New Mexico Kids! Jan/Feb 2024

Vol. 33 / No. 1

FREE

January /February 2024

New Mexico Kids!

Family Magazine

Kids! Calendar pg 20 Kids' Coloring Page pg 6 School Directory pg 32

The VLA Shares the Wonders of Space Exploration pg 2 Outpost Programs Warm Local Families to Ice Sports pg 16 Breast Milk Bank Helps Nurture Vulnerable Infants pg 38 Katherine Archuleta, 10

The VLA Shares the Wonders of Space Exploration

By AILEEN O’CATHERINE Like huge metal flowers pushing out of the desert floor, the 25-meter (82-foot) white satellite dishes of the Very Large Array (VLA) move across New Mexico’s Plains of San Agustin west of Socorro in configurations that capture some of the longest waves on the electromagnetic spectrum.

Radio astronomers study those large waves to look at exploding black holes, pulsating planets, dying stars and information gleaned from the beginnings of a nascent universe. Astronomer Aleksander Wolszczan used radio astronomy to tune in to the pulsar PSR B12757+12, located 2,300 light-years away, and in 1992, he and astronomer Dale Frail published a famous paper on the first exoplanets ever discovered. Exoplanets orbit stars outside our solar system.

How this work is done and who does it is at the heart of the VLA. Twice a year, the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) invites interested visitors to an open house where they can meet the astronomers, students, data scientists and behind-the-scenes operators who turn the VLA’s data into scientific information. Everyone has the chance to visit the VLA to learn how the many stories that exist beyond Earth are captured and told. Those who can’t attend an open house can visit on their own every day of the year except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

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2 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Some of the VLA satellite dishes in the D formation. Photo by Aileen O'Catherine.

During a recent October open house, a group with timed entry tickets gathered at the visitor center. Our guide was none other than famed astronomer Dale Frail, who took us through the VLA’s everyday workings. He pointed out the satellite dishes, which on that day were pulled together like a tight letter Y. In this D configuration, the total telescope size is 0.64 miles across. The array of satellite dishes is called an interferometer and mimics the view of an optical telescope as big across as the farthest distance between the two furthest antennas. In the A configuration, the satellite dishes span 22.62 miles, in configuration B they span 7.08 miles, and in configuration C, 2.11 miles. The configurations equate to a degree of resolution, with the tight view of the D configuration providing a high surface brightness, but low resolution. The A configuration, on the other hand, provides high resolution but limited brightness. Scientists choose the configurations they will use to observe objects depending on their research interests.

Each satellite dish is a single tool, but when all 27 dishes collect data at the same time, the interferometer becomes an enormous radio astronomy telescope.

“If you looked at M84 in the optical (spectrum), it would be dark,” Frail told his audience as he pointed to an image of Messier object 84 (M84) enlarged as a picture on the wall behind him. Dark red swirls push out into deep black, with the center of the object looking like a huge gaping hole. Frail explained that M84 is an elliptical galaxy found in the densely populated center of the Virgo cluster of galaxies, of which there are more than 1,000.

“Optical astronomers can only see outside the nursery,” Frail said, “but as radio astronomers, we see each of the individual stars as they are blowing up, or a collection of stars being born.” He explained that in radio astronomy, scientists can see past the gas and dust, no matter the weather. With optical telescopes, the weather makes an impact, but radio astronomy operates most days out of the year. With optical astronomy, “all you would see would be a faint green blob,” Frail said. He (continued on Page 8)

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 3

What's in this issue for you!

Stories & Special Features

Regular Features

2: The VLA Shares the Wonders of Space Exploration 10: Celebrating 30 Years of Bringing Dance to New Mexico Youth

6: Kids' Coloring Page 14: Let's Read!

18: Kids' Crossword

12: The ABCs of a Peaceful Bedtime Routine

20: Albuquerque Kids! Calendar

16: Outpost Programs Warm Local Families to Ice Sports

24: Santa Fe Kids! Calendar 36: Young Scientist

29: Secrets of the Magician 32: Directory of Schools & Academic Support Programs 30: Van of Enchantment Takes Learning on the Road 38: Breast Milk Bank Helps Nurture Vulnerable Infants

39: Let's Draw!

Cover Art Story

Katherine Archuleta, 10

Leah, age 11 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!

Publishers

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Calendar Editor

Customer Relations

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Ashley Conner & Dana Benjamin Contributing Writers: Tony Comito, Autumn Gray, DJ Hill, Aileen O’Catherine, Jan Pierce, Tania Soussan Tania Soussan

Francine Hopper

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Advertisers Contact: Dana Benjamin at 505-967-7812 or email kids@newmexico-kids.com

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.

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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.

4 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

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Mckinlee, age 6

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 5

Kids' Coloring Page

6 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 7

The VLA Shares the Wonders of Space Exploration

(continued from Page 2)

urged the audience to look carefully at the black hole in the galaxy’s center. “Spewing out of that black hole are twin jets that you only ‘see’ in radio,” he said. “There is material going into the black hole, but material shooting out.” He pointed to the twin jets near the black hole. “They are relativistic electrons moving at the speed of light. They are going out into interstellar space and affecting all the galaxies around them, like these giant big spoons in a soup.” It was difficult not to get caught up in the excitement of understanding the image, given Frail’s enthusiasm for the subject and his deft ability to explain science. He went on to explain how the action taking place in M84 is hundreds of thousands of light-years away, and what we see is not only the past but also the future of an active galaxy.

Frail then guided us to view a giant satellite dish and explained how radio waves are turned into data with the help of equipment maintained and monitored by VLA staff.

At the operations center, we learned how the interferometer is controlled via more than 2,700 miles of fiber optics that feed into the WIDAR supercomputer. WIDAR (Wideband Interferometric Digital ARchitecture) stirs through 16 quadrillion calculations a second to create data for research scientists from around the world.

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8 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Astronomer Dale Frail explains the workings of a VLA satellite dish. Photo by Aileen O'Catherine.

The VLA offers free open houses in April and in October, with staff- and student-led tours. The visitor center features films, displays and talks held in a small auditorium, as well as a gift shop. There are self-guided outdoor walking tours for those who choose not to visit during open houses. Informative signs take visitors to the base of one of the giant satellite dishes.

The VLA is kid-friendly and a great place for a family outing.

The VLA is open to the public seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Connect with the VLA to stay tuned to upcoming open houses. To find out more, go to public.nrao.edu/visit/ very-large-array.

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 9

Celebrating 30 Years of Bringing Dance to New Mexico Youth

By DJ HILL Liz Salganek was too young to remember when she was first drawn to dance.

Growing up in Santa Fe, she trained in ballet, jazz and modern dance during her formative years, eventually relocating to New York in 1997 to pursue her passion and hone her skills. After completing her education — while gaining valuable experience in the world of dance performance — Salganek returned to New Mexico to consider a second calling in dance education.

Fortuitously, the opportunity of a lifetime was waiting in the wings.

A serendipitous encounter between the late Jacques d’Amboise and Leslie Carpenter, principal of Acequia Madre Elementary School in 1994, set the stage for a dance renaissance of sorts in New Mexico, one which would interconnect dance with schools, teachers and community members to bring confidence, collaboration and core life lessons to kids across the state.

D’Amboise, a noted ballet dancer and choreographer who established the National Dance Institute in New York in 1976, brought his talents to New Mexico and organized a performance with the Acequia Madre students.

Aided by former dancer and philanthropist Val Diker and Founding Artistic Director Catherine Oppenheimer, he wasted no time in soliciting funds from donors to create the nonprofit

NDI New Mexico (National Dance Institute of New Mexico), which would eventually make dance programs available to kids in 32 communities across the state. The results have been astounding, with over 150,000 students served by NDI’s 30th anniversary in 2023.

But lest you think it’s all about dance, NDI strategically uses this tool to engage the whole child in the experience, knowing the long-term benefits are invaluable.

“Dance is a vehicle of the mission, a mode of expression” said Salganek, now artistic director of NDI New Mexico. “There is something so visceral about dance, the process of your body moving through space and time. There is an energy and selfimage shift. Kids who were not confident ‘taking up space’ come out of their shell.”

NDI New Mexico’s in-school program is where most families first learn about the organization. The focus is on communities with the greatest need, where 82% qualify for federal free or reduced cost meal programs. According to its website: “This year we will serve more than 8,000 children, reach 325 public school teachers in 193 schools in 31 communities.”

(continued on next page)

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Celebrating 30 Years of Bringing Dance to New Mexico Youth

(continued from previous page)

NDI New Mexico also provides nutrition curricula and training to teachers who realize the value of adding movement to their classroom. Its instructors and visiting artists walk a fine line between high expectations and meeting each child where they are.

Some students continue on, sampling classes offered at NDI studios at The Hiland Theater in Albuquerque or the Dance Barns in Santa Fe. The organization presents diverse options to find the perfect niche for each child from hip hop to ballet with young children’s and after school classes and adult choices to boot. Dance experience is not a prerequisite, and a sliding scale fee makes classes affordable for everyone.

So how to best commemorate 30 years of programming for countless kids across the state? You can bet performances will be part of the equation. Salganek believes culminating events are a vital part of the NDI experience. Parents, alumni, classroom teachers and community members (such as police and firefighters), clamor to be involved.

“We find when we can involve the community, it allows kids to see adults in a fun and creative light. Kids see it as support,” she said. “We encourage the community to get involved.”

Performances this year will incorporate collaborations with Santa Fe High School alumnus Dana Tai Soon Burgess, director of a preeminent modern dance company in Washington, D.C. Burgess is NDI New Mexico’s first teaching artist in residence.

Additional offerings in the celebratory lineup are “Urban Verbs,” “Moving Stories,” Community Days at the Hiland Theater in Albuquerque, “Sweet Sounds of Motown,” and more. NDI will hit the road for several weeks to take its talents to communities statewide, returning in May for the unveiling of its new show, “Dream Big” — created exclusively for its 30th anniversary — with performances in both Albuquerque and Santa Fe. While these events celebrate the performers, NDI staff and community members, they also serve as a powerful testament to — and acknowledgment of — the transformative power of dance, best illustrated by a former student Salganek remembers to this day. A fourth grader, the student was initially resistant, a class clown, who pushed the boundaries of the classroom.

In need of a course correction, the boy experienced a dramatic shift after several years of community and family partnering through his involvement at NDI and became committed to a career as a performer. NDI became a second home where he trusted that those in this circle knew his value and would never give up on him.

“NDI New Mexico is committed to the next 30 years of being there for generations of New Mexico kids. We want to celebrate their accomplishments, to shine a spotlight on them and the lifelong impact dance can have on their health and well-being,” says Salganek.

NDI’s track record bears witness to just that.

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LAUNCHING New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 11

The ABCs of a Peaceful Bedtime Routine By JAN PIERCE

Parents are experts at multi-tasking. You’re a whiz at putting together tacos while pulling soccer pants out of the dryer. You know how to pack lunches and get the kids out the door with three minutes to spare before the school bus arrives. You don’t flinch when you hear it’s your turn to have two dozen cupcakes ready by two o’clock this afternoon. But when it comes to a smooth and peaceful bedtime routine, you may feel there isn’t any more gas in the tank. You just want them in bed and asleep so you can collapse on the couch for a bit before your own bedtime.

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Children of all ages can make bedtime a bit of a nightmare.

First of all, they’re tired after a long day and not very open to reason. In addition, they easily learn this is a vulnerable time for parents if the routine is not yet well-established because you’re tired, too. Bedtime is an opportunity to push buttons, ask for more and stretch those boundaries all the way to the wall. Some parents come to dread the nightly battles.

But never fear, you can change that. What would the perfect bedtime routine look like in your ideal world? There is no one “right” scenario, but here are some guidelines that may help you get back on track to make bedtime enjoyable for both you and your kiddos. It’s as easy as ABC. A. Aim To reach success, you need a clear, measurable goal. You need to have an accurate picture in your mind of your chosen bedtime routine. Using the word routine implies you’ll go through the same procedures and activities each evening. Your goal at the end of these activities is a contented, cooperative child, relaxed and in bed, ready to drift off to sleep with no drama.

At its best, bedtime is a time for bonding — a time to close out the day together and get ready for a new one. Studies show that children who have enjoyed consistent bedtime routines have better sleep quality all through childhood. Children learn a measure of self-care even though you, the parents, are key to implementation. A bedtime routine is calming and can help to improve stress levels and promote better behavior.

B. Basics What needs to happen before bedtime and what do you want to add as positive interactions with your children before they sleep? It makes sense to begin preparing for bedtime at least an hour earlier when you turn off all devices and move toward quieter activities.

Bedtime routines usually include most of the following: • A snack or feeding • A bath • Brushing teeth and using the bathroom • A quiet activity such as reading a book or singing a song together • Cuddling or rocking • A short talk about the day • A goodnight kiss and lights out You can feel free to tailor the routine to your family favorites as long as you don’t extend the routine beyond 30 to 40 minutes. Some children enjoy playing in the bath for quite a while, and others love to hear three or four stories before sleep. Be sure you’re the one setting the timeline and don’t allow power plays to put off time to sleep.

Address any fears or insecurities by leaving on a nightlight or hall light, keeping the door open, or reminding the children that you’re nearby but this is time to sleep. Offer a comfort item such as a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.

C. Consistency Following the same routine in the same order each night is the key to a successful bedtime routine and is the biggest (continued on Page 18)

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 13

Let's Read!

These book reviews were written by Christine Laffler's 4th Grade Students An Unofficial Guide to the World of Studio Ghibli

Authors: Michael Leader and Jake Cunningham Publisher: Welbeck Children's Ages 7-10 If you love Studio Ghibli then this is the book for you! This book has amazing pictures from movies like My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke, and Spirited Away. This book also includes extras like pictures of food from the movies, how to make costumes for Halloween, and how to draw Totoro! There are so many amazing creatures in this book. The authors know so much about Studio Ghibli.

They host a podcast called Ghibliotheque and seem to know everything about this Japanese film studio’s movies! We think everyone will love this awesome book.

By Layla. C., age 9 and Linnea K., age 9

Remembering

Author: Xelena González Illustrated by Adriana M. Garcia Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers Ages 4-8 What do you do when your pet dies? In this book a family loses their dog named Simon. This book is a heartwarming story of how they honor their passed companion. On Dia de Muertos they set their ofrenda for Simon and make a marigold petal path to guide him home. They put all the memories they had with Simon on a wall full of marigolds and pictures. This book would be helpful if you have lost your own pet or loved one because it also includes how to build your own ofrenda. It doesn't have many words but has many beautiful pictures so young children can read this great book.

By Addison D., age 9

Art and Joy: Best Friends Forever

Written and illustrated by Danielle Krysa Publisher: Prestel Junior Ages: 5-9 This cute book is about two best friends, Art and Joy. They have to overcome the art bully. The art bully makes Art feel like her art is not good and makes her feel insecure. Joy thinks that the art is awesome. Art gets sad and stops making art for a little bit. Then Art discovers some clever ways to get their creative juices flowing… read the book to find out how! The overall message of this book is that no matter what people say, don't let them get in your way. Enjoy your life

14 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

and let your creativity shine!

Review by Syndel S., age 10 and Adonijah H., age 9

Amy Wu and the Ribbon Dance

Author: Kat Zhang Illustrator: Charlene Chuna Publisher: Simon & Schuster books for young readers.

Ages: 4-8 Amy Wu and the Ribbon Dance is a cute story that teaches you that you don't need the perfect things to do something amazing!

This is a story about Amy Wu who loves to move. She learns about the Chinese ribbon dance but doesn’t have the perfect ribbon. Even though the book says it’s for ages four to eight, I enjoyed it and I’m 10, so older kids will enjoy it, too! Will Amy be able to dance without the perfect ribbon? Read this book to find out!

By Samara K., age 10

Just Snow Already!

Written and illustrated by Howard McWilliam Publisher: FlashLight Press Ages: 5-3 years If you like fun illustrations and a good story then you will love Just Snow Already! In this book, a small boy is waiting for it to snow! He is so obsessed with looking out the window and waiting for it to snow that he doesn't see all of the other amazing and hysterical things happening all around him! Every time he runs to the window to look for snow he misses all the funny things that are going on in his neighborhood. This book has great illustrations and every time you look at them you’ll see more details! This book is great for kids who are learning about patience and shows you how to focus on the world around you.

By Kate M., age 10

Enlightened

Written and illustrated by: Sachi Ediriweera Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers Ages: 12+ Enlightened is an inspirational tale about a boy named Prince Siddhartha who longs to see outside of his castle into the town he will soon take care of. When the king's adviser brought him to see the (continued on next page)

Let's Read!

These book reviews were written by Christine Laffler's 4th Grade Students town he found out about old age, pain, suffering, and death.

These were things he had never seen or felt before. Siddhartha strives to understand these feelings. This book gives you a great understanding of pain and enlightenment and how Prince Siddhartha eventually becomes Gautama Buddha. It also helps you learn about your own feelings. The illustrations in this graphic novel are simple but beautiful and the words sound like poetry. This book is amazing and everyone should read it!

By Vita P., age 9

Potatoes for Pirate Pearl

Author: Jennifer Concepcion Illustrated by: Chloe Burgett Publisher: Feeding Minds Press Ages: 4-8 Potatoes For Pirate Pearl is a very amazing book packed with information about growing your own potatoes and full of potato recipes. In this book, Pirate Pearl and her parrot Petunia get super hungry after being out at sea for so long! She gets tired of eating hardtack biscuits every day. Then one day, “Land ho!” They meet Farmer Fay who thankfully shows them how potatoes grow. She also gives them many delicious potato recipes to try, too. Grab a snack because this book makes you hungry!

By Torrin R., age 9

Heart Berry Bling

Author: Jenny Kay Dupuis Illustrated by Eva Campbell Publisher: HighWater Press Ages: 6-8 Heart Berry Bling is a book about a girl named Maggie who is doing her first beading project with her grandma. She wants to make a pair of strawberry earrings but it’s harder than she thinks! This book has amazing drawings. It is also full of important stories from Maggie’s grandma about her Anashinaabe culture. Maggies learns how beading helped her grandma hold on when times were tough. The author of this book is a member of the Nipissing First Nation and she writes about the experiences of women during Canada’s Indian Act. This is an important book with beautiful pictures and words for everyone.

By Rae R., age 9

Lean on Me: A Children’s Picture Book (LyricPop) Song lyrics by Bill Withers Illustrations by Rachel Moss Publisher: Akashic Books Age rating: Baby to 7 The words in this great book are the

lyrics of the song, Lean on Me. The pictures show a story of four friends who overcome hard things with each other by their sides. My favorite part of the book is when the four of them are in a little rowboat. The two girls are sharing an iPod listening to music, each wearing one fushia earbud. One boy is playing the guitar and the boy is using a hand held net to fish. This is a very awesome book and even though the age recommendation is baby to seven, I think it is a good book for ALL ages! You can sing along as you read this fun book about the importance of friendship and helping one another overcome hard things.

By Harper S., age 10

The Cutest Animal Babies: How cute? You decide!

By Welbeck Publishing Publisher: Mortimer Children's Ages 3-5 We highly recommend reading The Cutest Animal Babies because it teaches you facts and it is super cute! The pictures are adorable and the facts are fun. One fact in the book is, “The largest litter ever recorded was 24 puppies. That’s a lot of cuddles!” Also, there is a “Cute-o-meter” and a lot of cute animal babies like bears, sea turtles, penguins, tigers, and more for you to rate based on their cuteness factor! This book is great for ages 3+. If you love baby animals like us, you should definitely read this book!

Reviewed by: Rebecca W, age 9, Cayetano V., age 9, and Josh G., age 9

The Bravest Warrior in Nefaria

Author: Adi Alsaid Ages 8-12 Have you ever felt invisible? Well then I have the book for you! Meet Bobert Bougainvillea, a boy who felt invisible. No one seemed to notice him in the kingdom of Neferia. Until one day, Bobert followed his friends to a seemingly haunted gumball machine and that was the start of his adventure!

Bobert has to overcome his feelings of being invisible and be courageous and brave to overcome the evil wizard Matt. This chapter book is great for people who like medieval times and silly shenanigans. I suggest the next time you want something fun to read, you should read the Bravest Warrior in Nefaria.

By Archer D., age 9

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 15

Outpost Programs Warm Local Families to Ice Sports

By AUTUMN GRAY Albuquerque’s high desert environment isn’t widely known for ice sports. However, the Outpost Ice Arena has over the last few years developed a secret society of sorts around the full spectrum of ice sports, largely due to an influx of leaders from more wintery climates. The community is secret only because so few people know about this close-knit, family-like group that gives a warm welcome to anyone of any age and ability interested in learning an ice sport.

“One of the nice things for parents is, the weather (at the Outpost) is always the same,” said owner Stan E. Hubbard.

“You don’t get caught in the wind. It’s not hot. It’s not cold.

It’s just very comfortable, and it becomes a big social place for families.”

The former Minnesotan took ownership of the Outpost at 9530 Tramway Blvd. NE in 2018, giving it a multi-milliondollar renovation overhaul and bringing to the arena a North American Hockey League expansion team, the New Mexico Ice Wolves. In addition to hosting games, the Outpost offers programs in figure skating, speed skating, hockey, and even curling. Northern transplants and military families accustomed to locales that are more familiar with ice sports find the rink pretty quicky, but attracting locals still requires “an outreach,” Hubbard said.

To elevate Outpost programming and increase interest in ice sports generally, Hubbard hired former Minnesota professional hockey player Ben Danford to boost hockey offerings several years ago. This spring, former Chicagoan and professional figure skater Tisha Dekeno took the lead on skating programs.

“There’s more to skating than what you see during the Olympics and what’s televised on Nationals,” said Dekeno, who oversees the Learn to Skate classes, which accept all ages.

“My hope for the Outpost is to build a strong basics program that will teach people the fundamentals of ice sports to enable them to be great skaters in the capacity they can be, no matter the ice sport,” Dekeno said.

That includes establishing solid skating skills for children like 10-year-old Tyler Patterson who wanted to play hockey.

Patterson started learning to skate in 2022 and quickly progressed to playing on a travel hockey team for the best in his age group, learning mature life skills along the way.

“He’s learning the value of hard work, having a good attitude even when things aren’t going your way, being punctual, and showing up for somebody else - finding out that life is not all about you,” said his father, Chris Patterson, who also was new to the game when his son started playing.

To give newbies further insight into the sport in Albuquerque, Outpost hockey director Ben Danford spoke at length with New Mexico Kids!:

16 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Q: Why should a child or parent consider trying hockey over more locally familiar sports like football, baseball, or basketball?

Hockey is different than most team sports in that it’s such a face-paced Tyler Patterson, 10, learned to play hockey at the Outpost hopes to play in college or in the National Hockey game and all five players and League. Photo by Chris Patterson. on the ice are always involved with the play. A youth hockey team is made up of 15 skaters and one goalie (give or take), and a regular shift lasts 45 seconds to 1 minute due to the pace and intensity of the competition. This allows players to be engaged and involved in a team setting more than any other sport because there is constant movement of all players. You are rarely resting or sitting on the bench longer than you need before you’re right back out for your next shift. That’s a big reason why I loved it and why I believe kids are getting more interested in hockey, even in non-traditional hockey markets like New Mexico. The difficult part is getting people that didn’t grow up around the game to come in and try it.

Q: What skills do children gain from playing hockey?

The bonds that are formed through being on a hockey team can really develop kids' leadership ability and heighten their sense of accountability because of how connected all players need to be on the ice when playing the game. As kids grow up, the need to problem-solve as a group in a fast and fluid environment becomes very important to have individual and team success. Being able to think critically as a group in a fast environment while handling the highs and lows of the game can have a positive impact on a child’s ability to persevere through tough circumstances. Having been around hockey for 30 years, I have found that one of the greatest parts of the game is the sense of family you get to when you are a part of a hockey community.

Q: How did you end up in Albuquerque?

I was playing professionally in the East Coast Hockey League for the Toledo Walleye, which is the minor league affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings. I was planning on that being my last year playing competitively, and this opportunity to work as the Outpost hockey director was a great way to stay involved and give back to the game that had been so good to me. Hockey doesn’t immediately come to most people’s minds in this region, but there’s a passionate hockey group of people here.

It’s a sneaky little hockey town, and our goal is to try to reach the Greater Albuquerque area.

Q: Is hockey a dangerous sport?

That hockey is brutal and violent is an unfair characterization.

People associate it with National Hockey League fighting, but (continued on next page)

Outpost Programs Warm Local Families to Ice Sports (continued from previous page)

at the youth level, there’s been a really big change in the game in terms of what’s allowed physically. The rules around body contact have changed at every level in a push to make it safer.

• The Outpost will be hosting a Try Hockey for Free event from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. April 20. Registration will be available soon on the Outpost website, https://www.outposticearena.com/.

• The NHL's Arizona Coyotes Little Howler program will be operating a Learn to Play Hockey program at the Outpost Ice Arena on Tuesday and Thursday evenings May 14-30. Little Howlers Hockey is an on-ice youth hockey program hosted in cooperation with the Arizona Coyotes Hockey Patterson, photo by Chris Development Program, the National Tyler Patterson.

Hockey League, USA Hockey, and local hockey rinks. The program consists of six (6) onehour sessions designed to provide ages 5-11 a risk-free introduction to the sport of hockey, complete with an extensive set of equipment for $249. Registration coming soon at https://youth.arizonacoyotes.com/littlehowlers.

• The Outpost also offers sled hockey, a sport that integrates with any player’s mobility limitations. Players of all ages can compete by using sleds to travel across the ice. Shortened hockey sticks with a metal pick allow the player to push the sled. For more information on this program, visit https://www.outposticearena.com/hockey/ sled-hockey/ or call 907-229-3676.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque

Q: What’s the best way for local children to learn to play?

Hockey has been a part of Albuquerque for a long time. When the Outpost Ice Arenas transitioned under new ownership of Stan and Jennifer Hubbard, we wanted to make sure we developed a positive and safe environment for kids to try all ice sports. Our goal with the Learn to Play Hockey program, which just started in 2021, is to introduce the game at an affordable price and develop the core skills in a fun environment. The program is offered in the summer and includes six hours of ice, skill instruction, and a youth starter equipment kit. Following Learn to Play we offer many other beginner hockey skills clinics that allow children to improve before the start of the season in September. The Outpost Ice Arena will offer its Learn to Play Program in June. For more information: https://www. outposticearena.com/learn-to-play-hockey/ Q: What are other easy ways to get into hockey?

art. history. people.

Make Albuquerque Museum your Classroom!

Museum School, Winter 2024 Art classes for children ages 3 to 14 Weekday, Afterschool and Weekend classes Classes begin January 10 Preschool Adventures in Art (ages 3-6 and their grown up) Thursdays

Albuquerque

Youth Studio (ages 6 – 14) Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays For more information and to register cabq.gov/museum-school Albuquerque Museum

2000 Mountain Road NW (in Old Town) 505-243-7255 • albuquerquemuseum.org

Now accepting applications for 2024-2025 1801 Central Avenue NW - 505.243.6659 manzanodayschool.org

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 17

Kids' Crossword

Let's Party!

A page for kids' party places, entertainers, services and supplies! "Let's Party!" ads cost $150 plus tax for each 2" x 2" space. To place your ad in our next issue, ad and payment are due by February 12.

For more information call 505-967-7812.

The ABCs of Bedtime (continued from Page 12)

challenge in our heavily scheduled lives. Ideally, bedtime routines are done every night of the week. And when the routine is broken by vacations, illness or any other break in the schedule, you’ll need to reinstate the routine and be especially mindful of sticking to the guidelines.

It’s best for both parents to take part in the bedtime routine, but when that’s not possible, try to follow the same routine no matter who is doing it. And for those children who always want one more drink and one more story, cut through the efforts to sabotage your plan by allowing them to make choices. “Which pajamas do you want to wear, the red or the blue?” or “Which story shall we read tonight, the fairy tale or the book about spiders?”

You will need to adapt your bedtime routines and times as your children get older. They’ll take more responsibility for each step and go to bed a bit later in the evening. But even adults benefit from bedtime routines, so keep them in place for your children to ensure peaceful, no-hassle bedtimes.

Bedtime should be enjoyable for both parent and child. It’s a time to share your love and prepare for a healthy night of sleep. It takes time, effort and persistence to create a healthy bedtime routine, but the benefits are well worth it.

Jan Pierce, M.Ed. is a retired teacher and reading specialist who specializes in education, family life and parenting articles. Find her at www.janpierce.net.

18 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Crossword Answers on Page 39

Albuquerque

A FREE Public Charter School for Grades K - 8 Featuring Montessori Curriculum, Suzuki Strings, Orchestra, and Visual Art

We are recognized as a Spotlight School by the NMPED for being in the Top 15% of schools in New Mexico.

2024-2025 Applications for Kindergarten - 8th Grade Available Online Beginning January 5th Join us for our Annual Open Houses on February 3rd, 2024 at our two locations to meet our staff & tour our beautiful campuses!

The Elementary & Middle School Main Campus Open House will be February 3rd, 2024 from 10am - 12pm located at 1730 Montano Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107 The Pre - K & Kindergarten Carmel Campus Open House will be February 3rd, 2024 from 12:30pm -1:30pm located at 5801 Carmel Ave. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

Admission details and FAQs on our website at www.TMESNM.com

Albuquerque

Lottery Opens December 1 - February 17 Apply Now Grades K-12th

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 19

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar

By FRANCINE HOPPER

Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but times, places & dates 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 our calendar form at newmexico-kids.com or send date, time, place, cost, description of activity, sponsoring organization and contact phone to kids@newmexico-kids.com.

The deadline is February 12 for listings in the Mar/Apr calendar. Listings are not guaranteed due to space limits. Phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.

DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS (DEC 20-31)

ARTS AND CRAFTS Dec 20, Stories & Music in the Sky, Creating Usable Art: Making Wreaths, 9:30-10:30am & 11amnoon. Stories and music followed by creating a wreath to take; for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

Balloon Museum, 9401 Balloon Museum NE, 768-6097, cabq. gov/artsculture/balloonmuseum/ events/stories-music-in-the-skydec-20-2023.

CULTURAL CENTERS AND MUSEUMS Dec 21-31, Pueblo Gingerbread Experience, 9am-4pm. View the Pueblo Gingerbread House Contest entries. Free for members/included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 8437270, indianpueblo.org/events.

Dec 22, 29, Crafternoon, 4-6pm. X Studio members and teens ages 1319 can join for rotating crafts, ASMR and good vibes. Free, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora. us/events.

Dec 23, IPCC’s Family Storytime: Christmas, 1-2pm. Themes align with Pueblo core values including the importance of family, respect, storytelling and harmony with nature. Free for children and an adult family member, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org/event/ ipccs-family-story-time-christmas.

Dec 31, New Year’s Eve Before Dark, 10am-2pm. Create art, listen to music from Entourage Jazz and enjoy the “O’Keeffe and Moore” exhibition. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov/artsculture/albuquerquemuseum/events/new-years-evebefore-dark-1.

Dec 31, Noon Year’s Eve For Families, noon. Balloons, experiments, music, a raffle and a special guest to help count down to the new year. Reservations required, no walk-ins. Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, purchase at explora.us/events.

LIBRARIES Dec 30, Out of This World Noon Year’s Eve Party, 11am-1pm.

Families are invited to the library for an outer space-themed activity and a countdown at noon. Free, Esther Bone Library, 950 Pinetree SE, RR, 891-5012, riorancholibraries.org.

SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS Dec 20, 21 Thanksgiving Break Day Camps, “Flying High in the Sky” and “Rockets! Rockets Rockets!,” 8:30am-3:30pm. Children should bring two snacks, a lunch and a refillable water bottle. Free before- and after-care starting at 7:30am and ending at 5:30pm. $70/$75 non-members, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

Dec 20-22, Explora School’s Out Camp, 9am-4pm. For grades K-5, and 5-8. See website for full schedule, details and to register. $85/$95 non-member single day, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/schools-outcamps.

Dec 22, 26-29, “Science is Everywhere” Winter Break Day Camps, 8:30am-3:30pm. Single-day camps are divided into multi-age collaborative experiences. Topics include “Engineer It!,” “All the Slime!,” “Games! Strategy! Math,” “Paper Palooza” and “Solar System Exploration.” Children should bring two snacks, a lunch and a refillable water bottle. Free before- and aftercare starting at 7:30am and ending at 5:30pm. $70/$75 non-members, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

Dec 26-29, Explora Pre-K, K-5th, 5th-8th grade Winter Break Camps.

See website for full schedule, details and to register. Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora. us/winter-camps.

Dec 27-29, Winter Wonderland Kids Camp, 9:30am-12:30pm. A fun-filled, Pinterest-inspired camp.

Attendees will make different crafts and bring home creations, techniques and memories; deposit required to reserve a spot. Fees include tools, supplies, a snack and drink. $135 per child for 3-days/$50 per day (10% off for siblings), Pinspiration Albuquerque, 6271 Riverside Plaza Ln Suite D1, 2000942, allevents.in/albuquerque/ winter-wonderland-kidscamp/200025892132238.

STAGE Dec 21-24, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!,” 7:30pm, Thu, Fri, Sat; 2pm, Sat; 1pm, Sun. This Christmas comedy is adapted from the bestselling “Young Adult'' book about a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant. $20/$25, ABQ Little Theatre, 224 San Pasquale SW, 242-4750, albuquerquelittletheatre.org.

Dec 22, 23, “The Nutcracker,” by The Ballet Repertory Theatre, 2 & 7pm, Fri & Sat; 2pm, Sun; 1pm, Sat (with Nutcracker Tea to follow).

This holiday tradition is full of mischievous mice, dancing treats and a sprinkle of snowflakes. $22$30, KiMo Theatre, 423 Central NW, 768-3522, cabq.gov/artsculture/ kimo/events/upcoming-events.

Dec 31, Opera Southwest: New Year’s with the Opera!, 2:30pm. A fun variety show featuring Opera SW recent performers, the ABQ Youth Symphony and the Opera SW Chamber Orchestra. $50/$60/$70, ABQ Journal Theatre, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org.

JUST FOR TEENS Dec 26, Teen VR Gaming, 4-6pm.

Play on the library’s virtual reality

20 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

gaming computers; registration required; ages 13-18. Free, International District Library, 7601 Central NE, 768-4970, abqlibrary.org.

ALSO OF INTEREST Dec 21-23 & 26-30, River of Lights.

View more than 700 light displays, animated and 3D sculptures, plus millions of twinkling lights while strolling on a one-way path. $7-$14 Mon-Thu/$9-$17 Fri-Sun/Free ages 2 and under, ABQ BioPark, 2601 Central NW, 715-1002, riveroflights.org.

Dec 21-24, 28-31, Winter Wonderland NM 2023, 6-10pm. An interactive walking tour with local vendors, live actors and photos with princesses and Santa. $49$90, valid for one vehicle, Indian Village and Villa Hispana, Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, 273-1871, winterwonderlandnm.com.

Dec 22, 11th Annual Night of Carols, 5:30-7:30pm. Rock 101 @ Covenant, Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria NE, 226-0632, rock101nm.com.

Dec 22-24, Funbox Bounce Park, 9:30am-5pm. 25,000 square feet of play zones in one contiguous inflatable park with a huge maze. $14, Coronado Center Parking Lot, 6600 Menaul NE, 908-8210, funbox. com/albuquerque.

Dec 24, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” 10am entry, 11:30am movie start. Show up in pajamas for 10% off. $10 movie/$21 brunch buffet, Historic Lobo Theater, 3014 Central NE, eventbrite.com.

Dec 24, Luminaria Tour, 5:30, 5:50, 5:10, 6:45, 7:05pm. Enjoy this 45-minute tour through Old Town and the Country Club area to view the luminarias from the comfort of an ABQ Ride bus; see parking directions on website. $1.50, ABQ Convention Center, 401 2nd NW, luminariatour.com.

JANUARY

ARTS & CRAFTS Jan 10, Duct Tape Wallets, 4-5:30pm. Learn how to make a wallet that sticks with you; ages 9-17. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 11, Binary Code Necklace, 3:30-5pm. Learn about the binary code that runs computers and make a necklace with your name in binary code. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE, 764-1742, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 20, Map Ring, 3-4pm. Make rings out of NM roadmaps and wear a favorite city on your finger with pride; all materials provided while supplies last; ages 9-13. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8081 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary.org.

CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS Jan 1-7, Pueblo Gingerbread Experience, 9am-4pm. View the Pueblo Gingerbread House Contest entries. Free for members/included

with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org/events.

Jan 7, Member Special: Explora’s Go Big Bash!, 8:30-10:30am. A morning of festivities for members as a thank you for making Explora possible. Free, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

Jan 13, Sensory Friendly Time, 9-10am. A low-sensory hour with special adaptations for quieter visits including limited attendance, noise & light reduction and calming spaces for breaks. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1 Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

Jan 18, 3rd Thursday: News for the People, 5-8:30pm. Live music and performances, hands-on art activities for kids and adults, gallery exhibits open for viewing, food & drink. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov/ artsculture/albuquerque-museum/ events/third-thursday-news-forthe-people.

DANCE Jan 6-31, Free Dance Class with Dance Theatre Southwest. Take advantage of a free class in any type of dance style a student or family is interested in. If a family or student signs up for classes, they will receive 50% off of February’s tuition. Classes range from Discovering Dance through advanced classical ballet & pointe, two levels of pas de deux (partnering), jazz, contemporary modern, and community hip hop for all ages and families to take together. Boys under 18 are always 50% off, Gift certificates are available. Free, Dance Theatre Southwest, 3805 Academy Parkway South, 296-9465, dtsw.com.

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS Jan 20-21, NM LEGO Brick Convention, 10am-1pm or 2-5pm.

A hands-on, entertainment-packed family event for all ages, skills and interests. $18 day-of/$15 advance/ free ages 2 and under, Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, brickconvention. com/newmexico.

LIBRARY EVENTS Jan 10, STEM Workshops, “Lego Labyrinth,” 4-5pm. Create and solve Lego mazes, build a labyrinth and test it by rolling a marble through it and see if a friend can solve it. For ages 6-10; registration is required, all materials provided. Free, Los Griegos Library, 1000 Griegos NW, 761-4020, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 13, Read to the Dogs, 1-2pm.

Children are invited to join for an afternoon of reading in a relaxed atmosphere to friendly, licensed therapy dogs that love to hear kids read stories. Free, East Mountain Library, 487 NM 33, Tijeras, 281-8508, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 13, Winter Bingo for Kids, 11am-noon. Play winter-themed bingo and win prizes; ages 6-10, (continued on next page)

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar registration required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 16, Explora We Tech Animated Game Design, 4-5pm. Use code and ingenuity to create a fun, interactive, choose-your-own adventure game. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5141, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 27, Disney’s “Frozen,” 1-3pm.

Watch the movie and enjoy snacks.

Free, San Pedro Library, 5600 Trumbull SE, 256-2067, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 28, Create to the Music, 1pm.

Children can create a piece of art inspired by the music they hear from a performing artist; ages 3-10 and families. Free, Placitas Community Library. 453 HWY 165, 867-3355.

MUSIC Jan 6, Guitar NM: Joy Bradley, 3-4pm. Joy has made plays classical guitar. Free, Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache NE, 291-6264, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 11, Concerts @ the Library: Bob Smith, 2-3pm. Bob Smith has been performing classic folk and modern music since the late ‘60s. He plays both the six-string and 12-string acoustic guitar. Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 836-0684, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 19, Middle School Music Festival, 6-10pm. Space is limited, sign up in advance. $12, Paradise Hills Community Center, 5901 Paradise NW, 314-0245, bernco. gov/events.aspx.

Jan 20, Concerts @ the Library: Annie Benjamin, 4-5pm. Annie is a flutist and vocalist who has performed everything from country to classical, rock and roll and oldtimey gospel. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE 291-6295, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 20, Concerts @ the Library: David Schepps, 1:30-2:30pm.

David is a retired UNM cello faculty member and member of the NM Philharmonic who performed at NY’s Lincoln Center Library and Washington DC’s Phillips Collection among others. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE, 764-1742, abqlibrary.org.

SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS Jan 2-5, NM Museum of Natural History and Science Winter Camp, 9am-4pm. Ages five to 10 can explore topics like dinosaurs, astronomy and volcanoes. See website for more info, full schedule and to register. $72/$80 nonmembers, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 412-3758, nmnaturalhistory.org.

Jan 2-5 & 8-9, Explora Winter Break Camp, 9am-4pm. Grades PreK-8th can join in investigation, discovery and hands-on activities related to science, technology, engineering and math (STEAM); financial assistance available.

See website for full schedule and details. $85/$95 non-members, full-day/$45/$55 non-members,

half-day, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/wintercamps.

Jan 3-5, Winter Wonderland Kids Camp, 9:30am-12:30pm. A fun-filled, Pinterest-inspired camp.

Attendees will make different crafts and bring home creations, techniques and memories; deposit required to reserve a spot. Fees include tools, supplies, a snack and drink. $135 per child for 3-days/$50 per day (10% off for siblings), Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, winterwonderlandnm.com.

Jan 15, K-5th & 5th-8th grade Explora School’s Out Camp, 9am-4pm. Full-day multi-age collaborative experiences with a variety of camp programs that provide STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) engagement and enrichment while school is out. See website for full details. $85/$95 non-member, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/schools-outcamps.

Jan 15, Science is Everywhere Martin Luther King Jr Day Camp: Chemistry Matters, 7:30am5:30pm. Students in grades K-6th can mix up vibrant color-changing concoctions, turn food into solid plastic and prepare toothpaste fit for an elephant; free before and after care (7:30-8:30am & 3:30-5:30pm). $70/$75 nonmembers single-day, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

SCIENCE & NATURE Jan 6, Bosque Wild Guided Hike, 8-11am. Join the 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/bosque-wildguided-hike-1.

Jan 14, LEAP into Science: A Balancing Act, 1-3pm. People balance all the time without realizing it, like when they stand, walk and run. This workshop invites children and families to explore and manipulate the placement of weight in objects, as well as in their own bodies. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 888-8100, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 20, 20th Sandia Snowshoe Classic, 11am-3pm. There will be prizes, food, drink and festivities; limited to 175 participants. Free, Sandia Crest House, 701 Sandia Crest, abqtodo.com/event/sandiasnowshoe-classic.

STAGE Jan 6, Auditions for “The Little Mermaid'' Ballet, 11am. Open auditions for the Ballet Repertory Theatre production for ages 10+, intermediate to advanced dancers and professionals; performances March 23 & 24. Free, Ballet Repertory Theatre, 6913 Natalie NE, 888-1054, brtnm.com.

STORYTELLING Jan 10, “Animal Tales” with the BioPark, 10:15-11:15am. Kids can enjoy a reading of an animal related book. The BioPark will bring animals for the kids to meet. Free, South Valley Library, 3904 Isleta SW, 877-5170, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 16, Early Childhood Bilingual Storytime, 10-11am. Stories come to life through art and music.

January's readings are from “Little Roja Riding Hood” and “Maria Had a Little Llama/Maria Tenia Una Llama Pequena.” For ages 3-5 and caregivers, please register online or by phone. Free, National Hispanic Cultural Center Library, History & Literary Arts Building, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm/events.

Jan 20, “Animal Tales” with the BioPark, 10:15-11:15am. Kids can enjoy a reading of an animal related book. The BioPark will bring animals for the kids to meet. Free, Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache NE, 291-6264, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 20, Storytelling Under the Cottonwood, 10:30am-noon. Hear wisdom tales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

JUST FOR TEENS Jan 3, Teen Creative Writing Club, 3:30-4:30pm. Share work, find a group to push you past a writer’s block, find tips and tricks to hone skills. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 8915013, riorancholibraries.org.

Jan 16, 23, WeTech Digital with Explora, 4-5 pm. Teens use code and ingenuity to create fun, interactive experiences with online game design using Twinery. org; ages 13-18, registration encouraged, limited to 20. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5136 abqlibrary.org.

Jan 20, ThunderbirdHacks, 9am-6pm. Join for an all-day coding event where ABQ teens collaborate to build the best AI program. Prizes, swag, meals and mentors to help. Come with a team of friends or make new friends. A start-up guide, mentorship, and a laptop if needed will be provided.

Open registration: e-mail xstudio@ explora.us. Explora, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora. us/winter-camps, explora.us/ events/.

Jan 31, Young Adult Book Club, 3:30-4:30pm. Talk to people about the things you read and have snacks. Crafts and other activities will be related to the book. Call for January’s title. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS Jan 12, Science on Tap: Decrypting the Future: The ABCs of The Blockchain, Crypto and NFT Space, 5:30pm doors, 6pm start. Grab a beer from a local brewery and dive into the basics with Dr. Reilly White, Associate Dean and Associate

Professor of Finance at UNM; ages 21+. $10 includes a beer ticket, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

Jan 13, Kids Night Out at SAGA Gymnastics, 4:30-8pm. Ages 5-17 can enjoy pizza, games and gymnastics while caregivers enjoy time to themselves. $35 per child, SAGA Gymnastics, 3400 Candelaria NE, 884-6949, sagagymnatics.com.

Jan 19, Explora Adult Night: “A 20th Celebration with Complex Contraptions!,” 6-9pm. In order to celebrate Explora’s 20th anniversary, join for a night about making things complicated.

Explore the science behind kinetic movement, energy transference and all things Rube Goldberg; 18+ only. $11, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/ programs/adult-night.

Jan 23, Crafts Night for Adults, 5:30-7pm. Join for a creative art project using beans; registration required, ages 18+. Free, Taylor Ranch Library, 5700 Bogart NW, 897-8816, abqlibrary.org.

Jan 28, Queer & Trans Family Playdate and Parent Social, 10am-12:30pm. HEAL Plus NM hosts this opportunity for families to socialize with gymnastic activities for kids, snacks and drinks.

Space limited, registration required.

SAGA Gymnastics, 3400 Candelaria NE, sagagymnastics.com.

FOR TEACHERS Jan 20, Intro to Micro:bits Teacher Workshop, Rolling, Rolling EC Teacher Workshop, 10am-noon. Learn how to use simple, common materials with micro:bit microcontrollers in creative ways. No previous experience required. Participants can receive a classroom visit on micro:bit activities for their students. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.

Jan 25, Easy Breezy EC Teacher Workshop, 2-4pm. A virtual workshop for early childhood educators, librarians and outof-school time providers (2 CEU hours). “Catch” air to see that it takes up space, use air to do work and learn about the power of air pressure. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 6006072, explora.us/events.

ALSO OF INTEREST Jan 12-13, Toughest Monster Truck Tour, 7:30pm. See the return of the Dirt Crew and the reigning Monster Truck Champion Tailgator, plus one never seen before in NM. $36-$81, Rio Rancho Events Center, 3001 Civic Center Cir NE, Rio Rancho, 8917300, rioranchoeventscenter.com.

Jan 21, ABQ Comic Con. Speakers, comic artists, writers, comedy.

See website for full list of guests and schedule. $20-$65, ABQ Convention Center, 401 2nd NW, albuquerquecomiccon.com. (continued on next page)

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 21

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar FEBRUARY

ARTS & CRAFTS Feb 9, Mini Art Canvas, 3:30-5pm.

Paint dream scenery on a mini canvas. if you need help, step-bystep instruction available; ages 9+.

Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 836-0684, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 10, Valentine’s Day Cards, 10:30am-noon. Ages 3-12 and their families can make Valentine’s Day cards. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5141, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 12, Love Monster Box, 4-5pm. Bring a “monster” to life with crafting and a little love; all materials provided while supplies last; ages 7+. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8801 Central NW, 7684320, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 14, Valentine’s Day Cards, 3:30-5pm. Drop by after work or school to make last-minute Valentine’s Day cards for a loved one or friend; all ages. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS Feb 10, Second Saturday: Open House at San Ysidro, 1-4pm. Learn about the museum’s history, tours, workshops, classes and festivals.

Free, Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Rd, Corrales, 898-3915, cabq.gov/artsculture/albuquerquemuseum/events/second-saturdayopen-house.

Feb 13, Arte para Chiquitos, 10-10:45am. Celebrate Día de San Valentín during a program for ages 2-4 and their caregivers.

The session cultivates creativity and self-expression through the exploration of Hispanic/Latine arts and culture; register online or call.

Free, Domenici Education Building at National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm/events.

Feb 15, Third Thursday: “Coast to Coast,” 4-8:30pm. See this traveling exhibit of Canadian art and enjoy live music. Free, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov.

DANCE Feb 3, MOMIX: “Alice,”7:30pm.

An all-new production inspired by “Alice in Wonderland.”

Dancers play on the imagination and absurdity of the story with costumes, stage effects and a fusion of dance, lighting, music and multimedia. $25-$75, Popejoy Hall, UNM, 203 Cornell NE, 925-5858, popejoypresents.com/events/ detail/momix-alice.

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS Feb 1-3, Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival, 10am-5pm, Fri; 10am4pm, Sat. Find a wide variety of sewing, quilting, needle-art and craft supply exhibits, plus “Make ‘n’ Takes,” demos and door prizes; coupon available on website. $12 for 3 days, Manuel Lujan Jr. Halls, Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, quiltcraftsew.com/albuquerque. html.

Feb 16, Family Film: “Selena,” 7-9pm. After the Fiesta del Baile, enjoy this film for ages 10+ that

celebrates the life of Tejana singer Selena-Quintanilla-Pérez; visit website or call to register. Free, ABQ Journal Theatre, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm/events.

Feb 16, Noche de Familia: Fiesta del Baile, 5-7pm. Enjoy Valentine’sand music-inspired art activities, snacks and learning new dance moves; visit website or call to register. Free, Domenici Education Building, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm/events.

LIBRARY EVENTS Feb 4, Create to the Music, 1pm.

Children can create a piece of art inspired by the music they hear by a performing artist; ages 3-10 and families. Free, Placitas Community Library. 453 HWY 165, 867-3355.

Feb 10, Lunar New Year Crafts for Kids, 11am-noon. Make crafts, have treats and welcome in the Year of the Dragon; ages 6+, registration required. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 10, Read to the Dogs, 1-2pm.

Children are invited to join for an afternoon of reading in a relaxed atmosphere to friendly, licensed therapy dogs that love to hear kids read stories. Free, East Mountain Library, 487 NM 33, Tijeras, 2818508, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 14, Anti-Valentines Day Zombie Plushie, 4-5:30pm. No couples allowed at this “AntiValentine’s Day” party with music and snacks; create a zombie plushie; ages 9-17. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 24, Get Ready For the Solar Eclipse, 10:30am-noon. Join the ABQ Astronomical Society to prepare for the April 8 eclipse.

Weather allowing, use the telescope and hear about sunspots and solar flares. Learn how to build simple devices to safely view any solar eclipse event. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org.

MUSIC Feb 8, Concerts @ the Library: The Michael Anthony Trio, noon-1pm.

Michael was a guitarist who played on records and was in demand by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Barbara Streisand; he has credits on The Brady Bunch, The Flintstones and Happy days. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 888-8100, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 11, Concerts @ the Library: Sean Gaskell, 2-3pm. Sean presents the West African kora, a 21-stringed harp that he learned how to play over four visits to the African continent. Hear songs and learn how the instrument is built. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 24, Simple Truth, noon-1pm.

Simple Truth is a husband and wife duo that play jazz, blues, pop and gospel music. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5141, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 27, Concert @ the Library,

22 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Tracey Whitney, 6-7pm. Tracy toured with Ray Charles as one of his Raelettes; she performs her own blend of sophisticated jazz, classic soul and blues. Free, International District Library, 7601 Central NE, 768-4970, abqlibrary.org.

OPEN HOUSES Feb 2, ABQ Girl Choir Open House, 5-6:30pm. Girls grade 2-12 can come learn about the ABQ Girls Choir. Free, First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust NE, firstpresabq.org.

SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS Feb 16 & 19, Explora School’s Out Camp, 9am-4pm. Full-day multiage collaborative experiences with a variety of camp programs that provide STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) engagement and enrichment while school is out. See website for full details. $85/$95 non-member, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/schools-outcamps.

Feb 19, Mini Break Camp, ABQ JCC. See website for details and schedule, ABQ Jewish Community Center, 5520 Wyoming NE, 332-0565, jccabq.org.

Feb 19, Science is Everywhere Presidents Day Camp: Nuclear Pop, 7:30am-5:30pm. Students grades K-6th can make comic books and explore characters like Godzilla, design Kaiju monsters out of clay, create board games and play them; free before and after care (7:308:30am & 3:30-5:30pm). $70/$75 non-members single-day, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

SCIENCE & NATURE Feb 3, Bosque Wild Guided Hike, 8-11am. Join the 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/bosque-wildguided-hike-1.

Feb 10, Discover STEAM Day 2024, 10am-3pm. Families can explore STEAM through experimentation and hands-on activities directed by local engineers, physicists and technicians. Included with admission/free for members, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

Feb 11, LEAP into Science: Can You Hear Me Now?, 1-3pm.

Children and families can have fun listening to and exploring sound and vibration. Kids will make noise in the library with the purpose of learning. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 8888100, abqlibrary.org.

STORYTELLING Feb 1, Groundhog Day Adventures, 10:30-11:15am. A special Preschool Storytime: Get ready for Groundhog Day and learn about shadows with stories, activities and crafts. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 3, “Animal Tales” with the

ABQ BioPark, 10:30-1:30am. Kids can enjoy a reading of an animal related book. The BioPark will bring animals for the kids to meet. Free, Taylor Ranch Library, 5700 Bogart NW, 897-8816, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 15, Lunar New Year Storytime, 10:30-11:15am. A special Preschool Storytime: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with stories, activities and crafts - followed by a dragon parade. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 16, “Animal Tales” with the ABQ BioPark, 1-2pm. Kids can enjoy a reading of an animal related book. The BioPark will bring animals for the kids to meet. Free, San Pedro Library, 5600 Trumbull SE, 256-2067, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 17, Storytelling Under the Cottonwood, 10:30am-noon. Hear wisdom tales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

Feb 20, Early Childhood Bilingual Storytime, 10-11am. Stories come to life through art and music, February's readings are from “Finding the Music” and “Drum Dream Girl.” For ages 3-5 and caregivers, please register online or by phone. Free, National Hispanic Cultural Center Library, History & Literary Arts Building, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm/events.

JUST FOR TEENS Feb 6, 13, 20, 27, FlexFactor with Explora!, 4-5pm. Teens can turn their ideas into real products by creating and testing prototypes.

Explore the ins and outs of developing a business model and use the engineering process to perfect the product. Ages 13-18 should be prepared to commit to all six lessons in the series to finish their projects. Free, Main Library, 501 Copper NW, 768-5141, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 7, Teen Creative Writing Club, 3:30-4:30pm. Share work, find a group to push you past a writer’s block, find tips and tricks to hone skills. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

Feb 7, Teen Creative Writing Club, 3:30-4:30pm. Share work, find a group to push you past a writer’s block, find tips and tricks to hone skills.Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

Feb 10, Manga Swap, 3-5pm. Join teen readers of Manga and graphic novels to exchange copies, hear about the newest published work and meet like-minded friends. Free, Los Griegos, 1000 Griegos NW, 7614020, abqlibrary.org.

Feb 28, Young Adult Book Club, 3:30-4:30pm. Talk to people about the things you read and have snacks. Crafts and other activities will be related to the book. Call the Library for January’s title.

Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org. (continued on next page)

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS Feb 2, Kids Night Out, 6- 9 or 10pm. An evening of safe recreational activities while parents enjoy a night out. Ages 6-14, dinner provided. $12 per child, Paradise Hills Community Center, 5901 Paradise NW; Raymond G. Sanchez Community Center, 9800 4th NW, 468-7800, bernco.gov/events.aspx.

Feb 10, Kids Night Out at SAGA Gymnastics, 4:30-8pm. Ages 5-17 can enjoy pizza, games and gymnastics while caregivers enjoy time to themselves. $35 per child, SAGA Gymnastics, 3400 Candelaria NE, 884-6949, sagagymnatics.com.

FOR TEACHERS Feb 4, Explora Escape Room Teacher Workshop, 10am-noon.

For teachers, librarians and OST professionals of grades 3+. This workshop will explore strategies for incorporating engineering, logic, math skills and creativity as students create their own escape rooms. Participants are eligible to receive a classroom visit on escape room activities for their students.

Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.

Feb 7, Explora Virtual Seeds and Soil EC Teacher Workshop, 2-4pm. A virtual workshop for early childhood educators, librarians and out-of-school time providers (2 CEU hours). Learn how to plant seeds of STEM with students. Get dirty with soil and dirt; design a seed through the Engineering Design Process and determine an ideal seed bomb. Register by Jan 26 at forms/ gle/42ywkte5b4Lxc6Rs6.

Feb 10, Explora Mystery Boxes Teacher Workshop, 10am-noon.

Tap into curiosity, problemsolving skills and the ability to make inferences while using inquiry to uncover the secrets of mystery boxes. Participants are eligible to receive a classroom visit and mystery boxes for their students. Register at forms.gle/z/ D6JgrareRJNzRN7.

Feb 20, STEM in Fairy Tales Virtual Teacher Workshop, 3-5pm. How much weight can Rapunzel’s hair hold? How tall is the Giant from Jack in the Beanstalk? Discover the answers and explore STEM in fairy tales. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.

Feb 22, Water Wonders EC Teacher Workshop, 10 am-noon.

A virtual workshop for early childhood educators, librarians and out-of-school time providers (2 CEU hours). Bring water and make discoveries about water: experiment with absorption, adhesion and surface tension. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora. us/events.

ALSO OF INTEREST Feb 10 & 11, Rail Yards Valentine Market, 10am-2pm. More than 100 food, farm and artisan maker vendors plus food trucks, handmade gifts and performances.

Free, ABQ Rail Yard, 777 1st SW, 600-1109, railyardsmarket.org.

ONGOING

ARTS & CRAFTS Tuesdays: Kids Open Studio, 10am-noon. Open studio time just for kids & their adults. Free, OffCenter Community Arts Project, 808 Park SW, 247-1172, offcenterarts.org/studio.

LIBRARY EVENTS Thursdays: Little Learners Storytime, 10:30-11:30am. Boost early ready skills at storytime with stories, songs, fingerplays and rhymes; ages up to 5 with adult caregiver. Free, Esther Bone Memorial Library, 950 Pinetree SE, RR, 891-5012, riorancholibraries.org.

Sundays: Sunday-Funday, 1-4pm.

A drop-in program for youth and their families with games, crafts, building blocks and toys. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 888-8100, abqlibrary.org.

MUSEUMS AND CULTURAL CENTERS First Fridays: First Friday Fractals, 6 & 7pm. A full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature and zooms through complex mathematical fractals; for ages 3+. $5 ages 3-12/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 8412800, nmnaturalhistory.org/events/ first-friday-fractals.

First Fridays: First Friday Fractals Rock!, 8 & 9pm. A full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of fractals in nature with less talk and more rock.

Included are more 3D fractal zooms (which can make some people motion sick) and less explanation; ages 3+. $5 ages 3-12/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org/events/firstfriday-fractals.

Mondays: Toddler Time, 9-11am.

Explora opens an hour early on Mondays for caregivers and toddlers to enjoy early childhood exhibit areas, story time and a music jam. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

Saturdays: Family Art Workshops, 1-2:30pm. All ages can enjoy projects with a variety of art mediums, materials supplied; childand adult-friendly. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov/ artsculture/albuquerque-museum/ events/family-art-workshops.

Saturdays & Sundays through March: Indian Pueblo Cultural Dance Program, noon. 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-dance-program.

JUST FOR TEENS Second Wednesdays: Teen Anime Club, 3:30-4:30pm. Join

like-minded fans for themed food and activities; for ages 13-19.

Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

Third Wednesdays: Teen Advisory Group, 3:30-4:30pm. Earn volunteer hours while making the library a great place for teens. Help plan programs and recommend library material; for ages 13-18.

Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

SCIENCE & NATURE Saturdays & Sundays: Guided Bird Walks, 8:30-10am. Join a volunteer naturalist and fellow birders for a guided walk; limited to 12, please register. $3 parking/day use fee, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org/ index.php/calendar.

STORY TIMES 2nd and 4th Tuesdays: Family Storytime, 10:30-11:15am. Join for family-oriented storytimes featuring stories, songs and puppets; recommended ages 3-5 and families. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8801 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary.org.

Tuesdays: Family Storytime, 10:30-11am. Enjoy stories and songs while developing early literacy; geared toward preschool/ kindergarten-aged children and their adults. Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 836-0684, abqlibrary.org.

Wednesdays: Beats & Boogie Storytime, 10:30-11am. Explore stories with tunes, twirls, songs and steps; for ages up to 6. Free, International District Library, 7601 Central NE, 768-4970, abqlibrary.org.

Wednesdays: Story Time at the Corrales Library, 10am.

Preschoolers and toddlers can enjoy stories, rhymes and occasional crafts with a librarian or guest story teller. Free, Corrales Community Library, 84 W La Entrada, Corrales, 897-0733, visitcorrales.com.

Wednesdays and Thursdays: Baby and Toddler Storytime, 10:1510;45am. Hear fund stories and sign along with old favorites like “Wheels on the Bus'' and “Itsy Bitsy Spider,” ages up to 2. Free, Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow NE, 8578321, abqlibrary.org.

ALSO OF INTEREST Mondays-Fridays: Preschool Open Gym, 11:45am-12:30pm. For children mobile to 5 years old. Free for enrolled students/$5 guests, SAGA Gymnastics, 3400 Candelaria NE, 884-6949, sagagynastics.com.

Fourth Friday: Kids Night Out, 6-10pm. An evening of safe recreational activities while parents enjoy a night out; for grades K-8, dinner provided. $12 per child, Los Padillas SW, 468-7600, bernco.gov/ events.aspx.

Last Friday of the Month: MVCC Skate Night, 6-8pm. Kids can enjoy music, snacks, games and skating; socks required, dinner provided. $5, Mountain View Community Center, 201 Prosperity SE, 314-0297, bernco.gov/events.aspx.

Second Friday: Kids Night Out, 6-9pm. Parents can enjoy a night out while their kids enjoy recreation games and roller skating.

Grades K-8, dinner provided. $12 per child, Mountain View Community Center, 201 Prosperity SE, 314-0297, bernco.gov/events.aspx.

Sundays, Meditation for Kids, 1011:30am. In this fun class, children build inner strength and confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching and activities to increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-10, masks required. By donation, Kadampa Meditation Center NM, 142 Monroe NE, 292-5293, meditationinnewmexico.org/ calendar.

RESOURCES

NM Dept of Cultural Affairs has information about NM museums, historic sites and other institutions.

Find information about free days for kids and on certain days of the month, newmexicoculture.org.

NM Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-amarket.

Teacher Resources: The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History offers a list of resources for teachers in general science, energy, chemistry, nuclear science and atomic history/nuclear proliferation, nuclearmuseum. org/educate/for-teachers/teacherresources.

Children’s Hour provides weekly educational and entertaining public radio programing and podcasts for listeners of all ages, created by and for kids and families, ChildrensHour. org, 89.9 fm KUNM.

FREE ADMISSION

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 not restricted.

ABQ Museum: free first Wednesdays, from 9am-5pm and Sunday mornings from 9am-1pm, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov/artsculture/ albuquerque-museum/events/freesunday-mornings-at-albuquerquemuseum.

Balloon Museum: free Sundays from 9am-1pm and first Fridays, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, 768-6020, balloonmuseum.com.

National Hispanic Cultural Center Visual Arts Museum, free ages 16 and under, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org.

NM Museum of Natural History and Science, free for NM residents first Sundays, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org.

Tingly Beach Recreational Area, free every day, 1800 Tingley SW, cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark/ tingley.

State Parks Free Entrance Days are listed at nps.gov/planyourvisit/feefree-parks-state.htm.

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 23

Santa Fe Kids! Calendar DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS (DEC 20-31)

ARTS AND CRAFTS Dec 21, Family Crafternoon: Solstice Lanterns and Farolitos, 3:30-5pm. Learn to make your own Solstice lanterns and Christmas farolitos. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

Dec 21, Hands-on Art with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum at the Library, 3:30pm. An open art workshop, participants will use provided supplies to create foam landscapes. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

Dec 22, Family Gingerbread House Making, 3:30-5pm. All materials provided while supplies last. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe.librarycalendar. com/events/upcoming.

Dec 28, Hands-on Art with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 3:30pm. An open art workshop, the end of the collage series participants will use provided supplies to create foam landscapes.

Main Library, 145 Washington, 9556781, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events/upcoming.

CULTURAL CENTERS AND MUSEUMS Dec 21-23, 26-31, La Luz de Las Noches, 4:30-7:30pm. During “The Light of the Nights,” stroll the farolito-lined Garden pathways while sipping a warm drink.

Twinkling holiday lights will lead to at least two live performers each night and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are included in the price of admission. See Santa on Dec 21, 5-7pm. Free for ages 5 and under/$6 & $8 youth/$22.50, $27, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

Dec 31, Community Day at the Garden, 9am-5pm. Free for NM residents and students, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 4719103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

DANCE Dec 20, “Holiday Flamenco 2023,” 7-8:30pm. An original flamenco extravaganza based, in part, on choreographer, dancer and singersongwriter Mina Fajardo’s album, “Holiday Flamenco.” $20 students, $25 general, Teatro Paraguas, 3205 Calle Marie, 424-1601, teatroparaguas@gmail.com.

LIBRARY EVENTS Dec 28, Throwback Movie Night: “The Muppets Christmas Carol,” 5:30-7pm. Enjoy popcorn and hot chocolate while watching this PG rated, 1992 movie. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe.librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

Dec 29, Kid Nature Party: Krampus Masks, 3:30-5pm. Explore children's folk traditions about Krampus and make a natureinspired Krampus mask out of papíer mache and found materials.

Hot cocoa and all craft supplies provided. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

MUSIC Dec 27, Discovery Series: Bach and Beyond for Families, 10am. This fun and festive one-hour concert explores Bach and his influence on generations of composers; with Colin Jacobsen and the Pro Musica Bach Ensemble. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 988-4640, sfpromusica.org.

SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS Dec 18-22, 26-29, Wise Fool Winter Break Camp, 9am-3:30pm. Camps for ages 7-12 with any level of experience can learn stilt walking, trapeze, juggling, aerial fabric, clowning, acrobatics and puppetry. $400, Wisefool, 1131 Siler Rd B, 992-2588, wisefoolnewmexico.org.

Dec 18-22, 27-29, Santa Fe Children’s Museum Winter Break Camp, 9am-3pm. Art, science and play featuring the Stargazer planetarium, new projects and enhanced exhibits to explore.

Aftercare available from 3-5pm. $15 per day, per camper/$12 per day per camper for each additional sibling. Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

STAGE Dec 23, Winter Cabaret: “In The Clouds,” 2-4pm & 6-8pm. Join performers, coaches and students for a playful, family-friendly evening of circus arts in the clouds.

A sparkling, sky-clouds themed variety show featuring a multitude of artists and disciplines; no one will be turned away due to lack of funds. $5 youth/$10-$15 presale, $20 day of, Wise Fool NM, 992-2588, 1131 Siler B, wisefoolnm.org.

JUST FOR TEENS Dec 30, Possibility Through Poetry: Writing Workshop with SF Poet Laureate Ambassador, Janna Lopez, 11am-1pm. Explore dreams through creativity, imagination and poetry. Poems of hope and possibility will be shared. Write about your own intentions for 2024 with gentle guidance and support.

Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafe.librarycalendar. com/events/upcoming.

ALSO OF INTEREST Dec 21, Make Music Winter, 2-4pm. Gather around the fire pit on The Candyman porch for this family-friendly sing along event with the Candyman’s piano and vocal teacher who will lead a singing circle of Christmas carols.

Participants will receive a free rhythm shaker and enjoy hot cocoa, apple cider and snacks. Free,The Candyman Porch, 851 St. Michael’s, 983-5906, candymansf.com/makemusic-winter.

Dec 24, Santa Fe Farolito Walk on Canyon Road, 6-11pm. This holiday tradition incorporates thousands of flickering votive candles in paper bags lining historic neighborhood streets and adobe walls, resulting

24 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

in a warm inviting glow for evening strollers. Free, Canyon Road, farolitowalk.com.

Dec 31, New Year’s Eve on the Plaza, 8am-noon. A community celebration on the Santa Fe Plaza, highlighted by the rising (not dropping) of a Zia symbol, live music, bonfires, hot cocoa and fireworks. Free, Santa Fe Plaza, 63 Lincoln, santafe.org/nye.

Dec 31, Noon Years Eve Party, 11am-1pm. Ring in 2024 with special guests, activities and a balloon drop. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

JANUARY

ARTS & CRAFTS Jan 11, Hands-On Art for Kids with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum at the Library, 3:30-4:30pm. An open art workshop for kids. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 9554862, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events/upcoming.

Jan 18, Hands-On Art for Kids with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum at the Library, 3:30-4:30pm. An open art workshop for kids. Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe.librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

Jan 19, Friday Afternoon Art: Printmaking, 2:30-4:30pm. All ages and abilities can explore hands-on printmaking; supplies provided. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

Jan 25, Throwback Movie Night: “Star Wars: A New Hope,” 5-7:30pm. Enjoy free popcorn and hot cocoa at this PG rated, 1977 movie viewing; costumes welcome.

Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe.librarycalendar. com/events/upcoming.

CULTURAL CENTERS AND MUSEUMS Jan 1, La Luz de Las Noches, 4:30-7:30pm. During “The Light of the Nights,” stroll the farolito-lined Garden pathways while sipping a warm drink. Twinkling holiday lights will lead to at least two live performers each night and nonalcoholic beverages and snacks are included in the price of admission.

See Santa on Dec 21, 5-7pm. Free for ages 5 and under/$6 & $8 youth/$22.5, $27,Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

Jan 5, Fine Art Friday, 2-4pm.

An exploration into the arts with special guests and hands-on activities. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Jan 6, 27, Science Saturday, 2-4pm. Science fun for all ages with exciting experiments and activities.

Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, Santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Jan 7, Family Mornings at Folk Art, 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, internationalfolkart.org.

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS Jan 23, A Celebration of Aunties, 5:30pm. A celebration of family and community with Native American vendors, food, music and a presentation from Indigenous Performance Productions.

Featuring director Kendra Potter, executive producer Andre Bouchard, and students from the Institute of American Indian Arts. $10 children/$40 adults, Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA), 83 Avan Nu Po, 424-2300, iaia.edu.

LIBRARY EVENTS Area Libraries offer many activities like Bilingual Books and Babies, Read to a Pup!, Game Time, Chess Clubs, After-School Clubs, Story Time, Movies and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: santafe.librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming, vglibrary.org.

Jan 6, 20, Parent & Tot Creative Movement, 10-11am. A gentle, introductory class for children and their caregiver based on child development theories and discovery of dance through play.

Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafe.librarycalendar. com/events/upcoming.

Jan 6, 20, Read to a Pup! 11:30am12:30pm. Early school-age children can practice their reading skills by sharing a story with a local therapy dog. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

Jan 13, Baby & Toddler Play Hour, 10:30-11:30am. Unstructured play where children can explore and interact with other children and new educational toys. Learn and make social connections together with your toddler. Free, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

MUSIC Jan 28, Cantata Series I, 5:30pm.

This new Cantata series includes: Cantata BWV 23, Du wahrer Gott und Davids Sohn (“Thou very God and David’s Son”) and Cantata BWV 114, Ach, lieben Christen, seid getrost (“Dear Christians, be ye comforted”). Bach composed the sacred Cantatas BWV 22 and 23 when he applied for the position of Thomascantor in Leipzig. The first three movements of BWV 23 were composed while he was still in Cöthen; he added a fourth movement after obtaining the position in Leipzig. Cantata BWV 114 was written in Leipzig and first performed on October 1, 1724.

It was part of his second annual Cantata cycle for the Thomaskirche.

Many of Bach’s cantatas were based on Lutheran chorale tunes, including this one: He utilized the chorale melody in movements 1, 4 and 7. Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel, 50 Mount Carmel, 4744513, nmpas.org. (continued on next page)

Santa Fe Kids! Calendar SCIENCE & NATURE Jan 5, Science After School, 3:30-4:30pm. Participate in handson STEM experiments for schoolaged children. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events/upcoming.

STORYTELLING Jan 4, Fun with Firefighters, 1-2pm.

Join the SF Fire Department for story time and head outside to visit their fire truck. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 9898359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

JUST FOR TEENS Jan 16, Creative Writing: Teens and Adults, 6-7:45pm. Join the creative writing group and drop in for workshopping needs. Begin with a writer’s check-in and optional writing exercises plus occasional visits from local authors. Time will mostly be spent on personal writing projects, followed by sharing and feedback if desired. All levels and genres are welcome. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafelibrary.calendar.com/events/ upcoming.

FEBRUARY

ARTS & CRAFTS Feb 6, 13, 20, 27, After School Art, 3:30-4:30pm. Practice creative skills with themed art sessions. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 9556837, santafelibrary.calendar.com/ events/upcoming.

CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS Feb 4, Family Mornings at Folk Art, 11am-noon. Story time, art activity and exploration of the galleries.

Included with admission, Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.

Feb 4, Lunar Year Celebration, 1-4pm. Celebrate the Year of the Dragon and Asian New Year traditions; museum admission free all day. Free, Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.

LIBRARY EVENTS Area Libraries offer activities like Lego Club, Book Groups, Bilingual Books and Babies, Read to a Pup, Game Time, Chess Clubs, AfterSchool Clubs, Story Time, Movies and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming, vglibrary.org.

Feb 3, 17, Parent & Tot Creative Movement, 10-11am. A gentle, introductory class for children and their caregiver based on child development theories and discovery of dance through play.

Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafe.librarycalendar. com/events/upcoming.

Feb 3, 17, Read to a Pup! 11:30am-12:30pm. Early school age children can practice their reading skills by sharing a story with a local therapy dog. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events/upcoming.

Feb 10, Baby & Toddler Play Hour, 10:30-11:30am. Unstructured play where children can explore and interact with other children and new educational toys. Learn and make social connections together with your toddler. Free, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

SCIENCE & NATURE Feb 3, 24, Science Saturday, 2-4pm.

Science fun for all ages with exciting experiments and activities. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

STAGE Feb 1, Peking Acrobats!, 7:30pm.

Accompanied by live musicians, the world-renowned troupe performs acrobatic feats with high-tech special effects, displays of contortion, flexibility and control. $35-$59, Lensic Performing Arts Center, 211 W. San Francisco, 988-1234, lensic.org/events/ peking-acrobats.

Feb 3, Santa Fe Opera Young Voices Concert, 1-2pm. The Santa Fe Opera presents singers from their “Young Voices” high school program. Learn about opera and enjoy performances. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events/upcoming.

Feb 6, MOMIX, 7:30pm. MOMIX, an internationally-revered company, will take audiences down the rabbit hole in Moses Pendleton’s newest creation, “Alice,” inspired

by Lewis Carroll’s classic “Alice in Wonderland” to kick off Aspen SF Ballet’s winter season. $36-$114, Lensic Performing Arts Center, 211 W. San Francisco, 988-1234, lensic.org/events/momix.

STORYTELLING Feb 1, Fun with Firefighters, 1-2pm. Join the SF Fire Department for story time and a visit to their fire truck. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, ­­989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

JUST FOR TEENS Feb 6, 20, Creative Writing: Teens and Adults, 6-7:45pm. Join the creative writing group and drop in for workshopping needs. Begin with a writer’s check-in, optional writing exercises and occasional visits from local authors. Time will mostly be spent on personal writing projects, followed by sharing and feedback if desired. All levels and genres are welcome. All levels and genres are welcome. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafelibrary.calendar.com.

ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS Feb 3, 24, NM School for the Arts (NMSA) Application Workshop, 9am. NMSA accepts applications for incoming students in grades 9-12 across the state through a process in one of its core disciplines: Creative Writing and Literature, Dance, Music (Voice and Instrumental), Theatre and Visual Arts. Students currently in the 8th, 9th or 10th grades who

are passionate about their art and eager to meet the challenges of a professional arts mastery education are excellent candidates. Free, NMSA, 500 Montezuma, 670-0074, nmschoolforthearts.org/ admissions-overview/.

ONGOING

CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS Thursdays: Animal Meet & Greet, 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, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Thursdays: Seeds & Sprouts, 10:30-11:30am. Kids explore nature from fun in the backyard, to inhouse programming. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, ­­989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Wednesdays: Wee Wednesdays, 10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story time and play. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

LIBRARY EVENTS Bilingual Books and Babies, 10am.

The power of music and song are 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: 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, 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/ upcoming.

Fridays: Chess, 3-5pm. Free, Vista Grande Library, 14 Avenida Torreon, 466-7323, vglibrary.org.

Tuesdays: Wags and Words, 6-7pm. Early school-aged children can practice their reading skills by sharing a story with a dog from the SF Animal Shelter Pet Outreach Program. Call or email to sign up, mkatencio@santafenm.gov. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafe.librarycalendar. com/events/upcoming.

Thursdays: Pajama Story Time/ Hora Del Cuento En Pijama, 6:30-7:30pm. A cozy evening story time that includes a snack and a craft, for parents and preschool children. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

Thursdays: Yoga and Movement for Kids, 10:30am. Join for children’s yoga, joyful movement and kinesthetic creativity; all ages have fun getting bodies moving.

Children must be accompanied

by an adult, mats provided but if you have one, bring it. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 9554862, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events/upcoming.

Wednesdays: Youth Chess Club, 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.

SCIENCE AND NATURE Saturdays: Saturday Morning Guided Birding, 8:30-9:30am. Join a volunteer docent for guided birding around the gardens and grounds.

1800 Upper Canyon, randalldavey. audubon.org/events/saturdaymorning-guided-birding-27.

JUST FOR TEENS Wednesdays: Teen Lounge, 2-4pm. A safe space for teens to decompress after school with art supplies, homework tables, laptops & WiFi board games, tea and snacks. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4863, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/ upcoming.

FREE ADMISSION

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.

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: First Fridays, 5-7pm, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.

Museum of International Folk Art: Tuesday-Sunday, ages 16 and under; all NM foster families, first Sundays with NM ID, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.

NM Museum of Art: TuesdaySunday, ages 16 and under; all NM foster families, first Fridays, 5-7pm; first Sundays for NM residents, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

NM History Museum: TuesdaySunday, ages 16 and under; all NM foster families, free first Sundays for NM residents, 113 Lincoln, 4765200, nmhistorymuseum.org.

Santa Fe Children’s Museum: Thursdays YOUR Days, All exhibits are free from 4-6pm, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Kit, age 7

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 25

Albuquerque

Albuquerque

Albuquerque

26 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Albuquerque

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IS A GIVEN. Finding your place is the difference.

COME SEE WHAT SETS BOSQUE SCHOOL APART. Join us January 23 at 6:00 pm for an admission information night.

Bring your family to see our campus, engage with our students, talk to our faculty, and learn more about Bosque School.

Visit bosqueschool.org/admission/admission-information-night to register.

Unable to attend? There are many ways to get to know Bosque School. Visit bosqueschool.org/admission for more information.

Why Bosque School?

Academic Excellence | Dynamic Curriculum | Strong Community Bosque School is a college-preparatory independent school for grades 6-12, educating middle and high school students in an academically challenging, student-centered learning environment.

Voted Albuquerque’s best private school four years in a row!

2022

2020

READERS’CHOICE

READERS’CHOICE

WINNER

WINNER

Ready for college. Ready for career. Ready for life.

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 27

Kids' Art

Quinton, age 9

Dana, age 5

Albuquerque

28 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Albuquerque

Secrets of the Magician

By TONY COMITO There are secrets hidden in books.

When I was 15 years old, I purchased a magician’s library. In it were great old magic books. Now, I’m a professional magician.

I still live in Albuquerque and still own this library, which I’ve added to for over 50 years.

I read these books every day to get new tricks for my magic show. One of my favorite books in the collection is a rare first edition of “Houdini's Paper Magic” by Harry Houdini, dated 1922. Lucky for you, this book has been reprinted and is available online for under $10. You may also be able to find it in your school or public library.

One of my favorite tricks from this book is called “The Fir Tree.” Try this for fun. You can recycle a back copy of New Mexico Kids! Take eight sheets of newspaper and tape them together on the short ends to make one very long sheet of paper.

Roll this into a loose tube and tape the end so it won't unravel. Tear or cut the tube down the side to the halfway point three times. Now, pull the tree up from the inside of the tube. Wow! There you have it. The Houdini paper fir tree!

Albuquerque

Albuquerque

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MAR. 1 & 2, 2024 @ 7 p.m.

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 29

Van of Enchantment Takes Learning on the Road

By DJ HILL As Albert Einstein once said, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”

Such was the case facing the Santa Fe Children’s Museum and Executive Director Hannah Hausman in 2020. The world, and the museum, were largely shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic and “hands-on learning through play” was put on an indefinite hiatus. Even the museum’s popular traveling Stargazer program, powered by space and bilingual STEM educator/NASA Solar Ambassador Carlos Gonzalez, had to take a pause due to indoor distancing requirements.

Hausman and her team were challenged to figure out how to provide access to museum programs, having neither an open facility nor the means to reach their primary audience: families with children up to age 8 within a 100-mile radius.

Hausman, a seasoned children’s museum director and Santa Fe native, and her team tapped into a group of technology and media arts students at New Mexico Highlands University. The team met to brainstorm ideas of what programming would look like once the museum reopened and how best to expand their outreach to those needing it most.

Fueled by the fervor of the late Michaelann Perea, a board member of both the museum and the Rotary Club of Santa Fe — and her insistence that this might be a great project for the Rotary during its centennial celebration — the concept of a “mobile museum” rose to the forefront. While the idea wasn’t novel, it became the panacea and means by which the organization could continue to honor its mission of supporting equitable access and celebrating and advocating for all families within and beyond museum doors.

Thanks to the hard work and creative problem solving of Hausman and the Highlands students, generous financial commitments from the Rotary Club and Thornburg Investment Management, and governance by the museum board of directors, on-the-road popup learning drew closer to becoming a reality.

There was one hitch, however: Expanding programming to a wider audience would require the means to get there. Again, community members stepped forward. Capitol Ford made the purchase of a new, custom van economically feasible, and voila, the Van of Enchantment was born.

“What I’m most proud of is how this brought key community partners together so we could provide outreach to those who need it,” said Hausman.

With its debut on April 30, Van of Enchantment hit the road with six “stem-on-the-go” options delivered to schools and communities throughout the state. The STEM kits provide an interdisciplinary approach to help kids discover real-world applications for the Four Cs — critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity. The activities also encourage development of key skills such as problem solving

30 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

and critical analysis and, perhaps more importantly, engage kids in learning.

“We have early childhood educators and two licensed teachers on site who develop and evaluate the kits,” Hausman said.

“We work with schools and the tribal library system to be sure the contents are culturally relevant.”

Once the van embarked on its inaugural road trip, momentum carried the program forward. On any given day, the museum on wheels and its specially trained youth mentors deliver

(continued on next page)

Albuquerque

Van of Enchantment Takes Learning on the Road (continued from previous page)

hands-on learning kits to kids. Whether to one of 19 Pueblos across the state, a Girl Scout Jamboree, a fair in Las Vegas, or a regular gig at the Southside Branch of the Santa Fe Public Library, the white van emblazoned with STEM graphics, the Rotary logo and the tag line “Bringing Discovery, Learning and Play to Your Community” is at the ready.

“Pop-up learning happens organically. It’s less structured than in the museum,” Hausman said. “With on-the-go learning, we can get creative and flexible.”

While recent attention has focused on the mobile museum, Hausman and the staff continue to assess and oversee the extensive offerings at their main site on Old Pecos Trail. A plethora of programs and events continue to inspire and entice learners of all ages, along with exhibits, field trips, camps and birthday party/facility rentals, plus exciting renovations to the backyard outdoor play space and a new, portable COVID-safe planetarium.

It is clear the Santa Fe Children’s Museum staff have no plans to rest on their laurels.

The effort and consideration invested in both the sticks and bricks museum and its mobile counterpart during a time of global uncertainty have paid off. The museum is, according to

its website, “the only organization of its kind serving 60,000 children and families on an annual basis through their inspired and easily accessible programming.”

Van visits are complimentary while the museum itself offers admission discounts and free admission from 4-6 p.m. on Thursdays. A recent grant made Stargazer planetarium visits to public and Title 1 schools in Northern New Mexico free of charge.

It’s easy to see why Hausman continues to be passionate about providing hands-on-learning to all children, regardless of location or means.

“Birth to age 5 is a crucial developmental time for unstructured play. It’s important for every child to experience art, culture and community,” she said. “I love learning and want to make sure all kids feel they belong and have a safe space to learn.”

Albuquerque

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 31

Directory of Schools & Academic Support Programs Santa Fe: Fayette Street Academy, 830 Fayette St.,

SF, NM 87505. Phone: 505-982-3396; Email: info@ fayettestreetacademy.org; Website: fayettestreetacademy. org; Ages: 5-12; Enrollment: ~42; Average Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/5; Cost: $10,500. For over 43 years, we have offered high quality, individualized education with a small studentto-teacher ratio. Our scholar citizens, ages 5-12, are divided between a kindergarten and 3 multi-age classes, based on levels of neurological development. Our curriculum is constructed to match these different stages. Piaget was correct when he said children are not simply little adults, they actually perceive the world in different ways at different ages.

We hope you will come tour our wonderful campus in Santa Fe! Fayette Street Academy is currently discussing enrollment for the coming year, for all classes.

Little Earth School, 321 West Zia Rd., SF, NM 87505.

Phone: 505-988-1968; Email: Carolyn@littleearthschool. org; Website: littleearthschool.org; Contact: Carolyn Brandi, Director. Grades: Age 2-Elementary School; Maximum Enrollment: 58; Established in 1978, Little Earth School provides a successful program of academic excellence for children preschool through elementary. Children learn through an integrated, developmentally appropriate and experiential curriculum which includes art, music, Spanish, yoga, environmental and multicultural studies and which emphasizes respect for self and others. Tuition assistance and before and after care available.

public and private high schools of their choice as academic and social leaders. Financial Aid; Before & After Care. Enrichment programs: Self-defense, electives. Call or email to schedule a visit.

Academic Support Programs: Santa Fe Children's Museum, 1050 Old

Pecos Trail, SF, NM 87505. Phone: 954-303-4028; Email: hhausman@santafechildrensmuseum.org; Website: santafechildrensmuseum.org; Contact: Hannah Hausman, Executive Director. Open Wednesday – Sunday, Cost: Admission: $7–$12 with discounts and FREE Thursday afternoons (4 pm-6 pm). Winter Explorers Camp- Winter Wizards: Dec. 18–22 & Artic Animals: Dec. 27– 29 The Museum provides ongoing educational programming, including complimentary virtual and in-person field trips, graband-go kits, in-person STEAM camps, and weekly programs.

Albuquerque: 1st Class Learning Center, 5111 Homestead

NM 87505-5964. Phone: 505-983-1621; Email: admissions@ riograndeschool.org; Website: riograndeschool.org; Contact: Rachel Rosebery, Director of Admissions. Grades: Preschool6th Grade; Ages: 3 years through 12; Enrollment (No.): 170; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:5; Cost: 15,000-22,000. Accredited by: NAIS, ISAS. Rio Grande School is a small, coeducational, nonsectarian independent school for children in prekindergarten through sixth grade. We strive to inspire a lifelong journey of learning and self-discovery that empowers students to find their own true passion and transforms the way they think about, engage with, and impact their world.

Scholarships; Before and After Care. Enrichment programs: ASAP and Summer Camp

Circle NW, Abq, NM 87120. Phone: 505-898-5702; Email: 1stclasslearningcenter@gmail.com; Website: 1stclasslearningcenter.com; Contact: Leann C Gordinier, Owner/Director. Ages: 6 Weeks to 12 Years Old. Mission Statement: To provide a learning environment that is safe, enjoyable, interesting and peaceful for all children, their families and community. We believe in our curriculum where 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. Financial Aid; Before & After Care. Enrichment program: FOCUS and NM Pre-K. Reasonable childcare for 6 weeks-12 years old. ECECD subsidized care is also available, and we do not charge sales tax. Discounts are also available. We have an age-appropriate curriculum. We serve nutritional meals mandated by CACFP. All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and have their background clearance. Staff also takes childcare training mandated by the ECECD. – NOW HIRING!

Santa Fe Girls' School, 310 W Zia Rd, Santa Fe, NM

Albuquerque Academy, 6400 Wyoming Blvd. NE,

Rio Grande School, 715 Camino Cabra, Santa Fe,

87505. Phone: 505-820-3188; Email: info@santafegirlsschool. org; Web site: https://santafegirlsschool.org/; Contact: Rosie Williams, Co-Director. Grades: 6-8; Enrollment (No.): 45; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:7; Cost: $16,200; Dedicated to middle school girls, the Santa Fe Girls’ School cultivates discerning minds, strong voices, and emotional wisdom through substantive academics and authentic student-teacher connections. Our thoughtful academic curricula engages our students’ curiosity and excellence; our small class size ensures that each student's abilities, challenges and accomplishments are recognized by her teachers. Our graduates go on to the

32 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Abq, NM 87109. Phone: 505-828-3208; Email: admission@ aa.edu; Website: aa.edu; Contact: Melissa Seligman, Director of Admission and Enrollment Management. Grades: 6 - 12; Enrollment: 1,185; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:7; Cost: $27,066 (2023-24 full tuition amount); Accredited by: Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS). We believe that children’s lives change when their natural passion for learning is nurtured and transformed into habits of lifelong learning and reflection. Albuquerque Academy commits itself to this mission and continues to evolve, keeping pace with the needs of tomorrow. What will your child accomplish when (continued on next page)

Directory of Schools & Academic Support Programs they can dive deeply into their passions with the support of our dedicated teachers? We invite you to learn more about Albuquerque Academy, and we look forward to learning more about you! Financial aid is available. The Academy has a wide array of extracurricular activities – from sports teams to clubs.

Applications for Fall 2024 are available at aa.edu/admission/.

December 7, 2023: Grade 6 early decision applications due.

February 8, 2024: Regular admission applications due.

classes and electives, after-school programs and competitive elementary and middle school athletics. Financial Aid/Before and After Care. Enrichment programs: Spanish, Music, Art, PE for all. Additional MS electives covering variety of topics. Set up your personal tour today and see how your child can learn and succeed in a loving environment where expectations are high.

Albuquerque School of Excellence, 13201

Abq, NM 87102. Phone: 505-242-3033; Email: office@ edelsol.org; Website: escueladelsol.org; Contact: Elizabeth Marcilla; Administrative Director. Grades/Ages: 18 months thru 8th grade; Enrollment: 200; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:6 Toddler, 1:12 Primary, Elementary & Jr. High. Accredited by American Montessori Society, National Council on Private School Accreditation. Escuela del Sol Montessori is an independent not-for-profit school that provides the best educational conditions to engage and nurture every child’s innate passion to learn. Fundamental skills are integrated into an interdisciplinary program to nurture creativity and enthusiasm for learning while fostering critical thinking and social responsibility. Learning in an environment of kindness, courtesy, self-respect, and consideration for others is crucial to moral development, a sense of dignity, and academic success.

Scholarships/Financial Aid; Before and After Care. Enrichment programs: Spanish, Music, Art, Gardening. On-site chefs provide delicious & nutritious lunches & snacks.

Lomas Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87112. 505-312-7711; Email: npetersen@abqse.org; Website: www.abqse.org; Contact: Nancy Petersen, Enrollment Coordinator. Grades: K-12; Enrollment (No.): 1000; Teacher/Student Ratio: 16:1; Cost: NONE. Before and After Care. Albuquerque School of Excellence is an Independent Public Charter School. ASE is a STEAM-based school largely focused on academic preparation for college. ASE has been recognized as a 2022 Blue Ribbon School. We are A Rated by NMPED and are in the process of becoming the first school of Character in NM. Please reach out to our Enrollment Coordinator for more information and to get a tour of our campus. clubs, engagement and intervention electives, college visits, and more!

Bosque School, 4000 Bosque School Rd., Abq,

NM 87120. Phone: 505-898-6388; Email: admission@ bosqueschool.org; Website: bosqueschool.org; Bosque School is a college preparatory school educating students in grades 6-12. At the heart of Bosque School is a supportive, welcoming community in which our commitment to academic excellence and whole-education child education prepares our students for the challenges of college and equips them with the skills to excel in all aspects of life. Our intentionally small class sizes allow our passionate and dedicated teachers to establish meaningful, individual connections with each student and serve as mentors as they guide them throughout middle and high school. We challenge students to step out of their comfort zones and encourage them to take risks, create, and try new things. This mindset ensures that our students are prepared for life after high school, instills in them a lifelong passion for learning, and gives them the confidence to make meaningful contributions to the world around them.

Eastern Hills Christian Academy, 3100 Morris St. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111. Phone: 505-294-3373; Email: schoolboard@easternhillsca.com; Website: goEHCA.org; Contact: Hollie Brooks, Administrator. Grades: Preschool-8th; Enrollment (No.): 100; Teacher/Student Ratio: Preschool/ Pre-K 1:8, K-8th 1:10; Cost: $5,540 - $8,890. Accredited by: ACSI, Cognia, NMPED, ECECD. Describe your school, college or tutoring center & include special features in no more than 75 words: For over 50 years, EHCA has provided Preschool8th grade children a Christ centered education that equips and inspires them to serve God and impact their world. We prepare each child for their future through an education where God's word is studied, Christian character is developed, and academic excellence is pursued. Our students discover and explore their passions through a variety of enrichment

Escuela del Sol Montessori, 1114 7th St. NW,

Holy Ghost Catholic School, 6201 Ross Ave.

SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. Phone: 505-256-1563; Email: holyghost@hgcsabq.com; Website: www.hgcsabq.com; Contact: Nichole Dominguez-Chavez, Principal.

Grades: pre-k to 8; Enrollment (No.): 130; Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:13; Cost: $5,600; Accredited by: Western Catholic Education Association. Holy Ghost Catholic School has a long tradition of providing a high-quality education for all students.

To keep this tradition, Holy Ghost Catholic School is always looking to the future to ensure that we are providing and equipping our students with the best tools to succeed. As a result of these efforts, Holy Ghost Catholic School is now the first and only pre-k to 8th grade Catholic school in the state of New Mexico to receive a National Certificate for STEM Excellence. Scholarships/Financial Aid; Before and After Care.

Enrichment programs: music, library, computer technology, Spanish, art, STEM, after school clubs (sports, chess, choir, guitar) We offer military, family referral, and multiple student discounts, as well as tuition assistance to those who qualify.

HOPE Christian School, 6731 Palomas Ave

NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109. Phone: 505-822-5399; Email: admissions@hcsnm.org; Website: HCSNM.org; Contact: Roxann Vineyard, Director of Enrollment Management.

Grades: PreK-3 - High School; Ages: 3-18; Enrollment (No.): 1450; Teacher/Student Ratio: Preschool 12:1; K-12th 20:1; Cost: $5,276 - $10,789. Accredited by: ICAA, AdvancEd (Cognia), and NMPED. HOPE Christian School is a nondenominational, independent private Christian school in the NE Heights of Albuquerque serving students aged 3 - 18.

(continued on Page 34)

New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 33

Directory of Schools & Academic Support Programs HOPE has three campuses along Palomas Ave NE, including Preschool/Elementary, Middle School, and High School. (A brand NEW HIGH SCHOOL facility is breaking ground this summer!) HOPE offers Advanced Academics, Award-winning Drama & Arts, and Championship Sports - with a Full Athletics Program from 1st grade - all approached from a Biblical worldview. Scholarships/Financial Aid, Before and After Care.

Enrichment programs: After School Clubs, Music Education, Athletics & more. Despite being the largest Christian school in Albuquerque, HOPE is known for its close-knit community.

A brand NEW HIGH SCHOOL facility is breaking ground this summer!

Manzano Day School, 1801 Central Ave.NW,

Abq, NM 87104. Phone: 505-243-6659; Email: evillegas@ manzanodayschool.org; Website: manzanodayschool.org; Contact: Emily Villegas, Director of Admission and Financial Aid. Grades: Pre-k through 5th; Enrollment: 460; Teacher/ Student Ratio: 1/10; Cost: $13,305 - $16,990; Accredited by: ISAS and NM Department of Education. Manzano Day School, founded in 1938, is an independent, nonsectarian elementary school dedicated to innovative child-centered education, excellence in teaching, and Joy in Learning® to prepare children for a life of discovery and community involvement in our diverse world. Applications for 2024-25 are now being accepted. Financial Aid; Bus Service; Before and After Care.

New Mexico International School, 7215

Montgomery Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87109.

Phone: 505-503-7670; Email: registrar@nmis.org; Website: nmis.org; Contact: Carmen Farello, Registrar. Grades: K-8; Enrollment (No.): 400; Teacher/Student Ratio: 15:1; Cost: Free public school; Accredited by: APS and International Baccalaureate. NMIS is a K-8 public charter school. Our instructional program focuses on language development. Our target students are native English speakers that we immerse in a Spanish program starting in Kinder, and then we add Arabic in 4th grade. We are one of three International Baccalaureate elementary programs in New Mexico. We have a strong fine arts program with Suzuki violin, viola, cello and bass, as well as a vibrant visual arts course. We have student athletics in grades 5-8. Before and After Care. Enrichment programs: Chess, Arabic, Student Council, Athletics

North Valley Academy, 7939 4th Street NW, Los

Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM, 87114. Phone: 505-998-0501; Email: jgeldmacher@nvanm.org; Website: nvanm.org; Contact: Julie Geldmacher, Head Administrator, Grades: PreK-8th; Enrollment (No.): 260; Teacher/Student Ratio: 18:1; Accredited by: NM State. North Valley Academy is a public charter school, serving grades K-8, with a Health and Wellness focus located in the Village of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque. NVA offers unique opportunities, including outdoor experiences, cooking classes, gardening, and dance. Before and After Care: Yes; Enrichment programs: PE, Art, Photography, Mentoring, NDI, Cottonwood Gulch

34 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Sandia Preparatory School, 532 Osuna Rd.

NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113. Phone: 505-338-3007; Email: admission@sandiaprep.org; Website: sandiaprep.org; Contact: Ray Nelson, Director of Admission. Grades 6–12 Teacher/Student Ratio: 1/7; Enrollment: 522; Accredited

by National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS).

Sandia Prep is an independent, college preparatory school.

Your student will take meaningful risks in a supportive community while learning who they are and who they want to become. Through a blend of contemporary and traditional education, your student will think creatively, critically, and without limits. They will grow in confidence and resilience as they navigate the world. Our cohesive community means no one goes overlooked or unnoticed. "Small by design” means greater opportunities for each student to grow as a leader.

Forty percent of our students receive need-based financial aid. Enrichment Programs: The Center for Learning Excellence (CFLE) at Sandia Prep offers academic services to meet the individual needs and learning styles of students. It is our philosophy that all attending students should be afforded opportunities to succeed academically. The Center for Learning Excellence offers Academic Coaching, Accommodation Plans, Study Strategies Support, ACT/SAT Standardized Test Accommodations, and community tutors. Visit us today to see why the future goes to Sandia Prep. Apply for the 2023-2024 school year at sandiaprep.org.

Academic Support Programs: Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd. NW, Abq, NM 87104. Phone:

505-600-6072; Website: explora.us; Contact: Reservations Manager. All ages. Scholarships. Explora offers educational enrichment programs for children, families, teachers, schools, and community organizations, serving tens of thousands of students annually. Educators trained in inquiry-based learning offer programs fostering the joy of learning that encourages curiosity and builds critical thinking skills through creative science, technology, engineering, art, and math investigations.

These include Growing a Scientist™ for children ages 2 1/2 to 5 and their adult companion(s); Science to Grow On™ for Grades K-3 (parent participation is encouraged); Home School Exploration Series for Grades K-8; and more. Other learning enrichment programs include Winter, Spring and Summer Camps for Grades PreK-teens, Single day "School's Out" Camps during APS days off for Grades K-5, and Birthday Parties with science activities for ages 2 and up. We also offer professional development for teachers and early childhood providers.

Some of these include a Continuing Education Certificate for 2 competency hours.

Huntington Learning Center, 8201 Golf

Course Rd. NW, Ste. B-3, Abq, NM 87120. Phone: 505-7973073; Contact: Sohale Mufti; Website: huntingtonhelps.com/ center/albuquerque-west. Grades: K-12; Days/Hours: Monday to Saturday. Year after year we continue to offer children, ages 5-17, supplemental instruction in reading, writing, (continued on next page)

Directory of Schools & Academic Support Programs 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.

specilized camps for summer in STEM. Flexible hours, various financing options and continous learnng with a reward-based system is what leads to our success in learning. Sylvan is where learning is FUN!!! Call us today to schedule your student’s assessment. Enrichment programs: AP Prep

Tutor-Me, 5528 Eubank NE, Ste. 6, Abq, NM 87111.

Sylvan Learning Centers of Albuquerque,

East Location: 10555 Montgomery Blvd., NE, Ste 70, Albuquerque, NM 87111. Contact: Maria Romero (Director); Phone: (505) 296-1155; Email: maria@sylvanisgreat.com.

West Location: 10200 Golf Course Rd., NW, Ste G Albuquerque, NM 87114. Contact: Jennifer Gutierrez (Director); Phone: (505) 899-3061; Email: jennifer@sylvanisgreat.com. Website: www. sylvanlearning.com Grades: PreK - College Certified Proctoring Facility; Ages: 5-99; Enrollment (No.): 200; Teacher/Student Ratio: 3:1; Cost: Prices Vary Depending on Enrollment. Sylvan Learning Centers of Albuquerque has has been in business since 1994, with a proven track record for success in learning on all levels. There are two locations conveniently located on the east and west sides of Albuquerque. We are focused on all levels of learning, adaptive ability to learn and can assist in all subjects: including reading, math, writing, study skills, and can help with ACT/SAT/College Prep courses as well. Our Certified intstuctors and licensed instructors are experts in all subjects and all grade levels. Individualized plans are generated after an initial comprehensive exam with an extensive overview of the students testing. Tutoring for all grade levels as well as

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 35

The Young Scientist

By AILEEN O’CATHERINE

Have you ever thought about what it might be like to travel through time? Have you imagined going back to correct a mistake, or to see how you looked as a baby? The movie “Back to the Future” explored this idea through a fictional device called the DeLorean Time Machine, which the character Marty McFly used to go back in time to meet his mother before she had married his father. But is time travel possible outside the world of science fiction?

Time travel is not only possible, it’s inevitable. As you read these words, you’re traveling through time at a rate of one second per second. When the scientist Albert Einstein developed his theory of relativity, he noted that nothing can travel faster than the speed of light. (Light travels through a vacuum at the speed of 299,792,458 meters per second — equal to 983,571,056 feet or 186,000 miles per second).

Einstein’s theory also noted that the faster you travel, the slower you experience time, because space and time are linked together. Scientists have proven his theory is correct.

In one experiment, scientists set two clocks to the exact same time. One clock stayed on Earth, and the other clock flew in an airplane in the direction of the Earth’s rotation. Scientists compared the two clocks after the airplane had traveled around the world. The clock on the airplane was slightly

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behind the clock on Earth, meaning the clock on the airplane traveled slower in time than one second per second.

Einstein’s theory also states that gravity curves space and time, TeamTimeCar, the DeLorean Time Machine from the movie which causes time to "Back to the Future". Photo by JMortonPhoto.com & OtoGodfrey.com. slow down. This affects our everyday lives. When using navigational maps in our cars or phones to get around town, the information comes to us from GPS (global positioning system) satellites. GPS satellites orbit Earth at 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles) per hour, a high rate of speed, which slows the satellite clocks down by a fraction of a second. However, remember how gravity curves space and time? Because GPS satellites orbit Earth high above its surface, they zoom around in weaker gravity.

(The further from Earth, the weaker the force of gravity). So, the GPS satellite clocks run faster than clocks on the ground, which would make your navigational map show you moving faster than the rate you actually are traveling on Earth. While (continued on next page)

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The Young Scientist

(continued from previous page)

that would normally mean miles of difference, scientists use mathematics to correct the time differences so they match.

You’ve experienced another kind of time travel if you’ve ever travelled long distances by airplane. Because Earth is curved and not flat like a map, an imaginary north-south line drawn through the middle of Earth at 0 degrees longitude acts as a kind of starting point for measuring distance east and west.

This line is called the prime meridian, and by international agreement, it runs through Greenwich, England. The prime meridian also sets Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). All countries measure their time zones according to UTC, and there are 24 time zones in the world. The prime meridian also establishes the International Date Line, which is at 180 degrees longitude (halfway around a 360-degree Earth). If you travel east from New York to Norway, you will go back in time, or lose time, because you’ve crossed six time zones. If you travel west from New York to San Francisco, you will move ahead in time because you will have crossed four time zones.

While we all time travel at the rate of speed of one second per second here on Earth, we each experience it differently. When taking a test, time can seem to drag. A birthday party can seem to go by in a flash. If you could time travel to a different place and time, where and when would that be?

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 37

Breast Milk Bank Helps Nurture Vulnerable Infants

By TANIA SOUSSAN After enduring fertility problems and a high-risk pregnancy, DaLin Broadwater was thankful to give birth to a healthy girl in December 2021.

She quickly had more to be thankful for and wanted to share her good fortune with others. Her daughter took to breastfeeding easily, and she was producing more than enough milk.

“I had an oversupply issue that was quite painful,” Broadwater said, adding that she pumped and filled her freezer with breast milk. “I thought, ‘I don’t believe how lucky I am to have such a sweet, healthy baby,’ and I wanted find ways to give back.”

Broadwater connected with the Human Milk Repository of New Mexico and was able to donate her excess breast milk for about a year before her supply regulated.

The milk bank, based in Albuquerque, collects donations from mothers like Broadwater and makes it available to babies in neonatal intensive care and others in need.

“The vast majority of our milk goes to premature, low birthweight, medically fragile infants,” said Executive Director Kael Marshall.

The repository also provides “bridge” milk to babies whose mothers are having trouble, perhaps because they are dehydrated or their milk just isn’t coming in right away. Babies of mothers who are incarcerated or taking drugs that prevent them from breastfeeding also can get health benefits from having breastmilk even for a short time, Marshall said.

“We want to increase breastfeeding rates, we don’t want to be a crutch,” Marshall said. “Mom’s own milk is always best.”

The repository, known as HMRNM, is the first and only mother’s milk bank in the state and is a 501c3 nonprofit accredited by the Human Milk Banking Association of North America since 2021. For more information, visit mothersmilkbanknm.org.

Plains Regional Medical Center, a Presbyterian Healthcare Services hospital in Clovis, coordinates a human milk donation and outreach center where area mothers can donate excess breast milk. The milk collected there is sent to Mothers’ Milk Bank in Colorado for distribution nationwide.

Photo courtesy of HMRNM.

Marshall and his wife, Erin, started the Human Milk Repository of New Mexico after learning about necrotizing enterocolitis, which affects the intestines and colon of newborns.

38 • New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024

Babies with the serious condition have a high death rate when fed formula but do better on breast milk. The Marshalls both were touched and wanted to help.

At the time, Marshall was a stayat-home dad of two children and ready to take on a new role that would “make a ripple” in the world and help others. Erin Marshall is involved as a board member and president.

HMRNM slowly grew and now needs to expand to accommodate increasing demand, Marshall said. The bank has 80 donors and expects to collect more than 60,000 ounces of milk in 2023, triple what it collected in its first year. That will be enough for 100,000 feedings, serving thousands of babies.

The repository has worked with the New Mexico Department of Health and Human Services to secure Medicaid coverage for milk for hospitalized babies. Private insurance does not cover human breast milk, and Medicaid does not cover it for outpatients, so the repository offers a scholarship that lowers the cost of 40 ounces of bridge milk to $150, approximately what it costs to process and supply it.

The milk bank operates in a building paid for by Erin Marshall’s law firm, but the space is becoming too small. More room is needed for additional staff, lab space and a shipping and receiving area. Marshall said it would cost $1 million to put in a new facility, and he has had trouble securing a new building.

In addition to what it charges for the milk and financial support from the law firm, the milk bank receives $25,000 a year from the Anderson Charitable Foundation in Texas.

Marshall is exploring options for a public-private partnership with the state.

Donors can drop off breast milk at HMRNM in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights. The Labor of Love program at nearby Lovelace Women’s Hospital also accepts donations. In addition, donors can drop off milk at Memorial Medical Center and Little Steps Pediatrics in Las Cruces and at San Juan Regional Medical Center in Farmington.

As a milk depot, Labor of Love maintains a giant chest freezer and offers a concierge service that allows moms to pull up in front and have someone come out to the car to collect their milk. That can be a real help to mothers who have a baby in tow.

“They bring so much milk to donate. It's astounding,” said Christina Silvis, a registered nurse who manages the Labor of Love program. “They have a variety of reasons for wanting to donate. Sometimes, they had a baby in the NICU. … it's kind of their way of giving back to support others.”

She said others have lost a baby and donating breast milk helps them work through their grief.

HMRNM takes precautions to ensure the safety of donor milk.

Potential donors are carefully screened and undergo a blood (continued on next page)

Let's Draw!

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.

Breast Milk Bank

(continued from previous page) test to make sure they don’t have an infection such as HIV or syphilis that can be passed through breast milk. Then, the donor milk is sent in batches to a California lab for bacterial screening.

About a year after her daughter was born, Broadwater’s family came down with COVID-19.

Everyone was sick, but the baby sailed through.

Kael Marshall processing donor milk. Photo courtesy of HMRNM.

“She had a runny nose twice, never ran a fever,” Broadwater said. “Because of the antibodies she got from me during the breastfeeding, she did so well.”

Silvis said the milk bank provides an even bigger immune system boost for babies. Because the bank combines milk from many donors, babies who receive it get antibodies — and the protection they provide — from many different moms.

“We love it,” she said. “Here at our NICU, they do utilize donated human breast milk because that is the best food for baby.”

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Crossword Puzzle Answers 1 3

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New Mexico Kids! • January/February 2024 • 39

C H R I S T U S S T. V I N C E N T P R I M A RY C A R E

Keeping You Healthy 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 five 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

Family Medicine Center Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors 2025 Galisteo St. 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

Pojoaque Primary Care Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors 5 Petroglyph Circle, Suite A Pojoaque, NM 87506

Entrada Contenta Health Center Offering Pediatrics, Family Medicine, and Urgent Care 5501 Herrera Dr. Santa Fe, NM 87507 Call (505) 913-DOCS (3627) to schedule your primary care appointment today.

We accept most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Presbyterian Health Plan, Aetna, Cigna, CHRISTUS Health Plan, Humana, TRICARE and United Healthcare. Please consult with your health plan.