RM Parent Magazine | July | 2026

JULY 2026 • RMPARENT.COM

Balancing the budget Keep kids’ health on track

Tackle a new adventure

Baking with locally sourced ingredients

Apps to help busy families stay organized

CELEBRATING 31 YEARS OF SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO FAMILIES

RMPARENT

|1

fort collins

fort collins

COOL AND FUN HAIRCUTS GET $5 OFF

!

YOUR NEXT HAIRCUT!

BOOK NOW!

MENTION THIS AD TO

WON KOOB

FOR KIDS AND PARENTS! PARENTS!

(970) 237-5984 fort collins

fort collins

@SharkeysFortCollins 3500 S College Ave., Ste 196 (Next to Trader Joe’s)

SHARKEYSCUTSFORKIDSFORTCOLLINS.COM

2 | RMPARENT

TICKETS: LCTix.com

THE OKEE DOKEE BROTHERS Saturday, July 18 • 6 p.m.

Fresh air, family fun and feel-good tunes! Don’t miss The Okee Dokee Brothers live at The Gardens on Spring Creek.

RMPARENT

|3

Foster Hope.

Foster Love.

Foster Care.

Foster families make a big difference in the lives of youth needing a safe place to land.

Attend an orientation to learn more!

EVENT DETAILS 10 to 11 a.m.

(Q&A and networking to follow until 11:30 a.m.)

JEWISH LEARNING

with Heart!

A warm, inclusive Reform Jewish program for ages 3-11 • Hebrew, Holidays, Prayers, Music, Stories, Ethics • Creative Environment • Inter-faith Families Welcome

SUNDAY MORNINGS, TWICE MONTHLY

Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism

Registration Open FOR AUGUST START DATE

education@templeorhadash.org

4 | RMPARENT

contents

DEPARTMENTS 6 Perspective

The joy of adventure

8 Family

Health

Keep kids’ health on track—Routines, wellchecks and less screen time

10 Family Fun

Tackle a new adventure—Boating, biking and rock climbing

12 F avorite Things

Baking with locally sourced Ingredients—Local honey, herbs and spices and fruits

14 T ech Time

Apps to help busy families stay organized— Find the app that works for your family

30 C alendar

Events and activities for parents,

kids and families

34 Time

out

Leave room for laughter in competitive sports

FEATURE 18 Balancing the budget

Raising children can be expensive. Kids need

SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS 22 Poudre

PSD student-athletes bring home state titles in multiple sports during spring sports season

clothes, food, healthcare and so much more. And

then you add in the extras—clubs, sports, recreation and adventures. Budgeting can seem daunting.

Check out these strategies to help families save money and manage debt.

24 Thompson

Finn Richter demonstrates strength through determination

26 Greeley Dist 6

The D6 Difference: Tori Heep, Tointon Academy of Pre-Engineering

SPECIAL SECTION Browse activities and enrichment opportunities for your kids and family.

RMPARENT

|5

Perspective

SCOTT TITTERINGTON

The joy of adventure Last summer we loaded the car with camping gear, boats and groceries and headed for the Upper Colorado River south of Kremling. We were three generations from our family plus a long-time family friend and a teenage exchange student putting on the river for a three-day float. Our entourage headed downstream on this family-friendly, class 3 river, in two oar-rigged rafts, a ducky, a small cataraft and a paddleboard.

Fin, our 4-year-old grandson, rode next to Kristin up front while I rowed.

It felt like an adventure as we bounced through the first rapids that form at the beginning of the first canyon. Later that day we tied up near a hot springs alongside the river and joined other boaters for a soak.

Camp that night was in a shady cedar grove. The sky was crystal clear, and the Milky Way flowed across the sky. No light pollution here in the middle of nowhere. River camps are special that way. It’s easy to get far away from roads and towns. The only sound was the murmur of the river and the calls of the birds. No noise pollution here in the middle of nowhere.

The next day we got up slowly, cooked and ate breakfast, loaded the boats and headed downstream. A great thing about river trips is the simplicity of life: eat, pack, float, unpack, make camp, eat, sleep, repeat.

We love the adventure on the river and hanging out in camp together.

Of course, there are many other ways to have a family adventure. It could be a camping trip with day hikes or lake floating or bike rides or just playing games around camp. Nothing is scripted. It’s all make it up as you go. We don’t even need the camping part. We just need to get out of the house and wander over to the dirt pile across the street.

All we need for an adventure is to get out there and do something and see how it goes. Not every adventure has to be an Odyssey. Adventure requires us to step out of our normal routines, our regular mindsets, and our comfortable place to take a little risk, and not a life-and-limb risk. We can risk getting cold and wet or maybe hungry for a little bit, or uncomfortable and maybe a little scared. Ambiguity, not knowing how things might go, is scary until you get used to it, and then (warning) you might find that you thrive on it. Nothing focuses you on the present moment quite like a tinge of fear.

Some adventures, though, require more than just a willingness to get out there. Some require some experience and skills. In her Family Fun column this month, Katie Harris explores some of the adventures that our region has to offer and programs that help build skills to help you adventure safely and competently.

I encourage you to try something new and to encourage your kids to try something new and challenging. No time like the present to be present on an adventure.

Happy trails, Scott

6 | RMPARENT

JULY 2026 • Volume 31, Issue 2 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 Susan Harting susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com COVER PHOTO

istock photo

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2026 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNER:

Summer Reading Adventure 2026

May 18-August 8 • Ages Birth to 18

Need a little extra help?

We’re here for you.

Groceries for the household Clothing & household items Utility assistance, and more BERTHOUD Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9-5 375 Meadowlark Dr. | hosted at Grace Place House of Neighborly Service

honservice.org

LOVELAND Monday-Wednesday, 9-4 | Thursdays, 9-6 1511 E. 11th St. | at the Life Center 2026 Artwork by Tom Bonson

RMPARENT

|7

Family Health LEA HANSON Keep kids’ health on track—routines, well-checks and less screen time AS SUMMER WINDS DOWN and the new school year approaches, now is a valuable opportunity to reset healthy habits before schedules become busier. From scheduling annual checkups and sports physicals to reestablishing screen-time boundaries and bedtime routines, small steps taken now can make the transition back to school smoother for both children and parents. These simple healthfocused strategies can help kids start the year feeling their best— physically, mentally, and emotionally—while setting the foundation for a successful school year ahead.

Less screen time During a summer of flexible schedules, extra gaming time, and long afternoons with tablets and TVs, many families find that screen time habits have expanded beyond what feels healthy. Now is a great time to reset.

Rather than eliminating screens overnight, focus on gradually reestablishing boundaries. Create screen-free times during meals, family activities, and the hour before bedtime. Replacing recreational screen use with outdoor play, reading, sports, or other hobbies can help children transition into a more balanced routine while supporting both physical and mental health.

According to pediatric guidance shared by UCHealth, the goal isn’t to avoid technology altogether but to develop a healthy relationship with it. Pediatrician Dr. Patrick Grathwohl notes that screen use should not interfere with sleep, physical activity, family time, or in-person social interactions. He also recommends keeping devices out of bedrooms and creating a family charging station in a common area to support better sleep habits.

Parents should remember that children often follow their example.

Establishing family-wide expectations around device use—and putting down your own phone during meals and conversations—can be just as important as setting limits for kids.

Routines & habits After a summer of later bedtimes, relaxed schedules, and spontaneous days, the return to school can be a challenge for both kids and parents. The key to a healthy transition is reintroducing routines well before the first day of class. Start by gradually shifting bedtimes and wake-up times. Moving schedules by 15 to 30 minutes every few days helps children adjust more easily than making a sudden change. Sleep plays a critical role in physical health, emotional regulation, learning, and concentration, making it one of the most important back-to-school habits to prioritize. Most school-

8 | RMPARENT

Schedule annual checkups July and August are great for scheduling your child’s annual health appointments. Before school, sports, and extracurricular activities fill the calendar, families have a valuable opportunity to check important health tasks off their list including medical well-child visits, dental checkups, vision exams, and sports physicals.

Annual wellness visits do more than update immunizations. “Regular well-child visits are important because they give us the opportunity to partner with families to support a child’s physical, emotional and developmental health,” says Dr. Stephanie Liu, a pediatrician with UCHealth Pediatric Care in Fort Collins. In published UCHealth guidance, Liu emphasizes that preventive visits help identify concerns early, when they are often easiest to address.

Dental appointments are equally important.

Summer schedules often make it easier to fit in preventive care.

aged children need 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night, while teens need 8 to 10 hours.

“It’s best to start adjusting to a schooltime schedule well before the school year starts to prevent negative effects on health, behavior and school performance,” advises UCHealth in its back-to-school health guidance for parents.

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine—whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or preparing for the next day—helps signal to a child’s body that it’s time to wind down and sleep. Parents can also ease the transition by reestablishing regular mealtimes, encouraging daily physical activity, and limiting screen use before bed.

O Fe t h e R v i A Gif 5G Y E

E DUC

Films.

Pizza.

Beer.

What more could you want from your local indie theater?

NC

E

Health

Massage and Esthetician programs

of

3 thAT IONAL EXC

LE EL

NC I A L AID & SCHOL ARS FINA H I P S AV

A IL A B L E F O R T H O

S E W H O Q U A L IF Y

GIFT CARDS FOR SALE

Call to schedule your massage.

970-353-1047

Student therapists available at discounted rates.

www.natural-therapy.com | 625 8th Ave. | Greeley

Check out lyriccinema.com for showtimes.

1209 N College Ave, Fort Collins, Co.

Advertise Your Camp With Us!

Call Greg Hoffman at 970.689.6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com RMPARENT

|9

Family Fun

KATIE HARRIS

Tackle a new adventure ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD’S sense of adventure by introducing them to a new hobby— or leveling up in a current one—this summer.

Whether gliding across the water, cruising on land or climbing to new heights, Northern Colorado is just the place to get started.

Rock climbing Sojourner Mountain Guides offers guided rock-climbing trips and lessons at Horsetooth Reservoir. Private lessons are customizable while group trips are available for all skill levels, from beginner knot tying and belaying to rappelling. Age requirements vary for group climbs (sojournermountainguides.com/).

NoCo Climbing Guides and Ascent Studio are offering five-day indoor/outdoor camps for beginner to intermediate climbers ages 10 to 17 throughout the summer. Campers will spend three days learning techniques at Ascent’s indoor climbing gym, followed by two days at Lory State Park or Duncan’s Ridge taking their new skills outdoors. Cost is $200 and all gear is included (nococlimbingguides.com/).

Youth interested in climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park can participate in a climbing camp or sign up for a half-day guided climb with a private guide through KMAC Guides. All ages are welcome on private climbs while camps have a minimum age of 13 (kmacguides.com/).

Colorado Mountain School offers guided half-day intro climbs in Estes Park May through August. Geared toward families with kids ages 6 and up, the climbs take place on easy routes, cover basic techniques and include all needed gear. Cost is $169 per climber (coloradomountainschool.com/).

10 | RMPARENT

Biking Ben’s Pro Tips in Windsor offers mountain bike coaching to riders of all ages and skill levels. Through private and semi-private lessons and group clinics, beginner riders can develop safety and confidence while riders with more experience can sharpen their riding technique and jump skills (bensprotipsllc.com/).

In Boulder, the nonprofit Pedaling Minds offers cycling instruction for kids, covering everything from riding a bike for the first time to advancing their skills. Camps and clinics take place all summer long and private lessons are available. Costs vary with scholarships available (pedalingminds.org/).

Kids wanting to practice on their own can visit the Berthoud Bike Park.

This admission-free park offers two extensive jump/flow lines, a quartermile dual slalom track, one mile of cross-country mountain bike trails, a bicycle playground and an approximately 20,000 sq ft pump track (berthoud.org/1465/Berthoud-Bike-Park).

Boating In Fort Collins, the NOCO Junior Crew rowing team meets year-round, conditioning during the winter months and competing during the spring, summer and fall seasons. The organization offers beginner camps and workshops for those just starting out. After completing a workshop, youth have the option of joining the team, provided they are able to tread water for 10 minutes and lift 25 pounds over their head. Activities take place at the Inlet Bay Marina at Horsetooth Reservoir (fcrowing.org/juniors).

Youth ages 8 to 17 can learn to sail at Carter Lake Sailing Club’s junior sailing camp, taking place July 13 through 18th this year. Topics covered during the $395 camp include boating safety, knots, boat rigging and fundamental sailing techniques (sailcarter.org/jr-sailing/). Applicants will be waitlisted if spots fill.

In Longmont, ABLE to SAIL offers youth empowerment camps throughout the summer, teaching sailing basics like capsize recovery, parts of the boat, skippering, crewing and knots, all taught by a U.S. Sailing Certified Instructor (abletosail.org/).

July Sidewalk Sale19

N OW 2-YE ACCEPT AR-O ING LDS !

July 16th- th

Ages 2 through 5 years

Preschool is 9am-12pm • Pre-K is 8am-1pm

COLORADO SHINES LEVEL 5 PROGRAM

Christian values • Small class sizes • Experienced staff Modern and natural classrooms • Nonprofit ministry WE PARTICIPATE IN UNIVERSAL PRE-K 970.226.2341 | MorningGloryPreschoolFC.org 301 East Drake Road | Fort Collins

Shop in-store, by phone or at ClothesPony.com

! $ (970) 224-2866 • 111 N. College Ave.

RMPARENT

| 11

Favorite Things

LEA HANSON

Baking with locally sourced Ingredients Northern Colorado’s local food scene is rich with small farms and producers bringing fresh, seasonal ingredients straight from the field and hive to the kitchen. Find a multitude of local farms, each offering a distinct way to elevate everyday cooking and baking. These growers emphasize quality, sustainability, and flavor at peak freshness.

Ingredients that don’t just support local agriculture, but also transform simple recipes into something memorable. Whether you’re sweetening tea, infusing baked goods with herbs, or folding fresh greens into savory breads and pastries, these Northern Colorado farms make it easy to bring bold, farm-to-table (and farm-to-oven) flavor into your home kitchen year-round.

Honey from St. Michael’s Farms Fort Collins, www.stmichaelsfarms.com/ Looking for honey that’s as local as it gets? St. Michael’s Farms brings the taste of Northern Colorado straight from the hive to your table. Familyowned and based in Fort Collins, the farm produces raw local honey and unique infused varieties crafted with herbs, spices, flowers, and berries. Founded by passionate growers and beekeepers, St. Michael’s Farms is committed to natural, high-quality products that celebrate the best of Colorado agriculture.

Whether you’re sweetening your morning tea, elevating a recipe, or searching for a thoughtful local gift, their honey offers pure flavor with a farm-to-jar story you can feel good about supporting.

12 | RMPARENT

Herbs & Spices from Dandelion Farms Fort Collins www.dandelion farmsnoco.com/ For bakers who want to bring more depth and seasonal character into their recipes, Dandelion Farms in Northern Colorado offers thoughtfully grown herbs and botanicals that shine in the kitchen. Based in the Fort Collins area, the farm cultivates small batches of herbs and spices with care for both flavor and sustainability. Their ingredients are ideal for elevating everyday baking: rosemary folded into savory breads, lavender in shortbread or scones, and thyme or basil adding subtle complexity to rustic pastries. Because the herbs are freshly grown and carefully harvested, they deliver more vibrant aroma and flavor than typical store-bought options. A simple pinch can transform a basic recipe into something memorable, from citrus-herb glazes to fragrant, garden-inspired baked goods that reflect the season and the land.

Fruits from Scofield Fruits Loveland, https://scofieldfruits.com/ Scofield Fruits in Loveland is a longtime Northern Colorado favorite, offering the best of the region’s seasonal harvest straight from local orchards and farms. Family-owned since 1985, the market is known for its famously juicy Palisade peaches, sweet cherries, Rocky Ford melons, vine-ripened tomatoes, and more…. All freshly picked at peak ripeness. Beyond eating fresh, their fruit is perfect for baking: think peach cobblers, cherry pies, rustic galettes, and summer crisps that highlight natural sweetness without extra fuss. With a rotating selection that follows Colorado’s growing seasons, Scofield Fruits makes it easy for home bakers to turn simple recipes into standout desserts full of local flavor.

UNEARTH A STORY DESENTIERRA UNA HISTORIA

O5/27 - O8/14

POUDRELIBRARIES.ORG/SUMMER

SPONSORED BY RMPARENT

| 13

Family Tech

KATIE HARRIS

Apps to help busy families stay organized THIS MONTH’S SELECTION of apps are designed to help families get—and stay—on the same page by offering sharable calendars, lists and reminders. No more, “What time’s the game tonight” or “What time are you picking up the kids.” With an organizer app, family members can share schedule updates, track expenses and create reminders to stay on the same page no matter what life brings.

Cozi Family Organizer

This all-in-one organizing app allows family members to view and edit shared, color-coded calendars, reminder lists, to-do lists, shopping lists and recipes.

Parents can share chore checklists with their kids, family members can add items to an editable grocery list, and sports schedules can be easily tracked by the whole family. The app can be used to create vacation packing lists, share weekly dinner schedules and set event reminders.

Families share one account, accessed by their individual email addresses and a shared password, making it easy for everyone to stay logged in and up to date on family happenings. Most features are free, while a subscription version allows families to schedule events more than 30 days in advance, track birthdays, and utilize monthly calendar views.

Maple Family Assistant

This AI family assistant app offers a shared family calendar, family email inbox, meal planner, notepad, to-do list, shopping list and chore list. The builtin Maple Assistant creates tasks from emails and helps coordinate and find conflicts in the family’s schedule. When family members log on, they’ll be greeted by a briefing screen, informing them of upcoming events for the day, to-do items, unread emails and the day’s meal schedule. Families can use the app to share recipe ideas, DIY project inspiration and vacation planning ideas.

Basic features are included in the free version, while upgraded options, like external calendar syncing, email importing and private family messaging require a subscription.

14 | RMPARENT

OurFamilyWizard

Designed to simplify co-parenting, this app makes it easy to streamline schedules and shared expenses, while providing an avenue for healthy communication. The app utilizes a yes/no form of structured conversation and an AI editor to help phrase difficult messages while avoiding conflict, which can be customized to fit any family situation. Requests, schedule changes and expenses are documented, making it a recommended choice by many court systems. The app also keeps health and safety information all in one place so that parents know kids are safe when they’re away.

The “essential” version costs $12.50 per month and includes 45 minutes per month of documented video and audio calls, a writing assistant, schedule coordinating, expense tracking and GPS-verified check-ins. Premium and max versions are also available.

Superlist

This list-making app can be used to store tasks, reminders, shopping lists, chore lists and deadlines, all in one place. Stay on top of work and home life by keeping everything you need to remember in the same app, using voice recordings and summarizing meeting notes to save time and stay organized. Share the lists you want to with family members while keeping work projects separate, but easily findable on the same home page. The app helps you break large projects down into smaller, manageable tasks, keeping everything nested under an easily navigated list of headings to make swapping between tasks simple for multi-tasking parents.

The essentials—five private and shared lists and unlimited tasks and notes—are free, while features like AI assistance, email summarization and unlimited lists require a paid subscription starting at $5 per month.

COME VISIT US AT:

1540 Main St #242 Windsor, CO 80550 NEW WINDSOR MARKETPLACE

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES AT FLOYDSBARBERSHOP.COM H 970-509-4080

You drive the best cars in the world,

we service them.

CELEBRATING OUR

32ND YEAR

Independent European Auto Service  8-Bay Full Service Repair Facility

VISIT US

 Best Industry Trained Technicians

CALL FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

970.484.0040

 Family Owned & Operated for over 31 Years

802 East Mulberry St. • Fort Collins

Corner of Mulberry and Riverside Ave.

 Courtesy Transportation  Hunter Alignment Service  State-of-the-art diagnostic & scanning equipment

EuropeanMotorCarsInc.com

MERCEDES • BMW • JAGUAR • VOLKSWAGEN • AUDI • PORSCHE • VOLVO • LAND ROVER • MINI COOPER RMPARENT | 15

E A R S E O H N, T E R A KIDS CARS ARE THE EXCUSE!

Timberline’s 5th Annual Car Show adopted the slogan: KIDS ARE THE REASON, CARS ARE THE EXCUSE two years ago to bring focus to the “why” behind the family friendly community event built around unique and antique cars. The slogan reinforces the mindset of support for local foster kids through Royal Family KIDS (RFK). We want foster kids to know they belong to a community that sees them and cares about their needs.

RFK, a week-long camp, creates powerful, life-changing moments for these foster kids in Larimer and Weld Counties who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned. The goal is to restore hope and interrupt the cycles of abuse by 16 | RMPARENT

pointing kids toward Jesus. It is not unusual

music, and food! Foster kids receive a free

for campers, who are age 7 to 12, to return as

backpack stuffed with schools supplies at the

camp counselors when they age out of the

show. The event is free for spectators and

program. It is that impactful! Let’s come

car registration; therefore, sponsorships and

together and be a community that leads the

donations are appreciated.

way to make a difference in the lives of these young people.

In addition to cool cars, the car show offers Kid Choice Awards, an inflatable for kids, live

August 8th from 8:00am – 12:00 noon in the Timberline Church Parking Lot. The QR code provides more information on sponsorship, donation or registration of a car.

RMPARENT

| 17

Balancing the budget STRATEGIES TO HELP FAMILIES SAVE MONEY AND MANAGE DEBT

Katie Harris

RAISING KIDS COMES WITH an endless stream of expenses. Between groceries, sports fees, summer camps, school fundraisers, clothing, transportation and housing, families can feel like their paychecks disappear almost as quickly as they come in.

Northern Colorado financial coaches Penny Kidd of Pennywise Coaching and Carter Barnes of Barnes Financial Coaching say parents who come to them often feel like they’re working hard but aren’t sure where their money is going.

“A lot of people are either living paycheck to paycheck, or they feel like they make a lot each month but it all seems to go to minimum credit card and loan payments,” says Barnes.

Financial coaches help families develop practical money habits, create budgets and eliminate debt. Kidd and Barnes agree that the first step to cutting costs is to have a plan.

SPENDING WITH INTENTION Kidd came to financial coaching through her own family’s financial journey.

18 | RMPARENT

A former social worker, she and her husband found themselves with $30,000 in debt while raising two children. Determined to change their future, they developed a budgeting system that eventually allowed them to pay off their mortgage, remain debt-free and cash-flow their children’s college expenses.

Today, Kidd describes herself as “a social worker around money.”

“I don’t see myself as a financial person,” she says. “You don’t need financial savvy to do this.

It’s really about spending with intention.”

Now Kidd helps others get into the same mindset. She says money can be an emotional topic, and many clients arrive feeling stressed or overwhelmed about debt.

“No one wants to talk about their credit card debt,” she says. “People feel ashamed, but when we hide things in the closet they don’t improve.”

Instead of telling clients what they should spend, Kidd helps them identify their goals and align their spending accordingly.

“We figure out what’s important to them and

how to prioritize those things while still having some joy in life without overspending,” she says.

WHERE PARENTS GET STUCK Raising a family comes with a unique set of budgeting challenges. Sports fees, music lessons, school supplies and summer camps can create significant financial strain, and many families underestimate how much these irregular expenses add up over the course of a year.

“Parents think they don’t shop for clothes very often, but then there’s back-to-school shopping, winter gear and outgrown shoes,” Kidd says.

Barnes sees similar struggles, especially during summer when families are looking for ways to keep children entertained.

“Activities like the zoo or aquarium are expensive,” he says. “We have to make some sacrifices and ask what else we can do to still have fun.”

His own family spends time fishing together, an affordable activity that creates memories without breaking the budget.

The key, according to both coaches, is to plan ahead for these expenses rather than treating them as surprises.

GIVE EVERY DOLLAR A JOB One of Kidd’s favorite tools is a budget which assigns every dollar a purpose before it’s spent.

“I teach a zero-based budget,” she says. “Before you start spending, divvy out every dollar you’ll have for expenses or savings.”

Using this approach, savings, emergency funds and future goals all receive designated amounts within the budget. This helps families prepare for predictable but irregular expenses.

“If you want to go to a concert, maybe you take from your vacation fund,” Kidd says. “The goal is having money set aside for whatever comes up.”

Barnes encourages families to start by examining where their money currently goes. He advises clients to gather three months of bank statements and use highlighters to categorize expenses into necessities, debt payments and discretionary spending.

“Money is like a toddler,” Barnes says. “If you don’t tell it what to do, it’s going to create a mess sometimes.”

Once families identify spending patterns, they can spot opportunities to make changes.

THE SAVINGS CHALLENGE Both coaches stress the importance of building savings, even while paying down debt. This means thinking past what’s currently due, and leaving a cushion for medical expenses, job loss and seasonal costs.

“People often pay their bills and spend the rest,” Kidd says. “They don’t have a good grasp on how much they’ll need for Christmas, car repairs or emergencies.”

Credit cards often become the fallback solution, but today’s high interest rates can make debt hard to escape.

“Credit cards have become really predatory,” Kidd says.

“Twenty-six to 29 percent interest is common now, and that eats away at your opportunity to build wealth.”

For families trying to save, Barnes recommends reviewing subscriptions and recurring charges.

“I had a gym continue charging my card after I canceled my membership months earlier,” he says. “Check your accounts and make sure you know where your money is going.”

WHEN INCOME ISN’T PREDICTABLE Budgeting becomes even more challenging when income is irregular. Teachers, real estate agents, artists, self-employed workers and people with side hustles often experience significant variation in monthly earnings.

Kidd recommends creating what she calls a “hill and valley fund” to smooth out those fluctuations.

“The first extra line item might be a gap fund,” she says.

“Don’t spend everything during the high months.”

Barnes uses a similar approach, advising clients to review their last three to six months of income and build their budget around the lowest month during that period.

“If you can make your necessities work on the lowest income month, that’s a good baseline,” he says. Any income earned above that baseline can help build savings or prepare for slower months ahead.

For those who can’t pay basic expenses during the low months, Barnes says a second job or side hustle during the slow months might be necessary.

TEACHING KIDS ABOUT MONEY Both coaches say parents should involve children in ageappropriate financial conversations.

While this doesn’t necessarily mean sharing every financial detail, she says children can learn valuable lessons by helping compare grocery prices, understanding clothing budgets and discussing tradeoffs.

“If your child wants a name-brand item, maybe they pay the difference,” Kidd suggests.

These conversations help children understand the value of money and that spending requires prioritizing.

SMALL STEPS TO SUCCESS For families feeling overwhelmed, the best advice is to start now.

“You might not have it all figured out yet, but stop pushing budgeting aside and start taking baby steps in the right direction,” says Kidd.

Parents who are juggling today’s expenses while planning for tomorrow can use a budget to start spending intentionally, reduce stress and build a more secure future— one dollar at a time.

RMPARENT

| 19

Helping NoCo Sellers and Buyers Achieve their Real Estate Dreams since 2001!

Angie Spangler

Broker Associate CLHMS, CRS, CNE, Green Cell: 970-402-6430 angiespangler@remax.net

Brian Lantis

Broker Associate Cell: 970-799-9468 brianlantis@remax.net

The Angie Spangler Team

REALTORS

AngieSpanglerTeamRealEstate.com

Call today to learn how we can help with your real estate needs.

➨ The Angie Spangler Team advocates for Sellers and Buyers working in their best interest. ➨ We have 24 years of experience in local, residential real estate sales representing a diverse range of clients and properties. ➨ We service all of Fort Collins and Northern Colorado providing clients with exemplary customer service & representation.

20 | RMPARENT | Fun in the Sun

FIT AND FUN!

ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT Fit and Fun | RMPARENT | 1

The Dream Starts Here!

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

H H Bring in this ad and receive 2 free classes! H H — For new customers only —

• Beginner - Advanced Girls & Boys LOVELAND

• Kids Open Gyms • Birthday Parties • Preschool Classes

1410 E. 11th St. PremierGymnastics.net

• Summer Camps • Competitive Teams GREELEY

5699 W. 20th St., Suite 500 PremierGymnasticsEast.net

970-663-3173

2 | RMPARENT | Fit and Fun

Are you concerned about your child’s emotional well-being?

If they’re struggling with anxiety, depression or other behavioral health challenges, our CAYAC team can put them on the right path to better health and rediscovered confidence.

Psychological assessment and testing Care coordination Local referrals

Find help today 970-221-3308 No-cost and sliding-fee services are available.

HOURS:

Fort Collins: 7am -6pm Loveland: 6:30am -6pm

• Universal Pre-K • Infant and Toddler care • Utilize Creative Curriculum • CO Shines level 4 • Financial Assist Available • Dedicated Staff • Nonprofit Agency

teaching-tree.org LOVELAND 2366 East 1st St. (970) 667-7240

FORT COLLINS 424 Pine St. (970) 493-2628

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

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

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

Greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

. . . . OR . . . .

Scott at 970-980-9183

Scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

Fit and Fun | RMPARENT | 3

$56(1$/ $56(1$/ &2/25$'2 &2/25$'2

)$// 5(&5($7,21$/

62&&(5

$*(6 9LVLW RXU ZHEVLWH IRU PRUH LQIR

5(*,67(5 72'$<

Fun | | Fit 6 &ROOHJH $YH )RUW &ROOLQV &2 ZZZ VRFFHUIRUWFROOLQV RUJ 4

RMPARENT

and

with with Cole Cole Goodwin Goodwin

RODEOS & EVENTS PRCA PRORODEO SERIES

June 24 - July 5

Official Tickets at GreeleyStampede.org

UPDATED SECURITY Know Before You Go

Tickets are available online at greeleystampede.org (additional online fees apply). Or stop by the ticket office Monday–Friday, 10am–4pm at 600 N 14th Ave, Island Grove Park. Prefer the phone? Call 970-356-7787.

RMPARENT

| 21

School District News: Poudre

PSD student-athletes bring home state titles

With the end of the spring sports calendar comes state championships, and PSD student-athletes brought their all this year, claiming numerous state titles in multiple sports.

State soccer The Fossil Ridge High School girls soccer team has certainly stamped itself in the history books of Poudre School District and Colorado high school sports, winning its second consecutive state championship after a dominant performance throughout the state playoffs and championship match to claim the Class 5A title.

The SaberCats took down Mountain Vista in an overtime battle in Colorado Springs, capping off more than a week of playoff against teams from across Colorado. Senior Reese Morgan brought the team to victory, scoring the winning goal with only six seconds left in the first overtime of the match— her second overtime-winning goal of this year’s playoffs—to win the backto-back title 2-1.

22 | RMPARENT

State track Over a three-day event in May, students from across Fort Collins left it all on the track, bringing back numerous titles in numerous categories.

•F ort Collins boys took first place in the 5A boys teams category •C adel Ruthven of Fort Collins won the boys 5A 1600 meter category •F ort Collins boys won the 5A boys 4 x 200 meter category and set a meet record •A ddyson Smith of Fossil Ridge won the 5A girls 100 meter and the 5A girls 200 meter categories •K aia Bennett of Rocky Mountain won the 5A girls discus category •F ossil Ridge girls placed fourth in the 5A girls team category •T imnath Middle-High school in the 4A girls team category Learn more about state track! www. psdschools.org/news/FRHS-girlssoccer-win-state-again State golf The Timnath Middle-High School girls’ golf team won the Class 3A title as

well as individual honors during the state golf tournament. Over a two-day competition in Denver, the Cubs scored an impressive win over competitors from across the state, finishing 13 strokes over par and ending with nearly a 30-stroke lead ahead of the secondplace team to claim the 3A title.

In individual rankings, junior Cheyanne Schrick placed first, freshman Peyton Landon placed second, and freshman Isla Carlucci tied a senior from Littleton High School for third. This is the second straight year that Cheyanne Schrick has placed first in the state golf competition, finishing this year’s competition 2 under par. Fellow Timnath golfer Sienna Schrick also placed 21st in the state competition.

Learn more about state golf! www. psdschools.org/news/timnath-girls-golfwin-state Congratulations to these state champions as well as all PSD student-athletes who participated in these competitions as illustrated by how hard they work every day for the game they love!

RMPARENT

| 23

School District News: Thompson Finn Richter demonstrates strength through determination When Finn Richter walks across the stage to get his high school diploma this week, he will accomplish a goal that many people—including Finn himself— once worried he might never achieve.

“There was a time I debated giving up and getting my GED. I felt like whatever I did, I couldn’t get it right,” Finn recalls. “You have to be super determined and push yourself forward, really apply yourself.”

About halfway through high school, Finn decided to transfer to Ferguson High School. Suddenly, after several years of turmoil at school, including substance abuse issues and barely attending most days, Finn realized he could do better.

“I had to snap out of it,” Finn says.

“This is my future we’re talking about.”

One of the key pieces of success, Finn says, is building connections with others.

“Keep pushing. You’re not invisible,” he says. “You need to stay true to yourself, no matter who has an opinion on it. Be friends with people who make you happy. Be a nice person. Be a kind person. You can never know what other people are going through. You have the ability to do the right stuff.”

For Finn, that meant showing up, communicating with his teachers, and, slowly but surely, watching his grades start to rise. He focused more on his academics, while also maintaining his position playing trumpet in the marching band at Loveland High, something he had always been passionate about, and working several days a week at a restaurant.

“It felt very strange to go from failing all of my classes freshman year to passing every single class with at least a B,” Finn says.

Finn also loves doing hands-on work and is a talented welder. He will finish high school with a welding certification, and hopes to travel

24 | RMPARENT

around the United States doing pipe welding. However, all of that comes after the ceremony, which for Finn is an important symbol of the many challenges he has overcome.

“It’s the coolest thing ever to me, how we as kids grew up into adults,”

Finn says. “We’ve worked so hard to hold that piece of paper in our hands. We have the determination to do those things, and we are capable of being smart and being the right people for the world to make the world a better place.”

Non-Surgical Sport Medicine & Concussion Specialists

FROM SIDELINES TO SUCCESS STORIES

Tom Anderson, DO | Niki Vischer, MD | Rick Morgan, MD Jeff Ebel, DO | Tammy Ng, MD | Brian Lancaster, MD | Katie Scott, PhD OCR’s dedicated team of sports medicine and concussion specialists provides advanced care for sports injuries. From personalized care plans to compassionate recovery support, our mission is to get you moving like you used to.

Schedule an Appointment Today: 970.419.7050 | www.OrthoHealth.com RMPARENT | 25

School District News: Greeley-Evans D6 The D6 Difference: Tori Heep, Tointon Academy of Pre-Engineering “The culture within my school makes me feel supported, valued, and encouraged to be myself. During my time in District 6, I have had many opportunities to grow as a person, educator, and leader. I am grateful to work in a district where I feel comfortable trying new things, taking on different opportunities, and continuing to grow professionally.

A big part of that comes from the incredible staff I work with each day, who help create such a positive and welcoming environment.”

When you think about your experience in our district, what makes you feel proud to work here?

“District 6 is a community committed to the success and growth of students.

One of my favorite parts of teaching is watching a student’s face light up when they realize how capable they are of solving hard problems and gaining confidence in themselves as learners.

I am proud to be part of a district that puts students first and is dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for every learner.”

What’s a fun fact about your job?

“For the past four years, I have taught first grade at Tointon Academy, and next year, I am excited to begin a new journey teaching fifth grade! I could not be more eager for this opportunity to continue learning and growing as an educator. In addition to teaching, I hold many other roles within our building, including being a middle school coach and an after-school program teacher.”

What is one experience with a student or staff member that left a lasting, positive impact on you?

“Some of the most meaningful moments for me are when former

26 | RMPARENT

Tori Heep Tointon Academy of Pre-Engineering 1st Grade Teacher 4 years of Service in District 6 students come back to visit, leave thoughtful notes, or stop to say hi in public. These experiences serve as a reminder of how important relationships are and how the connections we build are often the memories students carry with them forever.”

What keeps you feeling connected to and supported by our school community?

“The friends, families, and students I am surrounded by every day are what keep me feeling connected to and supported by our school community. Walking through the building each day brings me so much joy because of the people within our school. The relationships I build with students, families, and coworkers are connections that will forever hold a special place in my heart.”

RMPARENT

| 27

CONCIERGE LEVEL CARE,

Without the Concierge Level Price.

NORTHERN COLORADO’S PREMIER MEMBERSHIP-BASED PRIMARY CARE TEAM.

Covering direct primary care, regenerative medicine, and medical aesthetics.

970-818-2280 ArktosDirectCare.com JFK OFFICE

3938 John F Kennedy Pkwy, Unit 11B Fort Collins, CO 80525

BATTLECREEK OFFICE 2021 Battlecreek Dr. Unit D Fort Collins, CO 80528

Reach All of Northern Colorado

with Your Business Today!

To Advertise:

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

28 | RMPARENT

FIVE STAR SERVICE FIVE STAR RESULTS “Jeff was a rock star agent! He not only worked exceptionally hard on selling our house, but he also became a dear friend in the process. He was honest and open and offered great advice. He went above and beyond helping us. A “must have” person when selling, or buying a home in the Ft. Collins area.” - Tim H “Both myself and my wife are in our eighties. We have bought and sold 7 homes. Never in all of those sales have we had a real-estate agent as helpful and pleasant as Jeff has been. He went above and beyond what was necessary and helped us resolve problems involving our age and abilities to get things done. For this and his professionalism we are truly grateful.” - Judy & Terry H “Jeff is the BEST!! He is proactive in a not-so-great market. Jeff was very innovative with his marketing strategies. He is very smart. He helped me get my home on the market by literally moving furniture, boxes, etc. He gives great detailed feedback. He offers to help all the way through the process. He is also one of the kindest human beings. I would recommend Jeff to anyone for the greatest experience of selling your house because he cares!! If there are fivestar ratings, Jeff is an 8. He is the BEST!!” - Kathleen G

WHY CLIENTS CHOOSE JEFF

• Comprehensive Expertise: I provide solutions tailored to your unique stage of life.

• Specialized Senior Support: As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), I understand the unique needs of seniors and their families.

• Investment Strategies: I can guide you through using a self-directed IRA to invest in real estate, helping to diversify your retirement portfolio beyond the stock market.

• Business Insight: With an MBA in Marketing and decades of experience, I bring a strong foundation in strategy, negotiation, and market knowledge.

I can help you buy, sell, or invest with confidence and peace of mind.

JEFF BITTERMAN

Broker Associate/Partner MBA, SRES®, CHS 970.420.4540 jbitterman@thegroupinc.com www.jeffbitterman.com

RMPARENT

| 29

Community Calendar

THERESA BAER

July events FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS FRIDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 7 Greeley Friday Fest Free outdoor concert series, drinks with Go-Cup privileges. Bring your own chair, stay respectful, and support local businesses making it possible. 9th St Plaza, GR. greeleydowntown.com/events/ downtown-greeley-friday-fest THROUGH SEPTEMBER 5 One Sweet Summer Event Series Celebrate fun activities throughout each week with live music, kids’ days, fitness classes, ice cream festival, and more! Downtown LV. downtownloveland.org/ onesweetsummer TUESDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 15 FoCo Food Truck Rally Food trucks and free live music. City Park, FC. focofoodtruckrally.com THROUGH JULY 22 Realties for Children Back to School Collection Collecting school supplies for children in need. Various locations. realitiesforchildren.com/services/ back-to-school

30 | RMPARENT

WEDNESDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 5 Kids on the Plaza Live music and free kids’ activities including lawn games, splash pad and arts/crafts. Foundry Plaza, Downtown LV. downtownloveland. org/calendar FRIDAY, JULY 31 Kids in the Park Get outside and play! Enjoy music, games, snacks and recreation activities. Twin Silo Park, FC. facebook.com/ParksandRecFC

ENTERTAINMENT

THROUGH JULY 18 Gold Rush in Leadville Exhibit Prints reveal the romance and grit behind the rush—showing how mining, migration, and ambition shaped this storied community. Loveland Museum, LV. thelovelandmuseum.org/leadvillegold-rush THROUGH AUGUST 30 Open Weekends at Centennial Village Museum Each Saturday/Sunday features different theme with interactive activities and demos. Centennial Village Museum, GR. cityofgreeley. trumba.com

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Celebrates imagination, childhood, and one extraordinary girl’s quest for a better life. Candlelight Dinner Theatre, Johnstown. coloradocandlelight.com TUESDAYS, THROUGH JULY 28 Family Movie Series July’s line-up includes Yu-Gi-Oh: The Movie; Ice Age; Ferdinand; and Rio. Rialto Theater, LV. rialtotheatercenter.org/kidssummer-fun WEDNESDAYS, THROUGH JULY 22 Lagoon Summer Concert Series July lineup includes That Eighties Band, Rootbeer Richie, and Titonic.

Lagoon at CSU, FC. lagoonseries.com THURSDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 6 Windsor Summer Concert Series Bring your chair/blanket for live music, food trucks and family fun. Boardwalk Park, WS. recreationliveshere.com/219/ Summer-Concert-Series

THURSDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 10 Bohemian Nights: Thursday Night Live Concert Series Live music from emerging and established artists. Old Town Square, FC. bohemianlivemusic.org/ outdoor-events/thursday-night-live FRIDAY, JULY 3 Skygazing Brief, family-friendly astronomy activity followed by skygazing with telescopes from Northern Colorado Astronomical Society. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, FC. engage.fcgov.com/Calendar JULY 6 THROUGH 11 Estes Park Rooftop Rodeo Signature event features many of the World’s top rodeo contestants plus parade, mutton bustin’ and more. July 6 is Family Night. EP. rooftoprodeo.com THURSDAYS, JULY 9 THROUGH 30 Loveland Summer Concerts Free performances featuring Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,; Amanda V’s Material Girl; The Spicy Pickles; and HomeSlice Band. Foote Lagoon, LV. rialtotheatercenter.org/lovelandsummer-concerts JULY 11 AND 23 Free Days at Loveland Museum Loveland Museum, LV. thelovelandmuseum.org/ programs-events WEDNESDAY, JULY 15 Free Train Rides North Lake Park, LV. lovgov.org/ services/parks-recreation/parksfacilities/buckhorn-northern-railroad SATURDAY, JULY 18 The Okee Dokee Brothers Referred to as the “Shel Silverstein of family music,” their Americana folk celebrates the spirit of the great outdoors. The Gardens on Spring Creek, FC. lctix.com

JULY 18, JULY 25, AUGUST 8, 15, 29 Live at the Gardens Concert Series Explore winding pathways, enjoy local food trucks and live music in the evening. Dynamically priced tickets change based on demand.

The Gardens on Spring Creek, FC. lctix.com SATURDAYS, JULY 18, AUGUST 15, SEPTEMBER 19 Wellington Movie Night in the Park Series Family-friendly games then outdoor movies with Super Mario Galaxy in July. Various parks, Wellington. facebook.com/WellingtonCo1905 JULY 19, JULY 31, SEPTEMBER 4 FoCo POP (Parks & Outdoor Performances) Free music, cultural experiences and live entertainment at parks and streets across FoCo. Bring blankets/ chairs. Various parks, FC. http://fortcollins.gov/EventFolder/2026-Events/2026-Q2/ArtsCulture/FoCo-POP FRIDAY, JULY 24 Campfire at Coyote Ridge Cabin: Wolverines Two-mile round-trip easy hike with one large hill each way to enjoy campfire and stories. Coyote Ridge Natural Area, FC. engage.fcgov.com/ Calendar JULY 24 AND AUGUST 4 Windsor Movies in the Park Features The Goonies (family campout night) and Zootopia 2. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Boardwalk Park, WS. recreationliveshere.com/217/Moviesin-the-Park JULY 24 AND SEPTEMBER 16 Rock Garden Concert Series Features Trace Bundy and the Tony Furtado Trio and benefit local nonprofits. Kids 12 and under free. Fort Collins Nursery, FC. fortcollinsnursery.com/event/rockgarden-concert-series

SATURDAY, JULY 25 Raptors and Nature: Rocky Mountain Raptor Program Hike and live-bird presentation with Natural Areas and Rocky Mountain Raptor Program. Primrose Studio, FC. engage.fcgov.com/Calendar JULY 26, AUGUST 30, SEPTEMBER 27, OCTOBER 18 NoCo Cars & Coffee Car enthusiasts of all makes/models welcome. Free admission and coffee. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, LV. thepromenadeshopsat centerra.com/events

ACTIVE-ITIES

THROUGH AUGUST FREE Healthy Kids Run Series Two remaining free, family-friendly in-person one-mile fun runs and four one-mile on-your-owncourses at local parks. LV, FC, GR. healthykidsclub.org JULY 1 THROUGH 31 Scavenger Hunt at The Farm Complete activities for a chance to win prizes. The Farm at Lee Martinez Park, FC. fortcollins.gov/ Event-Folder/2026-Events/2026-Q3/ Scavenger-Hunt-at-The-Farm TUESDAY, JULY 14 Free Swim Night First 200 guests swim free! Enjoy family-friendly music, swimming, and yard games 6–8pm, Winona Outdoor Pool, LV. Lovgov.org/Swimming SATURDAY, JULY 18 Hydro Dash Kids Challenge A fun race for kids ages 6–17, start with a splash in the pool and a dash around the track. Winona Outdoor Pool, LV. LovGov.org/Webtrac keyword Hydro dash FRIDAY, JULY 24 Windsor Family Campout Fishing, paddle boats, scavenger hunt, smores, The Goonies movie, family dinner and light breakfast. Boardwalk Park, WS. recreationliveshere.com/Calendar

RMPARENT

| 31

INDEPENDENCE DAY FESTIVITIES SATURDAY, JULY 4 Estes Park The Big Bang! Concert Headliner is Face Vocal Band plus fireworks view over the lake. Estes Park Event Center, EP. bigbangconcert.com

Timnath 4th of July Celebration Fun family activities and live entertainment (6pm) and pyro-musical fireworks show (9:30pm.) Timnath Reservoir. timnath.org/4th-of-july-celebration

Fort Collins 4th of July Celebration Firecracker 5K, family-fun zone, walk-through-history, touch-a-truck, trolley rides, live music/food trucks, and fireworks (9:35pm). City Park, FC. FortCollins.gov/July4th

Wellington Fourth of July Parade (10am), festival with car show, vendors, food trucks, music and kids’ activities and fireworks (9:30pm.)

Centennial Park and Wellington Community Park, Wellington. wellingtoncolorado.gov/528/Fourth-of-July

Greeley Independence Day Parade & Fireworks Parade, various shows, free admission to Centennial Village Museum, Joe Nichols concert and fireworks (9:45pm). Island Grove Regional Park, GR. greeleystampede.org Loveland July 4th Festival Vendors, food trucks, kids’ zone, music and fireworks around 9:17pm. North Lake Park, LV. lovgov.org/july4th

32 | RMPARENT

Windsor Independence Day Activities, food trucks, vendors, and live music throughout afternoon/evening plus fireworks (9:15pm). Boardwalk Park, WS. recreationliveshere.com/216/July-4th-Activities

RMPARENT

| 33

Time out

KATIE HARRIS

Leave room for laughter in competitive sports ANY PARENT WHOSE CHILD has competed in sports knows the feeling of watching them play. The excitement, the nerves, the butterflies in your stomach when they step up to the plate, dribble down to shoot a basket or climb up on the beam.

The emotions we parents feel are only a fraction of what our kids experience as they prepare to perform in front of a crowd, hoping to hear the crack of the bat, score the winning goal or stick the landing.

Nerves and anticipation aren’t necessarily negative. In fact, channeling them into positive energy can lead to great success. It’s only when the pressure becomes too much that the consequences can be detrimental.

My oldest son has played competitive baseball since he was 8, when a club team was formed for the first time in our small town. Not knowing what we were getting ourselves into, but thinking it sounded like a good opportunity, we signed him up.

And it was fun! The boys quickly developed a camaraderie, picked up all the most popular baseball chants and reveled in each competition win.

Over the next several years, competitive ball became a way of life as we formed friendships with other families, spent holiday weekends at tournaments and cheered until our voices gave out.

Through all the excitement though, the post-game barbecues and tournament wins, something else was happening in the background.

As the boys grew up, thoughts were increasingly turning to the future. Some families began to wonder whether college baseball—or beyond—might be possible. Players attended tryouts, changed teams and added private lessons as they explored opportunities to help them reach their goals.

34 | RMPARENT

The stakes grew higher, and the atmosphere around the team began to change. Conversations that had once centered around snacks and carpools changed to playing time and game scores. The boys who had spent years growing together as teammates now found themselves competing for positions and innings as families weighed what opportunities might be best for their child.

For some athletes, those choices opened doors to new opportunities, including college recruitment and scholarships. For others, the increased commitment that came with competitive sports became difficult to balance. Pursuing bigger goals meant leaving behind friendships and the enjoyment that drew them to the game in the first place, and some kids ended up leaving the sport altogether.

As my oldest son, now a high school senior, enters his last year of youth baseball, our family is just beginning the journey again with our youngest, who started t-ball this year.

I sat in a camping chair in the middle of the outfield during our 5-year-old’s first game—something you can only do when they’re this little. Per the rules for that age group, every kid gets to hit every inning, and every kid makes it home—no outs.

I couldn’t stop smiling as the kids made their way to the plate, often forgetting their helmet or carrying

someone else’s bat—one even missing a shoe. Few remembered to touch home plate as they completed their run.

No one cared.

At the end of the game, the kids danced, cheered, attempted—and mostly missed—high fives, and laughed the entire time.

Watching them, I was reminded of a version of youth sports that can be easy to lose sight of as the years go by.

Before rankings, private lessons and conversations about the future, there was simply the joy of playing. There was the excitement of putting on that first jersey—a scratchy cotton t-shirt with a number on the back, of learning something new and being part of a team.

What struck me as I watched that t-ball game wasn’t that competition is bad or that ambition should be discouraged. It was the reminder that the things we loved most about sports in the beginning still matter—the friendships, the sportsmanship, the sense of belonging and the simple fun of being out on the field with teammates.

Sitting in that outfield chair, I was reminded that long after the scores are forgotten and the trophies collect dust, it’s the love of the game—the same love that started with those scratchy jerseys and first trips around the bases— that will endure. Competition can be rewarding, but there should always be room for laughter.

RMPARENT

| 35

36 | RMPARENT