Colorado Parent March 2024

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EDITORIAL

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ESTATE PLANNING SERIES: Q&A SESSION FOR PARENTS

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Brandon J. Campbell, a Law Partner at Opfer | Campbell | Beck P.C., answers some of the most frequently asked questions.

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good to know

contents

Encountering Wildlife Survival Guide

A Myth: If a rattlesnake bites you, do not suck out the venom. This is an old tale that has been proven a myth, and by sucking on the bite, you’re exposing bacteria to the wound. Instead, seek immediate medical attention.

A Tip: Mountain lions do not see humans as prey when they are standing up, but a person who is squatting or bending, the lion categorizes them as potential prey.

BY AUSTRIA COHN

PHOTO BY WIRESTOCK ON FREEPIK.COM

A Rhyme: to help remember what to do when seeing various bears is, “If it’s brown, lay down. If it’s black, fight back. If it’s white, goodnight.”

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Black Bears

Spot the Animal: Back away if possible, but do not turn your back on the animal.

Animal is Aggressive: Make yourself look big and intimidating, and be loud. If attacked, fight back.

Rattlesnakes

Spot the Animal: Slowly back away.

Animal is Aggressive: If you hear a rattle, do not jump or panic. Locate where the sound is coming from before you move because you don’t want to step closer to the snake or on top of it. Once located, calmly back away.

Mountain Lions

Spot the Animal: Hold your ground or back away slowly.

Do not run from the lion or approach it.

Animal is Aggressive: If a mountain lion moves in your direction or is aggressive, wave your arms and speak in a loud, firm voice. If the lion is not scared off, throw stones or branches in the direction of the animal, but do not hit it.

good to know 10

Local Unified Beyond the Field

12

Solutions The Transformative Power of Sleepaway Camp

14

Things We Love Peep Peep Hurray

16

RoundUp Camp Listing

Coyote

Spot the Animal: Try to scare the coyote away by yelling, making yourself look big, maintaining eye contact, and being loud. Do not turn and run.

Animal is Aggressive: If a coyote tries to attack, fight back and continue to yell to scare it off.

Mountain Goats

Spot the Animal: If approached, slowly retreat, giving them space to move freely. Stay at least 50 yards away from them (half the length of a football field).

Animal is Aggressive: If a mountain goat continues to approach, try to chase it off by yelling, throwing rocks, and waving your arms. If it charges, use the horns to push the goat’s head sideways.

Moose/Elk

Spot the Animal: Talk and make your presence known while you slowly back away in the direction you came.

Animal is Aggressive: If the animal charges, run behind a large obstacle because they may lose interest once the threat is out of sight. If knocked down, curl into a ball and lie still (protecting your head) until it retreats.

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features 24

Camp to Career: Preparing Children for Success

26

How Do I Still Love Backpacking?

29

Is Daylight Saving Time Still a Thing?

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 7

good to know

contents 16

Here’s the editor’s go-to recipe for a tart, sweet, peanutbuttery breakfast.

Grab your mason jar and add these ingredients in order: • ⅓ Cup of Coach’s Oats (Costco sells a big ol’ pack!)

• 1 Gracious Handful of Raspberries • Coconut Milk: For a thicker texture (preferred), add just enough milk to cover the top.

• 1 Tbsp of NuttZo (Another Costco Steal!)

• 1-2 Drizzles of Agave Optional: For a crunch, add some granola.

Don’t mix! Place the lid on the jar and stick it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, stir it all together and enjoy your Raspberry Peanut Butter, Oh-So-Good, Overnight Oats!

Rise and Shine with Overnight Oats

BY AUSTRIA COHN

PHOTO BY STOCKKING ON FREEPIK.COM

Editor’s Recipe:

happenings 31

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding a quick, delicious, and nutritious breakfast can be a challenge.

But fear not! Overnight oats, also known as “oats in a jar,” have become a go-to breakfast solution for those who want a wholesome and satisfying start to their day without the morning rush. The best part? Overnight oats are endlessly customizable!

Base Ingredients

Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are a popular choice because of their flat and flakey texture. Yet, steel-cut oats add a unique texture and typically take longer to digest, so you’ll feel full for longer.

Liquid: Milk or an alternative milk (almond, coconut, oat) is perfect for soaking the oats. For a thicker texture, add just enough liquid to cover the top of the oats (preferred way). If you like a smoother finish, add more milk.

Sweeteners & Flavor Enhancers: This is a

healthier option for breakfast, so if you need sweeteners, add agave, honey, or another naturally sweet ingredient.

Consider adding vanilla extract, cinnamon, or even cocoa powder to enhance the flavor.

Fruits: You might find that you don’t need any

sweeteners because the fruit adds a lot! Some popular fruits to add are berries (blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries), bananas, and apple chunks if you like some crunch.

Crunch, Crunch, Crunch! Granola, nuts, or crunchy peanut butter are great ways to mix up the texture.

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Our Top Picks for March

34

To Do Today

fresh mindset 38

Meet Lori Holden

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 9

good to know

Unified Beyond the Field

BY AUSTRIA COHN

We have a lot of athletes that come to us having had a really negative experience with sports, where they’re the last person picked for the team.

Seeing your child on the field, court, or even in the pool is something most parents take pride in. It’s exciting to see our athletes play, whether it’s a toddler who doesn’t know what’s going on and is just running around on the court or the high school varsity athlete who has trained for the final game. Whether they win or lose, the support and cheers from family members and friends will stick with them for a lifetime.

On the other hand, athletes find a sense of community when they play sports, from their coach patting them on the back after the game to their teammates who turn into their closest friends. Children who play sports learn life skills, get consistent exercise, and build relationships they will never forget.

But for children with intellectual disabilities, the dream of becoming an athlete let alone receiving a letter, seemed far-fetched for a long time. These students have had coaches who weren’t properly trained, and they have often found themselves benched, cut from teams, or consistently picked last in gym class. For many, the introduction to sports was very negative. Yet, the narrative of neurodivergent athletes is changing because of organizations like Special Olympics Colorado. This program intentionally promotes meaningful social inclusion by bringing together students with and without intellectual disabilities.

“Parents and athletes have been told what they can’t do,” says Megan Scremin, the CEO of Special Olympics Colorado. “We

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want them to come to Special Olympics and introduce them to a world where they see all of the things that they can currently do and will be able to do.”

This nonprofit has over 20,500 athletes participating in 21 different sports locally and internationally. They continue to break down barriers through inclusive programs that start as early as age two and continue for a lifetime. Especially for young athletes, the organization gets to welcome them into the world of sports in a positive and nurturing setting.

One key initiative is the Special Olympics Unified Champion School program for students in Pre-K through university. The intention is to create an accepting school environment. For example, at the high school level, just as there is a JV and varsity team, there is a unified team that is competing in their sport.

“They wear the same uniforms, they play a competitive schedule, they have fans in the stands, and they letter in their sport. They are getting that same school sports experience that every other student is able to get,” Scremin says and explains the nonprofit is in about 650 schools in Colorado.

Every day, Special Olympics Colorado is positively impacting the lives of neurodivergent and neurotypical students, athletes, and adults. Nathan Abeyta-Duran, who is just eight years old and neurodivergent, has participated in several different sports, including soccer, football, swimming, and

skiing. Besides playing in these sports, he has also made many new friends. Nathan says if you want to play a sport, to not be scared because everyone is so nice.

Just like anything, not every sport calls to every athlete. New athletes have a chance to explore a sport in a non-threatening environment without any commitment through the Learn to Play A Sport event. These types of clinics are a great way to test the waters and see if it will be a good fit.

The programs Special Olympics Colorado offers, not only impact these athletes socially and physically, but they are also learning life skills that are carried into their adulthood.

“Nationally, about 15 percent of people with intellectual disabilities are employed; compare that to 64 percent of our Special Olympics athletes who are employed,” Scremin says. “We’re trying to impact the entire athlete, their entire family, and the community.”

Whether your kiddo is excited to get on the field or is feeling shy, there is a team waiting for them. To learn more about the programs Special Olympics offers, head to their website at specialolympicsco.org or bring the family to see a game.

“There is a place for you at Special Olympics. If you just want to come witness a basketball game or a unified event within your school or community, all you have to do is show up. We guarantee you a day of joy and inclusion,” Scremin explains.

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Here comes the fun!

PARKER ARTS PARTNERS WITH SOME OF THE BEST ENRICHMENT PROVIDERS IN COLORADO TO OFFER HALF-DAY AND FULL-DAY OPTIONS IN THEATER, ART, SCIENCE, AND MORE!

PARKERARTS.ORG

LUNCH BUNCH OPTION For a full day of enrichment at Parker Arts, select corresponding weekly camps in the morning and afternoon and have your camper attend a free, supervised lunch with Parker Arts staff.

Call 303.805.3374 or email PACEedu@parkeronline.org to reserve Lunch Bunch for your camper.

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 11

good to know

PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

The Transformative Power of

Sleepaway Camp

BY MADISON VOORHIES Sending your child to a sleepaway camp is a huge step in your child’s life– even if you don’t realize it! Summer camps offer great ways for children to grow emotionally and socially while making new friends and building new life skills along the way. We know it may seem nerve-wracking to send your children away for a week-long– or even month-long– overnight camp experience, but we’re here to reassure you it will all be okay.

Tommy Feldman is the director of Camp Granite Lake, a small, family-owned, co-ed sleepaway camp just outside of Denver, Colorado. But what makes Feldman even more of a camp expert? His own children attend other summer sleepaway camps, so he knows what it’s like to be on both sides and is here to help grant some peace of mind throughout this process.

Where to Start We’re all about healthy communication here so it’s no surprise we advise you to talk with your child about what the camp they’re going to is like and what they hope to gain from their camp experience. After all, “an uninformed child is a child that is not going to succeed and thrive in a camp environment,” says Feldman. It’s important to help your child choose a camp that not only aligns with their interests and personal hobbies but also your family values.

“There are so many factors to consider beyond price, beyond schedule, and location,” explains Feldman, “Looking for the right kinds of activities and making sure that the philosophy based on caring for the social and emotional development of your child aligns with your goals as a parent.”

Your child may also be nervous about attending a sleepaway camp for the first time, so Feldman also advises exploring the camp websites together and leaving room for children to ask questions, look at pictures, and overall just spark a conversation about the experience. Most camps nowadays offer opportunities to meet with camp directors or counselors beforehand so that no question goes unanswered before your child leaves.

Many families have children with special needs, whether it’s related to their development, dietary requirements, or

12 COLORADO PARENT MARCH 2024

any other accommodations. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available for all children, regardless of their background or physical condition. However, it’s essential to ask camp directors questions to ensure that the camp can genuinely provide a safe and inclusive environment for your child.

Addressing First-Time Jitters Oftentimes, children attend sleepaway camps by themselves or with siblings, if they have any. Inviting friends is a great way to calm your child’s nerves, but remind them that summer camps are all about making new friends, even if it is a little scary. Another good practice to ease children’s nerves is having them sleep away from home before they go.

“For kids who have never been away to sleepaway camp or never been away from home for even a night,” Feldman says, “[that is] really the first step to making a child comfortable with spending the night away.”

He describes these small sleepovers with friends or even family members as bridges to what sleepaway camp really is: either a seven-, or 20-, or 30-day sleepover with all of your new best friends.

You can also help your child pack for their upcoming trip and ask them questions about what they’re bringing. Maybe you can remind them to pack their favorite T-shirt or remind them of little things they might forget.

Staying In Touch Sometimes, parents are more ready to send their child away to camp than the child is.

On the flip side, many children are thrilled to finally catch a break from their parents for the summer. Regardless, staying in touch with your child is extremely important to both of you.

Feldman explains how parents who continuously offer to rescue their child from camp under any non-emergent circumstances “are actually undermining the entire message you’re trying to send to your child and undermining the experience altogether.”

Most camps allow for children and parents to communicate via letters in the mail (you remember… the old-fashioned way) and some even allow for electronic letters,

but that often depends on the camp itself and its location. Writing letters is great for both parents and campers, as parents can continuously provide positive reinforcement to their children. Remind them that you believe in them, and they will have a great time, and they will succeed, as opposed to going on about how much you miss them.

The Importance of Communication When asked what kinds of activities children can look forward to at camp, Feldman immediately highlights one thing camps won’t be including in their daily itinerary: screen time! While connecting with the outdoors is a huge component of summer camps, many camps focus on the social development of the child too.

Children these days are accustomed to communicating through screens, using apps such as Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok, to name a few. As a result, they may not feel as comfortable with face-to-face interactions.

However, according to Feldman, this is actually the most common activity that they engage in. They often sit in bunks and have conversations as they drift off to sleep.

This enables children to create their own community and establish their own rules.

Summer sleepaway camps, like Camp Granite Lake and many others, offer a wide range of physical extracurricular activities suitable for athletes of all skill levels. From archery, hiking, and climbing to water sports like sailing, canoeing, and paddle boarding, there’s something for everyone. But if sports aren’t your child’s cup of tea, they can also indulge in arts and crafts, theater, dance, and even ceramics.

Long-Term Benefits “This experience is truly transformative for the children,” Feldman asserts. At camp, kids acquire valuable life skills that may be challenging for parents to impart.

By prioritizing independence, camps teach campers decision-making skills, how to care for themselves and leave them feeling capable of achieving more than they thought possible. This is perhaps the most significant takeaway from the camp experience, whether it’s seven days, 20 days, or 30 days long.

ADVERTORIAL

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 13

good to know

Things We

Love

Peep Peep Hurray

Make room in your Easter baskets for these sweet, fun, and entertaining Easter basket goodies.

1

The Spring Smencils 5-Pack is perfect for your child’s Easter basket and pencil case.

Writing never smelled so good! $7.99, scentcoinc.com

2

Perfect for LEGO lovers! The Plus+Plus Mini Maker Tube Bunny is a great activity for your little builders and makers. $7.99, amazon.com

3

Give the gift of pampering this Easter with the Bunny Cosmetic Headband that is perfect for showering, face washing, or just lounging around the house. $16.99, amazon.com

5 4

The Peter Rabbit Book and Toy combo is a classic and loved story that is perfect for Easter time. $10.99, target.com

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The Easter Tote Bag Coloring Kit is a perfect way to get crafty in a fun, functional, and ecofriendly way. $14.99, barnesandnoble.com

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 15

good to know

RoundUp Camp Listing

BY AUSTRIA COHN Enrich your child’s summer with valuable life skills and unforgettable camp memories! Explore our diverse selection of camps, offering everything from team-building activities to engaging educational programs that your little one will adore.

Creative Arts

Art Students League of Denver 200 Grant St., Denver (303) 778-6990 asld.org Ages: 6-17 Dates: June 3-August 9 Rates: $170-400 (scholarships available)

Dates: June 10-July 26 Rates: Vary Camp Invention 800 8th Ave., Frisco invent.org Grades: K-6 Dates: June 17-21 Rates: $270

Creative Camps at Studio Arts Boulder 1010 Aurora Ave., Boulder (720) 379-6033 studioartsboulder.org/camps Ages: 6-16 Dates: Vary Rates: Vary

CU Science Discovery 1560 30th St., Boulder (303) 492-7188 colorado.edu/sciencediscovery/ Grades: K-12 Dates: June 3-August 2 Rates: $235+

Girls Create Summer Camps 3300 W. Nevada Pl., Denver (303) 219-0882 athenaprojectarts.org Ages: 11-16 Dates: July 8-August 2 Rates: $275-300

Gold Crown Foundation Summer STEAM Camps Multiple Locations (303) 233-6776 goldcrownfoundation.com Grades: 6-12 Dates: June-August Rates: Vary

MindCraft STEAM Summer Camps 2501 Dallas St., Ste. 228, Aurora (303) 341-4065 mindcraftmakerspace.com Ages: 5-12 Dates: June 10-August 9 Rates: $285-400

Education

Lighthouse Writers Workshop: Young Writers Summer Camps 3844 Tork St., Denver (303) 297-1185 lighthousewriterrs.org Ages: Vary Dates: Vary Rates: Vary

Bird Camps: Day Camps 14500 Lark Bunting Ln., Brighton (303) 659-4348 birdconservatory.org Ages: 4-13 Dates: June 3-August 7 Rates: $120-340

MindCraft STEAM & Academic Camps 2501 Dallas St., Ste. 228, Aurora (303) 341-4065 mindcraftmakerspace.com Ages: 5-15 Dates: June 10-August 9 Rates: $285-400

Camp Galileo 5354 S. Field St., Denver 3752 Tennyson St., Denver 4545 Sioux Dr., Boulder (800) 854-3684 galileo-camps.com Grades: K-8

MindCraft STEAM & Academic Camps 2501 Dallas St., Ste. 228, Aurora (303) 341-4065 mindcraftmakerspace.com Ages: 5-12 Dates: June 10-July 12 Rates: $3,825-4,250

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PALS Chess Camps Denver, Parker, Highlands Ranch, and Colorado Springs (720) 504-8765 palschess.com Ages: 5-17 Dates: June 10-July 26 Rates: $189-449 Rosie’s Discovery Camp 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster (720) 375-9986 butterflies.org Ages: 5-12 Dates: June 3-August 9 Rates: $295-305 STEAM & Tech Camp 10455 W. 6th Ave., Ste. 150, Denver (720) 266-2143 Ages: 6-12 Dates: June, July, August Rates: $275-325 Super Star Reading Camp - Denver 1800 Pontiac St., Denver (720) 235-5935 everychildreading.net Ages: 7-13 Dates: June 10-July 12 Rates: $2,050-2,950 Super Star Reading Camp - Lakewood 1100 Upham St., Lakewood (720) 235-5935 everychildreading.net Ages: 7-13 Dates: June 10-July 12 Rates: $2,050-2,950 Super Star Reading Camp - Vail 3000 Booth Falls Rd., Vail (720) 235-5935 everychildreading.net Ages: 7-13 Dates: June 17-July 12 Rates: $2,900-4,100 TACT 2960 S. Umatilla St., Englewood (303) 295-0163

good to know buildwithtact.org Ages: 5-30 Dates: June 20-August 9 Rates: Vary Wings Over the Rockies 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver 13005 Wings Way, Centennial (303) 360-5360 wingsmuseum.org Ages: 8-12 Dates: May 28-August 9 Rates: $439 Young Americans Center for Financial Education 3550 E. First Ave., Denver (303) 321-2265 yacenter.org/summer-camps Ages: 8-13 Dates: June 10-August 2 Rates: $275

Performing Arts

Aerial Summer Camps 3022 E. Sterling Cir., Ste. 150, Boulder (303) 245-8272 frequentflyers.org/camps/ Ages: 5-17 Dates: June 3-July 19 Rates: $300-500 Amethyst Aerial Arts 9083 W. Peakview Dr., Littleton (720) 273-3119 amethystaerial.com Ages: 5-12 Dates: May 31-July 27 Rates: $200-400 Colorado Conservatory of Dance 3001 Industrial Ln. #12, Broomfield (303) 466-5685 ccdance.org/summer Ages: 5-8 Dates: June 17-July 27 Rates: $480 Kids Comedy Camp at Chaos Bloom Theater 70 S. Broadway, Denver (720) 432-3581 chaosbloom.com Ages: 9-15 Dates: June-July Rates: $350 International School of Denver 7701 E. First Pl., Unit C, Denver (303) 340-3647 isdenver.org/summer Ages: 3-14 Dates: June 10-August 2 Rates: $325-550 Music Creators

2960 Speer Blvd., Denver (303) 871-6543 newmancenterpresents.com/education Ages: 13-16 Dates: June 10-14 & June 17-21 Rates: $475 Northglenn Arts 1 E. Memorial Pkwy., Northglenn (303) 450-8888 northglennarts.org Ages: 6-16 Dates: June-August Rates: Vary Parkers Arts Camps 19650 Mainstreet, Parker (303) 805-3374 parkerarts.org/education Ages: Vary Date: Vary Rates: Varies Parker Arts Culture and Events Center 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker (303) 805-6800 parkerarts.org Ages: Vary Dates: Vary Rates: Vary Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids Summer Camps 3425 S. Broadway, Englewood 5311 Western Ave., Ste. 135, Boulder (303) 245-8150 theaterforkids.net Ages: Vary Dates: Vary Rates: Vary School of Rock Denver Summer Performance Camps 560 S. Holly St. #15, Denver (720) 221-6991 schoolofrock.com Ages: 8-18 Dates: Multiple Sessions Rates: $450 Summer Dance Camp 3001 Industrial Ln., Broomfield (303) 466-5685 ccdance.org Ages: 5-12 Dates: June 17-July 27 Rates: $480-580 Summer Musical Theatre Camp 27608 Fireweed Dr., Evergreen (303) 674-4002 ovationwest.org Ages: 5-18 Dates: June 2-14 Rates: Vary

Sports, Fitness, & Nutrition AF Sports Camps 2169 Field House Dr., USAFA (719) 333-2116 GoAirForceFalcons.com/camps Ages: 8-18 Dates: June 10-24 Rates: $500-1,000

Denver Equestrians Riding School 5200 W. Coal Mine Ave., Littleton (303) 973-0077 denverequestrians.com Ages: Vary Dates: Vary Rates: Vary Gold Crown Foundation Summer Sports Camp 150 S. Harlan St., Lakewood (303) 233-6776 goldcrownfoundation.com Ages: Vary Dates: June-August Rates: Vary SafeSplash Swim School Lone Tree, Park Hill, and Aurora (303) 625-9917 safesplash.com Ages: Vary Dates: Vary Rates: Vary Woodward Copper Summer Camp 509 Copper Rd., Copper Mountain (866) 677.1689 coppercolorado.com Ages: Vary Dates: June-August Rates: Vary

Traditional

ABLE to Sail Youth Empowerment Camp Union Reservoir, 0461 County Rd. 26, Longmont (720) 233-8969 abletosail.org Ages: 12-18 Dates: June-August Rates: $395 Adventure Quest with Renaissance Adventures Denver, Boulder, Longmont, Louisville (303) 786-9216 renaissanceadventures.com Ages: 6-17 Dates: Multiple Sessions Rates: Vary Boulder Country Day School Summer Camp 4820 Nautilus Ct. N., Boulder (303) 527-4931 MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 17

good to know bouldercountryday.org/summer Ages: 3-13 Dates: June-July Rates: $185-690 Camp Greenwood 5801 S. Quebec St., Greenwood Village (720) 838-2496 greenwoodcamps.com Ages: 5-12 Dates: Vary Rates: Vary ​ olorado Adventure Point C 10455 W. 6th Ave., Denver (720) 266-2233 coloradoadventurepoint.org Ages: 6-12 Dates: June-August Rates: $275+

Rates: Vary

Rates: $599

Knight Teen Leadership with Renaissance Adventure Denver, Boulder, Longmont, Louisville (303) 786-9216 renaissanceadventures.com Ages: 14-17 Dates: Multiple Sessions Rates: $110-300

Summer Camp at The Behavioral Exchange 500 Discovery Pkwy., Superior (720) 647-8541 behaviorexchange.com Ages: Vary Dates: Vary Rates: Vary

Little People’s Landing Multiple Locations (303) 972-0787 littlepeopleslanding.com Ages: Vary Dates: Vary Rates: Vary

Curious Jane 55 Clermont St., Denver (908) 433-0528 curiousjane.fun/camp/denver Grades: K-9 Dates: Vary Rates: Vary

Magic Cards & Games with Renaissance Adventures 101 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder (303) 786-9216 renaissanceadventures.com Ages: 10-17 Dates: August 12-13 Rates: $219

Denver Academy Summer Program 4400 E. Illiff Ave., Denver (303) 777-5870 denveracademy.org Ages: 6-18 Dates: June 10-July 3 Rates: $195-925

Ocean Discovery Camp 3015 Bluff St., Boulder (303) 444-7234 oceanfirst.blue/swim-camps-and-programs Ages: 9-12 Dates: June 24-27 or July 8-11 Rates: $300

Denver YMCA Summer Camp 2625 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver denverymca.org Ages: 5-15 Dates: June 3-August 16 Rates: $100-500

PlayQuest with Renaissance Adventures 6717 S. Boulder Rd., Boulder (303) 786-9216 renaissanceadventures.com Ages: 6-17 Dates: Multiple Sessions Rates: $250

Dream Big Day Camp 2450 S. Wabash St., Denver (303) 377-1805 dreambigdaycamp.com Ages: 4-17 Dates: June 3-August 9 Rates: $325-690 Dungeon Delvers with Renaissance Adventures Denver, Boulder, Longmont (303) 786-9216 renaissanceadventures.com Ages: 10-17 Dates: Multiple Sessions Rates: Vary Iliff Preschool Summer Adventure Daycamp 4140 E. Iliff, Denver (303) 757-3551 iliffpreschool.com Grades: Post KG-12 Dates: Vary

18 COLORADO PARENT MARCH 2024

Primrose School of Denver Central Park Denver North & Thornton Summer Adventure Cub (303) 271-1237 primroseschools.com Grades: K-5 Dates: Vary Rates: Vary Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp 805 S. Shields St., Fort Collins (970) 493-5258 Ages: 6-18 Dates: Vary Rates: Vary Star Quest with Renaissance Adventures 101 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder (303) 786-9216 renaissanceadventures.com Ages: 10-17 Dates: Multiple Sessions

Swim and Marine Science Camp 3015 Bluff St., Boulder (303) 444-7234 oceanfirst.blue/swim-camps-and-programs Ages: 5-8 Dates: July 22-25 or August 5-8 Rates: $228

International School of Denver 7701 E. First Pl., Unit C, Denver (303) 340-3647 isdenver.org/summer Ages: 3-14 Dates: June 10-August 2 Rates: $325-550 YMCA of the Rockies 1101 County Rd. 53, Granby (970) 887-2648 campchiefouray.org Ages: 5-17 Dates: Vary Rates: Vary

Overnight Camp

AEI Base Camp 2 Illinois Creek Rd., Almont (970) 641-4708 aeibasecamp.com Ages: High School and Up Dates: June-August Rates: $700-1,200 Ajax Sleepaway 28525 Brush Creek Rd., Meredith (970) 718-6008 ajaxsleepaway.com Ages: 8-13 Dates: June 23-August 10 Rates: $1,853 (1 week) & $3,515 (2 weeks) Bird Camps: Overnight Camps 14500 Lark Bunting Ln., Brighton (303) 659-4348 birdconservatory.org Ages: 12-17 Dates: June 20-July 12 Rates: $950-1,400 Camp Colorado 238 N. County Hwy. 67, Sedalia (303) 688-4491 campcolorado.org Ages: 8-18 Dates: Vary Rates: $200-300

2024 Camp Showcase When it comes to summer plans, Colorado Parent has you covered.

Discover the best summer camps and experiences all in one place!

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There are warm summer nights, outdoor adventures, and exciting new friends waiting for your kiddo at summer camp! Mark your calendars and start thinking about what summer break will look like.

Learn about how these summer camps can prepare children for career success on pg. 24.

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Camp to Career:

Preparing Children for Success

BY AMANDA MILLER

24 COLORADO PARENT MARCH 2024

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” It’s the infamous question we have all been asked or even asked someone else at some point. Children, however, are usually the group who are on the receiving end of this question the most, and their recurring answers include teachers, doctors, engineers, actors or singers, gamers, or even influencers. While some careers don’t provide a how-to on successfully landing the job, there are routes that can be taken to help children still pursue their passions.

Attending a summer camp focused on a child’s chosen career interest provides an opportunity for the child to not only explore their passion but also help them work toward turning their camp experience into a career. Many hiring managers or casting directors are often looking for previous experience, and by attending these careerfocused camps, children are able to gain that experience at an early age.

Camps such as Lighthouse Summer Writing Camps help those children prepare and practice their writing skills with awardwinning authors, providing writing time and interactive games.

Alexa Culshaw of Lighthouse Writers Workshop, shares, “We have many campers who want to be novelists or the next big literary figure. However, no matter what career your teen or kiddo ends up in, writing is an essential tool for effective communication and will be valuable in every aspect of their life. We have a wide array of workshop topics covering genres like fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, songwriting, and journalism. This exposure allows young writers to discover their strengths and develop their unique voice, which is important for a career as a writer.”

No matter the chosen avenue, campers are able to get a jumpstart on the career of their choice, among other benefits.

Choosing a Pathway

Gaining the Experience

When it comes to pursuing a career, half of the children know what pathway they want to take while others are still undecided. By attending a career-focused camp, they are able to pursue a variety of interests to help them narrow down their future choices.

One career many look into is writing.

Children who are going into their chosen careers with experience under their belts are already standing out from the crowd.

Career-focused camps help these children gain this experience early on, and they can keep returning each summer to fine-tune their skills or choose a different route to

explore, all while networking with those who are already in the field.

Campers looking into Colorado College’s Summer Pre-College Program are supported by faculty members in those careers who want to see them succeed. These programs include business management, film and media, astronomy, and news writing, all offering a chance to immerse themselves in the field of their choosing.

Some camps will even take field trips, allowing campers to see everything in action so they can see what it’s like to perform the chosen career.

Learning and Growing

While these particular camps are unique in providing a starting point for a career, they also provide many of the basic skills seen in traditional camps, including team building, problem-solving, communication, and leadership.

Attending a career-focused camp catapults children into the career of their choice, providing them with a unique–and fun–opportunity to explore their interests and get an early start at landing the job of their dreams.

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 25

How Do I Still Love Backpacking?

BY AUSTRIA COHN PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

B

eing a seasoned hiker, camper, and backpacker, I’ve begun to wonder why I love these outdoor activities so much. Just like anything, starting an activity as a beginner, you’re almost certain to run into a couple of hiccups. To be completely transparent, I’ve had my fair share of adventures gone wrong. So the question begs: How do I still love backpacking?

For example, on one adventure, we didn’t pack enough food and had to ration along the Pacific Coast Trail in Washington State. We were never in imminent danger of starving, but, to say the least, everyone was hangry. During another backpacking expedition, we got stuck in the rain, shivering through the entire night because

26 COLORADO PARENT MARCH 2024

we couldn’t get a fire started.

And I’ll never forget the adventure that went so wrong we have named it “Spider Canyon.” There were two major mistakes made on this outing.

1) We decided to take a “shortcut.” Every time my backpacking group finds themselves tired and wanting to cut the trip in half by taking a shortcut, it seems to never work out in our favor. On the infamous “Spider Canyon” trip, we got lost and ended up far away from where we were supposed to be.

2) We bushwhacked through a canyon. By going off the trail, we encountered fallen tree after fallen tree that we had to climb over.

After hours of going through the debris, our arms and legs were cut up. And we found

ourselves consistently walking face-first into spider webs: hence Spider Canyon. We quickly began wielding sticks in front of us to break up the invisible webs.

With all of these adventures that went wrong at some point, I continue to find myself with the heavy pack on my back, hiking down the trail on yet another adventure. But I’ve found the answer to my question.

1. The Disconnect & Reconnect From the moment we wake up in the morning to the time we are lying in bed trying to fall asleep, worries, thoughts, and feelings are constantly troubleshooting in our brains. Whether it’s work-related, social

ponders, or just stuff we can’t seem to let go of, our life is filled with thoughts.

The times I’m on the trail, I disconnect from these common worries. I don’t have my phone in my pocket receiving constant stimuli, nor does my mind wander when I’m lying awake at night because the rock I’m lying on is a much bigger problem than the surface-level concerns.

I find myself disconnecting from the dayto-day world, and instead, I am reconnecting with nature and my fellow backpackers (who are always family members). The discussions around the warm fire dive into abstract thoughts and ideas rather than minuscule details and problems.

2. Somehow, It’s Always Michelin Quality A tradition when we backpack is to bring a packet of powdered mashed potatoes because they are lightweight. I always thought these mashed potatoes were better than any I’ve had at Thanksgiving or Christmas.

After a backpacking trip, I headed to King Soopers, grabbed a couple of packs of those powdered Michelin-quality potatoes, and cooked them for dinner. I soon realized that these potatoes are actually terrible. There is no way they are better than Grandma’s homemade ones at Thanksgiving.

I’ve realized what makes these potatoes so delicious. It’s a mixture of a long day of hiking, sitting on the dirt around a warm fire, scooping them out of a plastic bowl with a plastic spoon, and being surrounded by family.

3. Strengthening My Mind Through the Tears I’d already stated I’ll be completely transparent, so it’s important to mention that there are still tears on some adventures.

The last fourteener I went on, there were false summits one after another, and if it weren’t for my family, I would’ve turned around. Thinking you’ve made it to the top and realizing you’re nowhere close to the summit is a heart-shattering experience.

On backpacking trips, I run into the same frustrating and polluting thought – I can’t do this. When I’m tired, hungry, and questioning why I continue to sign up for the Family Backpacking trip, there are usually some angry tears that fall.

But after every adventure, no matter how many surprising and unplanned events take place, I’ve realized that these experiences build resilience. Each trip, even when I get upset and ready to quit, strengthens my mind. When I start feeling defeated during an excursion, I always think of the saying: Your

Body is Stronger than Your Mind.

The Backfiring Tradition As I write this tradition, it makes me laugh that two of the reasons I love backpacking is because of the food. The tradition – that has backfired in the past – happens right when we get off the mountain. We always go to the closest Mexican restaurant for chips and salsa and smothered burritos. This is where we turn the hard times into funny stories that we can’t stop laughing about. This is when we take notes for things we should do differently. This is when we get to pat ourselves on the back and say: We did it.

No matter how many times my family gets caught in the rain, or we run out of food, or we make the decision to bushwack, and it comes back to bite us, I will continue to love these adventures. No matter how many angry tears I get because I signed up for yet another expedition that was difficult physically and mentally, I’ll continue to put my pack on my back, strap on my boots, and do it. Because no matter how many hiccups we might run into, it will never outweigh the positive experiences and strengths that come out of the journey.

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 27

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.COM

28 COLORADO PARENT MARCH 2024

Is Daylight Saving Still a Thing?

BY AUSTRIA COHN PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

As we gear up to twirl our clocks forward on March 10, the age-old debate resurfaces: Is Daylight Savings Time still a thing? The most common groan echoing through households is a timeless complaint: “Why do I have to go to bed when the sun is still up?”

Before jumping into the Sleepy Skeptics’ and the Sunshine Supporters’ perspectives, it’s important to know where Daylight Savings (DST) came from.

I

t’s Not About the Farmers?

Let’s tackle the kiddos’ burning question: Why exactly do we have DST? A common tale spun through the generations was that we have DST to help the farmers with their harvest.

But wait, hold the hay bales! History.com states this isn’t true because “farmers have long been opposed to springing forward and falling back, since it throws off their usual harvesting schedule.”

So, if not for the farmers, why the fuss about “Springing Forward” and “Falling Back?” DST focuses on energy saving and squeezing the most out of our natural daylight. The idea is to have more useful daylight when people are actually awake and out and about, potentially reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating.

The Denver Debate

Switching gears to 2022, the General Assembly in Colorado passed legislation aiming to keep Colorado’s clocks in the sunny embrace of DST all year round.

Governor Jared Polis even signed off on the movement.

Yet, this can only go into action once the federal law allows states to remain on this time. In March of 2022, the U.S. Senate passed a bill that would grant states the ability to stay in DST year-round. However, the House seems to be taking its time deciding whether or not to approve this notion.

The Sleepy Skeptics

One of the arguments against a year-round DST is that having more daylight promotes safety and health. When there is light outside during common commuting hours,

it could lead to fewer car accidents and pedestrian-related accidents because people can see better.

Moreover, economists Jennifer Doleac and Nicholas Sanders found that “DST lowers robbery rates by 7%, with the largest result occurring during the hours most affected by the shift in daylight.”

It’s argued that having an extra hour of sunlight makes the streets safer for joggers, pet owners walking their dogs after work, and children playing outside. And, the extra hour gives way to more outdoor activities and is better for the economy because consumers have more time to shop and spend money.

Finally, and one of the most common arguments, is that it could mess with our internal clock (circadian rhythm), causing a circadian calamity. The circadian rhythm is our body’s natural clock that regulates when we feel alert and sleepy by responding to light changes in our environment.

“Many regions of the world already follow the wrong time during standard time, and circadian misalignment would be amplified by moving to permanent daylight saving time,” explains the National Institute of Health. “Standard time better aligns with our circadian clock, thus providing a more natural light cycle that minimizes circadian misalignment.”

The Sunshine Supporters

On the other hand, the Sunshine Supporters argue that changing the clock every year can have negative health consequences. Sleep Education argues that the “annual change from standard time to daylight savings time is associated with increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.”

Regarding quality sleep, it’s argued that the one-hour time shift during DST disrupts the circadian rhythm because there is less light in the morning but more at night. This can cause chronic sleep loss and potential health implications.

“The transition between DST and Standard Time has darker morning and more evening light. This can essentially ‘delay’ your sleep-wake cycle, making you feel tired in the morning and alert in the evening,” states the Sleep Foundation.

Furthermore, in 2017, a study discovered an 11 percent rise in depressive episodes when transitioning from daylight saving to standard time.

Another argument against changing the clocks twice a year is that it drops productivity. “Sleepy Monday,” the day after the clock change, tends to be the most sleep-deprived day of the year because the sleep schedules have changed.

With the health effects and lack of productivity, the Lost-Hour Economic Index reveals that nationally, the shift during DST resulted in a cost of more than $434 million.

“To figure out these numbers, we looked at how the time change can lead to an increase in heart attacks, workplace injuries in the mining and construction sectors, and increased cyberloafing in offices,” explains the Lost-Hour Economic Index.

Time-Warp Wrap-Up

All in all, there are strong arguments to keep changing the clocks twice a year and reasons why we shouldn’t. But now that we’ve stopped blaming the farmers for the time change, are you a Sleepy Skeptic or a Sunshine Supporter?

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happenings Our Picks

MARCH

1

Baby Animals Art Workshop

Little artists (ages 6-12) are invited to create acrylic baby animal-themed masterpieces. $15. March 2. Majestic View Nature Center, Arvada. majesticviewnaturecenter.arvada.org

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 31

happenings Our Picks

2

Natural Art Explorers and Creators Exploration Day Girl Scout Juniors and Brownies will explore the beauty of nature. Registration is required. $12. March 2. Denver Botanic Gardens. botanicgardens.org

3

Breakfast Fly-In

Join the monthly flyins that feature planes, pilots, and a delicious breakfast. March 2.

Wings Over the Rockies Exploration of Flight, Centennial. wingsmuseum.org

4

College Application Prep & Summer Planning

Is your kiddo thinking about college?

Teens and parents will get tips from experts, learn about internships and summer experiences, and more. March 3.

Lafayette Public Library. lafayetteco.gov

HEADS UP!

5

Jurassic Quest

The all-ages dinosaur adventure is one the family won’t want to miss. March 8-10. Colorado Convention Center, Denver. denverconvention.com

Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information and check with locations about individual COVID rules.

32 COLORADO PARENT MARCH 2024

happenings Our Picks

8

6

Mom and Me My Trolls Craft Night

7

Cirque Du Soleil CRYSTAL

Explore the world of Trolls through engaging activities.

March 12. Girl Scout DreamLab, Denver. eventbrite.com

Don’t miss CRYSTAL. March 1317. Ball Arena, Denver. cirquedusoleil.com

10

Shrek the Musical

Step into the enchanting world of Shrek, where the tale of an unlikely hero unfolds on stage in a hilarious musical adventure that promises to be a treat for the entire family.

This classic story, derived from the beloved DreamWorks animated film, brings your favorite ogre back to life, accompanied by a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess.

Denver March Powwow

The annual celebration honors the heritage of America’s indigenous people, and the event will be filled with singing, dancing, storytelling, food, art, and more. March 15-17.

Denver Coliseum. denvermarchpowwow.org

While delivering laughs and memorable characters, the narrative imparts important messages about self-acceptance, friendship, and the true meaning of love. As the characters navigate through life-changing adventures, audiences of all ages will be captivated by the heartwarming story that highlights the beauty of staying true to oneself.

Watch the musical March 14-17 at the Buell Theatre. There are various times to choose from, and tickets range from $35-110.

Denver Center for the Performing Arts. denvercenter.org

9

St. Patrick’s Day 5K Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style by donning your best Irish costume, lacing up your running shoes, and joining the 5K with friends and family.

March 16. Town Center South, Highlands Ranch. hrcaonline.org

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 33

happenings March

4 Monday

Masked Monday 9am-5pm In support of community members who are immunocompromised or prefer to wear masks, ages three and up will be required to wear masks at the museum. Regular admission rates apply, and no reservations are required. WOW! Children’s Museum, Lafayette. wowchildrensmuseum.org Library for All: Board Games and More 1-2:30pm This library program offers a space for adults with developmental disabilities and their care partners to play new board games, socialize, and color. Koelbel Library, Centennial. arapahoelibraries. bibliocommons.com

Birding for Everyone, March 1. Photo by Majestic View Nature Center.

5 Tuesday

March

to do today

1 Friday

Birding for Everyone 8-9:30am Whether you’re new to birding or can spot any bird at just a glance, the Majestic View Nature Center invites everyone for a leisurely walk looking for birds.

This is a great time of year to see birds of prey. Adult tickets are $5, and the location varies, so register in advance to receive more information. Majestic View Nature Center, Arvada. majesticviewnaturecenter. arvada.org

VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Girls & Science 4-8pm Join the Girls & Science KickOff Event, where the whole family will meet mentors and participate in hands-on STEM activities. Girls will have a chance to meet females in the STEM field and ask questions, get inspired, and explore different career paths. Jump online to reserve a spot. Denver Museum of Nature & Science. dmns.org

2 Saturday

BHS Band Spring Arts & Crafts Fair 9am-3pm Support the Broomfield High School Band at the arts and crafts fair! There will be local food trucks and various student performances, and all the proceeds will benefit the school band programs. Broomfield High School. broomfieldeaglesbands.org Discovery Play 9:15-10:15am

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Discovery Play is a fantastic activity for kiddos. They will build STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) skills through hands-on fun during the self-paced program.

Arvada Library. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com Fairy Tale Ball: Aladdin 11am-12:30pm Interact with fantastic characters, listen to music, enjoy refreshments, and participate in crafts and activities. This is ideal for ages 4-10, but everyone is welcome. Castle Pines Library. douglascountylibraries. evanced.info

3 Sunday

Rescue Puppy Yoga 11am Enjoy a morning of yoga, take pictures, play with the puppies, and even take one home. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online. Pet Wants Arvada. eventbrite.com

Big & Lil’ Play Classes 2-3pm Classes for Bigs (caring adults) and Lils (awesome kiddos) provide a nurturing space for healthy child development, emphasizing physical, intellectual, social, and emotional skill building.

Kids Wonder, Centennial. kidswonder.net Hairspray 7:30pm Hairspray at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts is a dazzling musical extravaganza that brings the vibrancy of 1960s Baltimore to life. Buell Theatre, Denver. denvercenter.org

6 Wednesday

Volunteer Opportunity: Meal Prep Volunteers will prepare soup, cookies, and biscuits for families affected by the Marshall Fire to be distributed through various Louisville elementary schools.

Volunteers will also assist in tasks such as cleaning, chopping, packaging, and more. Boulder Jewish Community Center, jewishcolorado.org

happenings March LEGO Build & Play 3:30-4:30pm Calling all LEGO enthusiasts for an open-play and building session, allowing artists and engineers to unleash their creativity by crafting unique creations with provided LEGO bricks. All you need is your imagination. Columbine Library, Littleton. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com Indoor Climbing at Movement 5:30pm Everyone is welcome, regardless of skill level. Meet wonderful people and enjoy a fun workout.

Even if you’re not belay certified, you can still climb. The gym entry is $27 for non-Movement gym members. Movement, Golden. meetup.com

7 Thursday

Museum for a preschool-specific safety class where kiddos and their caregivers can engage in hands-on activities. Kiddos will learn concepts like “Crawl Low Under the Smoke” and “Safe for Play! Keep Away.”

Reservations are required and can be done online.

Denver Firefighters Museum. denverfightermuseum.org Friday Family Night Out 5-7pm Every Friday, Kids Wonder invites the entire family for an exciting night filled with fun, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime. Guests can pre-order pizza, and there are discounts on adult beverages. Reservations are available from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.; tickets are $15 for children and $3 for adults. Kids Wonder, Centennial. kidswonder.net

Dancing with the Stars: Live!

7:30pm Get ready to heat up your winter as Dancing with the Stars Live returns to the stage with dazzling and high-energy live production.

The all-new stage show features some of your favorite professional dancers from the hit television series. Tickets start at $50. Paramount Theatre, Denver. denver.org

9 Saturday

8 Friday

Historic Westminister Art District Art Walk Noon-5pm Embrace the warmth of

Squirt’s Fire Safety Class 9:30-11am Join the Denver Firefighters

Hike N Hang: Outdoor Adventure Meetup 10am-3pm Embark on weekly adventures with the Colorado Mountain Club, open to teen girls ages 13 and above. No prior experience is required. Explore activities like hiking, wilderness survival, rock climbing, and more. Colorado Mountain Club, Golden. cmc.org

a hometown atmosphere while exploring the Historic Westminster Art District. The Aar River Gallery, Westminster. westminsterchamber.biz

10 Sunday

Dungeons & Dragons for Teens 2pm Embark on a Dungeons and Dragons adventure at the library. Whether you’re new or seasoned, join fellow teens in crafting your destiny through the roll of the dice. Standley Lake Library, Arvada. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com Candlelight: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac 6:30pm Experience the enchantment of a candlelight concert featuring live performances of Fleetwood Mac’s music. Grab your tickets now for this unique musical event, open to anyone eight years or older (under 18 accompanied by an adult). Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver. feverup.com

11 Monday

Denver Jewish Film Festival 5:30-9pm Head to the Mizel Arts and Culture Center for the 28th Annual Denver Jewish Film Festival, running from March 9-17. Mizel Arts and Culture Center at the JCC, Denver. jccdenver.org Pee Wee Art - Puffy Paint Lamb 4:30-5:30pm Join Pee Wee Art, a hands-on art program for ages three to six, where young artists will delight in creating their own puffy paint to craft adorable lambs. Curtis Center for the Arts, Greenwood Village. evvnt.com

12 Tuesday

Girls & Science! Photo

by Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

Free Day at DAM Immerse yourself in art and onsite activities while enjoying free general admission.

Discover the vibrant world of creativity awaiting you at the museum. Denver Art Museum. denverartmuseum.org

Meals on Heels: A Shoe Fashion Show 5-7:30pm Join Meals on Heels, a fundraising event for Coal Creek Meals on Wheels featuring complimentary appetizers, live music, a silent auction, and more. Winners will be announced at the event and invited to walk the runway. Acreage by Stem Ciders, Lafayette. secure.qgiv.com

13 Wednesday

Crafternoons: Constellation Art 1:30-2:30pm Join the monthly sessions where you can delve into the culture and science of a craft while creating your own project.

This is a free program, and no registration is required.

Broomfield Community Center. compass.broomfield.org Open Mic Night 5:30-7:45pm Showcase your talents at the free Open Mic Night, where you can perform in a professionally hosted, live setting for a supportive audience of peers and community members (ages 15 and up).

Superior Community Center. superiorcommunitycenter.com

14 Thursday

Create Playdate 10am-Noon Participate in Create Playdate, an early childhood program at the Denver Art Museum designed for families with children aged 3-5 (siblings welcomed). Denver Art Museum. denver.momcollective.com Plant-Powered Potluck 6pm The gathering will take place at Hope Tank, an event space in the City Park West Neighborhood, providing an opportunity for attendees to connect and share their journeys toward plantforward living. Jump online to learn more. Hope Tank, Denver. meetup.com

15 Friday

MARCH 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 35

happenings M arch Weekly Storytime 5pm Head to Barnes & Noble for the weekly storytime that is suitable for all ages, with a special focus on the little ones. Enjoy the reading of two engaging stories, along with some activities.

Barnes & Noble, Westminster. stores.barnesandnoble.com Art After Hours 5-7pm Every third Friday, the museum will extend its hours until 7 p.m., inviting visitors to enjoy a post-work escape, a charming date night, or an opportunity to appreciate fine art and design.

Kirkland Museum, Denver. kirklandmuseum.org

16 Saturday

Goat Yoga Enjoy Saturday mornings with Goat Yoga, a perfect activity for all ages and skill levels.

There are three time frames to choose from: 10 a.m.11 a.m., noon-1 p.m., and 2 p.m.-3 p.m. The Orchard Town Center, Westminster. theorchardtowncenter.com Heart & Soul Climbing Competition 2024 7:30am-11:30pm Join the 11th Annual Heart & Soul Benefit Climbing Competition, a gathering for climbers of all levels dedicated to supporting cancer research. Tickets range from $49-70. Denver Boulder Club. eventbrite.com Fun at the Firehouse

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Image by Pixabay.

10am On every first or third Saturday of every month, experience fire-related stories and crafts.

After the craft session, enjoy a guided children’s museum tour, which is perfect for the whole family. Reservations are required.

Denver Firefighters Museum. denverfirefightersmuseum.org

17 Sunday

Sensory Friendly Playtime 1-3pm The Sensory Friendly Playtime is a dedicated museum program designed for children with autism spectrum or sensory processing disorders. WOW! Children’s Museum, Lafayette. wowchildrensmuseum.org Club Kidz at Bounce Empire 3-6pm Club Kidz is a lively kids’ dance party showcasing Colorado’s top kid DJs spinning a mix of EDM, pop, country, and more. Admission is $29.

Bounce Empire, Lafayette. bounceempire.com

18 Monday

Make cute cupcakes, March 27.

36 COLORADO PARENT MARCH 2024

Rainbow Animals: Family Day 1-2:30pm Arrive 15-20 minutes early to get settled before the class begins.

This is for children seven and up, and tickets range from $27-29.

Painting with a Twist, Denver.

paintingwithatwist.com

19 Tuesday

The Ugly Duckling 10-11am Secure your spot for the Colorado Symphony’s Mini Mùsica performance of The Ugly Duckling, a bilingual, interactive concert program. Attendees will receive a complimentary bilingual storybook at the door, making it a delightful and educational experience for all. Broomfield Auditorium. compass.broomfield.org

20 Wednesday

STEAM Book Club 5-6pm For 4th-6th graders, registration is required for this Kids Corner event. Pick up the month’s book in the children’s department, read it, and join the discussion and engage in fun activities.

Highlands Ranch Library. douglascountylibraries. evanced.info

happenings March

21 Thursday

Blacklight Yoga Flow 5:30-6:30pm Experience a flow-based yoga class set in the serene blacklight space in the heart of RiNo, suitable for all levels. The goal is that everyone leaves feeling rejuvenated and better than when they arrived. RiNo Yoga Social, Denver. meetup.com Sci-Fi and Fantasy Book Club 7pm Participate in the Sci-Fi Book Club every third Thursday, and walk-ins are always welcome.

Check the Barnes & Noble Events Bulletin Board for upcoming monthly book club titles.

Barnes & Noble, Littleton. barnesandnoble.com

22 Friday

Wizard of Oz 7:30pm Experience a musical retelling of the beloved classic movies

as you follow Dorothy down the yellow brick road and beyond in this production directed by Tim Kennedy. Ovation West Performing Arts, Evergreen. onstagecolorado.com

23 Saturday

Plum Creek Half Marathon, 5K & 10K 9am Embark on a scenic onelap course around Chatfield Reservoir in Chatfield State Park.

The run is on a concrete bike pack with a 2-mile stretch on the double trek. Participants can opt for a 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon.

Chatfield State Park. trailrunner.com

24 Sunday

Kids Paint Free 11am-1pm Bring the whole family to Painting with a Twist without breaking the bank. Every Saturday and Sunday morning,

Spotlight

kids ages 6-13 paint for free with the purchase of an adult seat.

Painting with a Twist, Denver. paintingwithatwist.com

25 Monday

Aerospace Discovery Family Workshop: Rivet like Rosie 11am-Noon Families with kiddos who are 2-12 are invited to participate in hands-on crafts and activities.

Wings & Space Museum, Denver. wingsmuseum.org

27 Wednesday

Youth Gaming Night 6-7:30pm Kids ages 10 to 17 are invited to play the Xbox and Wii games with friends at the library. Sam Gary Branch Library, Denver. denverlibrary.org Buttercream Succulent Cupcakes 6pm In this class, participants will

learn how to create an array of succulents and flowers using buttercream to decorate cupcakes. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased online. Cains Creative Cakes, Denver. meetup.com

29 Friday

Disney on Ice Presents: Mickey’s Search Party 7-9pm From March 28-31, bring the kiddos to see Mickey’s Search Party, which features loved characters like Moana, Coco, and Elsa. Denver Coliseum. disneyonice.com

30 Saturday

Sneaker Con Denver Noon-7pm Explore over 300 vendors that are offering rare collectibles and the latest streetwear. Colorado Convention Center, Denver. sneakercon.com

Image by Women’s Adventure Film Tour.

Women’s Adventure Film Tour Embark on a thrilling adventure with the Women’s Film Tour, a celebration of extraordinary women conquering the most extreme challenges. The inspiring journey showcases stories of courage, triumph, and personal growth.

The film tour not only stops in the U.S. but it travels to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. There are several opportunities to experience this unique tour. The first stop in Colorado is at the Majestic Theatre in Crested Butte on Friday, March 8. On Wednesday, March 20, the tour is at the Lyric in Fort Collins.

The tour comes to the Oriental

Theater in Denver on Wednesday, March 27. The final Colorado stop is at the Boulder Theater on Sunday, March 31. Times vary depending on the venue you choose, but all tickets are $15.

Women defy limits and inspire guests to find their personal Everest. This film tour is not just a cinematic experience; it’s a call to pursue your dreams. It also serves as a reminder that some of our greatest accomplishments often lie just beyond our comfort zones. So, mark your calendar, secure your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with empowerment and the joy of pushing boundaries. womensadventurefilmtour.com

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fresh mindset

fresh mindset My kids seem to know there is nothing they can’t talk with me about, and they still come to me as a trusted advisor for all sorts of young adult issues.

LORI HOLDEN is the mother of two young adults whom she adopted at birth. She is the author of Adoption Unfiltered and the blog LavenderLuz.com, an adoption education website.

Through her work, Lori continues to bring awareness to the complexity of adoption and shares insights that she wishes she had known when her children were young.

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