Colorado Parent - May 2026

MAY 2026

Letting Boys Have BIG FEELINGS

The Summer Before College

The Anxiety

of Excellence

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CONT ENT S May 2026

in each issue

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THE MAMA FILES

LOCAL

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THINGS WE LOVE MOM NEXT DOOR THINGS TO DO

features

PHOTOS BY FREEPIK.COM

“BEFORE YOU ARRIVE” SUMMER PREP The acceptance letter is just the beginning, and the sumer before college is when all the prep happens.

what’s on the web

EMOTIONAL SUPPRESSION IN BOYS Over time, boys are taught that it’s not appropriate to express emotion. They mask sadness with anger, internalize shame, and have more moments of acting out.

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas: Local & Fun Gifts for Mom Mom deserves all our love, so here are some great gift ideas to celebrate her. End-of-School Traditions That Make the Last Week Special Savor the memories with these last-day-of-school ideas that will help your family remember it all. Where to See Spring Wildflowers with Kids Try these family-friendly hikes and stroller-friendly trails to enjoy the most of the colorful season. Ultimate Colorado Summer Bucket List for Families The best guide for making the most of summer with the whole family.

RECOGNIZING ANXIETY IN HIGH-ACHIEVING KIDS Today’s students are facing more pressure than ever—but the pressure stems not just from sources like parents and teachers, but from inside themself.

THE MOMS WHO LOOK FINE BUT AREN’T Despite the facade that some people really do have it all, it is important for moms to know that perfect does not exist and that if you’re doing your best, you are the best.

CONNECT WITH US

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THE Mama FILES

MEET OUR TEAM

AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor

AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN Associate Editors ART/PRODUCTION CHLOE ALLEN Production Manager KAYLA DUPREE MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers MORGAN ESPENAN Digital Content Coordinator SARAH MILLER MERCEDES MITCHELL SABRINA SMITH BREE WAY Client Success Representatives

Growing up these days really isn’t much different than when I grew up. Except now, everything is online, and there’s a digital footprint that follows you. Most of these kids don’t really understand the importance of keeping things offline. One wrong post and whatever future you had planned is gone—poof, up in smoke. Raising Teens, One Post at a Time

But maybe the bigger difference isn’t just what’s at stake—it’s the audience.

We made mistakes too—just without the audience.

JILLIAN NORMAN Production Intern

Today’s kids are growing up in front of invisible crowds, where every moment can be shared, judged, liked, or ignored. And that kind of constant exposure doesn’t just shape their choic- es—it shapes how they feel about themselves. A post that doesn’t get enough attention can feel like rejection. A comment meant as a joke can linger. And the pressure to present a perfect, curated life? That’s a heavy weight for anyone, especially a child still figuring out who they are.

ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives

CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA

And as a parent—especially one raising three teenagers—I can tell you, this phase of parent- ing is not for the faint of heart.

JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives

There’s a constant balancing act between giving them independence and wanting to protect them from a world that feels louder than it used to. You want to trust them, while quietly worrying about the choices they’ll make when you’re not around. You second-guess how much to say, when to step in, and when to let them learn the hard way.

ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships

Some days, it feels like you’re parenting in the dark—guiding them through something you never had to navigate yourself.

ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach

ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer

It’s not just about protecting their future opportunities anymore. It’s about protecting their sense of self.

LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations

Because when everything is public, it becomes harder to have private moments of growth— the kind where you mess up, learn, and move on. Without those moments, mistakes can start to feel permanent.

GAYLE GAUTHREAUX Director of Finance

ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator

So we talk. We remind. We worry a little. And we hope they learn to pause—to think—not just about what they’re posting, but how it might make them feel later.

CONTACT US EDITORIAL@FRG.INC CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD FOREST BLVD., STE. 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816

Amy L. Foreman Publisher Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues. Because growing up hasn’t changed nearly as much as the stage it happens on—and right now, that stage never really turns off. COLORADO PARENT MAGAZINE is published monthly by GEAUX PUBLISH INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in GEAUX PUBLISH INC. publications, including print and other digital formats. GEAUX PUBLISH INC does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. COLORADO PARENT MAGAZINE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

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2025

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local Meet the Internet’s Favorite Cookie Cake Mom

BY AMELIA ROESSLER

Shut up and sit down.

Bake-It-Forward effort, where she gives cakes to those who need them and posts the vid- eos online, where she gives all the proceeds from the videos to the person getting the cake. “From the very beginning, I never really felt like I deserved this many followers or this much of a following. I always hoped that I could help people who didn’t have the platform that I had because I just think that would be really cool.” For parents looking to start a business, Mother says at the end of the day, you just need to be yourself. Mother’s fun little cor- ner of the internet is not to be taken too seriously, she claims. Don’t be afraid to try something new and definitely don’t be afraid to be yourself. “My husband has been a huge support in helping me with ideas and also in support of managing the family while I have to work now.

Boolay quietly baking a cake every day while her baby napped. Somewhere in that time, she gave birth to her second child, took around 10 days off, and got back to making cakes for her community. INTERNET FAME Boolay’s videos of her side hustle quickly grew, as she filmed aesthetic videos of her piping, smoothing, and creating unique buttercream creations unlike any other cookie cakes—all while being voiced over by Mother’s beloved fiery charm. The impressive part? She did it all without showing her face. For a year, as her following grew online, no one knew who Boolay was or what her face looked like. We don’t even know if Shelby Boolay is her real name, as she has neither confirmed or denied. BAKING IT FORWARD Because of Mother’s dedication in the begin- ning of her journey, she developed carpal tunnel in her hands and wrists, which has slowed the business portion of her job down. Now to get a cake, you have to participate in a raffle. Boolay also gives cakes as part of her

That’s what you hear at the beginning of every one of Shelby Boolay’s videos. This cheeky and hilarious Fort Collins mom of two has won the love of the internet and sweet- treat seekers through her over 400 videos of cookie cake decorating. Starting in 2025, it didn’t take long for Boolay to amass over 780,000 followers across social media on her account, Mother Cookie Cake. Her colorful journey came to cookie cakes after being laid off at the end of 2024. Boolay was three-months pregnant, had just announced her pregnancy, was very excited, and then lost her job. At the time, her husband was a stay-at-home dad to their one-year-old. “I spent a lot of time just snuggling my one- year-old trying to figure out what I was going to do with my life,” says Boolay. It only took her six days to sell a cookie cake after she decided to make one, and she says the rest is history. People in her town saw her videos and placed orders, and so began

Follow Mother Cookie Cake on Instagram and TikTok @mothercookiecake.

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Things We Love Outside Fun

School’s almost out and it’s finally time to spend some quality time outside. With these fun outdoor activities, kids and parents alike are sure to be entertained and have fun while making memories in the sun.

Walkie Talkies for Kids Whether you’re out hiking, playing games, or just traversing through backyards, parks, or neighborhoods, these kids walkie talkies maintain strong signals throughout. Their three-mile range and auto-off will keep children connected safely during adventures and group games with uninterrupted communication. $28.99, amazon.com

Crayola Washable Glitter Sidewalk Chalk Want a fun way for your kids to express their creativity? Transform your sidewalk or driveway into a dazzling display of shimmer and shine with Crayola Glitter Chalk’s 24-pack of gold and silver glitter-infused sticks. $30.49, walmart.com

3 4 5

JOYIN Big Bubble Wands Set You can’t go wrong with bubbles! This set includes 18 pieces of bubble wands in various colors, shapes, and sizes; two bubble solution tray tools; and six bags of concentrated bubble solution. Perfect for fun-filled family activities. $21.99, amazon.com

Baby Shark Diamond Kite The Baby Shark Diamond Kite is the perfect kite for kids of all ages! This exciting kite is ready to fly and assembles in seconds. It includes a handle and line for easy and enjoyable flying right out of the box. $9.99, prokitesusa.com

HopeRock 3-in-1 Toys Featuring a hover soccer ball, hockey, and bowling set, this set is perfect for kids ages 3–12 who are looking for some fun outdoor activities. Just take your pick! $39.99, amazon.com

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mom next door Meet Christian Ofner

“

I think people sometimes need the validation that you’re doing enough, you’re not failing. They are alive, they are thriving. Yes, we’re all tired. Yes, we might be wearing clothes from yesterday, but we’re doing the best we can.

BY AMELIA ROESSLER

C hristian Ofner finds Colorado the to stay active: taking their dog for a walk, skiing, playing pickleball, or enjoying the mountains by fishing, hiking, and exploring. Ofner grew up in Littleton and went to college at Creighton University. Coming back to Colorado, she worked for Channel 2 and Fox 31 television stations before she switched to become a financial advisor 14 years ago. Now she lives in Denver with her husband and her nine-year-old son, Sam. perfect state to raise a child. A native herself, Ofner and her family love When it comes to parenting, Ofner knows that her challenges aren’t unique to anyone else’s parenting challenges. She jokes the biggest challenge is that no kid comes with

they would just have to work with Sam.

were like, ‘What’s wrong with him? Why can’t he sit still?’ But he’s super creative, or he’ll sit down for hours doing one task that he’s real- ly into. I think that was probably the biggest challenge thus far,” explains Ofner. As a parent, Ofner realizes that you never want to think anything is different about your child, so parents tend to hold off on asking questions, saying “Oh, because he’s a boy,” or “Oh, it’s because he’s bored.” But Ofner said she instinctively knew when they should start exploring options to help Sam. “I think parents have to trust their gut and say, maybe there is something to explore here, and exploring doesn’t mean you’re diagnosing everything,” she assures. “Exploring is just figuring out how your child likes to be communicated with or how your child likes to learn.” Once Ofner got over the barrier of knowing nothing is wrong with Sam, she felt that with some parenting style adjustments and school accommodations, everything fell into place. With a family history of ADHD, she said she knew ADHD showed differently for everyone and that

“Really, it’s just making him aware that it’s not a negative thing. There are so many more positives with it than negative. They’re super creative. They have a lot of energy, they have a lot of exuberance and enthusiasm. Those things you can definitely work with,” says Ofner. But Ofner also knows that having a family is a joy, and that has become her priority in life. She says Sam has such a sense of humor that he brightens her day when she picks him up from school. “It’s like, how can you be down in a dump when you’re around someone like that? So I feel like they kind of give you perspective on what’s really important, and that sounds a little bit cliché just coming out of my mouth, but I think that that has been the joy,” she explains. The best parenting advice Ofner has received is to realize that you don’t need to raise the smartest kid or a kid that’s the best athlete. It’s important to raise them to grow up as a good person, and that’s something Ofner

a manual. “You know, how do you troubleshoot this thing?” she asks.

While Ofner feels very fortunate that her son Sam was a wonderful baby and toddler with no terrible twos or terrible threes, about a year and a half ago, he was diag- nosed with ADHD.

“In those years from like five to seven, people

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and her husband work to instill in their son. Living in Denver, they don’t hide how the world really is for Sam—instead they try to help put into perspective for him how some things going on in the community and the world aren’t great. So Ofner and her husband take Sam with them when they volunteer or gather things to give to organizations to help people. She says it’s important to even have kids come into a grocery store to help pick out canned food and to go with to drop it off. “He volunteers with us when we do volun- teer projects. I think it’s important to instill kids early on,” explains Ofner. “I was frustrat- ed when he was five years old and all these different nonprofits had age requirements. They want to help, they want to feel impor- tant and like they’ve done something for someone else.” Ofner’s advice for other parents is to, instead of offering unsolicited advice, to just remem- ber to pat someone on the back and say, “You’re doing a good job.” “I think people sometimes need the valida- tion that you’re doing enough, you’re not failing. They are alive, they are thriving. Yes, we’re all tired. Yes, we might be wearing clothes from yesterday, but we’re doing the best we can,” she says. For parents with children with ADHD, Ofner says it’s important to go to pediatricians first and ask for resources. They look at a child’s development every year and might know when something is just a phase or some- thing that is a longer pattern that might need looking into.

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS Favorite date night …new restau- rants, or staying home watching a movie in pajamas. Words that best describe your family…. adventurous, centered, humorous, foodies. Favorite genre of movie or television show… thrillers or whodunit detective shows. Favorite food… anything my husband makes.

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“BEFORE YOU ARRIVE”

Summer Prep

BY MADELINE PISTORIUS

I t’s a monumental day in every home family and friends follow—because in just a few short months, your child will be off at their chosen university, starting a whole new journey. when a college acceptance letter arrives. Squeals, happy tears, and phone calls to

• Lofted bed add-ons: Bedside shelf, safety rail, and extra-long phone charger • Kitchen and bathroom basics: Mini fridge, microwave, electric kettle, mesh shower caddy, shower shoes • Daily comfort items: Slippers, robe, towel wrap • Cleaning made simple: Broom or Swiffer, handheld vacuum, disinfecting wipes, covered trash can SKIP WHAT THEY WON’T NEED • Bulky items like TVs, printers, vacuums, or clothing irons • Large furniture such as futons, couches, or non-foldable chairs • Too many clothes, pillows, and linens • Excess dishes, school supplies, or heavy decor

DORM ESSENTIALS TO BRING (AND WHAT TO SKIP) Packing for a dorm is all about balance— bringing what your child will actually use while avoiding clutter in a small space. Dorm rooms fill up quickly, so skip anything that won’t be used regularly. Think practical, compact, and multi-use! BRING WHAT THEY’LL ACTUALLY USE • Make sleep and downtime comfy: Mattress topper, backrest pillow or headboard, mini fan, sound machine • Keep things organized : Under-bed storage drawers, hanging shoe racks, rolling utility cart, desk hutch, compact organizers • Everyday must-haves: Air purifier, desk lamp, portable laundry bag, water filter pitcher, full-length mirror, mini safe

But that acceptance letter? It’s just the beginning.

The summer before college is when the preparation happens—figuring out what to buy, what your child will pack, how they’ll organize a small living space, and who they’ll be sharing it with. It’s a transitional season, and a little planning now can make move-in day (and everything after) feel a lot smoother.

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• Candles, fragrance plug-ins, or other fire hazards • Hot plates, toasters, and coffee machines • Duplicate items like TVs and printers should be coordinated with a roomate beforehand PLAN AHEAD • Start simple: Less is more when decorating a dorm room. A few intentional pieces— artwork, bedding, and photos—can personalize a space without overwhelming it. • Use space wisely: Bed-lofting creates space for under-bed storage like drawers, shelving, or even a small seating area. • Measure before buying: Look up dorm dimensions and plan the layout before purchasing larger items. • Check guidelines: Review school rules for restricted items like extension cords or certain appliances. • Coordinate with roommate: Decide ahead of time who will bring shared items like a fridge, rug, or storage pieces. ROOMMATE 101 Finding a roommate is one of the biggest parts of dorm living, and there’s no one “right” way to do it. • Social media connection: Many students meet roommates through Facebook or Instagram groups created for their class year. Posting a short introduction with a photo and messaging back and forth with others can help find someone with similar habits and interests. • Pre-existing relationship: Sometimes your child will room with a friend from home or a mutual connection. It’s important to still discuss routines and expectations, even with a familiar face. • Matching services: Most colleges offer housing portals to match students based on lifestyle preferences. After answering questionnaires about habits and routines, students can message potential roommates and get to know them before move-in. Approach a roommate search with an open mind and curiosity! Dorm life may mean little privacy, but it’s an invaluable experience full of late-night conversations, small compromises, and often a friendship that lasts well beyond move-out day. The summer before college comes with its own set of milestones—valuable time with family, final moments with friends, and the excitement of what’s ahead. Encourage your child to have fun with the process. Preparation matters, but so does cherishing this in-between season before the next chapter begins!

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Emotional Suppression in Boys

Importance of Teaching Language BY AMELIA ROESSLER

W e might see boys mask sadness with anger, internalize shame, and have more moments of acting out. They’re told to shake things off, don’t cry, be tough. And when the anger comes, people might say, “Oh, boys will be boys.” Dr. Alyssa Lucker, the medical director at Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center, says over time, boys are taught that it’s not appropriate to express emotion. While she says boys and girls both have the ability to express emotions, she thinks boys aren’t taught emotional vocabulary when girls are. “If boys aren’t taught that emotional vocabulary, it’s hard for them to distinguish their feelings. They don’t know what’s going on,” says Dr. Lucker. “Maybe they’re feeling

“There’s always a reason for why someone is acting, the way they’re doing it,” she explains. Without proper language, boys might express externally as irritability, shutting down, acting out, or aggression. Dr. Lucker believes emotional suppression also involves how the parents were raised. If parents don’t feel comfortable talking about emotions because they never talked about them growing up, it’s unlikely they’ll be comfortable talking about it with their kids. While Dr. Lucker says emotional suppression is seen more in boys than girls, she turns to language to see signs of emotional suppression. Through observation, parents can label what they see—say a boy getting mad and throwing toys—and acknowledge to the boy that they looked upset and ask if

frustration, or they can’t separate them out.” With no words to accurately express what they’re feeling, boys might turn to anger. Along with encompassing other emotions, anger gives a sense of protection for boys afraid to show vulnerability, Dr. Lucker explains. UNDERSTANDING WHAT’S DRIVING IT Trying to understand what is driving a tantrum, or an outburst, or aggression is the first step. Look at what came before the behavior, what the behavior was, and then what was the consequence. Maybe a child was trying to express they were hungry and didn’t have the words, but they knew that throwing a tantrum gets a parent’s attention and gets their needs met.

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they were feeling angry or embarrassed or hurt.

is aggressive, he gets the ball. Every day I notice Timmy gets the ball, so I’m going to act this way because if Timmy gets the ball, I want the ball.” A way to use social media for learning good emotional and social communication is FaceTime. She says a lot of research around FaceTime shows it being super effective for social emotional learning when kids interact with grandma, aunt, uncle, a friend of the parent. They can see their actions, their reactions, and they can hear words. While they can get that from mom and dad, they can also get through the app. WAYS TO HELP Teaching language, modeling behavior, and understanding why a child is acting the way they are is a great way to start helping boys learn to express their emotions. Responding to a feeling without endorsing the behavior is also a way to help grow language. “I can see you’re really upset. I’m not going to let you hit me, and I want to understand what happened.” To help a child learn language, especially emotional language, Dr. Lucker says it’s important to have parents mirror things such as talking about feelings or working through feelings. “It’s okay for a parent to cry in front

of a kid,” Dr. Lucker emphasizes. “If their kid sees that their parent is crying, talk about it.”

“Giving them words, and maybe it’s a ‘I don’t know what embarrass means,’ and then it’s explaining to them that it means this,” explains Dr. Lucker. Dr. Lucker says trying to do things like that are going to look differently with a two-year- old than a five-year-old, but starting to have conversations with two-year-olds who are developing the language and giving them the dialogue to help them with words is very beneficial with emotional growth. SCHOOL AND SOCIAL MEDIA Learning how to express emotions doesn’t just come from the home. School and social media can also play a role in teaching children, and boys, what’s right and wrong when it comes to expressing emotions. While not every child is exposed to the extremes of, say, toxic masculinity or heroic masculinity, social media and school can make it difficult for boys to navigate how they should be acting. Dr. Lucker gives the example of being at recess—if a peer throws a tantrum, gets angry and aggressive, but then gets the ball, it’s easy for a boy to identify, “When Timmy

Boys need to see adults handling sadness, disappointment, without shame, says Dr. Lucker. It is okay to model feelings, model emotions. She explains that you can model strength and vulnerability at the same time, and they can coexist together. If a boy is older, say elementary, middle, and high school, and a parent is still noticing patterns of irritability, disrupted relationships at home, at school, they can’t hold a friend, they’re withdrawn—that’s when Dr. Lucker says it might be time to consider going to see a therapist. A lot of times, irritability, lashing out, and anxiety can be undiagnosed ADHD as well. “Especially ADHD oftentimes really comes out in middle school because in elementary school, they’re the class clown, they’re hyper, but they can kind of get through it. But in middle school, when the academics are more demanding, that’s when really specific learning disorders are coming out, ADHD’s coming out. That’s when we’re figuring out maybe this is going on, what’s driving that avoidance, that anxiety, that irritability,” says Dr. Lucker.

FIND A SCHOOL 24/7

Search Colorado Parent ’s exclusive list of Denver’s schools anytime online. With an updated look and streamlined platform, our website is now faster, more engaging, and responsive on any device.

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Perfection or Pressure? BY JULIANNA STEEN

I was the child that never made a B from Kindergarten through grad school. I can still recall moments of pure panic after receiving a less-than-stellar grade, the deep-seated fear that I wouldn’t be perfect. Which is, in fact, a hilarious notion—because as Hannah Montana once so aptly put it, “Nobody’s perfect… Everybody makes mistakes.” Nonetheless, this desire for perfection drove my every action, both academically and personally, motivating me to achieve “success.” It wasn’t until my “perfect little plan” for my life went slightly awry that it truly began to sink in that I’m not in control and that this idea of reaching “perfection” is unattainable. Turns out, I’m not alone in this—today’s students are facing more pressure than ever. THE PRESSURE’S ON The thing about perfectionism is that the pressure stems not just from sources like parents and teachers, but from inside yourself. I was the one to put the pressure on myself and berate myself endlessly for not doing enough, not being talented or smart enough, etc. Unfortunately, this internal pressure is only rising as factors like technology and social media come into play. In a study that analyzed long-term changes in perfectionism in college students between 1989 and 2017, researchers found a 33 percent increase in the drive for perfection. This was “more than double the 10 percent increase seen in self-oriented perfectionism and the 16 percent rise in other- oriented perfectionism.”

WHY PERFECTIONISM IS HARMFUL The issue is, society condones, even

colleges, you grow up in an environment of outsized expectations,” she writes.

The pressure to stand out, the pressure to fit in, the pressure to be the best in everything you do… it’s exhausting. Don’t hear what I’m not saying: You don’t need to make your kid quit the sport they love and let them drop out of school to play video games all day—there are many benefits to recreational activities and moving your body. You should consider, however, evaluating your expectations and adjusting them where needed. REDEFINING SUCCESS Whether you’re conscious of it or not, the American dream is deeply saturated in all of us. After all, what parent doesn’t want their child to be “successful”? What parent wants their child to grow up and experience financial instability or a lack of happiness? So instinctively, you push your child to do more and be better. But here’s the kicker: Happiness and success are not one and the same. In a national study of parents in 2020, Wallace shares that 73 percent agreed that it’s a common conception that getting into a selective college is one of the most important ingredients to later-life happiness. After all, it feels good to see your child do well. In the same survey, 83 percent of parents also agreed that their child’s academic success reflected their parenting. No wonder you push for just a little more! DISCOVERING SELF-WORTH OUTSIDE OF ACHIEVEMENTS There’s this exhilarating high I’m always chasing, the feeling of being “the best.” But

encourages, perfectionism. Social media perpetuates a “perfect image” with no room for error—only the best of the best “make it” in life (and into elite colleges), so kids must scramble for resumé-builders. Additionally, “Maladaptive perfectionism can lead to sleep problems, attention issues, procrastination, exhaustion, and poor mental health,” according to an article on Psychology Today. Chronic psychological stress puts physical strain on the body, and there’s no questioning the anxiety that comes with all that pressure to perform to the highest standard. For many, the weight becomes unbearable, leading to depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and more. Perfectionism can also lead to avoidance and isolation. EXPECTATIONS CRUSH It’s okay—important, even—to have high expectations for your child, but it’s tough to determine when you’ve gone too far. In Jennifer Wallace’s book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic-and What We Can Do About It, she shares results of countless interviews with parents, as well as her own struggles regarding how to maintain healthy expectations of excellence without crushing your kids. “When you live in a community of high achievers with strict definitions of success, when friends are competing for the same leadership positions, for the same teams, for the same acceptances to increasingly exclusive

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accomplish!) Therapy can also be extremely helpful for your child to have a safe place to work through their emotions. TIPS TO OVERCOMING •Define success as your child doing their best, no matter the outcome. •Teach them to view failures as stepping stones and opportunities to grow. •Give grace to yourself and your kids. Kids don’t do what you say—they do what they see you do. •Have open, honest conversations about your mistakes (and theirs). •Affirm your love verbally and remind them their worth isn’t based on what they achieve. •Teach your kids “You matter” by spending time with them. •Explain your expectations and set reasonable goals. (Clarity is kindness.) •Step awayyy from the resumé-builders. •Limit your kids to a handful of activities so they don’t run themselves (and you!) into the ground. •Practice self-compassion. •Celebrate the little things and be quick to praise. •Comparison is the thief of joy—and social media only shows the highlight reels. Your kid may need to step away from social media in some capacity.

Me. Brown’s book poses four challenging, convicting questions about expectations you place on yourself (and your kids, I will add) that I dare you to answer: •Is this realistic? •What happens if people don’t perceive me (or my kid) this way? •Where did this expectation/perception come from? •Who benefits from this expectation? You’ll be surprised to discover so much of the pressure you put on yourself and your kids is rooted in shame that is perpetrated by billion-dollar industries. HOW TO HEAL In The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting , Brown states, “It’s actually our ability to embrace imperfection that will help us teach our children to have the courage to be authentic, the compassion to love themselves and others, and the sense of connection that gives true purpose and meaning to life.” Every kid is different, which also means that their emotional processing and perfectionist tendencies will likely be different as well. Nevertheless, there are many awesome tools out there that can help you better understand your child, from personality tests like the Enneagram and Myers-Briggs to parenting books. (But don’t turn tools into your own perfect little checklist to

you know what? It doesn’t last, and it rarely feels as satisfying as I thought it would. I had an eight month gap in between undergrad and grad school, and let me tell you: It was one of the hardest seasons of my life. For the first time ever, I couldn’t claim the label “student” that I’d proudly worn my whole life, and it rocked my world. My little achiever self didn’t know how to assess my personal worth: At best, I was a once-a-week babysitter. In the early stages of that season, I had a mentor share this profoundly simple statement that blew my mind: “God defines success differently than you do.” Whether you’re a follower of Jesus or not, basing your identity and personal value on the measure of your accomplishments will only lead to discouragement and frustration, if not burnout and depression. Moreover, if us adults are prone to it, how much more likely are our kids to base their identity on the emotional roller coaster of a good grade or final score? Manhattan Psychotherapy suggests “Instead of aiming for 100 percent perfection, strive for 70 percent excellence and let the other 30 percent go.”

EXPOSE THE ROOTS OF YOUR EXPECTATIONS

“Shame is the voice of perfection,” Brené Brown declares in I Thought It Was Just

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Moms Who Look Fine

But Aren’t BY AMANDA CIANI | PHOTO BY UNSPLASH

S crolling through social media, it doesn’t take long to find an influencer in an L&D unit with styled hair and a full face of makeup, simply sneezing out her baby. Later footage reveals the new mama being rolled out of the hospital with her new bundle of joy and what… a magically, perfectly flat stomach?! In everyday life, you may find a version of this mom wearing cute athleisure sets, jetting from this practice to the next with her kids (always managing to be on time, too!), and packing healthy snacks. She also somehow manages to show up to every class party, field trip, and volunteer for all of the school events. How does she do it?! In all honesty, it is really easy to get swept up in the hype of the perfect mom persona and feel “less than.” Despite the facade that some people really do have it all, it is so important for moms to know that perfect does not exist and that if you’re doing your best, you are the best. TOXIC COMPARISONS But do we believe we are the best? Even the most “with-it,” “perfect” mom is most likely

comparing herself to someone who she feels is somehow doing an even better job of juggling it all than her! Author of RESTLESS: How to Stop Living An If-Only Life, Kristen Mosier, LMFT, explains, “Through social media, we’re exposed to a constant stream of prompts urging us toward self-betterment, whether it’s aimed at our appearance, our health, or our parenting.” She adds, “We make comparisons based on finances, social engagements, relationship status, travel, personal qualities, physical attributes, and more.” She concludes, “There’s always a better, more correct, or more effective way to parent… we can never quite keep up.” Even those we deem “the best” are comparing themselves to someone they believe is doing it better. And those moms who appear to be high-functioning may be low on well-being! It is toxic, relentless, and tiring. THE MIRAGE Moms who project perfection do exist. We’ve all seen them. But the truth is that we are mere observers of anyone’s life that is not our own. Mosier elaborates, “Social media

puts our lives on display for the world and offers us increasingly unrealistic standards of comparison as influencers edit, filter, and curate their way to a ‘perfect’ life.” To clarify: The perfect mom you see on social media doesn’t really exist all of the time, and you are only seeing a very small percentage of that perfect neighborhood mom’s life. Just because a mom appears to have it all, doesn’t mean she really does, and furthermore, it doesn’t mean she feels like she has it all, either. That mom may be smiling during the car line and burst into tears on the drive home. She is probably down right exhausted because… aren’t we all? THE REALITY Yes, being a mom is hard (and rewarding!) work. While there are some obvious physical factors like lugging diaper bags around, getting the stroller into the back of the van, and having a child on your hip, the invisible mental load of being everyone’s go-to person for everything—and the keeper of all dates and appointments—can be even more exhausting! So while the “with-it” mom

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may appear energized, glamorous, and “Best Mom” award-worthy, try not to compare the camera-ready, tiny snippets of a 24-hour day you see with your everyday mundane. “If she appears to have it together, no one will see her as weak, needy, or ungrateful for the life she worked hard to build,” notes Mosier, “Yet, two things can be true. We can be grateful for what we have and still feel restless, overwhelmed, or even despairing at times.” The reality is that at the end of the night, being the chef, chauffeur, nurse, therapist, secretary, etc. is tiring; and when our heads hit the pillow, we still manage to make time to worry if we are doing enough to be the best mom, wife, worker, friend, etc. BREAKING THE CYCLE It takes a village, as they say, and friends become the family we choose. A support network that is also in the thick of parenthood can help forge a community in which to gain support and maybe do a little venting, too. Mosier echoes, “Having other moms to commiserate with isn’t just fun, it’s integral. It helps us normalize the extreme range of emotions so common to parenting, lets us laugh and cry about it together. And when we share our struggles, it gives other moms permission to do the same.” Realizing we are all conductors of our own little hot mess express trains is truly a thing of beauty. But sometimes the pressure to keep up can be overwhelming. With mental health awareness being commonplace, it is reassuring to know that it is okay to ask for help, too. Whether you are a mom trying to be perfect, or a mom who thinks she’s not doing enough, at the end of the day, parenting is messy for all of us, even for the moms who avoid the topic and share only the good stuff. Motherhood is full of unglamorous, unavoidable experiences that cross every divide we may possess. Consider this: If you ever feel a shred of jealousy looking at a snap of that picture-perfect family, every baby is a ticking time bomb—it only takes one little half-smile and a tiny grunt for a blown-out diaper up the back to retire a super cute outfit for good. And every toddler is one “this ketchup is too spicy” away from a tantrum. And our teenagers all find their snark during puberty. So, log off of social media for a bit, spend some time with fellow messy-moms, live your life honestly, and just know that children don’t need perfection— they just need a mom who is present, loving, and you.

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22 COLORADO PARENT MAY 2026

things to do

Our Picks MAY

1 Cinco de

Mayo Festival 36th Cinco de Mayo celebration with music, dancing, food, and festivities from May 2-3. Parade is May 2. Civic Center Park, Denver. cincodemayodenver.com

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Mike the Headless Chicken Festival

This annual festival celebrates the chicken who lived without a head for 18 months! Celebrate with a 5K, live music, art contest, chicken show, and disc golf tourney. May 29-30 Downtown Fruita, Fruita. miketheheadlesschicken.org

MJ: The Musical The multiple Tony Award-winning musical MJ is making a victorious return to Denver. MJ goes beyond Michael Jackson’s singular moves and sig- nature sound. May 14-17. Buell Theatre, Denver. denvercenter.org

Grand Old West Days

Monster Energy AMA Supercross

Relive the old ways of the West with loads of activities such as cowboy shooting, arts and crafts, carnival, beer garden, live music, and ranch rodeo. May 22-25. Moffat County Fairgrounds, Craig. grandoldwestdays.com

The Monster Energy SMX World Championship showcases the world’s elite off-road motorcycle racers as they clash in high-flying stadium battles packed with speed, skill, and intensity. May 2. Empower Field at Mile High, Denver. empowerfieldatmilehigh.com

Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information. HEADS UP!

24 COLORADO PARENT MAY 2026

Urban Market at Union Station The Urban Market is Den- ver’s premier open-air mar- ketplace, with an outdoor shopping experience that brings together an exciting mix of local artists, makers, collectors, and small busi- nesses. May 30 & 31. Union Station, Denver. coloradoevents.org

Fan Expo If you’re into comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, gaming, or cosplay, there’s something for everyone. You’ll feel out of this world – and right at home. May 28-31. Colorado Convention Center, Denver. fanexpohq.com

16th Street Summer Kickoff The free summer festival is a mile-long experience featur IFSC Speed Climbing World Cup, live music, family zones, local artists, a beer garden, and food vendors. May 31 & June 1. 16th Street Mall, Denver. summerindenver.com

Boulder Creek Festival The annual festival includes 30+ bands, dozens of food trucks, shopping from 200+ local businesses, rides, games, and a beer festival. May 22-25. Along the Boulder Creek from 9th St. to 14th St. between Canyon Blvd and Arapahoe Ave. bouldercreekfest.com

PHOTO BY BEAR BOOT PRODUCTIONS

Denver Fashion Week

A nine-day event for all things fashion. Tickets required. May 1-9. RiNo Art District, Denver. denverfashionweek.com

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Monster Energy AMA Supercross 4:30pm

The Monster Energy SMX World Championship showcases the world’s elite off-road motorcycle racers as they clash in high-flying stadium battles. Empower Field at Mile High, Denver. empowerfieldatmilehigh.com

Spring Pottery Sale 10am-4pm

Denver Arts Festival May 23-24

Shop for unique, hand-crafted pottery, created by students and staff from the City Park Pottery Studio. City Park Recreation

Center, Westminster. westminsterco.gov 3 Sunday Colorado Rockies vs. Atlanta Braves 1:10pm

Denver’s Final Derby Party 1pm-midnight Celebrate Denver’s most iconic spring celebrations with the pageantry of Derby Day to the sounds of classic yacht rock; it’s going to be a day of style, music, and unforgettable energy to send-off the event. Don’t miss the last annual event. McGregor Square, Denver. mcgregorsquare.com Firefly Handmade Spring Market 10am-4pm Watch the street transform into a vibrant, open-air market featuring a curated lineup of incredible returning favorites and talented new artists. 1000 Block of South Gaylord Street, Denver. fireflyhandmade.com

fashion, no matter your style. Tickets required for the event. May 1-9. RiNo Art District, Denver. denverfashionweek.com

1 Friday Bugs and Brews: Insect Derby! 6-8pm

This 21+ event blends the excitement of Derby Day with the incredible speed,

Join the Rockies for autograph Sunday and watch professional baseball. Coors Field, Denver. mlb.com

Fridays at the Museum All Day

strength, and survival skills of invertebrates, celebrating the tiny competitors that truly know how to race, hustle, and win. Butterfly Pavilion, Westminster. butterflies.org Colorado Dulcimer Festival Through May 2 The nonprofit, unique music festival will celebrate its 21st year with workshops during the day and public concerts at night. Saint James Presbyterian Church, Littleton. coloradodulcimerfestival.com

Experience different classes and programs aimed to keep kids busy and make things fun. Includes cooking class, early learning programming, storytime, art, outdoor exploration, and more. Children’s Museum at Marsico Campus, Denver. mychildsmuseum.org May Pay-What-You-Wish Day 10am-5pm Explore the Clyfford Still Museum for as little as one penny. Enjoy free mini-tours at 11am and 2pm. Online reservations are recommended, and walk-ins are welcome. Clyfford Still Museum, Denver. clyffordstillmuseum.org 2 Saturday Cinco de Mayo Festival Through May 3 36th Cinco de Mayo celebration with music, dancing, food, and festivities. Civic Center Park, Denver. cincodemayodenver.com Community Garage Sale Day All Day Spend the day garage sale hopping through more than 10 participating households! Highlands Ranch, Colorado. hrcaonline.org

Lafayette Farmers Market 9am-1pm

Every Sunday from May to October, over 80 local food growers, food producers, and onsite prepared foods head to Lafayette. Old Town Lafayette, Lafayette. oldtownlafayette.com Puscifer 7pm Puscifer is a band of three creative confidants who fuse music, performance, and visual art into a singular experience. Red Rocks Ampitheatre, Morrison redrocksonline.com

Come From Away Through May 10

Glowing Wild Through May 10 Glowing Wild is filled with

Based on a true story, Come From Away chronicles how the isolated town of Gander, Newfoundland played host to the world during September 11, 2001. Arvada Center, Arvada. arvadacenter.org Denver Fashion Week Through May 9 A nine-day event for all things

interactive surprises that are sure to dazzle kids and adults alike. Each radiant scene is inspired by habitats from across the globe, while motion-activated lanterns bring the experience to life. Denver Zoo, Denver. denverzoo.org

Puzzle Social 3-5:30pm

Every first Sunday of the month, join fellow jigsaw puzzlers for casual puzzling and exchanging puzzles. Relish Food Hall, Louisville. bocopuzzlers.org Spring Rumage Sale 9:30am-2pm Time for the spring Rumage sale. Bring your tiki or mid century modern items to sell or look for

Harvey Park Farmers Market 9am-1pm

Head over for the inaugural Harvey Park Farmers Market and grocery shop for the whole family. Every Saturday from May through October. Harvey Park, Denver. harveyparkfarmersmarket.com

treasures.Ballmer Peak Distillery, Lakewood. facebook.com

26 COLORADO PARENT MAY 2026 VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

STEAM to the Max! 3:30-4:15pm

Wednesday nights. Arvada Community Garden, Arvada. meetup.com/acg-garden-classes Music & Movement 9:30am Support early learning and development with music, stories, movement and dancing in multiple languages, followed by time for kids and caregivers to socialize and play.

running “buy-sell-trade” event of its kind in Colorado history. Find new, used, handcrafted, and collectible guitars along with amplifiers, pedal effects, PA gear,

4 Monday Colorado Rockies vs. New York Mets 6:40pm Watch professional baseball. Coors Field, Denver. mlb.com

Go to WOW! after school and take part in STEAM activities! Recurring program on Thursday afternoons, recommended for grades K-3. WOW! Children’s Museum, Lafayette. wowchildrensmuseum.org

and more. Legacy Campus, Lone Tree. guitarshowmagazine.com

Family Storytime 10:30am

Coloardo Rapids vs. St. Louis City 7:30pm

8 Friday Brian Posehn 7 and 9:15pm

Stories, songs, rhymes, and fun designed for toddlers and active walkers through preschool age. Lafayette Public Library, Lafayette. lafayettepubliclibrary.libcal.com Wings Aerospace Exploration Parent Family Info Night 6-7:30pm Learn about the Wings Aerospace Exploration and Wings Aerospace Exploration Enrichment programs for students in grades 6-12. Meet educators, instructors, and students, and get your questions answered. Exploration of

Broomfield Library and Auditorium, Broomfield. compass.broomfield.org 7 Thursday Coffee Talk 8-9am

Watch professional soccer. Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, Commerce City. coloradorapids.com Dance Together 10:15am Dance Together is an engaging and fun toddler dance class designed for children between the ages of 1-2 years, where they participate alongside a parent or guardian. Colorado Movement Lab, Westmninster. comovelab.com

In stand-up comedy, Brian’s known as one of the original members of the Comedians of Comedy. He’s recorded two half hour specials for Comedy Central, four comedy albums and

Start your morning with a quick coffee, conversation, and some informal networking. Scott’s Roofing, Lafayette. business.lafayettecolorado.com

three hour long specials. Comedy Works, Denver. comedyworks.com

Disney’s 101 Dalmations KIDS Through May 16 Performed by K-4th grade actors, this fun and energetic production is packed with catchy songs, colorful characters, and plenty of puppy mischief. Joyful Light Youth Theater, Englewood. joyfullighttheater.org 9 Saturday Binturong BearCat Day All day Learn all about this peculiar and unique animal and meet the Aquarium’s very own Binturong,

Paper Fashion Show 5:30-8:30pm The nation’s largest paper

History Colorado Center Low Sensory Morning 8-10am

Flight, Englewood. wingsmuseum.org

fashion show returns to Denver. Produced by The One Club for Creativity Denver, the event transforms donated paper into bold fashion. Stockyards Event Center, Denver. denver.oneclub.org Read to a Dog 3:45pm Students in K-5th Grade can build confidence and fluency in their abilities by reading aloud to trained therapy dogs. Bring your own book or choose a library book and the dogs will listen without correcting or judging. Broomfield Library and

The History Colorado Center is happy to open its doors for families and self-advocates who prefer a lower sensory museum. The museum will be closed to the general public, attendance limited, and sounds in the exhibits turned down. History Colorado Center, Denver. historycolorado.org

5 Tuesday Baby Storytime 10:30am Babies birth-24 months and caregivers are welcome to share songs, rhymes, books and bounces. Lafayette Public Library, Lafayette. lafayettepubliclibrary.libcal.com David Guetta 8pm David Guetta will be live at Red Rocks. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison. redrocksonline.com

Yuni. Downtown Aquarium, Denver. aquariumrestaurants.com

Mother’s Day 5K 9am The Mother’s Day 5k is a

Colorado Guitar Show and Custom Luthier Expo 10am-4pm The guitar show is the longest-

family-friendly race suitable for participants of all levels. Families and friends are welcome to

Auditorium, Broomfield. compass.broomfield.org

Strolling Stories at Chatfield Farms: Buds, Blossoms and Blooms 9:30-10:15am

Celebrate National Wildflower Week and explore the beautiful colors and shapes of flowers growing along the trail. Combines story time and nature hikes. Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, Denver. botanicgardens.org 6 Wednesday Free Garden Class 6pm Free garden class on most

Paper Fashion Show May 7

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