Yule Lee, age 5
How Limiting Screen Time Changed Our Family’s Dynamic
By ALEX LAVIDGE
What if the secret to a healthier, more connected family life isn’t resisting technology, but rediscovering the simple joys of the world beyond it? When stepping into the role of a soon-to-be stepfather to my fiancée’s 11-year-old daughter, I entered a home where screens had become the dominant pastime. Her room was cluttered, her attention fragmented and her relationships were mainly digital — through Roblox, YouTube and the next viral trend. At first, the signs of strain were subtle. She was often tired, struggled to focus and her emotional responses seemed out of proportion, like a storm brewing just beneath the surface. I began to wonder how much of her turmoil was shaped by the constant flood of digital stimuli.
Research confirms these concerns. Over 60% of U.S. parents report that their children face emotional regulation issues, sleep disturbances and attention problems due to excessive screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than two hours of recreational screen time per day, but this guideline is rarely followed. In a culture where the average child now spends six to nine hours on screens, the consequences are glaring: poor sleep, reduced physical activity and emotional dysregulation.
Determined to make a change, my fiancée and I introduced limits: one hour of screen time on school nights and two on weekends. At first, there were protests. “Just five more minutes!” she’d plead. But we stood firm, carving out time for offline activities.
to figures who inspired her — like Kheris Rogers, the 15-year-old fashion designer behind the Flexin’ In My Complexion clothing line, or Reyna
a world champion in tae
do
gave her a chance to express herself thoughtfully. It wasn’t just the act of writing but the slowness of it
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The first of these new rituals was letter-writing. Encouraging her to write letters
Vallandingham,
kwon
—
What's in this issue for you!
Stories & Special Features Regular Features
2: How Limiting Screen Time Changed Our Family’s Dynamic
10: Prevent Harmful Diseases Through Infant and Childhood Immunizations
12: The Power of Music in Childhood Education
16: Summer Love: What Not to Say When Your Kids Are Having Their First Crush
28: Turning Picky Into Adventurous Eaters: What Not to Say and Do
30: Great Creativity-Boosting Apps For Kids
40: Young Historian: The Civil War
44: Young Scientist: Twins
Yule Lee, age 5
Cover Artist
6: Let's Color!
14: Let's Read!
18: Kids' Crossword
20: Albuquerque Kids! Calendar
24: Santa Fe Kids! Calendar
32: Summer Fun! Activities Directory
38: Let's Draw!
46: Crossword Solutions
My name is Yule Lee. I am five years old. I love toy cars and drawing. I always draw pictures and play with toy cars. My art teacher is my mom. I'm also very excited because I will start kindergarten in the summer.
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
Ashley Conner
Dana Benjamin
Editor
Tania Soussan
Contributing Writers: Autumn Gray, Dr. Tanni Haas, DJ Hill, Keli Holt, Dr. Pawitta Kasemsap, Aileen O’Catherine Customer
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. Locally and Women Owned. Printed by the Santa Fe New Mexican with soy-based recyclable inks.
The Publisher does not take responsibility for the accuracy or legitimacy of the advertiser’s message or that of the guest writer/ columnists or any aspect of the business operation or conduct of the advertisers in the paper.
Activities like Zip Drop, Waterfront, and Rock Climbing fill the days with FUN We use the Challenge by Choice approach to keep kids feeling confident in their activities!
Kids have the opportunity to make new friends at Day Camp. After all that
and
they’ll make lots of bonds with other campers! Day Camp is a Christcentered program. Campers will learn about God’s creation, the Bible, and God’s love for them! New in 2025! For 1517-year-olds looking for leadership development and spiritual growth, check out J-SQUAD. learn more learn more learn more
Feeling
Glorieta
How Limiting Screen Time Changed Our Family’s Dynamic
(continued from
that was restorative. It became a small but meaningful rebellion against the rapid-fire consumption of digital content, helping her reconnect with a more grounded version of herself.
Next, we embraced the slow, strategic pace of chess. Initially dismissed as “boring,” chess eventually became a cherished ritual. The game allowed for uninterrupted connection, deepening conversations and fostering patience. It wasn’t about winning but about thinking critically, being present and embracing the strategic pace of the game.
Physical activity also became central to our routine. We signed up for 5K races, and she took to running with an enthusiasm I hadn’t expected. What started as a casual endeavor turned into something more meaningful — a shared experience of mutual encouragement. She also earned her orange belt in tae kwon do, a milestone that demonstrated her growing discipline and resilience. These activities not only improved her fitness but changed how she interacted with the world. Her mood, focus and emotional health all began to improve.
The transformation was profound. The irritability that once defined our interactions began to fade. She became more present, more focused and emotionally regulated. As a family, we noticed not just a decrease in screen time but a noticeable improvement in her overall well-being. We were finally experiencing the deeper connection I had hoped for — one that wasn’t filtered through a screen.
The American Psychological Association underscores the importance of limiting screen time for healthy cognitive
development and emotional regulation. Engaging in physical activity and creative pursuits helps children build resilience, improve focus and develop emotional intelligence — qualities that have become increasingly apparent in her.
This struggle is far from unique. Across Albuquerque, parents face similar challenges. Groups like Parenting NM and Albuquerque Parents of Teens regularly hold discussions on healthy screen time boundaries. Local churches have hosted screenings of “Screenagers,” a documentary exploring the effects of excessive screen time, followed by discussions to help families navigate these issues. These resources are invaluable for parents striving to create healthier, more balanced environments for their children. Ultimately, the solution isn’t about eliminating screens altogether but about finding a thoughtful balance. By setting limits, fostering offline hobbies and nurturing real-world connections, we can help children thrive in an increasingly digital world. As Oscar Wilde once said, “The best way to make children good is to make them happy.” And perhaps the best way to make them happy is to help them rediscover the joy of connection — away from the distractions of the screen.
Alex Lavidge is a writer, entrepreneur, global traveler and health enthusiast based in Rio Rancho with a passion for exploring the intersection of culture, wellness, community and sustainability. He is currently director of membership at Sports & Wellness Highpoint, a fitness club for families in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights.
Santa Fe
5-STAR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
The most critical time in the development of your child’s brain is from zero to five years old. Thankfully, the City of Albuquerque provides a ordable 5-star childhood education in a safe environment–including no-cost early head start, Pre-K and low-cost Preschool. Turn your littler learner into a big achiever. Enroll them in a City of Albuquerque Early Childhood Program, today.
HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATION & CARE DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE CURRICULUM
CHILD-CENTERED LEARNING
SOCIAL SKILLS & BEING A PART OF A GROUP SCHOOL READINESS BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND AFTERNOON SNACKS
Prevent Harmful Diseases Through Infant and Childhood Immunizations
By DR. PAWITTA KASEMSAP Pediatrician, Optum New Mexico
As a pediatrician, I’d like to remind parents that immunizations can prevent diseases that once killed or harmed many infants and children. Without vaccines, your child is at risk for getting potentially seriously ill.
Vaccinations are a highly effective, safe and easy way to keep your family healthy. They are tested to ensure they’re safe for children to receive at recommended ages. It’s important to follow recommended vaccine schedules and stay up to date to build immunity before children are exposed to life-threatening diseases. Which vaccines does your child need?
Vaccines vary by age and the CDC strongly recommends discussing your child’s vaccine needs and schedule with their primary care physician. Make a plan to ensure your child receives all the necessary vaccines and if you miss any vaccines, catch-up vaccines are important. We can’t become complacent about infectious diseases that have the potential to come roaring back into any community.
Common vaccinations recommended for children include:
● DTaP – diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis
● Whooping cough
● HiB
● Pneumococcus
Albuquerque
● Polio
● Rotavirus
● Hepatitis A & B
● MMR – measles, mumps, rubella
● Chicken pox
● Flu
● Covid-19
● TDaP booster – tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis
● HPV - human papilloma virus
● Meningococcus ACWY
● Meningococcus B
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine is also available to pregnant women to help protect the baby against RSV for approximately six months after birth.
Plan before your visit
Before your pediatric visit, plan ahead by gathering your child’s immunization records. For young children, pack a favorite book or toy to comfort them during the vaccination. For babies, distract them with cuddles, singing, or their favorite blanket. This will make them feel more comfortable and assured that everything is fine. For older children, have a conversation. Be honest and explain that they’ll feel a brief pinch, or sting, but it only lasts a few seconds and avoid telling scary stories about shots (but tell them you are keeping them healthy).
(continued on next page)
Prevent Harmful Diseases
(continued from previous page)
What if my child has a reaction?
Mild reactions to vaccines are common and can include pain at the injection site, rash or fever. These symptoms will soon subside, but if they do linger for a few days, contact your child’s physician. If your child seems to be severely ill from a vaccine, get help immediately.
In summary, vaccinating your children protects them and others around them. There is nothing more saddening than a child who suffers or even dies from a disease or illness that is preventable. Speak to your child’s physician today.
The Power of Music in Childhood Education
By DJ HILL
“Music enhances the education of our children by helping them to make connections and broadening the depth with which they think and feel. If we are to hope for a society of culturally literate people, music must be a vital part of our children’s education.”
— Yo-Yo Ma
Ask any child development expert, and they’ll echo this sentiment with scientific data showing that music benefits mental capacity, language, memory, and emotional development.
Ivy Ross, the new Director of Education for the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, shares this belief passionately. “Listening to music creates new neural pathways and engages both hemispheres of the brain,” she says. Playing music promotes life skills like discipline, perseverance, and creative expression, while boosting fine motor skills, IQ, and academic performance.
Ross speaks from experience. A musician since childhood, she played flute, piano, guitar, sang, and started writing songs at 8. Her mission now is to place instruments into the hands of as many Santa Fe Public Schools students as possible.
While the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival hosts its summer performances over six weeks, its educational outreach has run year-round for 25 years. “We have an obligation to be more than just a six-week festival,” says Artistic Director Marc Neikrug.
The Music in Our Schools program introduces pre-K through sixth graders to live, interactive concerts twice a year. Serving about 3,000 students in 14 public schools across Northern New Mexico, the goal is to spark curiosity and a lifelong love of music.
Students ready to progress from listening to playing can join Guitars in Our Schools or Strings in Our Schools, offering free
in-school group lessons. Currently, 20 students study guitar and 44 study violin.
Middle and high school students can advance further through Dream Big, a free weekly private lesson program taught by professional musicians. Instruments offered include clarinet, flute, trumpet, guitar, voice, and more.
“There’s a clear arc to our education program,” says Ross. “From listening as little ones to private instruction later on, students begin to see music as both a lifelong enrichment and, possibly, a vocation.”
During the summer, the Young People’s Concerts further music appreciation. These free, family-friendly performances are tailored to young audiences. Music educator and conductor Oliver Prezant moderates the concerts, engaging kids with questions and commentary that make classical music accessible.
The first concert, Franck’s Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano, features Paul Huang and Orion Weiss on July 21. The second, on July 28, presents Schumann’s Piano Quintet with Weiss and the Calidore String Quartet. Both performances are at 10 a.m. in the St. Francis Auditorium at the New Mexico Museum of Art, 107 W Palace Ave. After each concert, students can meet the musicians.
Free busing is available by reservation for youth groups on a first come first served basis. For more information, visit santafechambermusic.com/education or contact Ivy Ross at 505-983-2075 x113 or ivy@sfcmf.org.
To explore music’s impact on the brain, attend Dr. Assal Habibi’s lecture, Music & Child Brain Development, on Monday, August 11, at noon, also at St. Francis Auditorium.
Santa Fe
Let's Read!
Written by Christine Laffler's 4th grade students at Bandelier Elementary
Kelcie Murphy and the Race for the Reaper's Key
Author: Erika Lewis
Illustrator: Yuta Onoda and Lesley Worrell
Publisher: Starscape Ages: 10+
In this novel, Kelcie Murphy and her friends are determined to stop the never ending war and bring peace to the lands of Winter and Summer by finally destroying the Abyss which has been separating the lands of Summer and Winter for a long time! But to make everything harder for Kelcie and her friends, a new enemy rises who was thought to be dead! A power hungry king known as King Balor rises with a new body! Will Kelcie defeat King Balor and restore her real father? Will she and her friends finally bring peace to the lands of Winter and Summer? Read to find out! This is book three from the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts series. The other books are Kelcie Murphy and the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts and Kelcie Murphy and the Hunt for the Heart of Danu. Read them first or just read this amazing book in the series!
By Alexander M., age
10
A Brush with Magic
Author: Flora Ahn
Publisher: Quirk books Ages: 8 -12
Do you like mystical stories? Well then this book is for you! Yumi is going to Seoul, Korea! But as soon as they get there Yumi’s older sister, Minji, leaves her to go out with their cousins who seem to be way better than Yumi. Yumi is now stuck at home painting and listening to her grandfather’s stories. One day, Yumi comes across an ink brush store and leaves with a new brush and a new friend. The new brush is able to summon creatures like those in the Korean fairy tales her grandfather told her! Will this end her never ending loneliness or will it cause chaos and destruction? To find out what happened to Yumi and her new friend read A Brush with Magic!
By Etta S., age 9
SUMMER DISCOVERY2025
Kid Musicians: True Tales of Childhood from Entertainers, Songwriters, and Stars
Author: Robin Stevenson
Illustrator: Allison Steinfeild
Publisher: Quirk productions ink Ages: 8+
In Kid Musicians: True Tales of Childhood from Entertainers, Songwriters, and Stars it talks about the childhoods of lots of famous people! The author organized this book into categories. Part One is Pop Superstars, Part Two is Jazz Musicians, Part Three is Songwriters, and Part Four is Rhythm and Blues. You can find these categories in the Table of Contents
and read a different story each time you pick up the book! One thing I liked about this book were the details in the stories. The author put so much detail so that you can learn a whole lot about each person. For example, did you know that Taylor Swift grew up on a Christmas tree farm? I knew she had a song about this, but never knew she grew up on one! Another example of a great detail is about Harry Styles. Did you know he was on X Factor but was eliminated? Then, they brought him and four others back and that is how they formed One Direction! I was really interested in this book and I think you will be, too! If you want to learn more about these and other musicians then I suggest reading Kid Musicians: True Tales of Childhood from Entertainers, Songwriters, and Stars.
By Delilah G., age 10
Love Is All We Need
Author & Illustrator: Krina Patel-Sage Ages: 3-6
Publisher: Crocodile Books, USA
Love Is All We Need is a book that shows you how amazing love is and how much we truly need it. In this book you discover six families that are all very different and show their love in different ways. This book has terrific illustrations and shows a lot of diverse families. This book shows how to give love, like writing notes to a family member, giving flowers to a neighbor, or giving a card you worked hard on to someone special. This book also shows how we give love on holidays like Hanukkah, Eid, Diwali, and more. The author, Krina Patel- Sage, shows lots of ways to receive and give the most important thing: Love! Because love is all we need.
By Tasi L., age 10
The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook for Kids!
Authors: David Borgenicht and Justin Heimberg
Illustrator: Wenke Kramp
Publisher: Quirk Books Ages: 8-12
This book is all about how to survive in the outdoors! There are scenarios such as how to go to the bathroom in the woods, how to deal with a jellyfish sting, and many other absurd things. My favorite parts are how to build a snow cave, how to survive in the forest, and most of all, how to deal with a snake bite! I love this book because I love to explore the wilderness and I love to go camping. I am pretty sure that you will love this amazing book, too! Yeah the outdoors can be scary, but not when you’ve got this laugh out loud survival guide! So what are you waiting for? Get out there!
By Luca S., age
9
Rio Rancho
By TANNI HAAS, PH.D.
Whether your kids are going to camp this summer, joining you and the rest of the family on a vacation trip, or just hanging around the neighborhood with friends, chances are they’ll experience their first crush. People are apt to tell you what to say or do in a situation like that, but what should you avoid saying or doing?
Here’s what the experts suggest: Don’t minimize its significance
The first and most basic thing is not to minimize the significance of the breakup or, as Katie Austin, a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in adolescents, puts it, to “dismiss how they’re feeling.” As a parent, you know that this and future crushes probably won’t lead to ever-lasting relationships, but your kids don’t necessarily understand that. To them, the crush may feel overwhelming and overshadow everything else that’s happening in their young lives. Be careful about how you react if they confide in you. Brandi Lewis, a licensed professional counselor and educator who works with families, advises parents not to say things like “there are plenty of fish in the sea” or “there’ll be other guys or girls.” Instead, listen carefully to what they’re telling you and what it means to them, and validate their experiences and feelings.
Don’t try to protect their emotions
Parents sometimes minimize the significance of a first crush because they fear that it won’t be reciprocated and they can’t
handle seeing their kids in pain. That’s understandable but not a good reason for minimizing its significance. For one, it won’t eliminate the pain. Secondly, as Dr. Kim Bell, a well-known child psychologist, says, parents are in danger of losing “touch with [their] child when [they] try to minimize it.” Simply put, your kids may decide not to talk to you about it at all.
Don’t tease them
Don’t tease them about the crush by making light of it. You may think that inserting a bit of humor will lighten the emotional load, but the exact opposite is often the case. Dr. Sharon Saline, a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of experience, says that teasing them about the crush could be interpreted that you’re devaluing their feelings. Dr. Saline advises parents to “avoid judgments of any kind. The less your [child] feels judged, the more likely they are to open up to you.” Dr. Julie de Azavedo Hanks, a well-known child psychologist and media personality, agrees that parents should never tease or make fun of their kids’ crush. Instead, she says, “talk about feelings of infatuation in a positive light, as a wonderful thing.”
Don’t offer unsolicited advice or over-talk
Take your kids’ experiences and feelings seriously, and be careful about offering unsolicited advice or over-talking. If they’re open to advice, that’s great. Share with them whatever you feel like sharing, including your own experiences with crushes. But if
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Summer Love
(continued from previous page)
that’s not the case, it’s better to stay silent. More generally, be careful about over-talking. “You may want to talk about your child’s crush every opportunity you have,” says Paul Chernyak, a licensed professional counselor and parenting coach, “but you and your child will handle the crush better if you step back a bit and let your child experience [it].” Bring it up occasionally: if you talk about it constantly, they may get embarrassed or even annoyed and may resist sharing anything further with you. Dr. Saline agrees: “Stay away from micromanaging: This is their relationship. Your main job as the parent is to be available when it hits inevitable bumps and likely runs its course.”
Don’t share confidential information with others
Finally, maintain confidentiality and don’t share any information with others that your kids have told you in confidence. Julia Simens, a family therapist in private practice, says that “one of the most dangerous things [she sees] parents do is comment on their child’s crush in front of the child to other adults - or worse - to their child’s friends.” If you do that, you’ll most certainly lose your kids’ trust, and you won’t be able to help them navigate the inevitable ups and downs of this and future crushes. Put more positively, treat your kids’ crushes with the utmost care and confidence, and your kids will respond in kind.
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College
Summer Fencing Camps for Kids and Teens
New Mexico Fencing Foundation is o�ering day camps for ages 8–13 with or without previous experience. Learn the fundamentals of Olympic fencing from nationally certi�ed fencing coaches, including footwork, bladework, safety, and competitions. Camp attendance is limited to 12. All special equipment will be provided.
Sessions: June 16–20; July 14–18; and July 28–August 1
Times: 10:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M.
Location: 1306 Clark Road, Santa Fe
Cost: $300/week (10% sibling discount).
To register, scan the QR code or visit www.gomotionapp.com/team/nm�/page/class-registration
27 Ages 5 - 16 8:30 - 3:30 pm 8:30 - 11:30am 12:30 - 3:30 pm
Santa Fe
Santa Fe
Albuquerque & Rio Rancho
Albuquerque
Kids' Crossword
Let's Party!
A
ad in
By Thess Fenner For Ages 8-15
ACROSS
2 A fence support, it is upright and set in the ground
4 Before a seed sprouts into a seedling, it lies asleep in the ground
5 A sweet film about an orphaned pig who goes home with a new family
6 Bounce the basketball
12 Humans have these (some are painted), but animals have the equivalent in claws and hooves
13 The four seasons are part of this, they circle back around
14 Cottontails, Peter is one in the Beatrix Potter's stories.
15 Monsoon weather, in drops
DOWN
1 An area of vast grassland, a plain that is home to a variety of animals
3 Sing like a bird?
4 Father
7 A painful bubble on the skin from rubbing, say from ill-fitting shoes or hiking
8 To remove the writing of a pencil
9 Otters and beavers are mammals that spend much of their life in water, it is a type of habitat
10 A sport with a black and white patterned ball, uses a netted goal to score in
11 Partly melted snow
Bilingual Learning for Every Student.
Rio Rancho Albuquerque
Jemez
Albuquerque Kids! Calendar
By AUTUMN GRAY
Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but dates, times, places and prices of events can change. So, be sure to call ahead. Events listed are child- and teen-appropriate to the best of our knowledge. As families have different ideas of “age-appropriate,” we encourage you to confirm that any activity you attend is appropriate for your child. To have your events listed for free in our next calendar, fill out the calendar form at newmexico-kids.com or send the date, time, place, cost, description of the activity, sponsoring organization, and contact phone number to kids@newmexico-kids.com. The deadline is June 9 for listings in the July/August calendar. Listings are not guaranteed due to space limits. Phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.
May
ARTS & CRAFTS
May 3, Little Spring Birds, 1-3 p.m. Fashion re-purposed paper rolls into cute, spring birdies. Scatter cheerful birds around your home or fill up a May tree. Rudolfo Anaya North Valley Library, 7704 2nd St NW B, 897-8823.
May 14, Family Paint Night, 5-8 p.m. Paint your handprint in the style of the Aboriginal people of Australia on a 12x12 canvas. All supplies provided. Ages 8+, accompanied by adults. Free for community center members. Sign up for a free community center membership at play.cabq.gov. Taylor Ranch Community Center, 4900 Kachina NW, 768-6006, ccc@cabq.gov.
May 5, Celebrate Cinco de Mayo, 4-5:30 p.m. Learn about the origins of the holiday and make crafts inspired by the day, such as papel picado and paper flowers. All materials provided. Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo Blvd NE, 888-8100.
CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS
May 3, Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Festival, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Celebrate the 28th annual Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Day with the beats of Taiko drums, the beauty of traditional Asian dances, origami, Japanese floral arrangements, and tastes of Asian-inspired cuisine from food samples provided by Talin Market and the Umami Moto Food Truck. National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank Blvd SE, 245-2137. Entry included with paid museum admission.
May 10, Railroad History and Poetry, start times of 10 a.m. and noon. Roy Lybarger tells “The Railroad History of Family Here,” followed by Robert Castillo reading poetry. Free. Wheels Museum, 1100 Second SW, 243-6269.
May 15, NHCC Summer Film Series, 7 p.m. Film screening of Zoot Suit by a Hispanic/Chicane/Latine filmmaker. Details about the film and additional participants to come. Free community event. RSVP and more info at https://my.nmculture. org/32079/43073. National Hispanic Cultural Center, Roy E. Disney Center for Performing Arts: Bank of America Theatre, 1701 4th Street SW.
May 17, Author Presentation & Book Discussion, noon. Donna Pedace will speak about her latest book, “Women Warriors: Hidden Spies WWII.” Free. Wheels Museum, 1100 Second SW, 243-6269.
May 24, An Interactive History of Communication, 10 a.m. Ron Panebouf will talk about the timeline of communication from Pony Express letters, to postcards, to telegrams, texting and back again. Attendees will be able to "send a telegram" to someone else in the audience and get a reply, quicker and easier than texting. This fun, educational interactive presentation will bring back memories and discuss how things really don’t change. Free. Wheels Museum, 1100 Second SW, 243-6269.
May 31, Author Presentation & Book Discussion, 10 a.m. Writer and teacher Michelle Adam discusses her novel, "Child of Duende,” about a young girl imbued by the spirit of the earth in Spain. Free. Wheels Museum, 1100 Second SW, 243-6269.
May 31, Author/Historian Talk, noon. John Taylor presents “Treasures of the Luna Mansion.” Free. Wheels Museum, 1100 Second SW, 243-6269.
EXHIBITS
May 3, Fiber Fair at Bosque Redondo Memorial, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner Historic Site. Bosque Redondo Memorial presents its second annual Fiber Fair in celebration of NavajoChurro sheep. Las Arañas Spinners and Weavers Guild will offer live demonstrations and hands-on activities using sheared wool from the site’s flock of sheep. The day’s festivities include sheep shearing, ranger talks, workshops, and food trucks provided by the Friends of Bosque Redondo Memorial. Admission: $7 for adults. Free to children 16 and younger, Diné, Ndé, NM foster families, NM disabled veterans, Friends of Bosque Redondo Memorial, and MNMF members. $7 adults, children under 16 free.Location: 3647 Billy the Kid Dr. 575-355-2573. https:// nmhistoricsites.org/
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
May 3, 2025 Multicultural Arts Festival, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Celebrating “Your Culture, Your Community” through local art representing a variety of artists, performers,
cultures and backgrounds. Singing Arrow Community Center, 13200 Wenonah Ave. SE, 768-4760.
May 3, Kodomo no Hi (Japanese Children's Day), 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. This Japan national holiday is celebrated in Japan on May 5, when children are respected and honored for their individual strengths, and happiness is wished upon them. Many cultural activities and demonstrations. For details, visit https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/ biopark/events/kodomo-no-hijapanese-childrens-day. ABQ Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave NW, 7646214. Free with regular admission.
May 4, La Parada Cinco de Mayo Folk Art Fest, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. A charming free event with activities for the whole family: local artisan vendors, free workshop, live music, and a mariachi-led pet parade! Don't miss the free piñata workshop for kids 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.Cost: Free! 8917 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114, 505.897.8203, https:// www.shoplaparada.com/cinco-demayo-folk-art-fest/. Email: info@ shoplaparada.com
May 4, 38th Annual Run for the Zoo, 7 a.m.-noon. Events for all ages and fitness levels, including a half marathon, timed 10K, timed 5K, 5K fitness, and a 1-mile Fun Run/Walk Participants receive a commemorative T-shirt and free zoo admission with race bibs. support the ABQ BioPark. For information and registration, visit https://runforthezoo.org/ or call 764-6280. ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th St. SW.
May 24, Heart of ABQ 6.6K Presented by New Mexico True, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Come celebrate Route 66 and the International District with family fun, music, resources, and a speedwalk! Organized by Juneteenth Renaissance Institute. Local music performances, wellness screenings and services, job & entrepreneurship opportunities, kid & youth activities, family fun, cultural activities & more. 10 a.m. speedwalk kickoff @ Highland High School parking lot. 11 a.m. community wellbeing fair & music. Cost: Free. Location: Speedwalk Kickoff @ Highland HS, Wellbeing Fair & Fun at Villa Hispanic at Expo NM Fairgrounds, 505-589-0651, HeartofABQ.com, Mandisa@myjune19th.org
LIBRARY EVENTS
Area libraries offer ongoing activities like Lego Club, book groups, Read to the Dogs, movies, craft clubs, science groups, origami adventures, chess and board game clubs, and storytimes. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries. org, placitaslibrary.org. New Mexico Kids! attempts to provide a list of special library events under appropriate category headers in this calendar listing.
May/All month, Community Puzzle Project. The Juan Tabo Library is creating a wall puzzle to display in the library and invites patrons to help design it. Pick up a puzzle piece from the circulation desk, decorate it, and return it by the end of the month. The library will assemble the puzzle and hang it for all to enjoy. 3407 Juan Tabo Blvd NE, 291-6260.
May 3, Comic Book Day, 11 a.m.1 p.m. As part of the nationwide celebration of comic books and graphic novels, attendees will be able to choose a free comic book and/or staff will lead a craft for participants to create a decoupage souvenir. While supplies last. Ages 5–17. Main Library, 501 Copper Ave NW, 768-5141. (also 2-4 p.m. Los Griegos Library, 1000 Griegos Rd NW, 761-4020.)
May 10, The Great Jellybean Taste Test, 11 a.m.-noon. Think you know your jellybean flavors? Put your sweet tooth to the test with a jellybean taste challenge. Registration required. Ages 9–12. Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo Blvd NE, 291-6260.
May 16, Family Movie Matinee: Wicked (PG), 3 p.m. Snacks provided. Runtime: 2 hours, 40 minutes. Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo Blvd NE, 888-8100.
May 20, Junior Foodies: Kids Cooking Club, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Read about and study seasonal, locallygrown foods, then do a food tasting. Learn how to prepare a simple, kid-friendly dish, too. Registration required. Ages 4-8 and their guardians. International District Library, 7601 Central Ave NE, 768-4970.
MUSIC & DANCE
May 3-4, Festival Ballet Albuquerque: Romeo & Juliet Ballet, 7 pm Saturday & 2 pm Sunday. Festival Ballet Albuquerque presents an original production of
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Romeo & Juliet, the iconic story of two star-crossed lovers by William Shakespeare and set to music by Sergei Prokofiev. National Hispanic Cultural Center, Roy E. Disney Center for Performing Arts: Albuquerque Journal Theatre, 1701 4th St SW, 724-4771. For tickets: https://my.nmculture.org/ overview/37524
May 8, No Strings Attached, 4-5 p.m. Bluegrass concert of harmony singing and Instrumentation. Free. South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway Blvd SE, 764-1742
May 17, Outpost Benefit CD/ Record/Book Fair, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Thousands of items spanning all musical genres – vinyl, CDs, DVDs, cassette tapes, music books, sheet music and more. Proceeds benefit Outpost. Free. Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.
May 17, New Mexico Square and Round Dance Association: Free Introduction to Square Dance and Round Dance, 9 a.m. Come out for an introduction to square dance or round dance as part of the New Mexico Square and Round Dance State Festival. Square dance is a folk dance where four couples form a square and follow a series of fun steps called out by a caller. Round dance is choreographed and cued ballroom steps. No experience is required! This is open to families and children over 10 years old. Free. Location: 4915 Hawkins St NE. (505) 228-1617. https://www. nmsrda.org/Flyers/NMSRDA%20 StateDance2025_14.pdf
Email: klzakovec1968@gmail.com
May 30, Duke City Square Dance Club: Free Square Dance Open House, 7 p.m. Get ready to put a twirl in your step and a smile on your face! In this lively folk dance, four couples form a square and follow a series of fun steps called out by a caller. Families and children over 10 years old are welcome – no experience needed. Free. Location: 4915 Hawkins St NE. (505) 433-7117. https://sites.google.com/ view/dukecitysquaredanceclub/ home. Email: dukecitysd0@gmail.com.
SCIENCE & NATURE
May 6, Discovery Day: Powerful Pollinators, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn to love the insects of New Mexico by investigating one of the most important roles they have: pollination! Begin with a pollinator race illustrating each step of the pollination process. Do an art activity focused on butterflies before ending the program with a beethemed book. Ages 6 and younger.
Albuquerque Kids! Calendar
San Pedro Library, 5600 Trumbull Ave SE. Free, no registration. 768-4959
May 10, Second Saturday STEM Club: Radical Rizzler Robo-Hand, 11 a.m.-noon. Build a robotic hand using household supplies. Concepts of skeletal structure, tension, contraction and expansion, and engineering will be explored. Ages 7–17. Kids under 7 are welcome with an adult. South Valley Library, 3904 Isleta Blvd SW, 877-5170.
May 10-11, Botanic Garden Bonsai Show, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. See the work of the Albuquerque Bonsai Club, and learn how to start your own bonsai artwork. In bonsai, trees and shrubs are grown in shallow trays and carefully pruned and maintained over time to resemble miniature mature trees. ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central NW, 848-7172. Included with admission.
May 17, "Day" Camp at Tin Can Alley, noon-5 p.m. Join Explora for hands-on STEM! 6110 Alameda Blvd NE.
May 17, Family Bosque Wild Guided Hike, 9-10:30 a.m. Learn about the local flora and fauna along the Bosque during a moderately strenuous 1.5-hour family-friendly hike. Take plenty of water, wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, dress for the weather. To ensure the best experience for everyone (and to keep local wildlife undisturbed), no pets are allowed. Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors Blvd. NW. Alexandra Bezner, akbezner@cabq. gov, 768-4959.
May 18, Foothills Wild Guided Hike, 8-10:30 a.m. Join the Open Space Nature Guides and Trail Watch Volunteer Stewards for a hike and discussions about the history and pre-history of the area; the flora and fauna; the geology and archaeology; the importance of water to the ecosystem; and more. Moderately strenuous. Take plenty of water, wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, dress for the weather. To ensure the best experience for everyone (and to keep local wildlife undisturbed), no pets are allowed. Tell the park attendant you are here for the Open Space program, Foothills Wild, and your entrance will be free. Meet at the Cottonwood Springs parking lot. Elena Gallegos, 7100 Tramway Blvd. NE
May 24 Sunset Hike, 7-8:30 p.m. An Open Space coordinator leads an easy to moderate journey through the Bosque to explore local flora and fauna, ecology, art, history, and more. All ages. Wear closed-toed shoes. Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors Blvd. NW. For info: Nick Bachand, nbachand@cabq.gov, 768-4955.
STORYTELLING
May 21, Beach Themed Courtyard Storytime, 3-4 p.m. Read in the courtyard about the beach. Games, crafts and a snack. Ages 0-10. Tony Hillerman Library.
JUST FOR TWEENS & TEENS
May 8, Teen/Tween Craft: Star Wars Craft, 4-5:30 p.m. Ages 9–17. Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge Dr. NE, 291-6295.
May 10, Steampunk craft class, 3-5 p.m. Make moveable Jumping Jack toys with steampunk flair. Materials provided. Registration required. Limited to 25 participants. Ages 13–17. South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway Blvd SE, 764-1742.
May 11, Mother's Day Skate Jam, 9 a.m.-noon. Family-friendly day to honor moms and skate. North Domingo Baca Skate Park, 8301 Wyoming NE. Free. Contact Will Bustos, wbustos@cabq.gov, 394-8602.
May 14, Fantasy Maps, 4-5 p.m. Make a map of your own fantasy land, then make it look ancient. Registration required. Ages 9–17. Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo Blvd NE, 291-6260.
May 29, Ready, Set, Bake! A Baking Challenge for Tweens, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Using the library’s Kitchen in a Box baking kit, six people can enjoy an evening of creating baked goods to rate, trade, and enjoy. Registration required. Ages 8-12. Central & Unser Library, 8081 Central Ave NW, 768-4320. May 31, School's Out Skate Jam, 6-10 p.m. Kick off summer break with an epic day of skating, music, and fun. Los Altos Skate Park, 9930 Lomas NE. Contact Will Bustos, wbustos@cabq.gov, 394-8602.
ESPECIALLY FOR ADULTS/ PARENTS
May 3, Grapes and All About Growing Them, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Master Gardener Bill Shen discusses how to grow grapes in New Mexico, best watering practices, how and when to prune them, and good varieties to plant. South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway Blvd SE, 7641742.
May 4, Illiterati: Gen X Book Club Meeting, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Discussion will be on Station Eleven (National Book Award Finalist) by Emily St. John Mandel. All are welcome even if you haven’t finished the book. The club talks about books related to Generation X. BYO snacks and drinks. Gen X Book Club seeks discussion above agreement, but being mean
will not be tolerated. FUSION | The Cell 700 1st St. Northwest, 766-9412.
May 7, Intro to the Outdoors: Learn to Garden, 1:30-3 p.m. Why do we garden? What do we need to garden? When? How? Where? All these questions and more will be answered by Open Space educators. Free. No registration required. Ages 18+. Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache Ave. NE. 768-4959. (also 1:30-3 p.m. May 16 at Rudolfo Anaya North Library, 7704 2nd St NW B.)
May 8, Tarde de Oro, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
An entertaining musical production that showcases New Mexico's rich and ever-evolving history, covering five eras. KiMo Theatre, 423 Central Ave. NW. Free. Doors open at 12:45 p.m. Contact Frances Lujan at 8367579 for more info.
May 9, Adult Crafternoon: Soap Making, 3-4 p.m. Pick your favorite colors and scents. All materials provided. Registration required. Ages 18+. Limited to 16. Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge Dr. NE, 291-6295.
May 14, Make Your Own Fabric Freshener Spray, 4-5 p.m. All materials provided. Registration required. Ages 18+. Tony Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache Ave NE, 291-6264.
May 16-18, Train Tracks in your Garden Show, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. (except Sunday, which ends at 3 p.m.) Enthusiasts from the New Mexico Garden Railroaders Club will demonstrate how to bring backyard gardens to life with motion and sound through the use of miniature, G-scale trains and their complementary landscape. Special displays for this will include electric trains, live steam trains, and character trains, with 10 trains running simultaneously on 2,000 feet of track. G-scale experts from the club will be on hand to answer questions and offer advice on how to get started. ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW.
May 17, A Free Gallery Talk: "How to Look at Art,” 2-4 p.m. Alice Webb will talk about the design principles of art, offering insights into how artists approach painting and sculpture. Interactive discussion. Max seating: 20 adults. Call to reserve a place. Open Space Visitor Center, East Gallery, 6500 Coors Blvd NW, 768-4951.
May 17, Early Morning Hike Series, 8-11 a.m. Guided hike through some of the most unique spaces of the Open Space Division Learn about the area’s diversity of flora and fauna as (continued on next page)
well as a rich and complex human history. Moderate-strenuous 2-hour hike. Ages 18+. Take water, snacks, and closed- toed shoes. Starts at Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors Blvd. NW, Free. Nick Bachand, OSD Coordinator, nbachand@cabq. gov, 768-4955. (also 8-11 a.m. June 21
ALSO OF INTEREST
May 2, Inpost Artspace Reception: Lost and Found, 5-7 p.m. Doors open at 4 p.m. Experimental exhibition that incorporates objects found around Albuquerque into a sculptural arrangement throughout the gallery and celebrates the tenure of Inpost curators Chandler Wigton and Lacey Chrisco from 2021-2025. The exhibition will give a new context to discarded items, reframing them as objects that have their own melody and rhythm that transcend their functional purpose. Free. Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.
May 18, Board Games & Pizza with AAGTS, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Albuquerque Association of Gifted and Talented Students AAGTS. AAGTS Board Game Days: Family fun at Slice and Dice! Enjoy pizza, games, and community. Cost: Free. Slice and Dice Pizzeria (East side): 2225 Wyoming Blvd NE, Suite C, Albuquerque. 408-515-7518, www. aagts.org, info@aagts.org
June
ARTS & CRAFTS
June 5, Pigments of Your Imagination with Explora, 10-11 a.m. Make your own paints and then create your own work of art. Free. Martha Liebert Public Library, 124 Calle Malinche, Bernalillo, 8671440. (also 3-4 pm June 12 at Erna Ferguson Library, 3700 San Mateo Blvd NE, 888-8100; 2-3 p.m. June 17 at Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow St NE; 10 a.m.-noon June 24 at East Mountain Library, 487 NM-333, Tijeras)
June 18, Family Paint Night, 5-8 p.m. Immerse yourself in bold colors and contemporary Pop Art style painting Lady Liberty on a 12x12 canvas. All supplies provided. Ages 8+ with an adult. Free for community center members. Sign up for your free community center membership at play.cabq.gov. Barelas Community Center, 801 Barelas SW, 848-1343.
LIBRARY EVENTS
Area libraries offer ongoing activities like Lego Club, book groups, Read to the Dogs, movies, craft clubs, science groups, origami
Albuquerque Kids! Calendar
adventures, chess and board game clubs, and storytimes. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries. org, placitaslibrary.org. New Mexico Kids! attempts to provide a list of special library events under appropriate category headers in this calendar listing.
ONGOING LIBRARY EVENTS
Genealogy Guide, Mondays, 5-6 p.m. Sign up for a free, introductory level, one-on-one genealogy session at Taylor Ranch Library. Explore your ancestry, discover family connections, and learn how to use databases and websites to conduct your own research. Registration required. Bring note-taking materials and/or a USB drive.
LEGO Club, 1st Wednesday of the month, 3:30 — 4:30 p.m. Join us at LEGO Club as we build and create LEGO masterpieces! All LEGOs are provided.
Music & Movement Storytime, Wednesdays, 10:15- 11:00 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. - noon. Join us for an interactive storytime where children will develop early literacy skills through music, dancing, singing, stories, and the exploration of simple musical concepts. Two identical sessions will be available for families to choose from. For ages 0–5.
Read with a Ranger, 2nd Saturday of the month, 10:30 — 11:30 a.m. Become a Reading Ranger! Join Petroglyph National Monument park rangers to read a story, work on fun activities, and earn a Reading Ranger badge. Don’t miss out on the fun! For all ages.
Short Story Club, 3rd Monday of the month, 6:00 — 7:00 p.m. Meet with us to discuss a different short story each month. Fiction and creative non-fiction. Copies of short stories are held at the front desk. No registration required. For ages 18+.
Spooky Friends Book Club, 3rd Tuesday of the month, 6:00 — 7:00 p.m. Love horror as much as we do? Join our Spooky Friends book club! On the second Tuesday of the month, we’ll discuss a different horror book. Titles will range from classic to contemporary horror. For ages 18 and up.
Sunday Afternoon Games & Puzzles, 1st Sunday of the month, 1:00 — 4:30 p.m. Join us the first Sunday afternoon of the month to put together jigsaw puzzles or play board games. Drop in and head out at any time! No registration required. For adults, but families are welcome.
Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 3-4 p.m.
Learn how to access our digital library using your own device or one of our public computers. Reservations required. Please call 505.897.8816 to register.
Wacky Wednesday, 4th Wednesday of the month, 3:30 — 4:30 p.m. Put on your lab coat and get ready for an afternoon of STEM fun! Kids will participate in different handson activities each month. All ages welcome.
MUSIC & DANCE
June 4 and 18, Free Summer Music Featuring Albuquerque Concert Band, 7-8 p.m. Take blankets, lawn chairs, picnics. Food trucks available. No glass or alcohol. East lawn of the Albuquerque Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, 768-6020.
SCIENCE & NATURE
June 7, Meet a Scientist at Explora, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Meet local scientists and learn about how STEAM is used in Albuquerque. Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072. Explora.us.
June 14, Intro to the Outdoors: Learn to Birdwatch, 7:30-9:30 a.m. One-mile guided walk with experts from the Bird Alliance of Central New Mexico to help participants learn how to identify common species and the best locations around the city to spot birds. Binoculars available to those without their own. helping participants practice their new skills. Beginning and experienced birders of all ages welcome. Seated and stationary birding will also be available. Meet at the steps in the north parking area of Tingley Beach, 1800 Tingley Drive SW. Contact Alexandra Bezner, akbezner@cabq.gov, 768-4959.
June 21, Family Nature Club: Powerful Pollinators, 10 a.m.-noon. Get a closer look at local pollinators with sweep nets and two-way viewers during a 1-mile roundtrip hike in the Bosque. All ages. Free, but registration is required at play.cabq.gov. Alexandra Bezner, akbezner@cabq.gov, 768-4959.
JUST FOR TWEENS & TEENS
June 15, Father's Day Skate Jam, 9 a.m.-noon. Family-friendly day to honor dads and skate. North Domingo Baca Skate Park, 8301 Wyoming NE. Free. Contact Will Bustos, wbustos@ cabq.gov, 394-8602.
June 21, Go Skate Day Skate Jam, 6-10 p.m. Los Altos Skate Park, 9930 Lomas NE. Contact Will Bustos, wbustos@cabq.gov, 394-8602.
ESPECIALLY FOR ADULTS/ PARENTS
June 11, Paper Quilling, 6-8 p.m. Project: Summertime Critters. Teens and adults. Materials provided. Free for community center members. Register for your free community center membership at play.cabq. gov. Thomas Bell Community Center, 3001 University SE, 848-1332. (also 6-8 p.m. June 25 at Singing Arrow Community Center, 13200 Wenonah SE, and 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. June 28 at Holiday Park Community Center, 11710 Comanche NE)
June 12, Genealogy Workshops, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Discover where you came from, where your family has been and the complex interrelating parts of your ancestral lines Free. Call 724-4771 to register or visit https://my.nmculture. org/36365/42174. National Hispanic Cultural Center, Salón Ortega, 1701 4th Street SW.
June 20, Free Enso Drawing Workshop, 2-3:30 p.m. Celebrate a peaceful Summer Solstice learning about ensos, the Zen circle, with a brief centering exercise and enso drawing practice, brushing inks on rice paper. Max: 10 adults. RSVP at 768-4951. Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors Blvd. NW, 768-4951.
CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS
Arte Para Chiquitos, 10-10:45 a.m. Second Tuesdays. Artmaking, music, movement, dance, drama, and bilingual story time cultivates creativity and self-expression through the exploration of Hispanic/ Latine arts and culture. Free. Ages 4 years and younger. Builds vocabulary and strengthens both fine-motor and gross-motor skills in a fun environment. Register at 724-4771. National Hispanic Cultural Center, Domenici Education Building,1701 4th St. SW.
Crafternoon at Explora’s X Studio, Fridays, 4-6 p.m. Make a brooch, necklace, key chain, or bracelet. Snacks provided. Free. Teens only. Explora, 1701 Mountain NW. 600-6072.
Family Art Workshops, 1-2:30 p.m. Saturdays. Different projects each week. Included with admission. No registration. Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, Elizabeth Becker, ebecker@cabq.gov, 243-7255.
Toddler Time, 9-11 a.m. Mondays at Explora! This is a reserved timeslot for the museum’s youngest visitors to explore. 1701 Mountain NW, 6006072. Explora.us.
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Indian Pueblo Cultural Dance Program, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sats and Suns. Pueblo communities celebrate seasonal cycles through prayer, song, and dance that connect ancestors, community, and traditions while honoring gifts from the Creator. Included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th St. NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org/cultural-danceprogram.
¡Vamos! 10 a.m.- noon First Saturdays. Family workshops that provide immersive experiences exploring visual arts, performing arts, history, and literary arts. Free, but $5 donations are encouraged to support the program & purchase supplies. All ages. National Hispanic Cultural Center, Domenici Education Building,1701 4th St. SW. Preregister at https://my.nmculture. org/42143/42150. 220-7928, ElenaD.Baca@dca.nm.gov.
STORYTELLING
Stories Under the Cottonwood Tree, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Third Saturday of each month. Meet in the Native Plant Garden for storytelling by Dianne Rossbach, weather permitting. Ages 5-10. Free. Rio Grande Nature Center Park, 2901 Candelaria Road NW, 344-7240, https://www.rgnc.org/index.php/ rgnc-events-calendar/
Stories & Music in the Sky, Choose from two sessions Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-noon. An award-winning early childhood education programming featuring stories, music, movement, and art produced by the ABQ Balloon Museum; for ages up to 6. Stories are brought to life, and stories and music are shared from around the world in multiple languages by incorporating books, songs, fingerplays, and movement. Free, Anderson Abruzzo ABQ International Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, visitalbuquerque.org/ event/stories-%26-music-in-thesky/55549.
Early Childhood Bilingual Storytime, Third Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Stories come to life through art, movement, and more. Ages 3 to 5 and caregivers. National Hispanic Cultural
Albuquerque Kids! Calendar
Center Library, 1701 4th St. SW, 505.724.4771. https://www.nhccnm. org/event/early-childhood-bilingualstorytime-11/
NATURE & SCIENCE
Bosque Wild Guided Hike, first Saturdays, 8-11 a.m. Moderately strenuous. Take water, wear comfortable closed-toed shoes, and dress for the weather. Free. No pets. Open Space Visitor Center, 500 Coors NW, 768-4950.
Guided Bird Walks, Saturdays and Sundays, 8:30-10 a.m. Join a volunteer naturalist and fellow birders for a guided walk through the Nature Center, including some areas normally off-limits to visitors; limited to 12. Registration required. Meet at the blind at the east end of the parking lot. $3 parking/day use fee or FRGNC or State Park pass on the dash, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, 344-0274, rgnc.org/index.php/ calendar.
JUST FOR TEENS
Teen Creative Writing Club, first Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Share work, find a group to push you past writer’s block, and find tips and tricks to hone skills. Free. Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries. events.mylibrary.digital.
Young Adult Book Club, fourth Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. Each month read a different book chosen by club members. Talk and eat snacks, enjoy crafts and other activities related to the book that was read. Free, ages 12-18, Loma Colorado Main Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.events. mylibrary.digital.
ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS
Colcha Community Stitch A-long, 9:30 a.m. 4th Tuesdays. All levels of experience. Guided by award-winning artist Annette Gutierrez-Turk. Free. Register monthly at https://my.nmculture. org/29977/41758 to attend in person or via Zoom. For questions, contact Annette.Lujan@dca.nm.gov or call 724-4771. National Hispanic Cultural Center, Domenici Education Building, 1701 4th St. SW.
Happy Arte Hour, 6-8 p.m. First Thursdays. Artistic fun in a relaxed social setting. Drinks and snacks will be available to purchase. Chance for friends to hang out, a unique date night option, or come solo and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. Free but $5+ donations are encouraged to support the artists and purchase supplies. Register by contacting Elena Baca at 246-2261 or elenad.baca@dca.nm.gov. National Hispanic Cultural Center, Pete V. Domenici Education Building, 1701 4th St. SW.
Stitch Night, 5-7 p.m. Second Wednesdays. Take knitting, crocheting, weaving, cross stitch, or fiber art projects you’re working on, and join fellow crafters. Basic crochet and knitting materials will be on hand for an impromptu demonstration. Free. Register at https://my.nmculture. org/30259/42679. National Hispanic Cultural Center Conference Room, The History and Literary Arts building, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771.
ALSO OF INTEREST
June 15, Board Games & Pizza with AAGTS, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Albuquerque Association of Gifted and Talented Students AAGTS. AAGTS Board Game Days: Family fun at Slice and Dice! Enjoy pizza, games, and community. Cost: Free. Slice and Dice Pizzeria (West Side): 5720 McMahon Blvd NW Suite B) Albuquerque, 408-515-7518, www. aagts.org, info@aagts.org
FREE ADMISSION
ABQ Museum, Tuesday-Sunday, ages 3 and under; members with ID; first Wednesdays; Sundays from 9 a.m.-1p.m., 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov/artsculture/ albuquerque-museum/plan-yourvisit/admission-ticketing.
Balloon Museum, Sundays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; first Fridays; ages 5 and under; Museum Foundation Members; and ICOM, AAM and NMAM members, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, 768-6020, cabq.gov/artsculture/ balloonmuseum/plan-your-visit/ admission-online-ticketings.
Coronado Historic Site, Wednesday-
Monday,10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free 16 and under; first Sundays NM residents; NM residents 60 years and older with ID admitted free every Wednesday; Museum of New Mexico Foundation members, Friends of Coronado and Jemez members, Native/Tribal affiliations, disabled veterans, and foster families all foster families; 485 Kuaua Rd, Bernalillo, 867-5351, nmhistoricsites.org/coronado.
Explora, Monday-Sunday, under age 1; members; 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/visitorinformation.
Jemez Historic Site, WednesdaySunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free 16 and under; first Sundays NM residents; Museum of New Mexico Foundation members, Friends of Coronado and Jemez members, Native/Tribal affiliations, disabled veterans, and foster families; 18160 NM-4, Jemez Springs, 829-3530, nmhistoricsites. org/jemez.
National Hispanic Cultural Center Visual Arts Museum, TuesdaySunday, free for ages 16 and under; members; all NM foster families; first Sundays NM residents; NM residents 60+ with ID on Wednesdays; active military and reservists, and up to five family members; NHCC Foundation Members, foster parents and children in the custody of foster parents, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org/visit/hours-admission.
National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, Monday-Sunday, under age 5, 601 Eubank SE, 5690865, nuclearmuseum.org/visit.
NM Museum of Natural History and Science, Wednesday-Monday, ages 2 and under; NMMNHS Members must reserve their free tickets ahead of time by calling the membership desk at 505.841.2851,1801 Mountain NW, nmnaturalhistory.org. State Parks Free Entrance Days are listed at nps.gov/planyourvisit/feefree-parks-state.htm.
Tingley Beach Recreational Area is free every day, anglers 12 and older need a valid NM fishing license; ponds are restocked approximately every 3-4 weeks, 1800 Tingley SW, cabq.gov/ artsculture/biopark/tingley.
Santa Fe Kids! Calendar
By AUTUMN GRAY
Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but dates, times, places, and prices of events can change. So, be sure to call ahead. Events listed are child- and teen-appropriate to the best of our knowledge. As families have different ideas of “age-appropriate,” we encourage you to confirm that any activity you attend is appropriate for your child. To have your events listed for free in our next calendar, fill out the calendar form at newmexico-kids.com, or send the date, time, place, cost, description of the activity, sponsoring organization, and contact phone number to kids@newmexico-kids.com. The deadline is June 9 for listings in the July/August calendar. Listings are not guaranteed due to space limits. Phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.
May
ARTS & CRAFTS
May 2, First Friday: Sketching & Architecture, 5-6:30 p.m. Discover the history and influences behind the New Mexico Museum of Art’s iconic Spanish Pueblo Revival style while sketching this treasured building. Materials provided. Free. New Mexico Museum of Art, Plaza Building, 107 West Palace Ave., 476-5063, https:// www.nmartmuseum.org/events/firstfriday-sketching-and-architecture/
May 4, Family Art Making, 10 a.m.noon. Art-making session with mixed media canvases. Light snacks. Free. Vladem Contemporary, 404 Montezuma Ave., 476.5062, https:// www.nmartmuseum.org/events/ family-art-making-9/
May 31, Final Friday: Little Canvases, 5-6:30 p.m. Make art at the Vladem Contemporary. Visit the exhibition Off Center: New Mexico Art, 1970-2000, and get inspired to create a small mixed media piece. Materials provided. 404 Montezuma Ave., 476-5062.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
May 31-August 28, Santa Fe Summer Scene 2025. Lensic 360 and the Lensic Performing Arts Center present 50+ free concerts and movies at the Santa Fe Plaza, Santa Fe Railyard and Santa Fe Railyard Park, Reunity Resources Park, and SWAN Park. This summer features a diverse, world-class lineup of renowned national artists and the brightest of New Mexico’s local musicians, plus seven free movies. View schedule: https://santafe.com/ santa-fe-summer-scene/ or for more details: https://lensic360.org/page/ summer-scene
SCIENCE & NATURE
May 24, Come Build with Us, 2-4 p.m. Use your imagination to build your newest creation during this STEM activity. Main Library Media Room, 145 Washington Ave, 955-6781.
ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS
May 10, Folk Art Flea Spring Donation Days, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. FOFA is seeking folk art donations of gently used textiles, clothing, ceramics, masks, wood carvings, paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and folk art décor items to be sold at the 2025 Folk Art Flea. Drive to the back of the Museum of International Folk Art parking lot. If you are unable to make one of the donation days, call 505.476.1201 to arrange pickup or drop off information. Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1204.
ALSO OF INTEREST
May 11, Family Day with Library Storytime: Flower Power, 10:30am2:30pm. Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum’s Art to G.O. truck, which will be handing out tulip bouquets to mothers and families. Additionally, explore Georgia O’Keeffe’s love of flowers through a variety of hands-on art making, storytime, and creative activities. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson St., 946-1000.
LIBRARY EVENTS
Area libraries offer ongoing activities like Bilingual Books and Babies, Paws and Pages, Read to a Pup!, Game Time, chess clubs, after-school clubs, storytimes, and movies. For adults, ongoing activities include yoga and meditation, guitar ensembles and dulcimer groups, book clubs, movies, and knitting clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: https:// santafe.librarycalendar.com/. New Mexico Kids! attempts to provide a list of special library events under appropriate category headers in this calendar listing.
May 8, Uni Drums, 6-7 p.m. Immerse yourself in the timeless art of handdrumming, proven to support mental, physical, and social well-being. Participants are encouraged to take their own instruments: drums, shakers, flutes, etc., as well as water, a cushion, jacket, or even a blanket. Ear protection will be provided, but for sensitive individuals earmuffs or earplugs are recommended. All ages, families and seniors. Limited space. Registration required. Main Library Community Room, 145 Washington Ave, 955-6781. (also 6-7 p.m. May 15, May 22, 29)
May 17, Color Our World: A Celebration with the Children’s Theatre Festival & Santa Fe Public Library, 1-4 p.m. Live theater, musical performances, arts & crafts, face painting, and a chance to sign up for Santa Fe Public Library’s free Summer Reading Program. Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar Drive, 955-2820.
June
ARTS & CRAFTS
June 28, Pride Create Station, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The New Mexico Museum of Art brings its Create Station! to the Pride celebration on the Plaza. Stop by the east side of the Plaza building, and join in art activities for all ages.
CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS
June 7, The Fabulous Folk Art Flea, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Featuring hundreds of curated folk art pieces from collectors and artists around the world. The donated art benefits educational programs and exhibitions at the Museum of International Folk Art, through the nonprofit Museum of New Mexico Foundation. Santa Fe County Fairgrounds, 3229 Rodeo Road. June 21, Mucha Community Day, 1-5 p.m. Opening day of Timeless Mucha: The Magic of Line in which attendees can explore the impact of Alphonse Mucha on art nouveau and beyond - from the Grateful Dead, to comic books, to Japanese manga. Free. Vladem Contemporary, 404 Montezuma Ave., 476-5062.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
June 28, Pride on the Plaza, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Human Rights Alliance hosts this annual parade and celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Downtown Santa Fe. Free. All ages. https:// hrasantafe.org/pride-2025/
Now through August 28, Santa Fe Summer Scene 2025. Lensic 360 and the Lensic Performing Arts Center present 50+ free concerts and movies at the Santa Fe Plaza, Santa Fe Railyard and Santa Fe Railyard Park, Reunity Resources Park, and SWAN Park. This summer features a diverse, worldclass lineup of renowned national artists and the brightest of New Mexico’s local musicians, plus seven free movies. View schedule: https:// santafe.com/santa-fe-summer-scene/ or for more details: https://lensic360. org/page/summer-scene
MUSIC & DANCE
June 26, Uni Drums, 6-7 p.m. Immerse yourself in the timeless art of hand-drumming, proven to support mental, physical, and social wellbeing. Participants are encouraged to take their own instruments: drums, shakers, flutes, etc., as well as water, a cushion, jacket, or even a blanket. Ear protection will be provided, but for sensitive individuals earmuffs or earplugs are recommended. All ages, families and seniors. Limited space. Registration required. Main Library Community Room, 145 Washington Ave, 955-6781.
SCIENCE & NATURE
June 5, Weed Walk, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. DesertArtLAB guides a walk through the Railyard Park Conservancy to problematize/decolonize our perception of “weeds.” Participants
can contribute to the production of a participatory map that will be on display at the Vladem Contemporary. Meet in the lobby of Vladem, 404 Montezuma Ave., 476-5062.
STORYTELLING
June 10, International Storytime Folk Art Market Storytime Special, 10:30-11:30 am. Storytime followed by a hands-on craft geared toward preschoolers and kindergarteners, though kids of all ages are welcome. Southside Library Community Room, 6599 Jaguar Drive, 955-2820; La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862; Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837.
ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS
June 7, Cactus Swap, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. DesertArtLAB, the artists-in-residence at the New Mexico Museum of Art Vladem Contemporary, encourages people to take clippings and other indigenous plants of the region to share/exchange. DesertArtLAB will also be giving away free cholla clippings. Railyard Artisan Market, 476-5062.
June 27, Departures that Brought Us Here: Window Box Artist Talk with Apolo Gomez, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Gomez’s installation will highlight queer movements and celebrate the history of LGBTQ+ advocacy. Apolo will also discuss his work on Tracing Queer Chicano Histories, a zine that documents the history of the LGBTQ+ community in the Southwest. Vladem Contemporary, 404 Montezuma Ave., 476-5062.
LIBRARY EVENTS
Area libraries offer ongoing activities like Bilingual Books and Babies, Paws and Pages, Read to a Pup!, Game Time, chess clubs, after-school clubs, storytimes, and movies. For adults, ongoing activities include yoga and meditation, guitar ensembles, book clubs, movies, and knitting clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: santafe.librarycalendar. com/events, vglibrary.org. New Mexico Kids! attempts to provide a list of special library events under appropriate category headers in this calendar listing.
June 7, Student World Awards Film Screenings, 1-4 pm. The Student World Awards is an international competition for short films, documentaries, animated movies, and music videos, showcasing the best student filmmaking from around the world. The program will feature short films, from 2 to 20 minutes, and will be created by students from schools and universities worldwide. Screenings will take place in two or more blocks.
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More information film line-up to come. Southside Library Community Room, 6599 Jaguar Drive, 955-2820.
June 25, Rocky Mountain Puppets – Prism Break, 2-2:45 pm. Puppet performance about a group of friends who stumble across a seemingly normal kaleidoscope, only to discover it has the power to transport them to various alternate dimensions. Southside Library Community Room, 6599 Jaguar Drive, 955-2820. (also 10:30-11:15 a.m. June 26 at Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, and 2-2:45 p.m. June 26 at La Farge Library.
ARTS & CRAFTS
Create with O’Keeffe, 3:30-4:30 p.m. on second, third, and fourth Thursdays of every month at libraries around Santa Fe. Free. For more information, contact learning@okeeffemuseum.org.
Friday Afternoon Art, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Children and tweens. Southside Library Café Room, 6599 Jaguar Drive, 955-2820.
CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS
Animal Meet & Greet, Thursdays, 12:30-1 p.m. Learn fun facts about the museum pets and see them eat their lunch. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org/events.
Can You Dig It Archaeological Program, select Wednesdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. See website for schedule. Hands-on archaeology dig for kids and families provides chance to learn about archaeology and New Mexico history by digging in a simulated archaeology pit. Ages 5 and older. Parent supervision required. Included with admission. Free to members and children 12 and under. NM residents get free admission Wednesdays, with a valid ID. El Rancho de Las Golondrinas, 334 Los Pinos Road, 471-2261, https://golondrinas. org/event/.
Family Day, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. second Sundays. Take the whole family to explore the connections between shapes, abstraction, music, and self-expression. Monthly themes vary. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson St., 946-1000, https://www. okeeffemuseum.org/events/?_event_ type=family-day.
Fine Art Friday, 2-4 p.m. Fridays. Explore the arts with special guests and hands-on activities. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 9898359, santafechildrensmuseum.org/ events.
Seeds & Sprouts, Thursdays, 10:3011:30 a.m. Kids explore nature from fun in the backyard, to inhouse programming. Included with
Santa Fe Kids! Calendar
admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 9898359, santafechildrensmuseum.org/ events.
Wee Wednesdays, Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story time and play. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org/events.
LIBRARY EVENTS
Area Libraries offer activities like Audubon Storytime, Bilingual Books and Babies, Paws and Pages, Read to a Pup!, Game Time, chess clubs, after-school clubs, story times, movies, and knitting clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: santafe.librarycalendar.com/events and vglibrary.org. The following are just some of the ongoing events at libraries.
Creative Writing, First and third Tuesdays, 6-7:45 p.m. Each drop-in workshop will begin with a writers' check-in as well as optional writing exercises, prompts and an occasional visit from local authors. Work on personal writing projects with time reserved for sharing work and getting feedback if desired. All experience levels and genres. Main Library Pick Room, 145 Washington, 955-6837.
MUSIC & DANCE
Caregiver and Tot Creative Movement, 10:15 a.m. 1st and 3rd Saturdays. A gentle introductory class for children and their caregiver with discovery of dance through play, that sparks a lifelong appreciation for movement arts. Free. Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
Kids Sing Along with Queen Bee, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Wednesdays. Queen Bee leads ages 0-6 through a variety of engaging music games and singalongs, from classics like ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star’ to energetic originals like ‘Dinosaurs Don’t Roar Anymore.’ Meets in Community Room or grassy slope, depending on weather. Free, but donations welcome. Railyard Park Conservancy, 805 Early Street, 204 B, 316 3596, https://railyardpark. org/events/.
SCIENCE & NATURE
Science Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. Fun, educational experiments and projects with scientists and STEAM instructors. Included with admission. Santa Fe Children's Museum, 989-8359, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, santafechildrensmuseum.org/events.
STORYTELLING
Elements of Art: Story Time at the New Mexico Museum of Art Library, Every other Monday, 10:30 a.m. Ages
3-5 and their caregivers learn about a basic element of art though story, song, and craft. Led by Cyndi Korzec, an early childhood educator, this introduces children to concepts such as color, line, and form. Free. New Mexico Museum of Art, 107 West Palace Avenue, 476-5063.
Toddler Time at Many Mothers, 11:30 a.m.-noon first Mondays. Program of rhymes, songs, movement, and stories builds on familiar experiences to introduce new vocabulary and sounds, foster early literacy. Ages 1-3. Many Mothers, 4001 Office Ct Drive, Ste. 207, 983-5984, trpaisley@santafenm.gov
Elements of Art: Story Time, every other Monday at 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages 3-5 learn about a basic element of art though story, song, and craft. Introduces children to concepts such as color, line, and form. New Mexico Museum of Art Library, Plaza Building, 107 West Palace Ave., 476.5063, https://www.nmartmuseum.org/ events/storytime/.
Bilingual Books and Babies, 10-10:30 a.m. The power of music and song is used as an introduction to language in this program for babies and toddlers. Free: Wednesdays, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6781; Fridays: La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 9554862; Saturdays: Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events/upcoming.
Children’s Storytime and Craft, 10:3011:30 a.m. 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.
Pajama Story Time / Hora Del Cuento En Pijama, Thursdays, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. A cozy, evening story time that includes a snack and a craft. Preschool. Southside Library Community Room, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 9552820, santafe.librarycalendar.com/ events.
GAMES & CLUBS
Youth Chess Club, Wednesdays, 5:45 p.m. 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.
JUST FOR TWEENS & TEENS
Tweens Create! Third Fridays. 3:30 p.m. Crafts and activities. Ages 9-12. Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar Drive, 955-2820.
Teen Lounge, every Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. A safe space for teens to
decompress after school with art supplies, homework tables, laptops and Wi-Fi, board games, tea, and snacks. La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862.
ALSO OF INTEREST
Baby and Toddler Play Hour, Second Saturdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free, unstructured play where children can explore and interact with other children and new educational toys. Learn and make social connections together with your toddler. Main Library Community Room, 145 Washington, 955-6781, santafe. librarycalendar.com/events.
Wednesdays, Circus ExplorationAfterschool Fools Program, Wise Fool New Mexico, 3:45 - 5:15pm Dive into the exciting world of circus arts with Wise Fool's Circus Exploration 14-week program for ages 7-12. Perfect for beginners, no prior experience is necessary. Each class begins with a check-in, followed by a game or warmup to get everyone moving. Each week, students will focus on a new circus discipline, including stilt-walking, aerial fabric, trapeze, acrobalance, and clowning, rotating through each discipline at least twice.
Spring programming runs Feb 19 - May 28. youth@wisefoolnm.org
One of our staff can teach in ASL and we can provide interpretation upon request. Drop-in attendance welcome at $33 per class. If you'd like to enroll for the remainder of the session through May 28, we can offer pro-rated tuition at $27/class. Cost: $23. Santa Fe Children's Museim - 1050 Old Pecos Trail, Santa Fe NM. 505-992-2588, wisefoolnewmexico.org, youth@ wisefoolnm.org.
FREE ADMISSION
Though many museums and cultural centers offer free admission days, restrictions may apply during hightraffic dates like Balloon Fiesta, please call before you visit to verify the dates of your visit are free admission days. To see a full list of hours and prices, visit newmexicoculture.org/visit/ hours-and-admission-prices.
IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Children (under 16), members, Native and Indigenous peoples, and United States military veterans, daily; free to all, Fridays. 83 Avan Nu Po, 983-8900, iaia. edu/free-fridays-at-the-iaia-museumof-contemporary-native-arts.
Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Open every day 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (May through October). NM foster families (continued on next page)
and children 16 and under, daily; NM residents, first Sunday of each month; NM seniors 60+ with ID, Wednesdays. 710-708 Camino Lejo, 476-1269, indianartsandculture.org/hours.
Museum of International Folk Art, Open every day 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (May through October). NM foster families and children 16 and under, daily; NM residents, first Sunday of each month; NM seniors 60+ with ID, Wednesdays. 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1204, moifa.org/visit/hoursadmission.html.
Santa Fe Kids! Calendar
NM History Museum, Open every day 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (May through October). NM foster families and children 16 and under, daily; NM residents, first Sunday of each month; NM seniors 60+ with ID, Wednesdays. 113 Lincoln, 476-5200, nmhistorymuseum.org/ visit/hours-and-admission.html.
NM Museum of Art: Open every day 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (May through October). NM foster families and children 16 and under, daily; NM residents, first Sunday of each month; NM seniors 60+ with ID, Wednesdays. 107 W. Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org/ visit.
Santa Fe Botanical Garden, MondaySunday, ages 3 and under, members, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org/visit.
Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 4-6 p.m. Thursdays, free to all, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8356, santafechildrensmuseum.org/explore/ plan-your-visit.
Escuela Pública Autónoma
Sofia, 4
Albuquerque
SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SERVICES
Committed to providing quality pediatric services to our local communities.
INSURANCE ACCEPTED
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Activities of Daily Living, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, Sensory Integration, Feeding, Play, Visual Perceptual / Visual Motor
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY
Articulation and speech sound disorders, Augmentative and alternative communication, Social and pragmatic language, Dysphagia, Fluency, Expressive and Receptive Language, Aphasia
Turning Picky Into Adventurous Eaters: What Not to Say and
Do
By TANNI HAAS, PH.D.
May 4 is National Fitness Day, a great opportunity to consider what parents can do to turn their kids from picky into adventurous eaters. Picky eaters are common. Most kids go through a picky eating phase from age 2 – 4, and many continue to be picky eaters well into their teens. That doesn’t make it any less stressful for parents. It’s hard to come up with balanced, healthy meals for kids who refuse to eat more than a few foods. Luckily, there’s much you can say and do to broaden your kids’ palates. But turning picky into adventurous eaters is as much about what you don’t say and do. Here’s what the experts suggest:
Don’t demand or threaten your kids to eat
If you want your kids to eat a variety of foods, one of the worst things you can do is to force it on them. “Demanding or threatening your child can be frustrating and lead to arguments,” says clinical child psychologist Dr. Britt Evans, “which can lead to negative associations with certain foods.” One large-scale study found that kids who were pressured to eat certain foods as toddlers were significantly picker eaters by the time they reached school-age. Other studies show that pressuring kids to eat certain foods leads to less consumption of fruits and vegetables, and that negative attitudes towards food last into adulthood. Instead, says Rachel Ehmke of the Child Mind Institute, “try to respect your child’s preferences while gently encouraging them to try new foods.” Pediatric occupational therapist Alisha Grogan, agrees. She suggests that parents simply put the desired foods in front of their kids and then allow them to decide whether and how much they’d like to eat. “If you think about it,” Ms. Grogan says, “they’re really in control of this anyway - and they know it!”
Don’t use food as a reward
A common refrain heard across dinner tables is: “If you eat your vegetables, you’ll get dessert.” Intuitively, it may seem logical to use foods that your kids want, like dessert, as a reward for getting them to eat what you really want them to eat: vegetables. But this strategy is likely to backfire. “Asking your child to eat nonpreferred foods like vegetables to gain access to a ‘reward’ food like dessert might work in the short term,” Dr. Evans says, “but is counterproductive in the long term because it can enforce the idea that certain foods (e.g., sweets) are inherently ‘better’ than others (e.g., veggies).” Amy McCready, the founder of Positive Parenting Solutions, a major parenting site, puts is even more pointedly: “why should they get to eat something bad for doing something good?” Simply put, your kids will learn to think of dessert and other sweet foods as inherently more enjoyable than healthier foods like fruits and vegetables. Instead, try to make your kids think of healthy foods as enjoyable in their own right.
Don’t ban sweets
This doesn’t mean that you should ban sweets or other “bad” foods altogether. Banning sweets only make them more exciting which can lead to overindulging and abuse. Instead, says Dr. Dina Rose, a sociologist and author of It’s Not About The Broccoli, discuss with your kids how often and how much candy they can eat.
Don’t label your kids
Your kids may be picky eaters but don’t call them that to their face or behind their backs to others. “If you have a picky eater and you’ve made that clear with phrases like, ‘Oh, she doesn’t eat that,’ or ‘He’s so picky – he’ll only eat mac and cheese, guess what?” Ms. McCready asks. “Your child will ‘not eat that’ and
‘only eat mac and cheese.’” You’re effectively encouraging your kids to conform to the very behavior that you’re criticizing. As Ms. McCready puts it, “children own the labels you bestow upon them.”
Using positive labels can also be problematic. “Think about it,” says Ms. McCready. “When you label one child the ‘good eater,’ his sibling can only assume he’s the ‘bad eater’ setting up an environment for sibling rivalry to thrive. The bottom line is this: avoid labels, positive or negative.”
Don’t make a separate meal
Your kids may not like what’s for dinner but that doesn’t mean that you should make a separate meal just for them. “This isn’t Mom’s 24-Hour Diner,” as clinical child psychologist Dr. Rachel Busman puts it. Instead, says Sally Sampson, author of The Picky Eater Project, offer some “boring” alternatives that make them more likely to at least try what’s for dinner.
Don’t patronize them
When your kids finally decide to try a new food, resist the urge to say, “I told you that you’d like it,” or some variation thereof. “Well-meaning parents believe they’re being supportive and don’t realize that it’s patronizing and not a helpful comment,” says Amy Morin, a licensed clinical social worker with expertise in kids and nutrition. Instead, she suggests, “let the child make the decision to taste it at their own pace and pause, letting them tell you how they felt about it. If they don’t like the taste, you can praise them for trying it by saying ‘Wow, you’re very brave! It’s not easy to try new things, but you did it!’”
Try, try – and try again
It isn’t easy to turn to a picky eater into an adventurous one but it can be done if you’re careful about what you say – and don’t say.
As Ms. Morin puts it, “Raising an adventurous eater means raising a child who feels confident in and is given space to make decisions about what goes into their body.”
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
Los Alamos
Great Creativity-Boosting Apps For Kids
By TANNI HAAS, PH.D.
May 30 is National Creativity Day, a great occasion to inspire your kids to become more creative. Here are some of the very best creativity-boosting apps for kids. They’re all completely free, so encourage your kids to download an app – or three!
Color Band
(Available at: Apple Appstore; Age range: 5-8)
Color Band introduces young kids to the fun of making music while at the same time encourages them to draw. It has 80 pre-recorded instruments and sound effects that are represented by different colors. Some colors contain multiple sound effects, while others include entire scales or chords. Using different colors to draw a picture, they create unique musical compositions, which they can play back by waving their hands in front of the screen.
Let’s Create: Pottery
(Available at: Apple Appstore, Google Play; Age range: 9-18)
Let’s Create: Pottery teaches kids to sculpt pottery and make beautiful pieces of artwork without the messiness of real clay. They can choose to copy pre-existing pieces from different cultures, or create their own pottery from scratch. While the virtual clay is spinning on the pottery wheel, kids mold it by tapping or pressing lightly on the screen. Once they’re done, they get to fire their pottery in the kiln and then decorate their creations with colors and patterns.
Paper
(Available: Apple Appstore; Age range: 13-18)
Paper is great for kids who love to draw. It resembles a digital notebook and has various tools for outlining, sketching and
coloring drawings. The app makes it easy to rearrange objects on the page. Kids can also import photos and incorporate them into their drawings.
Plum's Creaturizer
(Available at: Apple Appstore; Age range: 5-8)
Plum’s Creaturizer will get your kids interested in photography. Developed by PBS Kids, this award-winning app lets kids create their own colorful creatures by combining different body parts, and then encourages them to photograph these creatures in four different “habitats.” The photos can be combined into slideshows depicting a day in the life of their creations.
Story Dice – Story Telling
(Available at: Apple Appstore; Age range: 5-18)
Story Dice – Story Telling is sure to get the creative juices flowing. This app has 40 virtual dice, each with six images from different categories, for a total of 240 images. Kids shake their devices to roll the dice and create stories that connect all the images. Encourage your kids to use this app with their friends to see who comes up with the most suspenseful or fun stories.
Toontastic 3D
(Available at: Apple Appstore, Google Play; Age range: 5-12)
Toontastic 3D is an app that lets you make your own cartoons. It includes various story outlines, scenes as well as dozens of colorful characters. Kids can either use those characters or create their own with simple drawing tools, press “record” and then move characters around and narrate the story with their own voice recording. They can add a musical score, and put all the pieces together in a single 3D cartoon.
Summer Fun! Activities Directory
Residential Camps & Overnight Expeditions
Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center - Family Week, 280 Private Drive 1708, Abiquiu, NM 87510. Phone: (505) 685-1000; Email: info@ghostranch.org; Website: https://www.ghostranch.org/program/g25060600/; Camp Contact: Robin Keck, Experiences Manager. Do you like mysteries? Join a scavenger hunt. Prefer a musical? We have singing and dancing. Action-adventure more your speed? Try hiking or canoeing. And for sports fans, we have swimming, basketball, a ga-ga pit and 9-square in the Air, frisbee, and kickball. Whatever option you choose, we have it. Spend the first part of July at Ghost Ranch and participate in drawing and dancing, jewelry and journaling, fused glass and games. Enjoy the red rocks, attend morning worship, create unique art, tell stories, share laughter and make countless memories.
Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails - Summer Overnight and Day Camps, 4000 Jefferson Plaza NE, ABQ, NM 87109. Phone: 505-343-1040; Website: www. nmgirlscouts.org; Contact: Katie Mascarenas – Outdoor Program and Camp Manager. Get ready for the ultimate summer adventure with Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails! Whether you’re a future archery pro, a horseback-riding queen, or an aspiring art guru, we've got something for YOU. Our camps are ALL about making new friends, trying new things, and having a blast in the great outdoors! From canoeing and hiking to arts and theater, the possibilities are endless. And guess what? You don’t even have to be a Girl Scout to join the fun – camp is open to girls, ages 6-17, adults, and families!
Camp runs from June 6th to July 27th, and you can choose your adventure! Here’s the scoop on all the options:
• Troop & Family Camps: Bring your whole crew and have fun together starting at $75 per person!
• Day Camps: Dive into action starting at $200 per camper – perfect for day-time adventurers! Day camps are available in Albuquerque, Clovis, and Santa Fe!
• Overnight Adventures: Camp out under the stars for an unforgettable experience starting at $600 per camper in the Jemez Mountains or Angel Fire! Check out the full scoop on all the fun and sign up at www.nmgirlscouts.org. Ready to make this summer legendary? We are!
Hummingbird Music Camp, 104 Hummingbird Rd., Jemez Springs, NM 87025. Phone: 575-829-3060. Email: hmcjemez@gmail.com. Ages: 8-14. Hummingbird Music Camp, nestled by the river in the Jemez Mountains, is a family owned business celebrating 67 years of nurturing a love for fine arts in the youth of NM. This safe and lovingly structured social environment provides a home away from home in the fresh mountain air where children are occupied with friends, activities and fine arts enrichment (not electronics). At Hummingbird, we offer three camps: Music, Art and Chess. Music: Music camp is wonderful for all campers, from those who do not have any music experience, to those who are advanced. Campers receive daily private lessons from professional teachers, participate in large group ensembles, have daily designated practice time and conclude the week with multiple concert experiences. Hummingbird offers band, orchestra, guitar, piano and voice. Art: Art campers expand their creativity by undertaking an assortment of projects with diverse media. Campers work with experienced art teachers who inspire ingenuity and creativity. Campers get to enjoy art classes in a variety of inspiring environments. All skill levels are welcome! Chess: Chess campers, from beginning to advanced, receive expert instruction and strategies that help them improve their game. Campers benefit from one-on-one chess lessons and play matches in a fun filled environment. With a tournament at the end of the week, chess campers get to see how much their skills have improved! Hummingbird gives children the opportunity to be children. We balance the focus of music, art or chess with fun filled activities including, campfires with silly songs, storytelling, water walking, fishing, skits, sleeping under the stars, a moonlight hike to the waterfall, a dance and more! Visit hummingbirdmusiccamp.com.
Day Programs
Santa Fe & Surrounding Areas
Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails - Day Camps, Phone: 505-343-1040; Website: www.nmgirlscouts.org; Contact: Katie Mascarenas – Outdoor Program and Camp Manager. Get ready for the ultimate summer adventure with Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails! Whether you’re a future archery pro, a horseback-riding queen, or an aspiring art guru, we've got something for YOU. Our camps are ALL about making new friends, trying new things, and having a blast in the great outdoors! From canoeing and hiking to arts and theater, the possibilities are endless. And guess what? You don’t even have to be a Girl Scout to join the fun – camp is open to girls, ages 6-17, adults, and families! Camp runs from June 6th to July 27th, and you can choose your adventure! Here’s the scoop on all the options:
• Troop & Family Camps: Bring your whole crew and have fun together starting at $75 per person!
• Day Camps: Dive into action starting at $200 per camper – perfect for day-time adventurers! Day camps are available in Albuquerque, Clovis, and Santa Fe!
• Overnight Adventures: Camp out under the stars for an unforgettable experience starting at $600 per camper in the Jemez Mountains or Angel Fire! Check out the full scoop on all the fun and sign up at www.nmgirlscouts.org. Ready to make this summer legendary? We are!
Glorieta Camps - Glorieta Day Camp, 11 State Road 50, Glorieta, NM 87535. Phone: 505.757.6161; Email: info@glorieta.org; Website: www.Glorieta.org; Camp Contact: Mackenzie Bell, Day Camp Manager or Paul Morrison, Retreats Manager. Glorieta Day Camp is a five-day, 8 AM - 5 PM camp experience unlike any other! Kids, ages 6-14, are invited to our fun-filled, action-packed, Christcentered program that’s loaded with activities and learning experiences. Fill your kids’ summers with adventure and treasured memories! Cost: $375 and NEW in 2025 - students who receive free and reduced lunch at school are eligible for a FREE week of Day Camp. Optional transportation comes with additional costs. For more information and dates, please visit www.Glorieta.org/daycamp. Or plan to bring the whole family for our Community Retreats Days, May 24 and August 2. Learn more and register at www.glorieta.org/retreats/communityday.
Institute for Applied Ecology - Forest Bound, 1202 Parkway Dr., SF, NM 87507. Phone: 505-490-4910; Email: tannerjohnson@appliedeco.org; Website: https:// appliedeco.org/education/forestbound/; Camp Contact: Tanner Johnson, Education and Outreach Coordinator. A free botany immersion program for teens! Curious about the plants around you? Forest Bound is here to help! Many of us go through life without noticing the incredible diversity of plants around us. Forest Bound’s mission is to cure this “plant blindness” through fun, hands-on experiences. Get to know your plant neighbors while exploring how they support animals, human cultures, and entire ecosystems. Along the way, enjoy engaging games, creative art projects, and experiential lessons that make learning unforgettable! What you’ll learn about:
-How to identify native plants
-Seed collection
-Cultural uses of plants
-Medicinal and edible plants
-Pollinators and plants
-Careers in the outdoors
-Observation skills
-Plants and art
Forest Bound is a free program open to all participants ages 13-18. Dates and Locations:
July 28-August 1, 2025- Santa Fe
Field Location: Santa Fe National Forest August 11-15, 202- Albuquerque
Field Location: Cibola National Forest
To apply, please visit our website: https://appliedeco.org/education/forestbound/
Jiujitsu Dharma Academy: JIUJITSU SUMMER CAMP 1400 Agua Fria, Suite A, SF, NM 87505. Phone: 505-587-2272; Email: admin@darruma.com; Website: https://www.jiujitsudharmaacademy.com/; Camp Contact: Coach Sammy. Experience community building, and personal growth through jiujitsu, yoga, art, meditation and outdoor play. We learn the forms and philosophy of jiujitsu through technique, specific training, and sparring. Studying yoga, kids experience the benefits of body awareness through stretching, strength exercises, and stillness. Process-oriented art projects give kids a chance to play freely with materials and deepen their creative capacity. From the dojo, we walk to local parks to play, explore, and see how accessible rich outdoor experiences can be here in Santa Fe. Space is limited, so sign up today for this unique camp! We look forward to deepening our relationship with this community as we connect and grow together.
Learners Summer Chess Camp, Santa Fe (Rio Grande School). Phone: 505-3696026; Email: learnerschess@gmail.com; Website: learnerschess.org; Camp Contact: Victor Lopez, Camp Director. Every summer, kids from across NM come to Learners Summer Chess Camps to rekindle friendships, make new friends, learn together, study together, challenge each other, compete, mentor each other, be mentored by Learners' Chess Coaches, experience the latest advancements in the Learners Chess curriculum and process, play Capture the Flag and Frisbee and other fun games, earn prizes including more multi-colored chess pieces for their own colored chess set, get a Learners T-shirt, and improve their thinking as chess players, thinkers, social actors and leaders. Open to ages 6 and up, all chess skill and experience levels welcome. Locations: Weeklong Camps (mornings, 9:00am-noon, afternoons 1pm-4:00pm, or full days 9:00am4:00pm), Sibling discounts. Need-Based Scholarships. Santa Fe location: Check website for dates.
Summer Fun! Activities Directory
NDI New Mexico Summer Half-Day and Full-Day Programs for Ages Three to Adult! Register Online now at ndi-nm.org for classes at The Dance Barns in Santa Fe or The Hiland Theater in Albuquerque. Offering classes from Creative Movement to Hip-Hop! View the full schedule online!
New Mexico Fencing Foundation - Summer 2025 Fencing Camps, 1306 Clark Road., SF, NM 87501. Phone: (505) 660-2440; Email: nmffswords@gmail.com; Website: www.gomotionapp.com/team/nmff/page/class-registration; Camp Contact: Jack Stafurik, Director. New Mexico Fencing Foundation is offering day camps for ages 8–13 with or without previous experience. Learn the fundamentals of Olympic fencing from nationally certified fencing coaches, including footwork, bladework, safety, and competitions. Camp attendance is limited to 12. All special equipment will be provided. Sessions: June 16–20; July 14–18; and July 28–August 1. Times: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Location: 1306 Clark Road, Santa Fe. Cost: $300/week (10% sibling discount).
Rio Grande School Presents: Camp Vista & EC-K Play All Day! Camp is offered to children aged 3 through sixth grade. From magical quests and wild science experiments to Hollywood stardom and high-energy spy missions, Camp Vista is the ultimate summer experience for kids ages 5-12! ECK Play All Day is exactly what it sounds like—a week full of hands-on exploration, creativity, and joyful learning! Don’t miss out on the best summer ever. Seven (6/16-8/1) exciting weeks of day camp from 8:30-3:30. Camp Registration Opens March 1, 2025. Give us a call: 505-983-1621 | riograndeschool.org
Santa Fe Botanical Garden - Garden Camp, 715 Camino Lejo, SF, NM 87508. Phone: 505-471-9103; Email: christie@santafebotanicalgarden.org; Website: https://visitsfbg.org/learn/public-programs/; Camp Contact: Christie Collins Director of Education and Interpretation. Grow your experiences! Dig into some fun with our week-long day camps. All camps include a variety of activities that allow campers to discover the world of plants through art, science, gardening and outdoor exploration. Connecting children to plants and each other through structured activities and unstructured play. Campers will hike the arroyos, explore the piñon-juniper woodland, learn animal tracking, plant ID along and much more. Registration opens March 3rd, 8AM. Dates: July 7-11 Youth 6-8 years old, July 14-18 Youth 9-11 years old, July 21-25 Youth 12-14 years old Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Cost: $250 (includes all 5 days, does not include cost for after care.)
Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival - Summer Young People’s Concerts, St Francis Auditorium 107 W Palace Ave., SF, NM 87501. Phone: 202-445-6669; Email: ivy@sfcmf.org; Website: https://santafechambermusic.org/education-andengagement/summer-young-peoples-concert/. Camp Contact: Ivy Ross Director of Education. The Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival's free Summer Young People’s Concerts are a great opportunity to get kids excited about music. This summer, join conductor and arts educator Oliver Prezant for a fun and friendly explorations of engaging works by Franck and Schumann that feature Festival artists Paul Huang, Orion Weiss, and the Calidore String Quartet. A meet and greet with the artists immediately follows each concert.
Monday July 21st 10am
NM Museum of Art St Francis Auditorium Franck Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano Free - All Ages
Monday July 28th 10am
NM Museum of Art St Francis Auditorium Schumann Piano Quintet in E-flat Major, Op.44 Free - All Ages
Santa Fe Girls' School Girls Explore!, 310 W. Zia Rd., SF, NM 87505. Phone: 505820-3188; Email: rwilliams@santafegirlsschool.org; Website: santafegirlsschool. org/summer-camp; Camp Contact: Rosie Williams, Co-Director. Girls entering grades 4, 5, or 6 are invited to join us for full-day (8:30-3:30) summer camp as we explore weekly themes through writing, cooking, field trips, art projects, and more!
Santa Fe Improv - Summer Youth Improv Theater Camp, 1202 Parkway Drive, Unit A, SF, NM 87507. Phone: 505-302-1250; Email: lucy@santafeimprov.org; Website: www.santafeimprov.org; Camp Contact: Lucy River, Camp Director. This all-levels improv theater camp, led by SFI instructors, Kristin Larsen and Lucy River, will focus on the heart of long-form improvisation, the two-person scene. This one-week session is centered on grounded, authentic two-person scene work. We focus on two main elements: establishing a base reality (the who, what, and where), and the emotional reality of the scene (what is the character’s relationship to themselves and to the environment around them). We also touch on how to edit a scene and do support work through walk-ons and tag-outs. Improvisers learn how to become comfortable playing themselves on stage and draw inspiration from their real-life experiences. This camp is suitable for youths between the ages of 11 and 15 years of age or rising 6th-10th graders.
Dates: Monday, July 21-Friday, July 25, 2025, daily. Times: Drop off between 8:30 and 9 a.m. Pick up between 12:30 and 1 p.m. Class time will run roughly from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., followed by a snack break, and continue from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Parents must come into the theater to sign their teen in and out. Students should bring healthy snacks and a big bottle of water. Parents are invited to come and view their students on the final day of camp at the theater Friday, July 25, from 11:30-12:30 p.m. Cost: $275. Early bird registrants pay $250 if they enroll and pay before May 31, 2025. Please visit santafeimprov.org for more information and to register.
Skateboard Shred Camps in Santa Fe: Young riders will get expert instruction at Public Skate Parks learning the basics of riding ramps and bowls. Ages 8 and up, 9am to 3pm. May 26-May 30, June 2-6, June 16-20, June 30-July 4, July 14-18. Cost $350 plus tax. Cruiser Camps in Santa Fe: Ride our school's long boards and learn to turn, stop and slide while riding local bike paths and quiet neighborhoods. Ages 9 and up. 9am to 3pm. June 9-11, July 7-9, July 21-23. Cost $220 plus tax. 1219 Camino Carlos Rey, SF, NM 87507.Website: SkateboardSafety.com; Phone:505-920-5448
Southwest Basketball Camp, Albuquerque | Santa Fe | Pojoaque | Española. Phone: 505-710-7005; Email: mjohnson1834@comcast.net; Website: www. swbbcamp.net; Camp Contact: Marvin Johnson. You’ve tried the rest... now come to the BEST! Southwest Basketball camps provide an organized structure for youth to learn and compete at all skill levels. Ages 4-17 coed, camp starts June 7th. Visit our website for more information.
Studio Vaillancourt - Private Plein Air Art Classes, 2200 B West Alameda #2, SF NM 87507. Phone: 505-231-8961; Email: sandyvaillancourt@gmail.com; Website: Vaillancourtfineart.com; Camp Contact: Sandy Vaillancourt/ MFA Columbia University NYC. Private individual plein air art classes for teens. Summer classes take place outside around Santa Fe Mentorship’s /portfolio development. Space based on availability. $40 per hour / 2 hour session Transportation Drop Off/Pick Up provided by parents.
Summer Camps at the Santa Fe Climbing Center, 3008 Cielo Court, SF, NM 87507. Phone: 505-986-8944, Email: info@climbsantafe.com; Website: https://
Tallulah, 10
Summer Fun! Activities Directory
the world of indoor rock climbing! The challenges and climbing games led by our experienced instructors promote teamwork, confidence, flexibility, balance, problem solving and more. We have weekly Summer Camp sessions available for the Mornings (8:30-11:30am), Afternoons (12:30-3:30pm) or Full Day (8:303:30pm) starting May 27th. The camps are divided in the following age groups, 5-8 year old, 9-13 year old and 12-16 year old climbers and start at $249.00 per week.
Albuquerque & Surrounding Areas
1st Class Learning Center, 5111 Homestead Circle NW, ABQ, NM 87120. Phone: 505-898-5702; Email: 1stclasslearningcenter@gmail.com; Website: 1stclasslearningcenter.com; Contact: Leann C. Gordinier, Owner/Director. Now all ages; Infants - School Age! We have affordable prices and available discounts. No state tax. We accept ECECD. Ages 6 Weeks To School Age. Stop by to have a tour of the center. Open Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6pm. Our Mission Statement: To provide a learning environment that is safe, enjoyable, interesting and peaceful for all children, their families and community. Philosophy: We believe each child develops according to age and capacity, having the freedom to develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually without any pressure. We also believe children learn best when rules and limits are clear and consistent. Most importantly, we believe that children learn best by staff members who create an atmosphere that is loving, warm, caring, and friendly by which all children feel accepted, safe, and a part of 1st Class Learning Center.
ABQ Homeschool Connection - Story Tables: Youth Tabletop Roleplaying Games, 1410 San Pedro Dr NE, ABQ, NM 87107. Phone: 510-704-3128; Email: info@storytables.com; Website: www.storytables.com; Camp Contact: Callie MacSaylor. Join the adventure with Story Tables and experience our game-based storytelling activities meant to engage the creativity of youths, while fostering collaboration and a sense of belonging. All games are set in a wholly original, fantastical world ripe for adventure! Our story system, Isles of Mist, which we've run for the last eight years, has taken notes from other popular role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons, to create a system specially geared toward younger players. Gameplay is simple to learn and provides opportunities for social, moral, and intellectual lessons that support the growth and development of the youthful mind.
Albuquerque Iwama Aikido nonprofit community Dojo - Children's AIKIDO Summer Special, 435 Adams Street SE ABQ, NM 87108. Phone: (505) 832-7145; Email: info@abqiwamaaikido.com; Website: www.abqiwamaaikido.com; Camp Contact: Sensei Nicholas Johnson. Join Albuquerque's nonprofit community Dojo for a two month summer immersion in what Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, calls "The Art of Peace." Our Summer Community Special includes two months of lessons (June and July) plus your student's uniform Gi, all for $75. Classes will be twice a week, Tuesday and Thursday, from 4:30 – 5:15. Children ages six and up are welcome. Aikido is sometimes called the non-violent martial art or even moving meditation. It is suitable both for the active child and for the child who would like to become more active. Aikido develops coordination, self-confidence, poise, and discipline in a friendly, noncompetitive atmosphere. Aikido is an effective martial art that also applies to non-physical situations. Students learn not to escalate confrontations but rather try to resolve them in a manner that will reduce future negative physical or verbal encounters. Parents or guardians may participate in the children's classes at no charge. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
Albuquerque Little Theatre - Summer Theatre Camps, 224 San Pasquale Avenue SW, ABQ, NM 87104. Phone: 505-242-4750; Email: celena@abqliltheatre.org; Website: https://albuquerquelittletheatre.org/education/kids-classes/; Camp Contact: Celena Cox - Education Program Supervisor. Albuquerque Little Theatre is excited to offer 5 camps this summer for youth ages 5-18!
June 9-28: Annie JR - A One-Act musical for ages 10-18. M-F 11am-4pm. June 19-27: One-Act Play Camp for ages 10-17. M-F 9am-12pm July 7-18: PlayBuilders Camp for ages 8-12. M-F 9am-12pm
July 7-18: Teen Broadway Intensive for ages 12-18. M-F 1pm-5pm
Albuquerque Museum School, 2000 Mountain Rd. NW, ABQ, NM 87104. Phone: 505-764-6502; Email: jvanesky@cabq.gov; Website: albuquerquemuseum. org; Camp Contact: Jody Vanesky, Education Assistant . Make the Museum your classroom! Weeklong classes for ages 6-14. Morning or afternoon sessions in June and July. $125 per week.
Albuquerque Water Polo Club - Learn to Swim and Splashball Summer Camp, 6705 Fortuna Rd NW, ABQ, NM 87121. Phone: 505-226-4524; Email: h2opolo. kf@gmail.com; Website: https://www.albuquerquewaterpoloclub.com; Camp Contact: Program Director Kalyn Flores. Looking for a fun, active way to keep your little one(s) cool this summer? Our AWPC Learn to Swim & Splashball Camp
is perfect for just that! Held at West Mesa Aquatic Center for kids ages 5–10, this exciting day camp runs two sessions: June 9–13 and July 14–18, from 12:30–2:30 PM. Join us for one or both sessions! Campers of all experience levels will build confidence in the water, develop essential swimming skills, and get to play Splashball — a beginner-friendly version of water polo — all while having a blast with our experienced coaches! Each $150 session includes themed activities that promote teamwork, communication, self-esteem, growth, positive attitude and more. Daily snacks and awesome camp swag will be provided. Flyer, more information and registration link available on our website!
Ballet Repertory Theatre of New Mexico BRT's Academy, 6913 Natalie Ave NE, ABQ, NM 87110, Phone: 505-888-1054; Email: brt@brtnm.com; Website: brtnm.com; Camp Contact: Katherine Giese, Executive/Artistic Director. Ballet Repertory Theatre’s Academy has ballet, modern, and special classes offered throughout the summer. Monthly tuition ranges from $52-$80 for one class per week. Please email: brt@brtnm.com if you are interested and check our website: www.brtnm.com for more information.
Bosque Summer, 4000 Bosque School Rd. NW, ABQ, NM 87120. Phone: 505898-6388; Email: bosquesummer@bosqueschool.org; Website: https://www. bosqueschool.org/bosquesummer; Camp Contact: Phoebe Cooper, Summer Program Assistant Director. Discover why Bosque Summer has been chosen as the best summer camp in Albuquerque for six years in a row by voters in the Albuquerque Journal Readers’ Choice Awards and two years in a row by Albuquerque the Magazine readers! With Bosque Summer, your child can build their own adventure with the flexibility of our weeklong, half-day, and full-day programs for students entering grades K–9. Our diverse selection of courses is designed to spark your child’s curiosity and encourage them to explore new interests. Whether you seek academic enrichment, creative adventures, skill development, meaningful movement, or just plain fun, Bosque Summer will keep your child active, engaged, and excited about learning.
Dance Theatre Southwest, 3805 Academy Parkway South NE, ABQ, NM 87109. Phone: 505-296-9465; Email: dancetheatresouthwest@gmail.com; Website: dtsw.com; Contact: Patricia Dickinson Wells. All ages. We provide summer classes to everyone interested in building better dance skills over the summer months! Looking For An Alternative? Look no further! Advanced/Intermediate levels of ongoing 6 weeks of classes FOR ALL AGES, Young Dancers Intensives, and Kidz Dance Kamps. Three FIVE distinctly different programs for dancers of all ages: 1) 6 weeks of evening and weekend ongoing summer classes for Advanced/Intermediate levels and adults includes Classical Ballet, Pointe, Modern/Contemporary, Jazz, and Pilates. 2) Young Dancers Workshop for ages 8-147-13 includes Classical Ballet, Pointe/Pre-Pointe, Modern/Contemporary, Jazz. 3) Intermediate/Advanced Workshops throughout the summer with special guest artists including Jock Soto & Zippora Karz of New York City Ballet, Christine Spizzo of American Ballet Theater, Alex Ossadnik from East Germany Vagonova Training. 4) Special choreography intensives learning 10 pieces of different dance genres in 5 days! 5) Two THREE weeks of fun Kidz Kamps for ages 3-7 with different themes each week in June/July. Find us on Facebook and Instagram!
Escape In Time - Victorian Tea Camp, 1100 San Mateo NE, suite 20, ABQ, NM 87110. Phone: 505-386-1386; Email: escapeintimeabq@gmail.com; Website: www.escapeintimeabq.com; Camp Contact: Penny Cox Director Step Back in Time for a Delightful Victorian Tea Camp! Calling all young ladies (ages 6-12)! June 2-6, from 1:00-4:00 pm, join us for a whimsical week of Victorian Tea Camp -- a summer adventure filled with old-fashioned fun! We will put on our Victorian dresses and learn to make butter and scones, create beautiful crafts, master elegant dances, and even practice Victorian-era etiquette. Parents join us for a full Tea Party at the end of the week! Spaces are limited, so don't miss out on this enchanting time-travel experience! Cost is $250/girl; sibling discounts are available. Check our website for more information!
Escape In Time - Dragon Camp: A Knightly Adventure, 1100 San Mateo NE, suite 20, ABQ, NM 87110. Phone: 505-386-1386; Email: escapeintimeabq@gmail. com; Website: www.escapeintimeabq.com. Camp Contact: Keith Cox Director. Brave young squires, are you ready to embark on a legendary quest? This June 9-13, 1:00-4:00pm, we call upon boys ages 6-10 to train as noble knights! Learn the code of chivalry, practice swordplay, conquer medieval challenges, and even battle a fierce dragon to protect the kingdom! Join us for a week of courage, honor and adventure--where every boy becomes a hero! Cost is $250/boy; sibling discounts are available.
Explora Summer Camps, 1701 Mountain Rd., ABQ, NM 87104. Phone: 505-6006072; Email: reservations@explora.us Website: www.explora.us/programs/ camps/. Summer Break Camp at Explora: June 2 - 27. Registration is open now for our “Best of the City” awarded STEAM engagement camps created especially for your children and teens, PreK-12th Grades! Check out the immense selection available and book before they fill. Including: Farm Camp, Balloon Camp, Teen (continued on next page)
Summer Fun! Activities Directory
Camp, Sensory Friendly Camp, Junior Camp Assistant and Co-Designer Interships, and so much more! Financial assistance available.
Explora Eco Camp: June 2 - 6/ June 9 - 13/ June 16 - 20. 9 am - 3 pm. Join us at Explora's Farm Camps at Agri-Nature Center for an unforgettable summer experience! Dive into the world of agriculture, nature, and sustainability while enjoying hands-on activities and making lifelong memories. Camps for PreK-8th grade.
Explora Balloon Museum Camp: June 23 - 27. 9 am - 4 pm. Embark on an uplifting adventure at Explora's Balloon Camps, at the iconic Albuquerque Balloon Museum! Discover the wonder of hot air balloons through exciting hands-on activities and exclusive insite on the world's largest balloon festival hub. Camp for K-5th.
Explora Sensory Friendly Camp: June 16 - 20, 1 pm - 4pm (K - 3rd grades), June 23 - 27, 1 pm - 4pm (4th -6th grades). Just for our Neurodiverse learners. Volcanoes, Earthquakes, Tsunamis OH MY! In this explosive class, come and explore the science of natural disasters and dive into the fascinating phenomenon that shakes our world! Campers need to be able to communicate (verbally, communication device/ system), have independent personal care (bathroom skills) and feeding skills. For more information and registration, visit: explora.us/programs/camps.
Festival Flamenco Albuquerque - Flamenco Kids Camp, 1771 Bellamah Ave SW Suite A, ABQ, NM 87104. Phone: 505-242-7600; Email: festival@nifnm. org; Website: https://bit.ly/41TZ86g. Flamenco Kids Camp: A Creative Week of Flamenco Fun! Monday, June 23 – Friday, June 27. Daily, 9:00am – 3:00pm Conservatory of Flamenco Arts, 1771 Bellman Ave NW Suite A, Albuquerque, NM Presented by the National Institute of Flamenco, Flamenco Kids Camp is an exciting one-week day camp for children ages 5-12, offering an immersive introduction to flamenco arts and culture. Throughout the week, kids will explore flamenco dance, cajón (percussion), palmas (hand claps), cante (singing), Spanish language, and literacy, all while having fun and being creative. Camp tuition includes a Kids Camp T-shirt and a ticket to attend a 6 PM Festival show. The camp concludes with a free performance on Saturday, June 28th, where students will showcase everything they've learned for their friends and family (time and location TBD). Spaces are limited! Registration is first-come, first-paid.
Friends of Tijeras Pueblo and Cibola National Forest - Archaeology Summer Camp, "Want to Be a Junior Archaeologist", 11776 Hwy 337 (museum behind Ranger Station), Tijeras, NM 87059. Phone: 505-281-3304; Email: tijerasmuseumfriends@gmail.com; Website: www.friendsoftijeraspueblo. org; Camp Contact: Paula Michel, Education Board Director Friends of Tijeras Pueblo. Spend a week outdoors with professional and avocational archaeologists learning excavation and survey methods, local history, and how to record sites and artifacts. July 21-25 (9 AM - 12PM) Ages 10 -14 (parents welcome to attend with your child) Registration Donation: $100, limited to 20 students, closes on July 1. Camp information and registration forms on website. Direct questions to tijerasmuseumfriends@gmail.com and 505-281-3304.
Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails - Summer Overnight and Day Camps, 4000 Jefferson Plaza NE ABQ, NM 87109. Phone: 505-343-1040; Website: www. nmgirlscouts.org; Contact: Katie Mascarenas – Outdoor Program and Camp Manager. Get ready for the ultimate summer adventure with Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails! Whether you’re a future archery pro, a horseback-riding queen, or an aspiring art guru, we've got something for YOU. Our camps are ALL about making new friends, trying new things, and having a blast in the great outdoors! From canoeing and hiking to arts and theater, the possibilities are endless. And guess what? You don’t even have to be a Girl Scout to join the fun – camp is open to girls, ages 6-17, adults, and families!
Camp runs from June 6th to July 27th, and you can choose your adventure! Here’s the scoop on all the options:
• Troop & Family Camps: Bring your whole crew and have fun together starting at $75 per person!
• Day Camps: Dive into action starting at $200 per camper – perfect for day-time adventurers! Day camps are available in Albuquerque, Clovis, and Santa Fe!
• Overnight Adventures: Camp out under the stars for an unforgettable experience starting at $600 per camper in the Jemez Mountains or Angel Fire! Check out the full scoop on all the fun and sign up at www.nmgirlscouts.org. Ready to make this summer legendary? We are!
Harwood Art Center’s Summer Art Camp, 1114 7th St. NW, ABQ, NM 87102. Phone: 505-242-6367; Email: artcamp@harwoodartcenter.org. Website: harwoodartcenter.org/summer-art-camp; Summer Art Camp offers multidisciplinary, multicultural experiences for youth in grades 1-9. Since 1996, Harwood’s summer programming has fostered creativity and curiosity in young artists of all skill levels. Art Camp provides fun skill building projects as well as opportunities for both individual and collaborative creative exploration. Summer Art Camp runs over two-week sessions from June 2 through July 11.
Highland Dance Albuquerque, 3848 Rio Grande Blvd NW, ABQ, NM 87107. Phone: 443-624-6658; Email: emma@highlanddanceabq.com; Website: www. highlanddanceabq.com; Camp Contact: Emma Trentman, Director. Highland Dance is a high energy dance style that is perfect for kids who love to jump and bounce! We offer classes for ages 2+ at our North Valley studio.
HOPE Christian School, 6721 Palomas Ave NE and 6800 Palomas Ave NE, ABQ, NM 87109. Phone: 505-821-2513; Website: HCSNM.org/sportscamps. HOPE Engage Athletic Camps range from 1-3 days in length and give students the opportunity to learn about specific sports from our high school coaches and players through games, competitions, and workshops. Soccer, basketball, volleyball, football, tennis, track & field, cheer, dance/drill for a wide range of ages are being offered. All-Star Bible Sports Camp, a one-week day camp for incoming 1st - 5th graders July 21 - 25, 2025. Think Vacation Bible School meets try-a-different-sport-each-day combo camp! Visit HCSNM.org/summer for full details and to register.
Institute for Applied Ecology - Forest Bound, Phone: 505-490-4910; Email: tannerjohnson@appliedeco.org; Website: https://appliedeco.org/education/ forestbound/; Camp Contact: Tanner Johnson, Education and Outreach Coordinator. A free botany immersion program for teens! Curious about the plants around you? Forest Bound is here to help! Many of us go through life without noticing the incredible diversity of plants around us. Forest Bound’s mission is to cure this “plant blindness” through fun, hands-on experiences. Get to know your plant neighbors while exploring how they support animals, human cultures, and entire ecosystems. Along the way, enjoy engaging games, creative art projects, and experiential lessons that make learning unforgettable! What you’ll learn about:
-How to identify native plants
-Seed collection
-Cultural uses of plants
-Medicinal and edible plants
-Pollinators and plants
-Careers in the outdoors
-Observation skills
-Plants and art
Forest Bound is a free program open to all participants ages 13-18.
Dates and Locations:
July 28-August 1, 2025- Santa Fe
Field Location: Santa Fe National Forest
August 11-15, 202- Albuquerque
Field Location: Cibola National Forest
To apply, please visit our website: https://appliedeco.org/education/ forestbound/
Keshet Dance and Center for the Arts - Keshet Summer Dance Camps, 4121 Cutler Ave NE, Alb., NM 87110. Phone: 505-224-9808; Email: info@KeshetArts. org; Website: www.keshetarts.org; Camp Contact: Laura Orozco Garrett, Community Education & KP3 Program Manager.
June 9-13, 2025 | Little Movers Camp (Ages 4-5) | 9:00am-12:00pm - A halfday camp designed just for the youngest dancers. Dancers will take Ballet, Contemporary, and Creative Movement classes. Dancers will perform short pieces that they have learned for their family and friends at the conclusion of camp on Friday! No experience necessary. $100-$200 sliding scale, OR $45/dayHalf days from 9:00am-12:00pm
June 9-13, 2025 | Dance Sampler (Ages 6-8) | 1pm-4pm - A half-day camp designed just for our growing dancers to sample various dance forms!! Dancers will take Contemporary, Ballet and Improvisation! Dancers will perform short
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AWPC LTS and SB Athletes Practice Ball Handling with Coach
Summer Fun! Activities Directory
pieces that they have learned for their family and friends at the conclusion of camp on Friday! No experience necessary. Half days from 1:00pm-4:00pm $100$200 sliding scale, OR $45/day June 23-27th, 2025 | Contemporary, Choreography and Ballet (Ages 9-17) | 9:00am-4:00pm - Build dance foundations in our one-week camp. Explore Contemporary and Ballet techniques. Dancers will perform short pieces that they have learned for their family and friends at the conclusion of camp on Friday! No experience necessary. Full Day 9:30am-3:30pm - Full Day Option: $150-$300 sliding scale, OR $75/day. Half Day 9:30am-12:30pm - Half Day Option: $100-$175
Keshet Dance and Center for the Arts - Keshet Pre-Professional Summer Camps, 4121 Cutler Ave NE, Alb., NM 87110. Phone: 505-224-9808; Email: info@ KeshetArts.org; Website: www.KeshetArts.org; Camp Contact: Laura Orozco Garrett, Community Education & KP3 Program Manager. Pre-Professional Program Immersion, June 16-20, 2025 | (Ages 10-18) | 9:30am-3:30pm - This one-week Pre-Professional Program Immersion is designed for motivated and experienced dancers ages 10-18. Dancers will take daily classes in contemporary, ballet, and more, refining technique while broadening understanding of various dance styles. Dancers must have significant prior training in contemporary and/ or ballet in order to attend this Immersion. Placement auditions take place on the first day in ballet class. This is a great way to kick off the 2025-2026 preprofessional training season! *Prior experience required. Pre-registration and dress code is required. $150-$300 sliding scale, OR $75/day. Pre-Professional Program Immersion, July 14-28, 2025 | (Ages 10-18) | 9:30am-3:30pm. This one-week Pre-Professional Program Immersion is designed for motivated and experienced dancers ages 10-18. Dancers will take daily classes in contemporary, ballet, and more, refining technique while broadening understanding of various dance styles. Dancers must have significant prior training in contemporary and/ or ballet in order to attend this Immersion. Placement auditions take place on the first day in ballet class. This is a great way to kick off the 2025-2026 preprofessional training season! *Prior experience required. Pre-registration and dress code is required.$150-$300 sliding scale, OR $75/day Learners Summer Chess Camps, 532 Adams NE, ABQ, NM 87108. Phone: 505-369-6026; Email: learnerschess@gmail.com; Website: learnerschess.org; Camp Contact: Victor Lopez, Camp Director. Every summer, kids from across NM come to Learners Summer Chess Camps to rekindle friendships, make new friends, learn together, study together, challenge each other, compete, mentor each other, be mentored by Learners' Chess Coaches, experience the latest advancements in the Learners Chess curriculum and process, play Capture the Flag and Frisbee and other fun games, earn prizes including more multicolored chess pieces for their own colored chess set, get a Learners T-shirt, and improve their thinking as chess players, thinkers, social actors and leaders. Open to ages 6 and up, all chess skill and experience levels welcome. Locations: Weeklong Camps (mornings, 8:30am-noon, afternoons 1pm-4:30pm, or full days 8:30am-4:30pm), Before & after care available. Sibling discounts. Need-Based Scholarships. Here are the dates when we have camps at each location: Albuquerque main location: Weekly from June 2nd - August 1st North Valley Location: June 2nd - 6th NE Heights Location: July 14th - 18th and July 21st - 25th Rio Rancho Location: June 9th - 13th, July 7th - 11th, and July 28th to August 1st. Santa Fe location: Check website for dates.
Manzano Day School Summer Discovery, 1801 Central Ave. NW, Abq, NM 87104 Phone: 505-243-6659; Website: manzanodayschool.org. The Summer Discovery program ignites Joy in Learning®. Manzano Day School’s summer program stimulates critical and creative thinking in its participants. It is a 6-week program (three 2-week blocks) offering experiences with math, reading, writing, science, movement and games, music, and more! Children are guided through exploring, experimenting, and problem-solving by qualified personnel, who provide them with many opportunities to gain confidence and experience success. Manzano Day School’s educational philosophy inspires excitement for self-discovery and the development of life-long learners. The academic focus of our Summer Discovery program is to further prepare children for the grade they will be entering for the upcoming school year. Summer Discovery is open to all children ages 3 1/2 to 11 from the Albuquerque area. Children enrolled in the pre-k program must be at least 3 years old and potty-trained by March 31. Other classes are available for students rising into the first through fifth grades for the 2025-2026 school year. The 2025 Summer Discovery program will run from June 2 - July 11. You can sign up for all three blocks or choose whatever works for your summer plans! Before- and after-care is available for an additional charge. Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque Conference, 401 2nd St NW, ABQ, NM 87102. Phone: 505-836-0306; Email: jsalazar@atrisco.org; Website: https:// mariachispectacular.com/register/; Camp Contact: Jeanette Salazar – Manager. Give your child the opportunity to learn and grow in the vibrant world of mariachi music! The Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque Conference, taking place July 9-11, is perfect for students of all skill levels, from beginners to
advanced musicians. Through expert instruction from renowned mariachi educators and performers, participants will develop their musical abilities, learn traditional and contemporary mariachi techniques, and gain confidence while connecting with fellow young musicians. For more information, visit our website.
Mark Kistler Summer Art Camp, Christ Lutheran Church, 7701 Candelaria Road NE, ABQ, NM 87110. Phone: 832-972-5046; Email: info@markkistler.com; Website: https://www.markkistler.com/art-camps; Camp Contact: Mrs. Amanda Fuhrmann. Students will “Draw! Draw! Draw! with Emmy Award winning PBS television artist Mark Kistler! Over the last 40 years Mark Kistler has taught millions of students the joy of drawing in 3-D. His PBS children’s art television series, “The Secret City,” and “The Imagination Station,” and over 1 million of his best-selling how-to-draw books have inspired generations of artists. He can teach your children too! Learning to draw in 3-D builds powerful thinking skills and launches imagination! Register NOW for 5-Days of awesome, 3-D drawing adventures for only $99! Our turbo-fun imagination launching drawing adventures include: Batmobile, Space Kitties, Curious Mice, Toothy Dragon, Flying Pigs, and so much MORE!
Times: M-F, Mountain Daylight Time Zone
Session A: 9:00 am - 10:00 am (Ages 6-8)
Session B: 10:15 am - 11:15 pm (Ages 8-14)
Session C: 11:30 am - 12:30 pm (Ages 8-14)
Session D: 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm (Ages 8-14)
Session E: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm (NEW Seniors Workshop Series, "Drawing on Memory" Exclusively for adults ages 55+)
Session F: 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm (All ages, Family Art Night)
Musical Theatre Southwest - Seussical Kids, 6320 Domingo Rd NE Ste B, ABQ, NM 87108. Phone: 505-265-9119; Email: education@mtsabq.org; Website: mtsabq.org/education; Camp Contact: Jenni Hipolito - Chair, Education Committee. Students will spend 2 weeks learning acting games, singing techniques, and choreography through games to perform Seussical Kids. Students will gain experience, confidence and learn more about the ins and outs of musical theatre in a safe and engaging environment.
Musical Theatre Southwest - Alice in Wonderland Jr., 6320 Domingo Rd NE Ste B, ABQ, NM 87108. Phone: 505-265-9119; Email: education@mtsabq.org; Website: mtsabq.org/education; Camp Contact: Jenni Hipolito - Chair, Education Committee. Students will spend 2 weeks learning acting games, singing techniques, and choreography through games to perform Disney's Alice in Wonderland Jr. Students will gain experience, confidence and learn more about the ins and outs of musical theatre in a safe and engaging environment.
National Museum of Nuclear Science & History’s Summer Camp 2025, 601 Eubank Blvd. SE, ABQ, NM 87123. Phone: 505-245-2137; Email: brobin@ nuclearmuseum.org; Website: nuclearmuseum.org; Contact: Gabriel Nemiroff, Director of Education. Weeklong, "Science is Everywhere" Summer Camps, June 2-August 8. Students Pre-K – 6th grade can enroll in one, two, or all week-long camps, and they will experience exciting science and fun activities at the museum from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Please note that some camps held after during holiday weeks are shorter and will be at a lower fee. Five-day camps are $360 per child/per week Four-day camp is $288 per child/per week and three-day camp is $216 Our education team will divide camp topics into week-long camps that are multi-age collaborative camper experiences. The full-day camp programs run from 8:30 am-3:30 pm. Beforecare is available from 7:30-8:30 am and after-care from 3:30-5:30 pm. There is no additional cost for before and after-care, and they are available regardless of the camper's use. Museum members receive a discount after February 9. A member discount code will be sent to members. For more information on our "Science is Everywhere" Summer Camps, please email our Director of Education at gnemiroff@nuclearmuseum.org Please note, that if you register after May 12, your child may not receive a summer camp T-shirt.
NDI New Mexico Summer Half-Day and Full-Day Programs for Ages Three to Adult! Register Online now at ndi-nm.org for classes at The Dance Barns in Santa Fe or The Hiland Theater in Albuquerque. Offering classes from Creative Movement to Hip-Hop! View the full schedule online!
New Mexico Young Actors Summer Theater Workshops, Menaul School, 301 Menaul Blvd. NE, ABQ, NM 87107. Phone: 505-821-8055; Email: info@ nmyoungactors.org; Website: nmyoungactors.org; Camp Contact: Rachel Ribeiro, Executive Director. NMYA has been training kids in the dramatic arts since 1979! Workshops are Monday-Thursday, June 2-26. Drama I (ages 9-19, 9:30-11:30 am, $400) Learn the basics of stage acting with emphasis on movement, improv and character development, culminating in a class play! Musical Theater Intensive (ages 9-19, 12:00-2:15 pm, $440) "Be Our Guest" as we sing and dance and create a musical cabaret. Summer Shakespeare Fest (ages 9-19, 2:30-5:00 pm, $440) Dive into Shakespeare with no fear in our 3rd Annual Shakespeare Fest, (continued on next page)
Summer Fun! Activities Directory
featuring scenes from A Midsummer Night's Dream. Summer Stars Camp (ages 5-8, 9:00-11:30 am, $125/week). Multi-camp and sibling discounts offered. For more info and registration, go to www.nmyoungactors.org.
R4Creating Summer Experiences, 1650A Rio Rancho Blvd SE, RR, NM 87124. Phone: 505-715-7732; Email: Info@R4creating.org; Website: r4creating.org; Camp Contact: Shelly Gruenig. Join us for a summer of STEM Exploration! From a week long camp at the Balloon Museum exploring robots and engineering to 3D printing and CAD workshops in our brand new space - we have STEM fun for everyone! Camps and classes for students ages 6-18. Visit R4Creating.org for a full list of summer programs!
Ready, Set, Violin! – A play based commitment-free introduction to violin for ages 3-9! Wondering if violin is right for your family? Not sure if your little one is ready for lessons? This mini-camp lets them explore the world of violin with engaging activities! Classes run 1 hour per day with multiple time options. All materials included (including violin!), taught by world-renowned faculty. Phone: 505-926-1533; Email: alissa@abqstrings.studio; Camp Contact: Alissa Rieb, Co-Director; Learn more: rootsandwingsmusic.org
Rio Grande Educational Collaborative (RGEC) - Extreme Science Summer Program, 6260 Riverside Plaza Lane Suite A, ABQ, NM 87120. Phone: 505873-6035; Email: ldiaz@atrisco.org; Website: https://www.rgec.org/summerprograms-for-kids/; Camp Contact: Crystal Garcia – Manager. Extreme Science is a full-day summer program designed to engage children in hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) activities. Running from June 9 to August 1, our program provides a fun and educational environment where kids can explore scientific concepts through interactive experiments and projects. We also offer before and after-care options during the summer to accommodate families' schedules. For locations, hours, and more details, please visit our website.
Southwest Basketball Camp, Albuquerque | Santa Fe | Pojoaque | Española. Phone: 505-710-7005; Email: mjohnson1834@comcast.net; Website: www. swbbcamp.net; Camp Contact: Marvin Johnson. You’ve tried the rest... now come to the BEST! Southwest Basketball camps provide an organized structure for youth to learn and compete at all skill levels. Ages 4-17 coed, camp starts June 7th. Visit our website for more information.
SummerPrep, 532 Osuna Rd NE, ABQ, NM 87113-1031. Phone: 505-338-3045; Email: summerprep@sandiaprep.org; Website: summerprep.org; Camp Contact: Melissa Adams, Director of SummerPrep. SummerPrep, Sandia Prep's summer program, runs from June 2 – July 11 for students from any school in grades Pre-K through high school. With over 100 tech, art, athletic, and academic courses, campers create their personalized two-week session schedules. Exciting new classes include My First Food Truck, Lego Challenge, In My Crafting Era: A Taylor Swift Art Class, Pickleball, and more, alongside returning favorites Robotics, Kids Cook!, Hogwarts School, Fencing, Minecraft, and our famous theater productions. SummerPrep offers a truly customized experience – and an opportunity for campers to explore their passions, build skills, and make lasting memories in a supportive environment. View the SummerPrep class catalog and register at summerprep.org.
Summer Young Explorers Camps - 1801 Mountain Rd NW, ABQ, NM 87104.
June 2nd - July 25th, Holidays: 4th of July (Friday)
June 2-6: Dinosaur Detectives (K-2nd and 3rd-5th)
Do you love dinosaurs? If you said yes, then this camp is for you! Become a junior paleontologist as we spend the week exploring dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes throughout the museum.
June 9-13: Space Race (K-2nd and 3rd-5th)
Have you ever thought about flying to the moon or exploring Mars? Discover the machines that have made those thoughts a reality! Join us as we learn all about rockets and rovers that are already exploring our solar system and create a few of your very own!
June 16-20: Volcano Explorers (K-2nd and 3rd-5th)
Come explore and learn why New Mexico is nicknamed the “Volcano State”! We’ll explore the volcanoes on Earth and in outer space on planets like Mars and Venus.
June 23-27: Behind the Scenes at the Museum (K-2nd and 3rd-5th) What exactly goes on behind the scenes at a museum? Who works there and what do they do? Join us and find out! Go behind the curtain during this camp to learn about and meet the professionals who keep our museum running!
June 30-July 3: Bug Out (K-2nd and 3rd-5th)
Spiders and beetles and bugs, oh my! Delve into insect anatomy, how arthropods sense the world, and the roles our spineless friends play in the New Mexico ecosystem.
*Due to Fourth of July this camp will only be 4 days so the cost will be $256 for non-members and $230 for members.
July 7-11: Ocean Explorers (K-2nd and 3rd-5th)
Hold your breath and dive deep as we explore the ocean together! Examine the deepest parts of our planet and discover the creatures that lurk at the bottom of our oceans. Join us as we bring the beach to the museum and learn all about the ocean.
July 14-18: STEM-ineers (K-2nd and 3rd-5th)
Are you curious about everything? Join us for a week of hands-on scientific exploration. Get inspired by scientists to explore, experiment, and create in the setting of a natural history museum!
July 21-25: Dinosaur Detectives (K-2nd and 3rd-5th)
Did you miss our first week of camp? Do you love dinosaurs? If you said yes, then this camp is for you! Become a junior paleontologist as we spend the week exploring dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes throughout the museum.
Registration information:
• Price per camp: $320.00 (Members 10% off: $288.00)
• All camps are for children grades K-5 from 9:00-4:00
• Drop off begins at 8:45
• Aftercare is available from 4:00-5:00 for an additional $10 per day.
• Two age groups for each camp: K-2nd and 3rd-5th
• 15 students max for each age group
• The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science reserves the right to cancel camps that do not reach a minimum of six participants. A full refund will be given if a camp is canceled for this reason.
For questions or more information, please contact: Sioux Rivera - Youth and School Programs Educator, Phone: 505-328-9439, Email: sioux.rivera@dca.nm.gov
The Public Library Albuquerque Bernalillo County - Summer Reading Program, 501 Copper NW, ABQ, NM 87102. Phone: 505-768-5141; Email: library@cabq. gov; Website: abqlibrary.org; Camp Contact: Cody Wesner-Ellis. The Public Library of Albuquerque-Bernalillo County invites everyone to join us for our 2025 Summer Reading Program, a celebration of reading, learning, and fun for children, tweens, teens, and adults! Read books, attend events, earn prizes, and more. All for free! This 8-week program kicks off May 31 and runs through July 26. Register online beginning May 9 or in person at one of our 19 locations beginning May 31.
The Sport School - Summer Sports Camps, 2811 Karsten Ct. SE, ABQ, NM, 87102. Phone: 505-269-1633; Email: nate@thesportschool.net; Website: https:// www.thesportschool.net/campinformation; Camp Contact: Nate Gaudreault, CEO. We are offering Soccer (Recreational and Competitive options), Dance (Tik Tok and Sideline), Flag Football, and Jump Rope this summer! Ages 5 and up are welcome. $275 per session. Sessions are Monday through Friday, 8am to 12pm. 2025 Summer Camp Sessions:
Session 1: June 2 to June 6
Session 2: June 9 to June 13
Session 3: June 23 to June 27
Session 4: July 21 to July 25
2025 Camp Offerings: Soccer: Sessions 1, 2, 3, 4
Flag Football: Sessions 2, 3
Dance: Sessions 1, 2
Jump Rope: Session 1
Our coaches and teachers are trained professionals. They bring years of experience, professional preparation, and continuing education to each and every session they lead. They have a passion for sport, teaching, and facilitating learning experiences. They are committed to providing a high quality, engaging, and fun experience for every player in our programs. All of our employees have been cleared through Albuquerque Public Schools' (APS) Background Check process.
Mark Kistler Summer Art Camp
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.
ndi-nm.org
Young Historian: The Civil War
By KELI HOLT
In April 1861, the United States went to war with itself. This war, called the Civil War, happened just 78 years after the original 13 colonies had won independence from Britain. Even though the country had been united for many years, people in the North and South were growing more divided. Many Southerners felt that their way of life was too different from the North’s, and they wanted to start their own country. This new nation was called the Confederate States of America, or the Confederacy. While their constitution was almost the same as the U.S. Constitution, it clearly protected the right to own enslaved people, which was a major reason for the war.
Background
When America became independent in 1783, slavery was legal in all states. Some of the country’s leaders, called the Founding Fathers, knew slavery was wrong and hoped it would eventually end. They also saw that it didn’t make sense to create a country based on freedom while keeping millions of African people in slavery.
In the North, farming was difficult because of cold winters and rocky soil. Most people had small farms and didn’t rely on slavery. Instead, they earned a living by fishing, building ships, and trading. Over time, many Northern states passed laws to end slavery. But in the South, the warm weather and rich soil were perfect for large farms, called plantations, which grew crops like cotton, tobacco, and rice. These crops needed lots of hard work, and
plantation owners forced enslaved people to do that work. Many Southern leaders were rich because of slavery, so they didn’t want to give it up. When the U.S. Constitution was written in 1787, it allowed slavery to continue as a compromise between the North and South.
As America grew and new land was added, people began to argue about whether slavery should be allowed in new states. Many Southerners believed that enslaved people were their property and that they had the right to bring them anywhere. People in the North strongly disagreed, especially as more Northern states had ended slavery.
In 1820, the U.S. made a deal called the Missouri Compromise. It allowed Missouri to join the country as a slave state and Maine as a free state. It also made a rule: any new states north of a certain line would be free, and those south of it could allow slavery.
But this didn’t last. After winning land from Mexico in the 1840s (places that would become states like California, Arizona, and New Mexico), people started arguing again. Southerners wanted slavery in these new areas. Northerners were very upset and worried that slavery would spread even more.
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Albuquerque & Rio Rancho
5111 Homestead Circle NW
5111 Homestead Circle NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120
Albuquerque, NM 87120
1st Class Learning Center is a childcare center licensed by the State of New Mexico.
1st Class Learning Center is a childcare center licensed by the State of New Mexico.
• NOW Hiring all positions!
• FREE NM Pre-K Openings Available Now.
• Quality childcare 6 weeks to 12 years.
• Now enrolling all ages.
• ECECD subsidized care available, no sales tax charged.
Infants - School Age
• Reasonable prices & discounts.
• ECECD subsidized care available, no sales tax charged.
• FOCUS Pre-K & NM Pre-K.
• Reasonable prices & discounts.
• FOCUS & NM Pre-K.
• Age appropriate curriculum through FOCUS & NM Pre-K.
• Age appropriate curriculum through FOCUS & NM Pre-K.
• Nutritional meals mandated by CACFP, included in the price.
• All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and background cleared.
• Nutritional meals mandated by CACFP, included in the price.
• All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and background cleared.
• Staff also takes childcare training mandated by ECECD.
• Staff also takes childcare training mandated by ECECD.
COVID-19 safe practices!
Please feel free to visit our newly renovated center in Taylor Ranch, across the street from LBJ Middle School. (505) 898-5702
Please feel free to visit our newly renovated center in Taylor Ranch, School.
(505) 898-5702
1stclasslearningcenter@gmail.com
1stclasslearningcenter.com
1stclasslearningcenter.com facebook.com/1stClassLearningCenter
Summer Dance Camps 2025
Ages 4-17, all levels and abilities
Year-round Dance Classes
• All ages, levels, and abilities!
• Contemporary, Ballet, Mixed Ability, and More!
• Drop-In Registration Open to allSummer session runs June 9 - August 2, 2025.
SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! Sliding scale payment/unlimited noncompetitive scholarships offered for ALL classes and camps!
Visit KeshetArts.org for a full schedule of all classes and camps!
Photo credit: Pat Berrett
Young Historian: The Civil War
(continued from Page 40)
To avoid a crisis, Congress passed the Compromise of 1850. It let California join as a free state but said people in New Mexico and Utah could vote on whether to allow slavery. The deal also included the Fugitive Slave Act, which made it illegal for people in the North to help people who had escaped slavery. This law angered many Northerners because it forced them to help with something they believed was wrong.
In 1854, another law called the Kansas-Nebraska Act let people in those areas vote on slavery—even though they were supposed to be free under the Missouri Compromise. People from both the North and South rushed into Kansas just to vote. Fighting broke out, and the area became very violent. This time became known as “Bleeding Kansas.”
By the late 1850s, the peace between free and slave states had completely fallen apart. The South was afraid that the more powerful North would soon pass a law to end slavery everywhere. The North was afraid that slavery was spreading too far and too fast.
When Abraham Lincoln was elected president in 1860, many Southerners believed he would try to get rid of slavery. Before he even took office, some Southern states left the United States and formed the Confederacy. The Civil War had begun—a brutal four-year fight that would become the deadliest war in American history. In the end, the North won, and the country was reunited. Most importantly, slavery was finally abolished, and millions of enslaved people were freed.
Albuquerque
Young Scientist: Twins
By AILEEN O'CATHERINE
Thing One and Thing Two. Fred and George Weasley. Tweedledum and Tweedledee. Romulus and Remus. Twins have fascinated us throughout history. But what makes someone a twin? Twins are animals born from the same mother at the same time. Human twins grow inside their mother in a space called the uterus. A uterus (or womb) is a muscular organ that is hollow and can expand. Early in a human pregnancy, an embryo (EM bree o) develops after conception, and at around 11 weeks of pregnancy, the embryo is termed a fetus (FEET us). The fetus becomes a baby once it is born. When a mother is pregnant with twins, it is called a multiple pregnancy. For humans, a twin pregnancy becomes more likely as the mother gets older. While they grow, or gestate, inside their mother, twins share the uterus. All mammals, including humans, have a gestation period that lasts from conception (when a baby is conceived) to birth. Most human babies are born between 38 and 42 weeks of gestation. However, about half of twin pregnancies are delivered at 36 weeks because they can be difficult for the mother to carry. The average pregnancy lasts 40 weeks.
There are two main types of twins: identical and fraternal. Identical twins come from one ovum, or egg, that is fertilized by sperm to create one zygote that splits into two masses of cells. These are called monozygotic (mono zy GA tick) twins (mono means one). These twins have the same genes, with some variations, but they may not be exactly identical by the time they are born. As their cells create new strands of DNA and split
into more cells early in a pregnancy, they may pick up genetic mutations. On average, identical twins have the same genetic instructions (genomes), but some mutations may be carried in the cells of one twin and be absent in the other. Scientists have estimated this occurs in about 15% of identical twin pairs. Identical twins occur in about four of every 1,000 live births. Mirror twins are a type of identical twins that are mirror images
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Tweedledum and Tweedldee from Through the Looking Glass and What Alice Found There by Lewis Carroll.
Albuquerque
Young Scientist: Twins
(continued from Page 44)
of each other. They may each have a birthmark, but on different sides of their bodies. Their hair may fall in different directions, with one’s parting to the left and the other’s parting to the right. They may have opposite dominant hands, one being righthanded, the other left-handed. An even more rare type of twin occurs when the bodies of the twins are connected, or conjoined. Sometimes called Siamese twins, these twins are typically connected at the chest or abdomen. It is sometimes possible for surgeries to be performed so they can be separated. This type of twin occurs once every 50,000 to 60,000 births. Some scientists think conjoined twins are the result of a fertilized egg that has not completely split. Some theorize that the fertilized egg completely divides but later joins back together.
Fraternal twins, or non-identical twins, come from two ova (eggs) that are fertilized by different sperm. They make up about twothirds of all twin pregnancies. Called dizygotic (DIE zy got ick) twins, these twins are genetically different, just as siblings are. That is because the genes from each egg and sperm are some combination of the genes inherited from the mother and father. Fraternal twins can be male-female, which is the most common variation, but they can also be male-male twins or female-female twins.
One fun fact about identical twins is that their fingerprints are not identical. Another is that you can often tell identical twins apart by their belly buttons, the shapes of which are not caused by genetics.
Twin astronauts Mark and Scott Kelly are genetically identical, but can be told apart. By Robert Markowitz - via Wikimedia
Albuquerque
SUMMER
BUILD
This year, Bosque Summer is introducing Extended Summer, adding two extra weeks of full-day camp options to bridge the gap between school and summer break. More fun, more learning, and more exploration—just when you need it the most! Join us for Extended Summer the weeks of May 27–May 30 and July 28–August 1
Comprehensive Pediatric Care for Your Children’s Health and Happiness
At CHRISTUS St. Vincent, we are committed to providing the best care for your little ones. Our expert pediatricians offer exceptional care for children ages 0-18, treating a wide range of conditions including common colds, asthma, allergies, development concerns, and more. Trust us to keep your children healthy and happy every stage of their growth.
Visit us in one of our two pediatric clinics.
Arroyo Chamiso Pediatrics
465 St. Michael’s Dr., Suite 200 Santa Fe, NM 87505
Entrada Contenta Health Center – Pediatrics
5501 Herrera Dr. Santa Fe, NM 87507
Call (505) 913 DOCS (3627) to schedule your child’s pediatric appointment today.