Kids VT, October 2012

FREE

OCT 2012 V OL.1 9 NO.9

Teen ✱ ROBOTICS: THE NEW VARSITY SPORT ✱ 7 GOOD VIDEO GAMES FOR GIRLS ✱ KITCHEN SCIENCE: CABBAGE-JUICE CHEMISTRY

Meet

Saturday, October 20th 10AM–4PM

Lady Bug Girl STORY TIMES on the hour

Enjoy Lady Bug Girl Activities FREE Buttered Noodles for all!

10% of book sales will benefit Children’s Literacy Foundation

64 Harvest Ln, Williston, VT 802.764.1810

A children’s department store Books • Toys • Clothes Shoes • Baby/Nursery Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-7, Sat 9:30-6, Sun 11-5 www.butterednoodles.com k4t-Skirack1012.indd 1

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There are tons of things to do to keep everyone in the family happy.

We love, love, love the Y!

Lizzy S. with Matt age 6 ¾ Y Family Member Shelburne

ONLY AT THE Y

What will you find at the Y? Join us! Take a tour, call us at 862-9622, or visit us online. gbymca.org

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The Y is the one place in the area where you can spend the whole entire day.

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Lesson

VOL.19 N O . 9

OCTOBER 2012

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DEPARTMENTS

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From the Kids VT Staff ............................................5 See and Say ......................................................................6 Birthday Club..................................................................50 Use Your Words: Essay ..........................................51 Photos: Harvest Festival.......................................45

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Teen Transformers............................................18

EAT. LEARN. PLAY

Vermont kids build ’bots — and character — in robotics competitions

The Kids Beat ..................................................................8 Ask Dr. First: Upper Respiratory Infections..10 Fit Families: Freestyle Center .........................11 The Librarian Likes ....................................................11 Seeing STARS: Addison County ....................12 The Because Project: Bill McKibben...........13 Out to Eat: Farmhouse Tap & Grill .............15 Go Ask Dad: Talking Politics ...............................16 The Art of Eyeing Visual Art .............................17

Lesson

Lesson

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CRAF T YOUR EDUCATION

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Individualized teacher support and official school transcripts through enrollment in our fully accredited school.

Lesson

Oak Meadow

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CALENDAR

Brattleboro, Vermont 802-251-7250 oakmeadow.com

Daily Listings ..................................................................28 Ongoing Events.............................................................29 Classes ..................................................................................30 Story Times ......................................................................32 Playgroups ........................................................................38

The Games Girls Play..................................22 Future video-game designers recommend good games for girls

HANDS-ON

Travis Miller, a member of the Essex robotics team, solders a piece of a robot for competition.

A Vermont Nanny & Elder Care Agency • Safe, loving, and professional in-home caregivers

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS colby@kidsvt.com cathy@kidsvt.com don@kidsvt.com kate@kidsvt.com corey@kidsvt.com kaitlin@kidsvt.com

ext. 77 ext. 74 ext. 71 ext. 73 ext. 76 ext. 72

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© 2012 Da Capo Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.

Photographers: Andy Duback, Caleb Kenna, Tom McNeill, Matthew Thorsen, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur Illustrators: Fish McGill, Rev. Diane Sullivan

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Published 11x per year.

Circulation: 25,000 at 400+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.

Contributing Writers: Kathryn Flagg, Bill McKibben, Cindy Morgan, Ken Picard, Ana Ruesink, Becky Tharp, Lindsay J. Westley

• Full-time, part-time, temp, event, and sitter services

KIDS VT

P.O. Box 1184 Burlington, VT 05402 802-985-5482 kidsvt.com

Editorial in Kids VT is for general informational purposes. Parents must use their own discretion for following the advice in any editorial piece. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute service/product endorsement. Kids VT is a proud member of the Parenting Media Association. Kids VT distribution is audited for accuracy.

Copy Editor Paula Routly Proofreaders Janice Obuchowski Marisa Keller Production Manager John James Lead Designer Brooke Bousquet Designers Celia Hazard Rev. Diane Sullivan Circulation Manager Steve Hadeka Digital Media Manager Tyler Machado Office Manager Cheryl Brownell

OCTOBER 2012

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9/26/12 3:03 PM

ON THE COVER

Project: Cabbage-Juice Chemistry ...............46 Habitat: Stage Crafting ...........................................47 Book Review ...................................................................48 Coloring Contest .........................................................49 Puzzle Page ......................................................................50

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Come join me for a marvelous musical adventure!

It will be spooktacular... hahahaha!

Presents

Halloween Family Concert:

“A Symphony of Whales”

A VSO String Quartet Family Halloween Concert

T

VSO String Quartet members are Sofia Hirsch and David Gusakov, violins; Hilary Hatch, viola; and Dieuwke Davydov, cello. Our special guest narrator is Melissa Ewell, a music teacher from Swanton. Enjoy this high-energy presentation, which includes a parade of costumes, and treats to take home afterwards!

Saturday & Sunday, October 20 & 21 •

McCarthy Arts Center at St. Michael’s College, Colchester, Saturday, October 20, 11 a.m.

•

Bellows Free Academy Performing Arts Center, St. Albans, October 20, 4 p.m. Funded

by St. Albans Society for the Performing Arts.

•

Middlebury College’s Mahaney Center for the Arts, Sunday, October 21, 2 p.m.

Ticket Prices

There is a $1 MIddlebury College service charge per ticket or family ticket.

$7 for adults • $5 for seniors & children $15 for families (up to 5 people)

For more information & ticket outlets visit vso.org

Sponsored by:

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his kid-friendly concert includes an introduction of the instruments and several seasonally spooky selections.

The highlight of the performance is a narration with music based on the Costume book, “A Symphony of Parade!

Whales,” by Steve Schuch.

It takes its inspiration from a true story about whales stranded in the Siberian Sea, and the heroic efforts by villagers and a Russian icebreaker to free them. Music plays a key role in the heartwarming rescue — and audience members get to participate in a crucial decision!

Locations & Times

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The

Tech Jamming When i Was a Kid, October meant one thing: Halloween. I loved picking out my costume and savored every piece of candy I collected.

These days, another event defines October for me: the annual Vermont Tech Jam, which is Friday and Saturday, October 26 and 27. I’ve helped plan this job fair and tech expo for the past five years.

I like working on it because it gives me a chance to meet a lot of seriously smart, innovative people who work for Vermont’s fastestgrowing companies — firms such as Dealer. com, MyWebGrocer, BioTek Instruments, MicroStrain and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters. More than 60 of them exhibit each year.

The Tech Jam is a particularly valuable opportunity for young people. Each year, we invite middle and high school teachers to bring their students; more than 500 teenagers from all across the state attended in 2011.

I’ve watched countless students approach exhibitors’ displays, their eyes wide. They say things like, “I had no idea there was something like this in Vermont.� I love that they’re learning to see their world in a new way.

The Tech Jam offers Kids VT an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering and math education, aka STEM, and the impact technology has on kids’ lives. This month, in “Teen Transformers,� (page 18) Megan James follows up with the Essex High School robotics club we wrote about in last year’s Tech Issue; in April, they qualified for the biggest youth robotics competition in the world. They’ll be competing closer

to home this spring, at the University of Vermont’s first-ever robotics tournament. “The Games Girls Play� (page 22) explores competition of a different kind: video games. We asked women in the Champlain College gamedesign and animation programs to recommend games that feature strong female characters.

Parents of younger kids should check out the “Project� (page 46), a preschool-level science experiment from the Montshire Museum called “cabbage-juice chemistry,� and Kids Beat (page 8), in which Kate Laddison notes that Childcare Resource is now offering “STEM-inars� on building math and science skills in infants.

There are plenty of nontechie stories, too.

Lindsay J. Westley visited a class that teaches art appreciation (“Art Of,� page 17), and asked local dads how they talk with their kids about politics, a subject that’s unavoidable in this election year (“Go Ask Dad,� page 16).

Kids VT writers also gave rave reviews to the Green Mountain Freestyle Center (“Fit Families,� page 11) and the Farmhouse Tap & Grill (“Out to Eat,� page 15).

Lastly, the Tech Jam isn’t the only event we’re organizing this month: On Saturday and Sunday, October 20 and 21, Kids VT and the Vermont Symphony Orchestra are teaming up to present a kid-friendly classical-music concert series, with performances in Colchester, St. Albans and Middlebury. We hope you’ll bring your young music lovers to see “A Symphony of Whales.� They can wear their Halloween costumes.

There could be candy, too.

Kids Club

A Garden Program for Little Sprouts

Pumpkins & Pirates Sat. Oct. 20 ¡ 10–11:00am Gardener's Supply - Williston Meet Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate. He is sure to put a smile on everyone's face. Search for pirates' buried treasure among the jack O lanterns in our nursery and if you choose, paint a pumpkin to take home.

Pre-registration is required.

For additional Kids Club information or to register for an event please call 658-2433.

!"

(802)  658-­�2433 Mon–Sat  8am–6pm;  Sun  10am–5pm

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— cathy Resmer executive editor KidsVT.com

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

october 2012

Bill McKibben (“Because Project�) is a scholar-in-residence at Middlebury College, and founder of 350.org, a grassroots group that combats climate change. He has written a dozen books about the environment, and is a frequent contributor to the New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic, Outside and Rolling Stone.

Kids VT

Amy VanderKooi (“Project�) is the science educator and program manager at the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich. She co-teaches the museum’s Young Scientist program, which fosters curiosity about the natural world in kids ages 4 to 6.

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ORTHODONTICS

D R S . P E T E R S O N , R YA N & E AT O N It’s almost time for our

HALLOWEEN CANDY BUY BACK! Bring us your candy and we will give YOU $1 for each pound of candy and donate $1 for each pound to Vermont Food Bank.

Visit our website for office hours.

Braces & Invisalign for Children & Adults Williston 878-5323

St. Albans 527-7100

www.champlainortho.net

Vermont’s Largest Kids Store is

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9/24/12 4:35 PM

Toys Games Books Arts & Crafts Shoes Clothing Furniture Carseats Strollers

Come visit a

real toy store

859-9130

10 Farrell Street, So. Burlington

KIDS VT

OCTOBER 2011

KIDSVT.COM

NOW OPEN!!!

Open Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5 &

6

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Have you, or would you, circumcise your son?

55 No

%

Buy back dates are November 1st-6th in our Williston and St. Albans offices.

Burlington 862-6721

Q:

The American Association of Pediatricians recently changed its circumcision policy, saying that the benefits outweigh the risks.

9/24/12 1:55 PM

45 Yes

%

Circumcision rates have been falling in the U.S. over the last few years, and it looks like Kids VT readers are part of the trend.

A few of them sounded off about this topic online.

The AAP is notoriously conservative and errs on the side of protecting the public from itself. If anyone has a link to credible research that shows benefits outweighing risks (using uncircumcised males as “control” participants in the study), I would love it to be posted. — Liz Curry, Burlington

Kids VT contributor Ken Picard writes about the decision to circumcise his own son in “Use Your Words” on page 51.

SEE AND SAY

BOOK REVIEW

Congratulations to these enthusiastic young critics who shared their reading recommendations with us. Each wins a set of three books from Kids VT and a $25 gift certificate from Crow Bookshop in Burlington. We loved reading about all the entrants’ literary adventures and have included some of our favorite excerpts below.

If you didn’t win, send in another submission.

This month’s form is on page 48.

The next deadline is Monday, October 15.

4 and under Ava Francis, 4, Ferrisburgh Dora’s Starry Christmas,

by Christine Ricci

“I liked when Glowy Star shined her light for Santa so he would see in the rainforest”

5 to 9 Helen Goodyear, 8, Huntington The Battle of the Labyrinth,

by Rick Riordan

“I loved this book because it was exhilarating and frightening. On the scary parts, my chest would burst with worry and excitement …”

10 and up Emma Barker, 10, Burlington Glory Be,

by Augusta Scattergood

“Even people who aren’t the nicest can be nice. They are people too, inside, not monsters.”

It’s clear that kids headed back to school last month: Colorists fi lled in our owls with math, reading and spelling lessons galore. Very wise.

HONORABLE MENTIONS COOL DOODLES “The Owl Who Decided to Draw at School” Max Reif, 4, Burlington SENSATIONAL SPARKLES Untitled Abigail Leighty, 6, East Montpelier BEST BULLETIN BOARD “Back to School!”

Sophie Lee, 9, Underhill LIFE-LIKE FEATHERS Untitled Sylvie Toothaker, 8, Burlington

4 and under

Clay Nicholson, 4 WILLISTON

“Hollan”

AWESOME ADDITIONS “Back to School Owl” Madelyn Ford, 7, South Burlington FIRST-EVER PENCIL SUBMISSION “Swirl” Hayleigh Aiken, 7, Essex COOL COWBOY HAT (FUN FIREWORKS, TOO!) “Mr. Owl Goes to School” Linden Stelma-Leonard, 8, Westfi eld HOT SPOT DOTS “Toot Toot” Mikayla Sealy Gosselin, 4, Essex FAVORITE FLOWER-POWERED SUBMISSION “60s Disco” Abbie Jones, 11, Fairfax WONDERFULLY WEIRD WATERCOLOR “The Nightmare” Bryan Ford, 10, South Burlington

5 to 8

Hazel Dority, 7 FAIRFIELD

“Book-Owl”

BEST BACKGROUNDS “School is Cool” Ra° Hill-Mosher, 10, Barre

TOP TITLES

“Aww Homework” Jasmine Crowe, 9, Shelburne “Owl Holding a Pencil With a Book” Tess Adams, 5, Essex Junction “Pizza Pie Owl With a Hat on and Ice Cream in His Hand” Tess Fontana, 6, South Burlington “Yes, ‘Owl’ Do My Homework Today” Sascha Taylor, 9, Westford “Whooo Goes to School” Zoe Taylor, 7, Westford “SSShhh! Mr. Owl is Talking” Brooke Brunton, 9, Williston

Anna May Brown, 10 MORRISVILLE

“Curly Hoo!”

KIDS VT

Find this month’s coloring contest on page 49.

The deadline for submissions is October 15.

9 to 12

OCTOBER 2012

Isabelle Collum, 11, Fairfax The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell,

by Chris Colfer

These winners get $25 from TD Bank.

KIDSVT.COM

“This book is great for people who have strong personalities … it shows how deep friendship can be and how strongly people will stand up for a friend of any age, color or culture.”

COLORING CONTEST

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THE

BEAT

B Y K AT E L A D D I S ON AN D KAT HRY N FLAG G

fabric • yarn • classes

EXHIBITS

Happy Holloween

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The Brothers Grimm compiled numerous classic children’s stories, including Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel. But many of their German folk tales are criticized as being too scary for kids. That fright factor fuels a new exhibit at Frog Hollow Gallery titled FROG HOLLOWEEN. Nine Vermont artists use a variety of media to breathe new life into the brothers’ cautionary tales. Items on exhibit include clay-sculpted ravens and metal-cut girls and wolves. The show is aimed at adults, but kids will enjoy it, too; the opening includes a violin and cello performance by brothers Zani and Gabo Lewis, ages 8 and 11. Director Rob Hunter says he hopes to create a book from the Frog Holloween images and corresponding stories to be sold as a fundraiser for the gallery’s Lessons Exploring Artist Process (LEAP) Frog program, which integrates art into the classroom. — K.L. FROG HOLLOWEEN: Opening event Friday, October 5, Frog Hollow Gallery, Burlington, 5-8 p.m. The exhibit runs through the month of October. Free. Info, 863-6458, froghollow.org.

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Students at Burlington’s Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes are getting down to work — outside the school building. The magnet elementary school recently unveiled an OUTDOOR CLASSROOM where students can experience hands-on learning in the natural world. It’s the first step in transforming the urban school grounds into a little oasis in the Old North End. The new, open-air veranda is fashioned from massive larch logs — rot resistant, incredibly durable and sustainably harvested in Vermont.

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MATTHEW THORSEN

EDUCATION

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Take it Outside

1/27/11 11:33 AM

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM: Located at the Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes, 123 North St., Burlington. Info, 864-8480, sa.bsdvt.org.

The result is part classroom, part playground, where kids can pile onto the benches for a lesson or scamper across benches-turned-balance-beams after school. The school’s biggest champions say that what might look like a cosmetic upgrade is, in fact, a sign of Barnes’ momentum and growing success. “This isn’t just a school. It’s a model of what change in a school can be,” says Chris Sharp, a Burlington High School art teacher who helped design and build the outdoor classroom. “This is the most vibrant change I’ve ever seen made in a school.” — K.F.

SPORTS

Radio Head At noon on Tuesdays, when most kids his age are sitting down at a school cafeteria table, 12-year-old Tucker Odum of Montpelier is settling into the booth at WGDR for his live, call-in sports show, TUCKER’S ALWAYS RIGHT. An avid sports fan, the seventh grader learned about the weekly gig at the community-based station from someone who knows his dad, John.

He’s homeschooled, so the midday TUCKER’S ALWAYS RIGHT: Airs Tuesdays at noon on WGDRslot wasn’t a problem. After trainWGDH, 91.1 FM and 91.7 FM. ing to run the soundboard and passing the required test, Odum began broadcasting last winter. During one recent show he bantered with his dad, talked with callers about replacement NFL refs and shared his thoughts on the Red Sox outfield: Trade Daniel Nava, keep Will Middlebrooks. During the hourlong broadcast, he touched on most of the big sporting news of the week, but it was clear that baseball is his favorite pastime. His pick to win the World Series? The Cincinnati Reds. Stay tuned. — K.L.

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EDUCATION

BOOKS

Chittenden County childcare providers seeking to nurture kids’ curiosity about the natural world now have access to some new tools to help them. Last spring, IBM awarded a $10,000 grant to the nonprofit CHILD CARE RESOURCE, which used the funds to purchase magnifyCHILD CARE RESOURCE: Toy Van ing glasses, light tables, visits are available for Chittenden scales, magnet blocks, County childcare staff. Fall snowshoes and other workshops are open to parents, exploratory playthings. teachers and providers from Starting this summer, Chittenden County and beyond, CCR began loaning the as space allows. Info, 863-3367, new materials to childchildcareresource.org. care providers, using its Toy Van service to make deliveries. CCR also gives recipients tips on using the items to encourage science, technology, engineering and math education, aka STEM. In addition to bulking up CCR’s learning-materials lending library, the grant money is also funding a series of public “STEM-inars� at the CCR offices, such as “So Easy a Baby Can Do It,� which focuses on math and science skills for infants. — K.L.

Instruction is Always Available Want to find out what Vicki Hoefle’s Parenting on Track program is all about without signing up for her six-week class? Read her new book instead. In DUCT 9/24/12 3:16 PM TAPE PARENTING: A LESS IS MORE APPROACH TO k8v-beadscrazy1012.indd 1 RAISING RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE & in the classroom, RESILIENT KIDS, the East Middlebury resident library, or community hall explains her approach based on the parenting philosophy of Alfred Adler.

Does our tiger-mothering, helicopter-parenting, baby-wearing society need another advice book? Well, maybe this one. Hoefle wants parents to use the duct tape of the title to zip their lips and stop nagging their offspring. She argues that kids want to be self-sufficient and don’t really need someone to pick up their socks, pack their lunches or wake them up in time for school. Hoefle’s new FREE Online Curricula tome whittles her 20 years of teaching experience down for Educators & Homeschoolers: to five chapters focused on what she sees as parents’ www.lcmm.org biggest stumbling blocks. Then, section two introduces some solutions. If her funny, familiar anecdotes about t 0O 8BUFS &DPMPHZ messy rooms resonate, you might want to take one of her t 8BS PG t "NFSJDBO 3FWPMVUJPO classes after all. — K.L.

Small Scientists

Homework for Parents

We’ll Come to You! Educational Outreach

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OCTOBER 2012

COURTESY OF CHILD CARE RESOURCE

DUCT TAPE PARENTING: Bibliomotion, Inc., 224 pages, $19.95. Hoefle signs copies of the new book at three local venues this month: Tuesday, October 9, Flying Pig Bookstore Shelburne, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, October 23, Next Chapter Bookstore, Barre, 7 p.m.; Monday, October 29, Talent Skate Park, Burlington, 7 p.m. More info about Parenting on Track at parentingontrack.com.

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Why recycle your old computer? Well,

and best of all...

• it’s good for the earth.

Drop off ff your computer and its parts at one of our local donation centers including: 1080 Shelburne Road South Burlington 329 Harvest Lane Williston

goodwillnne.org

Are you thinking about starting or expanding your family?

9/26/12

IF YOU ARE A WOMAN:

Between the ages of 18 and 42 and plan to become pregnant in the next year

Never had a child before, or Have diabetes or hypertension, or Had preeclampsia, or Have a family history of hypertension or preeclampsia

Researchers at the University of Vermont would like to speak with you. This study will examine risk factors for preeclampsia, a disease of pregnancy.

Financial compensation of up to $375 is provided. We will provide you with ovulation detection kits to aid timing your conception.

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If you are interested please call 802-656-0309 for more information.

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Just a cold —or something worse?

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What are you waiting for?

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it’s free, it’s tax deductible, it’s easy,

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• • •

✱ ASK DR. FIRST

ALL CHILDREN GET colds and often pass them along to their parents and siblings. There are more than 200 different viruses that cause colds and upper respiratory infections, which is why we keep getting them throughout our lives.

This month, Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care, offers advice on how to prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season.

KIDS VT: How common are childhood upper respiratory infections?

LEWIS FIRST: Colds are the most common reason children miss school and why parents bring their children to the doctor. Most otherwise healthy children are going to average five to 10 colds a year in the first two years of life — and that number nearly doubles for kids exposed to secondhand smoke.

Colds require supportive care, not antibiotics, and will get better with time.

KVT: What are the most worrisome complications from colds?

LF: We worry about children 11:47 AM who are so congested that they’re having trouble breathing or can’t stay adequately hydrated. Because infants and toddlers have smaller airways, they tend to be most inconvenienced by congestion.

But mucus helps keep the germs out and is part of the healing process. Keep kids’ noses as open and moist as possible and their bodies adequately hydrated, and they’ll get through it in three to five days.

KVT: Are there risks to giving infants and toddlers over-the-counter cough and cold medications?

LF: Yes. These carry side effects including sedation, irritability and, most concerning, abnormal heart rhythms that in some cases can result in fatalities. Some of these medications say right on the package, “Not to be given to children under the age of 2.”

KVT: What do you recommend instead?

LF: Good ways to deal with a cold are adequate hydration, saltwater nose drops, a cool-mist humidifier and perhaps a little petroleum jelly on the soreness around the nose. Some acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used

6/28/11 10:09 AM

if they’re uncomfortable with a fever.

Saltwater nose drops can be purchased over the counter or made at home with eight ounces of water and a teaspoon of salt, but only use a few drops of that solution in an infant or child’s nose.

KVT: How do parents differentiate between a cold and the flu?

LF: The flu, or influenza, affects more parts of the body than just the nose and throat. It comes on more suddenly, so it’ll feel like you’ve hit a brick wall. You may get a headache and chills with a fever. Usually people with the flu feel a lot sicker. They ache more, have a dry cough and are much more fatigued. While most colds last a few days, the aftereffects of the flu can last weeks.

KVT: How can parents “diagnose” a cough?

LF: Different coughs can mean different things.

A barking cough may be associated with croup, or an inflammation of the airway, and may require the use of a steroid. A cough that occurs in cold, dry air, at night or with exercise may be asthma. A persistent cough that won’t stop may be whooping cough. A cough lasting more than a week with a fever as well may be associated with pneumonia. The sudden onset of a cough in an infant or toddler may be caused by a foreign body that went down the wrong pipe.

KVT: When should kids be seen by a doctor?

LF: If kids are having difficulty breathing, if they’re not urinating frequently or seem lethargic because they can’t hydrate, they should be seen. Also, if cold symptoms last more than a week or if they’re associated with pain in their chest, ears or sinuses. Sometimes a “super-infection,” or bacterial infection, settles in, which may warrant antibiotics.

Got questions for Dr. First?

Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.

KVT: What are the risks and benefits of the flu vaccine?

LF: The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all children and adults get the flu shot. The risks of getting the flu and how debilitating it can be far outweigh any risks of the vaccine itself, which is usually associated with a mild fever and some soreness around the injection site. Parents should talk to their health care provider about which type of flu shot is best for their child.

KVT: What is pertussis like?

LF: It can be a life-threatening illness, particularly in younger infants. In older children and adults, it may just present as a cough that doesn’t give up. It starts as a cold but lasts more than a week or two. Then it becomes a dry, persistent, machine-gun-like cough that prevents the child from taking a breath, so when she finally does, it sounds like a whoop — hence the name whooping cough. In younger children, it can lead to continuous coughing to the point where children can’t take a breath.

Children with pertussis have ended up in our intensive care unit, and some have died.

KVT: Your view on the vaccine?

LF: Some studies have shown that 80 to 90 percent of the people in the home of someone with pertussis will get the bacteria. The vaccine is at least 90 percent effective but doesn’t necessarily last into adulthood. In Vermont, we have seen an upsurge of life-threatening cases. We can’t prove cause and effect, but there’s certainly an association with the decline in parents who want their children immunized. California and Washington state have seen serious outbreaks and some fatalities. We don’t want that happening here.

EAT. LEARN. PLAY. ✱ FIT FAMILIES

BY B E CKY T HARP

Jumping for Joy MATTHEW THORSEN

Wylie Tharp

WHERE TO GO: Green Mountain Freestyle Center, 260 Avenue D, suite #30, Williston PRICES: $40 person for Jump Start session; $25 person for open session with a coach; $20 without a coach (cash or check only) WHAT YOU NEED: Comfy clothes AGES: GMFC accepts participants as young as 5 or 6 but unless your kid is particularly acrobatic, you might want to wait a year or two

INFO: 652-2455 or greenmountainfreestyle.com

Why kids (and adults) love it: With quirky

BOOK: The Witches by Roald Dahl

illustrations of bald, AGE RANGE: toeless witches, this 8 and up hilarious adventure keeps readers on the edges of their seats. It may be a bit too thrilling for some, but early chapter-book readers looking for a somewhat scary story this Halloween will fi ndThe Witches to be a real treat! Read aloud or independently, it o° ers a great blend of humor and adventure for frightful fun.

11

“The Librarian Likes” features a different librarian and book each month.

Got an idea for a future LL? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

KIDS VT

“Fit Families” is a monthly feature that offers easy and affordable ways to stay active.

Got an idea for a future FF? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

Corless’ summary: In this classic chapter book by the author of James and the Giant Peach, witches roam the world like ordinary people. A young boy’s grandmother tries to protect him by teaching him how to recognize witches. However, when the boy and his grandmother take what is meant to be a relaxing vacation, they fi nd themselves sharing a hotel with all of the witches of England as well as the Grand High Witch of the World.

LIBRARIAN: Though frightened, Caitlin the boy steps up Corless, to the challenge of assistant ridding the world librarian, of witches and Essex Free protecting children Library everywhere.

OCTOBER 2012

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Only participants are allowed into the gym — it’s a liability thing. You can stay behind in a waiting area and think of this as an opportunity for the kids to demonstrate their independence, or you can pay the fee, sign the waiver and take the class, too.

landing area. Then they moved on to the good stu° : fl ips.

Taking turns, each person ran along the approach track and sprang o° the launch board, landing in a pit of foam. My kids didn’t know how to do fl ips, but the class gave them some pointers.

The instructors teach each new skill by breaking down the elements of the move.

Students build confi dence by mastering tricks progressively. My 10-year-old, Kieran, was doing front fl ips into the foam pit after just a few tries. His younger brother Wylie, at just 6, didn’t quite get there, but he was happy to be jumping on bouncy surfaces without his mom yelling at him.

Once the kids mastered the basics and proved they had their safety skills down, they headed to the elevated trampoline area. This was the only part of the class I couldn’t observe directly from the waiting area reserved for nonparticipants.

Luckily, the camera mounted over the trampolines feeds live images to a fl at-screen TV, so I was able to watch without leaving my seat.

Jumping on the trampolines teaches kids safe ways to spin in the air and how to control their bounces. Once he got comfortable with the movement, Kieran even strapped on one of the inhouse snowboards to get the sensation of performing those pirouettes on the mountain.

I’m not really ready to see my babies fl ip through the air without a net to catch them, though. Until I am, they’ll have to keep practicing — and GMFC sure beats the living room.

KIDSVT.COM

IN MY HOUSE, anything with the slightest bounce is used as a trampoline. Couches, beds, cushions — my boys use all of the above for extra lift and a springy landing as they fl ing their bodies across the room. Yelling at them to stop has proven futile. Happily, there are places to go where they can leap vigorously and I can keep my cool. At Green Mountain Freestyle Center, jumping and fl ying through the air is not only allowed; it’s mandatory.

GMFC is an indoor training facility primarily for snowboarders, skiers and skateboarders to practice jumps and aerial tricks. It’s located inside Green Mountain Gymnastics in Williston.

Burton posters and continuously looping snowboarding videos projected on giant screens feature professionals getting huge air or carving down impossibly steep slopes.

In other words, the place has “cool” written all over it. For my two boys, it was a slice of heaven.

We visited GMFC on a Saturday evening for their Jump Start session. This is an hour-and-a-half mandatory introduction to the equipment, which includes warmup drills and safety skills. You have to complete this training before you can attend one of the “open tramp” or coached sessions.

Mandatory safety might not sound like much fun, but it is. The class started with participants leaping, rolling and running their way through an obstacle course made with gym mats and Hula-Hoops.

They learned to tuck their chins when rolling out of a fall and to be aware of their

✱ THE LIBRARIAN LIKES

✱ CHILDCARE

Seeing

BRISTOL Addison County Northeast Early Education Program

The grade on children’s programs in four Addison County towns VERMONT’S STEP AHEAD RECOGNITION SYSTEM (STARS) helps parents evaluate programs that care for their kids. Sponsored by the Child Development Division of the Vermont Department for Children and Families, STARS assigns star rankings to participating childcare, preschool and after-school programs.

Programs must apply to receive a ranking.

The STARS coordinators consider applicants’ qualifi cations and operating policies, then assign them one to fi ve stars. A single star means a program is new or examining its practices and working to improve

57 Mountain Street, 453-3227

them; a fi ve-star ranking signifi es that an applicant is established and outstanding in all areas.

Parents who meet the state’s income-eligibility guidelines may pay less for childcare if they enroll their children in programs with three, four or fi ve stars.

Each month, Kids VT publishes an excerpt of the list of STARS participants. This month’s issue features the listings from four Addison County towns; the Middlebury listings appeared in the September issue.

Find them online at kidsvt.com. And fi nd more information about STARS, a complete list of rankings and other childcare resources at dcf.vermont.gov/cdd/stars.

★★★★★ Briggs Day Care

233 South 116 Road, 453-5070

★★★ Bristol Family Center

16 Orchard Terrace, 453-5659

★★★★ Mountain View Home Child Care 186 Purinton Road, 453-5322

★★★ SHINING STAR Each month,

Sue Owen-Jankowski

Kids VT spotlights one four- or five-star program from the featured geographical area.

1000 South 116 Road, 453-4071

★★★

WALTHAM The Ark Preschool/ Kindergarten

862 Route 7, Waltham, 877-3393

★★★★

WHITING Whiting Community Preschool 87 South Main Street, 623-7991

★★★★★ Weeping Willow Child Care and Preschool

12 North Main Street, 623-6476 CALEB KENNA

Lisa Presson

12

KIDS VT

OCTOBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

Evergreen Preschool 30 South Water Street, Vergennes, 877-6702

★★★★ Type of program: Private, nonprofit preschool that follows the Addison Northwest Supervisory Union school-year calendar.

Year opened: 1982 Age range of children: Ages 3 to 5.

Next field trip: Art workshop at Studio V and Treasure Island at the Vergennes Opera House.

Favorite outdoor activity: This time of year, digging for treasures in the sand; in the winter, sledding.

Favorite rainy-day activity: Building rivers, ponds and dams with water that collects in the sand outside.

Favorite book: According to program director Lisa Presson: “We have a large collection of Eric Carle books that we read and on which we base portions of our curriculum.”

Most recent staff development activity: The Teaching Strategies Gold Assessment Training sponsored by the Vermont Department of Education.

★★★★ Kristina Anderson

163 Stickney Road, 623-6895

★

VERGENNES Evergreen Preschool

30 South Water Street, 877-6702

★★★★★ Addison Northwest Supervisory Union Early Education Program 43 East Street, 877-2867

★★★★★

EAT. LEARN. PLAY. VERMONT CHILDREN’S TRUST FOUNDATION PRESENTS THE

BECAUSE PROJECT

WITH SUPPORT FROM

I became a better writer

BECAUSE

The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation supports statewide prevention programs for children and families to help give all kids a fair chance at success.

of a demanding high school teacher.

The Because Project asks Vermonters to share their stories about people and experiences that have shaped their lives, especially during their formative years — stories that may inspire others to get involved. Because together we can all make a difference.

COURTESY OF NANCIE BATTAGLIA

F

or an awful lot of people who have figured out interesting paths in life, there seems to have been a teacher somewhere along the way who believed in them. I don’t mean “believed in them” in some sweet and sentimental way — I mean, believed that they were capable of more than they knew. For me, it was a high school history teacher named Ray Karras, who taught me at Lexington High School in Lexington, Mass.

He was nobody’s stereotype of the “favorite teacher,” easy on the grades and eager to banter with his young charges. (That was the social studies teacher down the hall, in bell-bottoms and a mustache, who later went to jail for selling drugs.) No, Mr. Karras treated us as if we were, or should be, young academics. He demanded papers that presented well laid-out arguments — long papers! If you asked him to write a college recommendation, he would — but only in a sealed envelope sent straight to the college, and it was well known that sometimes he told them to reject the applicant.

BILL MCKIBBEN, AUTHOR, EDUCATOR AND ENVIRONMENTALIST

Investing in a shared future...

We proudly support the events that bring our community together.

aD

en

er

KIDS VT

M

ng aki

er iff

g To e c

h et

Email them to fagan@vtchildrenstrust. org. Submissions should be 300 to 600 words long and respond to the prompt "I am/decided to/learned to _______ because of ______." Kids VT will feature one of these stories in each issue.

OCTOBER 2012

FOR A COMMON GOAL

Submit your stories for the Because Project!

KIDSVT.COM

WORKING TOGETHER

So: A compliment counted. I remember him telling me one day, “You’re a good writer.”

I was used to adults telling me this, but only because I was glib and knew a lot of words and hence was able to get away with a good deal.

When Mr. Karras said it, I actually believed it. Doubtless he gave me a B, but doubtless it was worth a good deal more than all the top grades I ever got.

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KidsVT.com OctOber 2012 Kids VT

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eat. Learn. PLay. Q oUT To EAT by c in dy m O rgan

Farmhouse Tap & Grill 160 bank street, burlington, 859-0888

My children agonized over the menu. Burger or mac and cheese? Kids’ mac and cheese or adult? Which did I think would be better? UN Security Council negotiations have been quicker and less complicated than placing our dinner order. In the end, they split the difference: one ordered a burger; the other opted for mac and cheese. They agreed to swap tastes.

My husband ordered the grass-fed Vermont beef burger, and I took a chance on the Farmhouse veggie burger. I have never ordered a veggie burger in my life, but the topping combination of kimchi, sharp cheddar cheese and pickled jalapenos sold it.

The adults sipped Hill Farmstead ales while the kids enjoyed Rookie’s Root Beer — both on tap, both delicious. All around us, kids colored with crayons and tantalizing food was delivered to nearby tables. We saw one order of onion rings that looked as big as stroller wheels. The passing plate smelled like heaven.

Our meals were beautiful to look at and even better to eat. My daughter almost swooned when she first tasted the macaroni and cheese. When she discovered the pot of housemade garlic aioli on our table, she grabbed a few french fries from her brother’s plate and started dipping. Across the

Across the table my son kept mumbling, “This meat is amazing.”

Leo, 3 and dave buffington

oUr bill for foUr: $97.54 Kid-friendly amenities: seven high chairs, crayons, kids menu with meals ranging from: $4.50 to $6.75 table my son kept mumbling, “This meat is amazing.” My husband mumbled in response, “Mmmm hmmmm.”

It may have been the quietest dinner in our family’s history.

The one bite of beef I managed to get was amazing, but it was nothing

matthew thOrsen

on A good nighT in my house, dinner hits the table at 6:30 p.m. But when we dine out as a family, we eat closer to 5 p.m. — senior-citizen hour.

We go early so we’re less likely to have to wait for a table with our hungry, impatient children. We find other diners at that hour either have kids, too — or some hearing loss.

You definitely want to arrive early at the Farmhouse Tap & Grill; on a weeknight, get there around 5:30, maybe 5:45. Any later and you can expect a lengthy wait in a narrow foyer with nary a seat in sight. We arrived to snag a table in the quiet dining room with a handful of families and a few customers enjoying drinks after work. If the weather had been nicer, we might have chosen a table on the front patio where the kids would have been freer to roam.

The Farmhouse menu is as family-friendly as any restaurant in downtown Burlington, full of comfort food — fried chicken, pulled pork, macaroni and cheese, and burgers in at least five varieties, including beef, turkey, pork, veggie and portabello. The emphasis is on locally sourced ingredients, which means your burger will cost $14, but the taste of high-quality, grass-fed beef from a local farm is worth it. The beer menu is a wonder, with more than 15 selections on tap, several of which are brewed in Vermont.

compared to the veggie burger. The patty is more like a soft, well-seasoned falafel than a soy product posing as meat. One perfect bite — kimchi, sharp cheddar, fresh buttery roll, wellseasoned patty, then a pop of pickled jalapeno — and I was in love. I find myself dreaming about this sandwich almost daily.

Sadly, my kids’ busy schedules assure I’ll be in this dream state for a while. K

“Out to Eat” is a monthly family-friendly restaurant review. Where should we eat next? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

KidsVT.com OctOber 2012 Kids VT

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How do you talk to your kids about politics?

Daughter, Sarah, 12; son, Asher, 9

My daughter and I sat down and watched Michelle Obama’s convention speech together, but that was less about politics than it was an opportunity for her to see a powerful woman give a very eloquent and poised speech.

More topics are likely to come up in the next few weeks.

Last night, my son wanted to know how our government worked. I explained about representation and checks and 11:59 AMbalances. Closer to the election we’ll have to discuss the electoral college — but honestly, I have trouble getting my college freshmen and sophomores to understand that!

My daughter recently wanted to know the difference between Democrats and Republicans. We have both in our family, so it’s important for us to stress that political differences are not a source of fundamental differences — we don’t build communities around political affiliations.

Inevitably, our biases will leak out in conversations with the kids, and that’s natural, but we also try to instill a more sophisticated understanding of both parties.

shay ToTTen, BUrLinGTon

commUnicaTions direcTor, cheLsea Green PUBLishinG, and former seVen days PoLiTicaL coLUmnisT

John charron, sheLBUrne Trade marKeTinG manaGer, Green moUnTain coffee roasTers

Sons Hayden, 5, and Charlie, 3 Since our kids are younger, their interest in politics is minimal. However, my cousin, T.J. Donovan, just ran for attorney general, and the kids were able to get involved in the campaign. We went to a lot of community parades and events where the kids would wear candidate T-shirts and hand out candy — they thought that was neat, but I also wanted them to understand why we were there. I tried to explain the basics of why we were making signs and stuff, as well as the bigger picture.

At first there was a little confusion, but I think they have a basic grasp of what’s happening. Had we not had a politician in the family, we still would have talked about the election at home, but we maybe wouldn’t have been as proactive.

We try to instill a sense of how much one person and one vote really does matter. We read a children’s book called My Mama Voted for Obama that shows someone going into a voting booth to vote for a person to be president and why that’s important, and that helped.

My oldest came with me when we went to the town clerk’s office to vote early — it wasn’t quite the same experience as going to the polls, and standing in a voting booth, but I think he did grasp the concept.

Yes, we talk politics in our home. I know, shocker. Generally, the kids ask us questions based on what they read, see or hear in the media. It happens over homework, during walks to and from school, randomly at the dinner table or when we’re just hanging out at home. Since both my partner and I take a regular interest in politics, we tend to talk about these things in front of them a lot, too.

We want our kids to maintain their natural curiosity and questioning attitude about life in general, and politics is no different.

If I did anything by intention, it was bringing the kids along on my job when I was covering politics. I would take them to rallies, political campaign events and the like and have them in a stroller or backpack. They’d just sit there and listen and questions would naturally come up. I didn’t shield them from the issues at hand. They naturally had questions about big things, like “Why are they marching?” and “What are those signs?” so we’d talk about why the demonstrators were doing what they were doing. I didn’t expect them to absorb everything, but I’d explain that the marches were all part of how people express their opinions and their constitutional freedoms.

monTPeLier ciTy cLerK and foUnder of LiBeraL PoLiTicaL BLoG Green moUnTain daiLy

Sons Tucker, 13, and Zane, 8

We don’t go out of our way to bring it up, but our household has been steeped in politics for decades now, so it often comes up organically. My wife and I really try to take time for any questions the boys might have, especially if our answers can help put current events in perspective for them. The political conversations that come up generally involve social issues, like discrimination around race and sexual orientation.

We invite them to political events and rallies, but we don’t force them to go. My oldest was a baby when the civil-unions law was passing, and I remember walking around the Statehouse, with him in a baby carrier covered in stickers.

Now that they’re older, we encourage them to judge the world according to the opinions they’ve formed themselves.

In an election year like this one, we talk about which candidates we like and why, and we try to use that as an opportunity to discuss the political spectrum from left to right.

The tricky part is explaining how we feel about candidates while also giving them room to make their own decisions.

“Go Ask Dad” is a monthly feature in which we ask fathers to answer a question. Got a question or a pop you’d like to hear from?

Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

16 k6v-OnionRiverKids1012.indd 1

John odUm, monTPeLier

— IntervIews compIled by lIndsay J. westley

Kids VT

october 2012

KidsVT.com

Sons Max, 16, and Phineas, 14; daughter, Zelda, 9

9/27/12 11:38 AM

eat. Learn. PLaY.

Q THe arT oF

Eyeing Visual Art

bY LI n ds aY J. west L eY

matthew thorsen

“my splaTTer painT is in the negative space, right?” asks Tess Everett, 7, studying her watercolor painting of an apple.

Her instructor, Ashley Veselis, assures her that it is, and the class of 8- to 10-yearolds returns to studying their paintings.

They’re learning how to look at art, one of the fundamental skills taught in the Junior Visual Arts class at the Shelburne Craft School.

With Veselis to guide the discussion, the kids talk about paint strokes, subject matter and white space.

“When you’re working with kids this age, the most important thing is to help them find a way of expressing themselves,” says Veselis. “The other important thing is to help them look at art and discuss it — no matter what the subject is.”

With Veselis to guide the discussion, the kids talk about paint strokes, subject matter and white space. They decide that the paint strokes on one apple give it motion, while the purplish color of another makes it look a little unsavory to eat. Veselis assures them that there’s no wrong interpretation. The same philosophy will apply throughout the rest of this six-week course that includes instruction in drawing, painting, collage and printmaking.

Tess Everett

This week, the theme is charcoal drawing and painting still lifes. Veselis has given the kids five apples to paint and draw.

The fruit both inspires and tempts them; they would clearly prefer to draw a halfeaten apple — or better yet, an apple core.

But before they can devour their subjects, Veselis explains how to draw the apple, which is not the perfectly round sphere the brain imagines it sees.

“Start at the stem, and imagine an ant marching around the side of the apple, and pretend that’s your charcoal,” she says, drawing a wide, bumpy circle on the surface of the paper. “Keep your eyes on the apple, and just let your charcoal feel its way across the paper.”

This experiment produces mixed results. Tess Everett and Eliza Brooks, 8, immediately start giggling over the worms

“The Art of” spotlights creative skills that enrich kids’ lives. Got a class or teacher to recommend? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

Flynn 2012-13

they’ve drawn emerging from the apple.

Loa Georgsdottir, 8, sits with her chin in her hands for a minute, studying her subject. At a nearby table, siblings Mason and Eula Palmer, ages 10 and 8, finish their first sketch quickly, then ask if they can free-draw.

Veselis, who also teaches Hand Building in Clay for ages 6 and up, explains that this is one of the challenges of teaching mixed visual art to a relatively young group: Attention spans are short.

“Freedom of expression is important in any form,” she says, “but it’s also important to get something out of each class. The best way to do that is to find projects that everyone is interested in.”

The class concludes with a still life of plastic grapes, a baseball, a goblet and some plastic flowers — which the budding artists approach with varying levels of intensity.

One girl paints with fierce concentration, while several of the others finish quickly and then begin eating the apples. At the end of the day, everyone goes home with a finished painting and, if Veselis has her way, a new view of something they thought they’d seen before. K

iF you go: all supplies are included when you sign up for Junior Visual arts at the shelburne craft school; be sure to have your child wear old clothing that can get paint or other craft materials on it. session two of Junior Visual arts begins on november 1. shelburne craft school, 64 harbor road, shelburne. Info, 985-3648.

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OCTOBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

Teen

MATTHEW THORSEN

Eli Danyow, Chad Holcom, Riley Wlbur and Ian Ballou

ost high schoolers are ready to bolt after the last class of the day.

What would make them stay voluntarily until janitors kicked them out around midnight, night after night?

Ask Riley Wilbur and Ian Ballou, both 15 and members of the Essex High School robotics club. Last year, Riley, Ian and their eight Essex teammates put in long hours after school every day building a ’bot, which had to be able to stack crates, pick up raquetballs and roll bowling balls, all while other robots jockeyed around it.

The group competes in tournaments organized by a New Hampshire-based nonprofi t called For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, which aims to inspire kids to become innovative, well-rounded leaders through mentor-based robotics programs. Each year, FIRST issues a challenge, and thousands of teams around the world design and build robots to complete it.

The Essex kids’ e° orts paid o° .

The team earned a spot at the FIRST world championship event, held each year in St. Louis, Missouri. This increasingly popular youth robotics competition doesn’t take place in some high school gym; the Essex team put their robot to the test in Edward Jones Dome, home stadium of the St. Louis Rams, packed with more than 100,000 cheering fans.

“It was amazing,” recalls Ian. If it sounds like an athletic event, well, it kind of is. “That’s the way FIRST is going,” says Doug Dickey, assistant dean of the University of Vermont’s College of Engineering and

skills that might someday score them a job.

FIRST is an international phenomenon, with a projected 306,000 students participating in competitions this academic year. Robotics fever hasn’t quite hit Vermont — but it’s about to. This February, the fi rst-ever FIRST Tech Challenge will be held at the University of Vermont, and at least six 10member teams from around the state plan to participate.

If you think engineering is for introverted brainiacs, search for videos from some of these FIRST competitions on YouTube. They’re not hard to fi nd.

The timed matches are surprisingly dramatic. So are the fans; some teams bring cheerleaders, rally fl ags and costumed mascots to cheer them on.

The action unfolds on Jumbotrons.

The big tournaments are like something you’d see on ESPN. Riley’s mom, Beth Wilbur, attended the Essex team’s qualifying competition in New Hampshire last year.

After listening to her son explain what they’d been working on, she thought she had an idea of what she would see. “But when you see it in real life, it’s so di° erent,” she says. There are obstacles, for one thing, including strategically placed crates — and other robots. “You don’t get how much the other robots on the fi eld interact

was smitten. When he returned to Vermont, he got UVM signed on as an a˝ liated partner with FIRST. Segway inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST in 1989. Dickey says Kamen felt strongly that kids with an interest in programming and robotics

Not everybody on the team will fit the same mold.

We will need writers, artists, painters, as well as engineers.

ALAIN BRIZARD

BY M E G A N J A M E S

19

The Vermont FIRST Tech Challenge Championship Tournament is Saturday, February 23, at the University of Vermont Davis Center.

Info, usfirst.org. Want to form a team and compete? See pages 26 & 27 to find out how.

KIDS VT

TEEN TRANSFORMERS P. 20 »

OCTOBER 2012

and interfere,” she says. “It’s chaos, complete chaos, on that fi eld.”

Dickey saw the Essex team compete in St. Louis. “Watching these kids socialize and show o° their skills, it was profoundly infectious,” he says.

Halfway into that competition, he

KIDSVT.COM

“no longer needed to be the nerds in the basement.” Their enthusiasm “should be glorifi ed, it should be celebrated,” says Dickey. This mission has struck a chord with companies and government agencies that hope to develop the country’s 21st-century workforce; in 2010, NASA awarded FIRST a $20 million grant.

There are four levels of FIRST competitions, from 6- to 9-year-olds solving real-world challenges with LEGOs to advanced high school students building complex, cuttingedge robots. Teams don’t have to be a˝ liated with a school; the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich has a LEGO League team (see sidebar), as do 4-H clubs, Boy Scouts and groups of homeschooled kids. But they must include 10 members and a mentor — “the incredibly hardworking, overqualifi ed people who are passionate about helping kids,” says Dickey.

FIRST teams also recruit local companies to sponsor them.

Last year, the Essex team got to use the facilities of Greensea Systems, a Richmondbased engineering fi rm that develops underwater, unmanned vehicles. The Greensea sta° helped them prepare to compete in St. Louis.

The Essex High School robotics team has been around for about a decade, thanks to veteran science teacher Joe Chase, who is on the

Vermont kids build ’bots— and character — in robotics competitions Mathematical Sciences. “It’s going to evolve into a varsity sport.” Like other varsity sports, robotics teaches kids invaluable lessons about teamwork, collaboration, and winning and losing with grace. But it also gives them practical technical and problem-solving

planning committee for the Vermont FIRST Tech Challenge Championship. His team has competed in FIRST competitions every year, though last year was the fi rst time they made it to the championship round.

According to Chase, teaching robotics in schools is still “very rare.”

But he also notes that what he and his kids do in robotics club isn’t that di° erent from what kids have been doing in traditional carpentry and mechanics classes for generations: building stu° . “Robotics is just a natural extension of that,” he says.

It’s an extension made possible by the incredibly high-tech tools that schools can now put in kids’ hands — Essex’s brand-new “fablab” is equipped with a 3-D printer, among other awe-inspiring machines.

“Before, the tools [one would use in robotics] were fairly inaccessible,” says Chase. These days, technology is “smaller, cheaper and modular, so you don’t have to make everything from scratch.”

And FIRST robotics competitions aren’t just about science and engineering, notes Saint Michael’s College physics professor Alain Brizard, also on the Tech Challenge planning committee. These teams are solving problems fi rst, building a robot second. “Not everybody on the team will fi t the same mold,” says Brizard. “We will need writers, artists, painters, as well as engineers, to put everything together. It’s a very exciting concept.”

Collaboration is key — not just within robotics teams, but across teams, too. Each match of a FIRST competition involves four to six different teams, and their various robots,

MAttHeW tHorSen

teen transformers contInued FroM P. 19

split into two “alliances,” competing against one another. “Your opponent one match could be your collaborator the next,” says Brizard. Which is why each team often includes a “scout,” whose job is to scope out the strengths and weaknesses of other teams in the competition.

“In engineering, it’s always, do you want to be fast or do you want to be strong?” says Kristin Winer, an Essex Junction-based engineer on the planning committee. “You can’t be everything to everybody. So, you kind of pick where your skill set is and where you think you’ll score the most points.”

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The Essex team put their robot to the test in the home stadium of the st. Louis Rams, packed with more than 100,000 cheering fans.

Teams want to score points and win, of course, but the competition, says Chase, is surprisingly civil. “You’ll never hear any booing at these competitions, because students marvel at other students’ accomplishments,” he says. And parents and coaches are forbidden from approaching judges or referees, so if kids are upset about something, they have to deal with it on their own.

“They have to go to the referee and say, ‘I didn’t agree with that, and this is why,’” says Winer. “It really does empower them.”

Last year, the Essex kids made it to the world championship not because of their robot’s performance, but because of their overall creativity and the eloquence with which they presented their strategy to judges at the qualifying competition in New Hampshire. “Our robot didn’t perform very well,” admits Ian Ballou. “But in our interview with the judges, they really liked how we worked together as a team.” That earned them FIRST’s top prize, the Inspire Award, given to

Joe chase and travis Miller

the team that best embodies the spirit of the competition.

They’re hoping to make it back this year, but even if they don’t, Ian and Riley appreciate the small wins, too. “Just seeing [the robot] work is awesome,” says Riley.

“If you have a success with building a robot,” adds Ian, “even if it’s just a small one, it feels really good.” K

Members of the essex High School robotics club will be at the Vermont tech Jam on october 26 and 27 at the champlain Mill in Winooski. they’ll talk about how to start a robotics club, and discuss their journey to the FIrSt world championships on Friday, october 26, at 10:30 a.m. School groups are welcome that day from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, club members will be selling refreshments from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to raise funds for their upcoming tournaments. rSVP at bit. ly/tech-jam-2012-field-trip-rSVP. Admission is free.

t’s never too early to encourage kids’ budding interest in robotics. At the Montshire Museum of Science, a team of 9- to 14-year-olds is building a robot out of LeGos. If all goes well, they’ll debut the creation in November at a regional FIrSt robotics competition at the thayer School of engineering at Dartmouth.

Aaron Lamperti, an exhibits technician at the museum, says he didn’t need to advertise to round up 10 area kids for the FIrSt LeGo League team he’s coaching. both of his daughters, 9 and 13, are on the team. After taking computer-programming classes at school, they’re familiar with animating characters with basic graphic programs, so switching to LeGo robots isn’t a stretch. Like most techsavvy kids these days, says Lamperti, “they’re primed to do it.”

Anticipating that his robotics club would attract mostly boys, Lamperti asked his daughters to recruit their girlfriends. Mission accomplished. “these girls are not at all saying, ‘that’s not for me; that’s a boy thing. they’re

toM McNeILL

The LEGo League

Zae eanet and Joshua Putnam

just sort of technically minded kids interested in building stuff.” the Montshire team is one of more than 20,000 teams participating in this year’s LeGo League around the world. each has the same intriguing challenge: research a technical problem that people encounter as they age, then design a LeGo robot that can accomplish small tasks related to that problem.

At the competition, they’ll be asked to give a presentation on their research and to solve a new problem on the spot, such as building a bridge out of toothpicks and marshmallows. “the judges will watch them to see how they communicate, how they solve problems,” says Lamperti.

As a dad, Lamperti says he’s noticed a cultural shift in how kids who geek out on computers and code are perceived by their peers — and how they perceive themselves.

“My older daughter considers herself to be a nerd,” he says. “that’s her thing, that’s her crowd. She loves to meet people who are into the things she’s into. that’s a big change.”

KidsVT.com october 2012 Kids VT

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Girls Play Future video-game designers recommend good games for girls

P

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arents and educators have been talking for years about the importance of exposing tween and teenage girls to strong female role models in books and movies —˜characters who are more than love interests or sidekicks waiting around for a male hero to save them.

But what about video games?

Nearly every electronic device is also a gaming platform, and virtually all girls play; a 2008 study from the Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project reported that 94 percent of girls ages 12 to 17 play video games. And that was before Angry Birds.

“What I found was even worse than I expected,” reports Hillary Reinsberg, associate editor of the online news organization BuzzFeed Shift, in a recent withering review of online games geared toward girls headlined, “Tween Girl Video Games: Let’s Go Shopping and Find Rich Boyfriends.”

Reinsberg spent a few days playing some of the most popular online games targeted at 8- to 12-year-old girls, such as Shopaholic, Beauty Resort and Fashion Icon. “Not only are the games pretty poorly designed and uncreative in their storylines,” she writes, “they also teach misguided values. Many of the games taught that romantic partners should be rich and buy you things; that shopping for pricey clothes is the way to get

ahead; and that stereotypically female jobs and activities, like working at a fashion magazine or baking, are the only options for girls.”

Not surprising, perhaps, since the video-game industry remains dominated by male programmers and designers who haven’t quite fi gured out how to create and market games for girls.

To fi nd some popular games that don’t reinforce negative female stereotypes, we turned to Champlain College, home to a growing undergraduate video-game program.

Women are defi nitely underrepresented there, too — they account for just 31 of the 346 students in the game-design, game programming, and game art and animation majors. But program director Amanda Crispel says those numbers are growing. In October, she’s headed to an all-girls scienceand math-focused event in New York to recruit more students.

Several of Champlain’s female gaming undergrads o˛ er a few of their favorite games — the ones appropriate for tween and teen girls, anyway. The students also suggest that parents research the games their kids are playing. The Entertainment Software Rating Board has rated most console and mobile games. Those ratings can be found at esrb.org or downloaded on your Windows Phone, Android or iPhone.

BY C AT H Y R E S M E R

FemaleFriendly Picks ESRB Ratings: E = Everyone over 10 E10+ = Everyone T = Teen

Portal

This single-player puzzler stars Chell, a girl trapped in a scientifi c testing facility. A computerized life form presents her with a series of challenges, which requires her to use her portal gun to move from room to room. The player opens holes in the walls through which Chell, and various objects, can teleport.

Samantha Tow, a senior in the game art and animation program, is a fan. She points out that the only time Chell’s face appears is in a mirror at the beginning of the game. For the rest of the game, the player looks out over the front of the gun. “The point of the game isn’t the girl herself; it’s the puzzles,” she says. “If no one pays attention to the mirror, you wouldn’t even know if it’s a girl or a boy.

It’s just you.”

Rating: T Available for: Mac OS X Microsoft Windows PlayStation 3 Xbox 360

Mirror’s Edge

In this single-player, action-adventure game, a young woman named Faith Connors must save her sister, Kate, who has been framed for murder. Using parkour running, climbing and leaping techniques, Faith navigates the streets and rooftops of their dystopian metropolis, evading enemies. “Faith is not an overly sexualized character that is just there as eye candy,” says Lena Wagner, a sophomore game art and animation major. “She’s a very real, strong woman and is one of the greatest heroines in games out there.”

Rating: T Available for: PlayStation 3 Windows PC Xbox 360

Legend of Zelda

This fantasy game series debuted in 1986, back when phones were attached to walls. The premise is simple: Link, the hero, must save Princess Zelda.

But Zelda is not just a pretty face; in some titles she can fi ght, too. InThe Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks, for example, Link and Zelda go into battle together. Wagner praises the series for its “beautiful stories” and “wonderful characters.” “The original game is still thought of as one of the greatest games of all time,” she says, “and quite a few women play a key role in the story.”

Rating: Some games E, E10+ and T Available for: Nintendo platforms

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The Games

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Kingdom Hearts

Kingdom Hearts is “the first game I really fell in love with,” says Erin Trzcinski, a game-programming senior from Rutland. Playing the game, from Disney Interactive Studios and Square Enix, feels a bit like being inside a Disney movie. Sora, the hero, must fight an enemy known as the Heartless while looking for his friends, Riku and Kairi. Also on the quest are Donald Duck and Goofy, as well as characters

Nearly every electronic device is now a gaming platform, and virtually all girls play. from the popular Final Fantasy series.

Madeleine Bialkin, a junior who’s minoring in game design, loves it, too.

“It’s the reason that I am a video-game developer,” she says. “It’s a game about the love of two characters and the balance of light and dark in your heart ...

The women are somewhat scantily clad, but I highly recommend it.”

Rating: Some games E, some E10+ Available for: Game Boy Advance Nintendo DS and 3DS mobile phones PlayStation 2, 3 and Portable

mario games

Rating: E Available for: Nintendo platforms

sonic Rush

This single- and two-player game introduces a female character to Sega’s Sonic the Hedgehog series: Blaze the Cat, so named because of her power to control fire. The evil Dr. Eggman has stolen Blaze’s seven emeralds, and she has to fight various baddies to get them back. Sonic is trying to get his emeralds back, too. Players can choose to embody either Sonic or Blaze. Says Wagner, “Blaze has her own story in the games, and I honestly prefer to play her over Sonic, the main character of the series.”

Rating: E Available for: Nintendo DS

The sims

Teens can buy their own home and furnish it however they please in this series of real-life simulation games, which includes titles such as The Sims: Superstar and The Sims: Livin’ Large. Players give their characters jobs, schedule meal times and manage their household finances — not terribly exciting for grown-ups, but good training for kids antsy to be out on their own. If players don’t take care of their Sims, they die. “Games in this franchise are easy to learn and very engaging,” says senior game art major Margaret van Dyke, “and you can make characters be male or female and wear whatever you want.”

Rating: T

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Q go ask dad is a monthly feature asking fathers to answer a question. Have a question idea? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com

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Kids VT

Learn more about the video-game program at Champlain College, and play some of the games students have designed, at the Vermont Tech Jam, Friday and Saturday, October 26 and 27, at the Champlain Mill in Winooski. Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, techjamvt.com.

Made with marinara or butter. $5 | add 2 meatballs for $1.5

octoBER 2012

Available for: GameCube Mac OS Microsoft Windows PlayStation 2 Xbox

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KidsVT.com

Though protagonists Mario and Luigi are male, the many Mario games — Super Mario Bros., Super Paper Mario, etc. — get high marks from most of the Champlain gamers. “Any Mario game is fun to play and is completely familyfriendly,” says Wagner. “Some games are great to play with friends, like the Mario Party series and the New Super Mario Bros. Wii, while others are great single-player games like the Super

Mario Galaxy series.” Wagner notes that Super Princess Peach, an older game for the Nintendo DS, gives the traditional Mario formula a twist: “Mario and Luigi are kidnapped instead, and Princess Peach must go out to save them.”

9/27/12 12:13 PM

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“This was one of the students' favorite field trips last year.”

“My 7th grade student is a big fan of tech and he thought this was a great chance to make connections for his future.”

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• Meet up with Vermont’s most dynamic and innovative companies • Bring your tech-savvy teens to check out gaming, app making and robotics demos • Learn about tech-related educational opportunities • Apply for a job or an internship

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OctOber 2012

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ROB TICS START A FIRST ROBOTICS TEAM FIRST = For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology "To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders."

Dean Kamen, Founder

FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES Junior FIRST® LEGO® League Jr.FLL (Grades K-2)

Focused on building students' interest in science and engineering, Jr.FLL is a hands-on program that captures young children's inherent curiosity and directs it toward discovering the possibilities of improving the world around them. Students work with LEGO elements and moving parts to build ideas and concepts and present them for review.

FIRST Lego League

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KIDS VT

OCTOBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

FLL (Grades 4-8)

Introduces younger students to real-world engineering challenges by building LEGO-based robots to complete tasks on a thematic playing surface. FLL teams, guided by their imaginations and adult coaches, discover exciting career possibilities and, through the process, learn to make positive contributions to society.

FIRST Tech Challenge FTC (Grades 7-12)

FTC is designed for those who want to compete head to head, using a sports model. Teams of up to 10 students are responsible for designing, building, and programming their robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams. Teams, including coaches, mentors and volunteers develop strategy and build robots based on sound engineering principles.

Awards are given for the competition as for well as for community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments.

FIRST Robotics Competition FRC (Grades 9-12)

"The Varsity Sport for the Mind," FRC combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules, limited resources and time limits, teams of 25 students or more are challenged to raise funds, design a team "brand," hone teamwork skills, and build and program robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. It’s as close to "real-world engineering" as a student can get. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team.

Teams in Vermont:

HOW TO START A TEAM: • Check usfirst.org for info on dates, times and finances • Get friends together and build excitement • Find an organization that can help with space, storage, sponsorship (school, 4H, scouting troupe, Grange, church) • Find engineering mentors

FTC: Brattleboro (Rockybalboto) East Montpelier (Robo Raiders) Essex Junction (Cyborg Gentleman Crabs) Hinesburg (RoboHawks) FRC: Randolph & Rutland

The Vermont FIRST FTC Championship Saturday, February 23 University of Vermont Davis Center To compete, or to volunteer as a mentor, visit usfirst.org or uvm. edu/~first/ or email first@uvm.edu KIDSVT.COM

Helping promote robotics & engineering education in our community:

OCTOBER 2012 KIDS VT

27

OCT

SPOTLIGHTS AND LISTINGS BY KATE LADDISON

28

KIDS VT

OCTOBER 2012 KIDSVT.COM

Street Treats Trick or treating in the daytime isn’t quite as spooky as going from house to house at night, but there are some real advantages to the annual COSTUME PARADE sponsored

by Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace: Temps are warmer; trick or treating storeto-store is safe and efficient; and your witches and wizards get to show off their dress-up duds in the daylight. Best of all, it’s the Saturday morning before Halloween.

CHURCH STREET TRICK-ORTREATING: Saturday, October 27, Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 10:30 a.m., parade at noon. Free. Info, 863-1648, churchstreetmarketplace.com.

Like Fletcher Allen Health Care on Facebook and get weekly updates from Dr. First!

COURTESY OF THE CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE

CALENDAR

Sponsored by:

OCT CALENDAR

2 TUESDAY

Arts

From Page to Stage: Young actors explore classic children’s books and bring the characters to life on stage. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, 3:45-5:45 p.m. $12. Info, 355-1461.

Comm unity

Polar Express Ticket Lottery: Families request up to fi ve tickets for a magical train ride from King Street to the North Pole. Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation, Burlington, Oct. 5, 8 a.m. $35; free for kids under 2. Info, 888-475-5437.

Education

Hunter Education: Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department sta° teach sessions used in obtaining a hunting license. Essex Middle School, 6-8 p.m. Free.

Info, 878-1342.

Food

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: Small ones with big appetites get a free kids meal or custom burrito. Ages birth-12. Boloco, Burlington, 4-8 p.m. Free. Info, 658-9771.

Health & Fitness

Family Archery: Parents and kids take aim at a new sport. No experience required. Preregister. Farrell Park, South Burlington, 5:45 p.m. $10 for South Burlington residents; $15 nonresidents. Info, 846-4108.

Library & Books

Craftacular Tuesdays: Kids get caught up in lowtech projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Creative Tuesdays: Crafters use their imagination and recycled materials. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories: Fall Leaves: Jump into the science and fun of foliage during this interactive program. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

3 WEDNESDAY

Arts

Art for Tots: Children create their own masterpieces using a wide range of materials in a relaxed yet adventurous atmosphere. Ages 18 months to 4 years. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10-11 a.m. $10 to drop-in. Info, 802 457-3500.

Readers Theatre Rehearsals: Book lovers prepare a play based on the Civil War drama Bull Run, rehearsing for a performance at Memorial Hall.

Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Info, 878-6956.

Breast-Feeding-Mom Support: New mothers get to know each other during this informative and informal session. Children welcome. Grace Church, Rutland, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 747-8665.

Polar Express Ticket Lottery: See October 2.

Social Thinking: Kids with nonverbal learning disabilities, Asperger’s syndrome and high-functioning autism develop their social skills. Call for times. Ages 6-17. Preregister. Maple Leaf Clinic, Wallingford. Info, 446-3577.

Food

Cookie Decorating: Budding bakers doll up treats with sprinkles, frosting, sugar and nuts. Panadero Bakery, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-8278.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: Basketball-loving high school students spend the afternoon dribbling, shooting and scoring. Preregister. St. Albans City Hall, 2:303:45 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Mom’s Matinee: Parents and their wee ones catch a fl ick with dimmed lights and baby-friendly volumes. Palace 9, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. $67.50; free for kids under 2. Info, 864-5610.

NOOK Kids APPtivity: Tots tap tablets, playing, creating and learning using store-provided NOOK devices and kid-friendly apps. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

Pollywog Drop-In Art: Tots get their art fi x with a variety of craft materials, from homemade play dough to colorful ribbons. Ages 6 months-5 years accompanied by adult. Burlington City Arts, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5-6 per child/parent pair. Info, 865-7166.

Preschool Music With Raphael: Little ones dance and sing to guitar tunes. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Richford PJ Story Time: Kids gather with friends for bedtime prep through stories, songs and crafts.

Ages birth-6. Arvin A. Library, Richford, 4-5 p.m.

Free. Info, 527-5426.

Youth Media Lab: Aspiring Spielbergs make movies and explore technology in this drop-in collaboration between the library and Middlebury Community Television. Grades 3 and up. Preregister. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Nature & Science

Kids Open Gymnastics: Tykes tumble and jump while adults connect with other families. Snacks provided. River Arts, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. $510. Info, 888-1261.

Programs for Preschoolers: Farm activities wow little learners with themed stories, hands-on activities and a special visit to the barn. Ages 3 and up.

Preregister. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 9-10:30 a.m. $3-5. Info, 457-4663.

Library & Books

4 THURSDAY

LEGO Afternoons: Youngsters create freely from big buckets of building blocks. Parents encouraged to send a snack; popcorn provided. Ages 6 and up. Lincoln Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.

May’s Music & Movement: Kiddos and their caregivers don their dancing shoes for a turn on the fl oor. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Arts

Art Explorers: A story, music and movement augment creation stations that include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture and printmaking activities. Children may be dropped o° or parents may stay. Ages 3-5. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 3-4:30 p.m. $10 drop-in. Info, 802 457-3500.

Baby & Maternity

Breast-Feeding Support Group: Lactating moms bring their babies and share stories, advice and company. Preregister. Family Birthing Center, Northwest Medical Center, St. Albans, 10 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 524-7970.

Chiropractic & Nutritional Support During Pregnancy: A local doctor discusses the nutritional and physiological changes brought about by maternity, as well as the benefi ts of chiropractic care. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 5:306:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-2569, ext.1.

La Leche League of Essex: Moms and little ones meet to discuss parenting and breastfeeding. Pregnant and planning moms are also welcome. First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, 7 p.m.

Free. Info, 383-8544.

Middlebury La Leche League: Breast-feeding moms and kids gather for fun and conversation.

Expectant mothers welcome, too. Junebug Mother and Child, Middlebury, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 382-1589.

Comm unity

Polar Express Ticket Lottery: See October 2.

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Ongoing Events BIRDS OF VERMONT MUSEUM

Info, 434-2167 The Delight of Decoys: Museumgoers view a showcase of carved birds. There’s one for every year the museum has been open.

ECHO LAKE AQUARIUM AND SCIENCE CENTER

Info, 864-1848 Race: Are We So Different?: Visitors explore an exhibit confronting the history, science and lived experience of race and racism in the United States. See how political, social and economic factors infl uenced the racial climate of our country and region.

FAIRBANKS MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM

Info, 748-2372

Info, 518-585-2821

SHELBURNE FARMS

Info, 985-8686

Fort Ticonderoga: This historic relic and site of bloody military battles for control of important trade routes boasts nearly 2000 acres of land to explore and constantly changing exhibits.

Shelburne Story Walk: Bookworms read pages posted along the trail to Lone Tree Hill. All ages.

NEW ENGLAND MAPLE MUSEUM

Art Activities at Shelburne Museum: Kids explore museum exhibits and regular art activities, including self-portraits and hands-on “Art on the Go” carts.

Info, 483-9414 Maple-Candy Making: Sugar lovers sample the fi nal product of the crystallization of Vermont sap.

Fall Celebration: Maple takes a new twist as museum exhibits turn into a colorful autumn array demonstrating the Vermont tradition of scaring o° “evil,” spirits.

SAM MAZZA’S FARM MARKET

Info, 655-3440

Sam Mazza’s Corn Maze: Get lost — or not — in this three-mile-long corn maze. Find all 12 maze stations and enter to win a grand-prize drawing.

All ages.

Info, 985-3346

Time Machines: A historical look at space travel, robots and rockets inspires visitors to consider the promises of science and how imaginations are captured by big ideas.

UNIVERSITY MALL

Info, 863-1066 Halloween Costume Recycling: Good-hearted ghouls and goblins drop o° new or used Halloween costumes and supplies at the customer service desk. Dress-up duds will be donated to area children in need.

VARIOUS LOCATIONS STATEWIDE Apples to iPods: Specially marked wooden apples are hiding in 19 of Vermont’s pick-your-own apple orchards across the state. Find one of these unique “iPod apples,” while out picking, and you’ll win an Apple iPod or iPad. VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE NATURE CENTER

Info, 359-5000 Through the Eyes of Raptors: Kids explore the natural world from the perspective of these e˝ cient predators. Bird programs cover the mechanics of fl ight, seasonal migration and conservation issues.

All ages.

Raptors Up Close: Little nature lovers discover the fascinating lives of birds in this exhibit featuring touchable artifacts and hands-on materials. Kids learn how birds are rehabilitated and the fundamentals of raptor training. All ages.

29

Submit your November events by October 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

SHELBURNE MUSEUM

Killington Hay Festival: A fi veweek festival celebrates Vermont’s harvest season with a collection of more than 30 giant hay animals on display throughout town. Other fun includes a scavenger hunt, photo contest, restaurant week and a 5K run/walk.

KIDS VT

Wildflower Table: This living exhibit refl ects the abundance and diversity of fl owers, grasses, berries, ferns and evergreens found in the Northeast Kingdom. Kids are introduced to more than 400 species displayed throughout the year, in both fruit and fl owering stages.

FORT TICONDEROGA

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OCTOBER 2012

Parent Playgroup: Caregivers share stories and dessert while crafting a toy to bring home to the kids. Adults only. South Burlington Community Library, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Afternoons With Farmer Fred: Plymouth’s Fred DePaul demonstrates historic farming activities such as sheep shearing and logging. He also loves to give wagon rides in good weather. Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, Plymouth, 1-5 p.m. $2-7.50; free for kids under 6. Info, 672-3773.

Movin’ & Groovin’ With Christine: Tots let loose to the rhythms of rock and world music. Ages 2-5.

Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 865-7216.

KIDSVT.COM

Comm unity

Education

oct calendar

Going the Distance in Disguise

courtesy oF onion riiver sports

4 thursday (Continued)

Sukkah Party: Families celebrate the Jewish festival with soup and a bounce house, crafts and live entertainment. All ages. Chabad Jewish Community Center, Burlington, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 658-7612.

Education

Hunter Education: See October 2.

Kids in the Kitchen: Deli Monte Cristo: Breakfast and lunch collide as kids learn to make this crossover sandwich featuring an egg-and-cream batter and a ham, turkey and cheese stuffing. All ages accompanied by an adult. Preregister. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

Health & Fitness

Hot Mama Workout: Kids are welcome, while moms squeeze in some fitness. City Hall Gymnasium, St. Albans, 9-10 a.m. $10, or free with preregistration. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

october 2012 kidsvt.com Kids VT

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Winooski Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment gives tumblers a chance to burn off some energy. Ages birth to 7. YMCA, Winooski, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-9622.

Library & Books

Food

Classes

Postnatal Yoga: Sore shoulders and backs feel some stretch, and abdominal muscles get a tone-up in a class designed for moms and their precrawling kids. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 1:30 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

Fairfax PJ Story Hour: Children don pajamas to listen to a story and make a craft before bedtime.

Ages birth-6. Fairfax Community Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Food for Thought: Teen volunteers chow down on pizza and work on library projects. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, first Thursday of every month, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Hand in Hand: This kid-initiated volunteer group creates “birthday boxes” for local food pantries.

School-age children. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Highgate Youth Advisory: Kids in grades 5 to 8

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

Champ’s Monster Trackers Camp: Schedule: October 19, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Aftercare available until 5 p.m. Cost: $55 ECHO members; $60 nonmembers. Location: ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center. Contact info: 864-1848, echovermont.org/camps.

Description: Have you ever seen Champ?

Bigfoot? First through fifth graders explore the world of hidden animals though science and myth at ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center during October’s in-service day. Participants will leave with their own monster claws/mask.

Beginner Piano Lessons: Schedule: Call for details. Cost: $25 for a half hour or $40 for a full hour. Contact info: Randal Pierce, 999-1594 or randal.pierce@gmail.com.

Description: Children will be able to learn piano on a Steinway Grand in a beautiful Victorian house in downtown Burlington.

Students can learn to read music, compose and improvise at the piano at a steady but flexible pace.

CVSC Learn to Skate Program: Schedule: Saturdays 9 a.m.-10 a.m., six-week sessions.

Session 1: September 15; Session 2: October 27. Cost/Description: Ages 3-adult, new and advanced skaters welcomed! Snow Plow Sam: $50 per session; Basic Eight, Hockey, Adult, and Free Skate: $90 per session. Location: Gutterson Field House, UVM. Contact info: cvsc_us@yahoo.com 309-0419 or visit champlainvalleyskatingclub.org .

The Parent Operative: Schedule: Six-week series with dates starting September 20, November 8 and January 10. Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $280. Location: 34 Patchen Road, South Burlington.

Contact info: Heather Lynch, MA, associatesinpsychotherapy.net, 658-4208. Description: The Parent Operative is a psychologist-facilitated support and educational group for parents and caregivers of all kinds. The objective is to create a supportive environment to reduce stress and increase confidence when parenting a spirited child.

Worried about the sugar your family’s destined to ingest this Halloween?

Burn off some extra calories in the Autumn Onion Costume Race.

Costume-clad runners dash through downtown Montpelier on a mostly flat, stroller-friendly 5K course that’s welcoming to runners of all ages and abilities. Onion River Sports events director Matt Williams says runner families often coordinate their outfits; Mom and Dad might go as farmers, while the kids dress as baby animals, for example. Prizes go to the best dressed, as well as the fastest runners, so break out your Speedy Gonzalez, Flash Gordon and Road Runner outfits.

Autumn Onion 5K Costume Race: Sunday, October 28, Onion River Sports, Montpelier, 8:30 a.m., race-day registration in the Onion River parking lot; race, 10 a.m., Montpelier. $15. Info, 229-9409, onionriver.com, runreg.com. plan projects with the Crossroads after-school program. Highgate Public Library, 3-4:45 p.m. Free.

Info, 868-3970.

Homeschoolers’ Book Group: Out-of-classroom learners gather for talks on a variety of books. Regular attendance required. Preregister. Ages 10-14. St. Albans Free Library, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

PJ Story Hour: Don your pajamas for tales, songs and a craft. Ages birth-6. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Read for the Record: Bookworms young and old attempt to break a world record by reading Ladybug Girl and the Bug Squad at home and in communities around the globe. Ages 3-7. More information at readfortherecord.com. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

Read for the Record: See above listing. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

Shelburne Magic Club: Illusionists practice card tricks and share their most successful sleights of hand. Grades 5-8. Pierson Library, Shelburne, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

5 FRIDAY

Arts

Family Clay Drop-In: Parents join kids for some work on the wheel. All ages. Burlington City Arts, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $5-6 includes one glazed/fired piece; $5 per additional piece. Info, 865-7166.

Itty Bitty Pumpkin Decorating: Kids pick a good gourd to decorate during this session of free play.

Ages 3-5 Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $25. Info, 316-1510.

Preschool Clay Drop-In: Fledgling potters craft cool stuff using the wheel or working by hand. Preschool ages. Burlington City Arts, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $6.

Info, 865-7166.

Community

Baked Beads Clearance Sale: Fashionistas browse jewelry, scarves, hair accessories and more at a sale under the tent on Route 100. A portion of the proceeds benefits Irene recovery efforts. Baked Beads, Waitsfield, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission. Info, 496-2440.

First Friday Family Dance: Supper kicks off a wholesome evening of live music and dancing. All ages. Worcester Town Hall, first Friday of every month, 5:30-10 p.m. $5-12. Info, 229-0173.

Polar Express Ticket Lottery: See October 2.

8 a.m.

Education

Foodways Fridays: Children and adults use heirloom vegetables in historic recipes prepared in the Billings farmhouse kitchen. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, $3-12; free for kids under 3 and for members. Info, 457-2355.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Burlington Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment provides active fun for kids and their parents.

Ages 7 and under. YMCA, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-8993.

Friday Games Night: Action lovers get into games involving Nerf balls, pool noodles and more. Preregister. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. $12. Info, 864-0123.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Toddler Yoga & Stories: Simple stretching and stories for mini yogis. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Library & Books

After-School Movie: Film buffs put up their feet and watch a flick, popcorn in hand. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: An adventurestory-telling musician shares songs with kids. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

6 SATURDAY

Arts

Fall Foliage Art in the Park: Artisans from around Vermont gather to show their works during a festival that also includes live music, activities for children and food. All ages. Chaffee Art Center, Rutland, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info, 775-0356.

Kids Craft: Creative children fashion a flying creature out of glitter and glue. Ages 5-15. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.

Mixed Media Drop-In: Kid-creators craft boats, prints, masks, cards and clay projects in a hands-on session. All ages. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $12.

Nutcracker Auditions: Aspiring performers try out for the VBTS’s performance of this Christmas classic. Ages 6 and up. Vermont Ballet Theatre School Shop, Essex, 1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-2941.

Ruckus: A Cirque Spectacular: Trapeze artists, jugglers and contortionists present high-flying, vaudeville-inspired entertainment. Barre Opera House, 3 & 7 p.m. $12-25; free for kids under 2. Info, 476-8188.

See “First with Kids” videos at FletcherAllen.org/firstwithkids

Saturday Drama Club: Thespians help Very Merry Theatre produce a show in just three hours. All ages. Preregister. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $15 (or pay what you can). Info, 863-6607.

Saturday Youth Art Studio Drop-In: Paint, draw, sculpt and more in the studio classroom with provided materials. Parents may stay or drop kids off. Ages 6-12. Burlington City Arts, 1-3 p.m. $9-10.

Info, 860-7474.

All ages. Hubbard Park, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Free. Info, 223-3338.

Nature & Science

Dead Creek Wildlife Day: Nature loves grab their binoculars to view the diverse wildlife through guided walks, exhibits, nature arts and crafts, and family-fun activities. Ages 3-18. Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area, Addison, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. Info, 241-3700.

Community

Baked Beads Clearance Sale: See October 5. Oct. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fingerprints: Kids get up close and personal with their prints, exploring what makes them unique. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Burlington YMCA Open House: Families observe classes, jump into open swim and check out the progams available. YMCA, Burlington, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Free. Info, 862-9622.

Fossils: Science enthusiasts handle preserved remains and use clues to guess their origins. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Fairs & Festivals

Hawk Walk: Late-migrating raptors provide interest on a leisurely bird walk. Bring your binoculars.

Ages 8 and up. Preregister. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5-8; free for kids under 3. Info, 985-8686.

Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In: Two dozen giant gourds vie for the heavyweight title. The fun also includes hay rides and pick-your-own adventures. All ages.

Sam Mazza’s Farm Market, Colchester, 1-3 p.m.

Free. Info, 655-3440.

Harvest Weekend: Celebrate the seasonal bounty with a husking bee and barn dance, and help with cider pressing, harvesting root vegetables, putting food by and more. Spiced cider and homemade doughnuts are free for the noshing. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $3-12; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Food

Butter Making: Children churn up golden goodness. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 11:30 a.m. $5-8; free for kids under 3. Info, 985-8686.

Health & Fitness

Enosburg Tumble Time: Children burn off some extra energy with play time in the gym. Ages birth6. Enosburg Elementary School, Enosburg Falls, first Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Quick Start Tennis: Parents and kids use scaleddown rackets, nets and equipment for immediate success their first time on the court. Preregister.

Leddy Park/Paquette Arena, Burlington, 9-9:45 & 10-10:45 a.m. $10. Info, 864-0123.

Walk for Farm Animals: Green Mountain Animal Defenders march goats down the outdoor pedestrian mall, raising awareness for the cause against abuse and neglect. Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1102.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & Books

Pierson Library Book Sale: Families find thousands of gently used books for kids of all ages.

Shelburne Town Center Gym, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Info, 985-5124.

Russian Story Time: Children find new friends while listening to stories and songs presented in a new language. English speakers welcome. Age birth-5. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

7 SUNDAY

Arts

Fall Foliage Art in the Park: See October 6.

Community

Baked Beads Clearance Sale: See October 5.

Fairs & Festivals

19th-Century Apple & Harvest Festival: Attendees find old-school fall fun in making cider with an antique press, tasting heirloom apple varieties and playing period games. All ages. Justin Morrill Homestead, Strafford Village, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $3-8.

Info, 765-4484.

City Market Harvest Celebration: Foodies get a taste of fall from locally produced foods, including wood-fired pizza, fresh bread, cheesecake and cookies. All ages. City Market, Burlington, noon4 p.m. Free. Info, 861-9700.

Giant Pumpkin Regatta & Festival: Gutted giant pumpkins are gently lowered into Lake Champlain and raced to benefit the PILOT youth leadership program. Festival fun includes vendors serving fall food favorites, a Vermont craft “patch,” kids’ activities and contests. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 951-8845.

Harvest Weekend: See October 6.

Pumpkin Festival: Wagon rides, music, theater, games and crafts entertain families in fall style.

There’s also a pick-your-own pumpkin patch.

Cedar Circle Farm, East Thetford, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $5 per car. Info, 257-0544.

Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival: This gourdthrowing contest is back for a fourth year to benefit the Lamoille Family Center and Cambridge Rotary.

Enjoy fall foods, a corn maze, volleyball and croquet while watching the fierce competition. All ages.

Boyden Family Farm, Cambridge, noon. $3-5; $5 to chuck. Info, 644-6363.

ATTENTION CLASS INSTRUCTORS! List your class in Kids VT for only $15/month!

Submit the listing by the 15th at kidsvt.com or classes@kidsvt.com

Health & Fitness

Basketball Clinics: The St. Michael’s College women’s basketball program instructs girls in grades 6-12 during this series of skills, covering offense, defense, rebounding, position play and special situations. Preregister. St. Michael’s College, Colchester, 9 a.m.-noon. $25. Info, 654-2503.

KIDS VT

StoryWalk Festival: Readers walk through the park, perusing eight posted stories. Other activities include book signing, entertainment and food.

Sundays for Fledglings: Kids hike, create, carve, act, write and investigate the lives of birds, their habitats and their neighbors. Intended for kids in grades 1-4, but all are welcome. Preregister. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-3 p.m. Free with regular admission. $3-6. Info, 434-2167.

OCTOBER 2012

‘Star Wars’ Reads Day: Jedi fans celebrate the mind-trick of reading with themed crafts, giveaways and raffles, as well as appearances by costumed characters. All ages. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

IT’S TIME TO DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW!

KIDSVT.COM

‘Star Wars’ Reads: Local Star Wars buff Aaron Masi celebrates Star Wars Reads Day with Jedi fans of all ages. After the read-aloud, choose a Lucas-themed book from the library’s large collection. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-11 a.m.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

LOOK CLOSER…

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Submit your November events by October 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

1t-campsclasses.indd 1

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OCT

Christ the King School

3 years old to 8th Grade 136 Locust Street Burlington, VT 862-6696 www.cksvt.org osteel@cksvt.org facebook.com/cksvt

We are proud of our Faith Filled Environment & Academic Excellence Art Music PE French Technology Licensed After-School Program Athletic & Enrichment

Opportunities EARLY EDUCATION OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, November 15th at 8:30am For learners entering Pre-school(3yo program)-Kindergarten for the 2013-2014 academic year.

Please visit our website and click on “Admissions” for more information.

k8v-ChristKing1012.indd 1

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CALENDAR

Story Times MONDAY Bristol Toddler Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.

Colchester Preschool Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Essex Free Drop-in Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 879-0313.

Fairfax Story Hour: Fairfax Community Library. Info, 849-2420.

Marshfield Story Time: Jaquith Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Milton Infant Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

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Warren Preschool Story and Enrichment Hour: Warren Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 595-2582.

Hinesburg Preschool Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 11 a.m.

Free. Info, 482-2878.

Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, first Tuesday of every month, 9:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 482-2878.

Richmond Story Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 434-3036.

Waitsfield Story Time: Joslin Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 496-4205.

South Burlington Tiny Tot Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:15 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Waterbury Toddlers-’n’-Twos: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 244-7036.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: Buttered Noodles, 1010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

East Barre Kids Story Hour: East Barre Branch Library, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.

Consignment drop-off Nov. 9th, 4-7pm.

Waitsfield Elementary School Route 100, Waitsfield, VT 802-496-3643 WESSkiSkate.com Pre-register at W.E.S. starting Oct. 29th.

Highgate Story Time: Highgate Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Stowe Story Times for 2- to 3-Year-Olds: Stowe Free Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, October 2, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Find new and used winter gear for skiers and riders of all ages.

Swanton Story Hour: Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 868-7656.

Milton Preschool Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 893-4644.

Burlington Science & Stories: ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, 11 a.m. $9.50-$12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 324-6386.

Waitsfield Elementary School

Grand Isle PJ Story Time: Grand Isle Free Library, first Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

St. Albans Story Time: St. Albans Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 524-1507.

Barre Children’s Story Hour: Aldrich Public Library, 10:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 476-7550.

9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Stowe Preschool Story Hour: Stowe Free Library, 10:15 a.m. Free.

Info, 253-6145.

Richmond Pajama Time: Richmond Free Library, 6:30-7 p.m.

Free. Info, 434-3036.

Alburgh Story Hour: Alburgh Community Education Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 796-6077.

Nov. 10-11

Georgia Pajama Story Time: Georgia Public Library, third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 524-4643.

Huntington Story Time in the Nestlings Nook: Birds of Vermont Museum, second Tuesday of every month, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free-$6.

Info, 434-2167.

TUESDAY

SPONSORED BY:

Early-literacy skills get special attention during these free readaloud sessions. Some locations provide additional activities such as music, crafts or foreign-language instruction. Contact the story-time organizer or visit kidsvt.com for details.

East Middlebury Preschool Stories: Sara Partridge Community Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Essex Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, Wednesdays, 1010:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Essex Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, 10-10:45 a.m.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

Essex Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, 9:10-9:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

Fairfax Preschool Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, 9:3010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Williston Reading With Frosty & Friends: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Williston Story Hour: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m.

Info, 878-4918.

Waterbury Baby Lap Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Williamstown Story Time: Ainsworth Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 433-5887.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

THURSDAY Bristol Preschool Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.

Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday.

Essex Free Preschool Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Franklin Story Time: Haston Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

Middlebury Early-Literacy Story Time: Ilsley Public Library, 10:3011:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Winooski Story Time: Winooski Memorial Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 655-6424.

Rutland Story Time: Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

WEDNESDAY

Shelburne Story Time With Mary Catherine Jones: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

Berkshire PJ Story Time: Berkshire Elementary School, second Wednesday of every month, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

East Barre Realms of Reading Crafts: East Barre Branch Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.

Essex Free Toddler Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 879-0313.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday. 11:15 a.m.

Montgomery Story Hour: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, montgomery.librarian@ gmail.com.

Richford Story Hour: Arvin A. Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 848-3313.

Shelburne Story Time With Webby: Shelburne Museum, 10:3011 a.m. Free-$20. Info, 985-3346.

South Burlington Baby Book Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

South Burlington Story Time: Barnes & Noble, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

St. Albans Story Time: See Monday.

Vergennes Story Time: Bixby Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 877-2211.

Westford Story Time: Westford Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-5639.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

FRIDAY Enosburg Story Hour: Enosburg Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2328.

Essex Drop-In Story Time: Brownell Library, Every other Friday, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Georgia Preschool Story Time: Georgia Public Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 524-4643.

Huntington Story Time: Huntington Public Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 434-4583.

Lincoln Children’s Story Time: Lincoln Library, 10:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 453-2665.

Milton Toddler Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free.

Info, 893-4644.

South Burlington Pajamarama: Barnes & Noble, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 652-7080.

South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, first Friday of every month, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Stowe Baby & Toddler Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 253-6145.

Waterbury Preschool Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m.

Free. Info, 244-7036.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

SATURDAY Barre Story Time: Next Chapter Bookstore, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-3114.

Colchester Drop-In Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Milton Therapy Dog Story Time: Milton Public Library, first Saturday of every month, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

South Burlington Saturday Story Time: See Wednesday. 11 a.m.

South Burlington SecondSaturday Stories: South Burlington Community Library, second Saturday of every month, 10:15 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 652-7080.

SUNDAY Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

See “First with Kids” videos at FletcherAllen.org/firstwithkids

7 SUNDAY (CONTINUED)

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

Postnatal Yoga: See October 4, 12:15 p.m.

Library & Books

David Shannon at Flying Pig: See spotlight, pg. 34.

Pierson Library Book Bargain Day: Penny-pinchers take advantage of low prices on terrific tomes.

Shelburne Town Center Gym, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Info, 985-5124.

Nature & Science

Hoopster Gliders: Creativity soars as kids craft a flying contraption. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Kitchen Chemistry: Kids explore scientific reactions with household products. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

8 MONDAY

Arts

Imagination Studio: Kids apply their minds to creative projects with supplied tools and materials.

Ages 5 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: Moms-in-the-making give their full attention to relaxation and strength building. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. $15. Info, 778-0300.

Yoga After Baby: New moms focus on their core, pelvic floor and arm strength, bringing their infants along if they choose. Shambala Center, Montpelier, 11 a.m.-noon. $10. Info, 778-0300.

Health & Fitness

Hot Mama Workout: See October 4.

Library & Books

Mother Goose Cares About the Early Years: Childcare providers learn the skills needed to introduce language and literacy to infants and toddlers through books and other early-learning materials. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

9 TUESDAY

CALENDAR

Health & Fitness

Family Archery: See October 2.

breast-feeding support group. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 9:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 985-8228.

Library & Books

Community

Creative Tuesdays: See October 2.

Duct Tape Parenting Signing: Parenting on Track creator Vicki Hoefle signs copies of her new book, which takes a less-is-more approach to raising resilient kids. Flying Pig Children’s Books, Shelburne, 7 p.m. Free. Info, parentingontrack.com.

Game On!: Kids learn new diversions or play old faves. All ages. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, second Tuesday of every month, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories: Harvest Time: Bye-bye summer.

Kids explore the bounty of fall. Ages 3-5. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

Food

10 WEDNESDAY

Kids in the Kitchen: Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup: Homemade soup insulates against the fall chill as kids grill sandwiches for dunking. All ages accompanied by an adult. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

Art for Tots: See October 3.

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: See October 2.

OCT

Arts

Readers Theatre Rehearsals: See October 3.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington La Leche League: Moms bring their questions, babies and older kids, too, to this

Georgia Family Game Night: Candy Land, checkers and Monopoly bring gamers to the library. Visitors are welcome to carry in other favorites, too. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Education

Admissions 101: An independent educational consultant discusses college-search questions, such as what admissions committees are looking for and financial-aid queries. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Social Thinking: See October 3.

Food

Cookie Decorating: See October 3.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Tiny Tot Sports: Parents and kids compete in high-energy games using pool noodles, balls and parachutes. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, $25. Info, 864-0123.

10 WEDNESDAY, P. 35

Submit your November events by October 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

There is no cost to participate.

KIDSVT.COM

Calling all creative kids, parents and other adults for a free wacky day of events for kids and their parents! Come think on your feet and practice your creative problem solving skills!

Tease your brain! Play with your food! Build! Create! Laugh! Improvise!

OCTOBER 2012 9/25/12 11:23 AM

33

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KIDS VT

QUESTIONS? CALL 864-8436 OR VISIT WWW.VTDI.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION

oct cALendAr

there’s a dream in all of us ... feed it.

WIC offers healthy food, nutrition resources, and referrals to health and community services to families in Vermont.

Find out how WIC can help your family grow.

Call 1-800-649-4357 or visit our web site at healthvermont.gov/wic k4t-VtDepthealthWIC0511.indd 1

WIC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

...youÕre family now

4/15/11 12:20 PM

34

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october 2012 KidsVT.com

Intimate, comfortable and confident. The Copley Birthing Center gives our moms and babies the kind of care that only a small, family oriented facility can offer. From our homey dŽcor of cozy quilts and soothing earth tones to the comfy, hand-made knitted caps we give to each new arrival, our family of doctors, nurses and midwives provide our moms and newborns with a very personal level of support, both physically and emotionally.

• 1:1 labor support • OB/GYN Specialists • Water Births & Hydrotherapy • Certified Nurse Midwives • Pain Management including Epidurals • Lactation Support • Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Section (VBAC)

Go Jangles caldecott honoree daVid shaNNoN has landed a new book. Jangles: A Big Fish Story is the tale of the biggest fish in big Lake, so named because it trails fishing hooks and lures that jangle as it swims. the big trout nets a young fisherman, taking him on a wild ride to the bottom of lake. the books’ hyperbole and humor — and stunning oil-painting illustrations — make it a fish fable that’ll hook parents, too. the Los Angeles author and illustrator reads and signs his books, including those from his popular No, David! series. daVid shaNNoN: Sunday, October 7, Flying Pig Bookstore, Shelburne, noon. Free.

Preregister. Info, 985-3999, flyingpigbooks.com.

528 Washington Highway, Morrisville 802-888-8888 www.copleyvt.org k4t-CopleyHealth0812.indd 1

submit your November events by october 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

7/25/12 5:06 PM

See “First with Kids” videos at FletcherAllen.org/firstwithkids

Movin’ & Groovin’ With Christine: See October 3.

NOOK Kids APPtivity: See October 3.

Preschool Music With Raphael: See October 3.

A Top Secret Program: Undercover agents work together to complete a mission before time runs out. Ages 8 and up. South Burlington Community Library, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Youth Media Lab: See October 3.

Nature & Science

Programs for Preschoolers: See October 3.

11 THURSDAY

Arts

Education

Homeschool Project Day: Kids learning at home present projects they’re working on. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Hot Mama Workout: See October 4.

Raising Healthy Kids Naturally: Parents hear from a local chiropractor about raising kids without antibiotics or other medications, as well as avoiding ADD, ADHD and ear infections. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 12:15-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & Books

Book to Film Discussion: Teens read Peter Benchley’s Jaws, then watch the movie at the library, discussing both formats over pizza. Books available at the library. Ages 12 and up. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Hand in Hand: See October 4.

Highgate Youth Advisory: See October 4.

LEGO Club: Building-block lovers of all ages get busy with the library’s sets of Duplos, Quatros and Legos. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

12 FRIDAY Family Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Preschool Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Nature & Science

Evening Wagon Ride: Riders dressed for the weather enjoy hot cider on a horse-drawn, halfhour trip around the farm. Shelburne Farms, 6, 6:35 & 7:10 p.m. $7-15; free for kids under 3. Info, 985-8686.

Let’s Talk About Race: Story Hour: Literature and personal stories engage kids and their caregivers in conversations about race and racism in the United States. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

13 SATURDAY

Arts

Fall Craft Fair: More than 40 artisans and crafters display and sell their products just in time for the holidays. University Mall, South Burlington, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1066, ext. 11.

A Project of American Antropological Association Funded by Ford Foundation & National Science Foundation

An eye-opening exhibit challenging perceptions and beliefs on race.

Kids Craft: Kids make bitty-boo baskets for use in tricking and treating. Ages 5 to 15. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.

Major Mess: Young artists explore holiday-themedC projects with mixed media. All ages. Children under 4 must be accompanied by an adult. Purple M Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Y $10. Info, 457-3500.

Mixed Media Drop-In: See October 6.

CM

Perler Bead Craft: Children fuse colorful creations with supplied beads and boards. Ages 6 and MY up. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, CY 524-1507.

Saturday Drama Club: See October 6.

Snoozapalooza: Dr. Seuss’ Sleep Book inspires a story session for kids who arrive equipped with blankets, pillows, stuffed animals and bedtime attire. Ages 3-10. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

RACE: Are We So Different? is the first traveling exhibition in the U.S. to tell the stories of race from biological, cultural, and historical points of view.

CMY

K

echovermont.org/race

Community

Family Ghost Walk: Fright fans travel to Battery Park and the Champlain Train Station for a “twisted history walk” with haunting tales. Ages 5 and up.

Downtown Burlington, 2-4 p.m. $15. Info, 316-1510.

Additional support provided by: ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center

KIDS VT

Teen Movie: Young adults watch Snow White and the Huntsman, an action-adventure epic starring Charlize Theron, Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth. PG-13. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956.

9/21/12 12:07 PM

After-School Movie: See October 5.

OCTOBER 2012

Arts

k8h-ChiitendenSolidWaste1012.indd 1

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

@ECHOvt

BURLINGTON, VERMONT

ECHOVERMONT.ORG

877.324.6386

35

*$2 October 6 only. Regular admission rates apply other days.

13 SATURDAY, P. 36 k4t-Echo1012.indd 1

KIDSVT.COM

VolunTeens: Young adults plan events for the library. Grades 7-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

9/26/12 11:54 AM

ad

Health & Fitness

k8h-Monthshire1012.indd 1

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

Library & Books

VINS Homeschooling Series: Educators foster kids’ curiousities in hands-on programs about streams, fields, forests and animals. Separate sessions for grades 1-3 and 4-6. Preregister. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10-11:30 a.m. $10-12. Info, 359-5000, ext 223.

802-649-2200

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Toddler Yoga & Stories: See October 5.

Education

One Montshire Rd. Norwich, VT

Health & Fitness

Mom’s Matinee: See October 4.

Pollywog Drop-In Art: See October 4.

www.montshire.org

School Lunch for Dinner: The Burlington School Food Project shows off tasty, cafeteria-style culinary creations. After dinner, see a food movie: What’s On Your Plate? Burlington High School, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Donations. Info, 861-9757.

Art Explorers: See October 4.

Open Mic Night: Local talents strut their musical stuff in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Ages teen to adult. ArtisTree Gallery, Woodstock, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 457-3500.

Open daily 10 – 5

Food

Hands-on science nature trails  live animals outdoor Science Park daily activities visiting exhibitions Museum Store free parking

!*

May’s Music & Movement: See October 3.

—Parents magazine

ay

LEGO Afternoons: See October 3.

Tibetan Sand Art: Participants welcome the Dalai Lama to Middlebury by creating Rangoli-style artwork with local artist Joy Danila on the library steps. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4907.

O OP C E m TO N iss B S io E n R al 6 ld

Library & Books

One of the nation’s top 25 science centers

$2

10 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)

Montshire Museum of Science

9/26/12 11:20 AM

OCT CALENDAR

Planning a kids event?

See “First with Kids” videos at FletcherAllen.org/firstwithkids

Get Creative

List your event for free in the Kids VT monthy calendar.

Submit your info by the 15th of the month online at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com

calendar COURTESY OF CHRIS MCKINLEY

Dance

12v-calendar.indd 1

7/29/11 12:35 PM

2012 dance apparel warm-ups accessories dance shoes:

ballet pointe jazz tap zumba ballroom gymnastics irish dance & much more Opening a 2nd location in Montpelier!

Education

Creativity Day: See spotlight, pg. 36.

Kids Night Out: Small ones make a splash at swimming and movie activities with groups for tots ages 1 to 4 and older children ages 5 to 12. Preregister. YMCA, Burlington, 5:30-8 p.m. $8-16. Info, 862-9622.

The Ethan and Ira Challenge: Kids step into the shoes of 18th-century Vermonters during a historical scavenger hunt, learning about outdoor survival, gardening, military life and more. All ages. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $3-5. Info, 865-4556.

Onion River 8K Trail Race: Run through the fields and forests of Montpelier includes a kids loop, prizes and raffle. Register at runreg.com or at 8 a.m. race day. Proceeds benefit the North Branch Nature Center. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 9:30 a.m. $5-15. Info, 229-9409.

Fairs & Festivals

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

13 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)

Cabot Apple Pie Festival: Pies vie for the sweet spot in a festival that also includes games, raffles and crafts. School-age chefs compete in the junior division. Cabot School, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 563-2526.

Fall Festival: Celebrate 25 years at the museum with live birds, music, crafts, face painting and wood carving. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $2; free for kids 3 and under. Info, 434-2167.

Wagon-Ride Weekend: Relax with the family during narrated wagon rides around Billings’ fields during the height of fall foliage, and don’t miss the farm’s other programs and activities. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $3-12; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Food

Butter Making: See October 6.

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KIDS VT

OCTOBER 2012 KIDSVT.COM

Health & Fitness

Franklin Tumble Time: Gym time provides an opportunity to run, jump and play. Ages birth-6.

Franklin Central School, second Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Just Move It: Families get a move on, trying activities to help alleviate arthritis symtoms and promote good health while raising awareness about the disease. Preregister online or on site at 9 a.m. All ages.

ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 877-324-1848.

Library & Books

Highgate PJ Story Time: Children get ready for bed with crafts and a sleep-inducing story at the library.

Ages birth-6. Highgate Public Library, 6 & 6:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 868-3970.

Nature & Science

Autumn Night Sky: Nature shows off in front of folks watching from blankets. Bring your own binoculars; marshmallows provided. Preregister.

Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 273-2282.

Bird-Monitoring Walk: Birders bring binoculars for a walk on museum property. Best for adults and older kids with some experience. Preregister. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 8-10 a.m.

Free (donations welcome). Info, 434-2167.

Creeping Colors: This science-packed session teaches kids about capillary action as they watch water crawl up paper and find hidden colors inside a marker. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Family Spider Safari: Amazing arachnids inspire kids to look closely at live specimens and craft their own 3D models and webs. Ages 3 and up.

Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10 a.m.-noon. $10-12 per adult-child pair; $4-5 per additional child. Info, 434-3068.

Fossils: See October 6.

Sundays for Fledglings: See October 6.

17 State St., Suite 201, Montpelier • 225-6552 2035 Essex Rd (Rt 2A N), Williston • 878-8988

www.linesforthebody.com

Submit your November events by October 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

You’re hosting a birthday party, but you only have sunglasses, a bucket, string and some candy to work with.

What do you do? At CREATIVITY DAY, participants tackle this and other tasks designed to encourage thinking outside the box. The event is an introduction to Destination ImagiNation, a nonprofit that organizes problem-solving tournaments, including a statewide competition in March. Pasquale DiLego, who helps organize local DI groups, says Creativity Day is not only fun; it’s good practice for real-life challenges.

CREATIVITY DAY: Saturday, October 13, Burlington High School, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8436, vtdi.org.

14 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity International Cesarean Awareness Network Meeting: Expectant parents, care providers, doulas and educators attend a session offering information about various types of birth and recovery. Eastern View Integrative Medicine, South Burlington, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 644-6700.

Fairs & Festivals

Charlotte Tractor Parade: Spectators see hundreds of farm machines roll by and have fun with a pieeating contest, craft fair, live music and children’s activities. All ages. Corner of Spear Street and Hinesburg road, Charlotte, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 425-4444.

Wagon-Ride Weekend: See October 13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: Girls learn about themselves through movement, games and crafts. Ages 7-11.

Preregister. Chabad Jewish Community Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon, $10. Info, 318-3598.

Nature & Science

Mirror, Mirror: Little ones use looking glasses to investigate reflection and symmetry. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Parachutes: Curious kids make their own ’chutes to test air resistance. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Terrific Tractors: Future farmers climb aboard a variety of big machines that help get the job done.

Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $5-8, free for members and kids under 3. Info, 985-0327.

Education

18 THURSDAY

Babysitters for hire: Sitters advertise their skills and parents talk to attendees to find help. For sitters ages 10-15. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. $10 for sitters; free for parents.

Info, 316-1510.

Food

art Explorers: See October 4.

Food

afternoon hoops: See October 3.

15 MONDAY

16 TUESDAY

Arts

Education

imagination studio: See October 8.

Baby & Maternity

Breast-Feeding class: Expectant mothers learn the basics for successful nursing. Participants receive additional support postpartum. Preregister. Franklin County Home Health Agency, St. Albans, 7-9 p.m. $15. Info, 527-7531. montpelier Prenatal yoga: See October 8.

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: See October 2.

Library & Books

yoga after Baby: See October 8.

creative Tuesdays: See October 2.

Education

Early Literacy Workshop: Parents of preschoolers learn ways to encourage young readers. Refreshments, childcare and a free book provided. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

magic: The Gathering: Fans of this trading-card game gather for play with their own deck, or borrow one from the library. Grades 6-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Nature & Science

science & stories: Pumpkins: Did you plant a pumpkin in your garden last spring? What happened after you planted the seed? Explore the life cycle of a pumpkin and “make” one to take home. Ages 3-5.

ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

Health & Fitness

hot mama Workout: See October 4. my First yoga: See October 8.

Library & Books

mother Goose cares about the Early years: See October 8.

17 WEDNESDAY

Nature & Science

Arts

Books & Beyond: Children’s literature meets hands-on activities for science learning and exploration. Ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:15-11 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Arts

social Thinking: See October 3.

Little chefs cooking class: Kid chefs toss together a pizza and bake cookies. Ages 3-5. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. $24.

Info, 316-1510.

cookie decorating: See October 3.

Health & Fitness

Growing mindful, a Journey for young People: Students develop an awareness of their surroundings and learn the difference between an automatic reaction and a mindful response through interactive games. First session for Kindergarten-grade 3, second session for grades 4-6. Preregister. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:15 & 4:30-5:15 p.m.

Free. Info, 878-6956.

Kids open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Library & Books

LEGo afternoons: See October 3. may’s music & movement: See October 3. movin’ & Groovin’ With christine: See October 3.

NooK Kids aPPtivity: See October 3.

Pajama story Time: Kids dress in their bedtime best to hear stories over cookies and milk. All ages.

Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 879-7576.

readers Theatre rehearsals: See October 3.

youth media Lab: See October 3.

Nature & Science

Programs for Preschoolers: See October 3.

Pollywog drop-in art: See October 4.

Community

Empty Bowl dinner: Community members help support at-risk and homeless teens by enjoying soup served in a handmade ceramic bowl — a keepsake of the evening. All ages. Elley-Long Music Center, Colchester, 5:30 p.m. $20-50. Info, 864-7423, ext. 330.

Food

Tiny Tot sports: See October 10.

Preschool music With raphael: See October 3.

art for Tots: See October 3.

mom’s matinee: See October 4.

Flatbreads from around the World: Kids explore the world through cooking, making Mexican tortillas, Middle Eastern pita bread and Indian chapatis.

Ages 8 and up. Preregister. McClure Multigenerational Center, Burlington, 5-6:30 p.m. $5-10. Info, 861-9700.

Health & Fitness

hot mama Workout: See October 4.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & Books

hand in hand: See October 4. highgate youth advisory: See October 4.

18 Thursday, p. 38

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Kids VT

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october 2012

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KidsVT.com

KIDS & ADULTS.

OCT CALENDAR

18 THURSDAY (CONTINUED)

19 FRIDAY

LEGO Club: See October 11.

Arts

Middle School Book to Film: Little literati read Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz and then watch the movie at the library, snacks included. Grades 6-8. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Shelburne Magic Club: See October 4, 6-8 p.m.

Young Writers Club: Budding scribes work on exercises and prompts designed to ignite a creative spark. Grades 5 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Nature & Science

Bat House Workshop: Build a home for winged night-fl yers to be painted and used later. Ages 12 and up. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 11 a.m.

Free. Info, 893-4644.

Playgroups MONDAY Barre Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, 10 a.m.noon. $10 child. Info, 223-0517.

Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers & Toddlers: St. Joseph School, 11 p.m. Free. Info, 999-5100.

Colchester Playgroup: Malletts Bay School, Tuesdays, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5900.

Essex Open Gym: Regal Gymnastics Academy, 11 a.m.-noon. $8; free for children under 18 months.

Info, 655-3300.

Isle La Motte Playgroup: Isle La Motte School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Jericho Playgroup: Jericho Community Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Rutland Babies & Toddlers Rock: Rutland Free Library, fi rst Monday of every month, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, second Monday, Wednesday of every month, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

South Hero Playgroup: South Hero Congregational Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Swanton Playgroup: Mary S. Babcock School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Williston Music With Raphael: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:45 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Free.

Info, 878-4918.

Winooski Fathers & Children Together: Winooski Family Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

TUESDAY

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KIDS VT

OCTOBER 2012 KIDSVT.COM

Bristol Playgroup: Bristol Baptist Church, 9:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Burlington Family Play: VNA Family Room, Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Fathers and Children Together: VNA Family Room, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Music With Robert: Fletcher Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Colchester Playgroup: See Monday.

Essex BBF Playgroup: Essex Junction Recreation and Parks Department, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 872-9580.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday.

Family Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Movie Matinee: Kids take in a PG-rated Halloween-themed movie from the ’80s. Popcorn and drinks provided. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free.

Info, 524-1507.

Preschool Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Comm unity

The Haunted Forest: Ghostly guides lead visitors along a jack-o’-lantern-lined path into the magic of a nighttime forest fi lled with creepy characters. Best for ages 8 and up. Matinee performances o˛ er a less scary option. Catamount Outdoor Family Center, Williston, 7, 8, 9 & 10 p.m. $12.50 evening, $8.50 matinee. Info, 238-0923.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Youth Night: Teens and tweens hang out and enjoy movies, snacks and projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Nature & Science

Toddler Yoga & Stories: See October 5.

Let’s Talk About Race: Story Hour: See October 12.

Library & Books

20 SATURDAY

After-School Movie: See October 5.

Jiggity Jog: Kids let music move them via song, instrument and dance. Ages 2-6. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: See October 5.

Teddy Bear Sleepover: Stu˛ ed animals spend the night at the library. Kids drop o˛ their furry friends before 5 p.m., then return for breakfast and pictures showing the evening’s adventure at 10 a.m. on October 20. Ages 2 and up. Preregister. Milton Public Library, Free. Info, 893-4644.

Arts

Kids Craft: Halloween fans create a glittery, painted wooden pumpkin. Ages 5-15. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.

Mixed Media Drop-In: See October 6.

Saturday Drama Club: See October 6.

Saturday Youth Art Studio Drop-In: See October 6.

Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers, and caregivers connect with other local parents and friends. The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts, or music themes.

Contact the playgroup organizer or visit kidsvt.com for site-specific details.

Georgia Playgroup: Georgia Elementary & Middle School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Hardwick Playgroup: Hardwick Elementary School, 8:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 652-5138.

Johnson Baby Chat: Church of the Nazarene, fourth Tuesday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free.

Info, 888-3470.

Middlebury Playgroup: Middlebury Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Milton Playgroup: New Life Fellowship Church, Thursdays, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-1457.

Montpelier LEGO Club: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, third Tuesday of every month, 3:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 223-4665.

Montpelier Tulsi Morning Playgroup: Tulsi Tea Room, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-0043.

Richford Playgroup: Cornerstone Bridges to Life Community Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

St. Albans Playgroup: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Worcester Playgroup: Doty Memorial School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 229-0173.

St. Albans BBF Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, St. Albans, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

St. Albans Music & Movement: St. Albans Free Library, 10:15-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Vergennes Playgroup: Congregational Church of Vergennes, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 388-3171.

Williston Baby-Time Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Oct. 10, 10:30 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 658-3659.

THURSDAY Alburgh Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, Alburgh, Free. Info, 527-5426.

Bolton Playgroup: Smilie Memorial School, Oct. 4, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Burlington Family Play: See Tuesday.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, second Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-noon, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Essex BBF Playgroup: See Tuesday.

WEDNESDAY

Essex Open Gym: See Monday.

Barre Open Gym: See Monday.

Fletcher Tumble Time: Fletcher Elementary School. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Enosburg Playgroup: American Legion - Enosburg, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 933-6435.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday Essex Welcome Baby Playgroup: Move You Fitness Studio, 10 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 872-9580.

Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrup Memorial Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Hinesburg Playgroup for Dads: Annette’s Preschool, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Morrisville Open Gym: River Arts, October 24, 10-11:30 a.m. $5 child, $3 additional child. Info, 888-1261.

Richmond Playgroup: Richmond Free Library, 8:45-10:15 a.m. Free.

Shelburne Sing-Along: Lemon Peel Café and Crêperie, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 985-9511.

South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264.

Fletcher Playgroup: Fletcher Elementary School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Milton Playgroup: See Tuesday.

Montgomery Infant Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Morrisville Baby Chat: First Congregational Church of Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

Shelburne Infant & Toddler Playgroups: See Tuesday.

Williston Music With Raphael: See Monday.

10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Winooski Playgroup: O’Brien Community Center, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

FRIDAY Essex Center Playgroup: Memorial Hall, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6751.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday.

Fairfax Community Playgroup: BFA Fairfax, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Ferrisburgh Open Gym: Ferrisburgh Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Info, 899-4415.

Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

St. Albans MOPS: Church of the Rock, fi rst Friday of every month, 8:45-11 a.m. Free. Info, 891-1230.

Swanton Late-Morning Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7147; jakruwet@yahoo.com.

SATURDAY Franklin Playgroup: Franklin Central School, second Saturday of every month, 10-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 527-5426.

Morrisville Weekend Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

South Burlington Tots & Tykes Open Gym: Chamberlin Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Info, 846-4108.

Lego

See “First with Kids” videos at FletcherAllen.org/firstwithkids

A Symphony of Whales: Kids VT partners with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra to present a familyfriendly, interactive concert where musicians bring a story to life through onstage narration coupled with musical accompaniment of spooky selections.

Kids in costume show off in a dress-up parade. All ages. McCarthy Arts Center, Colchester, 11 a.m. $5-7; $15 family pass. Info, 985-5482.

Community

Fancy Nancy Party: Kids don suits and party dresses for a fashionable affair with books, games, photo opportunities and prizes. A free ticket is required; visit umallvt.com for full details. South Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. $3 donation per child benefits the Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care.

Info, 863-1066, ext. 11.

Nature & Science

Glaciers: Science buffs explore the properties of ice while making model glaciers. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Turtle Discovery: Young naturalists learn about shelled natives and help feed those that reside in the museum. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

22 MONDAY

Arts

Imagination Studio: See October 8.

The Haunted Forest: See October 19. 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Education

Yoga After Baby: See October 8.

Pumpkin & Pirates: Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate provides entertainment as kids paint pumpkins and search for buried treasure among the jack-o’-lanterns in the nursery. Gardener’s Supply, Williston, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 658-2433.

Food

Butter Making: See October 6.

Health & Fitness

Family Fun Night: The whole family enjoys an evening at the Y with swimming, snacks, movies and more. Swimming is from 5-6:30 p.m., and the movie starts at 6:30 p.m. All ages. YMCA, Burlington, 5-8 p.m. $3-5. Info, 862-9622.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Zombie Run 5K: Undead-heads run an obstacle course, trying to beat the clock and stay ahead of the flesh-eating zombies. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10-67. Info, 752-7670.

Nature & Science

Skulls: Science lovers explore skeletal remains of local wildlife. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Straw Rockets: Mini engineers discover the power of air during this hands-on session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Sundays for Fledglings: See October 6.

21 SUNDAY

Arts

A Symphony of Whales: See spotlight, pg. 40.

Treasured Stories: Eric Carle: The Mermaid Theatre Company uses blacklight puppetry to bring The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other colorful stories to life. Ages 3-7. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 3 p.m. $15-22. Info, 863-5966.

Health & Fitness

YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: See October 14.

Library & Books

Health & Fitness

Hello Kitty.

Hot Mama Workout: See October 4.

My First Yoga: See October 8.

23 TUESDAY Great selection of shoes for the entire family

Arts

Art Safari: Tots dive into stories and art activities related to the museum’s collections. Ages 3-5 with adult. Preregister. Shelburne Museum. $5-7.50 child. Info, 985-3346.

Food

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: See October 2.

Kids in the Kitchen: Cranberry Orange Muffins: Young chefs measure and mix a batch of muffins with fresh zest and dried cranberries. All ages accompanied by an adults. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

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Library & Books

Creative Tuesdays: See October 2.

‘Duct Tape Parenting’ Signing: Parenting on Track creator Vicki Hoefle discusses topics and signs her new book, which takes a less-is-more approach to raising resilient children. Next Chapter Bookstore, Barre, 7 p.m. Info, 476-3114.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories: Salmon Spawning: Preschoolers learn how Lake Champlain fish make a treacherous trip to release their eggs. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2.

Info, 877-324-6386.

24 WEDNESDAY

Arts

A Symphony of Whales: The Vermont Symphony Orchestra presents an interactive, family-friendly concert where musicians bring a story to life through onstage narration coupled with musical accompaniment of spooky selections. Kids in costume show off in a dress-up parade. All ages. St. Johnsbury Academy, 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m. $5-7; $15 family pass. Info, 800-876-9293, ext. 14.

Plus, enjoy an 11:00 AM presentation for adults - Introduction to Waldorf Education.

Art for Tots: See October 3.

OCTOBER 2012

Book Sale: Frugal readers browse books to benefit the Winooski Memorial Library. Tomes cost between $.25 and $1, or $2 per bagful, and include many children’s titles. Winooski Welcome Center, 1-2 p.m. Info, 655-6424.

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See October 8.

KIDSVT.COM

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

meets

KIDS VT

24 WEDNESDAY, P. 40

39

Submit your November events by October 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com. k4t-LCWaldorf1012.indd 1

9/26/12 4:28 PM

2012-2013

OCT CALENDAR

NOT TOO LATE TO REGISTER!

Inspiring dancers, bringing art to life

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Beginner to Advanced s (IP (OP *AZZ TAP !GES UP s -ODErn s 0ILATES Yoga s "ODY Transformer classes s 3UMMER #LASSES #AMPS s 0ErforMANCE /PPORTUNITY “Vermont’s Own .UTCRACKERv AT THE &LYNN #ENTER FOR THE !RTS h3PRING 0Erformance�

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O N

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OCTOBER 2012 KIDSVT.COM KIDS VT

40

Nature & Science

Mater Christi School Open House: Prospective students and their parents get a tour of the school grounds and chat with educators. Preregister.

Mater Christi School, Burlington, 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 658-3992.

Programs for Preschoolers: See October 3.

25 THURSDAY

Social Thinking: See October 3.

Arts

Food

Little Chefs Cooking Class: See October 18.

Art Explorers: See October 4.

Cookie Decorating: See October 3.

Mom’s Matinee: See October 4.

Health & Fitness

Pollywog Drop-In Art: See October 4.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

The Haunted Forest: See October 19. 7, 8 & 9 p.m.

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Tiny Tot Sports: See October 10.

Library & Books

LEGO Afternoons: See October 3.

May’s Music & Movement: See October 3.

Movin’ & Groovin’ With Christine: See October 3.

NOOK Kids APPtivity: See October 3.

Preschool Music With Raphael: See October 3.

Tales to Tails: Beginning readers practice skills by reading to trained therapy dogs. Rutland Free Library, 4-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Community Education

Fall Parent Open House: Parents learn about the school and its holistic approach. Free. The Bellwether School, Williston, 6 p.m. Info, 863-4839.

Fairs & Festivals

Halloween Extravaganza: Kids don costumes for a spooky celebration that includes games, snacks, crafts and trick-or-treating around the library. Ages birth-8. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 524-1507.

at Shelburne Commons

9/27/12 9/20/12 11:48 2:04 PM AM

Jazz - Tap - Ballet Lyrical - Hip Hop - modern Dance & gymnastics Musical theater acrobatics Ballroom - Dance fitness Competion team

Williston • COlchester

• Georgia

Severance Corners

1151 Ethan Allen Hwy.

871-5846

527-0509

to register, call 871-5846 or Visit us online at...

www.MovementCenterVT.com

k4t-MovementCenter1012.indd 1

Education

Shelburne Campus 4066 Shelburne Road

New private lessons -- Piano - Guitar - Voice

658-5700

Youth Media Lab: See October 3.

!

Register now for our 2012- 2013 Season

210 Pioneer Drive

24 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)

9/26/12 11:34 AM

Classical for Kids The Vermont Symphony Orchestra uses whales, tales and costumes to connect kids to classical music in three concerts around the state.

Copresented by Kids VT, the shows start with an introduction to the instruments, followed by a parade of costumed kids crossing the stage to the tune of “In the Hall of the Mountain King.� Then Swanton music teacher Melissa Ewell reads Steve Schuch’s fact-based children’s book, A SYMPHONY OF WHALES, in which 3000 belugas are stranded in a narrow channel in the Senyavina Strait of Siberia. A rescuing ice breaker arrives, but the whales won’t swim to safety without musical accompaniment. Audience members get to choose the tunes; the musicians provide the soundtrack.

SYMPHONY OF WHALES: Saturday, October 20, McCarthy Arts Center, St. Michael’s College, Colchester, 11 a.m.; Bellows Free Academy Performing Arts Center, St. Albans, 4 p.m.; Sunday, October 21, Middlebury College Mahaney Center for the Arts, Middlebury, 2 p.m. $15 family, $7 adults, $5 seniors and children. Info, 8645741, ext. 10, vso.org.

See “First with Kids” videos at FletcherAllen.org/firstwithkids

Health & Fitness

Hot Mama Workout: See October 4.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Community

The Haunted Forest: See October 19. 11 a.m., noon, 1, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10 p.m.

Education

CALL 865-LEAD

Mysterious Hogwarts Reading Society: Fantasy fans gather to discuss magical reads. Grades 4-6.

Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Free. Info, 388-4097.

Fairs & Festivals

Nature & Science

Halloween Parade: Floats fill main street as marching bands and local dignitaries celebrate the spooky holiday. All ages. Downtown, Rutland, 6:30 p.m. Free.

October is Lead Poisoning Prevention Month and lead poisoning is the #1 Environmental Health Threat facing children in the U.S. today. The only way to know if your child has been lead poisoned is to have them tested.

Help us stop spread lead and have all children under 6 tested for lead poisoning. For more information on how to keep your home and your family safe from lead paint dangers, contact the Burlington Lead Program today.

Library & Books

Hand in Hand: See October 4.

Highgate Youth Advisory: See October 4.

LEGO Club: See October 11.

Getting Ready for Winter: Find out how animals prepare for the cold and snow and whether they migrate, stay put or take a really long nap. Ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. $8-10 per adult/child pair; $4 per additional child. Info, 434-3068.

26 FRIDAY

Arts

Family Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Family Movie: Families munch on free popcorn while watching The Pirates: Band of Misfits, setting sail on a voyage of hilarious swashbuckling antics.

Rated PG. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Preschool Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Community

The Haunted Forest: See October 19.

Pumpkin Lobotomy: Kid carvers light up the lawn with a giant jack-o’-lantern display after designing and cutting great gourds. Prizes awarded for funniest, most creative and scariest. Essex Middle School, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1342.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Toddler Yoga & Stories: See October 5.

Library & Books

After-School Movie: See October 5.

Nature & Science

Friday Nights for Teen Tinkerers: Young adults plan and build cool creations, such as robots that draw, electronic bugs or tessellating designs. Grades 6-9. Preregistration recommended. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6:30-8 p.m. $14-16.

Info, 649-2200.

Let’s Talk About Race: Story Hour: See October 12.

27 SATURDAY Kids Craft: Scarecrows come to life in the hands of little crafters. Ages 5-15. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.

Halloween Party: Costume-clad kids celebrate the spooky holiday with cookie decorating, pumpkin painting, doughnut bobbing, crafts and games. Dress as a PBS character and pose for pictures with show backgrounds. Ages birth-5. Vermont Public Television, Colchester, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $1 per child; free for caregivers. Info, 655-4800.

Halloween Tour: Kids of all ages get creeped out on a Victorian-Gothic-literature-themed tour. Noyes House Museum, Morrisville, 1-5 p.m. Donations.

Info, 888-7617.

The Haunted Forest Matinee: A ghoulish guided tour entertains the youngest of the spook set. Ages 8 and under. Catamount Outdoor Family Center, Williston, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $8.50. Info, 238-0923.

Hoots and Howls: Guided tours along pumpkin-lit paths give costumed kids a spook. Then they hear stories, watch skits and see some live animals. Ages 4-17. Preregister. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 5:30-8 p.m. $6-8; free for kids 3 and under. Info, 359-5000, ext. 223.

Food

K4t-burlingtonlead1012.indd 1

Butter Making: See October 6.

INFO@

Doll & Me Masquerade Ball: Tots and their tiny, make-believe friends dress up for a fancy luncheon that includes craft projects and a ballet presentation. Benefits the Northern Vermont Ballet Company. Ages 3-12. Church of the Rock, St. Albans, noon-2 & 3-5 p.m. $18. Info, 393-8655.

160 Bank Street Burlington, VT

802.859.0888

Health & Fitness

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & Books

Fall Party: Little ones dress in costume for pumpkin painting, crafts and a visit from the Travelling Storyteller. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 10 a.m.C Free. Info, 524-4643.

M

Halloween Party: Kids are treated to ghostly good fun, spooky stories, a costume contest and other Y games. All ages. Joslin Memorial Library, WaitsCM field, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 496-4205.

Nature & Science

MY

Bird-Monitoring Walk: Fans of feathers bring CY their own binoculars and explore museum property for avian excitement. Best for older children. Pre-CMY register. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, K 8-10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-2167.

Leafcutter Ants: Nature fans examine the secret life of insect fungus farmers during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Sundays for Fledglings: See October 6.

Vermont Tech Jam: See October 26. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Mixed Media Drop-In: See October 6.

28 SUNDAY, P. 42

FARMHOUSE KIDS

's KIDS,

FARMHOUSE

Wholesome, local, farm fresh food that you can feel good about.

1/2 sized burgers, grilled cheese sandwich, mac-n-cheese and such.

41

Submit your November events by October 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

KIDS VT

Saturday Drama Club: See October 6.

9/26/12 5:34 PM

OCTOBER 2012

Arts

Church Street Trick-or-Treating: See spotlight, pg. 28.

KIDSVT.COM

Vermont Tech Jam: This job fair and tech expo features more than 65 innovative Vermont companies, many of them looking for employees and interns.

Middle- and high-school students interested in science and technology can see robotics and appmaking presentations, and get information on local colleges and exciting careers. Ages 12 and up. Champlain Mill, Winooski, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

Color Mixing: Museum guests blend hues and observe the resulting change. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

k4t-Farmhouse1012.indd 1

9/26/12 12:12 PM

HATHAWAY FARM & CORN MAZE You’re Lost‌ You’re Laughin’‌ You’re LOVIN’ it!

Oct calendar

12 Acre OLYMPIC Maze Punches to Find Bridges & Clues • Text for Trivia Play Area • Mini Maze Livestock Barn & Wagon Rides All Natural Beef Pumpkins • Maple Syrup

27 sATuRdAY (cOntinued)

28 SUNDAY

Admission $10 Adults • $8 Kids!

On weekends have a Hathaway Burger right in the Maze!

Open 10-5 – Closed Tuesdays • Moonlight Madness every Saturday 5-9 pm 741 Prospect Hill Rd, Rutland • hathawayfarm.com • 802.775.2624 k12h-Hathaway1012.indd 1

Like us on Facebook.

Baby & Maternity 9/6/12 4:21 PM

Community

The Haunted Forest: See October 19. 6, 7 & 8 p.m.

(We like you, too!)

Trunk or Treat: Kids in costume take a creative twist on candy gathering at a tailgate party for the whole family. Decorated trunks are ready for spooky visitors; other fun includes an inflatable obstacle course. All ages. Daybreak Community Church, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 338-9118.

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Newborn 101: Moms- and dads-to-be get the skinny on tiny babies and how to enjoy the first three months of parenthood. The class covers tips on setting routines, breast-feeding basics, newborn care, how to handle prolonged crying and participant questions. Preregister. Franklin County Home Health Agency, St. Albans, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $30.

Info, 527-7531.

3/25/11 8:04 AM

Fairs & Festivals

Family Halloween: This not-so-scary celebration features doughnuts on a string, pumpkin carving, Halloween tales, wagon rides and costume parades at noon and 2 p.m. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $3-12; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Haunted Happenings: Klingons, Wookies and Cyclons provide a “Force� field of Halloween fun as kids wear science fiction-focused costumes to trick-or-treat around the museum buildings. All ages. Shelburne Museum, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 985-3346. spooktacular: The park comes alive with costumed capers as kids gather for games, music and dancing, as well as a trick-or-treat parade along Main Street. All ages. Middlebury Green, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 377-3557.

Health & Fitness

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

Freaky 5K: Run for the VYcc: Runners take to the hills for a spooky 5K race through dark forests, open meadows and single-track trails. Shorter run for kids starts at 9:15 a.m. West Monitor Barn, Richmond, 9 a.m.-noon. $35. Info, 434-3969. onion 5K costume Race: See spotlight, pg. 30.

YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: See October 14.

Nature & Science

cells!: Inquisitive eyes compare plant, animal and even their own cheek cells under museum microscopes. Ages 9 and older. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200. creeping colors: See October 13.

29 MONDAY

Arts

imagination studio: See October 8.

42

Kids VT

OctOber 2012 KidsVT.com

Baby & Maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See October 8.

Yoga After Baby: See October 8.

Health & Fitness

Immunization. Power to Protect.

Nature & Science

Let’s Talk About Race: story Hour: See October 12.

30 TUESDAY

Food

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: See October 2.

Kids in the Kitchen: Pumpkin-chocolate-chip cookies: Pureed pumpkins transform into decorated sweet treats in the hands of young cooksin-training. Healthy Living Market and CafĂŠ, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child. Info, 8632569, ext. 1.

Library & Books

creative Tuesdays: See October 2.

Nature & Science

science & stories: Bats: Preschoolers learn that these night-flyers might look a little scary but they are important to have around. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2.

Info, 877-324-6386.

31 WEDNESDAY

Arts

Art for Tots: See October 3.

Baby & Maternity

Pregnancy circle: Pregnant moms check in with open discussion, hear positive birth stories, and practice labor breathing and relaxation. A healthy snack is provided. Preregister Birth Journeys, Essex Junction, 6-7:30 p.m. $5-15 sliding scale.

Info, 324-8809.

Education

social Thinking: See October 3.

Food

cookie decorating: See October 3.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Kids open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Library & Books

LEGo Afternoons: See October 3. may’s music & movement: See October 3. movin’ & Groovin’ costume Party: Tots in cute costumes join Christine as she spins seasonal discs.

Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 865-7216.

NooK Kids APPtivity: See October 3.

Preschool music With Raphael: See October 3.

Trick or Treat at the Library: Ghosts and ghouls of all ages collect candy at the library. Highgate Public Library, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Halloween Party: Little ghouls and bats dress up for treats at the library. Ages birth to 10. Preregister.

Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.

4/23/12 2:20 PM

‘star Wars’ club: Fans of the force share their starfighter fascination with local Star Wars expert Aaron Masi. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

my First Yoga: See October 8.

Halloween crafts & stories: Creative activities get kids into the spirit of a spooktacular event. Ages 2-9. Highgate Public Library, 6 & 6:30 p.m. Free.

Info, 868-3970.

k3V-VtDeptofHealth0512.indd 1

Highgate PJ story Time: See October 13.

Hot mama Workout: See October 4.

Library & Books

Halloween stories: Book lovers dress for bed or in costume and bring a favorite stuffed friend to hear themed tales. All ages. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 355-5417.

Youth media Lab: See October 3.

Nature & Science

Programs for Preschoolers: See October 3. K

Haunted Happenings at Shelboorne Museum 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, October 28 From Jedis and Klingons to Wookies and Cylons, it’s a sci-fi Halloween party with trick-or-treating and family fun!

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“July was the advertised first time we our sales in Kids VT and n’t ent. We were rc e p 7 8 d se a incre ing ional advertis it d d a y n a g doin a e knew it was w so , e m ti e at th s an r ad. There wa u o f o lt su re direct . iate response d e m im st o alm t y tell that foo ll a re ld u o c u Yo proved.” traffic had im

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MATTHEW THORSEN

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Fall Festivities

Photographer Matthew Thorsen photographed the fun at last month’s Harvest Fest at Shelburne Farms. Many kids visited the KidsVT booth for face-painting by Sean Avram from Hyper Focus Art and families enjoyed fresh corn, candy apples and other fall food as well as the hay-bale maze, live music, performances and hands-on activities.

PHOTOS: MATTHEW THORSEN

KIDSVT.COM OCTOBER 2012 KIDS VT

Are you a friend yet? Check out the more photos on our Facebook page.

45

HANDS-ON ✱ PROJECT

Cabbage-Juice Chemistry YOU DON’T HAVE TO LEAVE your kids’ science

education up to their teachers or after-school-program leaders. There are lots of fun experiments you can do at home to encourage them to develop their skills. This project, for example, uses cabbage juice to teach kids about chemical reactions; we use it as a lesson about acids and bases at the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich.

Cabbage juice is an indicator of pH, and it will reveal whether a chemical is an acid or a base. Cabbage juice turns pink when you add an acid, such as vinegar. It turns blue, or even green, when you add a base, such as baking soda. A chemical reaction occurs when an acid and a base are mixed together. ˜ Don’t worry, the actual chemistry isn’t that important to explain. The most valuable part of this activity is being able to experiment and see the results. Making and recording observations and putting

Materials • half of a red cabbage • knife • pot • boiling water

items into di° erent categories — pink or blue —˜are key scientifi c skills.

Rather than tell the kids what results to expect, ask them at each step to explain what they think will happen. Use simple questions and prompts, such as: “What do you think? Let’s try. What do you notice?˜Show me. Can we do that again?” They’ll enjoy the process — and that’s the point.

— AMY VANDERKOOI, Science Educator/Program Manager Montshire Museum of Science

• empty ice-cube tray or two cups or bowls • turkey baster, eye-dropper or spoon • vinegar • baking soda

Instructions 1. Prepare the cabbage juice: Chop the cabbage into a few pieces. Pour boiling water on the chopped leaves and let steep for 15 minutes or so, then pour off the purple liquid. The liquid is what you need for the experiment.

2. Use a turkey baster to fill a couple of wells of the ice-cube tray about halfway with cabbage juice. You can use bowls or cups instead, but the ice-cube tray will allow you to do a bunch of different experiments side by side.

3. Add a splash of vinegar to one of the wells that has cabbage juice in it. What happens?

4. Add a little baking soda to another of the wells.

What happens?

KIDSVT.COM

5. Try more experiments: Pour cabbage juice into another empty well and add vinegar and baking soda. Do you observe anything happening besides a color change?

Can you make the cabbage juice turn purple again? Can you turn the blue cabbage juice pink?

Taking it further:

46

KIDS VT

OCTOBER 2012

Test different items from the fridge and pantry, such as juices, dishwashing soap, milk, baking powder and soda. Keep a list of what you test and your results.

Looking for more activities like this one?

Check out pbskids.org/zoom/activities/sci/.

Share your fun craft ideas with us! Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.

Stage Crafting

MATTHEW THORSEN

HABITAT

BY ANA RUESINK

I

n the Burlington backyard of the Bailly-Hall family, “play structure” takes on a whole new meaning. This whimsical, wooden creation is a castle, swing set and outdoor theater — all in one. Jacques Bailly built it for his daughter Isidora, 10, and 8-yearold son, J.P. On Friday nights from mud season until the snow flies, Bailly and his wife, Leslyn Hall host lively outdoor gatherings for neighbors and friends. The adults sip wine while their kids swing, scramble up and down the castle towers and act out fantasies involving artisan guilds and epic battles. On special occasions, the swings give way to a wooden stage and heavy quilted curtain.

Most recently, Isidora’s Brownie troop performed a Greek comedy in pursuit of their theater badges.

Jacques designed the structure based on a tower he admired at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. He wanted to inspire his kids’ imagination and also get the wiggles out. Bravo!

• Wisteria vines add a natural look • Wooden marquee announces “Now Playing: Quarry Kids Theater” • Wooden stage lifts up for storage when theater season is over

• Backstage sandbox • Rubber tire mulch under the swings saves knees from scraping • Sink in the south tower, acquired at auction, great for preshow picnic hand-washing

“Habitat” is a new feature celebrating places where Vermont families live and play. Got a sweet space you’d like us to see? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

802.349.9943 fkorganize@yahoo.com

KIDS VT

felicia kahl

OCTOBER 2012

organizer consultant

KIDSVT.COM

reuse | rethink | revitalize | home | business | events

47

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KIDS VT

Feel free to use additional pages!

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OCTOBER 2012

KIDSVT.COM

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We’ll pick the most creative entries in four age categories: 4 and under, 5-9, 10-14, and 15 and up. The winners will receive three free books, along with a $25 gift certificate to Crow Books. We’ll print some of the winning entries in the November issue. Deadline to enter is October 20.

COLORING CONTEST! Send us your work of art by October 15 for an opportunity to win $25, sponsored by TD Bank.

Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8, and (3) ages 9-12. The best artwork will be featured on kidsvt.com, and winners will be named in the November issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

Title _______________________________________ Artist _____________________________________ Age _______________________________________ Town _____________________________________ Email _____________________________________ Phone _____________________________________

KIDSVT.COM OCTOBER 2012 KIDS VT

49

HANDS-ON

ANSWERS P. 51

PUZZLE PAGE

Birthday Club Sponsored by

Winners get gift certificates to Spare Time in Colchester, one of Vermont’s premier bowling centers.

Congratulations to these October Birthday Club winners:

GRAND PRIZE WINNER Nick lives in Colchester and turns 9 in October. He loves to swim.

He wins a $50 gift certificate to Spare Time.

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.

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SOPHIE lives in Johnson

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Making The Cut

A secular dad wrestles with the circumcision decision

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To cut it off without good cause seemed a willy-nilly decision.

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51

YOU HAVE AN AX-I-DENT

KIDS VT

“Use Your Words” is a monthly essay in which writers reflect on parenting and childhood.

Got a story to share? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

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OCTOBER 2012

why do it? Stacy began to see circumcision less as a preventative measure, like the smallpox vaccine, and more as a form of bodily mutilation.

I was slower to abandon my past prejudices. My cognitive dissonance was fueled by a begrudging acceptance that the science at the time showed no measurable gains from circumcision. Indeed, even the 2012 AAP policy falls short of recommending it. It suggests — rightly, I think — that such decisions are best left to the family.

My faith in science also suggested that biological structures don’t evolve haphazardly. If the prehistoric Johnson evolved wearing a hoodie, presumably nature thought it needed one. To cut it off without good cause seemed — excuse the pun — a willy-nilly decision.

Still, despite all rational evidence to the contrary, I couldn’t get over my unease with not circumcising. That was partly fueled by the knowledge that my father, who died in 2004 and never met his grandchildren, would have been disappointed I’m not raising my kids Jewish. And there’s no act more tangibly symbolic of a father’s commitment to raise a Jewish son than to cut the flesh of his loins. Thus, the origins of Jewish humor.

For a time, Stacy and I considered holding a symbolic, vegetarian bris, during which no meat would be cut. We even joked about serving kosher hotdogs with the tips removed just to keep things light.

Then one night I realized why I was so fraught about foreskins. My discomfort wasn’t driven by the weight of a 5000-year-old tradition, a concern over locker-room bullies or a fear that my dad was scowling from beyond the grave. It was a visceral reaction grounded in primitive and irrational fears, reinforced throughout childhood, that the foreskin is unclean, unhygienic. Not “one of us.” That realization made me really uncomfortable.

On May 8, 2012, Ezra Matthew, who bears my father’s name, was born. Several days later, he was unceremoniously circumcised in the maternity ward. Ironically, Stacy was there but I wasn’t, as our obstetrician did the procedure when she found a few minutes between deliveries.

In the end, we were swayed not by emotional, cultural or religious arguments, but by recent medical research we found convincing: All other things being equal, the risks associated with circumcision are minimal compared to the benefits in terms of reducing STD transmission, urinary tract infections and penile cancer.

The only “blessing” came from our obstetrician, who, at the end of the procedure, gave Ezra his first penile pointer: “Use it well.”

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IN AUGUST, the American Academy of Pediatrics changed its neutral stance on circumcision to one suggesting that the health benefits outweigh the risks. I learned of the policy change from a doctor several months earlier, shortly before my son was due. Suddenly, my anguished decision over whether to circumcise was once again up for debate.

I say “my” decision though obviously it was a mutual decision with my wife, Stacy. But for me, the question cut closer to the bone.

My own circumcision was preordained. My parents were Reform Jews from Brooklyn. The bris, or religious circumcision, was a traditional affair, performed when I was 8 days old, with Manischewitz sweet wine for anesthetic, and bagels, lox and whitefish for the relatives. According to family lore, when the mohel, or ritual circumciser, went in for the cut, I peed on the rabbi. In that moment, I established myself as a tribal member and a social commentator.

I started thinking about what I would want for my own son during Stacy’s first pregnancy, when we were told, erroneously, that our daughter was a boy.

Since I’m neither an observant Jew nor married to one, a bris was never in the cards. Thus began my soul-searching and rationalizations, trying to jive my Jewish upbringing and childhood prejudices with a modern worldview informed more by science than Scripture.

Initially, Stacy and I were on the same page, preferring a tailored penis. We grew up in the 1970s, when the vast majority of American-born males, Jews and gentiles, were routinely clipped, ostensibly for health reasons. (Today, the U.S. circumcision rate is closer to 50 percent.)

In the ’70s, public school health classes warned us against LSD and angel-dust use, not cultural insensitivity.

Those one or two unlucky lads with intact foreskins were teased mercilessly in gym class. Now that Stacy and I were becoming parents, we cringed at the idea of our son suffering through childhood nicknamed “turtle” or “anteater.”

That is, until we explored the issue further. Today, most circumcisions are done not for health or even religious reasons, but cultural ones. In short, dads want their sons to look like them in the shower. At least in Stacy’s opinion, that was not a sufficient reason for performing minor surgery on an infant.

So she switched sides. Her decision was both rational and maternal: If half the pee-pees in our son’s school will look like his, no one will make a big deal about it. More importantly, if our obstetrician saw no medical benefit,

Sam’s 3.1 Mile Corn Maze COME & HAVE SOME FUN! Labor ON DayOUT Weekend Thru October

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Oct. 19th-20th & Oct. 25th-28th — $12.50

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9/27/12 12:02 PM