FEBRUARY 2012
Departments Perspective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Digital news—check out our new website and more
WOMEN ’ S HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . 8 The ride into menopause—hot flashes, wacky periods, night sweats and more...
Fa m i ly a c t i v i t i e s . . . . . . . .10 The gravity of it all—the scoop on sledding and tubing in northern Colorado
HEALTHY l i v i n g . . . . . . . . . . . 12 A Valentine’s Day makeover—Make this classroom holiday and all party days as sustainable as possible
C o m m u n i t y n e w s . . .14
Children’s Health Insurance Program gets a boost • Vote for your favorite Dancing Star • Test your home for radon gas • PVHS announces high-altitude air ambulance service
NUTRITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Valentine’s Day is for hearts—show your family you love them with heart-healthy foods
C a l e n d a r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Events and activities for parents, kids and families
T i m e o u t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 It’s just the crazies—mom adds a puppy into the mix
School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Hispanic parents at Winona forge new relationships, TSD Board changes action meeting schedule and times
Features
16 Seeking happiness As parents, we are good at helping our kids develop their bodies and minds. But sometimes we overlook the third aspect that makes them whole—their spirits. Take a few minutes each day and tend your kids’ spirits. You’ll be giving them something that’s ultimately more important than physical strength and a sharp mind—you’ll be giving them happiness.
18 T aking a ride
Think your kids are too young to hit the slopes this winter? Think again. The coordination and strength required for beginner skiing and snowboarding develops by the time kids are 3 years old. As with any sport, snow sports provide exercise and improve overall health. Skiing and snowboarding in particular build strength, endurance and balance. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for the whole family to spend time together outdoors.
Poudre School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Kruse coordinator admires those who make time to volunteer, February calendar of events, Early Childhood Program enrollment clinics, fourthgraders use entrepreneurial skills to help others
Greeley-Evans District 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Community partners to operated preschool classes, latest Star Student video, latest Teacher Who Makes a Difference video,
ABOUT THE COVER
Fort Collins native Mollie Murinko celebrated her fourth bitrthday this year by posing for the February cover of RM Parent magazine. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.
Lunchbox. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans, and Windsor
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