RM Parent Magazine |DECEMBER | 2019

DECEMBER 2019 • RMPARENT.COM

FROM GETTING

TO GIVING:

redefining the season

Holiday highlights Where does

FOOD

come from?

Winter fun

INSIDE

Craft some gifts Toys that teach HEALTH TIPS

for winter

FESTIVE! Holiday Calendar & Santa Sightings RMPARENT

|1

We Pay Fall Savings CA$H for on

Coats and Hats!

Kids’ Stuff!

Inventory Changes Daily • Toys Wanted!

Recycle

Buy

Sell

(970) 266-9999 | onceuponachild.com | M 4519 College Avenue, Fort Collins, CO

C

P

g in ! at rs r b a ele e

y 25

Northern Colorado’s only nonprofit speech and language clinic specializing in childhood speech, language and reading development.

970-419-0486

www.csrckids.org

WE OFFER: • Screenings & Evaluations • Speech and Language Therapy • Reading Development • Early Childhood Literacy • Scholarships and sliding-scale fees for incomes up to 100k • Medicaid Provider

Fort Collins: 1330 Oakridge Drive, #10 Loveland: 1511 E. 11th Street, # 290

2

| RMPARENT

LASER TAG NOW OPEN! FORT COLLINS LASER TAG NOW OPEN! ESTES PARK LASER TAG NOW OPEN! FORT COLLINS North College Lanes GREELEY 555 S St Vrain Ave BROOMFIELD Horsetooth Lanes 830 N College Classic Lanes (970) 586-8625 100 Nickel St 217 W Horsetooth (970) 484-4777 2454 8th Ave (303) 466-9700 (970) 226-6327 (970) 353-4275

RMPARENT

|3

New Clinic is Now Open 1330 Oakridge Drive Suite 105 Fort Collins CO 80525

Every BODY, Every ABILITY!

BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS THERAPY WITH KADIANT Classes and performance opportunities available for ages 4 and up, for all abilities and levels.

Affordable rates and scholarships available. FREE TRIAL CLASS!

Fall registration is open!

970.980.8425 www.FRCBallet.com

3501 South Mason Street Unit 1, Fort Collins

Let me help you on your

Health Journey Diana Sproul

SPECIALIZING IN: • digestion • inflammation • immunity

• food allergies • detox • others

(970) 988-5413 • TransformHealth.Biz ContactUs@TransformHealth.Biz

4

| RMPARENT

• Health Coaching • Nutritionist • Herbalist • Energy Medicine

Discover the best Applied Behavior Analysis with Kadiant.

Our Board-Certified Behavior Analysts and Behavior Technicians are experienced, networked and ready to provide the support you need.

We provide a variety of services to fit your needs, including: • In-home and clinic-based ABA service • Formal evaluation and assessments • Parent training seminars We are an in-network • Self-help and daily life skills provider for most major • Behavior management insurance companies

Call Us at

1-866-523-4268

Or visit Kadiant.com to learn about ABA

and Medicaid

DECEMBER 2019

Departments PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Deep breath…and flow—Slowing down helps us to appreciate the season

AS WE GROW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Shopping for baby?— Consider toys that teach

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Holiday highlights—Grab the family and enjoy some holiday fun

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

Special Sections WINTER FUN INSIDE

WINTER FU

N INSIDE

Explore the possibilities for this winter and see what programs these providers have for your families.

A DV E RT I

SING SU PPLE

Get crafty—Create gifts and decorations together

MENT

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 Opportunities abound—Health insurance, childcare, suicide prevention, children’s theatre and outdoor exercise

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . . 16

Health tips for winter—Simple things to combat germs

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 0 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 6 The case of the missing tooth—Back off Dad, I’ve got this

Features 18 WHERE DOES FOOD COME FROM?

Help kids understand where their food comes from. Visit a farm, talk to a grower, plant and grow your own food, map the origin of your food, eat seasonal foods and talk about where meat comes from. Learning about food helps kids appreciate their choices better.

20 FROM GETTING School District News GR-E 6 School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 District 6 open enrollment, student collects warm clothing for homeless, D6 apprenticeship earns national recognition

TO GIVING

Remember the base of all holiday celebrations: compassion, generosity, gratitude and kindness. Find ways to celebrate the holidays that don’t center around gift-gorging.

Poudre School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Students honor veteran experiences, Linton students learn from career day

Thompson School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Thompson Education Foundation accepting nominations for educators of the year awards, open enrollment, Loveland High School Crimson Regiment state champions

ABOUT THE COVER: Tommy loves art, cats, playing with legos, audio books and hot chocolate. Photo shot on location by Cheri Schonfeld, courtesy of Sky's Open Design. www.skysopendesign.com

RMPARENT

|5

perspective Generosity Deep breath…and flow

learning,down being andus doing Slowing helps to appreciate the season

A W

young me infor a parking e’re man goingapproached to give presents the lot holidays. yesterday.That kind of goes with the “My family I are territory.

But and maybe thestaying biggestover gift there and if we could up get with five dollars we could we give isn’t wrapped paper and bows get borrow a pizza.from If wethe could get ten weiscould get (to Grinch) but something two and that itwould cover us.” together and more.

Could be that coming I hadtime no idea wasis true. spending withwhether friends his andstory family the He looked though heanother? was living rough, true gift weasgive to one I think we though—gaunt, cheeks, despairing all know that, butsunken as we’re speeding around eyes.

Withoutthe hesitation, I pulled myour wallet finding right presents for out all of people, and handedwe him ten bucks. don’tdown knowand justappreciate why I didwhat it. Hemakes wasn’tthe sometimes forget to just Islow threatening.

He wasn’t over imploring. He just seemed to really need a season the season. boostAnd right interacting withtime him together, right there a couple feet as then longand as we’re spending let’s make of it good away, special I just felt it was a moment. time, time.

Let’s be there and be focused, not just putting in It’s not thatatI’m a mission givewe’re awayoutta all of here! our money. our two hours theon in-laws andto then I meanI walk as and drive by plenty are let’s asking for a that little we’ll push.do And long as we’re going of topeople go overwho there, decide ourI’m not driven to help others by a sense of guilt or didn’t even a vote feeling being best to connect with everyone…even if they theofsame luckyyou enough to have it and these others don’t and so therefore my way did! Let’s just be glad that we’re all here and we haveit’sthe social obligation to do it. Nor do I get a big sense of satisfaction. I have opportunity to get together. a hard pinpointing why I feel compelled help out sometimes, Thetime ol’ attitude of gratitude matters.

Just to making another trip whetherthe scooping fortoa share neighbor or stopping push is a car, around sun anda sidewalk being able another holiday to season no and other times so much.that we can get together. But to do that, small thing.

Let’snot appreciate Every neighbor with his air compressor we need to fall, slowa down and of getours our comes minds by wrapped around a sense that and blows sprinkler lines.

Heway makes theyou’re rounds in ourin the things will out flowour how they flow.

That when waiting corner of theatneighborhood and and gets the everyone for of winter.

He 16 express lane the grocery store personready in front you has doesn’tinstead ask forofanything.

He just does it because can.and It isjust notlet a it items the required 15 or fewer, you canherelax transactional go, let it flow. offer in any way.

Theresa Baer writestoo, thistomonth her Learn It’s a great season, think in about othersand whoLive are column less about teaching children tolong be generous to volunteer.

She let’s also extend offers fortunate than we are. As as we’re and in the giving mood, sometoideas about The idea iswe to do helpknow children be that people we where mightand not how. know, because that to they aware use of others’ could a littleneeds lift. and to understand that they, themselves, have something offer.

So, thistoissue is packed with holiday info and activities. I think goal is for them, really all of us, We to not justa do generosity thereThe is literally something for everyone. have calendar of as an activity events that weand have come toplus understand as something thatActivities we should holiday activities, Santa visits.

Our Family do because we’re enough to something andand those other department offerslucky a cornucopia of have holiday highlights Learn & Live people struggling.

Wherefor we’re headed this Grow is for our tells youare where to get crafty the really holidays.

Andwith As We looks children to see people are just feature like theyshares are, who just want to beto at toys that teach.

Andwho our holiday thoughts on how happyour just as they from do and who don’t wantfor to the feel season bad just as beyond. they don’t shift thinking getting to giving and wantI to.

We want to get beyond the them and us feelings.

We don’t just hope that you’ll find something in this issue that will help make drop holidays money ina alittle can better and walk Wefun. stop.But Wemainly talk and engage with your andby. more that’s up to you, people who are just us. to do. no matter what you like choose In the end, we want to be generosity, not just do generosity, though Happy holidays, the path Scottto being generosity, it seems, lies through the path of doing generosity.

‘Tis the season, Scott

6 | RMPARENT

OCTOBER 2019 DECEMBER 2019••Volume Volume24, 24,Issue Issue67 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Susan Hartig susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com COVER PHOTO Cheri Schonfeld, Courtesy of Sky’s Open Design - skysopendesign.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Lynn U. Tony Nichols Lynn U. Nichols, Pennington

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Mountain Parent Parent magazine magazine is is published published Rocky monthly by

by Rocky Rocky Mountain Mountain Publishing, Publishing, Inc. Inc. monthly Publication of of this this paper paper does does not not consitute consitute an an enenPublication dorsement of of the the products products or or services services advertised. advertised. dorsement RMP reserves reserves the the right right to to refuse refuse any any advertiseadvertiseRMP ment for for any any reason. reason. The The opinions opinions expressed expressed by by ment contributors or or writers writers do do not not necessarily necessarily reflect reflect contributors the opinions opinions of of Rocky Rocky Mountain Mountain Publishing.

Publishing. the ©2019 Rocky Rocky Mountain Mountain Publishing, Publishing, Inc. Inc. All All rights rights ©2019 reserved. Reproduction Reproduction without without express express written written reserved. permission is is prohibited. prohibited. permission

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

RMPARENT

|7

as we grow

Shopping for baby?

Consider toys that teach

LY NN U. NICHOLS

W

hen your baby squeals with delight simply from emptying the cupboards and finding plastic food containers and wooden spoons to play with, it’s hard to convince yourself that you really need to buy her a bunch of toys this holiday season. That’s why a few choice toys will do. Focus on toys that provide the most bang for their buck when it comes to helping her develop her motor skills and brain power.

SAFETY FIRST Before anything else, make sure the toy is safe. Babies put everything in their mouths—as you know—so checking what toys are made from is a priority. Cheap plastic toys can contain chemicals, like phthalates, that disrupt your little sweetie’s endocrine system and are even linked to cancer. Look for toys labeled PVC-free, BPA-free, non-toxic and lead-free. They may cost a little more but they are well worth it. Also, it’s safest to buy toys that don’t have small parts that can break off.

COLOR IT UP Around five months, babies became really interested in looking at bright colors and contrasting colors. Choose toys that stimulate them visually, as well as offer the opportunity to learn simple shapes.

GET ACTIVE If your baby is nearing a year, it’s time to stimulate their large muscles with push and pull toys, large balls and soft jungle gym items to crawl on. Babies are deep into exploration mode once they turn one, so consider toys that have dials, knobs, lids, holes and other items that demand action.

If you don’t already have one, consider a toy car or lawn mower for active play.

PRETEND PLAY FOR CREATIVITY Babies learn to solve problems and understand their world through creative 8

| RMPARENT

play. Older babies and toddlers love to pretend, whether it’s pushing a baby in a carriage, talking on the phone, having their stuffed animals talk to each other or dressing up. Imaginative, free play helps babies learn the building blocks of critical thinking and creativity.

Speaking of blocks, they are a great choice especially interlocking ones that can be used to make a variety of things.

Don’t forget fun art supplies like finger paints, washable crayons, non-toxic markers and large chalk. Toys with different textures, including water toys, add extra stimulation.

BOOKS FOR BIG BRAINS Parents who read to their babies give them a head start with vocabulary and reading skills for when they enter kindergarten. Start young with picture books, saying the name of an object long before your baby can even talk. Some of the top board books of 2019 for babies include Black & White by Tana Hoban, You are Light by Aaron Becker, Baby Sees Colors! by Akio Kashiwara, and Moo, Baa, La La La! by Sandra Boynton.

MAKE SOME NOISE! Babies love to surprise themselves with their ability to make noise—and see the reaction they get from others. From early on, babies love to babble and screech. You can’t go wrong with musical instruments like mini drums and tambourines. Toys that make noise with bells, rattles, talking or singing are also popular with babies, but if the toy does all the work and all they do is watch it, it’s not stimulating their brain. Look for simple toys with noise where the sound is related to a specific action that your baby takes.

IMITATE LIFE Toys that imitate the real stuff of life—like doll houses with doors that open and close, pretend cell phones, riding cars, dish sets, toy keys, mini vacuums and more are appealing to older babies because they like to imitate what you do. It helps them learn how their world works.

If you approach this holiday with these ideas in mind—instead of getting sucked in by the latest toy display—you’ll find toys that not only pique your baby’s interest, but also enhance her or his development.

Everything you need, IN STOCK

• Dance Shoes • Dance Wear • Pointe Shoes (fitter in-house) • Multi-child Discount • College Discount

POINTE SHOE

Special 15% OFF 20% OFF

ONE PAIR TWO PAIR

24% OFF

BULK

Must present coupon.

Not valid with any other offers.

Exp 1/31/19

970-691-0091

645 Denver Ave., Loveland www.EncoreDanceEmporium.com

RMPARENT

|9

family activities

Holiday highlights

Grab the family and enjoy some holiday fun KATIE HARRIS

N

orthern Colorado is packed this holiday season with twinkling lights, Christmas carols, marching bands and of course, Santa himself.

Get in the spirit of the season with one of these family-friendly holiday events!

Head to Berthoud Dec. 11-14th for Snowfest, a winter event centered around the Colorado Snow Sculpting Championship and including a lighted parade, artisan market, kids sculpting contest, mounted caroling and more!

Professional snow sculpting will begin on Dec. 11th on the west side of Fickel Park, located on 7th St., and the kids sculpting contest will take place on Dec. 12th at 3:30pm (registration required by visiting www.berthoudcolorado.com/ snowfest-signups?edtest=dur). The artisan market will take place on Dec. 14th in New Freedom Outreach Center at 250 Mountain Ave. and the parade will also be held on Dec. 14th. For more information, visit www.berthoudsnowfest.com.

The Gardens on Spring Creek at 2145 Centre Ave. in Ft. Collins will host their annual Garden of Lights this month. This year’s event promises to be even better than in years past, with a new, expanded show. Admire thousands of LED lights adorning the gardens, including new color blossoms, and more family-friendly entertainment than ever before. For details visit www.fcgov.com/ gardens/garden-of-lights.

Also in Fort Collins, enjoy a sneak preview of the CSU Marching Band’s 2019 9NEWS Denver Parade of Lights performance as they take to the CSU Oval on Dec. 5th at 6pm. Spectators will have the opportunity to see the band in their own backyard during this final dress rehearsal before they lead the Denver parade the following evening. For details visit downtownfortcollins.com/event/ parade-of-lights-preview-free/.

10

| RMPARENT

Greeley will host its 30th annual Christmas Party this year on Dec. 14th from 10am-1pm at the Rodarte Center at 920 A St. Kids will have the opportunity to create a holiday craft, partake in a seasonal treat, visit with Santa and even receive a gift.

To learn more, visit www.greeleyrec. com/facilities/rodarte-communitycenter/#event|rodarte-communitychristmas-party|16937.

At the Chapungu Sculpture Park, located just east of the Promenade Shops at Centerra in Loveland, guests can view a Winter Wonderlights exhibit through Jan. 1st. Thirty-minute light and music shows begin every half hour from 5-9pm and feature six carols along with string lights, LED snowflakes, and a 20-foot LED Christmas tree. To learn more visit www.visitlovelandco.org/event/winterwonderlights-2/2019-12-22/.

Also returning to Loveland this year, the Christmas Walk in the Woods will take place in the Savage Woods, located at 1750

Savage Rd. Enjoy twinkling lights in a beautiful outdoor setting and, on weekends, enjoy holiday tunes performed by carolers and visit with Santa himself ! Learn more at www. christmaswalkinthewoods.com.

Visit Timnath this month for its Holiday Lighting Festival, taking place on Dec. 6th from 5-7pm in Old Town Timnath. Santa Claus will help Mayor Grossman-Belisle light up Main Street to kick off the event, which will also include carriage rides, ornament making, holiday performances, face painting, hot food and beverages, and photos with Santa. For more information visit www.timnath.org/ holiday-lighting-festival-2019.

On Dec. 7th from noon-5pm the Town of Windsor will host its Windsor Wonderland event, complete with a tree lighting ceremony, holiday performances, seasonal treats, and of course, Santa Claus. For details visit www.facebook.com/events/ boardwalk-park-in-windsor/windsorwonderland/2181196872180578.

RMPARENT

| 11

learn and live

Get crafty

Make gifts and decorations together THERESA BAER

S

eeking to spend more quality time with your kids this holiday season?

Working together on crafts or baking sweet treats provides not only shared family time but also gifts and decorations from the kids that are made from the heart.

Kids love spending time with you and they love to make crafts. Why not combine the two and give your kids the opportunity to make special gifts for their loved ones this holiday season?

You can always find kids’ craft or gift ideas online—try searching “homemade gifts for grandparents” for instance.

COMMUNITY EVENTS Look to the community calendar later in this issue (and every month!) for festivals and holiday lighting displays that often include crafts to do. For instance, the Greeley Festival of Trees runs through December 6 at Union Colony Civic Center and offers various activities for all ages. Learn more at www.greeleygov. com/activities/fot/festival-of-trees.

Greeley also hosts an annual Community Christmas Party on Saturday, December 14 at the Rodarte Community Center, where those ages 12 and under can make a festive craft—and receive a gift!

Loveland’s Winter Wonderlights has several fun, free activities that include cookie decorating, making crafts and so much more. The overall event runs through January 1. Check their website for specific dates and times at www. visitlovelandco.org/winterwonderlights.

LIBRARY & MUSEUM CLASSES Our community calendar also lists several free events and classes for all ages at local libraries such as Santa’s workshop events, gingerbread house making, gift parties, ugly sweater making and more. The Loveland Museum & Gallery offers classes for tots 12

| RMPARENT

Find the craft around you Look for crafty classes or workshops offered at your city recreation departments, plus free holiday events at community centers, libraries or museums.

with parents or youth on their own to explore paints, pastels, clay and more.

CITY RECREATION DEPARTMENTS The City of Fort Collins recreation department offers two affordable options this month for teens ages 16 and up. Look for the “Holiday Gift Making Workshop” on December 4 and 11 or the “Holiday Treats” class on December 12 in the Winter Recreator magazine or online at www.fcgov. com/recreator. The City of Loveland recreation department has a youth cooking class on December 8 called “Let’s Bake for the Holidays” for ages 6–13, and next year, look for the a “Holiday Clay for Youth” class where kids in grades 1–6 can make ornaments and more, beginning in November.

RETAILERS Many retailers offer opportunities for kiddos to make a little something for themselves or perhaps a parent or grandparent. Both Joann Fabrics and Michaels craft stores offer kids’ classes.

Check their websites for classes, events or kits to do at home. Home Depot has workshops for parents and kids to build something together.

You could also visit a paint-yourown-pottery studio such as Artisan You in Loveland or Color Me Mine, Create a Craft or Flutterby Ceramics in Fort Collins. Local nurseries offer workshops and open houses as well.

Whether you’re crafty or not and no matter what you choose, take the time to enjoy the moment with your children and let them express their creative ideas. Yes, there will likely be a mess to clean up and projects may not turn out how you envisioned, but the time spent together provides an appreciation of family and life-long memories.

Spend More Time With Your Family,

Not In Your Doctor’s Office.

Arktos Direct Care is a Direct Primary Care clinic focused on providing a better patient experience.

BENEFITS OF DPC:

• No Waiting For Appointments • Schedule Same-day or Next-day Appointments • Extended Office Visits • No Co-Pays • No Deductibles • Call, Text, or Video Chat with Your Personal Doctor • In-Office Dispensed Prescriptions • Wholesale Cost Labs, Imaging, and Medications • All Primary Care Services Included in your Monthly Membership Fee

Arktos Direct Care: Your

Doctor, On Your Time, Every Time

CALL TO SET UP YOUR FREE CONSULTATION. Kyle N Hampton, DO

970-818-2280

arktosdirectcare.com | 3938 JFK Parkway, Fort Collins

RMPARENT

| 13

community news Opportunities abound

Health insurance, childcare, suicide prevention, theatre and outdoor exercise THERESA BAER

WALK-IN ASSISTANCE FOR HEALTH INSURANCE ENROLLMENT Open Enrollment for health insurance in Colorado runs until January 15, 2020. Larimer Health Connect, a program of the Health District of Northern Larimer County, is a free service that helps people find the best options for health insurance to meet their family’s health needs and budget.

Trained staff provide free, impartial, inperson assistance with free and lowercost health insurance plans. Walk-in events are open to the public from 9am until 2pm on Saturdays, December 7 and 14 and Sunday, December 15 at 144 N. Mason Street, Unit 7 in Fort Collins. No appointment is necessary and individuals will be helped on a first come, first serve basis. To learn more, call 970-472-0444 or visit www.larimerhealthconnect.org.

HIGH PLAINS LIBRARY DISTRICT BUYS GREELEY TRIBUNE BUILDING The High Plains Library District (HPLD) Board recently approved the purchase of the Greeley Tribune Building located at 501 8th Avenue in Greeley as part of its larger effort to expand services throughout the District.

Throughout their strategic planning process, the need for a robust downtown library in Greeley became apparent and the HPLD Board will continue to rely on community input in developing the library, which they hope to be somewhat operational within the next year. Learn more at www.mylibrary.us.

COLORADO GIVES DAY IS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Schedule your nonprofit donation today for the 10th anniversary of this annual statewide movement to celebrate and increase philanthropy in Colorado.

To find nonprofits to support, visit 14

| RMPARENT

www.coloradogives.org and search by name/keyword, location or cause. By donating within that 24-hour window (beginning at 12:01am MST on Tuesday, December 10), your donation can be boosted through the $1.5 million Incentive Fund made possible

by Community First Foundation, FirstBank and other community members. It’s also possible to set up recurring donations throughout the year or give eCards to that person on your shopping list that already has everything. Introduce your kids to the joy of giving through the fun online site at www.coloradogives.org/kids for where they can discover local nonprofits and learn how they can help.

NEW PRESCHOOL IN FORT COLLINS The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy, one of the nation’s largest childcare and early education providers,

brings an additional childcare opportunity to Fort Collins with the groundbreaking of its second facility in the city. Expected to open in the spring of 2020, the Sunshine House at Bucking Horse will be located near the intersection of Drake Road and Timberline Road at 2482 Miles House Avenue. They expect to hire at least 35 teachers for the facility accommodating approximately 175 students ranging in age from 6 weeks to 12 years. For more information, visit www.sunshinehouse. com/center/bucking-horse.

MOBILE HEALTH SERVICE LAUNCHES IN LOVELAND The Loveland Care-A-Van program is a partnership of many northern Colorado healthcare providers and the Loveland Housing Authority.

The program provides a mobile clinic that brings medical professionals to

help those in need in low-income neighborhoods. These professionals deliver complimentary on-site services such as flu shots and wellness screenings to the community as a whole with emphasis on residents of the Loveland Housing Authority. Visit www.facebook. com/lovelandcareavan for event dates, locations and time.

NEW GREELEY SKATEPARKS In 2018, the City of Greeley began the process of creating a network of three modern concrete skateparks strategically located to allow the majority of Greeley residents easy access. Designs were based on community input to incorporate features that encourage a variety of wheel sports. Work began this past summer on the following: A brand new, expansive modern street-style plaza at 3rd Street and 11th Avenue; Rebuilding Centennial Skatepark to create a flow and transition-oriented facility; A versatile skate spot retrofit at Peak View Park. Learn more online at www. playgreeley.com/skategreeley or wheel on over to experience them first hand.

NEW TRAIL CONNECTION IN LOVELAND A new paved trail connection in east Loveland provides access to Old St. Louis Natural Area from neighborhoods to the north—lying north of the Farmers Irrigation Ditch at

705 S. Madison Avenue. Made possible through donations, land deeded by Larimer County, and a grant from the Colorado Health Foundation, the connection supports intergenerational physical activity—especially for students of Winona Elementary and residents of the Mirasol Senior Community and surrounding neighborhoods. The quarter-mile paved connection is ADA accessible providing visitors with physical constraints an opportunity to connect with nature and view wildlife such as songbirds, raptors, wild turkey, mink and white-tailed deer. Parking, site information and maps are available at a small trailhead area at 1010 S. St. Louis Avenue.

CONNECTIONS OFFERS SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING A partnership of the Health District and SummitStone Health Partners,

Connections offers options and support to individuals and families looking for help with mental health or substance use concerns. On Tuesday, December 10th from noon to 1pm, Connections will offer a QPR training, which stands for Question, Persuade and Refer. This hour-long suicide prevention training covers warning signs and how to question people about suicide, persuade them to accept professional help, and refer them to community resources. To register for a QPR class, please contact Emily Leetham at eleetham@healthdistrict. org or call 970-530-2883. To learn more about the Connections program, visit www.healthdistrict.org/services/ connections-adult-services.

AUDITIONS FOR MISSOULA CHILDREN’S THEATRE ON JANUARY 6 The Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) is the nation’s largest touring children’s theatre and has been touring for over 40 years. They are coming to Greeley’s Union Colony Civic Center (UCCC) with a set, lights, costumes, props and make-up–but still need the cast! So, UCCC invites students in kindergarten through 10th grade to a group audition for the MCT performance of Robinson Crusoe. The group audition takes place from 4–6pm on Monday, January 6, 2020 at UCCC at 701 10th Avenue in Greeley. The first rehearsal will begin shortly after the audition that night, and rehearsals continue each day throughout the week prior to two public performances on Saturday, January 11 at 2pm and 6pm.

View details online at https://tinyurl. com/yxqu26d8.

RMPARENT

| 15

healthy living

Health tips for winter Simple things to combat germs LEA HANSON

W

hile many believe we are more likely to become sick in the winter, Jennifer Chase, Communicable Disease Epidemiologist with Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, says that’s not necessarily true. “It depends on the illness,” Chase says. “Many bacteria and viruses have a seasonal pattern. Flu and other respiratory illnesses, like the common cold, generally occur more often in the winter months, but you can get a cold or the flu at any time of year.”

Luckily, there are many simple things we can do to combat germs to prevent spreading illness over the next few months.

WASH YOUR HANDS For most, this seems like a no-brainer.

Yet it’s habit with which too many people are lazy or even skip altogether.

Germs live on both soft and hard surfaces so they are literally all over our environments; and while not all germs cause illness, we aren’t able to differentiate between those germs that won’t hurt us and those that will.

AVOID CONTACT WITH SICK PEOPLE Again, this seems like a no-brainer, but something that is tough for many since most of us have been deeply socialized to be polite. Something like avoiding handshakes may feel rude, but it can be a wise choice when illness is prevalent.

Chase says this doesn’t only involve trying to stay away from people who are sick: “This includes staying home from work or school if you are sick.”

EAT HEALTHY FOODS Overly processed foods with additives, refined white flour, added sugars or sweeteners decrease a person’s (especially children’s) appetite for healthy, 16

| RMPARENT

immune-boosting fruits and vegetables as well as weaken the protective effect of a healthy microbiome.

DRINK WATER When your water intake does not equal your output, you become dehydrated, and fluid loss is accentuated at higher altitudes. Staying hydrated helps to maintain blood volume which aids in oxygen transport, maintenance of body temperature, and electrolyte balance. In other words, it helps you avoid getting sick.

EXERCISE Exercise causes change in antibodies and white blood cells, which are the body’s immune system cells that fight disease. When we exercise, white blood cells circulate more rapidly, so they can detect illnesses earlier than they might have before.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP Sleep strengthens certain immune cells

by improving their chances of attaching to—and eventually destroying—cells infected with viruses. The cells that most often battle infection are T cells and they fight germs by becoming sticky and adhering themselves to virally infected cells. Not getting enough prevents T cells from getting sticky.

GET VACCINATED If your body is well enough to do so, getting the flu vaccine is one of your best bets in avoiding the illness. Chase says the biggest myth she hears in her job is that the flu vaccine causes illness or doesn’t work. She says, “In general, the vaccine reduces the risk of flu illness between 40-60 percent. Although this may not seem high, the flu vaccine prevents millions of illnesses and flu-related doctor’s visits each year, including reducing children’s risk of flu-related pediatric intensive care unit admissions and reducing a child’s risk of dying from the flu.” Obtain more information here: larimer.org/flu

RMPARENT

| 17

Hands-on activities help kids learn about food

18

| RMPARENT

T

eaching kids where food comes from and engaging them in the process of growing and buying it is one of the best ways to put them on track for a lifetime of healthy food choices.

GROW SOMETHING Planting a seed, nurturing it, and watching it grow is one of the easiest ways to teach kids where food comes from. Ask your kids to choose two or three vegetables and herbs they’d like to grow and plant them inside this winter. They can nurture the plant until spring when they are able to transport it outside to the garden. Kids will not only learn some important science, they will be more likely to taste and enjoy food they took part in growing.

VISIT A FARM What better way to understand how food is grown than to go to straight to the source? Many farms welcome visitors year-round and some have pickyour-own produce seasonally so you can experience harvesting first hand. It is an enjoyable way to spend a weekend day with loved ones.

Morning Fresh Dairy Farm in Bellvue offers free tours that offer viewing where crops are grown, learning about the cow milking process, meeting milking cows, and sampling products.

Visit www.morningfreshdairy.com to learn more and register for a tour.

Bartels Farm grows almost twodozen types of produce and while visits peak in the early fall due to their pumpkin patch, corn maze, and other fall events, people are welcome to visit any time. Visit www.thebartelsfarm.com for more details.

TALK TO A GROWER One of the best things about going to a farm or a farmer’s market is that you get to know the people who grow your food. Farmers take great pride in the hard work they do and are usually happy to talk about their growing practices and even share recipe ideas. Encourage children to ask questions; perhaps prepare a list before you visit.

One of the easiest ways to do this in northern Colorado is by becoming

a member of a local CommunitySupported Agriculture organization or visiting a farmers’ market. Most CSAs require weekly pick-up and offer easy, direct interaction with the farmer who contributed to growing your food. Some CSAs even offer discounted rates for members who work on their farm a certain number of hours per week.

MAP IT One activity that can help kids understand where their food comes from and how it makes its way to the supermarket is to map it. Locate the origin of a food on a map and calculate the miles it would have to travel to get to you. Then talk to your children about how the food might have been transported.

Most Americans, including northern Coloradans, is that our food

grown using genetically modification techniques. Once kids—or people of any age—begin to grasp these concepts, the work to change their purchasing and eating habits may begin to feel more urgent.

TELL KIDS WHERE MEAT COMES FROM Learning where meat comes from can be scary and gruesome for some kids to grasp. Still, experts say it’s best to be straightforward and honest when telling kids how meat gets from a farm (or factory) to our plates. Kids also ought to know from which animal the types of meat or animal product they’re eating comes. Some suggest beginning the conversation with a “food as fuel” perspective because it’s simple for most kids to understand. Another approach is starting with an overview of the food chain: a robin eats a worm, and so forth.

Whether or not your family eats meat or animal products, the conversation about meat processing can support the value and

decision about choosing whether or not to eat meat, and choosing whether to eat certain types of meat and animal products.

rides on a truck—and sometimes a long distance—before it gets to our local grocery store. According to the CUESA (www.cuesa.org), it is estimated that food in the United States travels about 1,500 miles to get from farm to plate. This is concerning because this transport requires the consumption of fossil fuels, generates great quantities of carbon dioxide, and—since transported produce often ripens in transit—is more likely to be

EAT SEASONALLY We can get most fruits and vegetables any time of year nowadays but produce tastes best when it is in peak season.

Focusing on seasonal produce ensures you get a variety of fruits and vegetables into your life, which means a healthy balance of nutrients as well. Besides, waiting for a fruit or vegetable to be in season creates anticipation and excitement around it. It also reinforces the value of how much work it takes to get certain types of produce from where they are grown to the stores at which we buy them. The idea of living without a favorite fruit or vegetable during certain times of the year can increase the appreciation for the work it takes to obtain it in the first place.

RMPARENT

| 19

From getting to giving

W

ith never ending toy ads, smiling Santas and tasty treats everywhere they turn, it’s hard to keep our kids’ focus on giving rather than receiving this holiday season. Yet, it’s the giving that lives on long after the final present is opened.

We’ve all watched in shock and appall as parents caught on video fight over the last toy on Black Friday. While these scenes seem the ultimate of the season gone wrong, they’re a good reminder to check in with ourselves during the month of December and be mindful about our

own focus, and the message it sends.

It sounds trite, but be mindful of the reason for the season. Even if you are not religious, you can focus on the values that are at the base of all holiday celebrations: compassion, generosity, gratitude and kindness.

Here’s how to help kids focus on meaning, rather than receiving.

MAKE IT ABOUT MORE THAN TOYS AND SHOPPING Do simple things to limit your family’s exposure to the commercial world—unplug from media and

do fun activities together instead.

Maybe even replace that picture with Santa with a more meaningful act, like picking a child’s name off a community-giving tree.

Do your Christmas shopping while your kids are at school, if possible, rather than dragging them to the stores. If they see less stuff, they will likely want less stuff. Besides, it leaves more time during winter break to hang out, connect and have fun.

“Simply spend time together. It doesn’t have to be a big event. If you have teens, they may act like material

Lynn U. Nichols

Redefining the season

20

| RMPARENT

things like gifts matter most, but studies show that it’s really connecting to family and friends that they value,” says Kristin Glenn, parent educator with The Women’s Clinic of Northern Colorado.

Rather than having your kids go buy you or other loved ones a gift, encourage them to make something instead. Look up a fun, holiday craft, buy the supplies and spread it all out on the kitchen table—then get messy together. Check out wreath making with kids on Craftulate.com or look at ornament ideas—like ones that feature their faces—at Pinterest.com.

When we spend less time shopping, our kids get the message that the best part of the holidays is connection and enjoyment. The gifts are just the icing.

Give a few gifts they really want, rather than overwhelming them with a ton.

FOSTER GIFTS OF KINDNESS Another idea is to skip a gift altogether— even the homemade kind—and instead, help your kids brainstorm gifts of kindness for family, friends and neighbors. Maybe it’s coupons for foot rubs for dad, or snow shoveling for a neighbor. Maybe it’s helping you clean the house or decorate before a holiday party. Have them think about the person and consider what they like or need. When kids generate the ideas themselves, their excitement will help them follow through.

The holidays are a great time to make kindness a habit. When you see your child being kind or helpful, give them praise. Kids from a young age learn that if I am kind, I get kindness back. Or if I am generous, others will be generous with me. A lot of exchanges are quid-pro-quo, even with acts of kindness. Some kids might simply do something or say something to get something back, and that’s okay. They are still learning the habit of being kind.

Yet shy away from mandating acts of kindness, because it rarely works and often creates resistance and resentments.

Let the holidays jumpstart the kindness habit, then keep it going all year round. From empathy grows a spirit of giving and an urge to take care of others. If you show a genuine interest

in people—by remembering important details about their lives and offering help and kindness—your kids will, too. When you make it a habit to take care of an elderly neighbor or bring a friend soup when she is sick, you are teaching through action—the best way to genuinely teach kindness. Every small act adds up and soon it’s not only stuff we do but who we are.

VOLUNTEER TO HELP THOSE LESS FORTUNATE Leading up to the holiday, plan at least one outing to help strangers in the community. Take kids grocery shopping and fill bags for the food bank. Make goodie bags for a local, small nursing home with treats and hot chocolate.

Have your child sort through their toys and clothes to give away to other kids

who have less. Volunteer as a family at the homeless shelter serving meals. There are a ton of ways to provide a lesson on giving to your community—sending the message that we all need to take care of others, even people we don’t know.

CHANGE UP YOUR GIFT OPENING STRATEGY ON THE BIG DAY Rather than letting kids rip and tear to see how fast they can open their gifts without pause, deliberately slow the pace down. Open gifts one at a time, with kids taking turns selecting and delivering a gift to each person. Open a gift, then stop and appreciate the gift.

Maybe that means opening the game and playing it, or trying on new clothes.

In between gifts, enjoy a breakfast treat or read a holiday story. Here are some other ideas to make the morning last:

• Save your holiday cards and open them on Christmas morning, reflecting on the people that sent them—rather than opening them when you get the mail, exhausted and hurrying to make dinner.

• Have a scavenger hunt to break up the sitting around the tree tradition. Let kids take turns hiding presents and then take your mark, set, and go find them.

• Save some for later. Instead of letting your kids unwrap all their presents in one day, spread it out. For example, open a few on the big day, then save a present for each day in the coming week.

• Have thank you cards ready to fill out, and have kids stop and write a thank you after opening gifts from relatives, so they can express gratitude while it’s fresh.

• Attend a candlelight service the night before, or start the morning by reading a favorite religious verse or a meaningful quote. Yet, don’t force your kids to participate. If they resist, set it aside and ask them to share something meaningful when it feels right—maybe at dinner later that day. “It’s important for kids to be given permission to express spirituality in their own way,” Glenn adds.

It’s tempting to spoil our kids during the holidays. When else do they get to sit down in front of a huge pile of gifts and rip through them?

Unfortunately, gift-gorging often leaves kids searching deep under the tree for more. This year, focus on gifts that last beyond the holiday season.

RMPARENT

| 21

The Dream Starts Here!

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

Offering gymnastics classes for ages 18 months to 18 years of age in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.

Monday - Thursday 8-5

H H Bring in this ad and receive 2 free classes! H H

www.kindergrins.com

$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: 12/31/19 RMP 1219

22

| RMPARENT

FREE light-up toothbrush for NEW patients

One coupon per family. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit.

Expires: 12/31/19 RMP 1219

— For new customers only —

• Beginner - Advanced Girls & Boys • Preschool Open Gyms

• Parent –Tot Classes • Summer Camps • Preschool Classes • Competitive Teams • Homeschool Open Gym • Competitive Cheer

970-663-3173 • Premiergymnastics.net 1410 East 11th Street • Loveland

WINTER

FUN INSIDE

ADV E RTIS IN G S U PPL EMENT

New Clinic is Now Open 1330 Oakridge Drive Suite 105 Fort Collins CO 80525

BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS THERAPY WITH KADIANT Discover the best Applied Behavior Analysis with Kadiant.

Our Board-Certified Behavior Analysts and Behavior Technicians are experienced, networked and ready to provide the support you need.

We provide a variety of services to fit your needs, including: • In-home and clinic-based ABA service • Formal evaluation and assessments • Parent training seminars We are an in-network • Self-help and daily life skills provider for most major • Behavior management insurance companies

Call Us at

1-866-523-4268

Or visit Kadiant.com to learn about ABA

2 | RMPARENT

| WINTER FUN INSIDE

and Medicaid

Professional Quality

Cleaning

We understand hectic holidays can be a aning time of year and cle chore. ful ad dre e on can be do the ls na sio Let our profes n sit ca u yo so ing an cle joy back, relax, and en the holiday Locally Owned Business serving Loveland, Fort Collins, Windsor, and Northern Colorado.

Holiday Specials:

20% off holiday cleaning and gift certificates!

· House and Office Cleaning · Licensed, Bonded, and Insured · Office Events, Party Hosting · Holiday, Spring Cleaning, Vacation · Move-in’s, Move-out’s · Specials and Gift Certificates available

970-744-8840 | Preciselypristineclean.com | Preciselypristine@gmail.com

WINTER FUN INSIDE

| RMPARENT | 3

4 | RMPARENT

| WINTER FUN INSIDE

WE ARE MOBILE Reach all of northern Colorado via print and digital marketing with Rocky Mountain Publishing.

Read all of our publications on your mobile device.

Program & Activity YOuth

Guide

January 2019 • rmparent.com

RiDE

BIKE-FRIENDLY BUZZ COOL GEAR AND GADGETS BICYCLING MAYOR IN NOCO?

2018 GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE & EVENTS

Program

PIT STOPS

DIRECTORY

BY CATEGORY • PAGE 24 ALPHABETICAL • PAGE 26

FIELD TRIPS

Destinations and wayside breaks

BY BIKE

School

CALENDARS PAGE 44

List of

SCHOOL

ADVERTISERS

DIRECTORY

PLUS

THE 2018

PAGE 46

PAGE 10

BIKE

CALENDAR

FIND IT IN

BIG

BIKE DIRECTORY THE

RiDE | 1

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

0119 PnA.indd 1

12/21/18 10:19 AM

HARVEST SEASON 2018

WINTER 2018

SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO • FIFTYBETTER.COM

Local Food and Farm Guide The DATING GAME after 50 YOUR GUIDE TO

FARMERS MARKETS AND FARM STANDS

Healthful food SERVED AT SCHOOLS

Shop

L-O-C-A-L through a winter wonderland

MEET A FARMER

AT A FARM STAND

Enjoying your holiday guests

CONNECTING h CROPS TO CUISINE Restaurants sourcing local food

SAFE SNOW SHOVELING

[

INSIDE: LIFESTYLE, ACTIVE AND HEALTH DIRECTORIES

]

Nature therapy

1

2

Connect to your Customers Online 2% Average Advertising Click-through Rate

3% RMParent.com Click-through Rate

RMParent now offers digital advertising onour website and message sharing/distribution via our social media network.

Rmparent.com offers a 3% click-through rate which is 1% above standard, helping you reach more customers online.

Augment your current messaging or launch a new campaign with advertising in both print and digital media formats!

FOR RATES AND SPACE RESERVATION, CONTACT:

Greg at 970-689-6832

greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

Susan at 970-301-3320

susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com

WINTER FUN INSIDE

| RMPARENT | 5

yB New at Knowledge Bound: AN EVEN LARGER SELECTION OF

GREAT TOYS AND GIFTS!

Dog Cover

Loog Cover

er Dragon Cov

Grid Cover

970-674-2997 | 1290 Main Street | Windsor | knowledgebound.net

Create family memories by finding the perfect Christmas tree to take home after snow tubing on our 12 run hill.

970-881-2450 • BeaverMeadows.com info@beavermeadows.com • Red Feather Lakes

6 | RMPARENT

| WINTER FUN INSIDE

WINTER FUN INSIDE

| RMPARENT | 7

OPEN:

6:30am — 6:00pm ALL YEAR

• Infant program (Fort Collins Center Only) • Utilize Creative Curriculum • Developmentally-Based Preschool • Nutritious Breakfast, Lunch & Snack • Financial Assistance Available • Dedicated Professional Staff • Toddler Program • Nonprofit Agency • Qualistar Rated

teaching-tree.org 8 | RMPARENT

| WINTER FUN INSIDE

LOVELAND CENTER

2109 Maple Dr. Loveland, CO 80538 (970) 667-7240 FORT COLLINS CENTER

424 Pine St. Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 493-2628

Northern Colorado’s Favorite Parenting Magazine.

Pick up your FREE copy today!

visit us online at: rmparent.com

ado’s

N Color

E T A M I T L U party AND NORTHER

a

Play are

Buy one get one free of equal or lesser value EXCLUDES FUN AND GAMES PASS

_—OR— $10.00 OFF your birthday package EXP 2/28/20

ROLLERLANDSKATECENTER.COM 970-482-0497 • 324 S. LINK LANE • FORT COLLINS

WINTER FUN INSIDE

| RMPARENT | 9

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 . . . .

Susan at 970-301-3320

Susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com

10 | RMPARENT

| WINTER FUN INSIDE

RMPARENT

| 23

greeley district 6 news District 6 open enrolling students for 2020-21

Greeley-Evans School District 6 is now taking applications for students who want to attend a school that is outside their boundary area.

Any parent or guardian interested in enrolling their child in a school outside their home boundary for the 2020-21 school year must apply during the open enrollment period, which is Nov. 1, 2019, thorough Dec. 20, 2019.

While District 6 is able to accommodate most open enrollment requests, it may not be able to approve requests for enrollment into schools, specific grade levels or special programs that are at or above capacity or cannot fulfill the specific needs of the student.

Parents will be notified via email of their student(s) open enrollment status prior to February 1, 2020. Parents have until March 27, 2020 to accept or deny an offer.

Students currently open-enrolled are eligible to stay at their current school through the highest grade 24

| RMPARENT

offered at that school and do not need to apply yearly. All students approved for open enrollment to a school outside their home boundary, regardless of programming needs, will not be provided District transportation services to or from school.

Some District 6 schools are fully openenrolled schools and do not have traditional boundaries. These are Chappelow Arts Magnet (K-8), Fred Tjardes School of Innovation (K-8), Early College Academy (9-12) and middle grades at Winograd K-8 (6-8). Families wishing to attend any of these schools must fill out an open enrollment application.

Students transitioning from one school level to another will automatically be enrolled into their home boundary school for 202021 unless a new open enrollment application is submitted and approved.

This includes: • 5th grade to 6th grade (except K-8 schools)

• 8th grade to 9th grade

Some District 6 charter schools have separate processes, policies and timelines. Contact the school directly for more information.

The Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA), which regulates eligibility for school sports and activities, places some restrictions on students› athletic eligibility if they transfer schools during high school. Students who transfer schools without a bona fide family move or hardship waiver will lose 365 days of varsity eligibility in any sport they participated in at their previous school. Parents and students should make themselves aware of the CHSAA transfer rules before applying for open enrollment.

Also, students approved for open enrollment to a school outside their home boundary, regardless of programming needs, will not be provided District 6 transportation

services. All open enrollment applications are online this year. More information can be found at www. greeleyschools.org/openenrollment.

GREELEY CENTRAL STUDENT COLLECTING WARM CLOTHING Greeley Central High School Junior Hailey Termeer is collecting winter clothing that will be distributed to students in December.

Hailey says she has struggled with poverty most of her life, and she knows many of her fellow students have similar challenges. She is organizing the clothing drive as a community service project.

“Not having enough money to have nice clothes, or the right shoes, was a huge struggle for me,” Hailey says.

“I want to ensure that children today will not have to endure the struggles I experienced. Looking around Greeley and simply just driving around town, most of the children walking to school don’t have appropriate clothing for

Colorado’s inclement weather, and it simply breaks my heart.”

Hailey has organized the clothing drive and has drop locations at several schools in District 6. A majority of these clothes will be distributed to families at an event at Greeley Central High School the evening of December 16.

New clothes are preferred, but very gently used, clean coats will also be accepted if they are in very good condition. Here are the items most needed.

• Coats, new or very near new • New hats, gloves, scarves and mittens • New winter boots • New warm winter socks

In addition to collection boxes at Greeley Central and some school sites, there will be a drop box beginning Monday, November 18 in the first floor lobby of the Administration Building, 1025 9th Avenue. Clothing can be dropped off between the hours of 7:30pm and 4:30 p.m. before December 11.

DISTRICT 6 APPRENTICESHIP EARNS NATIONAL REGISTRATION A District 6 apprenticeship program has become the first in the state of Colorado to become a Registered Apprenticeship Program through the United States Department of Labor.

The District 6 Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship Program in partnership with Vestas Blades America in Windsor has been selected as a National Registered Apprenticeship, becoming the first of its kind in Colorado.

Students in the apprenticeship program can earn credits in science while on the job. Pending approval of the District Curriculum Council, apprentices will have the opportunity to earn science elective credit while pursuing their career pathway.

Vestas currently hosts 26 District 6 apprentices. These students are mentored and training while earning a paycheck. They are also given the opportunity to advance to other manufacturing positions.

RMPARENT

| 25

poudre school district news PHS students honor veteran experiences

When Poudre High School junior Madison first began interviewing a Vietnam War veteran in her school’s media center, he was reluctant to open up.

So, they talked about other things, until he felt more comfortable sharing his story.

“After a while, he knew I was someone to trust,” Madison says.

The interview was part of a project for Poudre students who are studying “The Things They Carried,” a collection of stories about an American army platoon’s experiences during the Vietnam War. During their study of the book, students interviewed local veterans about their experiences serving their country.

Students then worked to produce creative projects such as podcasts and photo books to reflect what they learned in the interviews.

“We wanted to generate closer ties to the community,” teacher Stephanie Mosnik says. “Our students are very supportive of vets, and we thought ‘what could we actually include (in this 26

| RMPARENT

unit) that could do something to share veteran experiences?”

And so, the Veterans’ Voices project was born. Students talked to the veterans about their experiences serving overseas, the careers they explored after their service, and much more.

The project helped students connect with veterans, practice professional interviewing skills and combine what they’ve been learning in class.

“I think for a lot of people, especially me, it’s been an eye-opening experience,” Bryce, a Poudre junior, says.

“You never think about what vets have gone through and experienced.”

LINTON STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT DIFFERENT JOBS FROM PARENTS ON CAREER DAY The United Airlines pilot smiled out at the crowd of 50-some Linton second graders in front of her.

“Do you have any questions about my job?” she asked.

Hands shot up across the room as students craned their necks to get a

better look.

“How big is your plane?”

“What classes did you need to take to become a pilot?”

“How do oxygen masks work?”

Even though they had already spent most of their day watching Career Day presentations, these eager students were still on the edge of their seats as they listened to software developers, traffic control agents, realtors and many more community members talk about their careers.

“Since our first reading unit and social studies unit focused on communities, our big question for students was what is a community?”

Linton teacher Sarah Filkowski says. “We focused a lot on jobs and how they help provide services to community members. With this in mind, we conjured up the idea to provide first-hand information from real people within our community to help students grasp the importance of community members, as well as recognize them as their neighbors.”

RMPARENT

| 27

thompson school district news Loveland High School Crimson Regiment takes state fect for your student and family. Now is your chance to explore our diverse program lineup and choose the school community that is right for you!

• Dual Language Immersion • International Baccalaureate • Loveland Area Integrated School of the Arts • STEM/STEAM • Leader In Me • Avid and AP Capstone Diploma AND MORE!

Congratulations to the Loveland High School Crimson Regiment, the 2019 4A STATE CHAMPIONS! THOMPSON EDUCATION FOUNDATION ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS Thompson Education Foundation (TEF) has a long history of hosting the TEF Educator of the Year awards that honor and recognize excellence in Thompson School District.

Nominations for the 2020 Educators of the Year are currently being accepted and are welcome from coworkers, supervisors, parents, students and community members in the following categories: • Elementary Teacher of the Year (early childhood—fifth grade) • Secondary Teacher of the Year (sixth grade—twelfth grade) • Principal of the Year • TSD Staff (Classified, APT, Support Services, etc.)

Awards will be made in each category and all nominations will be considered for the 2020 Thompson Education Foundation Educator of the Year award.

Nomination forms can be found online at www.thompsontef.org and must be completed by 4:30pm on Friday, December 6, 2019 to be considered for the 2020 awards.

TEF Executive Director Kim Akeley-Charron says that “The opportunity to recognize educators and staff for their exemplary work and dedication to our 28

| RMPARENT

students is one of TEF’s signature annual programs and we eagerly anticipate the 2020 awards.”

All Thompson School District educators will be celebrated and Educator of the Year award winners will be honored at Embassy Suites Loveland on Wednesday, March 11, 2020, during TEF’s annual Educator Appreciation Breakfast. Table and event sponsorships are available for the Educator Appreciation Breakfast. For more information about sponsorship, contact Executive Director Kim Akeley-Charron at (970) 613-5074 or kim.ac@thompsontef.org.

APPLY NOW!!

Thompson School District Open Enrollment is December 2—January 10 Whatever your interests, TSD has program or choice options that are per-

Thompson School District hosted a thank you breakfast for the amazing School Resource Officers who serve our students and community. Thank you Larimer County Sheriff ’s Office and Loveland Police for all that you do!

NAMAQUA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL KNOWS HOW TO CELEBRATE WHEN HITTING THEIR FUNDRAISING GOAL. Tape your Principal to the wall!

Thank you to Namaqua’s Principal, Mrs. Geraghty, for being such a great “participant.”

GONE VIRAL It’s safe to say that Berthoud Elementary School has some of the best crossing guards ever! This photo was shared on Facebook over 100 times and it was featured on one of the local new stations!

Ring in the holidays with music classes at Foundation Music School!

Join us for FREE December 17 & 18

Call us today!

• Family Music classes • Zumbini • Music Camps

Registration for our Spring semester begins December 2.

• Pre-School Classes • Music Therapy • Group and Private Instrument lessons Visit our website for our full schedule of classes and camps: www.foundationmusicschool.org 3663 South College Unit 13, Fort Collins

970.407.9084

RMPARENT

| 29

DECEMBER 2019 ONGOING ONGOING FIRST FRIDAYS First Fridays at Windsor Art & Heritage Check out latest exhibition, hear live local music and create art. Free beer from High Hops Brewery. Windsor Art & Heritage Center, 116 5th St., WS. 6–8pm. 647-3502 www.windsorgov.com/calendar.aspx.

THIRD SUNDAYS Sensory Friendly Family Swim For families who include members with sensory needs, the crowd will be small, the environment accepting and the noise lessened by turning off water features except for lazy river. All ages. Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E. Fourth St., LV. 6–7:15pm. www.cityofloveland.org.

(includes access to the Butterfly House and Gardens) Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10:15am and 11:15am.

416-2486, www.fcgov.com/gardens.

DECEMBER 4 AND 5 CSU Student Art Sale Purchase beautiful crafted and locally made ceramics, jewelry, prints, t-shirts and other gifts. Gregory Allicar Museum of Art, University Center for the Arts, 1400 Remington St., FC. Wednesday 10am– 6pm, Thursday 10am–7:30pm. 491-1989 www.artmuseum.colostate.edu.

DECEMBER 1 AND 29 Video Games That Matter Explore how virtual worlds are making a difference in the real one. Meet the innovators using the technology to create empathy, study human health and design the future. Included with admission. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 2–4pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

DECEMBER 6 AND 7 Acoustic Eidolon Experience an blend of melodies and vocals in their original songs plus a blend of covers by Queen, Led Zeppelin and the Beatles with Rock, Celtic, Flamenco and Americana influences. All ages. $18–23.

Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 962-2120 www.RialtoTheaterCenter.org.

DECEMBER 2, 3, 9, 10 Read and Seed Youth Program Preschool readiness activities including story and related craft. Ages 2–5 with adult. Registration required. Free/ members. $11/adult, $8/child ages 2+

DECEMBER 7 AND 14 Kids’ Nite Out Dancing, inflatables, games, prizes, contests, swimming. Ages 7–14. $12; +$7/ dinner voucher. Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 7–10:30pm. 308-0439

30

| RMPARENT

DECEMBER 13 AND 14 December Memories Collaborative dance concert from Dance Express and Impulse Dance & Fitness. All ages. $8–20. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. Times vary.

221-6730, www.lctix.com.

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS, DECEMBER 13 THROUGH FEBRUARY 15 Eagle Watches View eagles with binoculars and spotting scopes and learn of their natural history from volunteer Master Naturalists. All ages. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, 3340 Carpenter Rd., FC. 3–4:30pm.

416-2815, www.fcgov.com/register.

THROUGH DECEMBER 14 The Moon Museum: Unofficial Art on Apollo 12 Exhibition offers a captivating example of complex ways in which art and technology are interrelated. All ages. Gregory Allicar Museum of Art, University Center for the Arts, 1400 Remington St., FC. 10am–6pm. 491-1989 www.artmuseum.colostate.edu.

Buy one cupcake Get one FREE!

SW corner of Horsetooth & College, west of Safeway

970-225-1040

buttercreamcupcakery.com

172 North College Avenue

970-482-2505

RMPARENT

| 31

THROUGH JANUARY 12 Game Changers: Live the Video Game Evolution Explore the past and uncover the future of gaming. Try operating a supersized Nintendo controller, play Tetris on a giant Game Boy and more. $6/person ($3/ members) in addition to admission. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am–5pm. 221-6738 www.fcmod.org.

Keep Kids Safe on the Internet Families will be divided into groups of adults; ages 8–12; and ages 13–18 for ageappropriate presentations on topics such as sexual predators, online enticement and grooming, social networking websites, cyberbullying, email, instant messaging (IM), smartphones and sexting. RSVP required. Fort Collins Police Services, Community Room, 2221 S. Timberline Rd., FC. 6:30–8pm. 416-2384 www.fcgov.com/police.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 Elvis: The Way it Was George Gray and his 17-member Elvis Experience Band perform Elvis’ greatest hits. $17–50. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 2pm. 356-5000 www.ucstars.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 In the Dome: Over in the Arctic—with ASL Discover arctic animals then make a craft in the Learning Lab. Ages 3–5. $5/child ($4/members). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10:15–11am. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 Let it Snow! Yoga & Crafts Fun, winter-themed activities that build important early literacy skills: yoga, a story, and a craft. Ages 2–5. Sustaining Balance Yoga Studio, 385 W. 4th Ave. Ste.B, Severance. 10:30–11am. 686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/3390814.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 Game Jam 360 Teams kick off a 72-hour challenge of creating a cutting-edge game for a 360° dome screen that immerses the player in the action. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 6–9pm.

221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

Winter-Scented Snowman, Oh My! Experiment with different spices to invent your own scented play dough to make a snowman. Ages 6–8. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 3:30–4:30pm.

686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/ event/3355170.

Family Bingo Night Play BINGO and win prizes with family and friends. All ages. Range View Elementary School, 700 Ponderosa Dr., Severance. 6:30–7:30pm. 686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/3326101.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 Strumming in the Stacks 3 Use one of library’s acoustic guitars or bring your own and learn a few songs together.

Registration required. Ages 14+. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 6:30pm.

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

Light Up the Night—Bike Light Giveaway Stop by for a free bike light to ride bright and learn about safe bicycling. All ages.

Northside Aztlan Community Center, 112 E. Willow St., FC. 4:30–6:30pm. 221-6987, www.fcgov.com/bicycling/bikewinter.

32

| RMPARENT

Skygazing with Northern Colorado Astronomical Society Telescopes provided. All ages. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, 3340 Carpenter Rd., FC. 7–9pm. 416-2815 www.fcgov.com/register.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Brewing History Harvest: Seeking Artifacts In preparation for a 2020 exhibit, the museum is seeking artifacts and objects (beer, bottles, caps), photos, home brewing tools, recipes, memorabilia (flyers, posters, etc.), popular culture items, artwork, graphic arts, signage, etc. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 10am–Noon. 2214600, www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

Crafty Tales: Nighttime Stories, songs and a special craft. Ages 3–6. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 10:30–11:30am. 686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/event/3355276.

CBD Coffee & Chat Enjoy a cup of Strava CBD infused coffee and learn more about CBD. All ages (children’s play area available). Canna World Market Loveland, 270 E 29th St., LV. 11:30am. 617-2996 www.cannaworldmarket.com/loveland.

On the Road to Reading Early Literacy Fair: Mother Goose Drop in to for interactive learning activities based on the 5 practices of Every Child Ready to Read. Enjoy imagination and musical games, crafts, and more. Ages Birth–Pre-K. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 2pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Colorado Gives Day 10th anniversary of annual statewide movement to celebrate and increase philanthropy in Colorado through online giving. www.coloradogives.org/cogivesday.

Cookies Use early math skills and fine motor coordination to measure and bake yummy cookies. Ages 2–5. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 10:30–11am.

686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary.org/ event/3355298.

QPR Training: Suicide Prevention Question, Persuade and Refer training covers warning signs and how to question people about suicide, persuade them to accept professional help, and refer them to community resources. Health District of Northern Larimer County, 120 Bristlecone Dr., FC. Noon–1pm. Register via email: eleetham@healthdistrict.org or call 530-2883.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 Winter Bike to Work Day Hop on two wheels to ride to work, school or anywhere, stopping at free breakfast stations along the way. Fort Collins.

7–9:30am. www.fcgov.com/bicycling/ bikewinter.

DO YOU HAVE A PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY YOU’D LIKE TO ADVERTISE? Program YOuth

y

& Activit

August

2018 •

.com

rmparent

Gu id e

-school

s

update

Back-to

PAGE 10

gr a m

P ro Y DIRECTOR • PAGE 16

RY

BY CATEGO • PAGE 18 AL ALPHABETIC

OL

SCHO ars calend E 44 PAG

Reach Thousands of Parents with RMParent’s

Program & Activity

List of RS

ISE ADVERTE 46 PAG

Series

Distribute throughous t

Find out how we can help your business!

School

in northes r Colorado n !

FOR BUSINESSES IN FORT COLLINS, CONTACT:

Greg at 970-689-6832 • greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com FOR BUSINESSES IN GREELEY, LOVELAND, WINDSOR, ESTES PARK AND OTHERS, CONTACT:

Susan at 970-301-3320 • susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com

RMPARENT

| 33

Kids Crafterschool: Diamond Painting Learn new skills and have fun creating your own masterpieces. Supplies provided.

Registration required. Grades 3–5. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave.., GR. 3:30pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Family STEAM Zone Engage in critical thinking and build your creative skills with LEGOs, Playmags, marble runs, tech toys and crafts. All ages.

Poudre Learning Center, 8313 W F St., GR. 4–5pm. 686-5603, https://clearviewlibrary. org/event/3325922.

Poetry in the Museum Explore the close connections between art and literature. Gregory Allicar Museum of Art, University Center for the Arts, 1400 Remington St., FC. 5pm. 491-1989, www. artmuseum.colostate.edu.

Jun Fermented Beverage Workshop Learn the recipe and take home a SCOBY of this beverage similar to Kombucha, made with green tea and honey. $10. All ages (children’s play area available).

Canna World Market Loveland 270 E 29th St., LV. 6:30pm. 617-2996 www.cannaworldmarket.com/loveland.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12 Little STEAMers: Gingerbread Science Learn what happens when a gingerbread man is placed in water, then build your own gingerbread house. Ages 3–5 with caregiver. $5/child ($4/members), caregivers free. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10:15–11am and 2:15– 3pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

Hour of Code Explore favorites such as Minecraft, Light Bot and Code Combat. All ages. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 3:30pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Hour of Code Spend your hour on the Mondo Pad. All ages. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

Hour of Code Come codeaborate. Registration required.

All ages. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

34

| RMPARENT

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 Sweetheart City 5K/10K Bring a new toy to the race to benefit the children served by Realities For Children.

Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E 4th St., LV. 10k starts at 8:45am and 5k starts at 9am. www.sweetheartcityracing.com.

Discovery Lab: The Science of Snow Learn how snowflakes are made. Ages 8+ with adult. Registration recommended. $5/family of 6 ($4/member family). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 11am–Noon and 1:30–2:30pm.

221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

Meet the Artist of Canna World Market Meet Mandy Goss, the artist behind the beautiful paintings displayed in store. All ages (children’s play area available). Canna World Market Loveland, 270 E 29th St., LV. 6:30pm. 617-2996 www.cannaworldmarket.com/loveland.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 Danú Leading traditional Irish ensemble features flute, tin whistle, fiddle, button accordion, bouzouki and vocals. All ages. $45–60.

Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 962-2120 www.RialtoTheaterCenter.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 In the Dome: Over in a River Discover North American rivers and identify the animals within, then make a craft in the Learning Lab. Ages 3–5. $5/ child ($4/members). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10:15– 11am. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 Jingle All the Way with Soundtrap Music Mixer Build a unique song by recording tracks and using Soundtrap technology to stack the tracks to create your personalized song.

Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 2pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 Museum Takeover: Snow Day Interactive activities throughout the gallery, discover the science of snow, and how important ice is to our world’s climate.

Ages 5+. Cost included with admission.

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am–1pm.

221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

Night Trains at Colorado Model Railroad Museum See amazing model trains run through the 5,500 square foot layout with special lighting and the evening lights of Oregon.

Colorado Model Railroad Museum 680 10th St., GR. 5–8pm. 392-2934 www.cmrm.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 Pop-Up Music: Sound Effects Explore how sounds are created/added to films and key industry moments such as how sounds become iconic (think swoosh of a lightsaber). All ages. Included with admission. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am–1pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 23 School’s Out, Library’s In: Pine Cone Elves Drop in to make a fun holiday elf using pine cones, chenille stems and a few magical supplies. Grades K–12. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., GR. 2pm.

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26 Little STEAMers: Sink or Float Holiday Edition Make predictions and observations about whether different holiday objects will sink or float, plus a surprise experiment.

Ages 3–5 with caregiver. $5/child ($4/ members), caregivers free. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10:15–11am and 2:15–3pm. 221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 STEM Club Try coding, play with Harry Potter coding wands, ozobots, botley robots, 3D printing pens, Oculus Go VR headsets and more.

Grades 4–12. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 4–5pm. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 30 Bookmarks and Board Games Drop in to make bookmarks and play board games and enjoy light nut-free snacks and hot chocolate. All ages and abilities. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. FC. 10am–Noon.

221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

RMPARENT

| 35

Holiday

HAPPENINGS ONGOING SUNDAYS, DECEMBER 1 THROUGH 22 Horse-drawn Carriage Rides Step back in time as you enjoy a complimentary, old-fashioned horsedrawn carriage ride down Main Street.

Promenade Shops at Centerra, Ice Rink, 5971 Sky Pond Dr., LV. Noon–4pm.

461-1285 www.ThePromenadeShopsatCenterra.com.

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER Holiday Village Enjoy the sights and sounds of a miniature village, complete with holiday tree and working train. Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., FC. M-F: 6am–9pm, Sat: 8am–5pm, Sun:9am–8pm. 221-6644 www.fcgov.com/recreator.

DECEMBER 6 AND 7 A Candlelight Christmas Join Larimer Chorale and special guest artists for a “surround-sound” presentation of holiday pageantry, featuring seasonal music and candle lighting vignette. $15– 25/adult; Free/ages 12 and under. First United Methodist Church, 1005 Stover, FC. Friday at 7:30pm; Saturday 2pm. www.lctix.com.

36

| RMPARENT

DECEMBER 6 THROUGH 8 The Nutcracker Canyon Concert Ballet presents 38th annual production with Fort Collins Symphony Orchestra performing dazzling score by Tchaikovsky. $25–40. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. Times vary. 221-6730, www.lctix.com.

DECEMBER 12 AND 13 Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra presents Christmas Brass The GPO’s big, bad, brass section showcases holiday hymns and carols. All ages. $5–25. First United Methodist Church, 917 10th Ave., GR. Thursday, 2pm, Friday 7:30pm. 356-5000, www.ucstars.com.

THROUGH DECEMBER 7 Greeley Festival of Trees Winter wonderland of beautifully decorated trees and displays. Enjoy Whoville Holiday, Sip & Shop Ladies Night Out, Teddy Bear Bash, silent auction, choirs and musicians and St. Nick and Mrs. Claus. All ages. $3/ adult, $2/child ages 1–12 and seniors. Union Colony Civic Center’s lobbies, 701 10th Ave., GR. Hours vary. www.greeleygov.com/ activities/fot/festival-of-trees.

DECEMBER 13 AND 14 Clara and The Nutcracker 2019 Contemporary Dance Academy presents a full-scale production of “The Nutcracker” with beginning to pre professional students, magnificent sets and backdrops. $18–25. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. Times vary. www.lctix.com.

DECEMBER 7 AND 8 Greeley Tribune Holiday Craft & Gift Show Features 90+ artisan and creative vendors, giveaways, food, and children’s activities.

Northridge High School, 100 71st Ave., GR. Saturday 9am–5pm, Sunday 11am–4pm. www.greeleytribune.com/craft.

DECEMBER 13, 14 AND 15 Loveland Choral Society: A Christmas Festival $21. Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., LV. Times vary. 962-2120 www.RialtoTheaterCenter.org.

RMPARENT

| 37

Colorado Dance Theatre presents: The Nutcracker Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet featuring dancers from many NoCo dance studios, CDT’s own orchestra, and the Greeley Children’s Chorale. Ages 3+. $15–25.

Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. Times vary. 356-5000 www.ucstars.com.

The Stampede Troupe presents The Santaland Diaries Rated PG-13 for mature audiences.

David Sedaris’ thorny evocation of what a slacker’s Christmas must feel like. $20.

Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. Times vary. 356-5000 www.ucstars.com.

DECEMBER 13 THROUGH 29 Garden of Lights Whimsical botanical scenes, new Color Blossoms show and other family friendly entertainment. All ages. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 5–9pm.

416-2486, www.fcgov.com/gardens.

DECEMBER 13 THROUGH 31 Christmas Walk in the Woods Hear carolers, see beautiful lights and meet Santa on select days. Closed Christmas Eve and Day. $4/person; Free/children under 5. The Savage Woods, 1750 Savage Rd., LV. 5–8pm daily. 667-3002 www.christmaswalkinthewoods.com.

THROUGH DECEMBER 15 Santa Shopping Quest Annual Santa Claus figurine scavenger hunt for a chance to win one of three Downtown Fort Collins gift cards for $500, $200 or $100. Downtown FC. Regular business hours. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

FRIDAYS–SUNDAYS THROUGH DECEMBER 29 Brewery Lights at Anheuser-Busch Stroll through twinkling brewery grounds plus family activities like roasting s’mores at fire pits and beer samples for ages 21+, tours, etc. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Tour Center, 2351 Busch Dr., FC. 5-9pm. www.BreweryLights.com.

DECEMBER 21 THROUGH JANUARY 6 Candy Cane Hunt Stop by any library to pick up a game sheet for the annual scavenger hunt. All Poudre River Public Libraries, FC. During open hours. 221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

THROUGH JANUARY 1 Loveland Winter Wonderlights Free walkable holiday lights display with inflatable igloo and musical light shows daily. Live entertainment, giveaways and Santa on Dec. 13–14. Chapungu Sculpture Park at Centerra, Sky Pond Dr. LV. 5–9pm. www.visitlovelandco.org/ winterwonderlights.

THROUGH JANUARY 19 Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn Based on the classic film, this joyous musical features dance, comedy and many of Irving Berlin’s hit songs. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Dr. Johnstown. Times vary. 744-3747 www.coloradocandlelight.com.

FRIDAYS–SUNDAYS, THROUGH FEBRUARY 1 Old Town Square Ice Rink Free admission and skate rentals!

Extended schedule around holidays.

Old Town Square, FC. Times vary. www.downtownfortcollins.org.

DECEMBER 18 AND 19 Dance Factory Presents: The Grinch Free event. No tickets required. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7pm. 356-5000, www.ucstars.com.

THROUGH FEBRUARY 14 Fort Collins Downtown Holiday Lights Dazzling display of thousands of sustainable LED lights. Old Town, FC. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

DECEMBER 19 THROUGH 22 A Musical Christmas Carol La-De-Da Performing Arts presents annual production based on Charles Dickens’ classic. $16. Lincoln Center, Magnolia Theatre, 417 W. Magnolia St. Times vary. www.lctix.com.

THROUGH FEBRUARY 22 Nativities and Festivals of Light Features créche scenes and light celebrations from around the world. All ages. $5/adult; $3/senior or student; $1/ ages 4–12; Children 3 and under free.

Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 11am–5pm.

221-4600, www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

38

| RMPARENT

THROUGH FEBRUARY The Ice Rink at The Promenade Shops at Centerra Beautiful outdoor, ice skating rink open 7 days a week with all-inclusive, allday pricing. All ages. Main Plaza of The Promenade Shops at Centerra, 5971 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 667-5283 www.theicerinkattheshops.com.

Warm Wishes Scarf Project Donate new or handmade scarves, hats, mittens, etc. to FoCo Cafe along with a message of hope (quote, drawing, story) to be shared with those in need. FoCo Cafe 225 Maple St., FC. 9am–5pm. www.facebook.com/FoCoCafe.

Foothills Holiday Fun Skate, gather and celebrate the holiday season. All ages. The Shops at Foothills 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. www.shopfoothills.com/events.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 The Short & Sweet Nutcracker Matinees One hour condensed matinees by Canyon Concert Ballet. All ages. $15–20. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 11am and 2pm. 221-6730 www.lctix.com.

NightLights Tree Lighting Celebration Help to shine light into the darkness of child abuse with food, live music, hot drinks and Santa. All ages. First Presbyterian Church, 531 S. College Ave., FC. 6-7pm. 484-9090 www.GiveaNightLight.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 Ugly Holiday Sweaters for Tweens & Teens Create your own ugly holiday sweater for this holiday season. Registration required.

Grades 4-12. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6:30pm. 221-6740 www.poudrelibraries.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 Timnath Holiday Lighting Festival See Santa, enjoy holiday festivities and light the town. All ages. Old Town Timnath, 4100 Main St., Timnath. 5–7pm. www.timnath.org/holiday-lightingfestival-2019.

Holiday Carols at Global Village Museum String musicians from Off the Hook Arts will serenade visitors from 5–7pm while viewing global créche scenes and light celebrations. All ages. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 11am–5pm.

221-4600, www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

An Evening on the Polar Express Come in your pajamas for a family event.

Enjoy snacks and the timeless classic book.

Make “Snowman Soup” and winter crafts.

Santa will visit so bring your cameras!

Limited to 100 people—registration required. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 6pm. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

Carolfest 2019 Join the Choice City Singers as they carol through Old Town Fort Collins, singing festive songs of the holiday season. Opera Galleria, 123 N. College Ave., FC. 6:30– 7:30pm. www.choicecitysingers.com.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage. $34–68. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm.

356-5000, www.ucstars.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Santa Catch 5k Run/Walk Bring your ugly sweater for a brisk jaunt around Windsor Lake. Prizes for ugliest sweater and top finishers. $30/before December 6; $35/day of event. Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., WS. 8am. www.windsorgov.com/calendar.aspx.

Sweaty Sweater 4 Mile Run/Walk Show off your most hideous, outrageous UGLY sweater while running to support Adopt-a-Family. Ticket prices vary.

Biergarten at Anheuser-Busch Brewery 2351 Busch Dr., FC. 9am. www.frontrangefreeze.com.

Loveland Library Winterfest Crafts, kids’ gingerbread workshop, Santa visits, music, festive trees, model train display and more. All ages. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams, LV. 9am–5pm.

962-2665 www.friendsofthelovelandlibrary.org.

Homesteader’s Holiday Tour decorated historical homes and enjoy family activities including candle dipping, music, crafts. $3/person ages 3+. Free/ youth ages 12 and under with canned food donation for Weld County Food Bank.

Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A St., GR. 10am–4pm. 360-9220 www.GreeleyMuseums.com.

Holiday Wreath Making Class Fill your home with the festive fragrance of Colorado evergreens with this make-your-own holiday wreath class.

Registration required. $30. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10:30am and 1:30pm. www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Do you suffer from Neuropathy?

Yes!

We accept most major insurance & Medicare

Get relief at the speed of light. with our safe, new advanced laser treatment for Neuropathy!

Relief For:

• Neuropathy

Call today for a FREE screening

Physical Medical Center of the Rockies , PPLC DBA

SPINE CORRECTION CENTER OF THE ROCKIES

• Numbness & Tingling • Pins & Needles • Painful Hands & Feet

2244 E. Harmony Rd. Suite 110 Fort Collins 970.226.1117 www.spinecorrectioncenter.com frontdesk@spinecorrectioncenter.com RMPARENT

| 39

BUILD YOUR STRENGTH

BUILD YOUR COMMUNITY

NOW RECRUITING FOCOROLLERDERBY.ORG

FOCOROLLERDERBY.ORG

#WINALLTHEGAMES #BREWVICTORY

40

| RMPARENT

BUILD YOUR SELF

RMPARENT

| 41

Centennial Park Library Holiday Extravaganza Music, treats, gift making and sharing of holiday traditions. Make hot chocolate in a jar, create custom gift wrap /boxes, or read a story to a PAWS to Read furry friends.

All ages. Supplies/treats while supplies last. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 11am. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

Estes Park Holiday Home Tour Visit decorated homes throughout the Estes Valley and enjoy treats at Good Sam’s while viewing beautifully decorated trees and possibly win one. Proceeds support Estes Park Quota. $20 Locations vary, EP. 11am–3pm. 402-610-0747 www.visitestespark.com.

Windsor Wonderland Family activities and live holiday music kicks off with Santa’s arrival and concludes with treats and tree lighting ceremony.

Downtown Windsor/Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., WS. Noon–5pm. www.windsorgov.com/calendar.aspx.

The Nutcracker Tea Dress up and bring your favorite doll to High Tea with pastries, fruit and cakes plus music, photos with Nutcracker dancers and prizes. $25–30. Discounts if bundled with 2pm performance. The Lincoln Center, Columbine Room, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 12:30–1:30pm. 221-6730 www.lctix.com.

Jessup Farm Winter Festival Free photos with Santa, hot cocoa, letters to Santa and ornament craft. Jessup Farm Artisan Village, 1921 Jessup Dr., FC. 2–5pm. www.jessupfarm.com.

Wellington Christmas Parade of Lights Downtown Wellington, 1st Ave. and Cleveland Ave. 5pm. www.townofwellington.com.

Poinsettia Pops, presented by the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra The Greeley Chorale and the Greeley Children’s Chorale perform seasonal favorites. All ages. $5–35. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm.

356-5000, www.ucstars.com.

42

| RMPARENT

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Holiday Miniature Gardening Class Create your very own miniature winter wonderland with plants, accessories and some imagination. $40. Fort Collins Nursery, 2121 E. Mulberry, FC. 11am-12:30pm. 482-1984 www.FortCollinsNursery.com.

Colorado Makers Holiday Market Small batch and one-of-a-kind goods crafted or found with care are available for purchase. Northside Aztlan Community Center, 112 Willow St., FC. Noon–5pm. www.coloradomakersmarket.com.

34th Annual Bells of Christmas Concert Features Chancel Handbell Choir and more. Donations accepted to benefit Homeward Alliance. First Presbyterian Church of Fort Collins, 531 S. College Ave., FC. 7–9pm. www.firstpresfc.org.

Foothills Pops Band Present “Sounds of Christmas” Mix of small ensembles and full concert band pieces. $8/adult, $6/youth under 18.

CSU University Center for the Arts, Griffin Concert Hall, 1400 Remington St., FC. 7pm. www.csuartstickets.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Lincoln Park Singers Hear the Lincoln Park Singers (ages 6–10) caroling. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 4:30pm, 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 Dickens Carolers Enjoy the music of the carolers in period costumes and a hot chocolate bar. All ages.

Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St. WS. 6–7pm. 686-5603 www.clearviewlibrary.org/event/3416081.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 Santa’s Workshop Morning of holiday crafting. All ages.

Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 10am–Noon. 686-5603 www.clearviewlibrary.org/event/3356832.

EPIC Winter Festival Free on-ice activities: public skating from 12:15–2:15pm, then watch figure, synchronized and speed skating exhibitions from 2:30–6:30pm. EPIC, 1801 Riverside, FC. 221-6655 www.fcgov.com/recreation.

The Nutcracker, An Abridged Performance Studio West Dance Center tells the story of the classical Tchaikovsky/Pepita ballet with excerpts from various parts. Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., FC. 5pm. 2216644, www.fcgov.com/recreation.

The Greeley Chorale Presents Hometown Holiday Variety of holiday music with solos, duets and small ensembles. $10–22. UNC Campus Commons Performance Hall, 1051 22nd St., GR. 7:30pm. 356-5000 www.ucstars.com.

Fort Collins Wind Symphony Holiday Concert The performance will include holiday and non-holiday selections. Free but tickets required. Colorado State University Center for the Arts, 1400 Remington St., FC. 7:30-8:30pm. 491-2787 www.fcwindsymphony.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 Believe in Miracles Winter Dance Show Windsor Just For Kix dancers showcase their talents. $9–14; free/ages 5 and under . The Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 2pm and 6pm. www.lctix.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 USAF Academy Band Holiday Concert: Holly & Ivy Annual seasonal celebration concert. Limit 4 free tickets per person while supplies last. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 2pm and 7pm. 356-5000 www.ucstars.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Grammy Award winner Chip Davis presents Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics and more. All ages. $85–132. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 7:30pm. www.lctix.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 Last Stop Christmas Shop Art and craft show with handmade items, original art, pastels, watercolors, oils, glassware and more. Best Western Plus, 5542 E US Highway 34, LV. 11am–3pm. www.facebook.com/ NOCOARTAdvocate.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 23 Jingle Bells & Holiday Cheer Enjoy Christmas stories, songs and more seasonal fun. Ages 4+. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am. 484-7898 www.poudrelibraries.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26 Dreidels and Latkes Celebrate wonderful traditions and stories of Hanukkah. Ages 4+. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am. 484-7898 www.poudrelibraries.org.

Free Day for Nativities and Festivals of Light Features créche scenes and light celebrations from around the world.

All ages. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave. FC. 11am–5pm. 221-4600 www.globalvillagemuseum.org.

Sensory Friendly Film: Let It Snow Enjoy this holiday classic in an accepting and understanding environment for those with autism or special needs. $4/person ($2/member). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 6–6:30pm.

221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 The Polar Express Matinee Watch the inspiring adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. All ages. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. FC. 10–11:45am.

221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28 Discovery Lab: Gingerbread Architecture Using basic engineering and design principles, families learn to build bigger and better gingerbread homes. Ages 8+ with adult. Registration recommended. $5/family of 6 ($4/member family). Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 11am–Noon and 1:30–2:30pm.

221-6738, www.fcmod.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31 Countdown to Noon Ring in the New Year at noon for younger kids who may not be awake for the actual holiday. All ages. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 11am–Noon.

686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org/ event/3356714.

Ann Lincoln Noon Year’s Eve Celebration Usher in 2020 with smiles and laughs at Ann Lincoln’s comedy, magic and juggling. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. Noon. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

RMPARENT

| 43

Santa Visit

ONGOING SUNDAYS, DECEMBER 1, 8 AND 22 Visit with Santa and His Reindeer Visit with Santa and his 5-monthold reindeer that you may photograph, and pet if they are near the fence. Bath Garden Center 2000 E. Prospect Rd., FC. 11am–4pm. 484-5022 www.bathgardencenter.com.

THROUGH DECEMBER 24 Santa’s Workshop Old Town Square Open to children of all ages.

Taking your own pictures is free.

Professional photographer also available. Old Town Square, FC. Days and hours vary. 484-2020 www.downtownfortcollins.com.

44

| RMPARENT

Visit Santa at Foothills Meet and get a photo with Santa.

The Shops at Foothills, 215 E. Foothills Pkwy, FC. Times vary. www.shopfoothills.com/events.

SATURDAYS, DECEMBER 7, 14 AND 21 Breakfast with Santa Includes buffet, goody bags, ornaments, time with Santa and digital photo, Ice Rink passes, more.

First come, first served tickets on sale at Mall Management Office for $15/person, cash only. Promenade Shops at Centerra, 5971 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 8:30am. 461-1285, www.

ThePromenadeShopsatCenterra.com.

DECEMBER 13 AND 14 Loveland Winter Wonderlights Santa visits this weekend at this walkable holiday lights display (running through January 1).

Free. Chapungu Sculpture Park at Centerra, Sky Pond Dr, LV. 5–9pm. www.visitlovelandco.org/ winterwonderlights.

DECEMBER 14, 15, 21, 22, 23 Visit Santa at Christmas Walk in the Woods Hear carolers, see beautiful lights and talk with Santa on these special days. $12/person; Free/ children under 5. The Savage Woods, 1750 Savage Rd., LV. 5–8pm daily. 667-3002, www. christmaswalkinthewoods.com.

DECEMBER 14 AND 21 Santa Visits Colorado Model Railroad Museum Share your wishes with Santa next to newly painted 100-year-old caboose plus crafts and eye-spy games. See the new Department 56 theme on display and O scale Polar Express Train. Colorado Model Railroad Museum, 680 10th St., GR. 10am–1pm. 392-2934, www.cmrm.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 Santa on The Farm Enjoy holiday lights and decorations while enjoying hot chocolate, hay rides, visiting animals and meeting Santa. The Farm at Lee Martinez Park, 600 N. Sherwood, FC. 3pm. 221-6665, www.fcgov.com/ recreation.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 Storytime with Santa Special evening of hot cocoa, cookies and storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Limited tickets available. $5; Under 2-free.

Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 5:30– 6:30pm. 962-2120 www.rialtotheatercenter.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 Timnath Holiday Lighting Festival See Santa, enjoy holiday festivities and light the town. All ages. Old Town Timnath, 4100 Main St., Timnath. 5–7pm. www.timnath.org/holiday-lightingfestival-2019.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Santa Library Visit Come for a special story, holiday craft and Santa visit. Don’t forget your camera!

Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 11am. 888-861-7323 www.MyLibrary.us.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Visit Santa & Mrs. Claus at Greeley Festival of Trees A winter wonderland of decorated trees and displays, musicians, crafts and more from 1–5pm and visit St. Nick and Mrs. Claus from 1:30–3:30pm. All ages. $3/ adult, $2/child ages 1–12 and seniors.

Union Colony Civic Center’s lobbies, 701 10th Ave., GR. www.greeleygov.com/ activities/fot/festival-of-trees.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 Santa Library Visit Come for a special story, holiday craft and Santa visit. Don’t forget your camera! Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Windsor Wonderland Family activities and live holiday music that kicks off with Santa’s arrival.

Concludes with holiday treats and tree lighting ceremony. Downtown Windsor/ Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., WS. Noon–5pm. www.windsorgov.com/ calendar.aspx.

Jessup Farm Winter Festival Free photos with Santa, hot cocoa bar, letters to Santa and ornament craft. Jessup Farm Artisan Village, 1921 Jessup Dr., FC. 2–5pm. www.jessupfarm.com.

Members-Only Night Trains with Santa Members-only event with cookies, Christmas music and Santa running the trains with only the city lights of Oregon.

Colorado Model Railroad Museum, 680 10th St., GR. 5–8pm. 392-2934, www.cmrm.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 Night Trains with Santa Enjoy cookies, Christmas music and Santa running the trains with only the city lights of Oregon. Colorado Model Railroad Museum, 680 10th St., GR. 5–8pm.

392-2934, www.cmrm.org.

RMPARENT

| 45

46

| RMPARENT

Every BODY, Every ABILITY!

ballet she actually knows. It’s really amazing to see how much she has learned. Physically, Charlie has gained more body awareness. Her teachers at school report that she has Charlie is 9 years old. I wanted

developed a love of classical

to get her involved in an activity,

music while she’s working. I’ve

but she is Autistic, so our

also caught her interacting with

options are limited. I called

her brothers in a more positive

dancer counts and no

Ixchel to see if she would take

way when she’s trying to teach

one is overlooked.”

us on for private lessons and

them some moves.

—Deneice Dyer

she said yes, so we started right away. Our experience has been

I would enthusiastically

outstanding. Charlie loves going

encourage parents to enroll their

every week. Ixchel has a natural

children. Ixchel is an incredible,

way with her, even when Charlie

once-in-a-lifetime teacher. She

is having a difficult day.

is universally adored by her

“At Front Range Classical Ballet Academy, every

PETITE BALLERINA DIRECTOR

students, she is one of Charlie’s

970.980.8425 3501 S. Mason Street

Charlie struggles with behaviors

favorite people ever. She

Unit 1, Fort Collins

and it can be difficult to see

somehow walks the line between

www.FRCBallet.com

how much she actually retains.

being incredibly kind and patient

There are times in lessons when

and really getting into the nitty-

suddenly she shows all the

gritty details of ballet.

Winter registration is open!

RMPARENT

| 47

time out The case of the missing tooth Back off Dad, I’ve got this

TONY PENNINGTON

G

rayson sealed his mouth with interlocked fingers. Face and hands were painted with tension, but his voice was emphatic.

“You lied!”

True.

“You said you were only going to wiggle it!”

Also true.

“I won’t trust you anymore!”

That last statement stung a bit, and it would be another 20 minutes before Grayson was ready to speak to me in a civil tone.

“You are right,” I said. “I did lie to you, and I am sorry. Could I please wiggle your tooth one more time? I want to be sure everything is OK.” His response comprised of a stare equal parts fire and daggers.

“You will just try to yank it out again. I don’t trust you.”

“I apologized for that. I just want to wiggle it and make sure everything is OK” “Promise?”

“I promise. Just a wiggle” The agreement followed a lengthy hesitation. He opened his mouth.

I tried to pull the tooth out again.

It was not a successful extraction.

The cajoling and finger-crossed statements resulted in the upper left central incisor positioned, roughly, 20 to 30 degrees to the right. The gum simply refused to release its hold and let the Tooth Fairy add Grayson to the list. Sarah and I had not anticipated this tooth to be any different than the other two.

Grayson’s first tooth practically jumped out of his mouth into my hand.

He was shocked, but the tears were minimal. He greeted the second occasion with laughter and excitement. He was going to buy all the Pokemon cards at Target. The third brought a torrent of 48

| RMPARENT

tears, some blood and a near unending string of broken promises. Every time Grayson opened his mouth, I saw that crooked incisor mocking me.

In the days that followed the failed removal, Grayson’s thumb was a permanent fixture in his mouth. He said it was to prevent me from trying to take his tooth and so he could wiggle it. In between bites of food, he wiggled it. Breaks at lacrosse practice, he wiggled it. Curled up in bed, he wiggled it. Instead of playing during recess, he wiggled it. We know this because Sarah received a surprise email from Grayson’s teacher.

“I wanted to let you know that Grayson lost his tooth on the field today, during morning recess.The whole first grade looked for it, but we never found it. I wrote the tooth fairy a note vouching for the lost tooth so Grayson has something to put under his pillow tonight ;).”

Sarah called and shared the email with me. She said she had visions of the first grade in FBI field jackets sweeping the playground as part of a grand forensic exercise. In return, I had thoughts of Tommy Lee Jones in

the Fugitive, “ Listen up, ladies and gentlemen. Our tooth has been on the run for 90 minutes. What I want out of each and every one of you is a hard-target search of every gas station, residence, warehouse, farmhouse, henhouse, outhouse and doghouse in the area. Checkpoints go up at fifteen miles. Your fugitive’s name is Upper Left Central Incisor. Go get him.”

I expected a dejected 6-year-old at the bus stop that afternoon, and I was wrong. Grayson was in high spirits. He couldn’t wait to tell me about the tooth hunt and how they had extra recess time.

He handed me the note written by his teacher for the Tooth Fairy and informed me it was just as good as the tooth.

We called Sarah and shared Grayson’s good news. He was excited for bedtime and the impending visit from the Tooth Fairy. He also announced his intentions to keep looking for his tooth. Sarah reassured him the note was more than enough for the Tooth Fairy. She later confessed to me that she was concerned what a motivated first-grader might unearth and bring home after a rigorous combing of the playground.

RMPARENT

| 49

50

| RMPARENT