Back to School
COMING LATE AUGUST & EARLY SEPTEMBER
SPLASH CAMP
WHAT IS SPLASH CAMP?
Splash Camp is for kids who love to swim and want to grow their swimming skills. Learn competitive strokes from certified coaches and current Barracudas in the water!
Stay tuned for registration and more informaton to come in August.
Kids ages 5 +
BOZEMAN BARRACUDAS SWIM CLUB PRESENTS BozemanBarracudas BozemanBarracudas.org
*Participants must be able to complete one length of freestyle and backstroke without floatation devices
WHERE IS IT LOCATED?
Bozeman Swim Center | 1211 W Main St. Bozeman, MT
Visit Our Website or Instagram Page for exact dates and times to sign up!
SWIMMING IS BENE FISH AL
Health Benefits! Swimming is a fun way to keep your kiddos active and healthy.
Improves Social Skills! Swimming will give your child the opportunity to meet new friends their age who share similar interests!
Boosts Confidence! Swimming helps children overcome fears and teaches them to adapt to new challenges.
Improves Mental Development! According to studies, due to the exercise, swimming helps children develop their mind/body connection.
Reduces Stress! The increase of endorphins in the brain from swimming help kids to effectively relieve their stress.
Teaches Safety Skills! Swimming teaches children a lifesaving skill and helps them be more aware of their surroundings and others.
S u p p o r t i n g a n d e n h a n c i n g H e l e n a ’ s p e r i n a t a l c o m m u n i t y
t h r o u g h c o n n e c t i o n , r e s o u r c e s , a n d a d v o c a c y . W e a i m t o
e n s u r e H e l e n a p a r e n t s h a v e t h e k n o w l e d g e a n d s u p p o r t t h e y n e e d t o n u r t u r e b o t h t h e i r c h i l d / r e n a n d t h e i r p a r e n t i n g
j o u r n e y . W e a l s o p r o v i d e g u i d a n c e a n d r e s o u r c e s t o p e r i n a t a l p r o f e s s i o n a l s w o r k i n g w i t h i n H e l e n a a n d i t s s u r r o u n d i n g c o m m u n i t i e s .
R E S O U R C E G U I D E
INTRODUCING OUR for Helena families
MEDIA MAVENS LLC PO BOX 11056, BOZEMAN, MT 59719 INFO@MTPARENT.COM
ADVERTISING/OWNER CORA DESANTIS | CORA@MTPARENT.CO M | 406-579-0746
EDITOR IN CHIEF/ACCOUNTING/OWNER LEIGH RIPLEY | LEIGH@MTPARENT.COM
CREATIVE DIRECTOR/OWNER SHAUNESCY WILLARD | SHAUNESCY@MTPARENT.COM
LAYOUT & DESIGN SHAUNESCY WILLARD
COPY EDITORS ELEONORE SNOW & LEIGH RIPLEY
AD DESIGN ANDREA HILL
COVER PHOTO ORIGIN IMAGERY
BLOG ANDREA HILL
ONLINE CALENDARS ANDREA@MTPARENT.COM
SOCIAL MEDIA ANDREA HILL, CORA DESANTIS
PRINT MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION CORA@MTPARENT.COM
SUBMIT PHOTOS SHAUNESCY@MTPARENT.COM
* 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.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:
ORIGIN IMAGERY
KATIE DOLEN
AMERICAN PRAIRIE
ARTS COUNCIL OF BIG SKY
RACHAEL ASHERMAN
LINDSAY MULCAHY
BUTTE TOURISM OFFICE
BLAIR FJESETH
SEAN MCFARLAND
• What’s Up? photos are from event social media pages if not supplied by the organization
GUEST EDITORIAL | HELENA VILLAGE COLLECTIVE WRITTEN BY JENNY ANDERSEN
In the fall of 2023, when Katie Maslowski and I were introduced by Maureen Bjerke, we thought we’d just grab a coffee and maybe plan to host a support group together sometime in the future. But when we started chatting, we soon realized that there were so many other folks doing work similar to ours, with no idea of who was doing what or how to be in touch. On a whim, we sent an email during the winter of 2024 to everyone we could think of in the perinatal world, asking if they’d like to meet and chat about their work. We thought maybe one or two would show up — to our surprise, we had almost everyone on our email list attend!
From that initial meeting we learned that while, we all felt like we were working in silos, there were so many of us willing to help each other and collaborate. For the first few months we met as a group, learned about each other and discussed what we were hoping to provide for Helena families. A few things stood out: support groups, safe spaces and building awareness of all the resources Helena has to offer. In the winter of 2025 we started our first support group, The Village, which was swiftly followed by The Circle. We started hosting a Family Care Tent in the spring of 2025, providing a safe place for people to nurse, feed and change their infants at Helena events like the Farmers Market. And this summer we are so excited to provide our Resource Guide (inserted on page 5) as a way to connect Helena families with all the help available to them.
As someone who runs their own postpartum care business, Helena Village Collective has been invaluable to me personally. I have met so many wonderful, caring professionals who I can now recommend to clients to make sure people feel like they aren’t just slipping through the cracks once they give birth. And if I don’t personally know who to contact, I have a resourceful group to lean on that I know will make sure a parent feels supported. I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished since our first cup of coffee, and I can’t wait to see where we go from here.
Back to School
PHOTOS ORIGIN IMAGERY
School Picture Day, Reimagined What Families Should Know (and Why it Matters)
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DRISCOLL AND SOPHIE LANE | ORIGIN IMAGERY
When picture day rolls around, it’s normal to have questions: Will my child smile? Will their hair behave? Will this be the photo I actually want to frame?
At Origin Imagery, we’ve set out to make picture day something parents and kids both feel good about. Because let’s be real—these aren’t just pictures; they’re memories. They’re what gets taped to the fridge, tucked in wallets, sent to grandparents and treasured for years to come.
That’s why we’ve reimagined the entire experience to make it easy, personal and genuinely joyful—for families, not just schools.
More Options, Less Stress
No more paper envelopes, guessing games or paying upfront for photos you haven’t seen. With Origin Imagery, everything is online and family friendly. After picture day, you’ll receive a private gallery where you can:
Ç See multiple images of your child
Ç Choose your favorite (or favorites!) before ordering
Ç Pick print sizes, digital downloads or both
Ç Share with extended family in just a click
And if your child needs a retake? That’s part of the flexibility, too. Retake photos are added directly to the same gallery as the originals—so you can compare side by side and choose the image you love most. No guessing. No pressure. Just choices.
We believe every kid has more than one great expression—and you deserve to choose the one that feels most like them
Honest, Heartfelt Portraits
We don’t just take pictures—we help your child feel seen. Our photographers are warm, patient and trained to bring out genuine smiles and natural expressions, whether your kiddo is outgoing, shy or full of sillies.
Each image is professionally lit, thoughtfully posed and gently retouched for a clean, timeless look. Just beautiful photos of your child being themselves.
School Approved, Parent Loved
We partner with schools that care about quality, communication and making things simple for families. From check-in to gallery delivery, our process is smooth, respectful and thoughtfully designed to work well for everyone. We also take pride in offering retakes with kindness and patience. Life happens—whether it’s bedhead,
nerves or just an off day, and we’re here for it. And again, because retake images appear in the same gallery as the originals, you don’t have to cross your fingers and hope the second time’s better. You simply choose what you love most.
“Thanks again for all the work you are putting in for our school pictures! The staff loved their ID cards and I got multiple comments about how nice they turned out. Looking forward to working with Origin Imagery again next year. You guys were wonderful to work with this year, thank you.” ~Manhattan Public School Administrator
“I have never purchased school pictures before and hadn’t planned to, but was so pleasantly surprised by the way picture day was done this year and how I was able to view pictures before I ordered that I just couldn’t say no to them once I saw the adorable expressions and poses they captured!” ~Student Parent
Picture Day Prep: A Quick Parent Guide
Want to set your child up for picture-day success? Here are a few simple tips:
Ç Dress for comfort and confidence Solid colors and subtle patterns photograph beautifully. Avoid neon colors, logos or anything too busy.
Ç Practice their natural smile
Make it fun in the mirror—help your kiddo find a smile that feels true to them, not forced.
Ç Give the details a quick check Breakfast crumbs, bedhead or smudges? A quick wipe or brush goes a long way.
Ç Send a backup shirt (just in case) Especially for younger kids—accidents happen, and it’s good to be prepared.
Ç Remind them to just be themselves That’s the version of them you’ll want to remember anyway.
Let’s Make Picture Day a Memory Worth Framing
If your child’s school already works with Origin Imagery, we’re so excited to photograph them. If not, feel free to pass our name along to your school staff—we’d love to bring our warm, family-centered approach to even more picture days across Montana.
Not at an Origin School? No Problem.
If your child’s school doesn’t partner with us but you’d still love the Origin experience, follow us on social media. Every fall, we host an open school picture day that’s available to anyone—perfect for homeschool families, kids who missed picture day or those who just want extra options and more chances to shine.
Because school portraits shouldn’t be something you settle for. They should be something you love.
Proudly serving Montana schools and families with care, creativity and heart. For more information visit originimagery.com or email info@originimagery.com.
BIRTHDAY
Starting preschool, kindergarten or a dropoff program is a big milestone—for children and their grownups. Whether it’s your first goodbye or your 15th, the transition can stir up a lot: excitement, nervousness, pride, grief and everything in between. At State of Play Preschool, we don’t call this separation, but rather supported autonomy — because we believe that when a child steps into a new space, they’re not just moving away from you, they’re also moving toward something: their independence, their friendships, their community, their future.
Supported autonomy is rooted in the idea that young children thrive when we offer both connection and freedom. The Reggio Emilia approach, which inspires our work at State of Play, emphasizes a child’s right to explore their environment, form meaningful relationships and express themselves fully—all while knowing that their trusted adults are still emotionally close, even when physically apart.
Here’s what that can look like: Your child might cling to your leg one moment, and confidently zip off to build a rocket ship the next. That in-between space? That’s growth. It’s where resilience forms.
As parents and caregivers, our instinct is often to soften every bump in the road. But gentle,
Moving Foward, Not Away
Supporting Children Through Separation
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY KATIE DOLEN, COFOUNDER OF STATE OF PLAY
supported challenges—like drop-off—are essential in building autonomy. One way to frame it: “You’re not leaving them behind; you’re cheering them forward.”
Creative Tools for Transition
Art and play are some of the most powerful ways for young children to process change. Research by child development experts and parenting coaches consistently shows that offering children a role in their routines—and a visual language for their feelings—can reduce anxiety and increase confidence.
Here are a few favorite art-based prompts to help prepare for transitions:
Visual Family Calendar
Together, create a colorful, illustrated calendar of your child’s week. Use drawings, photos or stickers to mark drop-off days, pick-up times, special events or school rituals (like snack time or circle time). This gives kids a sense of when things will happen and reminds them that grown-ups always come back.
“What Helps Me Feel Brave” Collage
Invite your child to gather images from magazines, scraps of fabric or family photos and glue them into a collage about what helps them
“…they’re not just moving away from you, they’re also moving toward something: their independence, their friendships, their community, their future.”
feel safe or strong. Display it near the door or in their cubby as a transitional touchpoint.
Feelings Portraits
Set up a mirror and offer materials for your child to draw “feelings faces.” What does their face look like when they’re nervous? Excited? Brave? It’s a way to externalize emotions and let kids name what’s happening inside.
Pocket Notes
Write a little love note or draw a tiny picture and tuck it into a pocket or backpack. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just a quiet reminder: “You are safe, you are loved and I’ll see you soon.”
Above all, trust that transitions aren’t detours they’re part of the journey. With time, warmth and a little creative magic, your child will not only adapt to change—they’ll grow into it. And so will you.
State of Play’s new part-time 2s/3s Preschool Program is designed with exactly this kind of gentle, playful transition in mind. Held Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 p.m., it offers young children their first joyful step toward independence in a nurturing, art-filled environment. Learn more at www.stateofplay.co.
Why School Choice?
Families in most other U.S. states have more K-12 education options than families in Montana.
A non-profit preschool where fun and play are EVERYTHING!
Nurturing independence in a loving environment since 1966
Transitioning to Middle School
WRITTEN BY REBEKAH PRICE ORR, MS LCPC
Oh, middle school. Just the thought of it is enough to make many of us parents cringe. Whether it is memories of mean girls, the embarrassing style choices of our generation or the awkwardness of puberty — thinking about our kids going through this transition can cause parents just as much (if not more) anxiety than their children. Here are some practical tips, as well as insights on the developmental changes of 11 to 13-year-olds, that might be useful during this time.
Practical Tips
Ç If your child did not get the opportunity to tour the school before the end of last year, schedule a time to take your tween. It can be helpful to meet their teachers and walk them through their schedule. Lockers are often a new concept for this age, so practice opening the lock with them. It is also beneficial to time how long it will take for them to walk to each class, so they can strategize when to go to their locker.
Ç Take the opportunity to learn what resources are available at the school. If your child has accommodations, proactively reach out to the school counselor or whoever facilitates these services as the beginning of the school year is often a busy time for administration.
Ç Knowledge is power! You can alleviate your child ’s anxiety by providing information and establishing a plan/ routine for the school year. It can be helpful to start morning routines and wake up times one-to-two weeks before the start of school so it is not as big of an adjustment.
Ç Encourage your child to get involved with school activities (such as a back-toschool event), sports camps or summer conditionings before school starts. This gives them a chance to socialize with other students so they have those connections as they walk into their first day.
Ç Middle school often comes with more responsibility. Having a visual reminder of what they need to take to school with them can be useful. For example, post a printout of a stop sign at the door with a list of essentials they need to take with them such as PE clothes, Chromebook, ID, lunch, etc.
Developmental Insights
Developmentally, this age group is going through big shifts physically, mentally and socially. Middle schoolers are often becoming more peer oriented than family oriented, which can look like distancing themselves from parents, acting embarrassed or even having an “attitude” with caregivers. These are all deemed normal behaviors, but that does not mean you should not hold boundaries. It might feel like they are pushing you away, but they need to know (now more than ever) that you are there for them and are able to provide stability, structure and unconditional love.
I encourage parents of the middle schoolers I work with to start the shift from being a “boss parent” to a “coach parent” in these years. During your child’s life up until this point, you have very likely acted on authority. This means you have largely fought their battles for them by reaching out directly to teachers if they are struggling, and to friend’s parents if there are conflicts. It can be a wonderful way to foster independence, maturity and also your emotional bond with your child to come alongside them and help them draft the email to their teacher themselves as well as to provide wisdom and guidance to help them advocate for themselves in social conflicts. Nonjudgmentally practicing and discussing these situations, as well as other social skills, can build open communication that will benefit the relationship you have with your child through the years. Finally, prioritizing lowstakes special time with your middle schooler can provide the space they need to feel seen and heard. They might not always talk about what is going on in school and with their friends, which can be OK as long as they are safe. Taking them for an occasional ice cream treat, a walk together where there is no pressure to talk about things or bonding over a shared interest are wonderful ways you can continue to be a guiding force in your tween’s life.
Middle school can be a tumultuous time for kids and a nerve-wracking season to enter into as a parent. But with your support, your student is capable of creating lasting memories, friendships and gaining important insight and knowledge through these formidable years.
Rebekah Price Orr is a fellow parent and founder of Nature and Nurture Counseling Services, a small group practice in Helena, Montana—helping families find calm in the chaos. Learn more at www.natureandnurturemontana.com.
American Prairie Field School
Meadowlarks are singing, prairie dogs are chirping and, as the sun comes up, sage grouse are strutting and dancing. What’s on your agenda today? Well, as a student at the American Prairie Field School, your morning might involve checking the “track plates” you laid out the night before to see what animals have passed through, using their tracks to learn about their size, gait, behavior and habitat. Midday, you might learn to play double-ball, a Traditional Native Game taught by guides from Aaniiih Nakoda Tours. In the afternoon, perhaps you’ll reassemble a scattered bison skeleton, discovering much about the anatomy and ecological role of bison on the plains. Or maybe you’ll put out a game camera in a prairie dog town, capturing images of prairie dogs, burrowing owls or pronghorn. That evening, you might take a hike, birdwatch, make a sound map or learn about the deep roots of prairie plants. For dinner, you’ll make Three Sisters Soup, and hear about the ways these traditional indigenous foods nourished one another, and people, for millennia. Once it’s dark, you’ll chart the movement of constellations in one of the clearest, brightest night skies anywhere.
The American Prairie Field School creates early and enduring connections to Montana’s prairie ecosystem for students across Montana. Field School offers education programs for grades K through 12, through both overnight and day programming. Its STEM curriculum connects students with experts including research scientists from the Smithsonian Institute, Yellowstone Forever and American Prairie, diving into subjects such as natural and human history, astronomy, plant biology, wildlife ecology, geology and Traditional Native Games. All programs align with NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) and are fully funded.
Day Programming
Join the American Prairie Field School with your school group at the National Discovery Center in Lewistown, or request instructors visit your classroom virtually or in person. Diverse topics and lessons include keystone species, birds of the grasslands, skulls and furs, camera traps and tracks, plants and ethnobotany and Traditional Native Games. A transportation stipend is available for public schools to cover travel costs, including gas and lodging.
Overnight Field School
This program gives Montana middle schoolers the opportunity to spend three days and two nights in the field under Montana’s big prairie skies. Using Antelope Creek Campground (near Zortman, Montana) as a backdrop for learning, students are exposed to the full diversity of ecological, cultural and historical elements unique to the Northern Great Plains. Each class has a maximum of 20 students; meals, lodging and a busing stipend are provided.
Teacher Workshop
Once a year in June, teachers are invited to explore the science of the Great Plains using the living prairie laboratory. Get outdoors and investigate this unique ecosystem, learn from scientific researchers and collaborate with colleagues. There is no cost to Montana teachers for this workshop, which includes an option for continuing education units from the Montana Office of Public Instruction.
To learn more, please contact Dusty Rixford, American Prairie’s Education Manager, at dusty@ americanprairie.org or 406-595-2209.
Is it Just ‘Back-to-School Rustiness’ or a Language Delay?
How to Recognize When Your Child Needs Time—or Extra Support This School Year
WRITTEN BY ALLEGRA BERESZNIEWICZ, MS, CCC-SLP/QOM, OWNER OF GRO SPEECH
Once the school year kicks off, some families may notice their kids are a little off their game. Maybe your child is zoning out more during homework, giving one-word answers when they used to chat easily or seems overwhelmed by small changes in routine. It’s tempting to shrug and assume it’s just “back-to-school rustiness.” And sometimes, that’s exactly what it is—kids often need a few weeks to transition from summer mode to school structure.
But what if the struggle goes beyond a slow warm-up?
As a pediatric speech-language pathologist, I often meet families in September or October who wonder: Is my child just adjusting… or is something deeper going on?
Let’s unpack the signs to look for, and how to support your child—whether they need time, a routine tweak or expert help.
What is “Back-to-School Rust”?
Kids grow and change rapidly—especially over a long summer break. Their brains may have been resting from the academic demands of reading comprehension, vocabulary, handwriting and social problem-solving. Add in new teachers, classmates, routines and expectations, and it’s no wonder many children seem a bit “off” at the start of the year.
Some signs of typical back-to-school adjustment might include:
Ç Needing reminders to follow directions or complete multi-step tasks
Ç Mild regressions in attention or stamina
Ç Feeling more tired or moody than usual
Ç Short-term difficulties organizing thoughts or retelling stories
When it Might be a Language Delay
Sometimes what looks like “rust” is actually a language-based learning difficulty. Children with expressive or receptive language disorders may struggle to keep up academically or socially—not just in the first month of school, but year-round.
Here are some red flags that signal your school-aged child may benefit from a language evaluation:
Receptive (Understanding) Language
Ç Struggles to follow directions, especially if multi-step or unfamiliar
Ç Seems lost during class discussions or group activities
Ç Has difficulty answering “wh-” questions (what, where, why, etc.)
Expressive (Speaking) Language
Ç Has trouble organizing thoughts when telling a story or explaining something
Ç Uses simple or vague language when more complex speech is expected
Ç Leaves out key words or grammar (e.g., “He go store” instead of “He went to the store”)
Ç Avoids speaking in new situations or with peers
Even children who are bright and verbal can have underlying language weaknesses that affect learning, confidence and friendships.
The Regulation Connection: Language and Sensory Behavior
It’s not just about words. Many children with language delays also experience difficulties with self-regulation, sensory processing or executive functioning. These skills all work together to help kids:
Ç Stay calm and alert during class
Ç Handle transitions or frustration
Ç Follow classroom routines and expectations
Ç Express emotions in appropriate ways
If your child is…
Ç Melting down after school
Ç Having trouble sitting still or staying focused
Ç Seeming “disconnected” or overly reactive to sounds, touch or movement ...it could be more than typical adjustment. These behaviors may signal that your child’s nervous system is under stress and they may benefit from a team approach involving speech therapy, occupational therapy or both.
What Parents Can Do
The earlier support begins, the more confident and connected your child will feel. Here’s how to get started:
1. Observe Closely
Track what situations seem difficult—are there patterns (e.g., group settings, transitions, homework time)?
2. Talk with Teachers
They can offer insights about how your child is functioning compared to peers, both academically and socially.
These challenges often resolve on their own within three to six weeks as routines stabilize and confidence returns.
3.
Reach Out to a Professional
A licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) can assess your child’s communication skills and offer individualized support. If sensory or behavioral regulation is also a concern, an occupational therapist (OT) can help too.
How Gro Speech Can Help
At Gro Speech, we understand that every child’s journey is unique—and that sometimes, it’s not easy to tell what’s “normal” anymore. We offer speech-language and occupational therapy services that support not only communication, but also emotional and sensory regulation, self-esteem and school participation.
Whether your child needs a full evaluation or just a screening to rule things out, Gro Speech is here to listen, guide and grow with you.
Final Thought
Back-to-school time isn’t just a change of schedule—it’s a developmental milestone. And just like walking or riding a bike, some kids need extra support to find their footing. If you’re wondering whether it’s just a phase or something more, trust your gut and seek answers.
Because the earlier we catch the struggle, the sooner your child can thrive.
Gro Speech offers pediatric speech, language, feeding/swallowing, myofunctional, occupational and lactation consulting therapy services from birth to adolescence. We have been serving Gallatin County and beyond for 20+ years with in person clinic sessions and remote, telehealth therapy options when appropriate for families that cannot make weekly in person sessions. If you have concerns and are looking to schedule an evaluation visit grospeech.com or call us at 406-556-9853. For more parenting strategies and ideas in relation to speech and OT development listen to Gab and Gro: Conversations in Pediatric Therapy anywhere you listen to podcasts.
Two Bozeman Locations
(North campus) 3774 Equestrian Ln. (South campus) 233 Enterprise Blvd.
Serving ages 6 mths to 6 yrs
Enrolling Now Toddler and Primary Classrooms:
• Hot lunches and snacks from our own school kitchen included with tuition
• Weekly music classes included
• Supportive community of teachers and families
• Licensed early childhood center with DPHHS since 2013
• Children’s developmental needs supported by trained Montessori teachers
• Variety of scheduling options available
• Spacious, beautiful environments
• STAR 4 in Montana’s voluntary Quality Rating System (QRS)
CONTACT US TODAY!
Email: enrollment@bozeman montessori.com
Ph: (406) 600-8098
www.bozemanmontessori.com
Follow us on
Sports Physicals: Keeping Kids Healthy and Active
WRITTEN BY DR. SHAINA ROGERS
Anticipation is already building as we approach the season of Friday night lights. Whether your child is an experienced athlete or this is their first season, Bozeman Health Pediatrics wants to help ensure that they can safely participate. As pediatricians, we want to set your athlete up for a successful season by completing their sports or pre-participation physical.
Why Sports Physicals?
The Montana High School Association requires that a sports physical be completed for every athlete who wants to play school sports. The goal is to ensure that young athletes are healthy and cleared to participate. This will give them the best possible opportunity to have a safe and fun experience.
Sports Physicals – What to Expect
There are several components of sports physicals. First, every athlete and their family will complete the history portion of the standard form. The form includes questions about different aspects of health, including cardiovascular health and bone and joint health, among others. This is an opportunity to review the athlete’s history as well as relevant family history. Based on this information, your child’s pediatrician will determine if any additional evaluation needs to be performed before being cleared for sports participation. The sports physical also includes checking growth parameters to ensure your child is growing well, obtaining vital signs, a vision screen and performing a physical examination. Last, the pediatrician will ensure your child’s immunizations are up to date.
Your Medical Home
Your child’s pediatrician is the best person to complete their sports physical, because they are able to provide a whole-child approach. Your pediatrician will be aware of any chronic medical
conditions your child may have. If, for instance, your child has asthma, the pediatrician will help achieve good asthma control and ensure your kiddo has the inhalers he needs to be able to safely participate. Any acute issues identified can also be approached through the lens of experience with your child and your family. This is a superior experience compared to having a sports physical done by a provider not in your child’s medical home.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends an annual well-child visit for all children. Your child’s sports physical can be done as part of the well-child visit at no additional cost, adding convenience and cost savings for your family.
Timing of the Sports Physical
The end of summer can feel rushed and chaotic, so please consider scheduling your child’s sports physical as soon as you are able to do so. Ideally, your child’s sports physical would occur at least six to eight weeks prior to the start of the season to allow time for follow-up of any issues. All Bozeman Health locations, including Deaconess Regional Medical Center, Cottonwood Clinic, Belgrade Clinic and Big Sky Medical Center are offering sports physicals.
Final Takeaway
We all want to see our kids thrive – on the field, the court and in life. Your child’s health and safety are Bozeman Health’s number-one priority. So, grab your helmets, your shin guards and cleats and come see us! We would love the opportunity to care for your child.
Shaina Rogers, DO, MPH is a board-certified pediatrician with the Bozeman Health Pediatrics Clinic in Belgrade. Dr. Rogers is committed to partnering with families to provide exceptional, thorough, and compassionate care for her patients.
You can reach the Bozeman Health Pediatrics team at 406-414-4900.
Puberty: Let’s Talk About It!
WRITTEN BY ELLA ROE
With the start of the school year inching closer, now is a good time to talk about a (sometimes) dreaded subject: puberty! Puberty is the process of a youth’s body maturing into an adult body that is capable of sexual reproduction. The key word in this definition is process. Puberty does not happen overnight or in one day – it happens over years and in many stages. Although everybody goes through puberty in their life, the subject is often avoided or considered taboo. So, in this article, I want to debunk some common myths, offer ideas for how you can prepare and support your child during puberty and provide a good resource for preparing yourself and your kid for this transition.
First, let’s debunk some common puberty myths!
Myth: Everyone experiences puberty at the same time.
Truth: As I said earlier, puberty is a process, which means it starts at a different time for every kid. The typical age range for this process is 8-14 years old.
Myth: Kids get acne because of poor hygiene or bad diets.
Truth: When your kid begins puberty, they develop more oil under their skin, which can cause acne. Nothing gross about that.
Myth: Girls get their first period in middle school.
Truth: Although many young girls will get their periods in middle school, it is completely normal
for girls to get their periods earlier, even as young as 9. It is also completely normal for them to get their first period in early high school. However, if they have not had a period by the time they are 15, you might want to consider talking with their doctor.
Myth: Only boys develop body odor.
Truth: During puberty, hormonal changes cause kids to produce more sweat, which can make them smell more. This happens to all kids, not just boys.
Myth: Wet dreams are embarrassing and shouldn’t be talked about.
Truth: Wet dreams, or nocturnal emissions, are involuntary ejaculations that occur during sleep. They are very common and uncontrollable. Like many erections during puberty, it is hard to control when and where they happen. It is important to support your child so they can come to you if they need to clean up their bed or do some laundry.
How Can You Help?
With school starting soon, it might be a good idea to talk to your kid about puberty, so they know what to expect when it happens to them or a friend. The more they know, the less scary a first period or erection in class will be. Also, if they have a good understanding of what to expect, they might be able to help a friend or prevent others from being mocked.
One way to help your kid prepare is by making them a little puberty kit. You can either make
one and give it to them or turn it into a fun activity and make one together. I recommend including deodorant, razors, soap, stress balls, face wash, pads, tampons and wet wipes. Here’s a pro tip: Including pads or tampons in your kid’s puberty kit regardless of their gender means they could help a friend out in a pinch—at school, at summer camp, wherever.
If you want more resources, or a place where you can talk to and educate your kids, you might want to check out Bridgercare’s puberty workshop on September 14 at the Bozeman Public Library. This is for kids ages 8-12 and their trusted adult(s). At this event, youth participants learn about the physical, emotional and social changes of puberty. Adults learn about what to expect during puberty (emotionally and physically), skills to help normalize puberty for their child and a Q&A session to answer all of their puberty questions. Registration isn’t open yet, but you can visit the Education page at bridgercare.org to sign up for the email list to be the first to know when registration drops.
Puberty can be an exciting time, but also confusing, awkward and scary for young people if they don’t know what to expect. Having a trusted adult who is willing to talk about the changes is one thing that can help make puberty easier for young people.
Ella Roe is an intern at Bridgercare. She is studying public health and math at Colorado College, and has a large interest in reproductive health. Ella was born and raised in Bozeman and truly enjoyed growing up in this beautiful place.
Smart Eating for Kids
WRITTEN BY LAUGHING WATER
One of the greatest gifts you can give your child is good eating habits. Those habits are one foundation of a strong, healthy body, which goes hand-in-hand with the mental and emotional vitality that add up to a happy and fulfilling life.
So how do you give your child healthy eating habits?
Be a good example.
We are social beings to the core. We depend on each other’s acceptance, approval and support, and this is particularly true for kids. Kids learn and grow, and fit in, by being copycats. What you do, they will do — whether it’s endearing or embarrassing. So, as a rule: If you eat well, your children will eat well.
But that’s not always true. Children may be copycats, but you’re not the only person they’re going to copy, especially when their peers or favorite cartoon characters are so much cooler than you. And regardless of social influences, children have minds of their own. They also have bodies of their own, with needs that don’t always coincide with yours.
So, respect your child’s need to make choices.
Somehow, we knew how to eat long before there was a science of nutrition. Animals tend
to eat balanced diets, and so do babies. The problem is that this natural wisdom evolved in a world of natural foods, but today we live in a world of highly processed foods.
Our paleolithic ancestors and their foods coevolved with each other, changing at a glacial pace. Genetically, we haven’t changed much from our ancestors, but our foods have — and not just through human selection but through human creation. They’re refined, processed, manufactured, genetically engineered, factory-grown and adulterated with pesticides, pollutants, additives and packaging materials.
Fortunately, relatively clean, natural foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, nuts, seeds, dairy products, meat, poultry and fish still exist.
Put good choices on the table.
Initially you can limit a baby’s choices to wholesome, basic foods. Children’s tastes are acquired, and sometimes it just takes getting a child to taste a food a few times before they actually start liking it.
But at some point, you’ll have to deal with outside influences, particularly the pervasive marketing of junk foods. Along with dazzling colors and intense added flavors, junk foods give quick hits of sugar, salt and fat. In fact, they exploit and distort the brain’s reward system in the same way as addictive drugs.
One way to counter this is to eat nourishing foods first, slowly enough so the body has time to realize that it’s been fed. At that, point junk foods may have far less appeal.
In some cases, kids or adults may be psychologically or physically dependent on foods that would be better to avoid. One solution is to make gradual substitutions; for example, slowly substituting peanut butter that’s only made of peanuts for the version made with sugar, salt and added fat.
Keep your sanity.
There’s a lot more to be said on this subject. Today there are passionate advocates for extreme diets, but in fact humans have thrived on a wide range of diets, even in Paleolithic times and into the present. The common denominator is that those diets have included largely unprocessed foods.
And the common denominator to good parenting is love. Whatever rewards there may be to eating healthy foods, what matters most is that eating should be a positive experience that strengthens our connections to the people we cherish.
Laughing Water is a lifelong yogi, an MIT graduate and, since 1975, owner and general manager of the Real Food Market and Deli in Helena.
The Power of Positive Programs
How to determine if an activity is good for your child
WRITTEN BY KATIE DAUGHENBAUGH
3. Your child grows in self-confidence. After some time participating in a quality program, if your child is being encouraged and enabled, you’ll see it at home. Perhaps
very least, they will develop the skills to talk with you about it, which is a positive influence in itself.
Katie Daughenbaugh is the Mountain Valley District Chair for Scouting America.
Through September 7, 2025
Included with membership/admission
Step into the world of SUE the T. rex to uncover the mysteries about the life of this fearsome fossil. Come between two titans with full-scale casts of SUE and T. rex’s nemesis, Triceratops. Experience a unique multimedia show transporting you to the Cretaceous forest alongside SUE. Learn how the fossil was unearthed, and how scientists continue to make discoveries about SUE, the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever discovered. SUE can’t wait to eat, er, meet you.
SUE: The T. rex Experience was organized by the Field Museum and is part of the Griffin Dinosaur Experience, made possible by generous support from Kenneth C. Griffin.
MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS | ARTS COUNCIL OF BIG SKY
Montana Shakespeare in the Parks A
As You Like It and Henry V
AUGUST 5 & 6 AND SEPTEMBER 9, 2025
Born from aspirations to bring the timeless tales of William Shakespeare directly to rural and underserved communities, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks has been enriching the lives of people in Montana, and beyond, for 53 seasons.
This summer, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks will perform Shakespeare’s Henry V and As You Like It. The company performs in 64 communities across five states including Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, North Dakota and Washington. Most events feature pre-show performances by local artists; and audiences are encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy an evening together under the Big Sky among friends and neighbors.
As You Like It speaks to the joy and complexity of love, identity and the transformative power of nature. This romantic comedy follows the story of Rosalind, one of Shakespeare’s most complex female characters, as she ventures into the Forest of Arden alongside a colorful cast of characters to explore questions of love and transformation.
Henry V, one of Shakespeare’s historical plays, explores leadership, honor and the impact of decisions made in times of great uncertainty. A young man thrust into leadership of a nation torn apart by national destruction and discord, Henry grapples with the conflict between political expediency and his own moral compass, elevating themes of honor, justice and mercy.
August 5 at Helena’s Anchor Park, As You Like It at 6 p.m.
August 6 at Helena’s Anchor Park, Henry V at 6 p.m.
September 9 at Bozeman’s Grant Chamberlain Park, Henry V at 5:30 p.m.
Visit www.shakespeareintheparks.org for the full tour schedule.
HELENA
Big Sky Farmers Market
AUGUST 6 –SEPTEMBER 24, 2025
Featuring fresh produce, herbs, plants and flowers, baked goods, woodworking, log furniture, antler art, photography and fine art, jewelry, clothing, food vendors and kids’ activities. Held at the Fire Pit Park in Town Center Plaza on Wednesdays from 5-8 p.m.
big sky's 2025 music in the mountains lineup
AUGUST 7-28, 2025
August 7, 2025: The Nude Party
August 14, 2025: Zach Person
August 21, 2025: Big Richard
August 28, 2025: Hot Buttered Rum
Music in the Mountains is one of Montana’s finest free outdoor concert series, featuring the best up-and-coming touring musicians in the country as well as established, wellknown artists. The state-of-the-art venue (Center Stage at Len Hill Park) provides the perfect backdrop for locals and visitors to come together and enjoy incredible live music under the Big Sky.
Know Before You Go!
Ç The park opens at 6 p.m. each week, and music starts between 6:30 and 7 p.m.
Ç A variety of food and beverage vendors/trucks begin serving at 6 p.m. each week.
Ç Portable toilets and water bottle refilling stations are on site. Please use them.
Ç No pets (dogs, horses, snakes, etc. — including Emotional Support Animals) are allowed in the park.
Ç No glass containers are allowed in the park.
Ç Tobacco use is prohibited in the concert area.
BIG SKY FARMERS MARKET
ARTS COUNCIL OF BIG SKY
Gallatin Ice Launches New Stands and
First-Ever Reserved Seating
Season Tickets
Gallatin Ice recently announced the completion of brandnew spectator stands inside the Ressler Rink, along with the first-ever release of reserved seating season tickets for the 2025–26 hockey season. These upgrades mark a significant step forward in the organization’s mission to build a worldclass ice facility that delivers both affordable programming for local families and an entertaining live sports experience for fans across the Gallatin Valley.
Located inside the Ressler Rink at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, the new elevated seating offers improved comfort and visibility for spectators, creating an enhanced atmosphere for watching Bozeman’s four home teams in action. The addition of a new jumbotron and sound system— to be installed later this summer— will further elevate the game-day experience.
While Gallatin Ice has offered season tickets in the past, this is the first time fans will be able to reserve specific seats for the entire season. That means guaranteed seating for every home game played in the Ressler Rink—a major upgrade in the fan experience. With teams like the Bozeman Icedogs, Bozeman Stingers and MSU Men’s hockey playing the entirety or majority of their seasons in Ressler, reserved season tickets offer an affordable way to enjoy high-quality hockey from the vantage of a favorite seat.
“The new stands and reserved seating are part of our longterm commitment to build a top-tier community arena—one that’s accessible to youth, skaters, players and families, while also being a great place to watch competitive live hockey,” said Jeff Moore, Philanthropy Director. “This is a win for both our players and our fans.”
On sale now at tickets.gallatinice.org, fans can purchase season tickets ($60-$200) with reserved seats in the Ressler Rink for all home games across four teams:
» Bozeman Icedogs (Junior A – NA3HL): 22 home games (all in Ressler)
» Bozeman Stingers (Senior A – BDHL): 6 home games (all in Ressler)
» MSU Bobcats Men’s Hockey (ACHA D2): 13 home games (12 in Ressler)
» MSU Bobcats Women’s Hockey (ACHA D1): 10 home games (4 in Ressler)
Seating in the Bottcher Rink will remain general admission.
Bozeman Wellness Expo Shines
3,500+ Attendees Celebrate Holistic Health
Bozeman’s vibrant commitment to health and community was on full display at this year’s Bozeman Wellness Expo, which drew an enthusiastic crowd of more than 3,500 attendees and showcased more than 45 local holistic and natural health practitioners.
Hosted at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds in Bozeman, the event brought families, parents and wellness enthusiasts together for a day dedicated to exploring natural approaches to health and well-being. From herbalists and chiropractors to nutritionists and yoga instructors, local practitioners offered hands-on demonstrations, engaging talks and one-on-one consultations— giving parents valuable tools to support their family’s health in natural, holistic ways.
“This year’s turnout far exceeded our expectations,” said Sarah Miller and Brittny Cuff, organizers of the Bozeman Wellness Expo. “It’s clear our community is eager to learn more about holistic options for themselves and their children. We’re proud to support parents in making informed choices about their family’s wellness.”
The event featured interactive workshops for kids and adults alike, free health screenings and local holistic artisan vendors offering everything from organic skincare to nutritious snacks. Families enjoyed yoga, wellness-themed activities and the chance to connect with Bozeman’s thriving network of holistic professionals.
Many attendees shared how the expo opened their eyes to new possibilities for managing their family’s health, whether through mindfulness practices, dietary changes or natural therapies. The sense of community and excitement was palpable throughout the day.
As Bozeman continues to grow, events like the Bozeman Wellness Expo highlight the city’s dedication to holistic living and the importance of community-centered support for parents striving to raise healthy, resilient children.
The 2026 Bozeman Wellness Expo will be held on May 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stay tuned at bozemanwellnessexpo.com and on Instagram @ bozemanwellnessexpo for ongoing holistic resources and updates to help Montana families thrive.
Fun Fridays
Preschool Rec MobiLE
AUGUST 1, 8 & 15, 2025
The goal of this FREE program is easy access to recreation. Bozeman Parks and Recreation leaders will provide equipment and activities geared toward kiddos from preschool to age 5. No preregistration is required; just drop-in and join the fun. Guardians are required to attend with their children. Weather notice: If snowing or raining, Rec Mobile will be canceled.
ValLEy WeST Park
Ç LOCATED ON CLIFDEN AND CASCADE STREET
Ç FRIDAYS, AUGUST 1, 8, 15
FROM 10:30-11:30 A.M.
Gallatin Valley Farmers Market
GALLATIN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS / HAYNES PAVILION
SATURDAYS, AUGUST 2 –SEPTEMBER 13, 2025
9 A.M. TO NOON
Bozeman
Farmers Market
LINDLEY PARK
TUESDAYS, AUGUST 5 –SEPTEMBER 9, 2025
5-8 P.M.
The Market Creatives commit a portion of the market’s revenues to the preservation and improvements of all Bozeman Parks.
Music on Main
AUGUST 7, 2025
Music on Main’s final concert will be held on Thursday, August 7, featuring NOT.GREENDAY. The event, hosted by the Downtown Bozeman Association, is held on Main Street between Rouse and Black Avenues from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Music starts at 7 p.m.
From 6:30-8 p.m., bring the kids to the Coca Cola “Kids’ Zone” on South Bozeman Avenue with inflatables and other interactive activities provided by the area’s best nonprofits. Grab a bite to eat from one of the many rotating food vendors, step into a few of the downtown stores that stay open late and, of course, enjoy outstanding live music.
Summer Art Walks
AUGUST 8 & SEPTEMBER 12, 2025
Art Walks occur on the second Friday of the month through September from 6 to 8 p.m. at art galleries and businesses downtown. Participating businesses will feature local artists and often provide hors d’oeuvres and complimentary refreshments. Also, keep an eye out for local musicians performing as you stroll Main Street in downtown Bozeman.
BOZEMAN FARMERS MARKET
MUSIC ON MAIN | PHOTO RACHAEL ASHERMAN
Free Symphony Storytime
AUGUST 13, 2025
The Bozeman Symphony invites young children and their families to a magical morning of music and storytelling at Symphony Storytime on Wednesday, August 13 at 10:15 a.m. at the Bozeman Public Library.
Presented in partnership with the Library’s Toddler and Preschool Storytime, this free, interactive event is designed especially for children ages 3 to 5. The program combines the joy of live music with engaging storytelling to spark imagination and creativity in young minds.
Each Symphony Storytime features a Bozeman Symphony musician and a special guest reader, who work together to bring a story to life through the power of music and narration. Following the story, children will enjoy a brief, up-close musical performance and learn about the featured instrument in a fun, handson way.
“Symphony Storytime is a wonderful introduction to music for young children,” said Cierra Wallace, Education and Community Engagement Coordinator for the Bozeman Symphony. “It helps foster a love for the arts in a setting that’s playful, welcoming and inspiring.”
Follow the Bozeman Symphony on Facebook and Instagram for updates on featured instruments, musicians and readers. For more information, visit www.bozemansymphony.org or call 406-585-9774.
25th
Annual
“Cruisin’ on Main” Car Show
AUGUST 17, 2025
MSU Community Cat Walk
AUGUST 15, 2025
Montana State University’s Cat Walk will take place on August 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. MSU’s President, Champ, the MSU Spirit of the West Marching Band, MSU Spirit Squad and other MSU representatives and community members will make their way down Main Street to create some Bobcat Buzz! They will be visiting businesses and stores, playing the fight song and passing out exclusive Bobcat swag along the way. The MSU Cat Walk is a cannot-miss community tradition.
The “Cruisin’ on Main” Car Show is held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Main Street between Willson and Rouse Avenues. Car enthusiasts are invited to enter their vehicles in the show – all makes and models are welcome. You may preregister or register the day of the show. All proceeds from “Cruisin on Main” support Cancer Support Community. Gift Bags and Dash Plaques will be given to all registered vehicles; trophies will be awarded in more than 10 car categories including a “People’s Choice” and “Best of Show.”
Bumblewood Thicket
SEPTEMBER 5-21, 2025
Get your fairy wings ready and sprinkle a little pixie dust because it’s time for the most magical event of the year—Bumblewood Thicket Fairy Village. Nestled in the heart of the Gallatin Valley, this annual tradition invites all ages to step into a whimsical world filled with fairy houses, tiny shops and delightful surprises. Each year, 20 talented fairy architects (a.k.a local artists and makers) craft enchanting new homes for the fairies of Bumblewood.
The village is tucked away in the winding, wooded paths of Glen Lake Rotary Park and, once a year, the fairies lift the veil of protection to welcome humans into their hidden world.
You’ll know you’ve arrived when you cross the bridge over the East Gallatin River into the enchanted Bumblewood forest. You might even get a sprinkle of pixie dust from a fairy ambassador to kick off your adventure.
Bumblewood stays aglow at night, casting a spell of light until fairy bedtime at 9 p.m. But beware—this fairyland is a true adventure after dark. The paths aren’t lit, so the village will be glowing, but it’s up to you to wander the magical woods safely.
You can also catch spellbinding acts on the trail into Bumblewood every Saturday evening from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Local musicians, dancers and actors will bring fairy tales to life— no reservation required; just enjoy the performances as you stroll into the village. Create your own fairy house to display during the final weekend (September 18-21). Register online to join the display. Bumblewood is free. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information visit www. randomactsofsilliness.com.
Be Brilliant.
Shine Savings Membership: Compassionate Dental Care for Families!
-Low Monthly Payments
-Family & Veteran Discounts
-Preventative Care Included -15% Off Most Dental Services -$25 Reward: Earn $25 just for coming in for your routine cleaning, which you can use towards future treatments, products, or fun SWAG!
The family-friendly doctors and staff are ready to take care of YOU and ALL your dental needs.
Mention this ad and Shine Dental will waive the $75 one-time enrollment fee for the Shine Savings Membership!
1125 W KAGY AVE, STE 303 BOZEMAN, MT 59715
406.587.2201 HELLO@SHINEDENTALMT.COM
An Ri Ra Montana Irish Festival
AUGUST 8-10, 2025
Founded by the Montana Gaelic Cultural Society to promote and preserve Gaelic culture through language, music and dance, this Uptown Butte festival brings Ireland to the Mining City.
Performers from around the country and Ireland will perform both traditional and contemporary Irish music and dance. Outdoor performances will be held at the Original Mine Yard, so bring your lawn chair and umbrella, sit back and enjoy the music. There will also be Irish-related workshops and an author series, as well as local food and craft vendors.
The Original Mine Yard is a unique venue — it’s an old mine yard that has been converted into a public park. The headframe (a structural frame above an underground mine shaft, once used to lower miners, mules, equipment and supplies down the shafts and bring up load after load of ore) and other mine buildings are still on site. It is a great place to take in scenic views of Uptown Butte while being surrounded by buildings of historical significance. The stage that will house An Ri Ra performances sits within a headframe.
Admission is free. For more information on the schedule, including festival workshops and lecture series information, please visit www.mtgaelic.org/anrira.
Uptown Butte Farmers Market
Located on West Park Street, between Park and Main, on Saturdays through October 4, 2025 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Since 1995, the Butte Farmers Market has blossomed and grown, earning a reputation for providing shoppers with colorful and hardy hanging and bedding plants, farm fresh eggs, chickens, fruits and vegetables from many gardens in the Butte area and the Hutterite colonies near Choteau, and Hmong vegetable gardens in the Missoula and Bitteroot area.
Vendors provide a wide variety of baked goods, packaged sausages, fresh produce, cut flowers, salsa and other prepared foods. A variety of arts and crafts by craftspeople from throughout southwest Montana are available each Saturday as well.
PHOTO LINDSAY MULCAHY
helena D
Grief and Parenting: You’re Not Alone
AUGUST 20 & OCTOBER 15, 2025
Family Care Tent
Introducing the Family Care Tent. Look for Helena Village Collective all season long at the Farmers Market and other Helena area events. Come find the tent if you need a space to feed or change your baby, or want a quiet spot to rest. If you would like to sponsor the tent, or if you have any questions, please reach out to hello@ helenavillagecollective.org
Helena Farmers Market
FULLER AVENUE
SATURDAYS, THROUGH OCTOBER 25, 2025
9 A.M. TO 1 P.M.
One of the longest-running markets in the state of Montana, the Helena Farmers Market welcomes local farmers, crafters, food vendors and other artisans bringing their Montana-made products downtown for the local Helena community to see and purchase. While they browse, shoppers can enjoy the serenade of local musicians and smell the fragrant aroma of fresh floral arrangements and kettle corn.
Grief doesn’t follow the school calendar. For many families, the back-toschool season can be especially tender—a reminder of what could have been or who is missing. Whether your loss is recent or long ago, parenting while grieving is a quiet strength few talk about.
In Helena, the Early Childhood Collaborative is working to change that.
Through gentle, inclusive gatherings, these events offer local parents a place to pause, connect and remember. From creative memorial projects to time in nature, these events are held every other month and are open to all who are grieving a child or pregnancy—at any age or stage.
The next event will be held on Wednesday, August 20 from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Lewis & Clark Library.
On October 15, join the Early Childhood Collaborative for Wave of Light, a worldwide day of remembrance for pregnancy and infant loss. Participants will gather with candles, community and care.
Grief can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Learn more about upcoming events at ecchelena.org/loss-resources
Alive @ Five
AUGUST 6-27, 2025
Alive @ Five has been a Helena community staple for more than 20 years. Although the series has evolved over the years, one thing has remained the same: Alive @ Five is a FREE summer concert series where families can celebrate beautiful Wednesday summer nights and listen to great music while enjoying your neighbor’s company and food from some of Helena’s awesome food trucks.
AUGUST 6, 2025
JOHN ROBERTS Y PAN BLANCO AT WOMEN’S PARK
AUGUST 13, 2025
EL WENCHO AND MATT STRACHAN & THE HOOT OWLS AT THE LEWIS & CLARK TAP ROOM
AUGUST 20, 2025
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PEARLS AT CARROLL COLLEGE
AUGUST 27
HOT BUTTERED RUM AT THE LEWIS & CLARK TAP ROOM
HELENA FARMERS MARKET
2025 Music in the Park Concert Series
AUGUST 1, 2 & 16, 2025
Since 2006, Black Mountain Productions has been bringing the Music in the Park summer concerts series to Pioneer Park in West Yellowstone. The Music in the Park series has a longstanding tradition of bringing a variety of music genres to the stage. Events feature local, regional and headlining bands playing upbeat, family-friendly music.
Bring your blanket, lawn chair, picnic dinner – or grab take-out from one of West Yellowstone’s fabulous restaurants, and enjoy some great music.
2025 Summer Concert Lineup:
AUGUST 1:
*START TIME 7 P.M.
In conjunction with the West Yellowstone Annual Rod Run Headliner – THE SOUL FUNK COLLECTIVE (FUNK)
AUGUST 2:
*START TIME 12:30 P.M.
In conjunction with the West Yellowstone Annual Rod Run Headliner – THE LIMITED WARRANTY BAND (CLASSIC ROCK)
AUGUST 16:
*START TIME 6:30 P.M. Headliner – SUNSAH406 (AMERICANA)
Opener: 6:30–8 P.M. – TESSY LOU WILLIAMS & BAND
West Yellowstone Rod Run
AUGUST 1 & 2, 2025
Celebrating 55 years, the Yellowstone Rod Run returns to West Yellowstone August 1 and 2. For Rod Run enthusiasts, the Yellowstone event has become an annual must-attend affair with a beautiful setting and festival atmosphere.
Free to attend, the annual Rod Run event draws 400-to-600 street rods and classic cars from all over the United States. Come watch the classic cars parade through the center of town to Pioneer Park.
The Show and Shine event is the highlight of the day. Marvel at the details – unique and shiny paint jobs on these vintage classics. Spectators will enjoy seeing Model T’s, muscle cars, chopped rods, Cadillacs, delivery vans and fancy old cars with even fancier hood ornaments. Enjoy music, food, beverages and more!
More than 90 sponsor trophies are awarded for this show, along with a giant raffle and poker ride for participants.
West Yellowstone Rodeo
THROUGH AUGUST 16, 2025
West Yellowstone Rodeo is held just outside of town near the Idaho Border. Performances are held five to six days a week through August 16. As the decades have gone by, so have the performances of the West Yellowstone Rodeo. They pride themselves as a family-owned establishment and strive for the ultimate family-fun experience that Montana has to offer. Child tickets (ages 3-11) are $10. Adult tickets (12 and over) are $20. To purchase tickets visit www.westyellowstonerodeo.com/ tickets.
On select days of the year, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these National Park entrance fee-free dates in 2025!
August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
September 27: National Public Lands Day
November 11: Veterans Day
Keeping it Real
Five Life Lessons We’ve Learned from Rafting
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY BLAIR FJESETH
There’s a moment on the river when everything goes still . . . the raft quiet, the kids wide-eyed, the current holding its breath. It only lasts a second before the rush returns, but it’s there, and it’s sacred. That moment is why we keep rafting every summer, throwing ourselves into the wild unpredictability of water and weather, wet snacks and sibling squabbles. Somewhere between put-in and take-out, we’re not just floating, we’re learning.
Reflecting back, I’ve come to realize that rafting has taught our family more about life than I ever imagined. It’s like the wisest creature in the woods, Winnie the Pooh, once said, “We didn’t realize we were making memories. We just knew we were having fun.”
1. You can’t control the river, only your paddle.
Life, like water, doesn’t care about your agenda. Rapids come when they want, and sometimes they don’t come at all. We have encountered fallen trees and moments when the river dried up and we had to hop out to drag the monstrosity of a raft to deeper waters. The same happens at home: We can’t control everything (despite our color-coded calendars), but we can choose how we respond. Are we digging in with teamwork? Or just drifting and hoping it all works out?
2. Rafting is more fun when you trust your fellow floaters.
There’s nothing quite like hearing your 12-year-old shout “HOLD ON!” like a
tiny pirate as the raft lunges into a wave. Rafting reminds us that going through chaos is easier when you trust the people in the boat. Off the river, it’s easy to forget we’re on the same team. But when we communicate, really communicate, there’s a rhythm to life that feels a lot like paddling in sync. I find that we hit a stride in finally “getting in the zone” on communication, and then, suddenly, something changes with our schedules or kids’ personalities, and we have to restart. This is my constant “How can I improve?”
3. Dry clothes are overrated.
The first time a kid inevitably falls in the water—or jumps in because they “accidentally” needed to wrestle their brother off the side—we panic. But eventually, we stop caring so much and we encourage our kids to get in, get wet and live the adventure. Rafting (and parenting) teaches us to embrace the mess. The best stories often begin where the plan falls apart, and sometimes super soggy towels are just part of the adventure.
4. There’s no cell service in the good parts.
And thank goodness. There’s something about the stillness of a canyon, the shimmer of sunlight off the water or a fiveminute rock-skipping contest that reminds us: This is it. Rafting gives us permission to unplug from everything that doesn't matter and reconnect with what does. We've never once missed a notification that mattered
more than the laughter echoing off the cliffs. Sometimes, being off the grid is the best way to reconnect with each other— and with ourselves.
5. Eventually, you have to get out and carry the raft.
Every trip has a moment when it’s time to pull the raft up a hill or haul it back to the car. No one wants to do it. Everyone complains. But we do it anyway—together. Life is full of “carry-the-raft” moments: the hard stuff we wish we could skip. But those are the times our kids learn perseverance, strength and what it means to show up for each other—even when it’s heavy. And just like the river, those moments teach us that we never float the same way twice. The tough parts always make us stronger.
Rafting hasn’t made us perfect by any stretch (our cooler organization remains questionable), far from it. It has, however, taught us how to show up, how to listen to the current and how to laugh when someone loses a sandal to the river gods.
So, this summer, if you find yourself stuck in an eddy of exhaustion or wondering if you’re doing it “right,” just remember: paddle together, embrace the splash and enjoy the ride.
Blair Fjeseth is a working professional and proud Montana mom. You can reach her at blairparker.inc@gmail.com.
Ask Flora
WRITTEN BY FLORA MCCORMICK
In this column, you can ask your questions about parenting kids from ages 2 to 10 to Flora McCormick, Licensed Counselor & Parenting Coach.
Q: How can I build a closer relationship with my child? I feel like all I have time for is feeding them and putting them to bed – outside of our battles and arguments. Help!
A: Here’s the good news: Connection doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or a long stretch of quality time. In fact, the most meaningful connections are often built in the smallest moments. And you don’t need to overhaul your schedule or add another thing to your alreadyfull plate.
Let’s explore three powerful—but simple— ways to increase connection with your child. These small shifts can bring more laughter, cooperation and closeness to your everyday parenting rhythm.
1. The Rule of Six: Six Minutes and Six Hugs Each Day
Follow the Rule of Six: Aim for six minutes of focused connection and six hugs each day. At the heart of the Rule of Six is a beautifully doable reminder that small, consistent gestures make a big difference.
Virginia Satir, a renowned family therapist, once said, “We need four hugs a day for survival. We need eight hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.” To start, make it a simpler goal with six hugs a day to grow your connection in a very doable way.
These micro-moments are a super effective way to build connection and attachment, and they accumulate to create positive connection as the child experiences being authentically seen and enjoyed.
2. Lean Into More Creative Conversation Prompts
Want more connection at the dinner table, in the car or at a restaurant? Stop asking, “How was your day?” and start asking things like: “Would you rather fight a dragon or be a dragon?” Or, “Do you think our family rules are fair? Are there any rules you would change if you were the parent?”
Many parents in my counseling practice tell me they are frustrated that their kids won’t sit at the table, answer questions about the school day or stop fighting in the car. I’ve found that adding playfulness and creativity into these moments increases joy, laughter and cooperation at these otherwise challenging times. You can Google a list of questions online or purchase packs of questions called “Table Topics” or other brands.
3. See Your Child’s Behavior as Communication
When a child is defiant, whiny or refusing to cooperate, it’s often not because they’re trying to give you a hard time; it’s because they are having a hard time. Connecting with them in a genuine way is the best and quickest pathway out of the struggle.
As psychologist John Gottman puts it, “Empathy is the first most important step to bring someone from where they are, to where you want them to be.”
Let’s say your child won’t put away their toys or get in the car. You’re getting frustrated and tempted to yell or issue a consequence. But what if you paused and connected first?
You might kneel down to their level and say: “I get it, it’s hard to stop playing when you’re having so much fun.” Or, “Ugh, putting away your toys is the worst sometimes, huh? I know that feeling.”
After you find the moment of connection by getting on their level and meeting them where they are, you follow through with the original ask. It allows you to lead with empathy, not authority and achieve the same result with less struggle.
Start small.
» Try one of these three strategies today, even if just for a minute.
» Hug them when they wake up.
» Ask a silly question at dinner.
» Offer empathy before a boundary.
When we make connection a daily habit, it slowly reshapes the entire tone of our homes — from power struggles to more cooperation, from disconnection to deep trust.
Flora McCormick is a Licensed Counselor and Parenting Coach at SustainableParenting.com. She helps parents bridge the gap between overly gentle and overly harsh parenting by combining kindness and firmness in realistic, sustainable ways. She is also the host of the Sustainable Parenting Podcast, offering bite-sized weekly strategies to help you feel like the calm, confident parent you want to be.
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 @MontanaParentMagazine on Facebook (if you don't already!)
3. Follow @gallatinice on Facebook too!
Enter for a chance to score two season tickets for the entire Bozeman Icedogs 2025–26 home season ~ 22 games of high-energy Junior A hockey, all season long! $290 value
Winner will be chosen at random and announced September 1. Must be 18 years of age to enter.
aug 2025 For more information about Gallatin Ice, visit: www.gallatinice.org
