Valley Waldorf School, East Montpelier, 8:30-9:30 a.m., preregister. Info, 456-7400. FREE

7 Thursday

CALEDONIA

Free Family Art Workshops: Youngsters drop in for all or part of the morning and make masterpieces with many materials. Coffee, drinks and snacks provided. Caregiver required. Old Firehouse at GRACE, Hardwick, 10 a.m.-noon. Info, 472-6857. FREE

Knitting for Kids: Junior crafters learn simple skills with Hazen Union High School student Audrey Grant. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 3-4 p.m., RSVP if yarn and needles needed. Info, 472-5948. FREE

CHITTENDEN

Bilingual Spanish Story Time: See November 2, 6:30-7:15 p.m.

Burlington Babytime: Infants through slow walkers have a ball with books, rhymes, songs and socializing. Ages 18 months and under. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE

Colchester Lego Club: Mini-makers participate in surprise challenges with interlocking toys. Ages 6-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4 p.m. Info, 264-5660. FREE

Essex Lego Club: Small builders have a blast with plastic blocks. Grades K-5. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Info, 879-0313. FREE

Preschool Yoga: Children’s yoga teacher Melissa Nutting charms wee ones and caregivers with a half-hour of singing, relaxing, reading and stretching. Ages 3-6. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11:30 a.m.-noon. Info, 264-5660. FREE

Red Clover Book Discussion: Little ones listen to Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love, followed by chatting and crafting. Grades 1-4. Milton Public Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Ukulele Joe: Musical ones join Joe to sing and play. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:45 a.m. Info, 865-7216. FREE Williston Preschool Music: See November 4, 10:30 a.m.

FRANKLIN

Franklin Lego Thursdays: Kiddie constructionists combine their imagination with the library’s supplies. Haston Library, Franklin, 2-5 p.m. Info, 285-6505.

LAMOILLE

Pre-K Art Play: Toddlers drop in and create personal projects with diverse art supplies. Ages 1-4; caregiver required. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 10-11 a.m., $5. Info, 253-8358.

WASHINGTON

MOPS/MomsNext: Mothers of preschoolers and school-age children mingle with other mamas for themed discussions. Childcare and children’s crafts provided, sponsored by the Waterbury Mission Church. Thatcher Brook Primary School, Waterbury, 6:45-8:15 p.m. Info, 272-5262. FREE

8 Friday

CHITTENDEN

Dungeons & Dragons: Players embark on invented adventures, equipped with their problem-solving skills. Game starts at 6:30 p.m.; come early for assistance with character design. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Family Gym: See November 1.

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See November 1.

Music with Raph: Melody lovers of all ages play and sing. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:30-10:15 a.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Teen Advisory Board: Teens take time together to plan upcoming projects. Grades 9 and up.

Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

The Schoolhouse Huge Tag Sale: Gently used clothing, toys and sporting goods exchange hands at this giant sale. Donations accepted Thursday, November 7, and until noon on Friday, November 8. The Schoolhouse, South Burlington, 3-5:30 p.m. Info, 658-4164.

FRIDAY 8, P. 40 »

Science & Nature

HORSE-DRAWN WAGON RIDES: Giddy-up!

Families have open-air fun sailing over farm fields. Shelburne Farms, SATURDAY, NOV. 2, 2:45, 3:30, 4:15 & 5 P.M., $7-10; preregister for a specific time. Info, 985-8686.

STORIES FROM SPACE: Science educator Mike Ressler zooms small ones through the solar system with stories and a spacebased craft. Ages 2-5. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, SUNDAYS, 10-11 A.M., regular museum admission, $8-12; free for children under age 5. Info, 748-2372.

BOOKS & BEYOND: SCIENCE FOR PRESCHOOLERS: Children’s literature and hands-on activities combine for fun science learning and exploration. Ages 3-5 with a parent or caregiver. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, FIRST MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10:30-11:15 & 11:30 A.M.-12:15 P.M., regular museum admission, $13-16; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

STEM FESTIVAL: This Science, Technology, Engineering and Math extravaganza engages youngsters with a 12-foot tall wind wall, coding robots, giant blue building blocks, a giant Lego race track and more. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, SATURDAY, NOV. 9, 10 A.M.-5 P.M. AND SUNDAY, NOV. 10, 10 A.M.-5 P.M., regular museum admission, $11.50-14.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

TAKE APART DAY: Curious kiddos explore the “guts” of everyday items, from toasters to toys. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, SATURDAY, NOV. 9, NOON-3 P.M., regular museum admission, $13-16; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

MONTSHIRE MAKERS: Middle school inventors use their imagination and the museum’s materials to create cool projects, with different monthly themes.

Grades 6-8. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, FRIDAY, NOV. 15, 6-7:30 P.M., $8-15; preregistration encouraged. Info, 649-2200.

HAWKS, OWLS & FALCONS: Avian aficionados drop in and meet live raptors. Shelburne Farms, SATURDAY, NOV. 16, 10 A.M.-1 P.M. $5-6; preregistration encouraged. Info, 985-8686.

BIRD-MONITORING WALK: Eagle-eyed participants bring binoculars to search the museum’s property for fluttering feathers. Best for adults and older children. Bring binoculars. Ages 10 and up. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, LAST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8-9 A.M., preregister. Info, 434-2167. FREE

SLED DOGS LIVE AT ECHO: The October Siberians Sled Dogs greet admiring fans up close. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, SATURDAY, NOV. 30, 11 A.M.-2 P.M., regular museum admission, $11.50-14.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

SCIENCE & STORIES: Preschoolers rally ’round for nature-inspired tales and activities. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6, 11-11:30 A.M. AND WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20, 11-11:30 A.M., regular museum admission, $11.50-14.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

questions.

Photo: Montgomery Sheridan

NOVEMBER CALENDAR

8 Friday (cont.)

LAMOILLE

Morrisville Music and Movement: Little ones drop in, sing and swing to favorites and classics, play instruments and learn basic rhythm and vocal dynamics. For infants through preschoolers. River Arts, Morrisville, 11 a.m.-noon, suggested donation $5. Info, 888-1261.

ORLEANS

Craftsbury Lego Club: See November 1.

WINDSOR

First Clay for Little Ones: See November 1.

9 Saturday

ADDISON

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

CHITTENDEN

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: Local farmers, artisans and producers offer fresh and prepared foods, crafts and more in a bustling indoor marketplace made merry with live music. UVM Davis Student Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info, 656-4636.

Milton Pre-Christmas Craft Show: 70 local crafters, a kids’ space, raffle and refreshments make for a merry time. Milton High School, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., bring a nonperishable item for the Milton Food Shelf. Info, 893-3230. FREE

Read to Cleo the Therapy Dog: Canine and reading enthusiasts visit with a personable pooch. All ages. Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

The Schoolhouse Huge Tag Sale: See November 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Vermont Steampunk Expo: A unique form of science fiction set in the Victorian era with steam-powered machines and 19th-centuryinspired clothing enchants visitors with special guests and panelists, artisans, crafters and performers from Vermont and New England. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., $5-15; free for children under age 6 with purchase of adult ticket. Info, 778-9178. Webby’s Art Studio: See November 2.

LAMOILLE

Raptors Encounter: Young naturalists share an up close encounter with live birds from the Vermont Institute of Natural Science and examine predator-prey relationships and the interdependence of the systems which support life. Varnum Memorial Library, Jeffersonville, 11 a.m.-noon. Info, 644-2117. FREE

RUTLAND

Vermont Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

WASHINGTON

Kids Trade & Play: Families exchange clean and gently used clothing and toys, sizes newborn to 12. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 9:30-11:30 a.m., $3 per family. Info, 831-337-8632.

River of Light Lantern-Making Workshop: Families craft magical willow-and-tissuepaper lights in preparation for Waterbury’s December 7 River of Light Community Lantern Procession. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult. MakerSphere Ceramic and Handcrafting Satellite Space, Waterbury Center, 1-3 p.m., donations welcome; preregister. FREE

Live Performances

DISNEY’S ‘WINNIE THE POOH’: Very Merry Theatre performers in grades 1-6 enchant the audience with the musical tale of Pooh Bear, Piglet and friends. O.N.E. Community Center, Burlington, FRIDAY, NOV. 1, 5 P.M. AND SATURDAY, NOV. 2, 6:30 P.M. Info, 355-1461. FREE

MISTER CHRIS AND FRIENDS: The star of Vermont PBS’s preschool show gets the kiddie crowd clapping and cheering. Doors open at 11 a.m. Higher Ground, South Burlington, SATURDAY, NOV. 2, NOON, $12-15. Info, 652-0777.

RED KITE GREEN MOUNTAIN: This interactive theatrical experience with live music and sensory moments — created specifically for young people on the autism spectrum — takes the audience on an imaginative journey exploring Vermont’s seasons and wildlife with playful activities. Chase Dance Studio, Burlington, SUNDAY, NOV. 3, 11 A.M. & 2 P.M. AND MONDAY, NOV. 4, 9:30, 11 A.M. & 12:30 P.M, $8.50-15. Info, 863-5966.

‘THE ADDAMS FAMILY’: The Lyric Theatre Company mesmerizes the audience with a creepy and kooky musical and dance rendition of this television show classic.

Ages 8 and up. The Sunday matinee is audio-described for patrons who are blind or visually impaired. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, THURSDAY, NOV. 7, 7:30 P.M., FRIDAY, NOV. 8, 7:30 P.M., SATURDAY, NOV. 9, 1 & 7:30 P.M. AND SUNDAY, NOV. 10, 1 P.M., $24-42. Info, 863-5966.

HONK! JR.: Middlebury Community Players performs this Hans Christian Andersen story of Ugly, the duckling who looks different from his darling brothers and sisters but discovers he has his own place. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, THURSDAY, NOV. 7, 7 P.M., FRIDAY, NOV. 8, 7 P.M., SATURDAY, NOV. 9, 2 P.M. AND SUNDAY, NOV. 10, 2 P.M., $8. Info, 382-9222.

KIDS VT SPECTACULAR SPECTACULAR

AUDITIONS: Creative kiddos try out for a spot in the December 7th Spectacular Spectacular youth talent show. Ages 5-13. Preregister on the website to receive a time slot. Higher Ground, South Burlington, SATURDAY, NOV. 9. Info, 985-5482. FREE

THE CASHORE MARIONETTES: Puppeteer Joseph Cashore amazes the audience with a series of scenes taken from everyday life and set to music by Beethoven, Vivaldi, Strauss and Copland. Ages 5 and up. Highland Center for the Arts, Greensboro, THURSDAY, NOV. 14, 11 A.M.-NOON, $10-25. Info, 533-2000.

THE CASHORE MARIONETTES: Puppeteer Joseph Cashore amazes the audience with a series of scenes taken from everyday life and set to music by Beethoven, Vivaldi, Strauss and Copland. FlynnSpace, Burlington, SATURDAY, NOV. 16, 2 & 8 P.M., $21-25. Info, 863-5966.

Waitsfield Ski and Skate Sale: Families gear up for winter sports. Consignment preregistration weekdays, beginning Monday, November 4, 7:45 a.m.-3 p.m.; consignment drop-o Friday, November 8, 4-7 p.m. Waitsfield Elementary School, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., proceeds benefit the Waitsfield Elementary School PTA. Info, 595-2200.

WINDSOR

Norwich Winter Farmers Market: Local growers present produce, meats and maple syrup, complementing baked goods and crafts from area artists. Tracy Hall, Norwich, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Info, 384-7447.

Sing, Say, Dance and Play: Families check out this free intro to a class based on the Or Schulwerk approach, which combines music, movement, drama and speech into lessons similar to a child’s world of play. Ages 3-8. ArtisTree/Purple Crayon, South Pomfret, 10-10:45 a.m. Info, 457-3500. FREE

NEW YORK

Living History Event: Continue in the Service…and Save their Country: In a salute to all American veterans, visitors discover the hardships and sacrifices of Revolutionary War soldiers, through programs, historic trades and weapons demonstrations, and other activities. Fort Ticonderoga, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., regular museum admission, $12-24; free for children under age 4. Info, 518-585-2821.

10 Sunday

ADDISON

Family Play: See November 3.

THE MUSIC OF THE BEATLES FOR KIDS:

The Rock and Roll Playhouse — a family concert series — gets kids moving and grooving to tunes from the classic rock canon. Doors open at 11 a.m. Higher Ground, South Burlington, SATURDAY, NOV. 16, NOON, $15; free for children ages 1 and under. Info, 652-0777.

RED KITE GREEN MOUNTAIN LOBBY

PERFORMANCE: This Free Family Saturday gets kids engaged with live music and sensory moments — created specifically for young people on the autism spectrum — and takes families on an imaginative journey exploring Vermont’s seasons and wildlife with playful activities. Flynn Center Lobby, Burlington, SATURDAY, NOV. 16, 10 A.M., free admission, but preregistration suggested. Info, 863-5966.

RUBBERBAND DANCE: Internationally acclaimed choreographer Victor Quijada and his company combine the energy of hip-hop, the refinement of classical ballet and contemporary dance to mesmerize the audience. Dibden Center for the Arts, Johnson State College, SATURDAY, NOV. 16, 7 P.M., $25-45. Info, 888-757-5559.

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED

REINDEER: THE MUSICAL: Families soak up a musical rendition of the beloved stop-motion animated 1964 television classic, featuring flying creatures and a 12-foot-tall Abominable Snow Monster, as the world’s most famous reindeer and his friends help Santa save Christmas. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, THURSDAY, NOV. 21, 7 P.M., $34.75-76.75. Info, 863-5966.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

CHITTENDEN

Essex Open Gym: See November 3.

Family Gym: See November 1.

WASHINGTON

Dance, Sing and Jump Around: Families delight in a lively afternoon of dances and singing games with instruction and live traditional music. Ages 3-8 with caregivers. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m., suggested donation $5 per adult; free for children; no one turned away. Info, 223-1509.

River of Light Lantern-Making Workshop: See November 9, MakerSphere Creative Studios, Waterbury, 10 a.m.-noon. FREE

Waitsfield Ski and Skate Sale: See November 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

11 Monday

Veterans Day

CHITTENDEN

Cross Connections: Mothers of little ones preschool age and younger socialize over breakfast and hear ideas about motherhood. Childcare provided. Christ Memorial Church, Williston, 9:30-11:30 a.m., $5; free for first-time visitors. Info, 878-7107.

Teen Space: See November 4.

‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, THE BROADWAY MUSICAL’: Teen thespians astound the audience with the timeless tale of an enchantress who transforms a vain prince into a terrible beast, and a young girl trapped in his castle. South Burlington High School, FRIDAY, NOV. 22, 7-9 P.M. AND SATURDAY, NOV. 23, 7-9 P.M., $6-12. Info, 652-7000.

MARIO THE MAKER MAGICIAN: This New York-based inventor integrates DIY electronics and robotics into his interactive and slapstick performance. Ages 2 and up. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, SATURDAY, NOV. 30, 1 & 4 P.M. $11-22. Info, 382-9222.

‘THE NUTCRACKER’: Professionals from the Albany Berkshire Ballet and local dance students visit the Land of Sweets and conquer the Mouse King in their 45th anniversary tour of this beloved holiday classic. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, SATURDAY, NOV. 30, 3 & 7 P.M., $19-43.50. Info, 863-5966.

Kids VT Spectacular Spectacular auditions

NOVEMBER CALENDAR

It takes a village to raise a child.

CHITTENDEN

11 Monday (cont.)

FRANKLIN

Messy Mondays: See November 4.

RUTLAND

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See November 4.

12 Tuesday

CHITTENDEN

Bilingual Spanish Story Time: See November 2.

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 4, 3-5 p.m.

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See November 5.

Spanish Musical Kids: See November 5.

Strategy Board Games: Game lovers partake in complicated tabletop pastimes. Ages 13 and up. Milton Public Library, 5-7:45 p.m. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Tinker Tuesdays: See November 5.

Tuesday Movie: Viewers relax with a familyfriendly flick. Popcorn and drinks provided. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2:45-4:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Williston Movie: Youngsters soak up a familyfriendly flick while snacking on popcorn. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE

FRANKLIN

Tunes on Tuesdays: See November 5.

LAMOILLE

Free Family Art Workshops: Youngsters drop in for all or part of the morning and make masterpieces with many materials, presented by Grass Roots Art & Community Effort (GRACE). Coffee, drinks and snacks provided. Caregiver required. River Arts, Morrisville, 10 a.m.-noon. Info, 472-6857. FREE

WASHINGTON

Watercolor Resist Art: Petite painters pursue projects. Ages 6-11. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m., preregister. Info, 244-7036. FREE

13 Wednesday

CALEDONIA

Zine-Making Series: See November 6.

CHITTENDEN

Kids’ Chess Club: See November 6. One-on-One Tutoring: See November 4, 5-8 p.m.

Wonder Wednesdays: See November 6.

Yoga for Kids: See November 6.

Young Writers & Storytellers: Small ones spin their own yarns. Ages 5-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-5 p.m. Info, 264-5660. FREE

FRANKLIN

Art with Mr. Raymond: See November 6.

WASHINGTON

Make Milk Plastic: Afterschool students dig into a science project. Ages 6-11. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m., preregister. Info, 244-7036. FREE

14 Thursday

CALEDONIA

Knitting for Kids: See November 7.

Colchester Lego Club: See November 7.

Essex Lego Club: See November 7.

PJ Storytime: Little ones snuggle up in their sleepy clothes for bedtime yarns. Ages 2-7. Milton Public Library, 6:30-7:15 p.m. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Preschool Yoga: See November 7.

Ukulele Joe: See November 7.

UnSchool at Audubon: Home-based learners use the outdoor classroom to explore a variety of seasonal topics, from forest flora to wilderness skills. Ages 6-12. Parent attendance optional. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., $25-30; preregister. Info, 434-3068. Williston Preschool Music: See November 4, 10:30 a.m.

FRANKLIN

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See November 7.

Teen Craft Night: Canvas Painting: Adolescents use YouTube and Pinterest to make a masterpiece while delighting in cookies and cocoa. Ages 12-18. St. Albans Free Library, 6 p.m., preregister. Info, 524-1507. FREE

15 Friday

CHITTENDEN

Family Gym: See November 1.

Family Movie: Viewers enjoy a family-friendly flick while feasting on free popcorn. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:15 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See November 1.

Play Time for Little Ones: Little ones build with blocks and make community connections. Ages 5 and under. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

REI Grand Opening Celebration: The outdooradventurer co-op throws a party to celebrate its grand opening in Williston. See rei.com for specifics. REI Williston Store, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., some activities require preregistration. Info, 800-426-4840. FREE

LAMOILLE

Big & Messy — Art Space: See November 1. ORLEANS

Craftsbury Lego Club: See November 1. WINDSOR

First Clay for Little Ones: See November 1.

16 Saturday

ADDISON

‘Frozen’ Sing Along: This famous Disney animated film makes the audience melodious. Doors open at 9 a.m.; movie begins at 10 a.m. Marquis Theater, Middlebury, 9 a.m.-noon, bring a nonperishable donation for the food shelf; pancake breakfast for purchase in the Cafe benefits the Middlebury Cub Scouts. Info, 388-4841. FREE

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

CALEDONIA

Caledonia Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

Walden Holiday Community Craft Fair: Seasonal shoppers peruse handcrafted gifts — from salsa to woodworking — and check out a silent auction and purchase lunch fare. Walden School, West Danville, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, 533-2213. FREE

CHITTENDEN

American Girl Tea Party: Young ladies in fancy dress enjoy an afternoon of crafts, games and refreshments, with or without dolls. Ages 8-12 with adult caregiver. Milton Public Library, 1-3 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Art Lab: Inventive kiddos explore multiple materials. Recommended for ages 6 and under, but all are welcome. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-11 a.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Burlington Winter Farmers Market: See November 9.

Dad Guild: This group gets fathers of young children reading together, having fun with creative play and forming new friendships. All are welcome. Ages 5 and under. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 4-5:30 p.m. Info, 865-7216.

FREE

Family Playshop: See November 2.

Hinesburg Saturday Storytime: Small ones and caregivers start the weekend o with stories, songs and games, followed by free play and snacks. Ages 5 and under. CarpenterCarse Library, Hinesburg, 10-10:30 a.m. Info, 482-2878. FREE

REI Grand Opening Celebration: See November 15.

Webby’s Art Studio: See November 2.

FRANKLIN

Kids’ Movie Matinee: Youngsters relax with a family-friendly flick. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Info, 524-1507. FREE

RUTLAND

Vermont Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

WASHINGTON

Berlin Fall Scholastic Chess Tournament: Checkmate! Players of all abilities sit down for a strategy game, focusing on fun and sportsmanship. Registration opens at 9 a.m. Ages 5-18. Berlin Elementary School, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $8-10 per player; $15-18 per family; preregister; free to spectate; food available for purchase. Info, 223-1948.

Winter Clothing Drive: Community members exchange good-quality clothing at no cost.

Donations accepted the previous week at the Jaquith Library. Old Schoolhouse Common, Marshfield, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Info, 426-3581. FREE

17 Sunday

ADDISON

Family Play: See November 3.

CHITTENDEN

Art Play Day: See November 3.

Essex Open Gym: See November 3.

Family Gym: See November 1.

REI Grand Opening Celebration: See November 15.

18 Monday

CHITTENDEN

Colchester Preschool Music: See November 4.

Crafts for Kids: See November 4.

Food for Thought Teen Group: Young adults polish o pizza as they ponder library projects. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 4.

Read with Pugsley: See November 4.

Teen Space: See November 4.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Williston Preschool Music: See November 4.

FRANKLIN

Messy Mondays: See November 4.

RUTLAND

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See November 4.

WINDSOR

Young At Art: See November 4.

19 Tuesday

CHITTENDEN

Dog Man Party: Fans of this popular graphic novel series celebrate the newest release with a party. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2-3 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 4, 3-5 p.m. Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See November 5.

Spanish Musical Kids: See November 5.

Tinker Tuesdays: See November 5.

FRANKLIN

Tunes on Tuesdays: See November 5.

LAMOILLE

Free Family Art Workshops:

20 Wednesday

CALEDONIA

Hardwick Chess Club:

Zine-Making Series:

CHITTENDEN

Book to Film Club: bibliophiles take in a movie together while savoring snacks. See southburlingtonlibrary.org for the title. Ages 8 and up. South Burlington Public Library, 3-5:30 p.m. Info, 846-4140.

Dorothy’s List Group for Homeschooled Students: award generate group discussion. Grades 4-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956.

Green Mountain Book Award Book

Discussion for Homeschooled Students: High-school homeschoolers spark lively conversation around award-winning books. Grades 9-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956.

Kids’ Chess Club:

Lake Champlain Waldorf School Grade School

Morning Tour:

native education for their children visit the Turtle Lane Campus classes, followed by refreshments and Q&A. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 8:30-10 a.m., preregister. Info, 985-2827.

One-on-One Tutoring: p.m.

Read to a Dog:

20 Wednesday (cont.)

Red Clover Group for Homeschooled Students: Budding book lovers bury themselves in bibliophile activities. Grades K-4. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Wonder Wednesdays: See November 6.

Yoga for Kids: See November 6.

Young Writers & Storytellers: See November 13.

FRANKLIN

Art with Mr. Raymond: See November 6. Homeschool Program: Home learners band together to create an interactive project, using a story, a time limit and puzzle activities. Ages 8 and up. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m., preregister. Info, 524-1507. FREE

Story Times

Kids’ Anime Club: Fans of manga and anime learn about Japanese pop culture and sample snacks.

Ages 8-12. St. Albans Free Library, 3:30 p.m. Info, 524-1507. FREE

LAMOILLE

Varnum Lego Club: See November 6.

WASHINGTON

littleBits: Computer-crazy kiddos get creative.

Ages 6-11. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m., preregister. Info, 244-7036. FREE

21 Thursday

CALEDONIA

Free Family Art Workshops: See November 7.

Knitting for Kids: See November 7.

CHITTENDEN

Burlington Babytime: See November 7.

Colchester Lego Club: See November 7.

Dorothy’s List Book Discussion: Little literati make merry chatter around Fake Blood by Whitney Gardner. Grades 4-8. Milton Public Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Essex Lego Club: See November 7.

Preschool Yoga: See November 7.

Read to a Cat: Feline fanciers sign up for literacy sessions with a furry friend. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:30-4:30 p.m., preregister for a reading slot. Info, 878-4918. FREE Ukulele Joe: See November 7.

HIGHGATE STORY TIME: Highgate Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 868-3970.

HYDE PARK STORY TIME: See Monday, 10 a.m.

Williston Preschool Music: See November 4, 10:30 a.m.

FRANKLIN

Franklin Lego Thursdays: See November 7.

WASHINGTON

AB2: Books Come to Life: This Active BodyActive Brain class, led by literacy professional Rachel O’Donald, combines reading, music and movement. Babies through preschoolers. Waterbury Public Library, 10:15 a.m. Info, 244-7036. FREE

MOPS/MomsNext: See November 7.

22 Friday

CALEDONIA

Early literacy skills get special attention during these readaloud sessions. Some locations provide additional activities such as music, crafts or foreign-language instruction. Most story times follow the school calendar. Contact the organizers for site-specific details.

MONDAY

BARRE CHILDREN’S STORY HOUR: Aldrich Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 476-7550.

BURLINGTON STORIES WITH

MEGAN: Fletcher Free Library, Nov. 4, 11-11:30 a.m. Info, 865-7216.

COLCHESTER PRESCHOOL STORY

TIME: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 264-5660.

ESSEX STORYTIME WITH JASMINE: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 879-0313.

HUNTINGTON STORY TIME & PLAYGROUP: Huntington Public Library, 10 a.m.-noon. Info, 434-4583.

HYDE PARK STORY TIME: Lanpher Memorial Library, 6 p.m. Info, 888-4628.

NORTHFIELD CHILDREN’S STORY

TIME: Brown Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Info, 485-4621.

ST. ALBANS MOVEMENT & MUSIC

STORY HOUR: St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 524-1507.

STOWE STORY TIMES FOR 2-3-

YEAR-OLDS: Stowe Free Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Info, 253-6145.

WATERBURY BABY & TODDLER

STORY TIME: Waterbury Public Library, 10:15 a.m. Info, 244-7036.

WATERBURY PRESCHOOL STORY

TIME: The Children’s Room, 10:3011:15 a.m. Info, 244-5605.

WOODSTOCK BABY STORY TIME: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Info, 457-2295.

TUESDAY

ALBURGH PLAYGROUP/STORYTIME: Alburgh Public Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 796-6077.

BARRE CHILDREN’S STORY HOUR: See Monday.

COLCHESTER TODDLER STORY TIME: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 264-5660.

CRAFTSBURY STORY TIME: Craftsbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 586-9683.

EAST BARRE STORY TIME: East Barre Branch Library, 10 a.m. Info, 476-5118.

ESSEX JUNCTION PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Brownell Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Info, 878-6956.

JEFFERSONVILLE STORYTIME: Varnum Memorial Library, 9:3010:30 a.m. Info, 644-2117.

LYNDONVILLE STORY TIME: Cobleigh Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 626-5475.

MILTON INFANT STORY TIME: Milton Public Library, 9:30 a.m. Info, 893-4644.

MONTPELIER STORY TIME: KelloggHubbard Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 223-3338.

MORRISVILLE PRESCHOOL STORY

TIME: Morristown Centennial Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 888-3853.

SHELDON PLAY CAFE: Sheldon Public Library, 9-10:30 a.m. Info, 933-2524.

WILLISTON STORY TIME: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 878-4918.

WOODSTOCK PRESCHOOL STORY

TIME: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Info, 457-2295.

WEDNESDAY

BARNES & NOBLE STORYTIIME: Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 11 a.m. Info, 864-8001.

ESSEX BABIES AND BOOKS: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 879-0313.

ESSEX JUNCTION PRESCHOOL

STORY TIME: See Tuesday.

JERICHO STORY HOUR: Jericho Town Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 899-4686.

LYNDONVILLE STORY TIME: See Tuesday, 10:30 a.m.

MARSHFIELD STORY TIME & PLAYGROUP: Jaquith Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Info, 426-3581.

MILTON RHYTHM & MOVEMENT

TODDLER STORY TIME: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 893-4644.

NORWICH WORD PLAY STORY TIME: Norwich Public Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Info, 649-1184.

QUECHEE STORY TIME: Quechee Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 295-1232.

RANDOLPH PRESCHOOL STORY

TIME: Kimball Public Library, 11 a.m. Info, 728-5073.

SWANTON STORYTIME: Swanton Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 868-7656.

WARREN PRESCHOOL STORYTIME: Warren Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 496-3913.

THURSDAY

HINESBURG YOUNGSTER STORY

TIME: Carpenter-Carse Library, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Info, 482-2878.

JEFFERSONVILLE STORYTIME AND CRAFTS: Varnum Memorial Library, 10-11 a.m. Info, 644-2117.

NORTHFIELD CHILDREN’S STORY

TIME: See Monday.

RUTLAND STORY TIME: Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Info, 773-1860.

ST. ALBANS STORY HOUR: St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 524-1507.

WATERBURY PRESCHOOL STORY

TIME: Waterbury Public Library, 10:15 a.m. Info, 244-7036.

WESTFORD STORY TIME: Westford Public Library, 11 a.m. Info, 878-5639.

FRIDAY

COLCHESTER BABY STORY TIME: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 264-5660.

CRAFTSBURY STORY TIME: See Tuesday.

ENOSBURG READ & PLAY FRIDAYS: Enosburgh Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Info, 933-2328.

ESSEX MUSICAL STORY TIME: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 879-0313.

GEORGIA PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Georgia Public Library, 10 a.m. Info, 524-4643.

KILLINGTON STORYTIME: Sherburne Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Info, 422-9765.

LINCOLN STORY TIME: Lincoln Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 453-2665.

MILTON PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Info, 893-4644.

MONTPELIER STORY TIME: See Tuesday.

RANDOLPH TODDLER STORY TIME: Kimball Public Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Info, 728-5073.

ST. JOHNSBURY ACORN CLUB STORY TIME: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 748-8291.

STOWE BABY & TODDLER STORY TIME: Stowe Free Library, 10:3011:15 a.m. Info, 253-6145.

WILLISTON TODDLER TIME: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 878-4918.

SATURDAY COLCHESTER SATURDAY DROP-IN STORY TIME: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Info, 264-5660.

ENOSBURG STORY HOUR: Enosburgh Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Info, 933-2328.

ESSEX FAMILY STORYTIME: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 879-0313.

HIGHGATE STORY TIME: See Wednesday.

MILTON DROP-IN SATURDAY

STORYTIME: Milton Public Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Info, 893-4644.

NEXT CHAPTER BOOKSTORE STORY

TIME: Next Chapter Bookstore, Barre, 10:30 a.m. Info, 476-3114.

Fairbanks Homeschool Days: Students expand their science scholastic horizons in the museum’s galleries and other venues with a variety of programs. Contact the Museum for specific topics, age levels and locations. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., $8, or $50 for 9 Friday classes. Info, 748-2372.

CHITTENDEN

Dungeons & Dragons: See November 8.

Family Gym: See November 1.

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See November 1.

Music with Raph: See November 8.

Teen Movie Night: Adolescents enjoy a popular movie while savoring snacks. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 5 p.m. Info, 878-4918. FREE

ORLEANS

Craftsbury Lego Club: See November 1.

23 Saturday

ADDISON

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

CHITTENDEN

A Taste of Autumn on the Farm: Hungry folks prepare some tasty treats together while learning where favorite fall food in Vermont comes from. Ages 5 and up. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-noon, $3-7; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: See November 9.

Cookie Walk: Community members stop by and purchase homemade sweets to benefit the library. South Burlington Public Library, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info, 846-4140. FREE

Family Art Saturday: Families drop in and ignite their imaginations with a current exhibit, then get hands-on with an artistic endeavor. Burlington City Arts, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Info, 865-7166. FREE

Family Movie Afternoon: Following the library’s weekend storytime, families relax with a fun flick, a lunch brought from home and snacks. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, noon. Info, 879-0313. FREE

Family Playshop: See November 2.

Marvel Movie Marathon: Planned by the library’s teen group, back-to-back movies with themed snacks, crafts and games amuse fans of all ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Read to Cleo the Therapy Dog: See November 9.

South Burlington Family Storytime: Small ones soak up stories, songs and a craft to round out the hour. Ages 3 and up with caregiver. South Burlington Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 846-4140. FREE

Special Themed Storytime: Little library-goers enjoy frosty stories, songs and activities. Come dressed as your favorite “icy” character for extra fun. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 10:3011:30 a.m. Info, 879-0313. FREE

Webby’s Art Studio: See November 2.

FRANKLIN

Welcome Baby Story Time: New babies are welcomed to the library with nursery rhymes, songs and simple stories. Ages 2 and under with caregivers. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Info, 524-1507. FREE

RUTLAND

Vermont Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

WASHINGTON

Orchard Valley Holiday Market: This Waldorfinspired bazaar features fine crafts, books, local products and lunch fare. Vermont College of Fine Arts, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, 456-7400.

FREE

WINDSOR

Junk Music and Sound Experimentation

Workshop: Music lovers of all ages learn to make functioning instruments and noisemakers from common household items and garbage. ArtisTree/ Purple Crayon, South Pomfret, noon, $10; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Norwich Winter Farmers Market: See November 9.

24 Sunday

ADDISON

Family Play: See November 3.

CHITTENDEN

Essex Open Gym: See November 3.

Family Concert: See November 3.

Family Gym: See November 1.

25 Monday

CHITTENDEN

Colchester Preschool Music: See November 4.

Drop-In Lego Play: Amateur architects construct creatively. Ages 4 and up with adult. South Burlington Public Library, 5-7 p.m. Info, 846-4140.

FREE

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 4.

Stop Motion Animation: Smart kids play with the building blocks of story to create animation. Ages 7 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2:30-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Teen Space: See November 4.

Williston Preschool Music: See November 4.

FRANKLIN

Messy Mondays: See November 4.

RUTLAND

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See November 4.

WINDSOR

Young At Art: See November 4.

26 Tuesday

CHITTENDEN

One-on-One Tutoring: See November 4, 3-5 p.m.

Spanish Musical Kids: See November 5.

Strategy Board Games: See November 12.

Tinker Tuesdays: See November 5.

Vacation Story Time: Books, song and a puppet show engage small ones. Siblings welcome. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:30 a.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

Writing Games for Teens: In honor of National Novel Writing Month, adolescents play pastimes to get creative juices flowing. Grades 9-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE

FRANKLIN

Tunes on Tuesdays: See November 5.

LAMOILLE

Free Family Art Workshops: See November 12.

WASHINGTON

Montpelier Mother Up! Monthly Meet-Up: Families discuss the realities of climate change, what that means on a local, state and national level, and how to create a more just and nature-friendly world. Vegetarian dinner and childcare included. Unitarian Church of Montpelier, 5:30-7:30 p.m., RSVP requested but not required. Info, 612-7180229. FREE

Stamp Art Cards: Eager artists make mini masterpieces. Ages 6-11. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m., preregister. Info, 244-7036. FREE

27 Wednesday

CHITTENDEN

Dream Catchers Workshop: Artsy youngsters dig into a magical craft. Milton Public Library, 2-3:30 p.m., preregister. Info, 893-4644. FREE

Thanksgiving Break Movie: Families start o the holiday weekend with a live-action flick and snacks. All ages; children under age 10 must be accompanied by a caregiver. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 1 p.m. Info, 482-2878. FREE

WASHINGTON

Keva Family Free Build: Families stop in and spark their imagination with an abundance of wooden blocks. Ages 5 and up. Waterbury Public Library, noon-5 p.m. Info, 244-7036. FREE

NOVEMBER CALENDAR

28 Thursday

Happy Thanksgiving!

Playgroups

29 Friday

CHITTENDEN

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See November 1.

Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers, and caregivers connect with other local parents and peers. The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts, or music. Most playgroups follow the school calendar. Contact the organizer for site-specific details.

MONDAY

AUDUBON NATURE PLAYGROUP:

Audubon Vermont, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 434-3068.

BURLINGTON CRAWLERS, WADDLERS AND TODDLERS: Janet S. Munt Parent-Child Center, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Info, 862-2121.

JERICHO PLAYGROUP: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 10-11:30 a.m. Info, 760-8623.

MILTON PLAYGROUP: Milton Public Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 893-1457.

MORRISVILLE PLAYGROUP: River Arts, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 888-5229.

OPEN GYM: Central VT Gymnastics Academy, Waterbury, 10 a.m.-noon, $7-10. Info, 882-8324.

ROBIN’S NEST NATURE PLAYGROUP: North Branch Nature Center, 10 a.m.-noon, donations welcome. Info, 229-6206.

TUESDAY

BRADFORD PLAYGROUP: Grace United Methodist Church, 9-11 a.m. Info, 685-2264.

BRISTOL PLAYGROUP: Bristol Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 388-3171.

BROOKFIELD PLAYGROUP: First Congregational Church of Brookfield, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 685-2264.

BURLINGTON FATHERS AND CHILDREN TOGETHER: Janet S. Munt Parent-Child Center, 4-7 p.m. Info, 862-2121.

NORTHERN VERMONT UNIVERSITY ‘AQUATICS’ PLAYGROUP: Northern Vermont University, Johnson Campus, 9-10:30 a.m. Info, 888-5229.

WINOOSKI PLAYTIME: Winooski Family Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 655-1422.

WEDNESDAY BARRE PLAYGROUP: Aldrich Public Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 262-3292, ext. 115.

CAMBRIDGE COMMUNITY CENTER PLAYGROUP: Cambridge Community Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Info, 644-5028.

FAIRFIELD PLAYGROUP: Bent Northrop Memorial Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Info, 827-3945.

30 Saturday

ADDISON

Middlebury Winter Farmers Market: See November 2.

MAMA’S CIRCLE: Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-noon. Info, 595-7953.

NORTHFIELD PLAYGROUP: United Church of Northfield, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 262-3292.

PURPLE CRAYON PLAY GROUP: ArtisTree/Purple Crayon, Pomfret, 9:30-11:30 a.m., donations accepted. Info, 457-3500.

SOUTH ROYALTON PLAYGROUP: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 685-2264.

ST. JOHNSBURY TODDLER TIME: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m. Info, 748-1391.

WATERBURY MUSIC & MOVEMENT: The Children’s Room, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Info, 244-5605.

THURSDAY

DADS AND KIDS PLAYGROUP: Family Center of Washington County, Montpelier, 5-7 p.m. Info, 262-3292.

JOHNSON PLAYGROUP: United Church of Johnson, 9-10:30 a.m. Info, 888-5229.

MIDDLEBURY PLAYGROUP: The Congregational Church of Middlebury, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 388-3171.

MILTON PLAYGROUP: See Monday.

MONTPELIER PLAYGROUP: St. Augustine Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 262-3292.

RANDOLPH PLAYGROUP: St. John’s Church, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Info, 685-2264.

DECK THE HALLS!

December 7–8 Museum Grounds, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Celebrate the creative spirit of the holiday season with Shelburne Museum! Ring in this special time of year. Visit our festive trees. Participate in art activities. Enjoy the sounds of the season with area musicians, and wrap up holiday shopping with uncommon gifts at our Museum Store. Make merry with us! $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 5–17. FREE for Museum Members and children under 5.

SHELBURNE OPEN PLAY: Shelburne Field House, 9-11 a.m., $10 per child; $5 each additional child; $20 per family. Info, 985-4410.

UNDERHILL PLAYGROUP: Underhill

I.D. Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 899-4680.

WAITSFIELD PLAYGROUP: Big Picture Theater, 10-11:30 a.m. Info, 262-3292.

WILLISTON PLAYTIME: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m.noon. Info, 878-4918.

WINOOSKI PLAYTIME: See Tuesday.

FRIDAY CAMBRIDGE ELEMENTARY PLAYGROUP: Cambridge Elementary School, 9-11 a.m. Info, 888-5229.

FERRISBURGH OPEN GYM: Ferrisburgh Central School, 9-10:30 a.m. Info, 877-3463.

OPEN GYM: See Monday.

RUTLAND PLAYGROUP: Rutland Free Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 773-1860.

WATERBURY PLAYGROUP: Thatcher Brook Primary School, 10-11:30 a.m. Info, 262-3292.

WINOOSKI MOVE, PLAY, CONNECT PLAYGROUP: O’Brien Community Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 655-6424.

SATURDAY

MONTPELIER SATURDAY PLAYGROUP: Family Center of Washington County, Montpelier, 9:30-11 a.m. Info, 262-3292, ext. 190.

CHITTENDEN

Family Movie: Kids and their grownups snuggle in for a flick on the big screen. Snacks provided. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Info, 893-4644. FREE Family Playshop: See November 2.

Jingle Bell Express: All aboard! Holiday revelers take to the rails for a roundtrip train ride from Burlington to Charlotte, complete with a goodie bag from local businesses and sing-a-long visits from Santa, Frosty and friends. 1 Main St., Burlington, 10 a.m., noon & 2 p.m., $25; free for children under 3 who sit on an adult’s lap; proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House; preregister. Info, 863-5966.

Lego Fun: Budding builders bring out the blocks. Children under age 9 must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-4 p.m. Info, 878-6956. FREE Webby’s Art Studio: See November 2.

Women’s Festival Of Crafts: Female artisans sell jewelry, recycled and upcycled art, clothing, pottery and more just in time for the giving season. Burlington City Hall, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info, 888-2480. FREE

FRANKLIN

Festival of Trees: A Saturday night tree lighting ceremony and fireworks, breakfast with Santa, holiday stories, live music and a Friday night gala and auction are part of this week-long holiday extravaganza. See festivaloftreesvt.com for event details. Downtown St. Albans, various fees for select events; proceeds benefit Martha’s Kitchen and Franklin/Grand Isle Community Action.

RUTLAND

Vermont Winter Farmers Market: See November 2. K

Saysawyou it in

Conceal, Don’t Feel

How I came to understand my introverted daughter

You know that song in Frozen where Anna and Elsa are getting ready for the ball, their first big social engagement since Elsa found out she had magical (and dangerous) ice powers?

The whole first half of the song features bubbly Anna, giddily singing about how many salad plates her family has been hoarding and how she can’t wait to meet some “actual real-live people.” And then, at the bridge, the tone darkens and Elsa’s voice cuts through:

Don’t let them in.

Don’t let them see.

Be the good girl you always have to be. Conceal, don’t feel. Put on a show.

Make one wrong move and everyone will know.

The first time I heard it, a chill ran down my spine. Oh God, I thought. It’s my daughter, Joni. I spawned an Elsa! Afraid of her own power. Eager to please. Would probably lock herself in an ice castle if it meant she could keep her feelings to herself.

Like Elsa, Joni is an introvert. Quiet, thoughtful, careful. Full of deep, complex emotions she is highly skilled at concealing.

For the first five years of Joni’s life, I thought she was my polar opposite. I considered myself an extrovert, charged up by interactions with other people. She was like her dad, a true-blue introvert who would often just rather be drawing. I thought it was my job as Joni’s mother to help her see the world as I see it: full of interesting people waiting to be engaged in conversation.

Then, this fall, Joni started kindergarten.

It was difficult. Her teacher told us she was happy and thriving, but for the first couple of weeks she’d come home and come undone. Our loving, thoughtful, empathetic daughter would snap, and she’d become a violent, screaming monster. Her tantrums were frightening. And we felt powerless. So we made an appointment to see a family therapist.

It only took 50 minutes for the therapist to suss out the situation: Joni’s a highly sensitive, highly intelligent introvert who is overwhelmed. When these kinds of kids hit their emotional limit, she explained, they flip their lid in an especially intense way.

She recommended reading Susan Cain’s best-selling book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking

When that book came out in 2012, it got a lot of press. I remember reading reviews and thinking, Cool, but this book isn’t for me.

Then I read it.

Halfway through I found myself reassessing everything I thought I knew about who I am. Holy crap. I am not an extrovert at all. I am deeply introverted and always have been.

I was the kid who wouldn’t talk to anyone but my closest friends. My idea of a fun activity was creating a card catalog for my book collection. I remember the flush of embarrassment I felt when my parents threw me a surprise birthday party in high school and invited half the school. How I wanted to disappear.

But I learned early, as many introverts do, that our culture rewards extroverts. And that if social ease and outspokenness don’t come naturally, you can just fake it.

conversation.

I faked it so well that by the time I was 36, I firmly believed it. I trained myself to always have something to say. I learned to be fun at parties. I built a fortress of faux confidence around my sensitivity.

Joni isn’t different from me at all. I was Joni. I still am Joni, just with three decades of practiced social skills and a knack for cocktail parties.

After reading the book I felt such empathy for sweet, sensitive Joni, and for myself. I wanted to shout my revelation from the rooftops.

Instead, I got back to the book. Cain notes that introverts are better listeners, tend to think more before they speak and are less reckless than extroverts. She namedrops history-making introverts such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Albert Einstein and Rosa Parks.

The chapter about parenting an introvert is

called “Raising introverted children in a world that can’t hear them.”

That struck a nerve. It took Joni almost a week to tell me why she didn’t want to go back to the cafeteria to buy breakfast after the first time she did it.

There was a woman at the door whose job it is to check off the names of each kid who buys breakfast. She had asked Joni for her name, and Joni had likely mumbled it under her breath while looking at the floor. The woman couldn’t understand her.

So instead of skipping back to her classroom, Joni had to stand there in the cafeteria, clutching her breakfast, while the lady found someone who could identify her.

The next week, when Joni and I approached the school, we were met with a swarm of sixth graders awkwardly thrusting high fives at us. Joni physically recoiled. It was all part of the school’s well-intentioned inclusion campaign called “Start With Hello.” But it was an introverted kindergartner’s nightmare.

If I hadn’t read Cain’s book, I would have encouraged Joni to go for it. “Don’t leave him hanging!” I would have probably said.

Instead, I held my tongue and we pushed our way through. We both breathed a sigh of relief when we arrived at the safe haven of her classroom.

Cain acknowledges that school can be the most stressful part of an introverted kid’s life. When I pick up Joni at the end of the day, she is a zombie: glazed-over eyes and silent. In the first couple of weeks I peppered her with questions like, “Who did you sit with at lunch?” She wouldn’t even make eye contact. I felt rejected and worried.

But one afternoon, after I’d finished the book, I picked Joni up from school. Her little sister, Frankie, and I were listening to — you guessed it — the soundtrack from Frozen. Joni hopped in the car and immediately doubled over and covered her ears. “I don’t want to listen to this!” she shouted.

“But Frankie’s in the middle of listening!” I would have said just a week earlier.

Instead, I thought about Joni. How all day she is watching and absorbing and trying to keep up with the voices of the hundreds of kids and teachers around her. How exhausting that must be. How when she sees me at the end of the day, she just wants to turn off and recharge.

“Joni needs some quiet time,” I told Frankie, seeing the world at last the way Joni sees it. And I turned the music off. K

Planning a kids event?

events by November 15th online at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com

PUZZLE PAGE ANSWERS

SEE PAGE 26 FOR PUZZLES

Because it is good for the bones.

Why should a skeleton drink a lot of milk?

CODED RIDDLE:

She was learning about retinas, corneas and lenses on her “EYE” PAD

I thought it was my job as Joni’s mother to help her see the world as I see it: full of interesting people waiting to be engaged in

MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY BEARY AND BRIGHT

Open 7 days a week

6655 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne • 802.985.1319

• Experience our one-of-a-kind retail store - browse hundreds of Bears, hold the World’s Softest Collection and stand in the shadow of our Big Bears up to eight feet tall

• Holiday Gifts - Discover fun, one-of-a-kind, personalized gifts for everyone on your Holiday List

• Make your own Bear in the Vermont Teddy Bear Design Studio - Roll up your sleeves to design, assemble, stuff and sew your very own custom Vermont Teddy Bear

• Behind-the-Scenes Factory Tours Daily - Watch out artisans design, sew and stuff our Bears with love, bringing them to life with skillful attention to detail

• Holiday Events - Check our Facebook Events Page for exciting family events happening throughout the month of December!

FOR Coloring Contest!

Three winners will each receive an annual family membership to the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium. Send Kids VT your work of art by November 15. Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 5 and younger, (2) ages 6-8 and (3) ages 9-12. Winners will be named in the December-January issue of resolution scans to , P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. Phone Kids VT. Send your highart@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT

KIDS JUST FOR

Birthday Club

Congratulations to

these November Birthday Club winners! Join the Club!

To enter, submit information using the online form at kidsvt.com/birthday-club

Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled.

ABRIE lives in Hyde Park and turns 6 on November 15. She’s a funny, outgoing girl who enjoys music, dancing tap and ballet, and watching movies (Star Wars is a recent favorite). She likes card games and playing with her My Little Pony figurines, and loves her kitty, Bear.

ABRIE wins four day passes and four 3D movie tickets to ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington.

ARIANA lives in Moretown and turns 7 on November 5. She loves art, dance, gymnastics, swimming and fostering cats for the local Humane Society.

Ariana, Hugo and Josephine each win four ECHO day passes.

COLORING CONTEST WINNERS

Creepy cats cracked up our judges this month. Ten-yearold Leïla created a black-andwhite beauty surrounded by ghosts flying through a graveyard. Joan, 8, added giant claws to her kitty, with a scary skull ornament swishing from its curled tail. Five-year-old Clara used crayon to add rainbows to her feline’s fur, with a candy-corn-colored background. Thanks for all the festive fall submissions — and kudos to the talented artists.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

“THE NIGHT WE WENT OUT”

Samantha Frank, 6, Burlington

“HAPPY HAUNTED HALLOWEEN”

Iris Palisson, 6, Waterbury

“BEST SCARE EVER”

Brooklyn Belfield, 9, Jericho

“BLACK CAT ON HALLOWEEN”

Lily Charbonneau, 10, Barre

“HALLOWEEN COLORED TIGER IN HALLOWEEN COSTUME”

Jenny Blanshine, 11, Charlotte

“AUTUMN GOLD”

Mia Krois, 9, Essex

“GROWLIE”

Henry Miller, 4, Northfield Falls

“MEOWY PUMPKIN”

Kennedy LaVigne, 5, Fairfax

“I GOT MY HEAD STUCK”

Hailey Smith, 8, Swanton

“GHOST CAT”

The winners of annual family memberships to the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium are…

JOSEPHINE lives in Milton and turns 7 on November 25. She loves craft projects, being silly, swimming, gymnastics, nature and learning — especially about space. She is a friend to everyone and wants to train dolphins when she grows up.

HUGO lives in Burlington and turns 5 on November 22. He’s a fun-loving, creative and kind kid who loves noodles, hockey and going on adventures with his family and friends.

Emmett Wade, 4, Burlington

“I HOPE I DON’T SCARE YOU”

Bari Tornwini, 8, South Burlington

“CLOUD AMAZE”

Maggie Tracy, 7, South Burlington

TOP TITLES

“TROPICAL DESSERT TIGER”

Brooke McEnany, 4, Sheldon

“HOCUS POCUS CAT!”

Raelyn Millette, 6, Williston

“PURR-FECT PUMPKIN PIRATE”

Lauren Hill, 9, Ferrisburgh

Writing Contest

We received so many great entries last month, we want to see your comic-creating talents again! Use the panels below to create an original comic strip with the title “Thanksgiving Dinner.”

THANKSGIVING DINNER

SPONSORED BY WRITING CONTEST WINNERS

“Pickle and Pumpkin” Felicity Barras, 8 SOUTH BURLINGTON

“Halloween Humor” Norah Heikel, 11 WINOOSKI

Name Age Town Email Phone

We’ll pick two winners and publish their names and comic strips in the next issue. Winners receive a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop. Deadline to enter is November 15.Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Writing Contest, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

Jumble

BY DAVID L. HOYT & JEFF KNUREK

The letters of these crazy words are all mixed up. To play the game, put them back into the right order so that they make real words you can find in your dictionary. Write the letters of each real word under each crazy word, but only one letter to a square.

Kid-Created Art

At 12 years old, Silas is a dedicated artist. He likes to use pencil, pen and alcoholbased markers for his work. He does realistic drawings and lately has been creating lots of colorful cartoon work. Silas also plays guitar, skis, and is an avid rock climber. He has a black belt in tae kwon do. At home in Vergennes, he can be found building complex Lego sets, playing with his dog, Oakley, and jumping on his trampoline.

You are now ready to solve this month’s Jumble For Kids. Study the picture for a hint. Then play around with the letters in the circles. You’ll find you can put them in order so that they make your funny answer.

Puzzles4Kids

Coded Riddle

Print

your answer here:

BY HELENA HOVANEC

Change each letter to the one that comes immediately BEFORE it in the alphabet to find a riddle and its answer. Here’s a copy of the alphabet to guide you:

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Lily, an eighth grader at Shelburne Community School, recently reignited her love of art and is thrilled to be taking classes at Davis Studio. Her weekly art class not only serves as a vehicle for inspiration, creativity and self-expression, but it provides a safe, judgmentfree space to explore her talents, build confidence, think imaginatively and focus her attention. Lily hopes to be able to express herself artistically. When she isn’t drawing you might find Lily playing soccer, basketball or lacrosse. She also enjoys music and plays both piano and flute.

ANSWERS P. 47

To learn more about art classes at the Davis Studio, visit davisstudiovt.com.

“PIXIE PARTY,” PEN & INK AND ILLUSTRATION MARKER, LILY O’BRIEN, 14

“CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST AND ARTIST CHARLES W. WHITE,” IN ARTISTS PENCILS, SILAS QUINN, 12