August 2021 | Back to School + Summer Events and much more...

august 2021 | mtparent.com

BACK TO SCHOOL + SUMMER EVENTS AND MORE...

August 2021

FRIDAY 2

Bozeman’s BBQ & Blues Night August 27th 5pm-8pm

SATURDAY

BOZEMAN, MT

BBQ Cook-Off Competition August 28th 1pm-4pm

Proceeds benefit the Gallatin Valley YMCA

BBQ Pro Demo Day & Samples

Learn competitive strokes from certified coaches, including our Olympic gold medalist head coach, Hans Dersch!

WHEN: Aug, 30th - Sept, 2nd From 4:00 - 5:00 PM WHAT:

Splash camp is for kids who love to swim and want to grow their swimming skills!

WHO: Kids ages 5 and over WHERE: Bozeman Swim Center

HOW TO SIGN UP REGISTER AT: bozemanbarracudas.org COST: 4 days - $80 per participant

PLUS! GOODIE FILLED SWAG BAGS FOR CAMP PARTICIPANTS

*Participants must be able to complete one length of floatation devices*3 august 2021

and backstroke without ::freestyle calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

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BOzeman FARMERS’ MARKET Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m.

BOGERT FARMERS’ MARKET

June 15 September 7, 2021 June 7-September 27, 2015

East Side Tuesdays, of Lindley Park in Bozeman 5-8pm

Bogert Produce.

Park’s Pavilion, South Church Avenue, & Bozeman Fresh Food.

Art. Music More Fresh Produce. Food Vendors. Arts. Family Activities & Live Music

Volunteer, Sponsor and Vendor Info: bozemanfarmersmarket@gmail.com Volunteer, Sponsor or vendor info: bogertfarmersmarket.org

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August 2021

Life’s a garden…dig it!

PLAN NOW FOR HEALTHY, WATER-SAVING TURF BY BOOSTING YOUR SOIL LIFE.

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august 2021

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check out our

website!

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for more information, resources and fun things to do with your kids this spring visit

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: LEIGH RIPLEY BLAIR FJESETH EVAN CENTER JIM BISHOP SARA SILVA KRISI JACOBS ASHLEY HALL SARAH SNIDER ACHIEVE MONTANA KIMBERLY BLAKER LORI JO BERG NICHOLE ANDRIOLO ZOEY MAHONEY REBECCA COLNAR * Montana Parent strives to provide accurate information and entertainment to our readers.

Some content may be based on opinion of the author and may not represent our views. We want all voices to be heard, so we all can be educated on both sides of important issues.

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August 2021

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Back to School Skincare

Skincare, Skin Checks, Sun Protection, Aesthetic Treatments º Skin Consultations º Acne Treatment Post-Acne Pigmentation Treatment º Forever Clear BBL®

Treatment of Rashes, Warts, Eczema and Skin Conditions

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august 2021

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2233 WEST KAGY BLVD., SUITE 2 | BOZEMAN, MT | 406.586.7873

PHOTO ADP STUDIO

august 2021

Back to school

What’s Up? Montana

30

Keeping it Real 14

What’s Up? Big Sky 32

Choosing the Right School Option for Your Child 16

What’s Up? Bozeman 34

Supporting Teens with Their Educational Choice 18

What’s Up? Helena 38

The Struggle to Find Quality Child Care 20

What’s Up? West Yellowstone 39

XY Learning Center 21 Transitioning from Remote Learning to In-Person 22

Columns

STEM & STEAM Field Trips 23

Parents’ Role in Teen Screen Addiction 40

Powerful Ways to Support a Child 24

Raising a Politically Active Student 41

Considering Boot Camp for Your Teen? 26

Zoey’s Recipes for Success 42

Back to School Germs 27

Family Life on the Ranch 44

Staying Active in the New School Year 28

Monthly Giveaway 46

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August 2021

WHERE DREAMS

Begin & Blossom

Fine Classical Ballet Instruciton for All Ages Fall Semester Begins September 7th

for more information Visit montanaballet.org Call 406.582.8702

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august 2021

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To say I’m headed into this new school year with both hope and trepidation would be fair. Last year was challenging for not just

Every mother is unique— so is every delivery.

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one of my kids, but all three – and for very different reasons. I know I’m not alone here. It would take one hand to list the number of parents I’ve talked to who found the 2020-21 school year to be one of the best.

Last year was unique for every child. Some families found themselves with a student who thrived by learning online. Others saw their student struggling whether they were in school or online. The collective shock and educational, social, emotional and physical impacts kids experienced during the last 18 months is ongoing. And truth be told, it will be some time before we know just how severely our kids were impacted and to what degree.

We know the elementary grades are particularly important—outcomes from these pivotal years are a powerful predictor of achievement in subsequent school years and success later in life. While high school students are more prepared to learn independently, they are socially driven and were deprived of that at a time in their lives when it is so very important to their development.

Whatever your scenario was, I’m sure you learned a few things about your kid last year…and THAT is the silver lining from the 2020-21 school year experience.

Armed with new insight into how my kids operate, I am hopeful I can be more helpful during this new school year. I now know what works for each of my children and what doesn’t. I’ve picked up small cues that signal a downward spiral is headed our way; learned how to better communicate with them; definitely learned when to push, and when I’m pushing too much.

Thankfully, educators also now know more about the impact the pandemic has had on student learning. As much as parents and students have adapted, our teachers and administrators have adjusted tenfold, and at a rapid pace.

They are moving into this school year better equipped to support learning in various models of instruction.

Sit down and take a close look at your own personal experiences from last year. Make a list of pluses and minuses if it helps, and put them to use this year. Kids are resilient, and maybe what they’ve endured since the beginning of the pandemic has made them a stronger generation. Silver linings.

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August 2021

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Pediatrics

Get Care Today!

Our Board Certified Pediatricians care for your child’s primary and urgent care needs at a convenient location with hours to meet your needs as busy parents. You can rest assured that if your child needs a higher level of care, our pediatric specialists collaborate to keep you close to home whenever possible.

Courtney Handlin, DO

Sheila Idzerda, MD

Claire Kenamore, MD

Pediatrics

For more information or to make an appointment, call (406) 522-KIDS (5437).

Same day, virtual and after hour appointments available. Mon - Fri: 8 am - 6 pm, Sat: 8:30 - 11:30 am

To talk to a registered nurse about health questions after hours, call HealthLine at (406) 255-8400 or 1-800-252-1246, available 24/7. billingsclinic.com/bozeman

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Pediatric Services: � Primary care for babies, kids, & teens � Preventive care, including vaccinations � Routine well-child checkups � School, daycare, camp, and sports physicals � Illness and injury care � Management of chronic and complicated conditions � Follow-up care for childhood cancer survivors Pediatric Specialty Care, in Bozeman: � Pediatric cardiology � Pediatric endocrinology � Pediatric pulmonology � Pediatric neurology � Pediatric urology

august 2021

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The AAP and AAPD recommend scheduling your child's first dental appointment by their 1st birthday.

­

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August 2021

It’s that time again...

PHOTO ADP STUDIO

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august 2021

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Keeping it Real WRITTEN BY BLAIR FJESETH

I would love to remake “School’s Out” by Alice Cooper featuring a gaggle of moms singing a cover version called “School’s Back.” I can picture us moms rolling up to school in our minivans and SUVs, high-waisted jeans, messy buns, sipping vanilla lattes (with sugarfree syrup, of course), a pep in our step as we escort our babies off to their new classrooms. Just thinking about my kids going back to school after a hot summer preceded by 15 months of COVID-times makes me want to aggressively fist pump into the air.

Gone are the hybrid “school from home” days, zoom classes, maskwearing, washing and quarantine periods that derailed already hectic schedules. Not to mention the three summer months of shuttling to and from camps and clubs, sports, water parks, regular parks, birthday parties and campouts.

If being overly excited to send my kids away for seven hours is wrong, I don’t want to be right. I love my kids more than the air in my lungs, but we’ve had a lot of together-time lately, and I have a sneaking suspicion they are just as excited as I am to get back into the swing of school.

And while starting another school year is a painful reminder that our precious babies are growing up too quickly, that pain quickly fades with the reminder that back to school means routines, decent bedtimes and not worrying if your kids are reading and writing enough during the day. There should be no mom guilt or mom shame

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August 2021

for being relieved that our children are back in school full-time with educated, trained, experienced teachers who know what they are doing.

I’ll admit, I was a complete wreck at my eldest’s first kindergarten dropoff in 2019. In fact, I wrote a very long column about checking in on my friends with kindergartners because we were probably all in the fetal position, ugly crying in the back of our minivans. I feel more confident and excited for this new chapter. My middle child is finally starting kindergarten and my oldest son will be in second grade for what I hope will be his first normal and complete school year. I like to think I’ve transitioned from the “they are leaving me and growing up” mindset to the “look at how amazing they have become and how quickly they learn new things” phase, and that is a great feeling.

We get so few “first-day” drop-offs with our children; even fewer where they allow us to dote on them. No matter how you are feeling about back to school, it is normal and acceptable – no mom shame here. Just remember to savor the moment, take all the photos, cry if you need to, hug them tight, feel good that they are learning, making friends and becoming incredible humans capable of anything.

You got this, mama!

Blair Fjeseth is a working professional and proud Montana mom. You can reach her at blairparker. inc@gmail.com. Follow her Instagram @blair_mt for more adventures.

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Kid’s COOKING CAMPS & CLASSES After School Treats September 22, 4-6:45 p.m. | $100

Made from scratch Family style meals

OCT

Tuesday & Thursday delivery

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Breakfast | A-la carte | Bakery Pick-N-Choose menu

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NOV

Subscription meal plans

Spooktacular Halloween Treats October 23, 1-4 p.m. | $100 Fall Pies November 17, 4-6:45 p.m. | $100

DEC

New offerings weekly

All About Pumpkin October 13, 4-6:45 p.m. | $100

Holiday Baking December 11, 1-4 p.m. | $100

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august 2021

15

Choosing

the Right elementary and middle School Option for Your Child WRITTEN BY EVAN CENTER | PHOTO ADP STUDIO

When the COVID-19 numbers in Gallatin County began to spike last October, and with cut-offs and numbers from epidemiologist Michael Osterholm ringing in my ears, I pulled my daughter out of in-person school and enrolled in her in Bozeman Online School (BOS). Two days a week with a long-term substitute were not cutting it for her academically and her father and I were struggling with the lack of structure to help guide her the other three days a week. I didn’t know what online school would be like, but it had to be better than that. And as it turned out, it was. Her teachers (I’m looking at you Ms. Higgins, Ms. Pitts and Ms. Barefield) were phenomenal. And the extra time that my fourth grader had to complete her work—really complete her work—allowed her, for the first time in her elementary career, to actually write, read and work (and sometimes struggle) through assignments from start to finish. It ended up being an incredibly fruitful year for her academically. But it was challenging socially. She is an extrovert and as an only child of divorced parents, she often found herself quite lonely. These are the factors (academic, social and safety) that parents find themselves weighing yet again as we approach another school year with COVID-19 still impacting our community. As a counselor and parent, I’ve been asked by clients and friends how to know what the right school option is for their child. Beyond the health-risk considerations that are very personal to each family, here is how I am thinking about this question. I divide the decision-making factors into three categories: Learning, Social and Parent needs.

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August 2021

How does your child learn?

Some kids are very independent learners, but many are not. Does your child thrive when he has close relationships with his teachers? Does she like to spend more time on projects than the structure of traditional public school allows? This type of learner is best served by a fantastic teacher and more time to work on assignments (e.g. a less rigid structure to the day). Programs like BOS, a pod with a private teacher, or private schools like Summit and Headwaters, where individualized learning and teacher-student mentorship are pillars of the program, are great for this kind of student. Or maybe your student desires the structure and pace of in-person school, the independent schools I mentioned plus any of our public in-person options are worth considering if your child is at loose ends with too much time or without peers to influence pace and motivation.

What are your child’s social needs?

If your student already gets their social needs met through an intensive after school activity, being home during the day might not be as much of a loss. But if your offspring is super-social, even that might not meet their needs. Social development is possibly more important than academics in elementary and middle school. As we gear up for another school year and are reminded yet again that even birthday parties for our kids can be spreader events, figuring out how to keep them connected is critical.1 If you can handle the periodic quarantines that happen from attending public school, your child might be able to get their social needs met more fully by being in school, even masked, than they will with BOS or home school.

RIDGE KIDS HAS SOMETHING FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES! PLAYZONE FUN WHILE PARENTS WORK OUT

SWIMMING LESSONS

What are your needs as a parent?

While I’ve listed this one last, I would say that ultimately, your needs as a parent trump the social and academic considerations above. If your child is too young to be alone and you must be at the office, or if having your student home full time is driving you nuts, then it simply isn’t going to work to keep them home and you’ll need to look at the in-person or pod options. What is possible for you as a parent?

What are your child’s needs for supervision and hand-holding through assignments? Even if you have the time and flexibility to be home with your student, is becoming their tutor going to drive a wedge in your relationship with them?

As we all learned over the last year plus, being home full time with those we love most is sometimes very difficult. Your relationship with your child is the foundation of everything else and while being home for BOS, a pod or home school certainly strengthens some parent-child dynamics, it can be a huge stressor for others.

There is not a single school in Bozeman that is the perfect fit for every student or situation.

Education is not one-size-fits all, even when we are not in an ongoing public health crisis.

Whaley CM, Cantor J, Pera M. Assessing the Association Between Social Gatherings and COVID-19 Risk Using Birthdays.

JAMA Internal Medicine. June 2021 Evan Center, LCPC is the clinical director of Center Counseling, a group practice in Bozeman specializing in supporting families, parents, couples, teens and individuals.

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august 2021

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Supporting Teens with

their Educational Choice WRITTEN BY JIM BISHOP

1. How are decisions around education made in your family?

Clarifying your family’s decision-making process will allow for a more spacious exploration of the educational options that are out there, and will help to manage expectations and minimize disappointment.

Will the parents in your family ultimately be the decision makers? Will your teen have complete discretion to decide where—and whether—he or she wants to attend school? Or will it be more of a collaboration?

2. What accommodations does your student need?

In my administrative role at Bozeman Field School, I speak often with families who are deciding what educational experience is best for their high school student. The process can be overwhelming. Today, more than at any time in recent memory, there are abundant options for teenagers. In addition to the excellent public high schools in the Bozeman area, there is also a charter high school, several private parochial schools and an independent school (Bozeman Field School). The homeschooling community has an array of small-group opportunities and online options open to them. Families may consider boarding schools or therapeutic programs, depending on the needs of their student.

To make matters more complex, teenagers today face a unique set of challenges.

The social isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on young people.

Anxiety and depression have risen sharply, and many students have struggled academically. While remote and hybrid classrooms have worked well for some students, others have found the experience alienating. The proliferation of online schooling options has been attractive in some ways because of the flexibility they provide, but this trend has come at the cost of the social and emotional learning that is necessary for students’ growth and maturation.

Understandably, many Montana parents are finding today’s educational landscape daunting. Having spoken with families of widely differing backgrounds, and having seen the way the education world has been shifting over the past couple of years, I want to offer some guidance for families. I’ve organized my thinking around five questions: 18

August 2021

Some students may be most successful at a school with a student disabilities coordinator, where a 504 plan or IEP (individual educational plan) can be executed and implemented by trained staff. Public schools tend to have the most resources for such situations. Other students, including those with diagnosed learning disabilities, may do well in a small group or independent school setting where their needed accommodations (front-row seating, small class sizes, lots of one-onone attention) are embedded in the school culture. Some students function well with minimal oversight, while others benefit from systems of accountability and close relationships with their teachers.

3. How can we move past “surviving” and get to “thriving”?

This is an important consideration as we transition out of the pandemic and toward some approximation of normalcy. Most teens have been functionally—and at times literally—hunkered down for the past year

and a half. Depending on their situation, they may have spent weeks apart from their friends, attended classes in whatever they wore to bed, skipped classes because they were physically and emotionally exhausted and spent way too many hours staring at screens. At this juncture, what do they need? Do they need exercise? More opportunities to socialize with their friends?

More time outside, away from their phones and laptops? What educational approach will serve them best now?

4. How do schools set up students for success after high school?

One development resulting from the pandemic has been in the arena of college admissions. Because students were unable to take the ACT or SAT due to canceled testing dates, a number of colleges waived their standardized testing requirements for admission. Some observers think this trend could be permanent. Colleges are now reviewing applications with more attention given to admissions essays and unique life experience (work, volunteering, internships, travel, etc.). After high school, many students are taking gap years or considering other options beyond college.

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5. How will your family afford the option we’ve chosen?

Public schools, of course, are taxpayer funded, and are therefore the obvious choice for many families. Homeschooling can be done on a budget, depending on how travel, textbooks, materials and supplemental activities factor into your family’s plans.

While the sticker price of an independent school can be disconcerting, I have found that families applying for financial aid are pleasantly surprised by how affordable tuition can be.

While the educational landscape is as complex and intimidating as it has ever been, these are exciting and innovative times. Today’s teens, more so than any previous generation, view themselves as architects of their own educational experience, and are demanding more of their schools, teachers and parents. Personally, I feel very fortunate to be in a position to help meet that challenge. I encourage parents to embrace the opportunity.

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Jim Bishop is the Head of School Bozeman Field School. :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

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The Struggle to

Find Quality Child Care for Montana’s Families WRITTEN BY SARA SILVA

XY LEARNING CENTER IS NOW ENROLLING KIDS AGES 2 TO 5 At XY Learning Center, our mission is to provide exceptional care through a safe, responsive and nurturing environment that meets the needs of each child and family.

Whether you call it a Zoom Boom or Land Grab, Montana’s population is quickly rising.

As more people flock to the Treasure State, families across Montana face increasing expenses. Pre-pandemic Montana was already struggling with an unsustainable child care system that saw families paying an average of $8,400 to $9,500 in child care costs per child each year, which is double the in-state tuition at public four-year universities of $3,386 per year (Montana Budget and Policy Center).

Considering that affordable child care is less than 10% of a family’s income, this is a major expense for most families. The rapid population growth throughout the state has created new barriers to accessing and affording child care. Higher housing costs, for example, have increased the financial burden on families and pushed many into more rural areas (23% of Montana’s families face a high housing cost burden according to Montana KIDS COUNT).

These rural areas are even less equipped to meet Montana’s burgeoning child care needs with six counties having no licensed child care options at all (Carter, Fallon, Golden Valley, Petroleum, Treasure and Wilbaux).

Available Child Care

The numbers can be daunting for families trying to find care for their children. Montana’s child care system currently has the capacity for only 48% of kids with working parents. This equals one licensed child care slot for every three children from birth to 6-years-old.

When we break this figure down further among communities, we see even more clearly the challenges faced by families.

According to Montana KIDS COUNT:

» Child cares in rural counties have slots for 23% of children

202 South Willson | 406.577.2554 WWW.XYLEARNINGCENTER.COM

» Child cares in moderately rural counties have slots for 38% of children

» Child cares in the least rural counties have slots for 43% of children

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August 2021

Families who are looking for infant and toddler care not only face the highest expenses but also the least availability of openings.

Child Care Workforce

Looking at the other side of this equation, child care workers are paid an average of just $10.99 per hour (Montana Budget and Policy Center) – less than the starting wage at many chain retailers or restaurants. With housing costs jumping $195,000 and rents increasing by 58% in the past year in Gallatin County, many early childhood professionals are being forced to leave the area. Recently, Child Care Connections has received an increasing number of reports from child care programs struggling to find staff. Multiple programs are decreasing the number of child care spaces available due to the lack of staffing. In turn, this further exarcerbates the shortage of available child care. The increased dearth in care directly impacts workforce participation and child safety as parents are forced to choose between leaving their children in unsafe or illegal care or going to work.

A Better Tomorrow for Montana’s Children and Families

Relief may be on the horizon as legislators tackle this issue. Temporary relief in child care costs has been offered to families by increasing the income limits for the Best Beginnings Scholarship; but more support is needed to increase the sustainability of Montana’s child care system. Lend your choice on behalf of children and families by contacting your legislator.

Written by Sara Silva, STARS Coach at Child Care Connections, where their work is all about quality child care. Visit online at cccmontana.org or call 406-587-7786 for information on services for families and child care providers.

XY Learning Center ENROLLING NEW STUDENTS NOW

The area’s newest licensed child care center, XY Learning Center, is located in downtown Bozeman and currently enrolling children ages 2 to 5. Starting in September 2021, XYLC will be adding a drop-in child care service for children ages 2 and older.

New learning opportunities will be offered each day by a highly qualified team of early childhood professionals who are dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing and responsive environment. XYLC is structured to meet children where they are and build upon what they are capable of, allowing them to explore, develop friendships and grow into lifelong learners.

Visit www.xylearningcenter.com to learn more about XYLC’s services.

montana parent

After school & PIR DAY

Activities

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august 2021

21

Transitioning from

Remote Learning

to

WRITTEN BY KRISTI JACOBS

The 2020-21 school year was unlike anything previously experienced in education. Schools had to react quickly and provide a variety of educational options for students so they could remain safe from the risks of COVID-19.

There are many students across the state who spent 15 months receiving their education exclusively online, not walking into a classroom once during that time. The return to in-person instruction in the fall for the 2021-22 school year will undoubtedly be an interesting one, with increased levels of both excitement and trepidation for them and their parents alike.

I would like to share what parents and students should expect for the coming school year, based upon my experience and the experiences of my teacher colleagues as we watched our students adjust from online to in-person learning. I will also provide some tips for you to make your child’s transition back to school easier. Of course, every child is different and will need varying amounts of support.

First, it is important that each child knows he or she is not alone in this journey. Remind your student that every child may be navigating the hallways of a school for the first time in 18 months. You might work to find a buddy for your child – a classmate to spend some time with before the first day of school so they have a familiar friend with whom they can start the year.

It is also important to build a relationship with your child’s teacher and the school beforehand.

Go play on the school’s playground over the summer and have your child explore the structure of the school and let him become comfortable there. Be sure to attend any orientation or sneak peek visit your school offers.

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August 2021

In-Person

school day. You can help your child by working to get on a schedule a few weeks before school Within a typical in-person starts. Have him work to get up and get out school setting, children hear of the door for an outing in the morning. This will help break the habit of just crawling out of feedback and correction bed and opening the computer or being able from many adults. This to step away and take a break whenever she has not been the case with wants one.

most online schooling. My Within a typical in-person school setting, colleagues and I have seen children hear feedback and correction from many adults. This has not been the case with that this is one of the largest most online schooling. My colleagues and adjustments in the return to I have seen that this is one of the largest in-person instruction. adjustments in the return to in-person instruction. Have a discussion with your child before school starts about how the role of a teacher is to help and guide. He needs to be You can also email your child’s teacher before open to making mistakes and correcting them. school starts and be honest about your online If your child feels like the teacher is “picking experience during the past year-and-a-half. on them” it may just be that, for the first time How was it? Did your child thrive? Did they in 18 months, they are getting more feedback really struggle doing things independently? on their work than they are used to receiving.

Were they engaged in one subject more than Back the teacher on this one, and help your another? Let your teacher know how it went, child understand that this is how they will learn both the good and the bad, so they are prepared and improve. for what your child’s educational experience has been. Teachers know that parents have done Overall, have a positive attitude about their best during the pandemic and it has been returning to school, and focus on all of the hard. This honesty will benefit both you and good things. At the end of the day, let your your child in the transition. child share openly about what occurred and

do not quiz her incessantly about how it went.

The days can be long and exhausting the first Children will share when they are ready. As few weeks as your child moves back into the I stated above, this is going to be a lot to rhythm of returning to school. You may find process and relearn – allow your child the your kiddo struggling with their stamina. This space and time to do that. is OK; school days can be a lot to process.

It is important not to overschedule her with Kristi Jacobs is the Anderson School District Superintendent. activities at the start of the year. Stay focused on getting back into the rhythm of in-person school. The majority of online programs were much shorter than the typical seven-hour

STEM & STEAM Field Trips STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics

Museum of the Rockies

Montana Science Center Chances are you do not need to include a fancy lesson plan with topics in STEAM, as many of these topics can be observed or taught organically through everyday experiences. For example, cooking or baking with your children is a great way to teach concepts in mathematics. You can also make the distinction between measuring cups: liquids versus solids (and that begins a conversation in science on the states of matter).

Do you remember your first time seeing a real dinosaur skeleton?

For many children, visiting Museum of the Rockies’ Siebel Dinosaur Complex is their first experience coming nose-to-nose with iconic dinosaurs such as Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops.

Though this past year “Thank you for letting presented many challenges us come (for) free. My due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this fall MOR favorite part was the Native is bringing back stellar American exhibit because paleontology and historymy great-great-greatbased programs for all ages.

Docent-guided school tours grandma’s picture is in will be resuming, as well as there. I had a great time Sensational Babies, Tours and learned a lot.” for Tots and Homeschool Mondays. In addition, look ~ Sixth-grade student from Burlington Elementary in Billings for brand-new programming geared toward adults and lifelong learners. For teachers or educators looking for resources, an array of Outreach Kits provide a unique opportunity to bring real fossil specimens, telescopes, microscopes and rock and mineral specimens straight from the museum to your home or classroom – that’s right, MOR can send dinosaurs to YOU. Thanks to the Opening Doors for Montana Schoolchildren Fund, MOR is able to provide free museum admission and transportation stipends for school groups from public, private, tribal and homeschools across Montana. Since 2005, they have accommodated more than 50,000 school-aged children at no cost.

MOR understands that introducing kids to dinosaurs, science and Montana history early in their lives is not only enriching but teaches students to think critically and explore new ideas – skills that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

To book a school field trip for fall and explore programs for preKindergarten and up, visit museumoftherockies.org/schools-educators/ field-trips.

For educational resources, visit: museumoftherockies.org/education.

Playing the cloud game with your children while in the car or lying outside engages their sense of creativity in looking for shapes in clouds, but it also provides a perfect opportunity to talk about cloud formation, and the different types of clouds.

A favorite STEAM activity at MSC is called All About Encoding: Braille Bookmarks. Encoding is a great skill to have in the world of Science and Technology. Encoding means to convert information into a coded form. This could be with a code such as binary code, morse code or, in this instance, Braille. This is a skill that professionals within the field of computer sciences, particularly, use daily for their work in areas such as software engineering. Allowing your child to choose which word to encode, and providing them with an array of colors for materials (sequins, or markers) allows them to express themselves artistically too.

For educators and parents looking for a guided lesson in STEAM topics, contact the Montana Science Center. MSC hosts guided field trip opportunities for learners in grades preschool through 12 on a wide array of STEAM topics. Call 406-522-9087 or visit www. montanasciencecenter.org to learn more about these opportunities.

Sarah Snider is a graduate of the Early Childhood Education & Child Services program at Montana State University. She has served as the Program Coordinator for the Montana Science Center for the past two-and-a-half years.

Ashley Hall is the Museum of the Rockies Outreach Program Manager and Dillon Warn, School and Family Program Specialist.

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

23

Supporting Your Senior-Year Student as They Prepare to Apply for College 1. Make a Deadline Checklist:

Congratulations! Your child has just begun their senior year of high school. There will be proms to attend, yearbooks to be signed and senior trips to take. However, before they participate in a single activity, be sure to sit down with your child and make a list of all upcoming priorities for the year. SAT, ACT, college applications, scholarships and financial aid all have deadlines that can creep up quickly. Make sure your child is aware of those deadlines so they can be ready to meet them head-on.

2. Choose Classes and Extracurricular Activities Thoughtfully:

Seven Powerful Ways to Support a Child as They

Prepare for College WRITTEN BY ACHIEVE MONTANA

Have you ever heard the expression, “The days are long, but the years are short”? Your child’s senior year of high school is like this. You are suddenly not sure how it snuck up on you. One moment you are packing a juice box and their favorite teddy bear into their backpack while tearfully dropping them off at kindergarten; the next moment, you realize college admissions forms and testing deadlines are coming at them faster than you can spell out SAT. Sending your child off to college does not begin when you load the family car up with their belongings and hit the road; it starts much sooner than that. If this is your child’s last year of high school and they will be graduating soon, then you know that the clock is ticking. The countdown to graduation is on! And while graduation may seem months away, it is in this moment – before they walk across the stage and receive a diploma – that you learn there are many things you can do to support your child as they prepare to apply for college.

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August 2021

Your child is in the final stretch of high school. They have made it through three years and only have one last year to complete before graduating. Because colleges are aware of your child’s class selections from transcripts, take the opportunity to discuss school courses and activities with your kiddo. The last year of high school is an opportunity to better any curriculum area that may need improving.

It is also your child’s chance to participate in any extracurricular activities they may want reflected on their college applications.

3. Meet with High School Guidance and College Counselors:

Encourage your child to take time throughout the year to meet with both their high school guidance counselor and a college counselor. Counselors are advocates for your child’s success. Full of knowledgeable insights, counselors are informational powerhouses who can help your child chart the best possible path forward once high school ends. College counselors, especially, are adept at the college submissions process and can even help with applications.

4. Choosing a School:

Your child is ready! When it comes to choosing higher education, there are many considerations to keep in mind.

Cost, location, programs offered, financial aid assistance, etc. can all factor into a final decision. With your child, make appointments to tour schools they are

Montana Science Center’s interested in attending. Go with them and ask questions they may not think to discuss. Keep in mind, if you have a college savings account set up for your child, like those offered by Achieve Montana, assets may be used toward the cost of almost any qualified college, university, vocational school or other postsecondary educational institution.

5. Applying for Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships can be either merit-based or financial need-based, and there are many available. The office of financial assistance of the school your child will be attending is a good place for you and your child to start a scholarship search. Applying for financial aid means you and your kiddo will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Good news — if you are a 529 plan saver, Achieve Montana 529 plan account assets will have little to no impact on a student’s ability to qualify for federal financial aid.

science

i n v a r l a c food drinks explosive shows science games fun and

for the

whole family

saturday,

august 28th 2 pm to 7 pm

admission

$15 per person or $50 per family

Outside at the Montana Science Center 2744 W. Main St. in Bozeman

Tickets

at montanasciencecenter.org or 522.9087 Bozeman Real Estate Group

6. Continue Saving

Saving for college doesn’t end when your child heads off for freshman year. You can take advantage of an Achieve Montana account to continue saving for sophomore, junior and senior years. There are so many uses for assets in an Achieve Montana account. Continuing to save will help with financial planning for the rest of your child’s college years.

7. Set Them Up for Success

Finally, applying to college is not just about your child getting into the school of their dreams, it is also about helping them develop positive behaviors. Managing time and money, learning problem-solving skills, identifying how to get help and establishing a support network are all areas in which you can help your child succeed.

As your child prepares to apply to college and eventually leave home to start a new adventure, you may not be packing them a juice box, but you can feel confident that you have been guiding them to this moment their whole lives.

Now is an exciting time! They are taking the next step toward their promising future, and it is their time to fly.

Improving life, work, & sport.

Orthopedic Rehabilitation Sports Medicine Post Concussion Rehabilitation Pre & Post Surgical Rehabilitation bozemanaprs.com

Written by Achieve Montana, a 529 Plan designed to help individuals and families save for college in a tax-advantaged way.

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

25

Considering Boot Camp for Your Troubled Teen?

There May Be Safer, More Effective Options WRITTEN BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

Being a parent isn't easy, especially during the teenage years. While some amount of attitude and rebellion is normal, a teen with at-risk behaviors who is spiraling out of control may need more help than you can provide.

When supporting your teen surpasses your capabilities, you might be desperate to find a solution to help turn your adolescent's life around before it's too late. Boot camps and military school may be the first approach that comes to mind. These programs promise to straighten out difficult kids quickly by using military tactics. But they're not the healthiest option for helping your teen in the long term.

Instead of looking at traditional programs promising to punish teens and stamp out bad behavior, consider alternatives that will support your teen through their struggles and help turn around problematic habits naturally.

Teens have a natural urge to begin distancing themselves from their parents, which can make it difficult for parents to know what to do when they sense their kids needs help.

The Trouble with Boot Camp

The concept behind boot camp is to mimic strict military programs where attendees experience harsh discipline, extreme structure and physical exercise or challenges to wear them down. These programs attempt to force teenagers to respect authority figures by taking a punitive approach with harsh consequences for not following directions.

Boot camps are often run by people without any counseling or psychology background. They use intimidation tactics to punish bad behavior rather than understanding how to support struggling teens effectively. When the focus is on training youth to fear and follow authority figures, this approach can be traumatic for teens whose behaviors stem from mental or emotional distress. Boot camps are also often not regulated. In some cases, boot camp tactics have led to severe abuse and even the death of teens attending them.

Even if the boot camp seems to provide positive outcomes in the context of the camp’s 26

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environment, the changed behavior doesn't necessarily translate when teens return to real life. According to teenbootcamp.org, a website dedicated to educating parents about the risks of boot camps, the recidivism rate for some juvenile boot camps is 80%. Once adolescents go home, it isn't easy to replicate the extremely structured environment. Also, since the underlying issues causing the teen's bad behavior aren't addressed, young people who attend boot camps often fall back into the same patterns. Additionally, instead of automatically translating learned deference to a particular authority into respect for their parents, teens may feel resentful or further alienated from their parents.

Adolescence is an extraordinary time of development; emotionally, physically and neurologically. While teens often long for more autonomy, they are just beginning to learn how to navigate changing social dynamics and family relationships. It’s a time of many contradictions; teens need compassion, guidance and support as much as they need more independence.

Teens begin to explore various aspects of their identity and go through the process of selfdiscovery at the same time that they often just want to “fit in” with their peers.

When parents do not accept the feelings or choices of their children during this process, it can cause anxiety and/or sadness in the adolescent and impede their ability to trust themselves.

What are the alternatives?

Fortunately, many evidence-based programs are available. In these, teens are surrounded by counselors and others who are trained to help young people heal and learn new, healthier patterns of behavior in a supportive environment.

Wilderness Treatment Programs

Wilderness treatment programs, which use the mental health concepts of treatment centers in an outdoor environment, are especially effective at helping teens turn their choices around.

These short-term programs offer many of the benefits of summer camp, but in a structured way that is similar to treatment centers that support and nurture teens who are struggling.

Although your teen may still feel like being sent away is a punishment, the wilderness program environment itself is not punitive. Teens are out in nature, getting healthy physical exercise and engaging in cooperative activities to learn to work with others and gain confidence in themselves. Just being exposed to the outdoors is proven to have a calming effect on anxiety and depression, which are common mental health issues that at-risk teens experience.

Short Term Treatment Centers

Short-term treatment centers remove your teen from a negative environment for more intensive care. They provide adolescents an opportunity to get out of harmful patterns or away from unhealthy social groups that may be contributing to your teen's unhealthy lifestyle.

Treatment centers, as opposed to boot camps, use a counseling approach where trained and certified counselors and support specialists work with teens one-on-one and in groups.

Treatment centers seek to understand and address the cause of problematic behaviors to enact lasting change. Teens may participate in cognitive behavioral therapy where they can talk about the issues they face and learn to recognize and change the resulting, harmful behaviors. Staff focuses on the well-being of the whole person and teaches teens how to take what they are learning and apply it in their daily lives at home.

These centers often group teenagers who are facing the same problems or experiencing similar mental or emotional issues. This offers participants opportunities to share their feelings and experiences in a safe environment and with people who can relate. This can help teens to feel less isolated while providing them a community of peers with whom they can share successes.

Teens sent to a treatment center are more likely to understand that their parents care for them and want to help them because the teens are in a nurturing environment. When the goal is to help young people instead of making them follow orders, the more likely they will be open to change and seeing its benefits.

While boot camps may sometimes be effective at stopping bad choices, this often works only temporarily. It can also come at a high cost to an adolescent’s emotional and physical wellbeing. On the other hand, alternative options, such as wilderness treatment programs and short-term treatment centers, are available.

These programs, particularly short-term treatment centers, aid your teen's personal growth and desire to become a healthy, mentally strong individual who contributes positively to society.

A quick Google search can help you find counselors and treatment centers throughout the state for adolescents and their families. Adrienne Webster, Bozeman Addiction Counselor Licensure Candidate (ACLC), provided the following short list of resources in our area that she personally has first-hand knowledge of and would highly recommend.

Guided Healing Trails works with adults, adolescents and families both in person and via Telehealth. They are based in Missoula but can see clients all over the state.

They offer addiction treatment, anger management and group work as well as individual, couples and family counseling.

They are easy to work with and the staff is compassionate and experienced. They are committed to strengthening and restoring families and individuals. For more information visit their website or call 406540-4120.

Manmade Mentors is based in Bozeman and provides mentorship for adolescents as well as individual and family counseling.

They focus on relationship development and work with youth ages 13 and older.

They offer sessions in a traditional office setting as well as less formal, experiential mentoring packages that are individualized and may include walks or hikes outside.

Big Sky Youth Empowerment is an adolescent mentorship program based in Bozeman. Their mission is to empower teens through outdoor adventures and experiential learning. Activities include skiing, rock climbing, backpacking, whitewater rafting and community service work to name a few. Workshops providing tools for relationship building and life skills training are part of the program as well.

(And they have that half-pipe skate ramp attached to their building in downtown Bozeman).

Other Resources:

» Charlie Health: https://www. charliehealth.com/

» Bridger Peaks Counseling:

https:// www.bozemancounseling.org/

» Alcohol and Drug Services: https:// adsgc.org/

» Youth Dynamics: https://www. youthdynamics.org/

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance lifestyle writer. She also writes content, blog posts and more for businesses in a variety of industries and is an expert in on-page SEO. Find her at kbcreativedigital.com.

Back-toSchool

Germs

WRITTEN BY LORI JO BERG

If the thought of back-to-school germs makes your stomach turn a little bit, I feel you. One of the hardest things about being a parent is not only taking care of one or multiple sick kids – it’s having to do it while you’re down and out too.

…inspiring people of all ages to FLY!

I feel an immense pressure to stay healthy. I’m kind of like the sail on a boat – if it goes down, we’re all going down.

What I’ve learned over the years is to start boosting everyone’s immune system right when school starts and not to wait until after that first cold hits, or the first snow falls.

A lot of folks think our immune system’s job is to prevent us from getting sick. Not only is that unattainable, but our bodies are designed to be exposed to foreign materials (xenogens) and fight them.

Really, the goal is to fight the bug effectively and avoid prolonged sickness. You know what I’m talking about … the cold that never ends and keeps on giving. We’ve all been there, right?

Here are some easy things the whole family can do to support the immune system:

After School Classes Aerial Fitness Mama & Me Teen/Adult Classes Private Lessons

» Avoid Sugar as Much as Possible: I know,

it seems difficult and you’ve heard it a million times. But what if I told you that consuming sugar reduces your immune system by 40% every time you consume it?

» Water Intake: Bacteria and viruses are not

able to settle into your tissues as easily if the cells are hydrated. Aim for half your body weight in ounces per day. It’s simple, cheap and effective.

» Vitamin C Without Added Sugar: Make

this a daily habit and increase the dose (to bowel tolerance) when the very first signs of illness appear.

» Remove Dairy: If your child struggles

with a constant runny nose or seems to get those colds that won’t go away, try removing dairy. Dairy is mucus forming and can be inflammatory for some people.

» D3: Vitamin D is shown to reduce

colds and flu by up to 40% with proper supplementation. It’s hard to get enough Vitamin D during the winter months, so supplementation is absolutely necessary.

Summer Camps Birthday Parties Performances Aerial Bartending The sky is the limit!

Find us online MountainAirDance.org (406) 595-0909

Lori Jo Berg is a Montana native, mother of three, and freelance writer who enjoys writing about the::tougher side of life and &connecting calendars, blog more @ MTPARENT.COM :: with her audience on a deeper level.

august 2021

27

Staying Active

in the New School Year WRITTEN BY NICHOLE ANDRIOLO

Navigating the recommendations of pediatricians, magazine articles and other parents is hard—especially when it comes to guidelines of physical activity and exercise for your child. These recommendations can be confusing to understand and even harder to implement. Hopefully the following information will help you take control of your child’s health and physical wellness.

Benefits of Physical Activity in Children

Physical activity has many benefits, but did you know that exercise has been shown to improve sleep, mental health and academic performance in children?

The 2019 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey showed that students with higher grades are more likely to engage in physical activity for at least 60 minutes a day and/or play on at least one sports team. Higher physical activity and physical fitness levels are also associated with improved concentration and memory among students, according to the CDC. With regard to sleep, research done by the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Auckland showed that sedentary children take longer to fall asleep than active children. Active children also slept longer than their sedentary peers, especially when they participated in more vigorous physical activity.

Finally, physical activity is known to improve mental health and behavior in children.

According to the American Psychological Association, young people who exercise have lower levels of depression, stress, psychological distress and higher levels of positive self-image, life satisfaction and psychological well-being.

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Children also demonstrate better behavior regulation when they participate in physical activity. The same can also be said for those children who have autism, ADHD, ADD, anxiety and/or depression.

Guidelines to Physical Activity in Children

The CDC recommends that children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 participate in 60 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity each day. Examples of moderate intensity activities include brisk walking, dancing and biking. Your child should still be able to talk throughout these activities, but you might notice them breathing harder.

Vigorous intensity activities include hiking, running, jumping rope and swimming laps. Your child could start sweating and not being able to talk as much without getting out of breath.

Physical activity should fall into one of three categories: aerobic activities, musclestrengthening activities and bone-strengthening activities. Aerobic activities include those that make you breathe fast and make your heart beat faster. Muscle-strengthening activities can include climbing, playing on the monkey bars or throwing a ball. Bone-strengthening activities are those that increase impact through your bones, like jumping rope, running or playing hop-scotch.

It is important to realize that oftentimes the P.E. classes and allotted recess time that are part of your child’s schedule don’t meet these recommendations on their own. This is why it is important that you encourage physical activity outside of school hours.

Introducing More Exercise into Your Child’s Daily Routine

Luckily, many of the activities that kids already do can be easily modified to help meet the recommended physical activity guidelines.

If your child likes to play board games, you can have them perform an exercise at predetermined intervals throughout the game.

For example, every time somebody rolls a six, all players have to jump up and down 10 times.

Setting alarms for movement breaks every 2030 minutes is also a great way to encourage physical activity if your child enjoys more sedentary play activities or spends a lot of time on the computer or tablet for homework or remote learning. These movement breaks can be anything from walking around the house for 5 minutes to performing a series of exercises.

Here are some other options to introduce exercise into your child’s daily routine:

Ç Simon Says Ç Indoor obstacle courses Ç Dance parties Ç Hide and Seek Ç After-school sports programs

The Moral of the Story: Get your kids moving!

Children benefit in more ways than one when they participate in physical activity. Encourage your kids to participate in sports and active play and, when possible, join them.

Nichole Andriolo is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with APRS Physical Therapy in Bozeman. She enjoys providing neurologic and orthopedic rehabilitation services to members of the community who need help getting back to the activities they love.

A WHAT'S UP?

Montana FALL FAMILY EVENTS

Please visit mtparent.com/calendars for the latest family events happening in Southwest montana!

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING. :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

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Montana

Gardiner Brewfest 2021 August 21, 2021 The 2021 Gardiner Brewfest will take place Saturday, August 21 from 3 to 10 p.m. in Arch Park. This family-friendly event will feature three bands, two wineries, 12 breweries, 10 artists and three food trucks, all of which are local to the area. The festival will also have an interactive kids’ village, which will feature a presentation by Montana Outdoor Science School (MOSS). Tickets are $25; kids and nondrinkers are $10. Designated drivers will receive swag bags from Park County’s DUI Task Force.

The Brewfest is a fundraiser for Gardiner Snoopy Cooperative Preschool. Snoopy School is a 501c3 nonprofit that educates the youngest members of the Mammoth/Gardiner community. Snoopy School’s mission is “to provide an environment in which children between 3 and 5 years of age or kindergartenage may generate a strong sense of selfesteem as well as respect and appreciation for the world in which they live, while preparing for kindergarten.” By supporting Gardiner Brewfest, you directly support Mammoth/ Gardiner’s littlest learners.

Follow us on Instagram @gardinerbrewfest for more details.

Shakespeare in the Parks Montana Shakespeare in the Parks 2021 season will feature performances of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Cymbeline.

Touring for its 49th year, the Montana Shakespeare in the Parks company will travel almost 7,000 miles putting on productions of the famed English playwright’s works throughout Montana and neighboring states. All performances are offered free.

Below is a sampling of the 2021 tour locations, for the full schedule visit www. shakespeareintheparks.org.

BELGRADE

» September 6, Cymbeline, 3:30 p.m., Lewis & Clark Park

BOZEMAN

» August 6, Bozeman Sweet Pea Festival, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 3:45 p.m., Lindley Park

» August 8, Bozeman Sweet Pea Festival, Cymbeline, 5 p.m., Lindley Park » September 3, Bozeman Family/Grad Housing, Cymbeline, 3:30 p.m., Family/ Grad Housing

BUTTE

» September 2, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 6 p.m., Stodden Park

CHICO

» August 9, Chico Hot Springs, Cymbeline, 6 p.m., Main Lawn

GARDINER

» August 14, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 6 p.m., Arch Park

HELENA

» August 2, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 6 p.m., Pioneer Park » August 3, Cymbeline, 6 p.m., Pioneer Park

LIVINGSTON

» September 4, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 6 p.m., Shane Center parking lot

MANHATTAN

» September 5, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 5 p.m., Altenbrand Park

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August 2021

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING.

Montana

southwest montana

farmers Markets If you live here or you’re visiting southwest Montana via RV or staying in a VRBO, stopping at a local farmers market is a MUST for stocking your fridge and pantry.

Big Sky

The Big Sky Farmers Market features more than 90 vendors and is held every Wednesday through August, from 5-8 p.m. at the Fire Pit Park in the Town Center.

Gallatin Valley Farmers Market is held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays through September 11 in the Haynes Pavilion at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds. Everything sold at the market is homemade or homegrown by local farmers, ranchers, growers, artists and crafters, including fruits, veggies, flowers, frozen meats and prepared foods. To learn more, visit www. gallatinvalleyfarmersmarket.com.

Helena

Helena’s Farmers Market, which is the longest running farmers market in the state, celebrates its 48th birthday this summer. Drawing more than 350 Montana vendors rotating during the season, the market is held throughout the summer at two locations: Saturdays through October 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fuller Avenue; and Tuesdays through September 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the East Helena City Hall parking lot.

The Capitol Square Farmers Market is held just behind the Capitol Building every Tuesday, through September 28, from 2:30-6:30 p.m.

Bozeman

Families and friends gather at the Bozeman Farmers Market (formerly Bogert Farmers Market) to socialize, support local vendors and share every Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. through September 7. Held on the east side of Lindley Park in between Cypress and Buttonwood Avenues, the market hosts vendors from around the area bringing vegetables, arts, crafts, music, food and much more. For more information, visit www.bozemanfarmersmarket.org.

Butte

The 2021 Butte Uptown Farmers Market is held in Uptown Butte every Saturday through October 2, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The 2021 market will be located on West Park Street between Gamer's Cafe and the Imagine Butte Resource Center in the Phoenix Building. To learn more, visit www.mainstreetbutte.org.

Livingston

The Livingston Farmers Market is held on the banks of the Yellowstone River at Miles Band Shell Park every Wednesday through September 15, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy fresh produce, meat, plants, herbs, gardening workshops, "Youth Booths" and more.

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING. :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

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Hike Big Sky Tiny Treks August 7 and 20, 2021 The Big Sky Community Organization offers hikes for children ages 0-5 and parents looking to connect with other families in the community who have young kiddos. All trails are accessible by stroller. However, baby wraps and/or backpack carries are recommended for ease. Families are encouraged to travel at their own pace and to stop and explore along the way. Registration is required!

Visit www.bscomt.org/hike-big-sky/ or call 406993-2112.

Saturday, August 7: Ousel Falls Meet at 10 a.m. at the trailhead The Ousel Falls trail descends into the South Fork ravine to beautiful Ousel Falls and has several memorable photo opportunities along the way.

Friday, August 20: South Fork Loop Meet at 10 a.m. at the trailhead Short but oh-so-sweet, this pleasant, forested 1-mile loop takes you through the woods and along the South Fork of the Gallatin River.

Music in the Mountains Music in the Mountains continues this month with more concerts: The Bravo! Big Sky Festival August 13-14 and the fifth annual Mountainfilm in Big Sky event September 10-12.

CONCERT SCHEDULE: August 12: Dammit Lauren August 13: Bravo! Big Sky: Angella Ahn and Friends (WMPAC) August 14: Bravo! Big Sky: Futureman/Silverman + Big Sky Festival String Orchestra August 19: Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs August 26: Erica Falls September 2: The Waiting September 9: Pinky and the Floyd These family-friendly events are held at Center Stage in Len Hill Park, one of the best outdoor venues in the state, right in the heart of Big Sky. The park opens at 6 p.m. each week, and there will be food and beverage vendors (including alcohol) and an arts activity tent for kids. Music typically starts at 7:15 p.m., but please check the Arts Council website for more details on these events.

Considering the current COVID situation, the concerts will be presented in a way that fits into any restrictions that may be in place. Like many things related to the pandemic, the need to be flexible and ready to adapt to Gallatin County guidelines is important.

Concert attendees will not be required to wear a mask, but the Arts Council asks that you please respect those who choose to do so. The CDC recommends that those who have not received the vaccine continue to wear masks and advises anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms to avoid crowds and stay home.

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING.

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Visi

11 a.t with m. - Sa 2 p. nta m.

FREE FAMILY EVENT

Bazaar HOSTED BY

montana parent

November 28, 2021 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

GranTree Inn, Bozeman Vendors register online at www.mtparent.com/holiday-bazaar For those who create unique, local products and those operating home-based businesses, Montana Parent welcomes back the Holiday Bazaar — a holiday shopping event catered to people with small, creative endeavors.

Support one another and our community by purchasing booth space for the Montana Parent Holiday Bazaar.

Cost is $125 per booth | Questions? Contact cora@mtparent.com :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

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Join the cutting edge, non-invasive, scientifically proven program to help

your child feel calmer, less reactive and more resilient

WHILE improving sleep!

Music on Main For kids who struggle with sleep and/or show signs of: Ç Sensory processing disorder Ç Difficulty listening and/or self-regulating Ç Challenging behaviors Ç Food sensitivities Ç Stomach pain Ç Chronic ear infections Ç Dislike of noisy environments

p r o fess io na l p e diat r ic sl e e p co n s u l t i ng Text

406-551-4083 or for a

email

myra@heartsdreams.com

Free Qualification Call

Music on Main summer concert series will continue on Main Street in downtown Bozeman between Rouse Avenue and Black Avenue.

The fun will last from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday evenings, August 5 and 12.

Bring the kids to the Coca Cola “Kid’s Zone” on South Bozeman Avenue for carnival games, hula hooping and more. Grab a bite to eat from one of our many rotating food vendors, stop by some of our local nonprofit booths providing an array of family activities, step into a few of the downtown stores that stay open late, and of course enjoy outstanding live music from popular local and nationally recognized bands. Also, enjoy the county’s Water Bottle Fill Station parked each week on the side of First Security Bank. Remember to bring your reusable water bottle and stay hydrated for free with Bozeman’s crisp mountain water!

The music begins at 7 p.m. and lasts until 8:30 p.m.

LINEUP: August 5 - Vella August 12 – The RT’s

Sweet Pea Festival August 6-8, 2021 The Bozeman Sweet Pea Festival will be held August 6-8, 2021. This three-day festival will feature a juried art show, chalk on the walk, flower parade, flower show, painting workshop, music, theater, dance, kids’ activities, a beer garden, food and drink vendors and much more.

Hours are Friday from 3 to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

This year’s festival capacity is being slightly reduced for the health and safety of festivalgoers. PLEASE purchase wristbands early to ensure admission. You can preorder your wristband online now at the festival website: www.sweetpeafestival.square.site/ for pickup at the Sweet Pea office through August 5. Wristbands are also available at local outlets.

New this year, children 12 and under are free and no wristband is needed for admission.

Wristbands will not be sold at entry points, nor will pickup of preordered wristbands be available at the gates. Remaining wristbands will only be available for purchase at the festival’s new main box office found in front of the library during the festival. Prices go up if purchased after August 5.

For more information or to purchase wristbands please contact the Sweet Pea Festival office at 406-586-4003 or visit the festival website at www.sweetpeafestival.org.

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING. 34

August 2021

Nichole Croteau-Baker - Body Products Marty Podolsky - Sculpture Jo Newhall - Ceramics Dante Gambardella - Ceramics Brittany Martishius - Woodworking & Furniture James Rendle - Instruments

Summer SLAM festival One Day Only: August 7, 2021 SLAM will host pods of Montana artists from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at THREE different locations on Saturday, August 7: Bogert Park, Story Mansion Park and the Emerson Lawn. Each location will feature Montana artists, food trucks and ongoing live art demonstrations.

ARTISTS AT BOGERT PARK Sara Swartz - Glass April Marie Hale - Jewelry Deana Albers - Jewelry Callie Miller - Jewelry Sharie Williamson - Textiles Heather Campbell - Textiles Jeff Keller - 2-D Mimi Matsuda - 2-D Liz Chappie Zoller - 2-D Bryan Mackie - Sculpture Denise McKay - Ceramics Lisa Ernst - Ceramics Joe Graham - Woodworking & Furniture Chris Ottey - Woodworking & Furniture

ARTISTS AT THE EMERSON LAWN Sunny Jaye - Glass Sarah Light - Textiles Morena Garcia - Jewelry Susan Hayes - Jewelry Jennifer McCullough - Jewelry Christine Pentecost - Photography Kara Tripp - 2-D Averi Smith - 2-D Kyle Forsythe - 2-D Kelsey Clarke - Sculpture Marianne Robilotta - Ceramics Bozeman Community Kiln - Ceramics James Muskovich - Woodworking & Furniture Chizuko Olson - Woodworking & Furniture

21st annual Cruisin’ on Main Car Show August 15, 2021 The Downtown Bozeman Association and Cancer Support Community are happy to present the 21st annual Cruisin’ on Main Car Show. Since 2001, the Downtown Bozeman Association has hosted this car show in historic downtown Bozeman. It has become a premier, statewide event celebrating classic cars, trucks and motorcycles. This event supports Cancer Support Community (CSC) and works to raise awareness of the support offered to all people affected by cancer.

ARTISTS AT STORY MANSION PARK Katie Sisum - Glass Matt Saporito - Leather Bill Mendoza - Jewelry Alison Sweeney - Jewelry Bill Mendoza - Jewelry Sarah Medieros - 2-D Courtney Wilky - 2-D Allison Throop - 2-D Chris Turbuck - 2-D EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING. :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

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The Montana Pitmaster Classic August 27 & 28, 2021 The Montana Pitmaster Classic is a nonprofit, two-day community event supporting Gallatin Valley YMCA and sharing exceptional barbeque, live music, demonstrations, classes and a shot at the Montana Pitmaster Classic Grand Champion.

This event is a Kansas City BBQ Society sanctioned competition where Kenyon Noble Lumber & Hardware of Bozeman will host 30 professional and amateur contestants from Montana, Western U.S. and Canada. All these Pitmasters will be competing for the Montana State BBQ Championship in the categories of chicken, ribs, pork and brisket. The overall highest scorer in all categories will become the Grand Master of the tournament and state champion, which will make them eligible for the Kansas City Royal – one of the biggest barbeque competitions in the world.

Friday, August 27 from 5-8 p.m.

Bozeman’s BBQ and Blues night will feature most of the competition teams serving a variety of specialty barbecued foods at their cooking stations, accompanied by live blues music from Montana’s Original Blues Artist, Andre Floyd.

Saturday, August 28 from 1-4 p.m.

BBQ Pro Demo Day and the Official State BBQ Championship will feature plenty of barbecued food sampling and grilling demonstrations from professionals at Big Green Egg, Trager Wood Fired Grills and Weber Grills.

This year, Traeger Wood Fired Grills is bringing in a special guest, World Champion Pitmaster Doug Scheiding (Traeger Pro and Rocket Scientist), who will be delivering in-person demos and classes where he will share tips and tricks for top-notch wood fired barbecue.

After the competition, stick around until 4:30 p.m. and see who will be crowned the Montana Pitmaster Classic Grand Champion at the trophy ceremony.

The Montana Pitmaster Classic is hosted by Kenyon Noble Lumber & Hardware, located at 1243 W. Oak St. in Bozeman. A large portion of the revenue generated from this two-day event will go directly to the community and the Gallatin Valley YMCA. 36

August 2021

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING.

Montana Science Center

Science Carnival August 28, 2021 Montana Science Center invites families to experience science up close through activities, experiments and on-stage shows at their Science Carnival on August 28. Bozeman companies, MSU student groups and local professionals will host booths like boat racing, giant bubbles, catapults and flying science. The afternoon’s festivities will also include food trucks, live music and an online auction to raise money for science education in our community. Tickets for the Science Carnival are available on the MSC website at www.MontanaScienceCenter.org. The Science Carnival will run from 2 to 7 p.m., with staggered entry times to keep crowd numbers manageable and safe.

Mornings & Afternoons (8 Weeks)

As a local nonprofit providing unique, hands-on experiences for families with kids of all ages, MSC relies on supporters to help provide access to science and technology discovery through hands-on exhibits and experiences.

Starts Mid-Sept.

+ Make-ups

MIXED AGE (0-5)

REQUEST A FREE CLASS

Send @MusicTexts to 81010 $100 Off - Sibling Discounts

MSC has been welcoming guests five days a week all summer, and invites families to take part in weekly programs like STEAM Saturdays, Parent Meet-Up and Open Air STEAM. Through programs like the high-tech makerspace, STEAMlab, and the Women in STEM Series, MSC has invited local professionals and talent to collaborate with students learning science through field trips, day camps, summer camps, preschool science and Family Science Days.

BABIES FREE <12 mo. with Sibling Flexible MAKE-UP Opportunities

Sing-Dance-Rhythm-Drum

The Science Carnival will be hosted at the Science Center, 2744 W. Main St.

Class Schedules Online!

MusicTogetherBozeman.com

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING.

KateBryan2000@gmail.com PHONE: or TEXT: 406-570-2839

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

37

helena

NOW ON EXHIBIT AT

D helena Revive at Five Alive at Five is back this summer, with just a slight name change. Revive at Five will run every Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m., with music starting at 5:30 p.m.

On exhibit June 12 - September 2021

Sponsored by:

Explorationworks 995 Carousel Way | Helena, MT 406.457.1800 explorationworks.org

Local food offerings will include: Adventure Dogs (hot dogs), The Big Dill (American fare), Cheddar’s (grilled cheese), Eat Greekish (Greek fare), Helena Mountain Berry Bowls (Acai berry bowls), The Missionary Food Truck (Mexican fare), Rockstar BBQ (barbeque) and Tropical Sno (Hawaiian shaved ice).

AUGUST CONCERTS WILL BE HELD AT WOMEN’S PARK. THE LINEUP IS AS FOLLOWS: August 4: Shakewell August 11: Sweetgrass Blues Band August 18: Goldy Vox August 25: Big Ska Country

Oktoberfest Block Party Keep your calendars open for September 25, 2021, from 4 to 8 p.m.

Downtown Helena will be shutting down Jackson Street to celebrate Oktoberfest as a community.

Expect some great local food trucks, amazing local beer and a stellar local band to round out this block party. Oh, and did we mention the stein-holding and costume contests?

Stay tuned to downtownhelena.com/events for more information.

(406) 388-4988 mosaicrehabmt.com

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING. 38

August 2021

H west

Yellowstone

Farmers Market on the Museum Lawn Every Thursday from 5-8 p.m.

Music

in the

Park

"NO HOUR OF LIFE IS WASTED THAT IS SPENT IN THE SADDLE." -Winston Churchill

August 6 and September 4, 2021 The Music in the Park summer concert series features regional and local talent. Held August 6 and September 4, these concerts are a great opportunity to spend a summer evening outdoors. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and come to City Park for live music, a barbecue and plenty of outdoor space for kids to romp in the grass. Admission is free.

K Dedicated Rider Program K Life Skill Development Workshop K Speed/Rodeo Events K English/Western Riding K General Horsemanship

Learn more about camps, clinics and events at

cedarridgeequine.com

cedar ridge equine

Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo August 2-7, 10-14 & 18-21, 2021 The Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo is held 7 miles west of West Yellowstone and the park entrance on Targhee Pass Highway (Hwy. 20), 175 Oldroyd Rd. Admission fees vary by age and event.

All performances begin at 7 p.m. and often sell out, so it is advisable to buy tickets ahead of time (www.yellowstonerodeo.com)

West Yellowstone Rod Run & Car Show

horsemanship camps, clinics & lessons Owner/Trainer Amy Prechter email cedarridgeequines@gmail.com phone 406-282-3355

August 7, 2021 Hundreds of street rods from all over the U.S. show up at the West Yellowstone Rod Run for various runs and competitions and the highlight of the weekend, the Parade of Rods, on Saturday along Canyon Street. The Show and Shine held at City Park is another favorite of attendees – see Woodys, delivery vans and fancy cars with even fancier hood ornaments. Also offered is a barbecue dinner, ice cream social, plenty of live entertainment and raffles. Admission is free.

T H R I V E AT S C H O O L Making the transition into the new school year smoother.

• Child Advancement Project (CAP) Mentoring for kids in grades K-12

• Girls on the Run® (GOTR)

Running program for 3rd-5th grade girls

• Let Me Run

Running program for 4th-8th grade boys

• Parent Liaison

Building a bridge between home and school

Find out more today!

A L LT H R I V E . O R G | ( 4 0 6 ) 5 8 7 - 3 8 4 0

EVENT INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE VISIT EVENT WEBSITES BEFORE ATTENDING. :: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

39

Parents’ Role in Teen Screen Addiction

Written by Evan Center Recently, a parent of a middle schooler told me that her amazing daughter who loved reading and spending time with family had turned into an addict. She had become irritable, angry and reclusive. She no longer read. She didn’t want to spend time with family. Her sleep was off. And she’d taken to screaming at her parents. No, this wasn’t hormones. And it wasn’t her “just being a teen.” This was addiction. And much to the dismay of the mother, it was an addiction she herself had unleashed on her daughter just months before.

It is important for parents of tweens and teens to understand that the adolescent brain is wired to learn. This is why they can learn a new sport or instrument, why they can absorb AP Biology facts and why they question everything their parents say. What any of us learns in high school stays with us into adulthood – and that includes study habits, exercise practices, how to manage anxiety, how to let off steam and have fun, even what music to listen to. During adolescence the prefrontal cortex is still in the process of developing executive functioning skills including the ability to think ahead, plan and work through steps to complete something, or choose a path to avoid negative long-term consequences despite possible immediate social consequences. With this sponge-like ability to absorb new patterns and habits, teens are particularly susceptible to addiction, socially driven decision making and impulsive choices.

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On some level, parents already know this.

We don’t hand our teen a bottle of vodka and suggest they just go at it. We scaffold learning to drive by staying in the car with them, rather than simply handing over the keys to a sports car when they turn 16. And yet we often forget that the sleek communication device that many of us parents have become dependent on is designed to grab and keep our attention.

We hand our teen last year’s model when we upgrade and cross our fingers that it will keep them connected to peers (in a positive way) and not lead them down a path of forgoing sleep in favor of YouTube, Snapchat, watching porn or opening them up to becoming vulnerable to cyber bullying. And yet this is the equivalent of handing a kid with a learner’s permit and a still developing pre-frontal cortex the keys to last year’s Porsche and hoping it goes OK (spoiler: it won’t).

App and phone designers know that engagement is the goal. And they have thrown all the money, expertise and technology they can over the last decade at learning how to get, and keep, smartphone users’ attention. As an adult, parents have the (slight) advantage of executive functioning skills to help them regulate their phone use. Teens don’t have that going for them. So, when I hear from a parent that they cannot take the smartphone away from their teen because they will throw a fit or even threaten suicide, I recognize that we

not only have a problem, but a problem that cannot be solved by any one parent alone.

Teens are, by their nature, oriented toward their peers. What this means is that when “all the other kids” are communicating via Snapchat, taking away a smartphone can be social murder.

While as a parent and counselor, I can say that this is not the end of the world and your teen will get through it, it is in fact very, very difficult for a teen. But what if parents banded together to commit to scaffolding the learning for their teens as a community? Programs like “Wait Until 8th” have sought to help parents band together and commit to having their children learn appropriate phone use on nonsmartphones first before jumping into the deep end with their parent’s hand-me-down iPhone.

When parents stick together, they can create a social norm that is conducive to developing healthy minds and healthy habits that will stick with children into adulthood. Bozeman, like many other affluent communities, has a smartphone problem. And it is not going to get better until parents start that group chat and downgrade their children’s phones… together.

Evan Center, LCPC is the clinical director of Center Counseling, a group practice in Bozeman specializing in supporting families, parents, couples, teens and individuals. She is also co-founder of Bozeman Field School, where the students’ phones get dropped off to the front office during the school day so 9-12th graders can focus on learning and face-to-face engagement.

An Open Letter to Parents Raising a Politically Active Student WRITTEN BY BROOKE BOTHNER

I’ve always wondered why and when taboo topics became forbidden – topics including sex, drugs, abuse, violent crime… and even politics.

America’s political scene may be crazy, but is it really on par with issues that threaten to physically harm kids? We need to talk about and address the “elephant in the room,” so to speak, with our children.

These days it can feel as though discussing politics in a social context is a big no-no. And sure, maybe for the sake of one conversation, that is a helpful rule of thumb; however, I argue that for the sake of our democracy we need to sacrifice peaceful discussions for productive dialogue. For one thing, we can’t exactly make any progress on issues we never broach. But an even larger issue looms: When we avoid a topic to be polite, we actually teach kids by implication that politics and being active and engaged in our democratic system is somehow wrong or socially unacceptable.

This past year I took a psychology class. One of my biggest takeaways was that we as humans, especially kids, like to emulate what others are doing. If we model the behavior of ignoring politics in polite society, we may be grooming the next generation to perpetually skirt the issues that define our time rather than giving kids the tools to face them head on.

I like to think of political engagement as a language. It takes time, guidance and practice to learn a new language—and it’s much easier to learn while you’re young. The same thing is true for fluency in political dialogue and participation. The earlier we include children, the better and more fluent they will become later in life.

It’s no wonder our political system is a mess.

I believe the fact that a political conversation could ruin Thanksgiving dinner is not actually insight into the divisive politics of our time.

Rather, it’s insight into our inability to effectively discuss meaningful issues without feeling offended or wronged. This is a life skill, people.

I’m not going to tell you how to raise the perfect, politically active gem. What I will tell you is how my family has integrated politics into our daily conversations; moreover, why I am better off for it.

Politics are a very normalized topic of conversation at our dinner table. For me, that was the very critical first step. Hearing people I respect discuss and maybe disagree about what is going on in our country and our world modeled effective political discourse. When I know something about the topic, or have an opinion, I am encouraged to share. My opinion

won’t be glorified, though, it will be challenged, and I am expected to either defend or modify it.

This helps me distinguish between two important things: my opinion and myself. By challenging my opinion, no one is accusing me of being a bad person—they are helping my interpretation of the world gain more depth and complexity.

Finally, my family asks me to teach them about topics I am learning about in school or through independent research. There is no better way to validate somebody’s confidence (which every teenager craves) and point out flaws in logic and gaps in knowledge without ever saying a word.

As a result of these normalized and productive political conversations, I feel comfortable and capable of talking about tough topics (not just politics!) in any situation. I am very grateful that my family gave me the gift of political fluency, and I wish the same for every other member of my generation.

Brooke Bothner is a political enthusiast heading into her senior year at Bozeman High School. When she’s not writing, you can find her out on the trails or curled up with a book and some tea.

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

41

REGULAR COLUMN

Zoey’s RECIPES

FOR SUCCESS: Tr Tips,

icks & Shortcuts

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

&

IN THE KITCHEN

WRITTEN BY ZOEY MAHONEY

- 10 sprigs cilantro, chopped - 1 cup cooked protein (chickpeas, lentils, tofu, fish, chicken, pork, ground beef) - 12 rice paper spring roll wrappers Peanut Sauce Ingredients: -⅓ cup creamy peanut butter (or Sun Butter) -¼ cup hot water -2 Tablespoons soy sauce -2 Tablespoons honey -2 Tablespoons lime juice

Just like that, we’re almost back to school.

As we push forward into this new year, we do so with a little more hope, a little more social interaction and a lot of need for quick and healthy school lunches. There are things that we can do to build up our immune system and start the school year off with the best chance of fighting off those inevitable germs. The secret is to eat every color of the rainbow.

That’s it! Each color of the vegetable rainbow represents a different vitamin that will help keep your kids healthy and able to fight off those bugs a little easier. My favorite makeahead rainbow dish for lunch are spring rolls with Thai peanut sauce – they’re delicious, nutritious, and very fun to make.

Supplies: -Cutting board and knife -Whisk/fork -Small and large mixing bowls -Measuring cups -Measuring spoons

a Tasty Recipe SPRING ROLLS Serving Size: 6 servings - 2 rolls per serving These spring rolls are guaranteed to brighten anyone’s day. There’s nothing better than opening your lunchbox and seeing a rainbow spring roll staring back at you. Using rice paper allows all the beautiful raw colors to shine through so you can see exactly what you’re eating. These spring rolls keep really well in the fridge, so make a full week’s worth and store them in an airtight container for seven to 10 days.

Ingredients: -3 ounces thin rice noodles, cooked - ½ cup thinly sliced lettuce (cabbage, spinach, romaine) -2 carrots, grated - 2 cups ready to eat vegetables (such as tomato, carrots, radish, cucumber, bell pepper, green onion, red onion, avocado) - 10 basil leaves, chopped

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August 2021

Directions: - Chop all the ingredients before starting to roll. I like to slice them into thin strips, like matchsticks - Finely dice herbs - Prepare a bowl with warm water and lay one rice paper at a time in the water for 20-30 seconds, or until soft. Be careful to not let the rice paper get too soft - Lay the softened rice paper on a cutting board. Place noodles, veggies, herbs and proteins in the center being careful not to overfill - To roll, start by folding the sides over the filling. With the edge closest to you, roll the wrapper up and over the filling and keep rolling until it is completely closed - In a separate smaller bowl, combine the peanut butter, water, soy sauce, honey and lime juice and mix well - Serve spring rolls with dipping sauce and enjoy

up

How many local ingredients can you use?

g ro rinort g” e f e ofsupp Caf

w y no use Coz

ho e n- “Th i an

suggestions for sourcing We are in the prime month for getting local produce in Gallatin County. There are two farmers markets to choose from: Bogert Farmers Market on Tuesday evenings from 5-8 p.m. at Lindley Park and Gallatin County Farmers Market on Saturday mornings from 9 a.m.-noon at Gallatin County Fairgrounds.

Grocery stores around the valley like Heebs, Town and Country, Rosauers and the Co-op carry produce and other food items from all over Montana. A lot of farms host markets right on their farm. You can stop by Gallatin Valley Botanical at Rocky Creek Farm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and shop your favorite produce as well as pick your own strawberries, raspberries and aronia berries. On Fridays you can drive out to Three Hearts Farm between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to shop for honey, flowers, syrup, eggs and more. August is also the perfect time to start harvesting squash and tomatoes from your own backyard gardens – make sure to check your own garden before heading to the grocery store.

A Parent and Kid Collaboration Tip Do you know what I’ve learned in the past three years as the culinary instructor for Gallatin Valley Farm to School? When you bring the word “rainbow” into a dish, kids are going to be so excited to eat it! In fact, I often make a homework assignment out of the concept by asking families to try and eat a fruit or vegetable from every color of the rainbow. It’s a fun way to get a little competitive and get your kids to

really think about what foods they’re eating.

There is also nothing more fun for kids than getting their hands dirty in the kitchen. Put them in charge of making their own spring rolls for the week and I’m sure you’ll see some pretty cool creations that your kiddos can be proud of.

An Enviro-friendly Sustainability Tip

Comprehensive Therapy Services for Independence and Growth ✦ Occupational and Physical Therapy ✦ Speech and Language Therapy ✦ Breastfeeding and Nutrition Services A warm and comfortable environment serving: Infants, Children and Women 300 N Willson Ave Suite #2005, Bozeman

www.thecozynestmt.net

406-587-2755

Let’s talk about composting. The United States wastes roughly 108 billion pounds of food each year. We’ve got to do better! There are many options for getting rid of food waste in ways that don’t require a landfill. First, buying in bulk is a very effective way to grocery shop; however, make sure you have a way to keep MONTANA the ingredients you buy fresh until the day you use them. Second, I always recommend planning for four to five homemade meals per week and then eating leftovers for the other two or three days, that way you don’t end up with seven days’ worth of leftovers and no days NEED to eat them. Now, I know it can be difficult SOMEONE to get through all the food in the fridge but TO TALK TO? luckily there are ways to solve that problem.

Curbside composting is the easiest and cleanest WHAT WE DO: If you are experiencing way to get rid of food waste and luckily there LISTEN WITHOUT JUDGEMENT emotions such as anxiety, are two companies, Happy Trash Can and YES OFFER EMOTIONAL SUPPORT depression, stress, sadness, Compost, that provide weekly curbside food COMFORT, CONSOLE or fear, we are here to listen. scrap pickup for a small fee. You can even get Montana Crisis Recovery is a COVID-19 specific Crisis a share of the compost for free in the spring to Call Center. Call a Counselor now! We are here to listen. put in your garden! By composting, you are not CALL (877) 503-0833 OR VISIT only reducing the amount of garbage that goes montanacrisisrecovery.com to the landfill, you’re putting the forgotten food HOURS OF OPERATION: 10 AM-10 PM DAILY in your fridge to good use.

FREE COVID-19 TALK LINE

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please contact (800) 273-TALK or (800) 273-8255. You can also text “MT” to 741741

Zoey Mahoney is the Culinary Instructor with Gallatin Valley Farm to School and is completing degrees in Dietetics and Sustainable Food Systems from Montana State University. Zoey enjoys spending her days adventuring with her husband and building their greenhouse/chicken coop.

:: calendars, blog & more @ MTPARENT.COM ::

august 2021

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family Life

on the Ranch

Sage DuBois Photography

Agriculture Provides nourishing setting for blended families WRITTEN BY REBECCA COLNAR PHOTOS BY SAGE DUBOIS PHOTOGRAPHY AND CANDACE WEEDA STROBBE

Blended families are continually becoming commonplace, and agriculture provides an encouraging environment for families learning to spend time together. That’s what Candace Weeda Strobbe learned when she married a rancher from Cascade, MT, who already had a daughter. Candace was raised on a diversified farm (cattle, corn, soybeans, hay) in southern Iowa and received two undergraduate degrees in agricultural communications/journalism and agricultural economics from Kansas State University. After exploring the corporate agriculture industry, Candace discovered her heart was back in rural America. So, she moved to South Texas to earn an advanced degree at the King Ranch Institute (Texas) for Ranch Management. Then Candace headed north to Montana for a job interview and instead of a 44

August 2021

ranch management gig, she found her future husband, local rancher Chet Strobbe.

“That was 2018 and I essentially went from one border to the other,” said Candace. “Now I’m near Cascade where we lease/manage a ranch, own our own cows, take in yearlings and have a custom haying business.”

When she married Chet, she gained a daughter, Royce, who is now 11. “People focus on moms, dads and grandparents, but being a stepparent is a whole different ball of wax, and provides a unique challenge. You’re tasked with essentially fostering a relationship with a child who is not your blood, but whom you love dearly. Bonus parents as I like to call us, as a whole, don’t get a lot of praise or appreciation. There is a lot

of negativity and misplaced judgement, but I constantly try to push that aside. Ultimately what matters is connecting in a loving, meaningful way with the child.”

Fortunately, Royce loves the ranch. Although Chet and Candace work seven days a week, when Royce is there the couple strives for a balance of work and play. “We have a lot of cattle on feed in the winter months, so we just can’t take off for the weekend to go ski and leave the cattle. Having animals to care for teaches responsibility at a young age, and it’s not all fun and games,” said Candace.

Candace learned from her rural upbringing how to get creative for fun. “For example, after we feed our cattle in the winter, sometimes we

Photos by Candace Weeda Strobbe

“ranch ski” (pull a skier with our four-wheeler) or go sledding. In summer months, we’ll take innertubes down to float in the irrigation ditch. It’s important to make fun memories.

For us, it’s not about getting our nails done or going to the mall, but appreciating the simple things in life. It is important to teach kids we don’t have to be fancy, spend a bunch of money or go somewhere special in order to have good, old-fashioned fun.”

The “new mom” admits the great thing about raising kids in an agriculture setting is the time spent outdoors with animals. “We parent very differently than modern society. Ranch kids aren’t sitting on their phones or staring at a computer screen all day. Hands down the best quality time we have as a family is

when we are off the grid with no cell reception, immersed in nature with our horses, dogs and cattle. We’re old-school, and so the ranching and rural lifestyle is raising kids in a meaningful and nourishing way.”

sit stagnant with no animal impact.”

Along with decreasing the threat of fire, Candace explains that cattle take low-quality forages and upcycle those grasses to human food and other products.

Candace promotes agriculture and caring for the land. “Grazing animals have been a part of the landscape forever. Animals are here to eat, fertilize, trample the land and move on.

Even though there aren’t huge grazing herds of bison and other wild animals everywhere today, it’s important we (ranchers) mimic nature with forage being grown and grazed off. When that doesn’t happen, we risk having massive wildfires because there is a heavy amount of fuel load (dry grasses) that hasn’t been eaten.

Rangelands are, in general, less healthy if they

“The superpower of cows is taking crummy grass and upcycling that into protein-packed beef. Cattle were recyclers before recycling was cool. We are passionate about quality livestock and taking care of the land, and when it’s done correctly, those two practices go hand in hand.”

Rebecca Colnar is Director of Public Relations for Montana Farm Bureau and a freelance writer from Custer, Montana.

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win ENTER TO

MONTHLY

∂

$90

Full Year Family Pass to Montana Science center

GIVEAWAY AUGUST

2021

How to enter:

Look for this post on the Montana Parent Facebook page starting August 1.

1. Like the post and Tag one friend

2. Follow @mtparent on Facebook (if you don't already!)

2. Follow @MontanaScienceCenter

Enter to win a Full Year Family Membership to Montana Science Center ($90 value)!

Good for unlimited science discovery through play for all kids and adults in one household plus one caregiver.

on Facebook too!

Other info:

Winner will be chosen at random and announced September 1. No purchase necessary.

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August 2021

For more information about Montana Science Center, please visit www.montanasciencecenter.org

NON-GMO INGREDIENTS • 100% NATURAL NOTHING ARTIFICIAL • SMALL BATCH QUALITY

WHEATMONTANA.COM • 800-535-2798 •

• Montana Born & Bread

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Here from the start.

I’m here to help your child thrive from birth to adolescence, fostering health and wellness through all of life’s adventures.

Dr. Bill Allen

Bozeman Health Pediatrics Call 414-4900 today to schedule a same-day appointment!

Belgrade 206 Alaska Frontage Rd BozemanHealth.org/kids

Bozeman 937 Highland Boulevard, Suite 5320