RMParent April 2016

APRIL 2016 • RMPARENT.COM

STOP

BULLYING NOW Learn to rock climb The family that plants together...

the Region's

BEST

Family Calendar!

Bringing up empathetic kids Everyday

PARENTING MANTRAS

YOuth Program &

Activity Guide 2016

RMPARENT

|1

RECYCLE YOUR KIDS STUFF FOR

CA$H NOW STOCKING UP FOR SPRING AND SUMMER

Fresh and

Opening in Boulder Soon!

Fun

(970) 266-9999 4519 College Ave. Fort Collins, CO Corner of College & Harmony next to McDonald’s

STORE HOURS:

Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm Sunday 10am-5pm onceuponachild.com | Like us on Facebook

B

(970) 224-2866

111 North College Avenue Like us on Facebook

LIFE ISN’T ALL

FUN & GAMES

Free Shoes!

*valid with purchase of time bowling

B UT T O D AY IT CAN BE FREE GAME

of laser tag with purchase of second GAME One coupon per visit. Valid at any Chipper’s Laser Tag location.

Not valid with ANY other offers. Coupon Expires 4/30/16 RMP

chipperslanes.com #chipperslanes LASER TAG NOW OPEN! FORT COLLINS Horsetooth Lanes 217 W Horsetooth 226-6327

2

| RMPARENT

FORT COLLINS North College Lanes 830 N College 484-4777

LASER TAG NOW OPEN! ESTES PARK GREELEY 555 S St Vrain Ave Classic Lanes 586-8625 2454 8th Ave 353-4275

LASER TAG NOW OPEN! BROOMFIELD 100 Nickel St (303) 466-9700

Teaching Hunter Jumper lessons to riders of all ages!

FREE

Summer Camp With Spring Registration

call

For Information Expires: 4/30/16

Lesson Horses

available

After-school and Saturday lessons available

Call today to discuss your training goals Stefanie Hoffman, Owner/Instructor

970.402.2536

inspirationridingacademy.com

Fort Collins Favorite Fun and Friendly Pediatric Dental Experience

Our mission is to provide individualized and compassionate oral health care for all children

“Great with my daughter and very quick since 18-month-olds don’t like to sit still!

Great first dental appointment.”

—Kristin M.

Specializing in Dentistry for Toddlers, Children, Teens and Special-needs Patients

50% DISCOUNT For New Patients

INCLUDES EXAM, CLEANING, X-RAYS AND FLUORIDE.

-MENTION THIS AD WHEN CALLING(970) 484-4104

4609 S. Timberline Rd.• Suite 103B

www.RockiesKidsDds.com 4

RMPARENT

|3

4

| RMPARENT

APRIL 2016

Departments PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Know fear—learn to hang in there

AS WE GROW . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Raising empathetic kids—promote kindness and care through praise and example

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Art for kids of all ages—foster the creative talent in your child

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12

Climb to new heights—challenge mind and body with rock climbing

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14

Innovation leads the way in Colorado—bicycling, garbage and healthy kids

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . . . 16 Connecting naturally—kids learn so much from digging in the garden

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 4

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 4

Trying to avoid The Talk—intimate conversations with kids

Special Section PROGRAM & ACTIVITY GUIDE

Program & Activity YOuth

April 2016 • rmparent.co

m

Guide

Make playtime outdoors part of your everyday routine for mental and physical health. And whether you children are off Camps for kids of all abilities to camp or playing in Let’s play the backyard, check outdoors out these safety tips.

Plus, peruse our extensive listing of camps and programs, including a story about special camps for kids with all abilities.

Program DIRECTORY

BY CATEGORY • PAGE 18 ALPHABETICAL • PAGE 20 •••••••••••••

List of

PAGE 46

PAGE 8

PAGE 12

Features 18 STOP BULLYING NOW! When it comes to bullying, you may think

not my school, not my kid. Because bullying includes not just physical but social, verbal and cyberattacks, it may be time to think again. Bullying can have serious consequences that sometimes last well into adulthood—for both the bully and the one being bullied.

School District News Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 District 6 to host community input meetings, Haniford joins D6 to lead secondary schools and programs, Northridge kitchen manager receives state honors

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 PSD calendar of events, eight-person bike thrills adaptive gym class at Lesher, Beattie and Shepardson win Healthy School Champions awards, PSD welcomes new Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools

20 PARENTING MANTRAS

Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Setting rules and consistent messages in the form of an easy phrase that you can pull out of your back pocket when needed makes the complex task of parenting a little simpler.

Mantras help guide your kids as they grow.

District holds community meetings for Thompson Reinvented, students learn about Give Next, Harry Potter Day, summer STEMS program filling up fast

Lunchbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

FOR YOUR BACK POCKET

ABOUT THE COVER: Dylan, loves swimming, legos and his brand new puppy. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, courtesy of Sky's Open Design.

RMPARENT

••••

ADVERTISERS •••••••••••••

|5

••••

perspective Know fear

APRIL 2016 • Volume 20, Issue 11

Learning to hang in there

T

hings had changed quickly. It was 15-year-old Aly’s first long climb and the first three pitches (rope lengths) had gone along just fine in the sun. But now, right at the end, the weather, which we knew was coming, had hit hard. The sun hid behind darkening clouds and the wind whipped up. I was anchored firmly at the top of a small Flatiron near Boulder and Aly, was 30 feet down a ridge from me when the first gust slammed into her. She had one leg and one arm on each side of the ridge as she struggled to hang on. She climbed a few feet then looked at me and said, “I hate you.” The grin on her face belied her words as she inched her way up to my protected belay stance. After a short down climb, we were back on terra firma and already laughing and telling stories about our climb.

But there was that moment of fear.

Then there was the time I flipped the ducky at Turkey Corner on the Poudre. Little Andy and I swam through the haystack waves together. We were dressed properly with helmets, wetsuits and life jackets and we had a friend running sweep in his kayak. Still the waves were big and the water cold. We flipped the boat back over and climbed in at the bottom of the rapid. “Could we miss the big waves on the rest of it?” Andy asked.

Again, that moment of fear.

We all have it. From walking into a social situation where we don’t know people to that moment when we think a car might hit us on our bike. Sometimes it’s subtle and manifests as a lingering anxious feeling, sometime it displays as anger or frustration. Sometimes we just have a general uneasiness about the future or a dread that something might happen to a loved one.

A typical reaction we have to fear is to try to get away from it. If it’s a person or situation, we avoid it. If it’s a feeling, we distract ourselves with TV, the Internet or some other entertainment. But what if, instead of trying to get away from what’s making us anxious, instead of texting a friend or turning on the radio or whatever we do to distract ourselves when we’re feeling that not-so-good feeling, we just hung in there with it and tried to know it…to know fear. And then maybe to get past it…not to a place of no fear, but to a place where we don’t immediately try to escape.

Kim Sharpe writes about rock climbing in the Learn and Live column. Although she doesn’t mention fear as part of rock climbing, typically there is an element of understanding that you are off the ground and dependent on your belayer to catch you if you fall. There can also be some anxiety about if you’re capable of doing the climb…maybe social pressure, maybe your own drive. In any case, it’s a complex emotional and physical milieu found in other activities, too, that makes you feel your anxiety and push on anyway…much like many situations in life. It’s one of the ways that we can directly come to know fear in a controlled environment.

Happy trails, Scott 6

| RMPARENT

PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CALENDAR EDITOR Kim Sharpe calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt Sharon Klahn, Kyle Moyer COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Lynn U. Nichols Kim Sharpe

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2016 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

Connect with your customers RMParent offers new and small businesses instant credibility, community and value. We offer new

advertiser discounts and incentives custom-made to fit any budget. We’re local to serve local.

SEE what we can do for you: Greg at 970-689-6832

Greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

. . . . OR . . . .

Scott at 970-980-9183

Scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

RMPARENT

|7

as we grow

Raising empathetic kids

Promote kindness and care through praise and example LY NN U. NICHOLS

E

mpathy—it’s one of those gritty, intuitive emotions that comes naturally—or doesn’t. Some kids instinctively internalize and feel other kids’ feelings. Others need guidance from parents or caring adults to recognize how another child might feel. The good news is that all kids are capable of empathy, whether it comes naturally or not.

The idea that empathy can be learned is supported by a study at the University of Wisconsin, Madison that showed through MRI scans that compassion can be learned in the same way that playing a musical instrument or perfecting a sport is learned. In the study, 32 subjects meditated on compassionate thoughts for family and friends. Over time, the activity level in the insula region of their brains—the region that plays a key role in positive emotions—increased significantly.

Not only did the study show that compassion can be learned and expanded upon, but that it also increases positive feelings in the giver, supporting the idea that it feels good to give.

One way to teach empathy is to point out to your child his or her own feelings and reactions to certain situations. Start by stating the obvious—if a friend gives your child a compliment, say, ‘it sure feels good to get a compliment, doesn’t it?’ By recognizing this feeling in himself, your son understands the joy of getting a compliment and is more likely to start giving compliments to others. The same is true for hurtful situations. If your daughter makes a birthday list and leaves a friend off because she happens to be mad at her that day, you can help her understand the consequences of her actions by reminding her of a time when she felt left out.

Another way to teach empathy is to praise your child when he does a kind act. Doing so gives the message that you

8

| RMPARENT

value kindness. Parental approval is very important for kids. If you sense your kids are being kind to please you, that’s okay.

Even if they do it for your attention, it’s forming a habit of kindness and over time, the rewards of giving will take over. You can also reward with special activities or treats. For example, if your kids are getting along great you can say: ‘I like the way you and your brother are helping each other and being kind today.

Let’s celebrate with ice cream (or a bike ride, etc.)!’ You are teaching that kindness brings reward—mostly internally but sometimes externally.

A part of learning to be kind is becoming tolerant of differences. In general, people are uncomfortable with things they are not familiar with. Someone who looks different might make people feel uncomfortable—not because they are racist but because they are not familiar with a person who looks or talks that way. Counter this reaction in your kids by exposing them to all kinds of people early on and throughout their childhood.

You’ll help them see that different isn’t

wrong, it’s interesting.

Consciously make kindness a part of your daily life. If your child plays sports, prompt her to pick up the cones or balls after practice. Even the simple requirement of saying please and thank you to anyone and everyone who helps them in their lives promotes kindness.

How about making kindness a game? Have a weekly ‘random acts of kindness’ contest where the person who reports the best act of kindness at the end of each week gets to choose a family outing over the weekend.

Of course, kids learn most from watching their parents in action. The best way to teach empathy and kindness is to simply model it yourself. Offer to pick up your neighbor’s papers while they are out of town or walk the dog of the elderly woman down the street.

Bring flowers or a card to a friend who needs a boost, hold the door for the person behind you at the bank and offer for someone to go ahead in the grocery line. If this is the way you live your life, so will your kids.

RMPARENT

|9

family activities

Art for kids of all ages Foster the creative talent in your child

KATIE HARRIS

“E

very child is born an artist.

The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” These words, attributed to Pablo Picasso, speak to the value of nurturing the innate creativity found in children from a very early age. The question is, how to best develop our children’s artistic abilities at each stage of their childhood.

The Loveland Museum/Gallery is a wonderful place to visit each season for a rotating collection of art. In addition to several rooms of artwork to explore, the museum offers on-site classes for all ages. In April, 3- to 6-year-olds with an adult partner will have the opportunity to participate in Found Object Sculpture (April 15th, 10:30-11:30am, $10) and Earth Day Art (April 22nd, 10:3011:30am, $10). First through 5th graders can sign up for Doodling to Drawing (April 14th, 4:30-6pm, $20). Advance reservations are required, and can be made by calling 970-962-2410. The Loveland Museum/Gallery is located at 503 N. Lincoln Ave., and can be found online at www.lovelandmuseumgallery. org. Hours for the museum are T/W/F, 10am-5pm; Th, 10am-7pm; Sa, 10am4pm; and Su, Noon-4pm. Regular admission is free, with a $5 charge per guest for entrance to the main gallery.

Fort Collins Museum of Art kicked off its Masks exhibit on April 1st, featuring 12 years worth of masks designed by local artists. The masks will be on display through May 6th, when they will be auctioned off to the community.

In addition to the colorful and creative array of masks, kids will have the opportunity to visit the ART-EDUOSITY Creative Space. This hands-on learning area is designed for kids of all ages to explore freely, and features areas for sculpting with pool noodles, chenille stems, string, tape, glue, clay,

10

| RMPARENT

paper, and much more. The museum is located at 201 S. College Ave. and can be reached at 970-482-2787, or by visiting www.ftcma.org. Visiting hours are W-F, 10am-5pm; and Sa-Su, Noon5pm. Admission is $5/adult, $4/student, $1/youth, and Free/ages 6 and under.

Aside from museums, opportunities for hands-on art abound in Northern Colorado. VanCO School of Art, located at 254 Linden St., Fort Collins, offers drop-in and ongoing art classes for kids in oil painting, figure drawing, and life painting. Classes take place Monday through Thursday evenings, and prices range from $15-$25 per class. More information and registration details can be found at www.vancoschool.com, or by calling 970-430-5113.

Artisan You in Loveland specializes in art for kids, with after-school art classes for 6- to 12-year-olds, to specialized workshops in glass fusing, clay, and painting, to messy preschool art for 2- to 5-year-olds. A spring break camp is also being offered for 5- to 12-yearolds, April 4th-8th from 9-11am. Students will have the chance to tie-dye,

canvas paint, pottery paint and glass fuse during this week-long camp. In addition, walk-in guests are always welcome for self-guided art. For more information on the camps and classes offered, visit www.artisanyou.com, call 970-663-4906, or stop in at 341 E. 4th St., Loveland.

Young artists can also participate in a painting class at Studio Vino (426 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland; 970-622-9632; www.studiovino.com) or Pinot’s Palette (159 W. Mountain Ave., Fort Collins; 970-214-5208; www.pinotspalette.com).

Calendar’s for both studios are available online. Daytime sessions on weekends often feature simple, kid-friendly themes, and the instructors provide loose, go-at-your-own-pace instruction.

Drop-in painting is always available, space allowing, for self-guided art.

Whether your child learns best in guided classes, camps, or freestyle art exploration, there’s an opportunity waiting to be explored in northern Colorado. Call ahead today, or visit online to learn more about how to nurture your child’s inner artist!

The bike shop

that comes to you 20 years experience

former SRAM, Rock Shox, AVID Tech

Schedule Your Appointment Online

Community return, proceeds of our sales go to support the Fort Collins cycling community.

970-231-0605 • www.MobileBikeWrench.com LIKE BIKE WRENCH ON FACEBOOK

LIKE TEAM AC1 ON FACEBOOK

FARM CAMP Gardening Activities Farm Animals Farm Arts & Crafts Stories & Songs Horseback Riding u Session 1: June 13 - 17th u Session 2: July 11 - 15th u Session 3: August 1 - 5th

Ages 6-9 years old u LIMITED SPACE v Reserve your spot today!

1601 North Shields Street Fort Collins Visit us at: HopeFarmsFC.com for more information and to register!

RMPARENT

| 11

learn and live Climb inside

Beyond the many popular outdoor climbing routes, which should only be climbed if you have some experience and proper equipment, northern Colorado has many indoor climbing walls.

Ascent Studio Climbing & Fitness (opening fall 2016) 2121 S. Timberline Road, FC info@ascentstudio.com or www.ascentstudio.com

Climb to new heights Challenge mind and body with rock climbing KIM SHARPE

W

hy would anyone want to climb the rock face of a mountain? If you could ask George Leigh Mallory, an early mountaineering pioneer, he very well could answer the same way he did when someone asked in 1924 why he wanted to climb Mount Everest: “Because it’s there.”

Rock climbing as part of mountaineering explorations dates back to the Victorian period in Europe. As a sport, it began gaining in popularity in the late 1800s in England, Germany and Italy. Since then, rock climbing’s taken off as a fun pastime, both outside and at indoor gyms.

Jon Lachelt, owner/manager of Ascent Studio Climbing & Fitness (www.ascentstudio.com), which is scheduled to open in October of this year, began climbing in 1985 when he graduated from college and started working at Hewlett Packard in Silicon Valley, Calif. Now, as owner of northern Colorado’s newest indoor climbing gyms, Lachelt helps others discover the many attributes of climbing every day, including the high school students he coaches, and he highly recommends it for families.

“Climbing is a consummate family activity,” he says. “Unless a parent 12

| RMPARENT

already has prior climbing experience, they may actually find that their kids are better climbers. And because we aren’t competing against each other, a better climber doesn’t have to dial back his or her ability to participate with beginners.

That’s especially true in a climbing gym where there can be a very easy climb right next to a very difficult climb, maybe even on the same rope. And even if someone is physically incapable of participating in the climbing itself, they can still be part of the group, standing alongside the belayer, close enough to shout encouragement and high-five when the climber comes down.”

To get started, Lachelt says, “In the past, it was nearly impossible to do so without knowing someone who could teach you the ropes (literally). Now with the proliferation of indoor climbing facilities, it’s very easy to get started as they usually offer lessons or classes that can teach most anyone how to succeed and enjoy climbing.”

So, why would anyone want to climb? Besides Mallory’s often quoted response, Lachelt offers the following: Climbing is a full-body activity; virtually every muscle group in the body gets engaged, especially the core.

Climbing builds better coordination

Fort Collins Club 1307 E. Prospect Road, FC. 970-224-2582 or www.fortcollinsclub.net.

Greeley Downtown Rec Center 651 10th Ave., GR. 970-350-9400 or www.greeleygov.com.

Inner Strength Rock Gym 3713 S. Mason St., FC. 970-282-8118 or www.innerstrengthrock.com.

Loveland Laser Tag 401 Denver Ave. LV. 970-663-9999 or www.laserfuncenter.com.

Miramont Lifestyle Fitness North 1800 Heath Pkwy., FC. 970-221-5000 or www.miramontlifestyle.com.

UNC Climbing Gym UNC Campus Recreation Center, GR. 970-351-2062 or www.unco.edu/ campusrec.

Vertical Ventures 2050 Big Thompson Ave., EP. 970- 586-6548 or www.estespark mountainshop.com.

and a stonger sense of balance.

Climbing teaches trust between people. When climbing with ropes, you must completely trust your belayer. Once you trust your belayer and have confidence in your gear, your mind is freed to enjoy the movement and the environment.

Climbing engages the mind.

Climbs are like puzzles that you have to unlock to make it to the top.

If you climb outdoors, you get to enjoy fresh air, sunshine and communing with nature. There’s nothing better than that for a natural high.

RMPARENT

| 13

community news

Innovation leads the way Bicycling, garbage and healthy kids

KIM SHARPE

W

here can you go by bike easily and safely, learn more about environmentally friendly ways of dealing with refuse and think up award-winning ideas for how to make kids healthier? Why, northern Colorado, that’s where! From the City of Fort Collins’ strategies to help its employees bike more to Larimer County’s nationally recognized recycling center to Governor Hickenlooper’s call for Coloradans to submit their ideas for how to get kids to eat better and be more active—innovation shines bright here.

CITY OF FORT COLLINS NAMED A PLATINUM BICYCLE FRIENDLY BUSINESS The League of American Bicyclists recently recognized the City of Fort Collins Administrative Campus with a Platinum Bicycle Friendly Business (BFBSM) award, joining more than 1,100 visionary businesses from across the country.

With the announcement of 73 new and renewing BFBs, the City of Fort Collins joins a cutting-edge group of 1,132 local businesses, government agencies and Fortune 500 companies in 49 states and Washington, D.C., that are transforming the American workplace.

“The business community’s investment in bicycling is playing a central role in making the country a safer, happier and more sustainable place to live and work,” says Amelia Neptune, League Bicycle Friendly business program manager. “We applaud this new round of businesses, including the City of Fort Collins Administrative Campus, for leading the charge in creating a bicycle-friendly America for everyone.”

The City of Fort Collins aims to provide world-class municipal services to residents, and among others, can be highlighted by the achievement of Platinum Bicycle Friendly Community designation among other national and international awards.

14

| RMPARENT

By achieving Platinum Bicycle Friendly Business designation, it’s clear that the city’s vibrant bicycling culture is thriving within the walls of the administrative campus. The City of Fort Collins encourages bicycling as an easy option for transportation and provides amenities such as central access to MAX and other transit options, indoor bike parking for employees and bicycles available for staff to use and incentives such as extra vacation time for biking to work.

“We’re thrilled to receive this designation”, says FC Bikes Program Manager Tessa Greegor. “This award recognizes the city’s efforts to support health and wellness in our company culture, and to support bicycling in our vibrant community.”

Moving forward, the City of Fort Collins Administrative Campus will have access to a variety of tools and technical assistance from the league to become even more bicycle-friendly.

To learn more about the BFB program, visit www.bikeleague.org/business.

GARBAGE GARAGE EDUCATION CENTER EXPANDS HOURS The Garbage Garage Education Center at the Larimer County Landfill expanded its open hours to include Wednesdays. The Education Center is open for drop-in visitors of all ages, as well as scheduled tours, Tuesdays through Fridays, 10am-2pm.

The Garbage Garage is a professionally designed education center featuring displays and hands-on activities educating about reducing, reusing, recycling, energy, water and the landfill. The colorful “Amazing History of Trash” exhibit traces products, laws and trash disposal from early Rome and into the future.

Visitors also can add an activity to their tour including “Recycling Relay,” “Watershed Model,” Scavenger Hunt,” “Recyling Olympics” and more. A visit to the waste management recycling materials receiving center or the landfill

disposal area also can be included.

The Landfill is located at 5887 S. Taft Hill Road in Fort Collins. For more information about the landfill and related services, call the Larimer County Solid Waste Department’s 24-hour information line at 970-498-5770 or visit www.larimer. org/solidwaste. To schedule a tour of the Garbage Garage, call 970 498-5772.

IDEAS ON HOW TO MAKE KIDS HEALTHIER Gov. John Hickenlooper, the Colorado Innovation Network (COIN) and LiveWell Colorado recently launched Imagine Colorado, the nation’s first-ever statewide open innovation challenge. Through March, Imagine Colorado accepted bold ideas from Colorado residents in response to the question: How would you connect Colorado’s youth to a healthier lifestyle?

Used throughout the world by business, government and higher education institutions, innovation challenges shine a spotlight on a problem or opportunity and ask communities to provide ideas that can help build a better tomorrow.

Imagine Colorado’s aim is to engage all residents to come up with big ideas on how to ensure our kids have access to a healthy lifestyle. In exchange, $25,000 in prizes will be awarded this month to winning individuals and teams.

“We believe in the power of the collective wisdom of Coloradans to address tough challenges in our communities,” says Hickenlooper. “We want to harness this energy and ingenuity through the Imagine Colorado platform. We know that solving tough problems requires collaboration, and we look forward to the innovative ideas that will be submitted that will help make our state the healthiest in the nation.”

Challenge partner LiveWell Colorado is a statewide organization focused on increasing access to physical activity and affordable, healthy food for all Coloradans to prevent obesity and other chronic health conditions.

“Imagine Colorado is an exciting opportunity to tap into the state’s entrepreneurial and technology sectors and the creativity of our residents toward making Colorado a healthier place for everyone,” says LiveWell Colorado CEO Shepard Nevel. “We know that a

person’s health status is primarily determined by his or her social circumstances, environmental conditions and behavioral choices, so we can meaningfully increase the health of our state’s youngest residents by improving opportunities to eat well and be more physically active.”

Finalists will be judged through an online community voting process, as well as through a panel of experts.

The top 10 finalists will be invited to participate in a live event in late April where they will pitch their idea to a panel of celebrity judges, and live audience polling will determine the grand prize winners. In addition to prize money, Unreasonable Institute will provide each of the five adult finalists the opportunity to interview for the 2016 Unreasonable Institute accelerator program focused on early childhood.

Winning ideas will be distributed to statewide partners and the Colorado community so that appropriate champions can stimulate further action.

Preparation for Imagine Colorado’s public launch began several months ago at the 2015 COIN Summit, where key subject matter experts were invited to participate in two “think tank” sessions regarding a challenge question for Coloradans. The sessions were facilitated by Jenn Gustetic, Assistant Director for Open Innovation for The White House Office of

Science and Technology Policy and head of Challenge.gov. This challenge question was selected because while Colorado touted the “healthiest state,” the reality is that one in four Colorado kids is overweight or obese, one in three lives in neighborhoods without a safe place to play and 90 percent don’t get enough fruits and vegetables each day. Additionally, Colorado is one of only four states where physical education is not a required part of the state’s public school curriculum at any grade level. Better health is not just good for individuals and families; it has positive outcomes for our workforce, reducing costs of government and improving the quality of life in our communities.

“As a state, we need to ensure our innovation pipeline is overflowing with good ideas,” says Sean Kuusinen, Unreasonable Institute program manager. “We support entrepreneurs with the potential to address major problems at scale, and through Imagine Colorado we can engage all Coloradans in this process.”

Imagine Colorado is produced in partnership with The Colorado Health Foundation, Gary Community Investments, Unreasonable Institute, SkipsoLabs, Entravision and Comcast, and it is also supported by more than 30 engagement partners from throughout the state. For more information, visit www.imagineco.us.

RMPARENT

| 15

healthy living

Connecting naturally

Kids learn so much from digging in the garden LEA HANSON

brightly colored flowers and vegetables that grow quickly.

Maura Paxton, Youth Programs worker at The Gardens on Spring Creek in Fort Collins says starting with a theme is exciting for most kids, especially younger ones. “Kids want to lead the process but choosing from infinite options can be too much for them, and perhaps unrealistic,” she says. “Consider an herb garden which only grows things that can be made into teas, or a vegetable garden in which you grow ingredients for salsa.”

P

eople of all ages can enjoy gardening, but children in particular will have lots of fun and gain special benefits. From toddlers to teenagers, children have varying expectations and learn different things from the gardening experience.

Younger children require careful supervision during activities and suitable tasks might be limited to planning, planting seeds, watering plants, and harvesting. Older children are physically capable of handling a greater variety of activities, which might include digging, carrying, planting, mulching, and pruning. What all kids have in common, however, is their ability to learn an array of skills from participating in gardening.

Gardening develops new skills in kids including:

• Responsibility – ongoing care for plants • Understanding – learning about cause and effect (e.g., plants die without water) • Self-confidence – achieving goals and enjoying the food they have grown • Love of nature – learning about the outdoor environment in a safe and pleasant place

16

| RMPARENT

• Reasoning and discovery – learning about the science of plants, animals, weather, the environment, nutrition, and simple construction • P hysical activity – doing hard work while having fun and being productive • Cooperation – participating in teamwork •C reativity – finding new and exciting ways to grow food •N utrition – understanding where food comes from

ALLOW YOUR CHILD TO LEAD Kids are more interested and committed to gardening if they are a leader in the process. They can generate ideas for what will be planted, helping with construction and planting, and having responsibility in the garden’s maintenance. Grown-ups need to educate and assist where kids aren’t yet capable, but challenge yourself to avoid doing everything and let your kid(s) take the lead.

ASSIST WITH PLANT SELECTION They are more interested in planting items they personally choose. Younger children tend to be drawn to large,

KEEP IT FUN Gardening is a lot of fun in and of itself, but there are lots of ways to make it even more so. Paxton suggests creating visuals for kids so they can anticipate plant growth. She says, “Paste photos of the plants on a calendar as they will actually look three, five, ten days after being planted. That way, kids have an easier time waiting for something to happen and as the plant gets bigger, they can compare their own plant’s development to the photos.”

Fun, kid-sized equipment (watering cans, spades, trowels) is exciting for kids as well as creates ownership.

Creating teams and weekly duties can be a fun way to offer family competitions that are tied to rewards. And, for most kids, the simple opportunity to spend time outside in nature is something that is fun and exciting.

Sadly, children have fewer and fewer chances to interact with the natural world, and the connection to nature is essential to kids’ development. Children who develop regard and concern for the natural world come to be good stewards of the land and its resources.

Being responsible for tending a garden fosters their sense of nurturing and helps them learn to care for other living things.

RMPARENT

| 17

STOP bullying NOW

Tips for parents on bullying and what the schools are doing about it Lynn U. Nichols

W

hen it comes to bullying, you might be thinking not my school, not my kid. Yet when you consider a wider definition of bullying that includes not just physical but social, verbal and cyberattacks, it might be time to think again.

WHY KIDS BULLY According to www.stopbullying.gov, kids bully for power and to cause harm.

And it’s not just the kids who feel bad about themselves or are being bullied at home and have to lash out at others to feel better. It’s often the popular kids who have decent self-esteem who take pride in having control over others. They may bully to keep or gain social status.

Bullying can have serious consequences that sometimes last well into 18

| RMPARENT

adulthood—for both the bully and the one being bullied. Low self-esteem can follow a bullied child into adulthood, and according to a recent study, up to 25 percent of bullies escalate their behavior and end up in jail as adults.

That’s why it’s important to act now, before bullying can sink in deep. If you catch your son being threatening and pushy with a friend, address it. If your daughter is acting catty and being mean behind a friend’s back, say something. Kids might describe bullying as just messing around or “playing with” someone, but the person on the receiving end often feels much different.

If your child is the victim of bullying he or she needs intervention now.

WHO GETS BULLIED? Bullies usually pick on kids with less

social power, who are physically smaller than their peers and who are less savvy when it comes to playing the social back-and-forth game. Signs that a child is being bullied include not wanting to go to school or ride the bus, pretending to be sick and going to the nurse’s office a lot, having trouble with schoolwork and grades, getting feelings hurt a lot by classmates or friends. If your child is experiencing any of these, it doesn’t mean they are definitely being bullied, but it’s an opportunity for parents to explore and ask questions. Other signs include damaged or missing belongings, unexplained injuries, frequent headaches or stomachaches, trouble sleeping or eating, no interest in school and friends, being moody, angry or feeling helpless, a desire to harm or blame themselves and

Bullying in the shadows

Protecting kids from personal online attacks Cyberbullying occurs when people use computers or phones to send texts, emails, or social media postings to insult, put down, or expose someone to social ridicule. It has the unique consequence of possibly living forever and being seen by thousands. Here are a few ways to protect your child against cyberbullying—and prevent your child doing the cyberbullying: Discussing what online sites your child can and cannot visit.

Consider adding parental controls. If your child plays games online, make sure it’s limited to friends and not a public setting, where adults can pose as kids and “talk” with them as a game character. Make sure he’s not publishing his cell phone number or address online.

Making a rule against bad language, name calling and snarky responses. Explain that if you wouldn’t say something to someone’s face, you shouldn’t say it online or via a text.

Setting a rule that you get to periodically and spontaneously pick up your teen’s phone and sift through their texts—and also “friend” her on Facebook or don’t allow an account until a certain age (but know many kids make one under a false name or age). Limit the apps she can download including Snapchat, Twitter and other quick messaging tools. Explain what sexting is and how it’s absolutely unacceptable.

attempts to hurt themselves.

It’s awful to find out that your child is being bullied. If yours is, offer support: Empathize. Tell him you would feel the same way. Invite him to brainstorm solutions. Seek help.

ANTI-BULLYING PROGRAMS IN OUR SCHOOLS In their bullying policy, Poudre School District informs teachers to educate kids that if they are ever being bullied, or witness bullying, they should tell a teacher right away. From there, teachers are obligated to report incidents of bullying to the principal. If it’s not an isolated incident the family is brought in and solutions are mapped out. School counselors often get involved.

Each school is responsible for pro-

moting a “positive climate and culture that includes bullying prevention.”

Some recommended programs include PBIS – Bully Proofing that teaches kids to stop, walk and talk about bullying (also used in Greeley schools).

Other anti-bullying programs schools use are Stop Bullying Now and Safe2Tell, among several others.

Cyberbullying is also addressed by the schools. In a recent panel from Poudre High School on cyberbullying, Bryan Kiel, PHS Dean of Students says cyberbullying is handled head on and explains in a video how they dealt with a specific cyberbullying case that

occurred on Facebook in recent years (www.psdschools.org/node/1069).

School consequences include suspension and law enforcement involvement as needed.

In 2012, the Reporter Herald called bullying at Thompson School District in Loveland an “epidemic,” which has since led to more active anti-bullying programs in the schools, with all 20 elementary schools adopting anti-bullying curriculum.

The time to address bullying or any signs of bullying is now. When dealt with in the present, bullying doesn’t have to affect a child’s future.

RMPARENT

| 19

Key phrases to use through the different stages of your kids’ lives

g n i t n e Parntras mrayour-fo t e k c o p k bac Lynn U. Nichols

A

s parents, rarely do we get to be black and white. Parenting is about the grey areas of emotions, moods of the day, and the meshing of different personalities and parenting styles. Black and white is a luxury, and there are only a few places where it’s acceptable and encouraged. One of those is establishing mantras for our kids to live by—and these change, of course, as our kids grow.

Set rules and consistent messages in 20

| RMPARENT

the form of an easy phrase that you can pull out of your back pocket when needed makes the complex task of parenting a little simpler.

MANTRAS FOR YOUNGER KIDS Consistency is king for little ones. Pick your rules carefully as too many rules and too many consequences become ineffective and overwhelming. To avoid whining and battles, deliver your mantras calmly yet firmly, be specific,

empower with choices, and whatever you do try not to negotiate or pose your desire as a question.

Mantras need to fit your lifestyle and values, so give some thought to what structure you want to instill and form your mantras from there. Here are a few tried-and-true mantras to get your creative juices flowing: “You hit, you sit” This phrase can also be shortened to simply, ‘no hitting.’ With toddlers, the

fewer the words the better. If you feel yourself slipping into the Charlie Brown teacher mode, stop.

“Parents like to over explain. If two kids battle over one toy, a simple “share the toy or it goes away” works better than saying ‘not sharing hurts feelings, how do you think that makes your friend feel?’ Quickly, all kids hear is blah, blah, blah,” Glenn says.

When laying down the law it’s important to also praise your toddler when they do things well. If you notice your child being kind, give a specific compliment, as in, ‘I like how you are sharing your toys with your brother.’

“Stay where you can see me” and “hold hands” These are obvious phrases to keep your young kids safe. Getting in the habit of holding hands to cross the street or in crowds is a no brainer. Telling kids to stay where they can see you or to not go beyond an obvious landmark works better than the more vague ‘stay nearby’ or ‘don’t go too far’ or ‘stay where I can see you.’

“When…then” When/then combos are great for helping young kids connect reward to positive action, and to get them to complete a task they’d rather skip. For example, say, ‘When you pick up your toys, then we can go to the park.” Try the phrases either-or and if-then as well. Building in a choice between two things for young kids is a great way to keep things running smoothly throughout the day.

“You’ve got five minutes” As you likely know, toddlers can have trouble with transitions. When transitioning from one activity to the next, give a five minute, then a two minute warning.

Glenn advises parents of kids who dislike transitions to carry a timer: “That way, an object, not the parent, says it’s time to go. Mom or dad can act surprised when the timer rings and say, ‘Oh! Times up! We have to go.’”

MANTRAS FOR OLDER KIDS As kids grow up, so do rules. They become more sophisticated. Here are some you might find yourself saying to older elementary-aged kids, pre-teens and teens.

“Text me when you change plans or locations.”

It’s good to get kids in the habit of checking in when they are in elementary school, so it continues naturally into middle and high school. Your fourth grader might be riding his bike to his friend’s house down the street, but then they decide to go shoot hoops at the neighborhood park. That’s fine, but instill a rule that they have to let you know when they change plans or locations.

Glenn says it’s really a matter of mutual respect rather than control or distrust, which teens don’t always get. “Explain it in the way that as people who live together you need to know where each other are and when you can expect them home. Tell your teen, ‘I’ll let you know where I am, and you do the same for me. If you expect me at a certain time you want to know I’ll show up, or if I leave the house unexpectedly, you want to know where I am. I want the same. It’s what families do.”

“Let me think about it and get back to you.”

Kids often put us on the spot, especially pre-teens and teenagers. They want an answer now. It’s okay to say ‘I don’t know’ or ‘Let me get back to you on that.’ The same phrase works great when your teen breaks curfew or skips class and you have to apply a consequence. You may be upset in the moment, so pressing the pause button with this phrase lets you calm down and be thoughtful rather than reactive. It’s best to give a precise time you will get back to them—an hour, a day—so as not to leave things hanging.

“Make good choices” This is one you’ll hang your hat on as your kids grow up. It reminds them what you expect of them, and if it’s the last words they hear from you before going out that night, maybe, just maybe, it will ring in their ears!

“When my teens are walking out the door I like to say, ‘make good choices’ or ‘make the best you choices you

can,’” Glenn says.

“I’m here for you” This might be the most important phrase of all, for any age. It says, if you need to talk, I’ll listen. If you are in trouble, I’ll help. If you feel lonely, I’m here. It gives the message of unconditional love. Your kids may screw up, but you don’t stop loving them and they know that.

Glenn teaches a class called Girl Talk: Mother Daughter Workshop for moms and daughters ages 9 to 12. It’s a jam session on self-esteem, friendship, bullying and body changes (visit fcwc. com for more, or to sign up for the April 7 class). She discusses the ‘24-hour rule.’

“It’s a mom’s way of saying, ‘I’ve got your back.’ As a pre-teen or teen, if you get in a bad situation the 24hour rule goes into effect. It means that I, as a parent, won’t lecture or consequence you for 24 hours. It gives everyone a chance to settle down and look at it the next day from a fresh perspective,” Glenn says.

Likely, you already have a few favorite sayings that you live by and that help keep your kids and house in order.

The next time your kids buck the system or challenge you, remember that being a broken record can be a good thing.

RMPARENT

| 21

Looking for a Care Integrative Practitioner?

Primary

Schedule today with Sheila Kupersmith NP

We offer the best Medicine for Body, Mind and Spirit Integrating: Primary Care for All Ages Integrative Medicine Functional Medicine

NATURAL PHARMACY

9am - 5pm Monday thru Thursday 9am - 4pm Friday Closed weekends & holidays

Homeopathy

Supplements, Botanicals and Nutraceuticals WE ACCEPT MOST INSURANCE

970.472.6802 • Call Our Clinic 970.472.6789 315 Canyon Avenue, Fort Collins • www.TheHealingGardens.org

Reach All of Northern Colorado

with Your Business Today!

To Advertise:

Greg at 970-689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com Scott at 970-980-9183 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

22

| RMPARENT

Hey Fort Collins, Visit our NEW Location!

1200 South College Avenue| Cafe Vino Building

Preschool Dance, KinderDance, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Ballet, Tap, & More!

First Month FREE* for RM Parent Readers! *Enter Promo Code RMParent upon enrollment

It’s Not Too Late to Register for Classes!

GREELEY | WINDSOR | EATON | FORT COLLINS

(970) 590-9530

Ride on Your 2016 guide to northern Colorado bicycling culture and events is now available.

To advertise in Ride, call Greg or Scott.

Discounts for 2017 space reservations.

In Fort Collins call Greg Hoffman 970-689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

All others call Scott Titterington 970-980-9183 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

RMPARENT

| 23

greeley-evans district 6 news District 6 to host community input meetings be presented to the Board of Education in May.

Greeley-Evans School District 6 is hosting several opportunities for residents in our communities to provide input on the needs in public schools and funding priorities that will impact student success.

Currently, a Citizens Advisory Committee made up of parents, District 6 and charter school staff and board members, business owners and community members is meeting to study a possible ballot measure for November 2016. Additional input from our District 6 families and community members is needed to advise this committee.

District 6 is hosting three School Improvement Community Input meetings in April. These meetings are open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. Here are the times and locations for these meetings:

• Wednesday, Apr. 6, from 6-7:30pm at Martinez Elementary School – in Spanish only • Wednesday, Apr. 13, from 6-7:30pm at Evans Community Center, 1100 37th St., Evans (Spanish interpreters will be available)

24

| RMPARENT

• Tuesday, Apr. 19, from 6-7:30pm at Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., Greeley (Spanish interpreters will be available)

In addition, District 6 will host a Telephone Town Hall on Sunday, April 10 from 5-6pm. District 6 families and voters will receive a call, asking them to participate in a telephone conversation about the needs of District 6 hosted by Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch and including a teacher, a principal, a parent and a community member. Residents will also be given the opportunity to sign up to receive a call on their cell phone or alternative telephone.

These meetings will coincide with the release of the parent and community survey that will be available on the District 6 website at www.greeley schools.org/communitysurvey, beginning on Monday, March 28.

Input collected at all meetings and through the survey will be reported to the Citizens Advisory Committee, which is working on a recommendation for a possible funding measure. It is planned this recommendation will

HANIFORD JOINS D6 TO LEAD SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND PROGRAMS Dr. Rhonda Haniford, currently the principal at Centaurus High School in Lafayette, Colorado, will join the administrative team at Greeley-Evans School District 6 on July 1, 2016, serving as Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools.

The District 6 Board of Education approved Dr. Haniford’s appointment at its meeting Monday, March 14. Dr. Haniford has served as the principal at Centaurus since 2007. Previously she worked in the Ritenour School District in St. Louis, Missouri, where she served as a language arts teacher, assistant principal and high school principal.

“Joining Greeley-Evans School District 6 is an amazing opportunity, and honestly a dream come true. Greeley’s strong mission to engage, empower, and inspire students resonates with me as a school leader and parent,” Dr. Haniford says. “I believe that each student is unique and has unlimited potential. I am deeply committed to partnering with our students and our shared community so that students are successful and confidently pursue their own dreams.”

Dr. Haniford has served on the

Boulder Valley School District’s strategic planning team, and has successfully lead Centaurus to significant gains in student achievement, engagement and graduation rates. Last year, Centaurus had a less than .5 percent dropout rate.

“Dr. Haniford has extensive experience in school turn-around leadership,” says Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch. “Her investment in cultural proficiency development and community-building has earned her recognition throughout the Boulder Valley School District.”

Beginning in the 2016-17 school year, Dr. Haniford will oversee all high schools and middle schools in District 6, as well as secondary programs such as Career and Technical Education, Career Pathways and Advanced Placement.

NORTHRIDGE KITCHEN MANAGER RECEIVES STATE HONOR The Colorado School Nutrition Association has named Anna Meza,

kitchen manager at Northridge High School, the 2016 Colorado Manager of the Year. She will be recognized at the annual Summer Conference of CSNA in June.

Anna has worked for District 6 Nutrition Services for 4 years, serving as a kitchen manager at both Jackson Elementary School and currently at Northridge High School. Anna was recognized for her dedication to providing her students an excellent, unique meal experience at Jackson Elementary and for her above and beyond support of D6 Nutrition Services programs and promotions. Anna is a graduate of Front Range Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Advanced Culinary Arts.

As the state winner for Colorado, the School Nutrition Association will now consider Anna for regional and national recognition.

Nutrition Services Director Jeremy West says Anna embodies the mission/ vision of what the department is trying to accomplish every day: “Nourishing

Students. Creating Success.”

“Anna’s exceptional customer service skills, positive attitude, creativity and dedication to her co-workers, students and school ensure all her customers feel cared for and receive quality meals each school day,” West says. “Anna is an asset to our team and we are thrilled for her to receive this well-deserved recognition.”

RMPARENT

| 25

poudre school district news Eight-person bike thrills adaptive gym class

Behind Lesher Middle School on Thursday, a group of middle-schoolers clustered around a giant eight-person bike called the “Magic School Bus.” Staff from Safe Routes to School, a city program, and Bike Fort Collins, a local nonprofit, helped several students with disabilities settle into their seats, tightening straps and adjusting helmets.

Next to the bike bus, a dozen middleschool peer mentors hovered around excitedly on their bikes.

The adaptive physical education class has long been a dream of teacher Jo Dixon. She selects about three mentors for every one student with a disability, a ratio that allows each child to receive a high level of attention and support, increasing the quality of their education.

“I love working with the kids,” eighth grade mentor Vaughn Reschenberg says. “The smiles on the kids’ faces are awesome today.”

With everyone ready to go, the bike slowly lurched forward, as 16 feet pedaled together to propel it down the street. The peer mentors flocked behind it.

26

| RMPARENT

“My favorite part is seeing the students’ faces light up, because they don’t get to ride normal bikes very much,” seventh grade mentor Lewis Turner says. “This class is a good thing for them, and it’s a good thing for us.”

Safe Routes to School has partnered with PSD to secure grants providing bike racks, bike fix-it stations and funds to improve biking infrastructure, like a $315,000 multi-use trail serving Tavelli Elementary.

“We also teach bike and pedestrian safety, skills and rules of the road during P.E. time,” Dot Dickerson, Instructional Coordinator for Safe Routes to School says.

Recently, the program has been trying to find innovative ways to reach out to students with disabilities. So when local builder Zach Yendra created the bike and donated it to the city, it was a perfect fit to meet the need.

“Students with disabilities normally don’t get these types of experiences,” Dixon says. “I love watching the kids succeed, and know that they have a place as well.”

FCHS BECOMES FIRST PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL TO EARN RECOGNITION FROM AMERICAN LEAGUE OF BICYCLISTS Fort Collins High School just became the first public high school in America to be certified as a Silver Bicycle Friendly Business by the American League of Bicyclists.

The designation recognizes that FCHS encourages biking and provides amenities like showers and a bike repair station that make pedaling a feasible transportation option. It’s a big win for the school’s burgeoning bike club, which teaches students about the benefits of cycling and supports students and staff who regularly ride their bikes to school.

“The goal is to increase bicycle participation and education,” club cosponsor Cathy Hettleman says.

One day, she hopes to offer a class in bike safety and repair for students, and have a lab space for students to practice hands-on skills. In the meantime, the club incentivizes riding by offering free helmets, repairs and a supportive community.

“My favorite part is just being able to bike around with my friends,” freshman Connor Mikesolo says as he mans a club table during lunch, offering free helmet fittings and swag to other students.

Adding that layer of legitimacy — or, in high school words — the ‘cool factor’ is also crucial in increasing the popularity of biking within the student population.

“Our club numbers are small, but we have a large influence on the school when kids see other kids commuting,” club co-sponsor and English teacher Mitch Schneider says. “Biking is a really good way to get around the town we’re in.”

Schneider and Hettleman are among a handful of teachers who regularly commute by bike to school, taking advantage of Fort Collins’s city-wide platinum bike-friendly designation.

“I want to model for kids that not everyone has to get in a car to get to where you want to go, especially in Fort Collins,” he says.

Practically, biking is good way to ease the congestion of more than 1,000 people trying to get to school in the morning. But it’s more than just transportation. The club sponsors want to make getting a bike and learning how to maintain it the same kind of milestone that getting a driver’s license is — a symbol of adulthood and independence.

“The nature of a bike is that you’re self-reliant, you can get yourself places,” Schneider says. “There’s an important metaphor there — in a way, we’re learning the skills we need to keep our lives together and keep moving forward.

BEATTIE AND SHEPARDSON WIN HEALTHY SCHOOL CHAMPIONS AWARDS A robust wellness program with more than 60 activities for students and staff earned Beattie Elementary recognition as a Healthy School Champion by the Colorado Education Initiative.

Activities like staff badminton matches, weekly family hikes, an after-school student running club and 5210 training helped Beattie beat out about 100 other schools to earn an Excellence Award.

“This is particularly exciting because of the high competition,” physical

education teacher Michelle Mueller says. “We all know Colorado is a healthy state. So to be competing in a healthy state to be a healthy school — it’s quite an acknowledgement to be recognized.”

Shepardson S.T.E.M. elementary was also recognized as a Promising School, largely for their efforts to increase fitness among staff through races and walking challenges.

Shepardson plans to spend the $300 in award money to purchase staff FitBits or Walking Classroom curriculum. Beattie will use their $500 award to install a recessed hydration station that makes it easy for students to refill their water bottles.

PSD WELCOMES NEW ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS PSD is pleased to announce Scott Nielsen as the new Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools.

During his 20 years in the district, Nielsen has served as a special education teacher, assistant principal, coach and athletic director at Lincoln and Kinard Middle Schools. Most recently, he has been the principal at Preston Middle School for 9 years.

“We are thrilled to have an educator who has proven his dedication to student success over many years in the district step into this critical leadership role,” Superintendent Dr. Sandra Smyser says. “Scott is passionate about

forming strong relationships with students, staff and parents. Our middle and high schools will thrive under his leadership.”

At Preston, Nielsen helped oversee the transition from junior high to middle schools, and developed the school’s STEM program. He’s passionate about advocating for a positive school culture that fosters high student achievement.

Nielsen received his Bachelor of Science from Winona State University in Elementary Education and his Master of Art from University of Northern Colorado in Special Education. He also earned Principal Licensure from Colorado State University.

“I’ve enjoyed all of my roles in the district,” Nielsen says. “In each one, I’ve tried hard to create the conditions that allow kids to have awesome experiences, and I’m looking forward to continuing that work in this new role.”

Nielsen will officially transition to the position on July 1, 2016, when current Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools Edie Eckles retires.

PSD Calendar of Events April 8 ..... N o school K-12 April 12 .... 6 :30pm, Board of Education meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Ave. April 26 .... 6 :30pm, Board of Education meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Ave.

RMPARENT

| 27

28

| RMPARENT

Triathlon, Duathlon & Family Fun Run!

Saturday, May 21

Parents of any age may register and race with their children

fortcollinschildrenstriathlon.com

RMPARENT

| 29

thompson school district news Students learn about Give Next

Conrad Ball Middle School (CBMS) students recently participated in the “Give Next” program, which was started by the Bohemian Foundation. The program is designed to educate students about the vital role that nonprofits and philanthropy play in their community.

Through the program, local businesses, foundations and individuals become classroom sponsors by providing each participating school with $5,000 to award to nonprofits in Larimer County. With the financial support of these generous sponsors, students design and manage their own grant-making programs. A big “thank you” goes out to this year’s classroom sponsors, Kaiser Permanente and Patrick and Denise Juliana.

Each year, students involved in the program must go through the following process:

STEP 1: IDENTIFY THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY: This year the “Give Next”

students made a video to poll the entire school in order to better understand the needs of the community.

STEP 2: CHOOSE A FOCUS AREA: The

30

| RMPARENT

results of the poll showed that students at CBMS were most concerned with suicide prevention, family support and positive role models for students.

STEP 3: CREATE A MISSION STATEMENT:

“We the students of Conrad Ball Middle School are going to support kids in a positive way. We are encouraging prevention programs that help give children role models and family support. With the help of various individual and business contributions as well as our fundraising goal of $1,000, we hope to address these issues and help our community.”

STEP 4: REVIEW GRANT APPLICATIONS:

CBMS students received sixteen different applications from nonprofits in Larimer County. While reviewing each application, students scored them based off of specific criteria related to their mission statement.

STEP 5: MAKE FUNDING DECISIONS: After the students reviewed and scored each application, they had to decide how they would split the funds. This year, the CBMS “Give Next” students chose Harrington Arts Alliance and the Boys and Girls Club

of Larimer County to be awarded.

“The Give Next program dissolves the boundary between teenagers and their community,” says CBMS “Give Next” teacher Nichol Wolverton. “It provides a voice for teenagers to make a noticeable change in their community.

The teens buy in to this opportunity when they learn that they have the power to choose and design a mission statement that reflects their unique perspective. It really sinks in when the students receive the applications from the nonprofits that are each competing for funds to help them accomplish their mission statement. During the award ceremony, students grasp the impact they are having as they respond to the gratitude and respect from the adult community members.

Students are able to walk away from this experience with a new perspective of their community and the opportunities within their community. They rise to the occasion and are proud to showcase the responsibility that they have gained.

This process teaches students that they can make a difference as a teenager.

Throughout the program, students gain confidence and respect for their peers and community members and also experience the rewarding feeling of helping people in need.”

DISTRICT HOLDS COMMUNITY MEETS FOR THOMPSON REINVENTED Thompson School District has announced a series of five community forums that will be held throughout the district focusing on the proposed “Thompson Reinvented” plan that is under consideration by the TSD Board of Education. The plan was designed by the district’s Master Plan Committee, a Board of Educationestablished standing committee composed of students, community members and staff who meet monthly to review and forecast capital needs in the district. In April 2015, the MPC leadership presented a concept entitled “Thompson Reinvented,” which

utilized a “win-win” strategy to address a wide scope of issues facing the district. The Board of Education charged the MPC to expand the plan and provide a cost estimate for the concept. Architects were engaged to analyze the concepts, estimate project costs and draw general layouts for each element of the plan. On March 9, the Board of Education authorized the Master Plan Committee to share details of the proposed “Thompson Reinvented” plan with members of the Thompson community and to gather feedback. Community forums will be held at the following dates and locations. All forums will be held from 5:30pm to 7pm: • April 13, Berthoud High School Auditorium 850 Spartan Ave., Berthoud • April 14, Loveland High School Auditorium 920 W. 29th St., Loveland • April 19, Coyote Ridge Elementary School Cafeteria 7115 Avondale Rd., Fort Collins • April 21, Thompson Valley High School Auditorium 1669 Eagle Dr., Loveland • April 27, Mountain View High School Auditorium 3500 Mountain Lion Dr., Loveland

At these forums, Master Plan Committee members and TSD staff will provide detailed information and also host a discussion on the proposed plan. To learn more about the “Thompson Reinvented” proposal and to download a copy of the plan, please visit www.thompsonschools. org/thompsonreinvented. For more information on the upcoming community forums or the “Thompson Reinvented”

plan, please contact Michael Hausmann, Thompson School District Public Information Officer, at 613-5011 or at michael. hausmann@thompsonschools.org.

HARRY POTTER DAY Big Thompson Elementary School hosted a “5th-grade Harry Potter Day” recently. The idea came about due to the students’ love for J.K. Rowling’s wondrous stories. Several students organized a petition asking for one day on which they could dress up as their favorite characters from the series. The petition drive ended with 45 signatures and it was then decided to celebrate it on February 12 in order to coincide with the “Fire & Ice Festival,” where a bit of Harry Potter magic found its way into Loveland. Paula DuPré Pesmen, associate producer for three Harry Potter films, and actor Devon Murray, who played Seamus Finnigan, visited the community along with a Ford Anglia exactly like the

one the Weasleys owned in the films.

With all of the excitement happening downtown, February 12th was the perfect day for the students to show off their Harry Potter passion!

SUMMER STEMS PROGRAM FILLING UP Registration for TSD’s “Summer in Thompson-Experiences in Math and Science” program is open and classes are filling up fast!

The STEMS program is an innovative summer environment designed to engage students in learning beyond the classroom, while also learning real-life skills that can be applied to STEM careers and education. STEMS is open to all students currently enrolled in Grades K-8. Out-of-district students are welcome as well. Over 300 students have already signed up. However, there are plenty of classes still available. There are forty-six to choose from, with many of them brand new this year! Registration is open through April 15, with a late registration price increase in effect on April 1st. Students should be registered for classes based on their current grade and not what grade they will be entering in the Fall.

Program Location: Walt Clark Middle School Dates: June 6-10 and June 13-17 Time: 9am-Noon Cost: Classes start at $85 (Discount available for students who qualify for Free & Reduced meals) Class Descriptions and Registration: www.thompsonschools.org/ domain/3432

For questions, registration assistance or other needs, please contact Michelle Stout at 613-5057 or via e-mail at michelle.stout@thompson schools.org.

RMPARENT

| 31

lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary student lunches are $2.45, secondary student lunches are $2.70 and reduced lunches are $0.40. Entrees offered daily: Elementary—a variety of fruits and vegetables, milk and juices; Secondary--hot and cold sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, deli salad and pizza.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1 Cheese or pepperoni pizza; chef salad 4 Potato bar w/chili; chicken patty sandwich 5 Cheese ravioli; chicken bites & roll 6 Asian Teriyaki rice bowl w/chicken; hamburger/cheeseburger 7 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza; tuna salad sub 8 No School!

11 Toasted cheese sandwich & tomato soup; chicken nuggets 12 Spaghetti & roasted veggie meat sauce; turkey gravy & roll 13 Sweet & sour meatballs; chicken patty sandwich

14 Beef tacos & cilantro lime rice; trout treasures 15 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; Mediterranean pasta 18 Sloppy Joe sandwich; mac n’cheese 19 Beef lasagna; cheese calzone dipper w/ marinara 20 Asian noodles w/chicken; grilled chicken sandwich 21 Green chile pork bowl; hamburger/ cheeseburger 22 Meat lovers or cheese pizza; chicken Caesar wrap 25 Taco burger; chicken nuggets 26 Rotini w/roasted spring veggies & chicken; meatball sub 27 Orange chicken & rice; hotdog

28 Bean & cheese burrito; chicken patty sandwich 29 Cheese or pepperoni pizza; chef salad MIDDLE SCHOOLS 1 Tortilla soup bar; Hawaiian pizza 4 Chicken nuggets; BBQ chicken strips sandwich 5 Spaghetti & meatballs; cheese ravioli 6 Asian bar: Teriyaki chicken/beef & egg roll 7 Beef & chicken taco bar 8 No school!

11 Chili cheese dog; chicken bites & roll 12 Rotini w/roasted spring veggies & chicken; beef lasagna 13 Asian bar; orange chicken/beef

14 Beef & bean burrito 15 Turkey gravy & roll; baked chicken & roll 18 Chili cheese dog; chicken bites & roll 19 Spaghetti & roasted veggie meat sauce; meatball sub 20 Asian bar; Sweet chili steak/chicken & egg roll 21 Green chile bowl w/pork or chicken 22 Mac n’cheese; mashed potatoes & chicken bowl 25 Philly cheesesteak beef or chicken 26 Chicken nuggets; penne & meat sauce 27 Asian bar: sweet & sour meatballs/ chicken 28 Beef & bean burrito bar 29 Tortilla soup bar

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1 Manager’s choice 4-8 No school!

11 Grilled chicken sandwich; Caesar salad w/roll 12 Pizza; chicken tender salad 13 Sweet n’sour chicken; chef salad 14 Pasta & meatballs; taco salad 15 Fish & chips basket; garden entrée salad w/goldfish 18 No school!

19 Mac n’cheese; chicken tender salad

20 Hamburger; chef salad 21 Pizza stick; taco salad 22 Chicken w/mashed potatoes & gravy; garden entrée salad w/roll 25 Mini pancakes w/sausage patty; Caesar salad w/roll 26 Chicken fajita wrap; chicken tender salad w/roll 27 Chicken parmesan sandwich; chef salad w/roll 28 Hotdog; taco salad

29 Asian combo; garden entrée salad w/ goldfish SECONDARY SCHOOL 1 Manager’s choice 4-8 No school!

11 Grilled chicken sandwich; hamburger 12 Pizza; pizza stick w/sauce 13 Sweet n’sour chicken; chicken breast strips 14 Pizza; French bread boat 15 Pizza; burrito vriety 18 No school!

19 Mac n’cheese; pizza 20 Hamburger; chicken dipper bites 21 Pizza stick; loaded fries 22 Chicken w/mashed potatoes & gravy; Asian bowl 25 Pancake w/sausage patty; hamburger 26 Chicken fajita wrap; pizza stick 27 Chicken parmesan sandwich; chicken strip basket 28 Hotdog; French bread boat 29 Asian combo; burrito variety

GREELEY DISTRICT 6—To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.55, and middle school lunches are $2.80, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 4 Hamburger/cheeseburger; Italian sub 5 Sloppy Joe; chicken salad sandwich 6 Cheese ravioli w/sauce & breadstick; PBJ 7 Chicken cordon bleu sandwich; ham & cheese wrap 8 Cheese or green chili chicken pizza; PBJ 11 BBQ pork sandwich; beef hoagie 12 Buffalo chix sandwich; Chicken fajita wrap 13 Chicken taco; PBJ 14 Lasagna w/breadstick; turkey & cheese hoagie 15 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 18 Mac n’cheese w/roll; beef hoagie 19 Taco; chicken salad sandwich 20 BBQ chix sandwich; PBJ

21 Bean & cheese burrito w/green chili; ham & cheese wrap 22 Chicken bacon ranch or cheese pizza 25 Teriyaki chicken w/rice; Italian sandwich 26 Cheese enchiladas w/fiesta rice; chicken fajita wrap 27 Breakfast for lunch; PBJ 28 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; turkey & cheese hoagie 29 Cheese or pepperoni pizza; PBJ MIDDLE SCHOOL 4 Hamburger/cheeseburger ; Italian sub 5 Sloppy Joe; chicken salad sandwich 6 Cheese ravioli w/sauce & breadstick; PBJ 7 Chicken cordon bleu sandwich; ham & cheese wrap 8 Cheese or green chili chicken pizza; PBJ 11 BBQ pork sandwich; beef hoagie 12 Buffalo chix sandwich; Chicken fajita wrap

13 Chicken taco; PBJ 14 Lasagna w/breadstick; turkey & cheese hoagie 15 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 18 Mac n’cheese w/roll; beef hoagie 19 Taco; chicken salad sandwich 20 BBQ chix sandwich; PBJ 21 Bean & cheese burrito w/green chili; ham & cheese wrap 22 Chicken bacon ranch or cheese pizza 25 Teriyaki chicken w/rice; Italian sandwich 26 Cheese enchiladas w/fiesta rice; chicken fajita wrap 27 Breakfast for lunch; PBJ 28 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; turkey & cheese hoagie 29 Cheese or pepperoni pizza; PBJ

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT—Price for elementary lunch is $2.65, for middle school students, $2.90. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt.

1 Big Daddy’s cheese pizza; turkey & cheese sub 11 Chicken sandwich; mini cheeseburger 12 Teriyaki chicken; PBJ 13 Cheesy nachos; corndog 14 Pancakes; PBJ 15 Cheese breadstick w/marinara; turkey & cheese sub 18 Mini cheeseburgers

32

| RMPARENT

19 Chicken Alfredo; PBJ 20 Cheese quesadilla; corndog 21 Hamburger; PBJ 25 Cheese breadstick w/marinara; mini cheeseburgers 26 Rotini w/meatballs; PBJ 27 Chicken tacos; corndog 28 Hotdog; PBJ

SECONDARY SCHOOL 1 Turkey club wrap 11 Chicken wings 12 Teriyaki chicken 13 Bean & cheese burrito 14 Pancakes w/sausage patties 15 Steak & cheese sub 18 Breaded beef patty 19 Chicken Alfredo

20 Quesadilla 21 Cheeseburger 22 Pepperoni calzone 25 Philly cheesesteak 26 Baked ravioli 27 Cheese enchilada w/green sauce 28 Wiener wrap 29 Meatball sub

s C lub i n n e T s i w Le NEW

Save Time, Money and

Enjoy Tennis

MEMBER DISCOUNTS

The Way it’s Meant to Be! Save 40% on All Clinics Exclusive Access to Tournaments & Court Time 15% Off at the Pro Shop Just $59.00 per month Covers It All! First 50 Members Receive $50.00 Pro Shop Gift Certificate

MEMBERSHIPS ARE LIMITED.

Visit Our Website for Registration Information.

45 years of providing professional tennis programs.

Be a part of the largest tennis program in No. Colorado

RMPARENT

| 33

APRIL 2016 ONGOING APRIL 2, 9 AND 16 Kids Explore Art Explore and create your own art using various tools and techniques. Wear clothes that can get messy. Grades K-5.

Registration required. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10-11:30am.

970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

APRIL 3 THROUGH 9 Bike Safety Week FC Bikes and Fort Collins Police Services are teaming up to make roads safer for people who bike and people who drive. Increased education and enforcement initiatives will encourage all road users to ride and drive smart. Look for officers and Bicycle Ambassadors throughout town. www.fcgov.com/ bikespring.

APRIL 5 AND 19 Discover Japan Take part in calligraphy and origami, presentations on customs and technology, and quick language lessons.

Presented by the Asian Studies Program at UNC. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 5pm. 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

THROUGH APRIL 9 Press Play This national juried exhibition features artwork created in a variety of print media. “Play” is integral to the theme of the exhibit and can be interpreted widely to include artistic, exploratory, imaginative, athletic, theatrical or anything else. Lincoln Center Art Galleries, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. Tues-Sat-12noon-6pm. 970-416-2737 or www.lctix.com.

APRIL 9 AND 10 Pokémon-Learn to Play Bring your Pokémon cards and learn the basics of the game, as well as how to build your deck to become a Pokémon Whiz! Grades K-5-participants 8 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Locations vary. 1pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

APRIL 9 AND 23 Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market Features a variety of vendors including past favorites and some newcomers.

Opera Galeria, 123 N. College Ave., FC. 9am-1pm. www.nocofoodcluster.com.

APRIL 9 THROUGH 24 19th Annual Student Expressions Attend this exhibit to see artwork from Park District students, grades K-12.

Cultural Arts Council Fine Art Gallery, 423 W. Elkhorn Ave., EP. 12noon-5pm. www.visitestespark.com.

APRIL 16 AND 17 Peter Pan This swashbuckling and high-energy ballet packed with humor will engage toddlers to adults. Everyone is encouraged to dress as their favorite character from the story and join the cast for a group photo following each performance. Ticket prices and times vary. Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. www.lctix.com.

APRIL 20, 27, AND 30, AND MAY 4 AND 11 Pyramid Model Training This training will provide ways to promote the social and emotional development of young children as a means of preventing challenging behaviors. Participants must attend all sessions. Registration required. $50.

Early Childhood Council, 1730 S. College Ave., Ste. 200, FC. Times vary. 970377-3388 or www.ecclc.org.

Hours of Operation: M-Th 8-5pm, Fri 8-4 Fort Collins (970) 493-7442

Loveland (970) 493-7442

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

34

| RMPARENT

Scrumptious Yarns and a fabulous staff to help you with all your knitting needs.

un F s ’ It shy l a r T a It’s cation Edu s ’ t I It’s the

Garbage Garage 1408 West Mountain Ave. Fort Collins (970) 407-1461 mysisterknits.com Hours: Tues. 10 am to 8 pm , Wed. - Sat. 10 am to 5 pm .

Larimer County’s waste & recycling education center at the Larimer County Landfill in Fort Collins

(970) 498-5772 larimer.org/solidwaste

RMPARENT

| 35

APRIL 21 THROUGH MAY 1 Animal Days Bring the entire family to learn about and see the resident baby animals who have arrived for the season, and some who are visiting just for this event. $2.

Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A St., GR. 10am-3pm. 970-350-9223 or www.greeleymuseums.com.

APRIL 28 THROUGH 30 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat This is the irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son. Prices and times vary. Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. www.lctix.com.

THROUGH MAY 2 Scavenger Hunt by Bike Explore Fort Collins by bike! Spring is a perfect time to ride a bike, so grab yours and roll around town on this fun, family friendly and self-paced adventure.

Follow FC Bikes on Facebook and Twitter for weekly clues, or download clues in advance. Complete your entries

by May 2 for a chance to win prizes! www.fcgov.com/bikespring.

THROUGH MAY 4 Parent/Child Yoga Classes Class begins with a story, then the story is retold through the practice of kid friendly yoga poses. Ages 1-5 with an adult. $10/parent. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

MARCH 4 THROUGH JUNE 18 Encounters: Images and Words This display features a father’s poems and photographs for his children conveying the personal significance of the many persons and places he has encountered. Prices vary. Global Village Museum, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 11am-5pm. 970-221-4600 or www. globalvillagemuseum.org.

36

| RMPARENT

SUNDAY, APRIL 3 Can You Beat Beethoven?

The run will begin with Maestro Wes Kenney’s baton launching the opening notes of Beethoven’s 5th Symphony at the race starting line. The goal is to complete the course before the music ends and therefore “beat” Beethoven (approximately 33 minutes). All ages and abilities of runners, walkers and music lovers are welcome to participate. Prices vary. Old Town Square, FC. 9am. www.fcsymphony.org.

MONDAY, APRIL 4 School Out Science This is a hands-on science program for elementary school aged kids. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2-3pm.

970-962-2754 or www.cityofloveland.org.

TUESDAY, APRIL 5 RMNP presents The Mystery of the Stolen Cone 3rd-5th graders are invited to this fun, interactive program presented by RMNP rangers. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 10-11am.

970-962-2754 or www.cityofloveland.org.

Bright by Three Infant Group You have the power to shape your child’s future. This class provides parents and caregivers with educational tools, books and games to make the most of these important developmental years.

Registration required. Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 12noon-1pm. 970-495-7500 or www.uchealth.org.

Discover Japan Join the Asian Studies Program at UNC to learn about Japanese culture and language. There will be handson activities like calligraphy and origami, presentations on customs and technology, and quick language lessons. Presentation is given in English, and Japanese words and phrases are incorporated throughout. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., Ste. 100, GR. 5-6pm. 970-506-8497 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Bicycle Friendly Driver Certification Course Be one of the certified Bicycle Friendly Drivers in Fort Collins. Learn how to safely navigate roads when cyclists are present. Discuss rights and responsibilities for both cyclists and motorists, and how to avoid crashes or conflicts. Ages 16+. Registration required.

Edora Pool Ice Center, 1801 Riverside Ave., FC. 6:30-8pm. 970-221-6987 or www.fcgov.com/bikespring.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6 Spring Book Buzz Attention readers of all ages, book club members and culture vultures!

The biggest, best books for spring and summer are already on the calendar and the library has the details. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

THURSDAY, APRIL 7 Family Movie Night: Tangled When the kingdom’s most wanted bandit, Flynn Rider, hides out in a mysterious tower, he’s taken hostage by Rapunzel, a beautiful and feisty towerbound teen with 70 feet of magical, golden hair. (PG). Carbon Valley Library, Meeting Room, 7 Park Ave., Firestone.

6-7:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Keep Kids Safe on the Internet Hosted by the Fort Collins Police, Poudre School District and Poudre River Public Library District. Topics: Sexual Predators; Online enticement and grooming; Social networking websites; Cyberbully; Email, Instant Messaging (IM), Smartphones and Sexting. Class also offered in Spanish. Old Town Library, Community Room Combo, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 8 School’s Out Day Camp Pack a lunch and spend a day gardening, composting, cooking, crafting and discovering. Grades K-5. Registration required. $45. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9am-4pm.

970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

RMPARENT

| 37

Giant Friends Club Play at the accessible Inspiration Playground at this special event. This month’s theme is “Colorful Colorado” and features exciting activites, entertainment and more for a giagantic good time. Inspiration Playground, 3156 S. Overland Trail, FC. 10:30am. www.fcgov.com.

Curso Bilingüe de Costura Para Principantes/Bilingual Sewing Class for Beginners Join in as you learn the basics of using a sewing machine and then work on creating a special pillowcase. Registration required.

Class is taught in English and Spanish.

Kersey Library, 413 1st St., Kersey. 6pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

SATURDAY, APRIL 16 Cycling with Children Discuss the benefits of cycling with children, kid friendly gear, safety considerations, route selection, how to teach kids the rules of the road. Ages 16+. Raintree Athletic Club, 2555 S. Shields St., FC. 10-11:30am. www.fcgov.com/bikespring.

The Presidents!

The 2016 CU Boulder Theatre Tour, a faculty organized, student-led team that includes a director, a playwright/adapter, designers, stage manager and cast will present this musical romp through history that covers 44 presidents in 45 minutes. Locations and times vary. 888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13 Rocky Mountain Raptors Spring is the time of year when changes come about in the animal kingdom, as well as our own. Meet some wild neighbors and learn what we humans can do to make these families feel safe and comfortable in the wild. Council Tree Library, Community Room (C), 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-7:30pm.

970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

Laurie Berkner: Award-winning Children’s Musician Best-selling, award-winning children’s musician Laurie Berkner has been a longtime fixture on TV’s Nick Jr. and Sprout channels. She is the uncrowned queen of children’s music. Prices vary.

Rialto Theater Center, 228 E Fourth St., LV. 11am. 970-962-2120 or www.rialtotheatercenter.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 9 World Language Storytime: French A time of children’s stories, crafts, puppets, and music presented by PRPLD staff and CSU French students and staff, that invites fluent speakers, as well as those interested in a new language, to enjoy a morning in community and family. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 10-11am. 970-221-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

Families Matter: Emergency Preparedness Would you be ready if a disaster strikes? Planning today will help you be prepared for tomorrow. Presented

by Weld County Office of Emergency Management. Social time and snacks provided after the presentation. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 11am.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12 Robotics This class offers an introduction to EV3 Robotics with hands-on building and programming in a non-competitive environment. Registration required.

Ages 8-17. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4-6pm. 970-962-2548 or www.cityofloveland.org.

38

| RMPARENT

Cycle Touring Basics Go by bike on your next faraway adventure. Learn about which bikes, panniers and trailers are great for cycle touring. Discuss clothing, camping, training and bike touring maps, plus other essential touring resources. Ages 14+. Registration required. Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Drive, FC. 6:30-8pm. www.fcgov.com/bikespring.

THURSDAY, APRIL 14 Watercolor Mugs See what paint designs water can create on your new custom mug. Grades 6-12.

Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4-5pm. 970-062-2548 or www.cityofloveland.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 15 Ernest Cline talks Ready Player One and Armada Bestselling Sci-Fi author Ernest Cline will talk about his books and his upcoming partnership with Steven Spielberg. He will sign books after the talk. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. #200, FC. 6:30pm. 970-484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Linda Black Elk – Healing with Medicinal Plants Linda Black Elk from Sitting Bull College in Fort Yates, North Dakota, will talk about the indigenous plants and their healing properties. Attendees can make lip balm from native plants to take home. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 1pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Dancing in the Street Four-year-olds! Join in with your family to celebrate this year’s winner of One Book 4 Colorado and get a free book.

Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

World Peace Day This family friendly activity incorporates meditation, yoga, peace activities, music and wholesome, nourishing food. Om Ananda Yoga Studio, 115 N. College Ave., Ste. 200, FC. 2-7:30pm. www.omanandayoga.com.

MONDAY, APRIL 18 World Dance and Drumming Go on a musical adventure combining geography, arts and culture. Children will travel around the world as they learn about drums and dancing from diverse cultures. Erie Library, Meeting Room, 400 Powers St., Erie. 12noon-1pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

RMPARENT

| 39

Everyday Cycling Learn the benefits of using a bike everyday, whether to work, school, errands or socializing. Discuss tips and tricks, and brush up on your skills for warmer weather riding. Ages 10+.

Registration required. Northside Aztlan Center, 112 Willow St., FC. 6:30-8pm. www.fcgov.com/bikespring.

THURSDAY, APRIL 21 PEEPs – Pre-School Environmental Education Programs Each one-hour program offers information and activities to bring children into the world of nature. Topic this month: Are Beavers Really Busy?

Namaqua Park, 730 N. Namaqua Ave., LV. 9:30-10:30am & 11am-12noon.

970-962-2643 or www.cityofloveland.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 23 Earth Day Fort Collins Earth Day is a combination of activities and events for the entire family, featuring informational booths and displays, arts and crafts, live music, speakers, local food and a beer garden.

Civic Center Park, FC. 11am-5pm. www.sustainablelivingassociation.org.

Plarn Bags Have you ever wondered what to do with those plastic bags used to deliver your newspaper? Turn these useless things into colorful reusable bags with a crochet hook.

Registration required. Council Tree Library, Community Room (C), 2733 Council Tree Ave. #200, FC. 1-3pm. 970-2216740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

Makeit: Silkscreen Printing You will learn the basics of do it yourself screen printing. Bring a t-shirt, tote bag or apron that you’d like to add a design to.

Ages 13+. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater The Popovich Comedy Pet Theater is a family oriented blend of the unique comedy and juggling skills of Gregory Popovich, and the extraordinary talents of his performing pets. Prices vary.

Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 2pm & 6pm. www.lctix.com.

40

| RMPARENT

MONDAY, APRIL 25 Money Smart Week – College Funding 101 Explore a variety of options that are available for funding higher education.

Topics include federal financial aid, student loans, 529 plans, scholarship, grants and local programs. Harmony Library, Community Room (H), 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1:30-2:45pm. 970-2048429 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

TUESDAY, APRIL 26 Curiosity on Mars: Trailblazing the Path for Humans Join Dr. Doug Ming, chief scientist for the Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science Division at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, in this interesting public talk.

CSU, Plant Sciences Building C101, 307 University Ave., FC. 7-8pm. www.poudrelibraries.org.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27 Young Artists’ Art Show Experience the delightful works of art created by young artists in the Messy Hands Art for Preschoolers, Kids Explore Art and ImagineArt spring programs. Hosted by the FRCC Art Education Department. Harmony Library, Community Room (H), 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 3:30-5:30pm.

970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

Champion Rhymer Returns Can you outwit the champion rhymer of Lincoln Park? Submit challenge words to try to stump him, and win acclaim and fabulous prizes. If you’re really brave, you can try it yourself. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Riverside Music Mixer Are your favorite playlists starting to gather dust? Do you ever wonder what other people are listening to in their headphones? Libraries always have book clubs; be part of the first music club!

Sense of adventure and sense of humor highly recommended. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 6pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Muse: A Poetry Circle Bring your own poems or your favorites written by others and become one of the voices to share and savor the wit, wisdom, comfort and beauty that springs from the human imagination when muse meets verse. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 7pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

FRIDAY, APRIL 29 Battle of the Bards To celebrate National Poetry Month, join in for the Battle of the Bards Poetry Reading Program. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 30 Kids and Media Devices Your kids know more about the new world of digital technology than parents and caregivers. How can you guide them in their choices and use? Join in this interactive and fun discussion. Old Town Library, Community Room Combo, 201 Peterson St., FC. 10-11:30am.

970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

Spring Into Green Celebrate Earth Day with ideas to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Repurpose.

There will be displays, demonstrations, prizes and giveaway vendor merchandise booths and food. Foote Lagoon, 500 E. Third St., LV. 10am-3pm. 970-962-2549 or www.cityofloveland.org.

Independent Bookstore Day Old Firehouse Books will host a special story time and a party that afternoon, as well as giveaways and limited release items throughout the day. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC.10:30amStory time; 2-3pm-Party. 970-484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Frida’s Fashion Comes to Life Celebrate Día de los Niños in a very unique way. Poudre River Public Library District and Tuana Hair Design are partnering to celebrate Children’s Day by promoting the world of books, stories and art through the eyes of Frida Kahlo.

Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 6-8pm. www.poudrelibraries.org.

RMPARENT

| 41

time out Trying to avoid The Talk Intimate conversations with kids

LEA HANSON

W

hen it comes to discussing sex, consent, and body image with my daughter, I’ve done my best to avoid “the talk.” I try to avoid discussing these topics in one memorable, sit-down, awkward conversation that might cause my daughter to cringe every time she recollects “the talk”.

Instead, I try to have a million little talks; I address topics as they come up.

My daughter is 5 and we’ve had conversations about the basics regarding menstruation, sex, where babies come from (and how they get out!), secrets, and all the topics of good touch/bad touch.

My goal is that these conversations feel comfortable and not embarrassing.

We use words like ‘vagina’ and ‘penis’ in appropriate context. My daughter sees menstruation supplies and basically gets why they’re there. She also is fully aware that “she is the boss of her body” (that’s the phrase we repeatedly use) and she can say “yes” and “no” to actions and activities that involve her body.

As you see, we’re totally perfect and enlightened in all the ways. Scratch that, actually; we’re not.

I recently bought the book, It’s Not the Stork!: A Book About Girls, Boys, Babies, Bodies, Families, and Friends by Robie Harris. It was my dream to sit down and devour it with my daughter little by little, page by page, topic by topic. The book came in the mail and here’s how it went down: I said, “Look! You got some mail!” She was pumped and we opened the package together. I read the title to her and she was immediately horrified. I said, “We can read this book together to learn!” and she just stared at me.

I was expecting an apathetic response coupled with a willingness to read the book. Instead, she said, “I want some alone time,” and took the book to her room, closed the door, and sat in there for about five minutes. When she came 42

| RMPARENT

out, I asked her if she had any questions and she said, “No.” Then I asked her if we could read a few pages of the book that evening and she said, “No.” I could tell she felt embarrassed.

She didn’t want to read it. This was a few months ago and she still doesn’t want to read it. Instead, the book just sits lonely on her bookshelf. Every week or so as we’re choosing books for bedtime, I ask her, “Do you want to read a few pages from the book about bodies?” and she says, “No.” And, because I value consent and believe that since she’s the boss of her body I should respect her unwillingness to discuss her body in this way, I don’t push it.

I understand she’s only 5 and she’s already got a lot of basic information,

but I can’t help but feel her reluctance to read the book is some reflection of my mothering gone wrong. We’re all horrified by our mothers, but isn’t this too early? Have I already missed the boat?

I desperately want open, honest conversation to exist between my daughter and me. I don’t want to her tell me everything throughout her life but I do want her to know that she CAN tell me everything and ask me anything.

I don’t really want to be cool, and I don’t want to be her friend. I want to be her mom. A (sometimes cool) mom with whom she can have open communication that’s not embarrassing. So, I’ll keep asking if she wants to read the book… and hopefully one of these days I’ll get an enthusiastic “Yes.”

Book your child’s dental exam today!

FREE EXAM

for children under 2!

A general dentistry practice that’s all about kids and young adults, ages 0-20!

970-635-4353

126 East 29th Street Loveland

www.kindergrins.com Monday - Thursday 8-5

$75 New Patient Exam Includes Exams, Cleaning, Fluoride, X-Rays.

One coupon per patient. New patients only and without insurance. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit.

Expires: 4/30/16 RMP0416

FREE light-up toothbrush for NEW patients One coupon per family. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit.

Expires: 4/30/16 RMP0416

RMPARENT

| 43

44

| RMPARENT