Teaching children the value and rewards of hard work and earning their own money is an integral part of helping them to develop into responsible adults. Through this, they gain selfesteem, learn the real value of a dollar, and develop better saving and spending habits.
Share the list of jobs below with your pre-teens or teens for a variety of ways they can cash in this summer – and potentially even into the school year.
The grass is always greener – Soak up the sun, get fit, and make spare cash than mowing lawns. Create fliers, and be sure to mention that you live in the neighborhood. Determine your fees based upon yard size, but try to keep the rates below the cost of professional services. Also, don't forget to include your phone number. Then, deliver the fliers to the homes in your neighborhood. You can lodge them between doorknobs or tuck them under doormats. Just don't place anything in mailboxes because it's illegal.
Young entrepreneur – Make the most of your neighbors' garage sales by setting up a refreshment stand in your front yard during their sales times. You'll need a small table and a handmade sign such as, "Cookies and Lemonade - 50 cents each." Set out a pitcher of lemonade or punch, disposable cups, and wrapped cookies. At the end of the sale, total your
profits. If you have friends helping you, make sure to divide the profits evenly.
Too old for toys and games? – If so, clean out those you’ve outgrown, and hold a sale. Make a cardboard or wooden sign to attract neighborhood children and passersby. Then, place blankets in your front yard, and spread out your goods. Keep your prices reasonable. Don’t forget to put out a “25-cent box” filled with odds and ends that you sell for a quarter each.
Child care – Are you old enough to stay home alone? If so, you may be ready to babysit for other children. Spread the word through family, friends, and neighbors. Once you've gained experience, post fliers on the library, grocery, or laundromat bulletin boards. When babysitting, play games, and do activities with the children. Avoid talking on the phone or watching TV. Parents love sitters who keep their little ones busy. Also, don't forget to clean up and wash dirty dishes.
A little dirt never hurt – Garage cleaning is a big chore, especially for seniors, or anyone who just doesn't have the time. Offer your services to relatives and neighbors. When you get a job, be thorough. Move everything into the driveway or yard before you begin. Remove cobwebs with a broom. Sweep ledges and the garage floor. Then, hose the garage concrete (with permission) to loosen ground-in dirt. When it’s dry, neatly arrange everything back into the garage.
Fence finishing – Wood fencing requires ongoing maintenance. Offer to help your neighbors spruce up their yards by painting or staining their fences. The homeowner should supply the paint or stain and the necessary tools. Be sure to follow their directions. Also, take your time and do a careful job.
Window washing – Offering your services for this dreaded task is sure to be a success. If you get the job, make sure your parents know the homeowner and approve of you going inside. Clean the interiors of all windows, including doors. Also, don't forget to open the windows and clean the ledges and tracks. Offer to do exterior windows if you're tall enough to reach them without a ladder. Ask permission to hose them down to remove loose dirt. Then wash and dry them by hand.
Stories & Special Features
2: Money-Making Ideas for Tweens and Teens During Summer
8: Getting Up Close and Personal with Native Wildlife
10: Teaching Kids Good Saving Habits Leads to Greater Financial Stability as an Adult
28: Help! My Child IS the Bully
39: Museum Dedicates Brick to Fundraising First-Graders
40: A Day for Dad: Make This Father's Day One He'll Remember
44: We Rock the Spectrum!
Features
6: Kids' Coloring Page
14: Let's Read!
16: Kids' Crossword
18: Albuquerque Kids! Calendar
25: Santa Fe Kids! Calendar
32: Summer Fun! Activities Directory
42: Let's Draw!
48: Young Scientist
52: Young Historian
@ NEWMEXICOKIDS
If you would like to submit art to be considered for a New Mexico Kids! cover, please email a copy to kids@newmexico-kids.com or send a snapshot of the work to Prime Time Publishing, 111 Iron Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102. Don't forget to include your phone number!
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Calendar Editor
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Customer Relations
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New Mexico Kids! is published bimonthly by Prime Time Publishing, 111 Iron Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102. Phone 505-967-7812. Email kids@newmexico-kids.com. Copyright 2023/2024 by Prime Time Publishing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Locally and Women Owned. Printed by the Santa Fe New Mexican with soy-based recyclable inks.
The Publisher does not take responsibility for the accuracy or legitimacy of the advertiser’s message or that of the guest writer/ columnists or any aspect of the business operation or conduct of the advertisers in the paper.
Albuquerque & Santa Fe
J u l y 2 0 | 1 0 : 0 0 A M - 4 : 0 0 P M F A M I L Y F U N D A Y
e a t s i n v i t e s y o u t o F a m i l y F u n D a y !
O n c e a y e a r , w e o p e n o u r g a t e s a n d w e l c o m e a l l o f o u r f r i e n d s a n d n e i g h b o r s f r o m
l o c a l c o m m u n i t i e s f o r a v i s i t E x p e r i e n c e a t a s t e o f c a m p f o r t h e w h o l e f a m i l y R e g i s t e r t o d a y f o r d i s c o u n t e d p r i c i n g !
Pepper the racoon is a favorite among visitors to the New Mexico Wildlife Center in Española, and he didn’t disappoint a group of third graders from Atalaya Elementary School on a field trip earlier this year.
Pepper was a young adult when he became an animal ambassador at the center in 2019 after being confiscated by New Mexico state officials who found him being kept illegally as a pet. Now, he is one of the stars of special sessions that allow visitors to get up close with wildlife and learn more about birds and other animals.
In one of the center’s Animal Encounter programs, the students from Atalaya in Santa Fe watched a short training session with Pepper, an excellent climber who can follow a target pole around his habitat. They also learned about raccoons, which are common mammals in New Mexico and often found in urban areas. They are intelligent, mostly nocturnal and eat both plants and animals.
“They loved it,” said teacher Ana Wooldridge. “The kids really connect when they see the animals live.”
The students had been working on a unit centered on informational texts in which they studied animals, wrote a report and read “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate to learn about animals in captivity. The field trip to the Wildlife Center was the final part of that unit and taught
them how they can help wildlife.
“It’s really important for students to make that connection and see that there is a way to help animals and get some empowerment,” Wooldridge said, adding that the kids learned that if they find a bird with a broken wing or another animal that needs help, they can work with an adult to get the creature to the Wildlife Center.
Other groups — including Wildlife Rescue, Inc. of New Mexico in Albuquerque — also rehabilitate wild birds and animals.
As part of the field trip, the students also had an Animal Encounter with Amelia the American kestrel out on a trainer’s glove, saw other wildlife and looked at snakeskin under a microscope.
In addition to offering education programs, the nonprofit New Mexico Wildlife Center takes in injured and orphaned animals and works to rehabilitate them so they can be returned to the wild. The onsite wildlife hospital treats 650 to 900 animals of more than 100 species a year.
The center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children and free for those under 3.
“The overall experience of coming to the New Mexico Wildlife Center is a great opportunity to see these wild animals that people don’t get to see up close in the wild, to learn about the animals that live around us,” said Education Coordinator Beth Thompson. “We always are encouraging people to think about ‘Do these animals live around my house, too?’”
The Animal Encounter programs are held at 11:30 a.m. each day and allow visitors to meet one of the roughly 20 ambassador animals up close. Visitors also can stroll the selfguided tour trail to see more animals and learn about them through informational signs that offer details about the individuals, where the species is found in New Mexico and more.
Members of the education team give a talk about each animal and why it is at the center as well as information about what people can do to protect their habitats.
“It’s a chance to see one of the ambassadors a little
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more up close or to talk with the educator working with that animal,” Thompson said, adding that the program is well suited for kids, who often have more questions than adults.
Visitors might see a raptor training session, watch the bobcat being fed or touch a reptile. The animals are trained to take part in their own care as much as possible, Thompson said. That means they might be trained to follow a target stick so the staff can move them around their enclosure. Raptors are trained to stand on a scale and to fly to different perches. Juniper the gray fox goes for walks on leash, which allows her to explore a greater area than her enclosure.
Popular ambassador animals include Patches, an inquisitive Western box turtle who arrived at the center with multiple shell punctures that never fully healed, and Joni, a bobcat who was orphaned when her mother was killed by a javelina. Several hawks, eagles and two black-billed magpies also are among the ambassadors.
“All of these animals are non-releasable either because of an injury or because they’re too used to humans and it would be dangerous for them and for humans,” Thompson said.
Visitors should plan to spend 30-60 minutes visiting the animals, including 10-30 minutes for an Animal Encounter program. There also are pagodas and tables along the trail for
8AM - 11AM
12PM - 3PM
Twenty percent of young adults in the U.S. aged 18 to 24 have debt in collections, according to a 2022 Urban Institute report, "What Can Policymakers Do to Help Young Adults Cope with Debt?” Debt at this stage of young adults' lives can be especially difficult to manage, not only because of their lack of experience but also due to limited incomes and higher interest rates.
Therefore, educating kids on how to use credit cards responsibly is crucial to their future financial well-being. The good news is that those who learn and develop good saving habits early in life are more prepared to deal with what lies ahead.
The younger set
Begin teaching your child the concept of money, including the values of coins, starting at the ages of 4 to 6. During this time, keep it simple. Allow your child to earn money to save in a piggy bank for small chores.
It’s all elementary
By the time your child is 7, an allowance is essential to learning about money and developing good habits. Familiarize your kids with banking. Open a savings account, so they can watch their money grow. Also, help them set achievable goals, such as saving for a new toy or putting money away for holiday gifts.
Keep in mind, however, that many banks charge service fees unless a minimum balance is kept, and frequent trips to the bank may be impossible. As an alternative, set up your own “family bank.” Give your child a spare checkbook ledger or savings passbook. Then copy blank savings deposit and withdrawal slips from your bank for your kids to use. Require them to fill out the slips and log transactions in the ledger. Also, give your kids monthly interest for their savings so they can experience the immediate reward of saving money.
The teen scene
Designer clothing, entertainment and car expenses are the most significant areas of teen spending. Some teens also put away money for college. But few are prepared for the adult world, says developmental psychologist Nancy J. Cobb in “Adolescence: Continuity, Change, and Diversity.” That's because most teens aren't primed for the responsibility of paying for food, housing and health care costs.
Teens who are involved with the family budget and contribute to family expenses learn a valuable lesson. Showing teens the spending categories in which they have a direct impact on family expenses is helpful.
Also, agree on a reasonable amount which your teens can contribute to help cover those expenses. It will go a long way toward preparing adolescents for adulthood.
KIDZ KAMPZ
Ages 3 - 8
9:30am - 11:30am
SESSION I: June 10 - 13
SESSION II: July 8 - 11
SESSION III: July 22 - 25
One Session: $90 plus Tax
Two or More Sessions: 10% OFF
Extended care before and after camps! 8:30am - 12:30pm for $50.00 additional per week
(ONE SESSION: $90 plus tax or $130 with the extended care)
ADVANCED INTENSIVE
ALL AGES experienced for these levels LEVEL S 5 - 6 4:00pm - 7:00pm
SESSION I: June 17 - 21
SESSION II: July 15 - 19
ONE SESSION: $125 plus tax
1:00pm - 4:00pm SESSION I: June 17 - 21
SESSION II: June 24 - June 28 ONE SESSION: $125 plus
BOTH SESSIONS: 10%
Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary/Lyrical, Jazz/Musical Theatre, Pilates
Both Sessions: 10% Discount
*Single, drop-in classes $15 plus tax
Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary Lyrical, Jazz/Musical Theatre, Pilates SPECIAL GUEST ARTISTS
Whether teens contribute or not, their working hours should be limited to no more than 10 to 15 per week. According to Cobb, researchers have found adolescents who work, especially 20 or more hours per week, are not as engaged in school as their nonworking peers. Based on various studies, this shortchanges students in the long term. If you restrict your teens' working hours to ensure success in school, it's good to provide an increased allowance for clothing and personal needs. You can then help your teens budget their money.
Still, there are many ways teens can learn the value of money and develop good habits. In fact, limiting teens' funds may force them to be more selective and make wiser financial decisions.
on Page 12)
Explore our flexible, dynamic, and innovative K-12 summer programs, which continue to be voted best in Albuquerque year after year. Visit bosqueschool.org to register today!
On the beautiful Chihenne Ranch, our program includes: horseback riding for all levels, hiking, arts & crafts, Indian lore, sports & games, rifle shooting, archery, cave and mine exploring, field trips, drama, skits and dancing. Hike at the Gila National Forest. Visit a turn of the century mine. Explore Ghost Towns. Contact: Greg Evans, Camp Director Email: 4jranch@zianet.com 575-743-1602 or 575-740-1778
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Tips your kids can bank on
Help your child develop good saving and spending habits in the following ways.
• Allow your kids to make some of their own spending decisions. Set reasonable limits, then offer appropriate guidance while giving them opportunities to learn from their mistakes.
• Don't loan your kids money every time they want it. But do offer occasional opportunities for them to learn the costs of borrowing and experience repaying a loan. When contemplating whether to give your child a loan and how much, consider the purpose of the loan and their ability to repay the loan within a reasonable time. Also, how have they handled repayment in the past?
• Be sure to charge interest on loans, so kids learn the cost of borrowing. Realize that, regardless of how financially savvy we raise our kids to be, borrowing does have its place. At the very least, it's often necessary or practical for acquiring a college education, reliable transportation and a home. These can be wise investments, even when borrowing is needed.
• Teach your child how to set financial goals. By the teen years, these may include those big-ticket items just mentioned. And don't overlook the importance of short-term
goals, which offer your kids a feeling of accomplishment and a boost in self-esteem.
• Require your child to put at least 10% of each paycheck, or allowance, into savings. It'll be much easier to adhere to as an adult if practiced during childhood and teen years.
• Don't be completely secretive about family finances. Kids have few opportunities to see and experience the financial side of the adult world. This doesn't mean you need, or even should, disclose everything. But it's easier for kids to understand money management if they can see it in concrete terms. Develop a detailed household budget. Then explain it so your adolescent can see how your family spends and why.
• Discuss the ways in which you save and invest your own money. Explain how these different plans work and point out both the benefits and the risks.
• Have your kids visit www.themint.org. They'll learn about money, goal setting, saving, investing and more.
• Try a computer program such as Family Bank by ParentWare to help your kids track their allowances, expenses, loans and more. Family Bank calculates interest for both savings and loans, allows kids to write checks to their parents and creates graphs of their spending habits. Visit download.cnet.com/ Family-Bank/3000-2132_4-10077035.html.
book reviews were written by Christine Laffler's 4th
Drawing Deena
Author: Hena Kahn
Publisher: Salaam Reads / Simon & Schuster
Books for Young Readers Ages 8-12
Drawing Deena is a very well written chapter book about a 12-year old girl named Deena. Deena dreams of being an artist like her favorite artist Vincent Van Gogh but her mom wants her to focus more on school work than art. She wants Deena to have a practical career, especially because money has always been a big problem in her family. In fact, it's such a big problem that her mom sells Pakistani clothes to the local aunties to make extra money. When Deena discovers a way to help her mom with her business and pursue her artistic passions; she doesn't hesitate! That means she has to venture into social media, with help from her cousin Parisa, Deena soon gets the hang of social media. It's all going well, but when her relationship with her art and cousin changes, Deena gets increasingly anxious. Can Deena find a way to turn the messiness of life into something beautiful? Or will she be stuck in a swirling tornado of anxiety forever?
By Addi D., age 10
Kazoo
Authors: Jacqueline Woodson, Annie Barrows, Karina Yan Glaser.
Publisher: Erin Bried Ages: 5-12
Are you a girl that likes to make noise? Well we do, too! The Kazoo magazine teaches girls like us to be brave, confident, and to have fun! The magazines we are reviewing are called The Girl Power issue, The Brave Issue and The Storytellers issue. We believe that girls should read these magazines because they are awesome! They include fun activities like word scrambles, mazes, and coloring pages to name a few. The magazines also include stories, comics, and recipes, too! The Girl Power issue even includes advice from Vice President Kamala Harris. We all loved this magazine and think all girls will love them, too!
By Charlotte W., Nila W., and Drew H-V., ages 9 & 10
Pelé King of Soccer/Pelé El Rey del Fútbol
Author: Monica Brown
Illustrator: Rudy Gutierrez
Publisher: HarperCollins Espanol; Bilingual edition
Ages: 4-8
Have you ever heard of Pelé? Pelé is a person who loves soccer. When he was a little boy his family was very poor so sometimes he worked by shining shoes and selling meat pies to help earn money. Every evening, no matter how tired they were, Pelé and his father, Dondinho, would play soccer in the streets. When Pelé was ten he found his father crying because Brazil lost the World Cup. “I will win the World Cup for you one day,” Pelé promised. One day Pelé got invited to try out for a professional soccer team. At fifteen, Pelé became the youngest player on the Santos soccer team. Finally, it was time for Pelé to play soccer in his first professional match and when he was seventeen years old, Pelé played in his first World Cup final for Brazil! This book is written in both English and Spanish and has amazing illustrations, too!
By: Calisto H. age 10
Author: Kathleen Dorherty
Illustrator: Kristyna Litten
Publisher: Peachtree Publishing Company Inc.
Ages: 4-8
The Twist-A-Roo is an amazing remake of the story of the ant and the grasshopper. In this story, the winter is coming and Badger needs to get ready for it by storing food for the long cold season. But Badger is too busy playing with a shiny and colorful Twist-a-Roo! Can Badger get ready in time? Read The Twist-A-Roo to find out! (I know that the recommended age is 4-8 but I am 10 and I loved it!)
By Samara K., age 10
Author: Nicholas Aragon
Illustrator: Natalia Junqueira
Publisher: Curly Crow
Ages: 4-8
In this book, Curly Crow gets a haircut is a book to tell kids not to be scared of getting a haircut! Curly is worried about her curly hair and concerned that no one will recognize her! Her dad helps her stay calm and she conquers her fears. The Curly Crow books are meant to help people's spirit through art. Curly Crow books are about: identity and trust, dealing with bullies, stress and anxiety, patience and persistence, and facing your fears. The author is a native New Mexican, too, and there are seven Curly Crow books to read.
Written by Vita P. age 10, and Rocco O., age 10
Susie Clark: The Bravest Girl You’ve Ever Seen
Author: Joshalyn Hickey-Johnson
Illustrator: Halye Calvin
Publisher: BookBaby Ages 3-10
This book is very, very sweet (and very important). Susie Clark was 13 when she became the first Black student to integrate a public school. The Iowa Supreme Court gave all children in Iowa the right to attend public school regardless of their race, religion, or nationality in 1868! I really like how this book shows young people what it was like back then when black people couldn't go to nice schools. I love how the author encourages us to keep trying even when times are hard or when people are mean to us. The pictures are very well drawn and very detailed. I also love some of the rhymes that the author put in this book. Something that I really liked was when Susie's grandmother said “It’s okay to cry! Cry tonight and get it all done. With the new morning there will be a new sun.” That really reminded me that it's always going to be okay. If you want to see how Susie gets through a tough school year, try out this book!
ByMax P., age 9
Explore God’s MONUMENTAL greatness this summer at VBS!
June 24 - 28; 9am - 12:30pm (including lunch daily)
$25/Child (sibling discounts available)
Early Bird by 6/1 = $20/Child
Contact Us: (505) 883-9717 or childrensdirector@stjohns-abq.org
5111 Homestead Circle NW
5111 Homestead Circle NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120
Albuquerque, NM 87120
1st Class Learning Center is a childcare center licensed by the State of New Mexico.
• NOW Hiring all positions!
1st Class Learning Center is a childcare center licensed by the State of New Mexico.
• Quality childcare 6 weeks to 12 years.
• New Mexico Pre-K slots available.
• Quality childcare 6 weeks to 12 years.
• ECECD subsidized care available, no sales tax charged.
• Reasonable prices & discounts.
• ECECD subsidized care available, no sales tax charged.
• Reasonable prices & discounts.
• FOCUS Pre-K & NM Pre-K.
• FOCUS & NM Pre-K.
• Age appropriate curriculum through FOCUS & NM Pre-K.
• Age appropriate curriculum through FOCUS & NM Pre-K.
• Nutritional meals mandated by CACFP, included in the price.
• Nutritional meals mandated by CACFP, included in the price.
• All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and background cleared.
• All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and background cleared.
• Staff also takes childcare training mandated by ECECD.
• Staff also takes childcare training mandated by ECECD.
COVID-19 safe practices!
COVID-19 safe practices!
Please feel free to visit our newly renovated center in Taylor Ranch, across the street from LBJ Middle School. (505) 898-5702
Please feel free to visit our newly renovated center in Taylor Ranch, across the street from LBJ Middle School. (505) 898-5702
1stclasslearningcenter@gmail.com 1stclasslearningcenter.com facebook.com/1stClassLearningCenter
1stclasslearningcenter@gmail.com 1stclasslearningcenter.com facebook.com/1stClassLearningCenter
Ourmissionistomeetyourneeds!
Do You need...
Do You need...
•
• A safe, caring learning environment?
• Remote,
and in-person courses to meet your personal learning styles and schedule needs?
• Remote, blended, and in-person courses to meet your personal learning styles and schedule needs?
• Want to graduate early? Need a little more time?
• Want to graduate early? Need a little more time?
• A mentor to help keep you on track?
• A mentor to help keep you on track?
• A solid focus on academics in a caring environment?
• A solid focus on academics in a caring environment?
• Credit for work, volunteering, and internships?
• Credit for work, volunteering, and internships?
• Rapid credit recovery for lost credits to put you back on track?
• Rapid credit recovery for lost credits to put you back on track?
a call at 505-222-4360!
stop by and see the school and
Albuquerque
SUMMER CLASSES @ KESHET CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Classes in Contemporary, Ballet, Mixed Ability, and more! Summer Session runs June 11 - August 3, 2024 (no classes July 1-7) Ages 8-18, all levels and abilities! Registration ongoing!
CAMPS @ KESHET CENTER FOR THE ARTS!
Little Movers Camp (Ages 4-5), June 17-21, 9am-12pm
Lots to choose from: Daily or weekly classes, youth dance campsand outdoor dance classes, too!
All classes and camps are offered on a sliding scale/unlimited noncompetitive scholarship payment system!
Dance Sampler (Ages 6-8), June 17-21, 1pm-4pm Contemporary, Choreography and Ballet (Ages 9-18), July 15-19, 9am-4pm
OUTDOOR CLASSES
June 11 - August 3 (no class July 3 or 6)
Wednesdays 5:00-6:00pm and/or Saturdays 9:30-10:30am
Just $0-$20 sliding scale per class!
Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but dates, times, places & prices of events can change, so be sure to call ahead. Events listed are child- and teen-appropriate to the best of our knowledge. As families have different ideas of “age-appropriate,” we encourage you to confirm that any activity you attend is appropriate for your child. To have your events listed for free in our next calendar, fill out the calendar form at newmexico-kids.com or send the date, time, place, cost, description of the activity, sponsoring organization, and contact phone number to kids@newmexico-kids.com. The deadline is June 10 for listings in the July/August calendar. Listings are not guaranteed due to space limits. Phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.
May 8, Diamond Art Coasters, 4-5:30pm. Learn how to do diamond art, and make something to take home, ages 9-17. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 2916295, abqlibrary.org/events.
May 11, Mother’s Day BathBombs, 10:30-11:30am. Bring mom or a mother figure to this workshop and make a one-ofa-kind bath bomb. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org/ events.
May 11, Mother’s Day Card Event, 10:30am-noon. Make a card to show a loved one your appreciation: for a mother, grandmother, father, or other; all ages, card options for adults and children, registration is not required. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE, 7641742, abqlibrary.org/events.
May 14, Arte para chiquitos, 10-10:45am. Children up to age four and caregivers can explore creativity and self-expression through Hispanic/Latine arts and culture. Participants can explore the museum, and the PAC and enjoy artmaking, music, movement, dance, drama, and bilingual storytime. Free, Salón Ortega, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org/events.
May 18, Friendship Medallions, 3:30-5:30pm. Make tokens of friendship before summer vacation, all materials provided (while supplies last), ages 5+. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8801 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary.org/events.
May 24, Origami Adventures, 4-5pm. Explore the world of Japanese paper folding, ages 6+ (younger children will need a helper); all materials provided, no registration required. Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 836-0684, abqlibrary.org/ events.
Tinkertown Museum is now open 10am-4pm Fris, Sats, Suns & Mons. More than 50,000 glass bottles form this 22room museum with eccentric collections of Americana. Free up to age 3/$3 ages 4-16/$6 adults (last ticket sold at 3:30pm), 121 Sandia Crest, 281-5233, tinkertown.com
May 2, Coding Battle Bots!, 5-6pm. Learn the basics of coding and the fundamentals of app design while battling bots; for grades 5+. Free, South Valley Library, 3904 Isleta NW, 877-5170, abqlibrary.org/events.
May 11, Sensory Friendly Time at Explora, 5:30-7pm. A low-sensory hour with special adaptations for quieter visits including limited attendance, full-immersion sensory kits, noise & light reduction, and calming spaces. Included with admission, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.
May 14, Arte Para Chiquitos, 10-10:45am. An early childhood program for babies and toddlers up to age 4 and their caregiver that cultivates creativity and selfexpression through exploration of Hispanic/Latine arts and culture with art making, music, movement, dance, drama, and bilingual storytime. Free, NHCC, Domenici Education Building, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm. org/events.
May 18, Heritage Day, 10am4pm. Celebrate local heritage with an event exhibiting the living traditions of NM; engage in local historical activities. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov/artsculture/ albuquerque-museum/events.
May 17-18, Magnify’s 10th Anniversary Showcase: “Through The Decades,” 6:30pm, Fri; 11am, Sat. An array of dance styles and
past and present musical hits with highlights performed by Magnify Dance Ensemble. A portion of proceeds will benefit Casa Esperanza. $20-$27, NHCC, ABQ Journal Theatre, 1701 4th SW 724-4771, nhccnm.org/events.
Ongoing, “In Their Words: Stories by Women on the Ground and In the Air.” This exhibit explores how women in ballooning are connected to the past through stories, records, family traditions, and magical feats. Free, 5 and under/$3 ages 6-17, $4, 65+/$5 NM Resident/$6, AndersonAbruzzo Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, 768-6020, balloonmuseum.com/museum_ events.
May 1-24, Homeschool Teen Artwork. See the talent of local homeschool students. Free, Esther Bone Memorial Library, 950 Pinetree SE, RR, 891-5012, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital.
May 5, Public Opening: “Focus on Youth,” 9am-5pm; awards ceremony 2pm. An annual juried exhibit of photographs and films created by high school students from APS with nearly 100 photos and short films. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov/artsculture/ albuquerque-museum/events.
May 11, “Conserving America’s Wildlands” Opening. A picture of deep history found in wild places and the value of conservation captured by the son of Ted Turner; plus 35 preserved specimens from the Cretaceous period through today. Included with admission, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain, 8412800, nmnaturalhistory.org/ calendar.
May 11-12, 27th Annual Placitas Studio Tour, 10am-5pm. This tour features 79 artists who live or have a studio in Placitas. They will open their studio doors and share their work in media like steel,
pottery, fiber, photography, and mixed media. See website for full details. Free, Multiple Locations, Placitas, placitasstudiotour.org.
May 4, ABQ Turkish Festival, 11am-7pm. Sample TurkishMediterranean Cuisine, cultural exhibits, a whirling dervish, and a children's and arts & crafts area. Free, Raindrop Foundation Turkish Cultural Center, 7901 Mountain NE, fb.me/e/ZkiBADAa.
May 4, Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Festival, 10am-3pm. Cultural performances, music, Japanese floral arrangements, and Chinese art activities. $11-$17, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org/visit/events.
May 4, May the Force Be With You Celebration, 4:30-9pm. Join for a costume contest, vendor, and a raffle. Free, Urbanmama505, 1014 Central SW, Studio A, visitalbuquerque. org/event/may-the-force-be-withyou-celebration/56396.
May 4, 5, Rio Grande Valley Celtic Festival, 9am-5pm. Enjoy Traditional Celtic dance, athletics, games, music, arts, history, regional entertainers, food and merchandise vendors, Celtic dogs, special children’s activities, and oral traditions that promote Celtic Heritage in NM. $15-$35, Balloon Fiesta Park, 9401 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy, 453-0053, celtfestabq.com.
May 5, Cinco de Mayo Folk Art Fest, 10am. This family event includes a costume pet parade, local artisans, a free piñata decorating workshop, live music, and food. See the event schedule on website. Free, La Parada & Farm and Table, 8817 4th NW, 333-9336, shoplaparada.com/ cinco-de-mayo-folk-art-fest.
May 6, 7, Wind Festival, 10am6pm. Kites will fill the skies; visitors can bring a kite, buy one at the festival, or watch
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professional stunt kite fliers. There will be a kite flying contest, demos, and vendors; zoo admission not included. Free, Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 N Frontage Rd., Edgewood, 2817655, wildlifewest.org.
May 12, Mother’s Day in Old Town, 1-5pm. Celebrate with food, shopping, music, and a kids’ 25-foot climbing wall. Animal welfare will have adoptable pets with fees waived, including spay/ neuter, microchip, vaccinations, first vet visit, and one free training class. Free, Old Town ABQ, cabq. gov/artsculture/historic-oldtown/mothers-day-in-old-town.
May 16, Third Thursday: Nuclear Communities of the SW, 5-8:30pm. Live music by an ABQ band dedicated to the sound and spirit of Native American and Reggae music. Art activities, gallery exhibits, food & drink. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq. gov/artsculture/albuquerquemuseum/events.
May 18, Corrales Tractor Club Annual Antique Tractor Show, 9am-4pm. Food, crafts vendors, live music, antique tractors, cars, and machines. Free to attend/$10 to register vintage iron/ride for the show, Corrales Recreational Center, 500 Jones, Corrales, visitalbuquerque.org/event/ corrales-tractor-club-annualantique-tractor-show/56271.
May 20, 21, Art and Fiber Festival, 10am-6pm. Vendors, competitions, workshops, a kids’ hands-on booth, demos, food and music. See website for full details. Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 N Frontage, Edgewood, 281-7655, wildlifewest.org, heartofnmfiberandartgathering. com.
Area libraries offer activities like Lego Club, book groups, Read to the Dogs, movies, craft clubs, science groups and live music. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org/ events, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital, placitaslibrary. com.
Esperanza Bicycle Safety Clinic, various times, and ABQ library locations. A pop-up clinic focusing on bicycle education to increase the safety, self-sufficiency, and comfort of recreational, fitness, and utility riders. Bicycle safety checks and basic bicycle maintenance will be taught. Free, various ABQ libraries, abqlibrary. org/events.
May 2, Star Wars @ Your Library, 4:30-6:30pm. It's Star Wars time at the library. Join to discover your Star Wars Name and create crafts. A scavenger hunt will help you explore the library like a true Jedi Master. All materials provided, while supplies last, ages 5-12. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8801 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary.org/events.
May 4, Cinco De Mayo Fiesta, 10:30am-12:30pm. Celebrate with music, lotería, and crafts with families in the community; ages 3-18. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5141, abqlibrary. org/events.
May 4, Free Comic Book Day, 2-4pm. Choose a free comic book during the national celebration of comic books & graphic novels and create a decoupage souvenir; all ages, while supplies last. Free, Los Griegos Library, 1000 Griegos NW, 761-4020, abqlibrary.org/events.
May 4, Placitas Star Party and Star Talk, 6pm. Start with a solar viewing with different telescopes; at 7pm, enjoy a presentation of the important stars that will be visible - Jupiter, Uranus, Sirius, double stars, and star clusters; all ages. Free, Placitas Community Library, 453 Hwy 165, Placitas, 867-3355, placitaslibrary.com.
May 18, Bilingual Ranger Read and Learn, 10am-noon. Join Park Rangers from Coronado Historic Sites who will teach children and their families about the sites, archaeology, agriculture, and astronomy. Children can listen to a story, learn about the past, and make educational crafts to take home; all ages. Free, Martha Liebert Public Library, 124 Calle Malinche, Bernalillo, 867-5351, townofbernalillo.evanced.info/ signup/calendar.
May 18, Summer Reading Program Kick-Off & Smokey Bear’s Birthday Celebration, 1-3pm. This summer reading registration party will feature a treasure hunt, cake, raffle, and prizes. Free, Placitas Community Library, 453 HWY 165, 8673355, placitaslibrary.com/event/ summer-reading-program-kick-off.
May 3, Dances and Variations, 7:30pm. The final concert series of the 51st season featuring Mozart's Idomeneo and Elgar's Enigma Variations, children welcome. Free, First Unitarian Church, 3701 Carlisle NE, 4337445 abqphil.org.
May 5, Dances and Variations, 3pm. The final concert series of the 51st season featuring Mozart's Idomeneo and Elgar's Enigma Variations, children welcome. Free, St. Therese Catholic Church, 3424 4th NW, 433-7445, abqphil.org.
May 9, The Kipsies, 5pm. A folk band that makes modern music on traditional instruments. Free, South Valley Library, 3904 Isleta SW, 877-5170, abqlibrary.org/ events.
May 11, The Chill House Band w/ Hillary Smith, 6pm. Popular dance music, smooth/contemporary jazz, soul, R&B, and blues. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. A food truck will be there, but picnics and outside food are welcome. Free, Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors NW, ampconcerts. org/event/428494/open-spacevisitor-center-sunset-concert.
May 11, The Enchanters, 4-5pm. The group performs favorites from the ‘30s through the ‘90s, sung in four-part harmony. Free, Taylor Ranch Library, 5700 Bogart NW, 897-8816, abqlibrary.org/ events.
May 11, The Kipsies, 3-4pm. The Kipsies are from ABQ and make instruments from all over the world and will perform. Free, Special Collections Library, abqlibrary.org/events.
May 11, Sing Love! El Faro Youth Chorus Spring Concert, 2-3pm. The first trauma-informed choral ensemble will present songs from various musical traditions including spirituals, folk, classical, and contemporary. Free, Fusion | 708, 1st NW, fusionnm.org/ upcoming.
May 18, ABQ Civic Chorus, 2-3pm. A true community chorus of more than 50 singers with diverse backgrounds and musical experience. Enjoy a fun concert of Broadway and Big Band music. Free, Rudolfo Anaya North Valley Library, 7704-B 2nd NW, 8978823, abqlibrary.org/events.
Petroglyph National Monument has several guided hikes in May, see website for a full schedule, nps.gov/petr/planyourvisit/ calendar.htm.
May 3, Discovery Day: Powerful Pollinators, (ages 0-6), 10:3011:30am. Join an educator and have fun making discoveries about the natural world with hands-on science, story time, and an art project. Free, Taylor Ranch Library, 5700 Bogart NW, 768-4959, abq.gov/ parksandrecreation/open-space/ events.
May 4, Bosque Wild Guided Hike, 8-11am. Join nature guides on an adventure into ABQ’s open spaces. Free, Open Space Visitors Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-4950, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/ open-space/events.
May 4, Family Nature Club: Cottonwood Forest Creatures (all ages), 10am-noon. Join an Open Space educator for a familyfriendly hike and engage in handson learning together as a family, listen to natural history fun facts, enjoy storytelling, and seek out wildlife. Free, Candelaria Nature Preserve, west end of Arbor at the intersection of Rio Grande, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/ open-space/events.
May 5, Dawn to Dusk, 2-4pm. Visit with rescue birds from Wildlife Rescue, Inc. of NM. Free, Coronado Historic Site, 485 (continued on next page)
Kuaua Rd, Bernalillo, 771-0416, nmhistoricsites.org/coronado.
May 11, World Migratory Bird Day, 10am-2pm. Learn about native gardening to attract birds from ABQ Master Gardeners, the Native Plant Society of NM, and the ABQ Bonsai Club. Included with admission, ABQ BioPark, 848-7180, cabq.gov/artsculture/ biopark/events.
May 12, Mother’s Day at the Zoo, 9am-5pm. Celebrate Mother’s Day with various Zoo mothers and their little wild ones. Music, food for sale, or bring a picnic. See website for more information. cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark/ events.
May 18, Growing a Garden, 10am-noon. Explore the plants the people who lived at Kuaua and Jemez Pueblos grew in their gardens and listen to a bilingual story about corn at 10:30; all ages. Free, Martha Liebert Public Library, 124 Calle Malinche, Bernalillo, bernalillolibrary.org.
May 18, Kids to Parks Day Junior Ranger Activities, 10am. Kids can complete specialty Junior Ranger activities and earn unique badges. Free, Petroglyph National Monument, Information Center Patio, Western Trail NW, nps.gov/ petr/planyourvisit/calendar.htm.
May 18, NM Wildlife Demonstration, 1pm. NM Dept. of Game and Fish will give presentations on wildlife species of NM using skulls, hides, antlers, and horns, as well as photos. Free, Esther Bone Memorial Library, 950 Pinetree SE, RR, 8915012, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital.
May 4, Children’s Opera with Opera Unlimited for AAGTS, 10:30am. A private opera for gifted kids and the families via AAGTS. Abq Assc for Gifted & Talented Students. Opera is not just for adults. Opera-Unlimited. com is giving a private opera for gifted kids & their families via AAGTS.org. AAGTS does not require that kids be formally recognized as gifted by any school
or organization. Email info@ AAGTS.org to get your tickets. Let's get our gifted kids together. www.AAGTS.org.
May 4, “Puss in Boots,” 1:30 & 4:30pm. Armed with only a pair of boots and her wits, join the cleverest cat as she defeats an ogre and wins the hand of a young prince for her friend; presented by NM Young Actors. $12 ages 12 and under/$14, South Broadway Cultural Center, 1025 Broadway SE, 848-1320, nmyoungactors.org.
Stories & Music in the Sky, Wednesdays, 9:30-11am. An award-winning early childhood education programming featuring stories, music, movement, and art produced by the ABQ Balloon Museum; for ages up to 6. Stories are brought to life, and stories and music are shared from around the world in multiple languages by incorporating books, songs, fingerplays, and movement. Free, Anderson Abruzzo ABQ International Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, visitalbuquerque. org/event/stories-%26-music-inthe-sky/55549.
May 9, Pajama Party Storytime, 10:30-11:15am. Celebrate bedtime in the morning. Young children can come in their favorite pajamas and enjoy a fun way to develop early literacy skills with music, dancing, singing, stories, and exploration of simple musical concepts under a shady sycamore tree. Free, Ernie Pyle Library, 900 Girard SE, 256-2065, abqlibrary. org/events.
May 11, Animal Tales with the BioPark, 11am-noon. Hear the reading of an animal-related book; the BioPark will bring animals and biofacts that represent the animals in the stories for the kids to meet. Free, International District Library, 7601 Central NE, 768-4970, abqlibrary. org/events.
May 14, Pre-K Story Hour: “The Amazing Honeybees,” 10am. Stories, a game and craft, finger plays, and a honey snack; ages up
to 5. Free, Placitas Community Library, 453 HWY 165, Placitas, 867-3355, placitaslibrary.com/ event.
May 18, Animal Tales with the BioPark, 11am-noon. Hear the reading of an animal-related book; the BioPark will bring animals and biofacts that represent the animals in the stories for the kids to meet. Free, Ernie Pyle Library, 900 Girard SE, 256-2065, abqlibrary.org/events.
May 18, Storytelling Under the Cottonwood, 10:30amnoon. Hear wisdom tales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org/index. php/calendar.
May 21, Early Childhood Bilingual Storytime, 10-11am. Stories come to life through art and music. Readings will be from “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes/Cabeza, Hombros, Piernas Y Pies.” For ages 3-5 and caregivers, register online or by phone. Free, NHCC Library, History & Literary Arts Building, 1701 4th SW, 7244771, nhccnm.org/events.
May 1, WeTech: Rovers and Microbits, 5-8pm. Bring friends and build wheels that can navigate different terrains; ages 13-19. Free, Explora 1701 Mountain NW, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.
May 3, Roust the House + Rock 101 Music Academy Performance Night, 7-9pm. Performances featuring local teen bands and soloists from punk to piano to singer-songwriters, hip-hoppers, and spoken word artists. $3, Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE, outpostspace.org/ outpost-performance-space/ schedule.
May 4, Star Wars Day @ the Library, 2-5pm. What position in the Galactic Senate did Palpatine serve before he became Emperor? Test your Star Wars know-how at a trivia contest. Register a team of up to four players no later than May 2nd,
space is limited. There will be other celebrations in honor of the world of Star Wars. Costumes are encouraged; ages 13+. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8801 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary. org/events.
May 8, Teen Anime Club, 3:30pm. Ages 13-18 can join like-minded fans and enjoy new shows, and themed art and activities. Free, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 8915013, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital.
May 11, “The Bully Plays,” 1:30 & 3:30pm. This collection of short plays will challenge, inspire, enlighten, and help confront the issue of bullying constructively and creatively; recommended for ages 12 and up. $14, The Vortex Theater, 2900 Carlisle NE, nmyoungactors.org.
May 15, Teen Advisory Group (TAG), 3:30pm. Help brainstorm and create teen programs like Escape Rooms and Haunted Houses, recommend books, and learn how the library works behind the scenes; for ages 13-18. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 8915013, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital.
May 6, APS Family Resource Fair for Social Communication Supports, 5-6:30pm. Parents/ guardians of APS Pre-K-high school students in Social Communication classrooms can stop by and check out the Explora table, and enjoy light snacks and refreshments. Free, APS City Center, 6400 Uptown, aps. edu/special-education/parentresource-and-engagementprogram-prep/prep-events/ family-resource-fair-for-socialcommunication-supports.
May 17, Explora Adult Night: “Pirateology,” 6-9pm. Make a pirate boat and race it in the "high seas," learn how to knot like a sailor and find some hidden treasure; food and drink for purchase; 18+ event. $14, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 6006072, explora.us/events/adultnight-piratetology.
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May 4, Free Poet Picnic, 10am4pm. Celebrate art, poetry, and nature with live poetry and music performances. Sign up for a haiku workshop (768-4950), enjoy calligraphy demonstrations, and an open mic; bring a picnic or visit the food trucks. Free, Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors NW, 768-2000, cabq.gov/ parksandrecreation/open-space/ events.
May 4, 18, Chess in the Parks, 8:30am-noon. Join other chess players, coaches, and volunteers for a morning of chess. There will be tables, chairs, chess equipment, a clock, and variant sets to lend out. Volunteer chess coaches will be on hand to teach and discuss the game; all welcome. Free, ABQ Downtown Growers’ Market, Robinson Park, 810 Copper NW, learnerschess. org/chessintheparks.
May 5, 37th Annual Run for the Zoo, 7am-noon. Events for all ages include a Half Marathon, 10K Timed, 5K Timed, 5K Fitness, and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk that travels through the back of the Zoo. Participants receive a t-shirt and free admission to the Zoo, pre-registration is required. Prices vary, ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th SW, 764-6280, cabq.gov/ artsculture/biopark/events.
May 11, Bone Appetit Pet Adoption, 11am-4pm. Animal Adoptions with Animal Humane NM. Free, Zendo Coffee & Sidetrack Brewing Co. Free, 413 2nd SW, animalhumanenm.org/ calendar/bone-apitit-zendocoffee-sidetrack-brewing-co.
May 17, Sunflower Farm Tour, 10am. Tour a working market garden. Former homeschoolers will discuss gardening in NM, show farm animals, and provide free samples of farm products. Preschoolers can add bible study time; teen internships are available. Call to reserve a spot. 1 Oney Lane, Belen, 861-5400, hans.barsun@gmail.com.
May 31, NM Special Olympics 2024 State Summer Games. Special Olympics NM serves
over 3,100 athletes statewide, offering year-round training and competitions in 12 Olympic-style sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities (ID). Free, UNM Track & Field + Soccer Complex, 1800 Avenida Cesar Chavez SE, sonm.org/gamescompetitions/state-summergames.
June 6, Be the Bomb, 2-3pm. Create a galaxy geode bath bomb. For ages 9-12, limited to 15 participants. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 8888100, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 14, Origami Dragons, 3-4pm. Learn to fold two different kinds of origami dragons. For ages 9-12, registration required, limited to 20. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 20, CD Suncatchers, 2-3pm. Create a one-of-a-kind suncatcher to hang outside or in a window. For ages 9-12, limited to 15 participants. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 8888100, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 25, Sew Cool: Felt iPhone Cases, 2-3pm. Learn a simple hand-sewing technique and construct an iPhone case out of felt. All materials (except phones) will be provided. For ages 9-12, limited to 12. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 8578321, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 29, Backpack Charms, 3:304:30pm. Personalize a backpack with a DIY charm. Use colorful beads and other fun things to make these cute accessories. For ages 9-12, registration required, limited to 20. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 2916260, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 1, Meet a Scientist, 10am1pm. Meet local scientists, learn how STEAM is used in ABQ, and find something you want
to be when you grow up. There will be live raptor visitors from Hawks Aloft and Wildlife Rescue. Included with admission, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.
June 20, Third Thursday: Summer In The City, 5-8:30pm. Live music by an ABQ band dedicated to the sound and spirit of Native American and Reggae music. Art activities, gallery exhibits, food & drink. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq. gov/artsculture/albuquerquemuseum/events.
June 21-29, Festival Flamenco. The oldest and largest flamenco festival outside of Spain includes 20 performances, more than 60 free and paid workshops, two world premiere shows, and more than 90 performers. Children ages 6-12 can attend Festival Juvenil day camp; full details are on website. National Institute of Flamenco, 1771 Bellamah NW, 999-9102, ffabq.org.
June 8, Pride Parade, 10am. The parade starts in Nob Hill, travels up Central and ends at San Mateo. See full details at abqpride.com.
June 8, Pridefest, 2-8pm. Dance, music, expression, fun, and diversity. Free-$25, Balloon Fiesta Park, 5000 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy, abqpride.com.
June 15, Heights Summerfest, 5-10pm. A free concert with local products, food trucks, and libations. Entertainment by local talent, and a national headliner. Free, North Domingo Baca Park, 7521 Carmel NE, cabq.gov/ artsculture/things-to-do/annualevents/summerfest/heightssummerfest.
Area libraries offer activities like Lego Club, book groups, Read to the Dogs, movies, craft clubs, science groups, and in June, Summer Reading live music and movies. Check websites for
calendars and details: abqlibrary. org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.org.
Ann Lincoln’s Awesome Adventures Comedy, Magic, and Juggling Show, various times, various ABQ library locations. A “choose your own adventure” performance where pint-sized creativity reigns when the kids decide what happens next. Free, see website for schedule, abqlibrary.org/events.
Big Bubble Circus with Jim Jim Jackson, various times, various ABQ library locations. Jim Jackson stars in this family-friendly circus of silliness with soap bubbles of all sizes, some big enough that two children from the audience will find themselves inside one. Free, see website for schedule, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 1, Summer Reading Kick-Off Party, 10am-noon. Sign up for Summer Reading, get a reading log, and start reading. Enjoy crafts, VR and board games, a movie, a book walk, and snacks; all ages, no reservations required, as long as supplies last. Free, 8801 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary. org/events.
June 8, Read with a Ranger, 10:30am. Become a Reading Ranger, and join a Park Ranger from Petroglyph National Monument for a children's story and craft activity. Participants will earn a Reading Ranger badge; for ages 1-15. Free, Taylor Ranch Library, 5700 Bogart NW, 8990205, nps.gov/petr, abqlibrary. org/events.
June 13, Family Science, 11am2pm. Join Explora at the library for hands-on STEAM activities for the whole family. Free, Edgewood Library, 171B NM-344, Edgewood, 281-0138, edgewood-nm.gov/ departments/library/libraryservices.
June 13, Laura Manzanares, 5-6pm. Laura is an award-winning bilingual singer-songwriter of Northern NM heritage. She sings the Mexican boleros, rancheras, and corridos of her sheepranching childhood. Free, Rudolfo Anaya North Valley Library, 7704 2nd NW, 897-8823, abqlibrary. org/events.
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June 20, 27, Summer STEAM, 10am-noon. Join Explora for hands-on STEAM activities for the whole family. Free, Martha Liebert Public Library, 124 Calle Malinche, Bernalillo, explora.us/ events.
June 29, Rock Climbing Wall, 10am-1pm. Join Parks and Recreation for a learning experience to introduce the sport of climbing with a 25-foot massive rock. The climbing wall has easy, moderate and hard routes. Intended for 2nd grade and older, at least 43” and 40 pounds. Climbers under 18 must have an adult present; adults are welcome to climb. Free, International District Library, 7601 Central NE, 768-4970, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 29, “Stories in Stone” Program, 12:30pm. Join a Park Ranger from Petroglyph National Monument for a public presentation about the petroglyphs and the people who carved them in the volcanic rocks on the west side of ABQ. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 899-0205, nps.gov/petr, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 2, Dawn to Dusk, 2-4pm. Rosalia and Estevan Pacheco perform traditional NM music and dance. Free, Coronado Historic Site, 485 Kuaua Rd, Bernalillo, 771-0416, nmhistoricsites.org/ coronado.
June 7, 21, Zoo Music, 6-8:30pm. Enjoy performances by national touring acts with an evening of wildlife, food, music, fun, face painting, and bar service for adults over 21. A variety of animal exhibits will be open during this event. Free ages 2 and under/$8.50 ages 3-12 and seniors/$17, ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th SW, 764-6214, cabq.gov/ artsculture/biopark/events.
June 8, Mandolines of all Sizes: Music from Many Genres, 3pm. A family concert with occasional invitations for audience participation with The ABQ Mandolin Orchestra. The concert includes mandolin,
mandola, bouzouki, mandocello, cittern, and tenor guitar. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 8915013, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital.
June 12, Summer Reading Concert: Turquoise Blues, 6-7pm. Traditional and modern blues, classic rock, and a country sound. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 888-8100, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 13, Lara Manzanares, 5pm. An award-winning bilingual singer-songwriter of Northern NM heritage. Free, North Valley Library, 7704 2nd NW, 897-8823, ampconcerts.org/events.
June 20, Felix Gato Peralta, 5pm. Peralta is a Chicano singersongwriter skilled at vocals, guitar, accordion, and harmonica. Free, South Valley Library, 3904 Isleta SW, 877-5170, ampconcerts.org/ events.
June 20, 27, Garden Music, 6-8:30pm. Enjoy local bands; bring chairs, coolers, picnics and face painting. Bar service for adults over 21, food for sale. Free age 2 and under/$7 ages 3-12 & seniors/$14, ABQ Botanic Garden, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central NW, 768-2000, cabq. gov/artsculture/biopark/events.
June 27, The Watermelon Jug Band, 3-4pm. An authentic jug band with authentic jug band instruments and melodies of guitar and banjo. They play country, folk, bluegrass, jug band, rock ‘n’ roll, and original music. Free, International District Library, 601 Central NE, 768-4970, abqlibrary.org/events.
Petroglyph National Monument has several guided hikes in June, see website for a full schedule, nps.gov/petr/planyourvisit/ calendar.htm.
June 5, 12, 19, 26, Stories & Music in the Sky, 9:30-11am. An award-winning early childhood
education programming featuring stories, music, movement, and art; for ages up to 6. Stories and music are shared from around the wold with multiple languages by incorporating books, songs, fingerplays, and movement. Free, Anderson Abruzzo ABQ International Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, visitalbuquerque.org/event/ stories-%26-music-in-thesky/55549.
June 15, Ranger Read and Learn, 10am-noon. A Jemez Historic Site ranger will read “Coyote and the Sky” at 10:30am and talk about starts; all ages. Free; Martha Liebert Public Library, 124 Calle Malinche, Bernalillo, 867-5351, nmhistoricsites.org/coronado.
June 15, “Stars in the Sky,” 10amnoon. Listen to a story about what people see in the sky at 10:30am; create a constellation to take home. Free, Martha Liebert Public Library, 124 Calle Malinche, Bernalillo, bernalillolibrary.org.
June 15, Storytelling Under the Cottonwood, 10:30amnoon. Hear wisdom tales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org/index. php/calendar.
June 3, 27, International Snack Tasting for Teens, 2-3pm. Explore cultures through sweet and savory snacks and vote on favorites; for ages 13-17, limited to 15. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 8888100, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 6, Learn How to Make Strawberry Boba Tea, 4-5pm. After a demonstration, take & make kits will be provided. For ages 13-17, registration required, limited to 20. Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 8360684, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 20, Fantasy Miniature Painting, 4-5pm. Learn painting techniques and then paint a fantasy gaming miniature. For ages 13-17, registration
is required, limited to 20 participants. Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 836-0684, abqlibrary.org/events.
June 6, Happy Arte Hour, 6pm. Adults can enjoy artistic fun in a relaxed social setting with snacks, refreshments, and beer & wine for sale. Free/$5 donations encouraged, NHCC, 1701 4th SW, 246-2261, nhccnm.org/events.
June 8-12, Mommy’s Market Online Shopping. Thousands of gently used items can be purchased from home and picked up by appointment
June 21-22. Free/presale tickets available, Mommy’s Market, 7200 Montgomery Blvd NE Suites C and D, 884-6333, facebook. com/events/947582136769105.
June 1, 15, Chess in the Parks, 8:30am-noon. Join other chess players, coaches, and volunteers for a morning of chess. There will be tables, chairs, chess equipment, clocks, and variant sets to lend out. Volunteer chess coaches will be on hand to teach and discuss the game; all welcome. Free, ABQ Downtown Growers’ Market, Robinson Park, 810 Copper NW, learnerschess. org/chessintheparks.
June 8, Author Presentation: David Ryan, 10am. David Ryan, co-author of "60 Hikes within 60 Miles" will speak about hiking near ABQ. Ryan will provide tips about where to hike and what to expect when you get there. Free, Petroglyph National Monument, 6510 Western Trail NW, 899-0205, nps.gov/petr.
June 15, Feline Film Festival 2024, 4pm. View a collection of cat-inspired silent action cinemas from around the world, with food trucks, vendors, kitten yoga class, and pet adoptions. Meet adoptable pets from around the state. Packages from $22-$87, National Hispanic Cultural Center, Wells Fargo Auditorium, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, my.nmculture. org/31510/31511.
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Junior Docents. Work side-byside with museum educators, staff, and volunteers who will share scientific and historical knowledge. Learn to communicate findings to visitors through demos, activities, and discussions. For teens entering 8th-12th grade in the 2024-2025 school year, and are ages 13-17 at the start of the school year. Free, National Museum of Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org/visit/events.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Dance Program, Saturdays & Sundays, 2pm, Fris; 11am & 2pm, Sats &Suns. Pueblo communities celebrate seasonal cycles through prayer, song, and dance that connect ancestors, community, and traditions while honoring gifts from the Creator. Included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org/cultural-danceprogram.
Guided Bird Walks, Saturdays & Sundays, 8:30-10am. Join a volunteer naturalist and fellow birders for a guided walk through
the Nature Center, including some areas normally off-limits to visitors; limited to 12. Registration is required, meet at the blind at the east end of the parking lot. $3 parking/day use fee or FRGNC or State Park pass on the dash, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, 344-0274, rgnc.org/index.php/calendar.
STEM Day Fun Day, 4th Thursdays, 3:30pm. Learn about science, technology, engineering, and math in new and creative ways. Do an experiment or a craft. The HUB @ Enchanted Hills, 7845 Enchanted Hills, Rio Rancho, 8915008, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital.
Teen Creative Writing Club, 1st Wednesdays & 3rd Thursdays, 3:30-4:30pm. Share work, find a group to push you past writer’s block, and find tips and tricks to hone skills. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries. events.mylibrary.digital.
Young Adult Book Club, 4th Wednesday, 3:30pm. Each month read a different book chosen by club members. Talk and eat snacks, enjoy crafts and other activities related to the book that was read. Free, Loma Colorado Main Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-
5013, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital.
Though many museums and cultural centers offer free admission days, availability may change and restrictions may apply during high-traffic dates like Balloon Fiesta, please call before you visit to verify the dates of your visit are not restricted.
ABQ Museum, Tuesday-Sunday, ages 3 and under; members with ID; first Wednesdays; Sundays from 9am-1pm, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq. gov/artsculture/albuquerquemuseum/plan-your-visit/ admission-ticketing.
Balloon Museum, Sundays, 9am-1pm and first Fridays, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, 7686020, cabq.gov/artsculture/ balloonmuseum/plan-your-visit/ admission-online-ticketings.
Coronado Historic Site, Wednesday-Monday, 10am4pm. Free 16 and under; first Sundays NM residents; all foster families; DCA Culture Pass holders; MNMF members, 485 Kuaua Rd, Bernalillo, 867-5351, nmhistoricsites.org/coronado.
Explora, Monday-Sunday, under age 1; members; 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/visitorinformation.
Jemez Historic Site, WednesdaySunday, 10am-4pm, Free 16 and under; first Sundays NM residents; all foster families; DCA Culture Pass holders, MNMF members; 18160 NM4, Jemez Springs, 829-3530, nmhistoricsites.org/jemez.
National Hispanic Cultural Center Visual Arts Museum, Tuesday-Sunday, free for ages 16 and under; members; all NM foster families; first Sundays NM residents; NM residents 60+ with ID, 1701 4th SW, 7244771, nhccnm.org/visit/hoursadmission.
National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, MondaySunday, under age 5, 601 Eubank SE, 569-0865, nuclearmuseum. org/visit.
NM Museum of Natural History and Science, Wednesday-Monday, free the day of your choosing for up to 6 people with the use of the State Library DCA Family Pass, all NM foster families, ages 2 and under, 1801 Mountain NW, 8412800, nmnaturalhistory.org.
State Parks Free Entrance Days are listed at nps.gov/ planyourvisit/fee-free-parks-state. htm.
Tingley Beach Recreational Area is free every day, anglers 12 and older need a valid NM fishing license; ponds are restocked approximately every 3-4 weeks, 1800 Tingley SW, cabq.gov/ artsculture/biopark/tingley.
May 4, Bosque Redondo Memorial Fiber Fair, 10am-4pm. Live demonstrations and handson wool working activities using sheared wool. Activity stations, sheep viewing, food trucks, and demonstrations of shearing, skirting, washing, carding, spinning, dying, weaving, knitting, felting, and crocheting. Free 6 and under/$7 adult, Bosque Redondo Memorial, 3647 Billy the Kid Dr., Fort Sumner, 575-355-2573, nmhistoricsites.org/bosqueredondo.
May 19, Sunday Funday at Gisewa, 11am-2pm. Learn how to leather work from Jason Lovato, an artisan from Santo Domingo Pueblo. Free, Jemez Historic Site, 18160 NM-4, Jemez Springs, 8293530, nmhistoricsites.org/jemez.
June 16, Sunday Funday at Gisewa, 11am-2pm. Explore your creative side with canvas painting or learn how to beadwork with Darrel Esquibel, an artist from San Felipe Pueblo. Free, Free, Jemez Historic Site, 18160 NM4, Jemez Springs, 829-3530, nmhistoricsites.org/jemez.
Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but dates, times, places & prices of events can change, so be sure to call ahead. Events listed are child- and teen-appropriate to the best of our knowledge. As families have different ideas of “age-appropriate,” we encourage you to confirm that any activity you attend is appropriate for your child. To have your events listed for free in our next calendar, fill out the calendar form at newmexico-kids.com or send the date, time, place, cost, description of the activity, sponsoring organization, and contact phone number to kids@newmexico-kids.com. The deadline is June 10 for listings in the July/August calendar. Listings are not guaranteed due to space limits. Phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.
May 5, Family Art Making: Portrait Making, 10am-noon. Families can join in a fun art-making session and explore the galleries to find inspiration; light snacks available. Free to NM residents, NM Museum of Art, 107 W. Palace, 4765063, nmartmuseum.org/events.
May 5, Fine Art Friday: Make Your Own Button, 2-4pm. Decorate a backpack, jacket, or lunchbox with a button you create; materials are provided. Included with admission, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org/events.
May 9, 16, 23, Create with O’Keeffe, 3:30-4:30pm. An open art workshop for kids with friends from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
May 12, Family Mornings at Folk Art: Paper Art with Papier Mâché, 11am-noon. Storytime, art activity, and exploration of the galleries. Included with admission, Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1200, moifa.org/events.
May 14, Greek “Pottery” Palooza: 2024 Santa Fe Reads, 5pm. Learn about Classical Greek art and make a Greek amphora out of papier mâché; for families with kids. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 9554862, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events.
May 4, 25, Science Saturday with “Mr. Science,” 2-4pm. Fun educational experiments and projects with guest scientists & STEAM instructors. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 9898359, santafechildrensmuseum. org/events.
May 12, Family Day: Celebrate Art to G.O.!, 10:30am-2:30pm. Celebrate one year of the Art to G.O. truck, a mobile studio designed to bring art-making experiences to NM communities. Enjoy hands-on art-making, interactive storytelling, and creative activities. Participating families receive free entry to the museum (out-of-state sign-up for the activity, NM residents show ID). Free, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org/events.
May 3, First Friday: Art Works End of Year Student Exhibition, 5-7pm. Celebrate educators and promising young artists from across SF. Free, NM Museum of Art, Plaza Building, 107 W. Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/events.
May 13, Origami In The Garden Grand Opening, 9am-1pm. “FLORIGAMI” is an exhibit featuring up to 18 large installations of nearly 70 museum-caliber sculptures inspired by origami. The exhibit is open until Nov. 1. Free, Box Studio & Sculpture Garden, 3453 State Highway 14, 471-4688, origamiinthegarden.com/visit.
May 4, Folk Art Flea, 10am-2pm. This fundraiser for Friends of Folk Art features hundreds of curated folk art pieces from collectors and artists around the world. Free, SF County Fairgrounds, 3229 Rodeo Rd., moifa.org/events.
May 4, Mother’s Day Arts & Crafts Extravaganza, 10am-2pm. More than 50 local makers, crafters, and artists will be selling gifts at all price points. Free, Growing Up NM Kaune Campus, 1409 Monterey, 819-7266, santafe.org/event/ mothers-day-arts-%26-craftsextravaganza/17824.
May 25, Children’s Theatre Festival, 1-3:30pm. Indoor children's theatre performances from 1-2pm; face painting, craft activities, snacks, music, and circus acts from 2-3:30pm.
Free (donations accepted), The Unitarian Universalist Church, corner of Gallistao & Barcelona, 107 W. Barcelona, 428-8508, theatresantafe.org/calendar-ofevents.
May 25-26, 20th Annual Native Treasures Art Market, 10am-4pm. Hundreds of Native artists participate in this market with special entertainment and children’s activities. Free under 18/$5 adult, SF Community Convention Center, 201 W. Marcy, 982-2282, museumfoundation.org/ native-treasures.
Area Libraries offer activities like Bilingual Books and Babies, Read to a Pup!, Game Time, chess clubs, after-school clubs, storytimes, movies, and knitting clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: santafe.librarycalendar. com/events, vglibrary.org.
May 3, Children’s Programs with a NASA Solar System Ambassador, 1-2pm; 4:305:30pm. This is part of “Santa Fe Reads.” Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
May 3, 4, Planetarium at the Library, Santa Fe Reads. SF Children’s Museum will bring its Planetarium. find a librarian to learn about it and read a book in space. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
May 11, Capturing the Constellations: 2024 Santa Fe Reads, 3pm. Learn about the Greek myths behind familiar constellations and make a constellation projector or light jar; for families with kids. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe.librarycalendar.com/events.
May 5, SF Youth Symphony Association 30th Season Spectacular, 6pm. A showcase of talented young musicians from
the SF area and beyond who have been honing their skills; featuring the Youth Symphony, Youth Philharmonic, Mariachi Estrella, Quemazón Jazz Combo, and Sierra String Quartet. $15/$25/$35, Lensic PAC, 211 W. San Francisco, 9848759, lensic.org/events.
May 19, SF Community Orchestra Free Concert, 1:30pm. This concert features Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s orchestral suite “Capriccio Espagnol,” Op. 34, Modest Mussorgsky’s piano suite “Pictures at an Exhibition,” and Florence Price’s “Adoration” arranged for violin and strings. Free, Scottish Rite Temple, 463 Paseo De Peralta, sfco. org.
May 18, Spring Bird Walk, 7:30-9am. A morning walk to observe visitors in the garden; watch for resident and migratory birds resting and nesting. $8/$10 non-members, Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 4719103, santafebotanicalgarden.org/ calendar.
May 2, 9, 16, Pajama Story Time/ Hora Del Cuento En Pijama, 6:30-7:30pm. A cozy evening storytime that includes a snack and a craft, for parents and preschool children. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
May 4, 18, Kids Storytime, 10:30am. Join for magical adventures through the pages of tales; up to age 4. Free, Collected Works Bookstore & Coffeehouse, 202 Galisteo, 988-4226, collectedworksbookstore.com/ events.
May 6, 20, Storytime, 10:30am. Children ages 3-5 and their caregivers can learn about a basic element of art through story, song, and craft. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W. Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/events.
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May 1, 8, 16, 22, Teen Lounge, 2-4pm. Teens are invited to decompress after school with tea and snacks, art supplies, board games, a reading nook/nap zone, and wifi. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
May 5, SF Youth Poet Laureate Program: “Through Lines,” 4pm. “Through Lines” is the SFYPL Program’s inaugural poetry anthology, and some of the contributors will be reading from it, including two current co-Youth Poet Laureates. Free, Collected Works Bookstore & Coffeehouse, 202 Galisteo, 9884226, collectedworksbookstore. com/events.
May 11, Youth Story Slam, 11am12:30pm. Storytellers ages 7-17 can register for a chance to share a story slam: a very short and true story about the storyteller, around 5 minutes long. Ten participants will be chosen for a chance to tell their story; see website for guidelines and information about entries. Free for participants and one adult/included with admission, Botanical Garden Ojos y Manos Amphitheatre, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden. org/event.
May 18, Spring to Sevilleta, 9am2pm. A day at Sevilleta: hands-on nature activities, Bolson tortoise, nature walks, and tours of the refuge; all ages. Free, Sevilleta Wildlife Refuge, Exit 169, Interstate 25, 575-835-2948, amigosdelasevilleta.org/calendar.
June 2, Family Art Making, 10amnoon. Create pinch pots out of airdry clay at the museum. Explore the works by Rick Dillingham at the Plaza building for inspiration; light snacks available. Free for NM residents, NM Museum of Art, 107 W. Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/events.
June 2, Family Mornings at Folk Art: Summer Time!, 11amnoon. Storytime, art activity, and exploration of the galleries. Included with admission, Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 4761200, moifa.org/events.
June 7, Fine Art Friday: Flower Bookmarks, 2-4pm. Dive into summer reading by creating a flower bookmark. Included with admission, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org/events.
June 9, Family Day: Flower Power, 10:30am-2pm. Celebrate the natural beauty of all the flowers around NM. Participating families receive free entry to the museum; (out-of-state sign-up for the activity, NM residents show ID). Free, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org/events.
June 13, 20, 27, Create with O’Keeffe, 3:30-4:30pm. An open art workshop for kids with friends from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
June 1, 15, 22, Science Saturday with “Mr. Science,” 2-4pm. Fun and educational experiments and projects with guest scientists & STEAM instructors. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 9898359, santafechildrensmuseum. org/events.
June 7, First Friday Scavenger Hunt. Explore the galleries with a scavenger hunt that will test the powers of observation. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 4765072, nmartmuseum.org/events.
June 8, Off-Center Community Day, 10am-5pm. Free admission, special activities, and tours to celebrate the new exhibition “Off Center: NM Art, 1970-2000,” on display through May 2025. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W. Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/ events.
June 1, 2, Santa Fe Spring Festival, 10am-4pm. Celebrate the cultural heritage of NM with sheep shearing, activities, and demonstrations. Children can enjoy crafts, adults can visit vendors and purchase NM hard cider; see website for full details. Free-$15, El Rancho de las Golondrinas, 334 Los Pinos Road, 471-2261, golondrinas. org/events/spring-fest.
June 19-22, Rodeo de Santa Fe. This event brings top cowboys & cowgirls, stock contractor, specialty acts, barrel men, and youth barrel racers; Wednesday night is family night. $10-$30, Rodeo De Santa Fe, 3237 Rodeo Rd., rodeodesantafe. org.
Area Libraries offer activities like Bilingual Books and Babies, Read to a Pup!, Game Time, chess clubs, after-school Clubs, storytimes, movies, and knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: santafe.librarycalendar. com/events, vglibrary.org.
Science Heros: Adventure of the Lost Treasure, multiple dates, times, and library locations. Join a treasure-hunting adventure deep within the jungle where the audience helps the performer act out the tale and the story is used to explore science concepts like air pressure, energy transfer, and physical vs. chemical changes. Volunteers help the audience interact with the experiments. Free, santafe.librarycalendar.com/events.
June 1, Rock Time, 11am-2pm. Drop by to see what the geologists and archeologists have on display, and bring in your rocks and questions. Free, Vista Grande Library, 14 Avenida Torreon, 4667323, vglibrary.org.
June 5, 12, 26, Kids Yoga and Movement, 3pm. Join for a fun yoga and movement class for children. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
June 7, Bubble Palooza!, 11am-2pm. Kick off the summer reading program: cool off with popsicles and sign up for a reading adventure. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
June 15, STEAM TREK: The Search for Life in Space, 3:30pm. An IMAX film and activities for children and their families. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe.librarycalendar.com/events.
June 22, Rocky Mountain Puppets: Expedition Underground, 10:30am (Main Library) & 1:30pm (Southside Library). After months of preparation, Meghan and Aidan are embarking on their quest to uncover rare fossils in a mysterious cave. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781; Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe.librarycalendar.com/events.
June 8, 15, 18, 22, 29, Santa Fe Summer Series, 6pm. Enjoy live music that includes blues, country, folk, indigenous, jazz, Latin, rock, and world music; all ages. Free, Santa Fe Plaza, 63 Lincoln, santafe. com/santa-fe-summer-scene.
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June 9, 16, 23, 30, Santa Fe Summer Series, 7pm. Enjoy live music that includes blues, country, folk, indigenous, jazz, Latin, rock, and world music; all ages. Free, Railyard Plaza, 1612 Alcaldesa, santafe.com/santa-fe-summerscene.
June 21, Make Music Santa Fe Day, 1-8pm. An event fully driven by public participation. Everyone can host music, and anyone can perform. For more information about performing, becoming a venue, and attending, see website. Free, Railyard Plaza, 1612 Alcaldesa, makemusicday.org/santafe.
June 12, 16, 26, 30, “Can You Dig It?” - Hands-On Archaeology for Families, 11am-3pm. Children can learn about archaeology and NM by digging in a simulated archaeology pit. Free kids 12 and under and members/Included with admission, El Rancho de Las Golodrinas, 334 Pinos Rd, 471-2261.
June 25, NM Wildlife Center Presents, 2-3pm. Meet one or more native animal ambassadors and learn why they are permanent residents at the Center. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe.librarycalendar.com/events.
June 3, 17, Storytime, 10:30am. Children ages 3-5 and their caregivers can learn about a basic element of art through story, song, and craft. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W. Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/events.
June 25, Food Depot Mobile Food Pantry, 10-11:30am. Free food distribution, no ID required. Free, Southside Library Parking Lot, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
ALSO OF INTEREST
June 1, Pride Month Kickoff, 8-10am. Free burritos, coffee, love, and celebration of diversity and inclusion; family-friendly, open to all. Free, Santa Fe Plaza, 63 Lincoln, hrasantafe.org/pride-2024.
June 24, SF Pride Movie Night and Karaoke: “Grease,” 6-9:25pm.
Karaoke starts at 6pm, the movie starts at 7pm. Chairs and blankets and picnics allowed; no umbrellas or alcohol. Free/donations, Railyard Performance Lawn, 740 Cerrillos, lensic360.org/event/414937/ grease-santa-fe-pride-movie-nightw-karaoke.
June 29, Out West Community Day/PRIDE, 11am-4pm. Special activities and tours to celebrate “Out West: Gay and Lesbian Artists in the Southwest 1900-1969,” and Santa Fe PRIDE. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/events.
CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS
Animal Meet & Greet, Thursdays, 12:30-1pm. Learn fun facts about the museum pets and see them eat their lunch. Say “hi” to Cornelius (Corn snake), Bisquick (Tortoise), Fafnir (Lizard), and Loki (Mexican Black Kingsnake). Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 9898359, santafechildrensmuseum. org/events.
Fine Art Friday, Fridays, 2-4pm. An exploration into the arts with special guests and hands-on activities. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org/ events.
Seeds & Sprouts, Thursdays, 10:30-11:30am. Kids explore nature from fun in the backyard, to in-house programming. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 9898359, santafechildrensmuseum. org/events.
Wee Wednesdays, Wednesdays, 10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story time and play. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org/ events.
LIBRARY EVENTS
Caregiver and Tot Creative Movement, 1st & 3rd Saturdays, 10am. A gentle introductory class for children and their caregiver with
discovery of dance through play, that sparks a lifelong appreciation for movement arts. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafe.librarycalendar.com/events.
Youth Chess Club, Wednesdays, 5:45pm. A chance for school-age youth to continue to improve critical thinking skills through chess. While playing with other youth, new techniques, strategies, and tricks are introduced. For youth of all ages who know the basic elements of chess and can play without aid. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6780, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.
Kids’ Sing-Along with Queen Bee, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15am. Kids ages up to 6 will be led through a variety of music games and singalongs. Free/donations welcomed, Railyard Park, 805 Early Street, 204 B, 316-3596, railyardpark.org/ events.
Saturday Birding Meetup, Saturdays, 8:30-10am. A guided walk through the gardens and property; all welcome. Free, Randall Davey Audubon Center, 1800 Upper Canyon, southwest.audubon.org/ event-type/bird-walks.
Bilingual Books and Babies, 10am. The power of music and song is used as an introduction to language in this program for babies and toddlers. Free: Wednesdays, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781; Fridays: La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862; Saturdays: Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 9552820, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events/upcoming.
Children’s Storytime and Craft, 10:30-11:30am. Free, Tuesdays: Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820; Wednesdays: La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862; Thursdays, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
Art Explored! Story Time, Tuesdays. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/events.
Though many museums and cultural centers offer free admission days, restrictions may apply during high-traffic dates like Balloon Fiesta, please call before you visit to verify the dates of your visit are free admission days. To see a full list of hours and prices, visit newmexicoculture.org/visit/hoursand-admission-prices.
IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, Fridays, 83 Avan Nu Po, 983-8900, iaia.edu/freefridays-at-the-iaia-museum-ofcontemporary-native-arts.
Museum of Indian Art & Culture, Tuesday-Sunday, ages 16 and under; Museum of NM Foundation Members; first Sundays NM residents; all NM foster families with ID; NM seniors with ID Wednesdays, 710-708 Camino Lejo, 476-1269, indianartsandculture. org/hours.
Museum of International Folk Art: Tuesday-Sunday, ages 16 and under; all NM foster families, first Sundays with NM ID, Wednesdays for NM seniors 60+ with ID, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1204, moifa.org/visit/hoursadmission.html.
NM History Museum: TuesdaySunday, all NM foster families, first Fridays from 5-7pm (May-Oct.), NM residents with ID: 5-7pm, every Friday (May-Oct.), first Sundays, members, 113 Lincoln, 476-5200, nmhistorymuseum.org/visit/hoursand-admission.html.
NM Museum of Art: TuesdaySunday, ages 16 and under; NM foster families; members; school groups; first Fridays 5-7pm; NM residents with ID: ages 60+, Wednesdays, first Sundays, Fridays 5-7pm, 107 W. Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/visit.
Santa Fe Botanical Garden: Monday-Sunday, ages 3 and under, members, 715 Camino Lejo, 4719103, santafebotanicalgarden.org/ visit.
Santa Fe Children’s Museum, Wednesday-Sunday, under age 1, members, Thursdays 4-6pm, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8356, santafechildrensmuseum.org/ explore/plan-your-visit.
Every parent knows bullying behaviors are rampant in our schools and communities. We teach our kids ways to stay safe and to avoid becoming a victim. What most parents don’t expect is that their own child may be bullying others. When confronted with this troubling information, parents may at first respond by thinking, “It’s just normal playground behavior” or “Boys will be boys.” It hurts to realize that one’s child is making life difficult for others.
Bullying is defined as mean-spirited, harmful behavior. It is the use of power over someone perceived as less powerful or lower in status. It is intentional, not accidental. It can be physical or verbal and has far-reaching consequences for both the victim and the bully.
It may be surprising to learn that many bullies are the “popular” kids — the children who are good-looking, good at sports and who set the tone for group behaviors. They have the power and don’t want to risk losing it.
The question is why? Why do some kids choose to hurt others by physically attacking them or by harassing them in other ways? Psychologists say kids bully because:
• They have learned by copying aggressive behaviors early in life, and they lack problem-solving skills.
• They have been exposed to violent conduct glamorized in music, games, television and movies.
• They have witnessed conflict and punishment at home, learning that such behavior is acceptable.
• It gives them a sense of power and status with friends.
• They have poor self-control.
• They are being bullied or abused themselves.
Once parents receive and accept the truth about their child’s behavior, the question becomes “What do we do?” Studies have shown that punishment for bullying behaviors is seldom successful. Once the detention or suspension is completed, the same behaviors re-occur. And apologizing to the victims also is not a helpful intervention.
Bullying is not an easy problem to fix. It grows out of layers of problematic understandings, relationships and learned responses. It also may be related to some medical conditions.
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So, when parents first become aware of the problem, they may need some help. Here are some ways to address the problems:
• Sit down with your child and discuss the problem. Share the information given to you and listen to your child’s responses. Be sure to talk in specifics, such as what was said and done.
• Let your child know your family does not endorse any form of bullying, whether it is physical, social or done online. Role-playing ways to interact peacefully may be helpful for younger children.
• Discuss your child’s friendships and whether they contribute to bullying behaviors.
• Make an effort to engage in positive activities in the community where your child can find success. Sports, drama, music or other activities may provide opportunities for healthy interactions with others. Limit entertainment that glorifies violent behaviors.
• Consider getting a medical examination to rule out any underlying conditions such as ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) or autism.
• Find out if your child’s behavior stems from being hurt by others.
• Teach what it means to feel empathy for others. Talk about how their bullying behaviors have affected the victims.
• Consider getting help from a skilled professional such as a psychologist or counselor.
Learning your child is a bully can be very traumatic but accepting that reality is the first step to making positive changes for your entire family. Resolving to get to the root of the problems, finding appropriate support, and making a plan to improve interactions with others will go a long way toward curtailing your child’s bullying behaviors.
Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and author of “Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun.” Find Jan at janpierce.net.
Resources:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: stopbullying.gov
National Bullying Prevention Center: pacer.org/bullying/about
STOMP Out Bullying: stompoutbullying.org
accepting applications for 2024-2025
Black Range Horsemanship Camp, PO Box 152, Winston, NM 87943. Phone: 575-743-1602 or 575-740-1778; Website: www.zianet. com/4jranch; Contact: Greg Evans, Camp Director; Email: 4jranch@ zianet.com. A residential camp for boys & girls ages 8-18. 2024 Session: July 7–13 ($600); On the beautiful Chihenne Ranch, our program includes: horseback riding for all levels, hiking, arts & crafts, Indian lore, sports & games, rifle shooting, archery, cave and mine exploring, field trips, drama, skits, and dancing. Hike at the Gila National Forest. Visit a turn of the century mine. Explore Ghost Towns. Serving boys & girls since 1991.
Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails Summer Overnight & Day Camp, 4000 Jefferson Plaza NE, Alb., NM 87109. Phone: 505-343-1040; Email: customercare@nmgirlscouts.org; Website: www.nmgirlscouts. org; Camp Contact: Chelsea Wain Camp Director Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails is ACA accredited and has many camp options for you this summer! Girl Scout camp is about trying new things, meeting new friends, and having fun. Whether you’re interested in horses, archery, canoeing, hiking, impromptu theater, the arts, sports, engineering, baking, or looking to try something new, you can have a great summer at Girl Scout camp! Girls do not need to be Girl Scouts to attend our camps. All girls are welcome here. We offer Troop & Family Camps, Day Camp, and Overnight Camps. We have three locations; Albuquerque, Jemez Mountains, and Angel Fire. Our camps are open to girls K-12, as well as family and alum on weekends. We offer numerous camp sessions between June 3rd and July 26th. Camp pricing starts at Troop/ Family $75/person, Day Camp $200/camper, Overnight $600/camper. Check out our website for more info, dates, program details, and price specifics! www.nmgirlscouts.org When you register your camper, use promo code: TRADE5 to earn $5 to use at our trading post!
Hummingbird Music Camp, 104 Hummingbird Rd., Jemez Springs, NM 87025. Phone: 575-829-3060. Email: hmcjemez@gmail.com. Ages: 8-14. Hummingbird Music Camp, nestled by the river in the Jemez Mountains, is a family owned business celebrating 66 years of nurturing a love for fine arts in the youth of NM. This safe and lovingly structured social environment provides a home away from home in the fresh mountain air where children are occupied with friends, activities, and fine arts enrichment (not electronics). At Hummingbird, we offer three camps: Music, Art, and Chess. Music: Music camp is wonderful for all campers, from those who do not have any music experience, to those who are advanced. Campers receive daily private lessons from professional teachers, participate in large group ensembles, have daily designated practice time, and conclude the week with multiple concert experiences. Hummingbird offers band, orchestra, guitar, piano, and voice. Art: Art campers expand their creativity by undertaking an assortment of projects with diverse media. Campers work with professional art teachers who inspire ingenuity and creativity. Campers get to enjoy art classes in a variety of inspiring environments. All skill levels are welcome! Chess: Chess campers, from beginning to advanced, receive expert instruction and strategies that help them improve their game. Campers benefit from one-on-one chess lessons and play matches in a fun filled environment. With a tournament at the end of the week, chess campers get to see how much their skills have improved! Hummingbird gives children the opportunity to be children. We balance the focus of music, art, or chess with fun filled activities including, campfires with silly songs, storytelling, water walking, fishing, skits, sleeping under the stars, a moonlight hike to the waterfall, a dance and more! Visit hummingbirdmusiccamp.com.
Art School Santa Fe’s Summer Mini Art Camps, 3600 Cerrillos Rd., Unit 714D (in the Lofts), Santa Fe, NM 87507. Phone: 505-364-3256; Email: ronny@artschoolsantafe.com; Website: Artschoolsantafe.com; Camp Contact: Ronny, Owner. Join us this Summer where you’ll gain new art skills and explore your imagination! Offering camps for ages 7 and up from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. $250 a week: June 3rd - July 12th. Ages 10 and up July 15th - Aug 2nd 11 am - 4pm $280. Register by May 1st for an early bird discount! June 3rd - 7th Fantasy and Anthropomorphic creatures, June 10th - 14th Acrylic painting, June 17th - 21st Yokai and Kaiju, July 8th - 12th manga and anime characters. Teens & Tweens;
July 15th - 19th fantasy creature design, July 22nd - 26th Portraits and Figures, July 29th - Aug 2nd oil painting.
Darruma Jiujitsu & Yoga - Darruma Summer Camp, 1400 Agua Fria, Suite A, Santa Fe, NM 87505. Phone: 505-587-2272; Email: admin@darruma.com; Website: darruma.com; Camp Contact: Coach Sammy. Our summer camp is intended to provide kids with a place to recognize and express their own experience, learn discipline, and experience stillness and peace within themselves. Camp runs Monday through Friday, 9am to 3pm and is open to ages 5-12. Our curriculum includes jiujitsu, yoga, art, and engagement with nature. We learn about the forms and philosophy of jiujitsu through drilling, specific training, and sparring. Studying yoga, kids experience the benefits of body awareness through stretching, strength exercises, and stillness. Process-oriented art projects give kids a chance to play freely with materials and deepen their creative capacity. Our location at Darruma gives us easy walking access to many local parks and the Santa Fe River. Each week will include walking to these locations to play and explore and learn how accessible rich outdoor experiences can be. Please join us for this unique camp! We look forward to deepening our relationship with this community as we connect and grow together.
Glorieta Camps - Glorieta Day Camp, 11 State Road 50, Glorieta, NM 87535. Phone: 505.757.6161; Email: info@glorieta.org; Website: www.Glorieta.org; Camp Contact: Mackenzie Bell, Day Camp Manager or Paul Morrison, Retreats Manager. Glorieta Day Camp is a five-day camp experience unlike any other! Kids, ages 6-13, are invited to our fun-filled, action-packed, Christ-centered program that’s loaded with activities and learning experiences. Fill your kids’ summers with adventure and treasured memories! Cost: $350. Optional extras come with additional costs. These include transportation or our retail bundle "Adventure Packs." For more information and dates, please visit www. Glorieta.org/daycamp. Or plan to bring the whole family for our special Family Fun Day, July 20. Learn more and register at www.glorieta.org/ retreats/fun-day/.
New Mexico Young Actors Summer Theater Workshops, Menaul School, 301 Menaul Blvd. NE, Alb., NM 87107. Phone: 505821-8055; Email: info@nmyoungactors.org; Website: nmyoungactors. org; Camp Contact: Rachel Ribeiro, Executive Director. Classes June 3-June 27, Mon-Thurs. Drama I (ages 9-19, 9-11 am): Learn the basics of stage acting with emphasis on movement, improv and character development in our Summer Drama I class! Musical Theater Intensive (ages 9-19, 12-2:15 pm): Sharpen your musical theater savvy with focused instruction from professionals. Shakespeare Fest (ages 9-19, 2:30-5 pm): Dive into Shakespeare with no fear in our 2nd Annual NMYA Summer Shakespeare Fest with scenes from Romeo and Juliet! For more info and registration, go to www.nmyoungactors.org.
Learners Summer Chess Camps, 532 Adams NE, Alb., NM 87108. Phone: 505- 369-6026; Email: learnerschess@gmail.com; Website: learnerschess.org; Camp Contact: Victor Lopez, Camp Director. Every summer, kids from across NM come to Learners Summer Chess Camps to rekindle friendships, make new friends, learn together, study together, challenge each other, compete, mentor each other, be mentored by Learners' Chess Coaches, experience the latest advancements in the Learners Chess curriculum and process, play Capture the Flag and Frisbee and other fun games, earn prizes including more multi-colored chess pieces for their own colored chess set, get a Learners T-shirt, and improve their thinking as chess players, thinkers, social actors and leaders. Open to ages 6 and up, all chess skill and experience levels welcome. Locations: Weeklong Camps (mornings, 8:30am-noon, afternoons 1pm-4:30pm, or full days 8:30am4:30pm), Before & after care available. Sibling discounts. Need-Based Scholarships. Santa Fe (Rio Grande School) Check website for dates and details.
NDI New Mexico Summer Half-day and full-day programs for ages three to adult! Register Online now at ndi-nm.org for classes at The Dance Barns in Santa Fe or The Hiland Theater in Albuquerque. Offering classes from Creative Movement to Hip-Hop plus Summer Intensive for incoming 4th-9th graders June 10-28. Classes are offered on a sliding scale based on income to be affordable to all families! View the full schedule online!
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Rio Grande School - RGS Summer Camp, 715 Camino Cabra, Santa Fe, NM 87505-5964. Phone: 505-983-1621; Email: summer@ riograndeschool.org; Website: riograndeschool.org/summer/; Camp Contact: Rachel Gantt - Associate Head of School Camp is offered to children aged three through sixth graders. Campers choose from a list of excellent enrichment classes that are taught by our very own RGS educators. Morning outdoor play goes from 9am-10:30am. Enrichment classes run from 10:30am-2pm and afternoon exploration and activities run from 2pm-4pm.
Santa Fe Botanical Garden - Garden Explorer Camp, 715 Camino Lejo, Santa Fe, NM 87508. Phone: 505-471-9103; Email: christie@ santafebotanicalgarden.org; Website: www.santafebotanicalgarden.org; Camp Contact: Christie Collins Director of Education and Interpretation. During this 3-day outdoor day camp your child will hike the arroyos, explore the pinon-juniper woodland, learn animal tracking, plant ID along with plenty of fun games and activities. Ages 6-15, with three different camp themes offered twice, once in June and once in July. Summer Camps at the Santa Fe Climbing Center, 3008 Cielo Court, Santa Fe, NM 87507. Phone: 505-986-8944; Email: info@ climbsantafe.com; Website: https://climbsantafe.com/classesprograms/youth-programs/after-school-summer-camps/. Summer Camps at the Santa Fe Climbing Center creates a stimulating environment in which climbers at all levels will push their physical and mental limits while having fun and exploring the world of indoor rock climbing! The challenges and climbing games led by our experienced instructors promote teamwork, confidence, flexibility, balance, problem solving and more. Our weekly Summer Camp sessions are in the morning (8:30-11:30am) or afternoon (12:30-3:30pm) with before and aftercare available and start May 28th. The camps are divided in the following age groups, 5-8 year old, 9-13 year old and 12-15 year old climbers and cost $249.00 per session.
Santa Fe Girls' School Girls Explore!, 310 W. Zia Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87505. Phone: 505-820-3188; Email: rwilliams@santafegirlsschool.org; Website: santafegirlsschool.org/summer-camp; Camp Contact: Rosie Williams, Co-Director. Girls entering grades 4, 5, or 6 are invited to join us for full-day (8:30-3:30) summer camp as we explore weekly themes through writing, cooking, field trips, art projects, and more!
Skate School Skateboard Camps, 825 Early St. #H, Santa Fe, NM 87505. Phone: 505-474-0074; Contact: Joe Lehm; Email: skateschoolsantafe@gmail.com; Website: skateboardsafety.com. Skateboard Ramps and Bowls Camps: Young riders will get expert instruction, mornings at Public Skate Parks and afternoon at our indoor park. Ages 8 and up, 9am to 4pm. May 27-31, June 3-7, June 17-21, July 8-12, July 15-19. Cost $350 plus tax. Long Board Camps: Ride the school's boards and learn to turn, stop and slide while riding local bike paths and at our Indoor Park. Ages 9 and up, 9am to 4pm. June 10-12, July 1-3, July 22-24. $220 plus tax.
Wise Fool New Mexico, 1131 Siler Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87507. Phone: 505-992-2588; Email: amelia@wisefoolnm.org; Camp Contact: Amelia Calsi, Youth Coordinator. Website: https://wisefoolnewmexico.org/ classes/youth; Ages: 4 years to entering 12th grade. Wise Fool's kids programs allow your kiddos to run away with the circus, without leaving home! Students learn stilt-walking, unicycling, aerial fabric, trapeze, juggling, puppet-making, clowning and more, all in a safe, non-competitive environment. All Levels: July 1-12, 9am-3:30pm, Ages 7-12, Cost $700. No experience necessary. Continuing: July 15-26, 9am3:30pm, Cost $700. Suitable for students ages 8-13 who have taken at least one session of summer camp or a session of afterschool classes, or have other previous circus experience. Wee Kids Camp: June 17-21, 9am-12:30pm, Cost $340. Wee Kids camp is a half-day camp for 4-6 years old. Teen Circus Camp: June 17-28. 1:30-5pm, Monday-Friday, $520. For youth 13-18 years old. No experience necessary, suitable for all levels! Students will get to explore all the circus arts and then pick a couple of disciplines to focus on to perform in a showcase for friends and family at the end of the two weeks. The camp will also include a focus on conditioning, flexibility and performance skills. Tuition assistance available! Programs fill up quickly, email amelia@ wisefoolnm.org to get on our mailing list or with questions.
1st Class Learning Center, 5111 Homestead Circle NW, Alb., NM 87120. Phone: 505-898-5702; Email: 1stclasslearningcenter@gmail. com; Website: 1stclasslearningcenter.com; Contact: Leann C. Gordinier, Owner/Director. We are now enrolling! We have affordable prices and available discounts. No state tax. We accept ECECD. Ages 6 Weeks To School Age. Stop by to have a tour of the center. Open MondayFriday, 6:30am-6pm. Our Mission Statement: To provide a learning environment that is safe, enjoyable, interesting and peaceful for all children, their families and community. Philosophy: We believe each child develops according to age and capacity, having the freedom to develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually without any pressure. We also believe children learn best when rules and limits are clear and consistent. Most importantly, we believe that children learn best by staff members who create an atmosphere that is loving, warm, caring, and friendly by which all children feel accepted, safe, and a part of 1st Class Learning Center.
Albuquerque Little Theatre Education and Youth ProgramDisney's Descendants: The Musical Camp, 224 San Pasquale SW, Alb., NM 87104. Phone: 505-242-4750; Email: dejah@abqliltheatre. org; Website: https://albuquerquelittletheatre.org/education/; Camp Contact: Dejah Padon, Camp Director/ Education Co-Coordinator. Disney Descendants: The Musical Camp; Ages 9-17; June 10th to July 19th - Monday to Friday, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. In this 6-week camp, discover your passion for performing and embark on an unforgettable theatre adventure with our program. Rehearse, prepare, and perform in a musical theatre production with new friends from all over Albuquerque. As you sing, dance, and act through summer, take your next steps as a young performer. Our production team will inspire and guide you to become a better actor, singer, and dancer while working with fellow students as a team to put together the best musical theatre experience. Performance Dates: July 20th and 21st at 2:00 pm - Campers/Performers must be available for all performances. Camp/ Show T-Shirt included, show script, and two complimentary tickets to the performances.
WHY IS IT A SIX WEEK CAMP?
We want to create an outstanding musical production for the community, which requires a considerable amount of preparation time for the ALT staff, production team, and performers. This also allows young performers to have a complete musical experience. We understand that families may have scheduled vacations during the summer, but we are willing to work around these conflicts as long as we are informed beforehand. However, performers must be available during the tech week from July 15th to July 19th, as well as the two performance dates on July 20th and 21st. If you are interested in this camp and have financial concerns, we offer payment options. Additionally, the Albuquerque Theatre Guild will soon offer scholarships on their website for theatre summer camps in Albuquerque, https:// www.abqtheatre.org/. Apart from preparing for the show, we will also have theatre games and activities that will give performers some time (continued on next page)
to bond, make friends, and have fun. **Payment Options Available, please call the Box Office at 505-242-4750 ext.2.
Albuquerque Museum School, 2000 Mountain Rd. NW, Alb., NM 87104. Phone: 505-764-6515; Email: ebecker@cabq.gov; Website: albuquerquemuseum.org; Camp Contact: Elizabeth Becker, Curator of Education. Make the Museum your classroom! Weeklong classes for ages 3-14. Morning or afternoon sessions in June and July. $75-$125 per week.
Archaeology Summer Camp, ‘Want To Be A Junior Archaeologist?’ 11776 Hwy 337 (Museum behind the Ranger Station), Tijeras, NM 87059. Phone: 505-385-6218; 915-329-3479; 505-2813304. Email: pmichel9@comcast.net; Website: friendsoftijeraspueblo. org/home. Camp Contact: Paula Michel, Board Director, Education and Volunteer Coordinator. Sponsored by Friends of Tijeras Pueblo and the Cibola National Forest. Spend a week outdoors with professional and avocational archaeologists learning excavation and survey methods, local history, and how to record sites and artifacts. July 22-26 (9am - noon) Ages: 9-13 (parents welcome to attend with your child) Suggested Donation: $100, limited to 20 students, closes on July 1. Please contact: Paula Michel 505-385-6218, Greg Busse 915-329-3479, or the Sandia Ranger District 505-281-3304.
Ballet Repertory Theatre of New Mexico BRT's Academy, 6913 Natalie Ave NE, Alb., NM 87110, Phone: 505-888-1054; Email: brt@ brtnm.com; Website: brtnm.com; Camp Contact: Katherine Giese, Executive/Artistic Director. Ballet Repertory Theatre’s Academy has ballet, modern, and special classes offered throughout the summer. Monthly tuition ranges from $51-$80 for one class per week. Please email brt@brtnm.com if you are interested and check our website www.brtnm.com for more information.
Bosque Summer, 4000 Bosque School Rd. NW, Alb., NM 87120. Phone: 505-898-6388; Email: bosqueschool@bosqueschool.org; Website: https://www.bosqueschool.org/bosquesummer; Camp Contact: Phoebe Cooper, Summer Program Coordinator. Discover why Bosque Summer has been chosen as the best summer camp in Albuquerque for six years in a row by voters in the Albuquerque Journal Readers’ Choice Awards! With Bosque Summer, your child can build their own adventure with the flexibility of our weeklong, half-day and full-day programs for students entering grades K–12. Our diverse selection of courses is designed to spark your child’s curiosity and encourage them to explore new interests. Whether you seek academic enrichment, creative adventures, skill development, meaningful movement, or just plain fun, Bosque Summer will keep your child active, engaged, and excited about learning.
Camp Invention, Various locations throughout New Mexico, Phone: 800-968-4332; Email: campinvention@invent.org; Website: invent.org/ local; Camp Contact: Corey Nielsen - Customer Relations Department. Spark your child’s curiosity and creativity with our all-new Camp Invention® program, Illuminate! Campers in grades K-6 will collaborate
with friends to take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. From designing a light-up ball game to tackling global water challenges to starring in a prototyping game show, each experience adds up to an imaginationstretching, confidence-boosting summer. Visit invent.org/local to secure your spot! Dates: various weeks throughout the summer. Dance Theatre Southwest, 3805 Academy Parkway South NE, Alb., NM 87109. Phone: 505-296-9465; Email: dancetheatresouthwest@ gmail.com; Website: dtsw.com; Contact: Patricia Dickinson Wells. All ages. We provide summer classes to everyone interested in building better dance skills over the summer months! Looking For An Alternative? Look no further! Advanced/Intermediate levels of ongoing 6 weeks of classes, Young Dancers Intensives, and Kidz Dance Kamps. Three distinctly different programs for dancers of all ages: 1) 6 weeks of evening and weekend ongoing summer classes for Advanced/ Intermediate levels and adults includes Classical Ballet, Pointe, Modern/Contemporary, Jazz, and Pilates. 2) Young Dancers Workshop for ages 8-14 includes Classical Ballet, Pointe/Pre-Pointe, Modern/ Contemporary, Jazz, Hip-Hop and Pilates. 3) Two weeks of fun Kidz Kamps for ages 3-7 with different themes each week in June/July. Find us on Facebook and Instagram!
Explora Summer Camps, 1701 Mountain Rd., Alb., NM 87104. Phone: 505-600-6072; Email: reservations@explora.us; Website: explora.us/camps/programs. Camp Contact: Tara Henderson, thenderson@explora.us. Camps start June 3; Registration open. Join us for investigation, discovery, and hands-on summer fun! Explora offers weeklong summer camps that inspire PreK-12th grade learners to get excited about science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Campers get engaged and keep their brain cells buzzing by exploring STEAM topics in materials-rich and creative environments. Financial aid available, contact reservations@explora.us. Each weeklong, half-day camp costs $170/195 non-members. All camp options available with supervised lunchtime. Voted Albuquerque's “Best of the City!”
Glorieta Camps - Glorieta Day Camp, 11 State Road 50, Glorieta, NM 87535. Phone: 505.757.6161; Email: info@glorieta.org; Website: www.Glorieta.org; Camp Contact: Mackenzie Bell, Day Camp Manager or Paul Morrison, Retreats Manager. Glorieta Day Camp is a five-day camp experience unlike any other! Kids, ages 6-13, are invited to our fun-filled, action-packed, Christ-centered program that’s loaded with activities and learning experiences. Fill your kids’ summers with adventure and treasured memories! Cost: $350. Optional extras come with additional costs. These include transportation or our retail bundle "Adventure Packs." For more information and dates, please visit www. Glorieta.org/daycamp. Or plan to bring the whole family for our special Family Fun Day, July 20. Learn more and register at www.glorieta.org/ retreats/fun-day/.
Harwood Art Center’s Summer Art Camp, 1114 7th St. NW, Alb., NM 87102. Phone: 505-242-6367; Email: artcamp@harwoodartcenter. org. Website: harwoodartcenter.org/summer-art-camp; Camp Contact: Ruby Rodriguez, Arts Education Coordinator. Summer Art Camp offers multi-disciplinary, multicultural experiences for youth in grades 1-9. Since 1996, Harwood’s summer programming has fostered creativity and curiosity in young artists of all skill levels. Art Camp provides fun skill building projects as well as opportunities for both individual and collaborative creative exploration. Summer Art Camp runs over four two-week sessions throughout June 3 through July 26 with full and half day options for students.
Highland Dance Albuquerque, 3848 Rio Grande Blvd NW Suite B, Alb., NM 87107. Phone: 443-624-6658; Email: emma@ highlanddanceabq.com; Website: www.highlanddanceabq.com; Camp Contact: Emma Trentman, Director. Highland Dance Albuquerque offers Scottish Highland Dance lessons for ages 3+. Summer session runs May 29-July 3. Scottish Highland Dance provides fun, fitness, and friendships!
HOPE Christian School - HOPE Engage, 6721 Palomas Ave NE, Alb., NM 87109. Phone: 505-918-7101; Email: summerprogramsdirector@ hcsnm.org; Website: HCSNM.org/summer; Camp Contact: Taylor Tabet, Director of Summer Programs. Camp Engage SUMMER DAY CAMP is an all-day experience for students entering 1st-5th grade. Campers will be guided through a rotating schedule full of activities, games, and (continued on next page)
outdoor fun!! There are themes for each week of camp - like Tropics, Olympics, Master Chef, Wild West, S.T.E.M., and two Water weeks! Sign your child up for one or all eight. HCSNM.org/summer Join us for an unforgettable summer of fun and memory-making with fellow campers at HOPE Christian Elementary’s beautiful state-of-the-art campus along Paseo del Norte in NE Albuquerque. Children need not attend HOPE Christian School to enroll in our summer camps. ATHLETIC CAMPS also offered for students of all ages. Non-HOPE campers welcome.
Huntington Learning Center, 8201 Golf Course Rd. NW, Ste. B-3, Alb., NM 87120. Phone: 505-797-3073; Contact: Sohale Mufti; Website: huntingtonhelps.com. Grades: K-12; Days/Hours: Monday to Saturday. Year after year we continue to offer children, ages 5-17, supplemental instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, study skills, phonics, and related areas, as well as SAT/ACT test preparation. The positive encouragement of our staff and certified teachers combined with individualized instruction based on our diagnostic testing, is what we believe sets us apart and continues to make our program a success.
Kay's All Swim School, 9737 4th St. NW, Alb., NM 87114. Website: KaysAllSwimSchool.com. Celebrating 50+ years of excellent personalized swim instruction for infants, children & adults! Warm Water Walking for adults - gentle on joints! The water is always warm in an enclosed, chlorine-free, 100 percent UV-protected pool. When your children are ready to receive the best in swim instruction, take them to Kay's! Swim Lessons Save Lives!
Keshet Dance and Center for the Arts - Keshet Summer Dance Camps, 4121 Cutler Ave NE, Alb., NM 87110. Phone: 505224-9808; Email: info@KeshetArts.org; Website: www.keshetarts. org; Camp Contact: Ana Lopez Aréchiga, Director of Programming and Engagement.
June 17-21, 2024 Little Movers Camp (Ages 4-5) 9am-12pm
A half-day camp designed just for the youngest dancers. Dancers will take Ballet, Contemporary, and Creative Movement classes. Dancers will perform short pieces that they have learned for their family and friends at the conclusion of camp on Friday! No experience necessary.
Half days from 9:00am-12:00pm
$100-$200 sliding scale, OR $45/day
June 17-21, 2024 Dance Sampler (Ages 6-8) 1pm-4pm
A half-day camp designed just for our growing dancers to sample various dance forms!! Dancers will take Contemporary, Ballet and Improvisation! Dancers will perform short pieces that they have learned for their family and friends at the conclusion of camp on Friday! No experience necessary.
Half days from 1:00pm-4:00pm
$100-$200 sliding scale, OR $45/day
July 15-19th, 2024 Contemporary, Choreography and Ballet (Ages 9-18)
9:00am-4:00pm
Build dance foundations in our one-week camp. Explore Contemporary and Ballet techniques. Performance showcase at the end. No experience necessary.
$150-$300 sliding scale, OR $75/day
Keshet Dance and Center for the Arts - Keshet Pre-Professional Summer Camps, 4121 Cutler Ave NE, Alb., NM 87110. Phone: 505224-9808; Email: info@KeshetArts.org; Website: www.KeshetArts. org; Camp Contact: Laura Orozco Garrett, Community Education & KP3 Program Manager.
Pre-Professional Program Immersion, June 10-14, 2024, (Ages 10-18) 9:30am-3pm
This one-week Pre-Professional Program Immersion is designed for motivated and experienced dancers ages 10-18. Dancers will take daily classes in contemporary, ballet, and more, refining technique while broadening understanding of various dance styles. Dancers must have significant prior training in contemporary and/or ballet in order to attend this Immersion. Placement auditions take place on the first day in ballet class. This is a great way to kick off the 20242025 pre-professional training season!
*Prior experience required.
Pre-registration and dress code is required. Drop off begins at 9:00am. $150-$300 sliding scale, OR $75/day
Pre-Professional Program Immersion, July 22-26, 2024, (Ages 10-18) 9:30am-3pm
This one-week Pre-Professional Program Immersion is designed for motivated and experienced dancers ages 10-18. Dancers will take daily classes in contemporary, ballet, and more, refining technique while broadening understanding of various dance styles.
Dancers must have significant prior training in contemporary and/or ballet in order to attend this Immersion. Placement auditions take place on the first day in ballet class. This is a great way to kick off the 20242025 pre-professional training season!
*Prior experience required.
Pre-registration and dress code is required. Drop off begins at 9:00am. $150-$300 sliding scale, OR $75/day
Learners Summer Chess Camps, 532 Adams NE, Alb., NM 87108. Phone: 505- 369-6026; Email: learnerschess@gmail.com; Website: learnerschess.org; Camp Contact: Victor Lopez, Camp Director. Every summer, kids from all across NM come together at Learners Summer Chess Camps to rekindle friendships, make new friends, learn together, study together, challenge each other, compete, mentor each other, be mentored by Learners' Chess Coaches, experience the latest advancements in the Learners Chess curriculum and process, play Capture the Flag and Frisbee and other fun games, earn prizes including more multi-colored chess pieces for their own colored chess set, get a Learners T-shirt, and improve their thinking as chess players, thinkers, social actors, and leaders. Open to ages 6 and up, all chess skill and experience levels welcome. Locations: Weeklong Camps (mornings, 8:30am to noon, afternoons 1pm to 4:30pm, or full days 8:30am to 4:30pm), Before and after care available. Sibling discounts available. Need-Based Scholarships Available. Central ABQ (532 Adams NE): June 3-7, 10-14, 17-21, 24-28, July 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, 29 - Aug. 2, possible additional weeks. North Valley (MRGCC): June 5-9. NE Heights, Rio Rancho (First Baptist Church), and other location dates available! See website for details.
Manzano Day School Summer Discovery, 1801 Central Ave. NW, Alb., NM 87104. Phone: 505-243-6659; Website: manzanodayschool. org; The Summer Discovery program ignites joy in learning! Manzano Day School’s summer program stimulates critical and creative thinking in its participants. It is a 6-week program (three 2-week blocks) offering experiences with math, reading, writing, science, movement and games, music, and more! Children are guided through exploring, experimenting and problem-solving by highly qualified teachers, providing them with many opportunities to gain confidence and experience success. Manzano Day School’s educational philosophy inspires excitement for self-discovery and the development of life-long learners. The academic focus of our Summer Discovery program is to further prepare children for the grade they will be entering for the upcoming school year. Summer Discovery is open to all children ages 3-1/2 to 11 years old from the Albuquerque area. Children enrolled in the Pre-K program must be at least 3 years old and potty-trained by March 31. Other classes are available for students rising into the first through fifth grades for the 2024-2025 school year. The 2024 Summer Discovery program presented from June 3 - July 12. Program hours are 9am – 3pm, Monday through Friday. Before- and after-care may be available for an additional charge. We are hiring Extended Day workers.
Musical Theatre Southwest - D.A.M.P. Camp, 6320 Domingo Rd NE Ste B, Alb., NM 87112. Phone: 505-265-9119; Email: education@ mtsabq.org; Website: mtsabq.org; Camp Contact: Jenni Hipolito - Chair, Education Committee. Come get your feet wet in musical theatre! Learn Dance, Acting, Music, and the Production/Tech side. Join us April 1-5 from 10am - 12pm from 4 different instructors. Best part? No experience necessary and all abilities are welcome. All 6th -12th Grade students are welcome! Sibling discount available!
Musical Theatre Southwest - A Year with Frog and Toad Kids, 6320 Domingo Rd NE Ste B, Alb., NM, 87112. Phone: 505-265-9119; Email: education@mtsabq.org; Website: mtsabq.org; Camp Contact: Jenni Hipolito - Chair, Education Committee. Come spend 3 weeks with us at Musical Theatre Southwest. Our first show of the summer is A Year with Frog and Toad Kids! Bring your lunch and come ready to learn acting techniques, learn music and choreography and get ready to perform the shows 3 times. Our instructors are excited to work with you. Gain confidence, friendships, and build lifelong memories with us this summer, we can't wait to see you! Ages 8-13. A Year with Frog and Toad Kids camp will run June 10-28 (M-F 9am-3pm) with performances on (continued on next page)
Sat/Sun June 29-39. Early Registration open March 1- April 30th, $350 per student. General Registration stary May 1, $400 per student. Musical Theatre Southwest - Moana Jr., 6320 Domingo Rd NE Ste B, Alb. NM, 87112. Phone: 505-265-9119; Email: education@mtsabq. org; Website: mtsabq.org; Camp Contact: Jenni Hipolito - Chair, Education Committee. Come spend 3 weeks with us at Musical Theatre Southwest. Our second show of the summer is Moana Jr. Bring your lunch and come ready to learn acting techniques, learn music and choreography and get ready to perform the shows 3 times. Our instructors are excited to work with you. Gain confidence, friendships, and build lifelong memories with us this summer, we can't wait to see you! Ages 13-18. Moana Jr. camp will run July 8- 26 (M-F 9am - 3pm) with performances on Sat/Sun July 27-28. Early Registration open March 1- April 30th, $350 per student. General Registration stary May 1, $400 per student.
National Museum of Nuclear Science & History’s Summer Camp 2024, 601 Eubank Blvd. SE, Alb., NM 87123. Phone: 505-2452137; Email: brobin@nuclearmuseum.org; Website: nuclearmuseum. org; Contact: Linda Anderson, Education Enrichment Coordinator. Weeklong, "Science is Everywhere" Summer Camps, June 3-July 26 Students Pre-K – 6th grade can enroll in one, two, or all week-long camps, and they will experience exciting science and fun activities at the museum from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Please note that some camps held after during holiday weeks are shorter and will be at a lower fee. Five-day camps are $360 per child/per week Fourday camp (week of June 17th) are $288 per child/per week and threeday camps (week of July 1st) are $216 Our education team will divide camp topics into week-long camps that are multi-age collaborative camper experiences. The full-day camp programs run from 8:30 am3:30 pm. Before-care is available from 7:30-8:30 am and after-care from 3:30-5:30 pm. There is no additional cost for before and after-care, and they are available regardless of the camper's use. Museum members receive a discount after February 10. A member discount code will be sent to members. For more information on our "Science is Everywhere" Summer Camps, please email landerson@nuclearmuseum.org Please note, that if you register after May 13, your child may not receive a summer camp T-shirt.
NDI New Mexico Summer Half-day and full-day programs for ages three to adult! Register online now at ndi-nm.org for classes at The Hiland Theater in Albuquerque or The Dance Barns in Santa Fe. Offering classes from Creative Movement to Hip-Hop plus Summer Intensive for incoming 4th-9th graders June 10-28! Classes are offered on a sliding scale based on income to be affordable to all families! View the full schedule online!
New Mexico Young Actors Summer Theater Workshops, Menaul School, 301 Menaul Blvd. NE, Alb., NM 87107. Phone: 505821-8055; Email: info@nmyoungactors.org; Website: nmyoungactors. org; Camp Contact: Rachel Ribeiro, Executive Director. Learn the basics of stage acting with emphasis on movement, improv and character development in our Summer Drama I class! Dive into Shakespeare with no fear in our 2nd Annual NMYA Shakespeare Summer Fest! Classes June 3-June 27, Mon-Thurs; 9-11am and 3-5:30pm. For youth ages 9 to 19. For more info and registration, go to www.nmyoungactors.org.
Painted Iguana Art Classes, 142 Big Horn Ridge Ct. NE, Alb., NM 87122. Phone: 505-720-1906 Email: paintediguana@gmail.com; Website: paintediguana.com; Contact: Theresa Hall, Artist & Educator. Paint parties designed just for kids! Bring out the Van Gogh when children go to the studio. Foster a love of art in your child & fill your home with acrylic creations this summer. Choose from up to THREE sessions/paintings during June & July. Each session lasts two weeks. Students attend ONCE a week during these two weeks. Each class is two hours long. Choose to attend Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, OR Thursday. Afternoon class times for busy summer families - 3-5pm. All supplies are furnished - brushes, acrylic paint, & canvas. Students receive instruction on brush use, color mixing, & sketching. Which all new paintings will you choose from this summer? Session I – In a GALAXY Far Away, Session II – LLAMA rama! Session III – DOGGY Doggy Where’s Your Bone?. Call for new session dates & painting details, or check the website. Cost: $66 (tax included) per session. Always customized & encouraging art instruction for each artist ages 6-16. Come see why art is the adventure children never want to end!
Ready, Set, Violin! a commitment free introduction to violin (ages 3-9). Phone: 505-926-1533; Email: alissa@abqstrings.studio; Camp Contact: Alissa Rieb, co-director. Interested in violin, but not sure you're ready for the commitment of lessons? Join us in a fun filled, music immersive mini camp to introduce you and your little one to the world of violin. Classes are 1 hour a day with multiple times to choose from. All materials included (no instruments needed). World renowned faculty. Learn more at crystalboyackmusicstudio.com/readysetviolin.
Rio Grande Educational Collaboration - RGEC Full Day Summer Program, 6260 Riverside Plaza Lane NW, Ste. A, Alb., NM 87120. Phone: 505-873-6035; Email: cgarcia@rgec.org; Website: www.rgec. org; Camp Contact: Crystal Garcia Business Development Manager. Embark on a summer adventure with RGEC! Join our full-day programs in Albuquerque and nearby areas. "A Journey Through Space and Time" awaits with daily in-class discovery, outdoor fun, fitness, and solar system exploration. Enroll your child for an unforgettable summer experience. Stay tuned for details at www.rgec.org!
Sandia Preparatory School – SummerPrep, 532 Osuna Road NE, Alb., NM, 87113. Phone: 505-338-3045; Email: summerprep@ sandiaprep.org; Website: summerprep@sandiaprep.org; Camp Contact: Melissa Adams, Director of SummerPrep. What do Minecraft, Aikido, and Hogwarts have in common? They are all classes at SummerPrep 2024! SummerPrep, Sandia Prep's summer program, runs from June 3 - July 12 and offers enriching, creative classes and opportunities to learn new skills or build on existing talents. More than 100 tech, art, athletic, and academic classes are offered for students from any school in Pre-K through high school. New classes this year include My First Lemonade Stand, Real-World Graphic Design, Pokémon, Jr. CEOs, Young Trailblazers: Five-Day Outdoor Adventure, and many more! Fan favorites like our famous Main Stage Theater productions (Wizard of Oz and Disney's Frozen JR.), Archery, Kids Cook!, and Minecraft are returning! At SummerPrep, we foster discovery and exploration and encourage students to enjoy themselves in a safe, supportive environment. View classes and register at summerprep.org. (continued on next page)
Theater: Musicals like Aladdin JR. are always popular at SummerPrep. This year's productions are Disney's Frozen JR. and Wizard of Oz.
SpiritFly Expeditions - Learn to Fly Fish, 5758 De Baca Ct NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144. Phone: 505-328-0047; Email: adventures@ spiritflyexpeditions.com; Website: spiritflyexpeditions.com; Camp Contact: Nick Campos. Our "Learn to Fly Fish" class is a 2-3 hour session for ages 10 and up. Students will learn the fundamentals of Fly Fishing on our local Rio Grande River. We provide all of the necessary equipment, the only thing you need to bring is a pair of sunglasses and an open mind. Prices start at $125. Group and Family discounts are available.
St. John's United Methodist Church - "MONUMENTAL" VBS, 2626 Arizona St. NE, Alb., NM 87110. Phone: 505-883-9717; Email: childrensdirector@stjohns-abq.org; Website: www.stjohns-abq.org; Camp Contact: Angela Lybarger, Children's Ministry Director. Join us June 24-28, from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm daily as we explore God's greatness and incredible love for us all. Our "MONUMENTAL" VBS experience will include music, Bible adventures, games, science & crafts, snacks, lunch, and lots of fun! Open to kids ages 3-10 years/5th grade (must be potty trained). Cost is $25 per child (discounts for multiple siblings). Early bird registration by June 1st will only be $20 per child. St. John's UMC is a Safe Sanctuaries organization.
Story Tables, Tabletop Roleplaying Youth Camp, 1410 San Pedro Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110. Phone: (805) 421-6082; Email: info@ storytables.com; Website: www.storytables.com; Camp Contact: Ashton MacSaylor, Founder. Join Story Tables and let your imagination take flight! In this tabletop roleplaying game youth program for ages 9-18, you can explore the magical world of Isles of Mist: create characters, join the story, roll your dice, and become a legend! Isles of Mist is our original game system, similar to other popular rpgs such as Dungeons and Dragons, but designed for younger players. The system is easy to learn and fun to master. Players learn to work together as a team to solve a wide variety of complex problems. This gives them a chance to hone skills such as empathy, communication, teamwork, and critical thinking, all while being immersed in a gripping story. This year, sessions will be hosted at Albuquerque Homeschool Connection, at 1410 San Pedro Dr. NE. We run from 9 am to 4 pm for a full five-day week, Monday through Friday, at a cost of $350 for one week. The weeks available include June 3-7, June 10-14, July 15-19, July 29 - Aug 2. Hope to see you there!
The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW, Alb., NM 87102. Phone: 505-750-1713; Email: TheGrooveArtspace@gmail.com; Website: thegrooveartspace.com; Contact: Erica Harding.
Clay Sculpture with Katie K-2 - Make fun and fabulous sculptures from clay with art teacher Katie Baca. For kids K-2nd grade. 06/03/20249:00-11:00 am; Cost: $50
Clay Sculpture with Katie - Make fun and fabulous sculptures from clay with art teacher Katie Baca. For kids 3rd-5th grade. 06/03/2024 - noon3:00 pm; Cost: $50
Printmaking with Katie - 3rd-5th Grade - Explore printmaking with art teacher Katie Baca. Kids in 3rd-5th grade. 06/10/2024 - noon-3:00 pm; Cost: $50
Fiber Art Making with Katie - K-2nd Grade - Explore making fiber based art with Katie Baca. K-2nd grade. 06/17/2023 - 9:00-11:00 am; Cost: $50
Fiber Art with Katie - 3rd-5th Grade - Explore making fiber based art with Katie Baca. 3rd-5th grade. 06/17/2023 - noon-3:00 pm; Cost: $50
Paint a Video Landscape with Katie K-2nd Grade - Explore creating and painting a video landscape with art teacher Katie Baca. K-2nd grade. 06/24/2023 - 9:00-11:00 am; Cost: $50
Paint a Video Landscape with Katie. 3rd-5th Grade - Explore creating and painting a video landscape with art teacher Katie Baca. K-2nd grade. 06/24/2023 - noon-3:00 pm; Cost: $50
The Public Library Albuquerque Bernalillo County - Summer Reading Program, 501 Copper Ave. NW, Alb., NM, 87102. Phone: 505-768-5141; Email: library@cabq.gov; Website: abqlibrary.org; Camp Contact: Cody Wesner-Ellis. The Public Library of AlbuquerqueBernalillo County invites everyone to join us for our 2024 Summer Reading Program, a celebration of reading, learning, and fun for children, tweens, teens, and adults! Read books, attend events, earn prizes, and more. All for free! This 8-week program kicks off June 1 and runs through July 27. Register online beginning May 13 or in person at one of our 19 locations beginning June 1.
Tutor-Me, 5528 Eubank NE, Ste. 6, Alb., NM 87111. Phone: 505-3074170; Contact: Sandra Akkad, Founder. Website: mytutorme.com. Register now for summer classes! Ongoing online tutoring. Focusing on K-12. Homework Help. Tutor-Me is a premier learning center that offers a hands-on approach when helping students. We stimulate & motivate while enriching and helping our students. Tutor-Me provides a safe, conducive, and nurturing environment. We offer classes in all Math, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Phonics, English, Science, standardized testing, PSAT, ACT, SAT and more. Classes in Spanish, French and Arabic. We offer a free trial. Check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/mytutorme. Summer Registration Now Open!
We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym, Westside ABQ2024 Summer Camp Series, 1101 Golf Course Rd SE, Ste 103, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Phone: 505-410-9548; Email: info@werockthespectrumwestsideabq.com; Website: www. werockthespectrumwestsideabq.com; Camp Contact: Lindsey Salazar, Program Manager. Weekly Camps from June 3rd - August 1st! Camp will include Open Play time in Gym, Arts and Crafts, Sensory Play and Experiments, Snacks and More! Camp for ages 5 - 7 will run each week from 9a.m. - 12p.m. Camp for ages 8 - 12 will run each week from 1p.m. - 4p.m. Weekly registration cost: $160/week (Weekly Registration open until Full or 7 days prior to 1st day of Camp) Daily registration cost: $50/day (Daily Registration open until Full or 7 days prior to 1st day of Camp) Drop off cost (24 hour notice minimum and registration required): $65/day To register: www.werockthespectrumwestsideabq.com
We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym, Westside ABQ - Play! Learn! Grow! Group Time, 1101 Golf Course Rd. SE, Ste 103, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Phone: 505-410-9548; Email: info@ werockthespectrumwestsideabq.com; Website: https:// werockthespectrumwestsideabq.com/; Camp Contact: Lindsey Salazar, WRTS, Westside Program Manager. Play! Learn! Grow! Groups are designed to give children ages 3-5 of varying abilities a place to develop wholistically. Following the natural rhythms of our world, each session will use the seasons of the year, its climate, holidays, celebrations, and stories to create an environment that supports a child’s discovery of their unique Self and promotes their engagement with the world around them. Through play and exploration, art and music, and story and response children will have opportunities to … Play! Learn! And Grow! The group meets June 3rd - August 2nd, 2024. 9:00am to 12pm. Play! Learn! Grow! Group Time is led by Carol Flegal. Carol holds a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon and has extensive experience teaching in the field of Early Childhood Education.
First-graders at the New Mexico International School raised $500 on behalf of the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science and the foundation that supports it during a school project that emphasized care for the Earth. As a tribute to forever commemorate their efforts and their impactful contribution, an engraved brick was laid at the museum entrance, 1801 Mountain Road NW, in March.
The heartwarming project, which occurred last year, was part of the school’s curriculum theme, "How the World Works." The students began by brainstorming creative ways to contribute. One standout idea came from student Adrienne McElheney, whose initiative sparked a remarkable fundraising and community-building effort. Lemonade stands were set up near the school in a local park, becoming a focal point for donations. Families, students, and community members rallied together, enjoying refreshing lemonade while supporting a meaningful cause. This endeavor not only raised funds but also fostered a sense of unity and purpose within the community.
The students’ brick is engraved with an abbreviation standing for the school, the participating class, and the project timeline: “NMISleroGRADO 2022-2023.” It sits among a sea of hundreds of bricks, some of which are blank and others that honor a special event or loved one. The bricks are part of the museum’s Pave the Way legacy brick fundraising program, which is open to anyone seeking a way to support the museum.
Indeed, throughout the school project, students immersed themselves in learning about the museum and its mission. They created posters, engaged in discussions, and actively shared their newfound knowledge with others. These activities not only raised awareness but also instilled a sense of pride and ownership in the students, knowing that their efforts were contributing to a greater cause.
This project exemplifies the power of community, education, and determination. It highlights the importance of supporting institutions like the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, which play a crucial role in educating and inspiring future generations or scientists and paleontologists. Through their initiative, the first-grade classes have not only
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supported a worthy cause but have also learned valuable lessons about collaboration, empathy, and the impact their actions have on the world around them.
To learn how to support or get involved with the museum, visit the New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation’s website, www.naturalhistoryfoundation.org, or call 505.841.2838.
Albuquerque
It doesn't matter who my father was; it matters who I remember he was.
-- Anne Sexton, Pulitzer Prize-winning American poet Fathers play a significant role in their children’s lives. They're essential role models, they influence self-esteem and school performance, and they make great coaches. Once children have grown and aged, fathers become best friends and
confidants, and are there to lend a hand.
Father’s Day is just around the corner – June 16 – so don’t be caught scrambling for the perfect way to show you care. Try some of these ideas to show your dad just how important he is to you.
Video Surprise – Make a "World's Best Dad" video that he'll treasure for years to come. Put on your brainstorming cap for your own ideas, or try some of these ideas for your video. Share special memories of your dad, sing to him, read him a poem, or do skits. Get the whole family involved and conduct interviews with each other, with Dad as the main topic. Don't forget background props, such as a banner or collection of his prized possessions, including sports trophies or equipment, to add a personal touch. Most importantly, be sure to let him know just how much he means to you.
King for the Day – It isn't every day that your dad gets waited on hand and foot. Offer to be his loyal servant for the day. Take him coffee and toast in bed; fetch his newspaper; lay out his clothes, bath towel, and mat; be host or hostess and serve him beverages and snacks; clean up after him. Consider giving him the royal treatment with a gift certificate for a professional massage.
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$62,000 Grant Available
Learn to teach from a master teacher and earn your master’s degree at the same time!
Complete a one-year residency working alongside a mentor teacher. Spend 60% of the school week at the school site and spend 40% completely devoted to your coursework.
You are ready to apply if:
☐ You want to live in New Mexico or Colorado
☐ Have your Undergraduate Degree
☐ Graduated with a 3.0+ GPA ☐ Want to invest in the Next Generations ☐ Want to teach Secondary Math, Secondary Science, or Special Education
For more information: Padlet.com/swtqp/information, scan the QR Code, call Rayla Vigil at 575-776-7264 or call Bobbie Zemanek - White at 505-486-4874
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Memories of Dad – Buy a scrapbook, and create a record of memories about you and your dad. Include photos of special outings, events, and holidays you've had together. Also include other memorabilia such as concert or sporting event ticket stubs, postcards, and brochures. Next to each photo or item, describe your memories of those special times with him.
A Man to Remember – Get your creative juices flowing, and write a poem for your dad. You don't need to be a poet to come up with a few thoughtful words to express how much he means to you. Describe the impact he's had on your life, how he's helped shape the person you are today, and what he means to you. Then print it on stationery, matte it, and frame it.
Musical Moment – Take your father to see his favorite band or performing artist. Head to a jazz or blues festival, or pack up some lawn chairs, and enjoy a local concert-in-the-park.
Togetherness Takes Two – Has your dad been putting off the dreaded task of cleaning out his attic, basement, or garage? Give him a gift of shelving materials and brackets, wall racks and ceiling hooks, and storage crates, then spend the day helping him to get it all organized while catching up on old times.
World’s Greatest – Let your dad know he's valued 365 days a year. Give him a "World's Greatest Dad" coffee mug, T-shirt, book cover, bookmarker, wallet card, or another trinket that he'll see or use regularly.
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We have ADVENTURE in store for you! Manzano Day School’s NEW Summer Discovery is proud to offer so many different exciting sessions ranging from yoga to math to dance to reading to the fundamentals of volleyball…and that is just to name a few! These specialty classes are designed to academically prepare students for the upcoming school year and to encourage movement and creativity for all ages!
Block Dates:
Block 1: June 3-14
Block 2: June 17-28
Block 3: July 1-12
For more information contact: Tesa Hering, Director thering@manzanodayschool.org (505) 243-6659 x 303
Bring your kids! Explore Santa Fe’s trails! Get some Fresh Air! Meet your community!
Looking for fun things to do with your kids on the weekends? Check out these free hikes in May and June for you and your kids to enjoy.
Vámonos hike on the Dale Ball Trails
Saturday, May 18
9am to 11am
We’ll walk the City View Loop starting at the Sierra del Norte Trailhead on Hyde Park Road.
Take a Kid Hiking Day and Scavenger Hunt Saturday, June 22 9am to 11am
We’ll walk the La Tierra Trails looking for things in nature. Meet at the Frijoles Trailhead.
Afterwards, the ice cream truck comes! 712 Camino de los Montoyas
To see all 30 of the free Vámonos walks and hikes from May through October, go to sfct.org/vamonos
Thank you SF Walking Collaborative!
Become a published artist! Create your own drawing below and mail or email it to Prime Time Publishing: 111 Iron Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM, 87102; kids@newmexico-kids.com. Call us at 505-967-7812 with any questions. Some drawings will be selected to illustrate future issues! Please include your name, age, hometown and contact info.
One of the most well-remembered quotes from Fred Rogers, host of the popular children’s television program “Mr. Rogers Neighborhood,” reminds children and adults to look for “the helpers.” “You will always find people who are helping, and I am comforted by realizing there are so many helpers — so many caring people in the world,” he said.
Courtney Lewis is just such a person, with a mission to see the need in her community and effect change where it is needed most.
Born and raised in Jemez Springs, Lewis earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico and then left the area to pursue graduate studies. She returned to New Mexico to focus her career on children’s mental health.
Lewis settled in Rio Rancho and established Small Steps Child Counseling, specializing in play therapy, infant mental health, child parent psychotherapy and the treatment of highly traumatized kids.
Lewis and her husband, Jeff Utrata, welcomed the first of two children, a daughter named Hope. Trained in child development, Lewis grew concerned when Hope wasn’t meeting developmental milestones such as crawling or babbling. Lewis and Utrata decided early intervention would
be prudent. They turned to Inspirations — one of eight federally sponsored programs in Albuquerque — which provides services for children from birth to 3 years at risk of having learning disabilities or developmental delays.
“Even though I was in the field and able to recognize delays, I hadn’t experienced being an insider and how to apply those skills to my own child. Hope was not generalizing skills she had at home to other environments and was delayed in developing her motor skills and speech,” Lewis said.
Early interventionists suspected Hope had symptoms consistent with autism and referred her to the UNM Center for Development and Disability. UNM-CDD confirmed Hope was on the autism spectrum, with developmental delays.
In general, by 11 months, children can read a parent’s emotions through facial cues, which are vital to language development. Autism spectrum disorder is one type of neurodivergence in which people face difficulty in reading social emotional cues or facial expressions which communicate feelings.
Hope’s diagnosis occurred when the couple was eight months pregnant with their second child, Greyson. Siblings of autistic children have a 1 in 5 chance of being diagnosed with autism,
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Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym®
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compared with a 1 in 26 chance for the general population. When Greyson’s sensory system displayed extremely low distress tolerance in comparison to what is developmentally typical, Lewis again sought out an early intervention program, and Greyson was referred to UNM-CDD for an autism evaluation. Lewis said the diagnoses of her children changed the trajectory of their lives.
“The children had way more needs than we were able to meet,” she said. “A diagnosis benefits parents as their children would be qualified to receive autism specific therapy services such as applied behavioral analysis, as well as multiple authorizations for occupational and speech therapy.”
As luck would have it, Lewis visited a We Rock the Spectrum gym in Tucson, Arizona, a franchise launched by Dina Kimmel of Tarzana, California in 2010 — the same year Lewis founded Small Steps Child Counseling. Kimmel’s neurodivergent child had been kicked out of a gym for tantrums, driving her to take matters into her own hands. She opened the first of a chain of gym franchises, which has expanded to 156 locations in 27 states and eight countries. A lightbulb went on in Lewis’ head.
As a fee-for-service counselor and with societal child trauma increasing, Lewis had been grappling with how to carry the overhead of her burgeoning counseling practice. She delved into the specifics of owning a franchise and realized it offered the potential for an additional source of income that would ease the financial burden of Small Steps and allow her to pay her employees more. It would also prove beneficial, not only for Hope and Greyson, but others facing the same barriers for play in the community.
With the franchise agreement signed in March of 2023, Lewis went full steam ahead. Setting up a gym is one thing, creating a safe play space for children who often experience sensory overload is another. We Rock the Spectrum is keenly aware of essential elements needed for successful play: swings, occupational therapy equipment, soothing and sensory support and a sensory wall, as well as art and calming rooms for kids needing to disengage from stimulus overload.
The facility also includes a retail space selling sensory toys and offices to accommodate Small Steps Counseling clients.
With the grand opening on the horizon, what can one expect when walking into a We Rock the Spectrum gym?
“It will be bright and friendly,” says Lewis, “with an open play environment. The space will be sensory friendly with natural light and will provide open play, up to a point. Once capacity is reached, families can book a time online to play that day.
“While we ask parents to sign a liability waiver and stay to support and supervise, we also offer them free admission and a space to plug in their laptops to make themselves comfortable as their children experience a play space geared especially for them.”
While the gym is well-suited for children with specific needs, Lewis is quick to point out that the gym is for all kids, where every child will meet new friends and find fun.
Lewis and her team hope to meet a variety of needs, with spaces for after-school programs, camps, birthday parties, a teen room with games for neurodivergent teens, spaces where child specialists can meet with families, and the opportunity for supervised playtimes so caregivers can enjoy a “recreational respite.”
The Rio Rancho grand opening had not been scheduled as of mid-April, but a preview for adults and professionals and a meet-and-greet for the community were planned. A playlearn-grow program for ages 3-5 is in the works, and Lewis is working to find a way to credential the gym with Medicaid so respite can be covered by health insurance.
The franchise also has rights to an Eastside location in Albuquerque, but Lewis believes starting with a gym at 1101 Golf Course Road SE in Rio Rancho makes sense.
“Rio Rancho has invested in education for neurodivergent kids,” she said. “We can provide the constant access to sensory experiences they need.”
To learn more about We Rock the Spectrum or its grand opening calendar of events, visit werockthespectrumriorancho.com or call 505-584-6742.
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Sports Buff’s Surprise – Take your dad for a sporting good time. Play a game of golf, tennis, or basketball, go fishing, or enjoy a paddle around a lake. If being a spectator is more his thing, buy tickets to his favorite sporting event, such as a baseball or soccer game, boxing match, or auto race. Weekend Getaway – Get in touch with nature and with each other on a camping trip for two. Either rough it in a tent or rent a mini-cabin at a state park. Spend your weekend hiking, sightseeing, fishing, boating, playing cards, and taking it easy together.
Father’s Day Feast – As the old adage goes, the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Treat Dad to a mouth-watering barbecue. Fix him his favorite: steak, ribs, chicken, burgers, or chops for starters. Don't forget the grilled potatoes or squash, garlic bread or rolls, fresh green beans or asparagus, sweet corn, potato salad, and last but not least, his favorite dessert.
Just the Two of Us – Put together a photo collage of you and your father. There are many ways to do this. Find instructions at your nearby craft store. Keep it simple with a multi-photo frame, or buy a unique 3D photo collage frame. You can find them at art and craft supply stores and online.
Take a Stroll – Enjoy a peaceful walk in the park or the country together. Better yet, gather your bikes or roller blades, hit a scenic bike path, and enjoy the fresh summer air.
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Certificates of Appreciation – Show Dad you appreciate his hard work by returning the favor. Make coupons that say: "In appreciation for all that you do, Dad. Redeem this certificate for a hassle-free car wash by me!" Other favors include sweeping out the garage, mowing the lawn, or any other task he usually handles.
Catch a Flick…..or Two – Treat your dad to a movie fest. Rent a couple of newly released videos or some of his longtime favorites. Or, head to the cinemas for a double feature. Whether you take the movies in at home or in the theater, don’t forget the buttered popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. Get in Touch with His Soft Side – Give your dad a book of poetry specially written for fathers. Try one of these: Fathers: A Collection of Poems, by David Ray and Judy Ray; Fathers: Collected Poems, by Ken Koprowski; and Thoughts to Share with a Wonderful Father: A Collection of Poems, by Blue Mountain Arts Collections.
A Gift of Giving – Does your dad have a favorite cause or charity, such as the Humane Society, the Nature Conservancy, or the American Cancer Society? If so, why not give him a membership or make a donation in his name? Remember, small donations add up and are always appreciated.
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If you could find an easy way to protect your heart health, feel less lonely and feel more connected to others, would you try it? If you have a pet, you already have! Pets provide health benefits to those who love them, and it doesn’t matter if the pet is a dog, cat, chinchilla or frog. They keep us company when we’re alone, make us laugh, provide comfort and reassurance, and give us a sense of connection and purpose. Pets make us feel loved, which gives us an emotional boost. Pets who are happy to see us don’t judge us if we are sweaty or our pants are muddy. Feeling loved for who we are without being judged is a great mood booster. When we cuddle our pets or show them affection, we feel less stressed. This helps our immune systems to stay healthy. It can even help us learn.
In research on the long-term effects of dog ownership on children’s behaviors, scientists found that dog ownership was associated with increased physical activity. Regular physical activity helps support a healthy weight, improves physical and mental well-being, and reduces the risk of disease. Australian researchers studied a sample of 600 children over a three-year period. Some of the children had dogs, some got a dog during the study period, some lost a dog, and some had no dog at all. The boys and girls who had a dog took part in more frequent
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physical activities, such as walking and playing with a dog. The research showed that the impact was particularly striking for girls. Young girls increased their physical activity by 52 minutes a day if their family had a dog. The study also found that girls who lost a dog over the study period decreased their physical activity by about an hour a day. Although researchers do not know why, they plan to conduct more studies to discover the possible reasons for the impact.
In addition to being more active and getting outside more, some studies have shown that kids who have pets have a decreased chance of later developing allergies or asthma. Being exposed to pet dander when young may decrease the chance of developing sensitivities later.
Another big benefit to having pets is the way they help teach kids about responsibility. Getting kids involved in pet care teaches them about the daily tasks of caring for others and helps prepare them for responsibilities later in life. An older child can walk a dog, while a younger one can fill their water bowl. Kids who feel needed have higher self-esteem. Learning to care for and nurture a pet helps kids become more compassionate. Caring for a dependent animal also helps kids understand the needs of others.
Talking to animals has benefits as well. Some research has shown that kids who talk to pets by giving them commands or even just babbling to them have improved cognitive
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development. Many schools and libraries participate in programs where children read to a dog, which helps with cognitive development and reading skills. Dogs don’t judge, and kids feel less pressure about reading correctly. This in turn helps them become better readers.
Perhaps the biggest benefit of all in having a pet is the increase kids have in overall happiness. Playing with a pet raises a child’s levels of serotonin and dopamine, the mood boosters that calm the mind. Caring for pets lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Knowing all the benefits that come from having pets makes having one in the home not only a happy decision, but a scientifically proven one with demonstrated benefits. Find out more about reading to dogs at abqlibrary. org/readtothedogs and childrenshour.org/readingto-dogs.
Lots to choose from: outdoor classes, indoor classes, and dance camps!
All classes and camps are offered on a sliding scale/unlimited noncompetitive scholarship payment system!
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Locations
OUTDOOR CLASSES • June 11 - August 3
Wednesdays 5-6pm and/or Saturdays 9:30-10:30am
$0-$20 sliding scale per class!
CLASSES @ KESHET CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Classes in Contemporary, Ballet, Mixed Ability, and more!
June 11 - August 3 • Ages 8-18
All levels and abilities — registration is ongoing!
CAMPS @ KESHET CENTER FOR THE ARTS!
Little Movers Camp (Ages 4-5), June 17-21, 9am-12pm
Dance Sampler (Ages 6-8), June 17-21, 1pm-4pm Contemporary, Choreography and Ballet (Ages 9-18), July 15-19, 9am-4pm
Make new friends Boost confidence & creativity
It was Christmas 1776 in Pennsylvania, but few soldiers of the frozen, exhausted Continental Army were aware of the date. Most soldiers had not eaten a meal in days, and those lucky enough to have cups had to break the ice just to drink their coffee. Tea, of course, was still forbidden as a symbol of British rule. Many men did not have proper shoes, and their bloody feet dragged in the snow as they marched from New York City, through New Jersey and across the Delaware River into Pennsylvania. The British Army was hot on their tails tracking the bloody footprints in the snow.
The Continental Army was America’s first army, created by the Second Continental Congress in June 1775. The first shots of the American War of Independence from the British Empire had been fired just two months earlier at Lexington and Concord. Congressional leaders in Philadelphia, men like Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, decided after those battles to create an army to send a warning to the British that the Americans were willing to use force to defend their rights. Congress appointed George Washington to command this new army. Washington had served in the British Army during the French and Indian War 20 years earlier, making him a natural choice for commander.
The British and Continental armies clashed outside Boston for the rest of 1775. The British had occupied Boston as
punishment for the Boston Tea Party several years earlier. However, Washington and his men hoisted artillery, large guns that must be dragged by horses or men, onto the hills surrounding Boston. To the British soldiers, it appeared that the Continental Army was about to destroy Boston.
Wisely, as the British and their allies in the city were surrounded and outgunned, they evacuated on March 17, 1776, a day still celebrated in Boston as Evacuation Day. The British headed north to their large naval base at Halifax in Canada. After the British defeat in Boston, Washington knew the British would return to America, and in much greater numbers. He gambled Britain would attack New York, the greatest port in the 13 colonies, from which their powerful navy could conduct military operations. Washington quickly marched the Continental Army and occupied New York.
While the Continental Army sat in New York, Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, and Congress adopted it on July 4, 1776. America had formally declared itself an independent nation. Washington had the declaration read aloud to his soldiers to raucous applause. The exhilaration ended, however, just two months later in September when the British landed 32,000 soldiers and sailors in New York and quickly routed the smaller Continental Army. This defeat sent the Americans marching south through New Jersey and across the Delaware River where they now sat shivering on Christmas Day. It appeared as if the American experiment at independence was at serious risk of failing just six months after independence had been declared.
Thankfully, when the Continental Army crossed the river, Washington ordered the seizure of every boat for 20 miles. With no easy way to cross the river, the British Commander, General Cornwallis, returned his army to New York for the winter. Cornwallis left a garrison force, which is a small part of an army, at Trenton in New Jersey to keep an eye on the Americans on the other side. Surprisingly, the force Washington faced across the river was largely made up of
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Germans, called Hessians. Empires at that time relied upon paid soldiers called mercenaries to fight in their armies. These Hessians were a fearsome and battle-tested group, and it was these soldiers Washington now wanted to attack! After four months of retreat and loss, the Continental Army needed a victory.
Washington designed a complex attack against Trenton: Three groups of men were supposed to cross the river at different places, march more than 10 miles overnight through a blizzard and meet at dawn to surprise the enemy. Uplifted by the thought of attacking instead of retreating, the men jumped into the boats beside their beloved general and re-crossed the Delaware. The artillery in the boats knocked against the men’s frostbitten toes as they crossed the half-frozen river.
Unbeknownst to Washington, only the main attack force made it across the river in the blizzard, while the other two groups turned back. Marching through the night in the snow, the force led by Washington slowly crept toward Trenton where the Hessians lay asleep in their warm beds, their bellies full of Christmas dinners.
The attack needed complete surprise to succeed. However, as Washington and his men trudged through the snow, they awoke a group of hound dogs whose barking in turn woke up
their owner, Dr. John Riker. Luckily, Dr. Riker was a patriot, one who supported American independence, and he grabbed his surgical bag and joined Washington.
The Continental Army caught the Hessians off guard, as no one believed an attack possible in a blizzard. As Washington’s men stormed the city, the Hessians tried to resist but two-thirds of them were killed or surrendered. The Americans suffered two deaths and five wounded. Among the wounded, though, was Lt. James Monroe, with a bad gunshot wound to his shoulder. Dr. Riker hastily clamped the young officer’s wound and saved his life. If Dr. Riker’s hound dogs had not been awoken by the marching Continental Army, Monroe would most likely have died.
The victory at Trenton helped rally more Americans to the cause for independence. While the Continental Army suffered many more setbacks, the Americans eventually defeated the most advanced army in the world and won independence. Monroe survived and became an ambassador to France and secretary of state and war during the War of 1812, as well as the fifth president of the United States. Without the intervention of the hound dogs, America would have lost one of its Founding Fathers. Three cheers for the hounds!
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Weeds away – Are weeds taking over your neighbors' flowerbeds? Offer to get them back into shape. Before you get started, find out which are plants versus flowers that haven't yet bloomed. When in doubt, ask before you pull them. Wear gloves to protect your hands, and hose the ground lightly to loosen roots. Pull weeds from rock beds, shrubbery, and cement cracks. Then dispose of them properly.
Dollars for duds– Have you hit another growth spurt? Ask your parents if you can consign your clothing that no longer fits. Search online for local consignment shops by using "resale," "used clothing," or "consignment" in your search terms. Find out the shops' policies. Then get your clothing ready. Wash and de-wrinkle, then hang or fold them neatly. Don't forget shoes, jackets, and pajamas, too.
Errands for seniors – Are there handicapped, disabled, or older persons in your neighborhood who could use a hand? Offer to run errands within walking or biking distance. Attach a basket to your bike, or carry a backpack for easy transporting. If you have your driver’s license, offer to do more distant runs. Who’s walking who? – If you're looking for a new summer pal, why not make it man's best friend? Pass out fliers to offer your pet-walking services. Never run a dog unless the owner agrees. If the dog starts panting or doesn't want to run, never push it. Dogs can quickly overheat, which can kill them. Make it shine – Round up your friends, and get ready for some cold, wet fun. Hold a car wash in your driveway or in a parking lot with permission from the property owner. Make a large, colorful "Car Wash" sign. Include your cost, setting it at no more than your local car wash charges. Have your supplies handy: a bucket of soapy water, rags or sponge, a hose, and plenty of dry towels.
News courier – Hop on your bike or blades, and spread the news—that is, deliver the news. Apply for a route with your local newspaper, or add your name to the waiting list. Place newspapers either in a newspaper box or on the front porch to make sure they’ll remain dry.
A volunteer vacation – Summer camps are always in need of volunteers. Contact those you’d like to attend, and ask how you can take part. You’ll need to know the age requirements, duties involved, and what activities you’ll be able to participate in. Summer camp staff and volunteers generally are not paid. However, the experience and the week away from home may be well worth it.
Old McDonald had a farm – You don’t have to be raised on a farm to make a good farmhand. Visit area farms, and offer your help. Work may include laboring in fields, to feeding and caring for livestock.
At your service – Offer home cleaning services to your neighbors. Plan to do the following tasks, unless other arrangements are made: dusting furniture and window ledges; vacuuming carpet and stairs; sweeping and mopping tile, linoleum, and wooden floors; scouring sinks, bathtubs, and toilets; shaking out rugs; vacuuming upholstered furniture; and making beds. Ask if straightening up is expected. Also, find out which cleaning products (supplied by the homeowner) to use on fixtures, appliances, and furniture to prevent damage.
Nurturer of nature – If you’re a nature lover, don’t forget about your local parks. Possible positions may include assisting with planned activities and events, maintaining park grounds, and tending ticket booths. Call area parks to find out what jobs they offer and how to apply.
Tips for business success
Follow these tips for your safety and to increase your chances of getting more business and excellent referrals.
• Get your parents’ permission before accepting any job, and make sure they know where you’ll be.
• Dress for the type of job, and wear old clothes if the work could harm them.
• Discuss payment in advance to avoid disputes or hard feelings.
• Do your best. This will help you earn respect from your customers and make you feel good about yourself. It will also likely affect whether you are hired again and can use that person as a reference for future jobs.
• If you make a mistake, don’t ignore it or try to cover it up. Inform your employer, offer your apologies, and ask what can be done to remedy it. Your honesty will likely make your employer overlook the error.
• Be on time. Call right away if you'll be late or can't make it.
At CHRISTUS St. Vincent, we are always committed to providing the best and safest healthcare to you and your family. From routine check-ups or vaccinations to acute illnesses – we are always ready to care for you and your loved ones. Visit us in one of our six conveniently located Primary Care locations.
Adult & Family Care
Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors
465 St. Michael’s Dr. Suite 230 Santa Fe, NM 87505
Arroyo Chamiso Pediatrics
Offering Pediatric Care for newborns through18 years of age
465 St. Michael’s Dr., Suite 200 Santa Fe, NM 87505
Entrada Contenta Health Center
Offering Pediatrics, Family Medicine, and Urgent Care 5501 Herrera Dr. Santa Fe, NM 87507
Family Medicine Center
Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors 2025 Galisteo St. Santa Fe, NM 87505
Pojoaque Primary Care
Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors 5 Petroglyph Circle, Suite A Pojoaque, NM 87506
Center for Healthy Aging
Offering Family Medicine and Geriatric Care for older adults and seniors 1692 Hospital Drive, Bldg. A Santa Fe, NM 87505
Call (505) 913-DOCS (3627) to schedule your primary care appointment today.
CHRISTUS ST. VINCENT PRIMARY CARE