Colorado Parent - February 2026

February 2026

FEBRUARY 2026

When First Love Hurts

Inside Local Preschools

Your Early

FEBRUARY 2026 COLORADOPARENT.COM 1 Learning Guide

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CONT ENT S February 2026 features 14 INSIDE LOCAL PRESCHOOLS

16 EARLY EDUCATION LISTING Guide to the local early education centers near you. Choosing a preschool is one of the first big educational decisions families make, and it can come with just as many questions as excitement.

20 TEEN HEARTBREAK

Breakups hurt at any age, but teen heartbreak hits differently. For adolescents experiencing their first serious relationship loss, emotions can feel intense, all-consuming, and impossible to shake.

21 OUR TOP PICKS OF FEBRAURY Find out what we thought was the top ten events happening in February.

in each issue

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THE MAMA FILES

LOCAL

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THINGS WE LOVE MOM NEXT DOOR THINGS TO DO

what’s on the web Kid-Approved Valentine’s Activities Valentine’s Day with kids doesn’t have to mean sugar overload or last-minute stress. These kid-approved activities keep the focus on fun, creativity, and togetherness. Celebrating the Super Bowl in Style It’s a win with these gameday ready recipes. Valentine’s Alternatives Not a fan of Valentine’s Day? Too busy to take the time to celebrate? Here are some alternative ideas that are just as fun. Black History Month Events You Don’t Want to Miss Here are the best places and events to celebrate Black History Month.

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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 Client Success Manager SABRINA SMITH BREE WAY Client Success Specialist JILLIAN NORMAN Production Intern ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT

Firsts & Lasts When you’re in the thick of parenting, you don’t always realize what’s happening around you. Most days, you’re just trying to survive until the next one — preferably with everyone fed and at least somewhat cooperative. I knew becoming a mom would be hard work, but no matter how prepared you think you are, parenting has a way of humbling you. Looking back now, I wish I could travel back 16 years and gently remind myself to slow down. To sit and have the tea party, even when the to-do list felt endless. To go to the zoo more, even if it meant loading everyone up and questioning my life choices halfway there. To say yes a little more often and make the memories while they were right in front of me. I’m probably my own harshest critic when it comes to the moments I feel I missed.

ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives

ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships

Life, though, is full of firsts and lasts — often happening whether we’re ready or not.

Every year brings new ones to our house. This year includes a high school graduation — a last day of school — and a first day of college. A brand-new chapter. We’re also deep in the teenage years, and by the start of the next school year, I’ll lose a driver in the house, which means more carpools… but also a lot more quiet reflection. As you navigate your own journey of firsts and lasts, remember this: Even if you missed some moments, you did not miss the love. Our children don’t need perfection — they need our presence. And it’s okay for them to see that we’re human, still learning, and doing our best — especially since keeping up with teenage lingo feels like a never-ending job. Is it “slay”? Is it “mid”? And when did “bet” stop meaning what I thought it meant?

ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach

ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations GAYLE GAUTHREAUX Director of Accounting ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator

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

We may not catch every first or last — but we catch enough.

Happy February,

Amy L. Foreman Publisher Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues. 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.

2025

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local

Turning Moments Into

Memories I n 2016, Vanessa King and her husband packed up their life in Orange County, New York and moved to Colorado on a whim; a decision she now calls the best they’ve ever made. Vanessa settled in Littleton, where her creative business, EventsByHer, finally began to flourish. She works full time for a Fortune 500 company, and the flexibility of her role there allowed her to relocate and start a new adventure here in Denver. “My daily job is very analytical,”Vanessa explains. “It’s numbers-driven. It’s deadlines and making sure everything is correct. My passion and my business is where I can drive all my creativity. I can use bright colors. I can do different themes, and that’s why I like it.” While many people associate events with planning, EventsByHer specializes in event installations. Balloons, backdrops, décor, and centerpieces are where Vanessa thrives, transforming spaces into vibrant, memory- making moments. Her love for events began in high school, when a business class assignment required her to write a business plan. She chose event planning, unknowingly planting the seed for what would later become her business. At the time, Vanessa admits she was focused on getting into college and building a stable career, unsure of where that early passion might lead. EventsByHer officially began in New York, where Vanessa decorated parties for friends simply because she loved doing it. The biggest challenge, she says, was stepping outside her comfort zone to work with clients beyond her inner circle. That changed after her move to Colorado. “When I made the jump to Colorado, I saw the potential,” she says. ”Being in a small town, you don’t get those opportunities as much as living closer to or in a big city.” BY AMELIA ROESSLER

In 2019, Vanessa and her husband had their daughter. The following year, she threw her daughter a first birthday party—despite limited attendance due to COVID, she made sure it felt special. That moment reignited something she hadn’t realized she had put on hold. “I kind of forgot that passion was there,” she says. “When I had to throw a party for someone I loved so deeply, I realized this passion is still there.” After the pandemic, Vanessa decided to fully commit. In 2023, she hit the ground running, marketing her business across social media and building a growing client base across Colorado. “I love turning moments into memories,” she says. “What drives me to do this all the time is going and decorating for Colorado families and seeing the joy. I love to bring joy to those special moments. It deserves to be enjoyed.” Balancing a full-time career, a growing business, and motherhood hasn’t been without challenges. Eventually, Vanessa stepped back from social media to protect her mental health.

“Something had to give,” she explains. “I felt like I wasn’t giving my all to every place that it needed to be.” Now, she’s refreshed, back online, and ready to put herself out there again. Staying organized, she says, is essential to juggling parenting and running a business. Keeping a detailed calendar, communicating with her husband, and trusting their support system helps everything run smoothly. This year, Vanessa hopes to strengthen her social media presence, connect more face- to-face with clients, and continue expanding her work. While birthday parties make up a large portion of her business, she especially enjoys corporate events, bringing joy and creativity into spaces that might otherwise feel mundane. “I truly enjoy what I do,” she says. “The parents of Colorado are the ones who helped me achieve my goals. I am nothing but thankful to the people of Colorado for allowing me to do it.” EventsByHer can be found via Instagram @eventsbyher_co or via email at at eventsbyherco@gmail.com.

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Things We Love February is the month of love! From cozy decorations to fun accessories, here are the finds that add little Valentine reminders that love is all around. All About Love

Multicolor Wool Stemmed Hearts Bouquet Show some love with the plush hearts bouquet crafted of wool in five sweet colors. Each hand-stitched heart sits atop a metal stem wrapped in green cotton thread that you can display together in a glass vase or include with floral arrangements. $14.99, worldmarket.com

Weighted Emotional Support Hug Buddy Snuggles, warmth, and comfort—all wrapped up in the cutest plush pals. These weighted, microwaveable hug buddies are designed to give little ones (and big ones!) the calming, grounding sensation of a cozy embrace. $42, uncommongoods.com

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Toddler Valentine’s Day Heart Sweater

Stanley Tumbler It’s love at first sip with this 30 oz stainless steel flowstate quencher Stanley tumbler. The sweetest hearts shine in shades of pinks, frosted whites, and deep reds. $40, target.com

Heart Shaped Ramekin Set Heart-shaped pink ramekins crafted from stoneware and heat evenly, making them perfect for baking bite- sized treats or serving dips or snacks. $16.17, amazon.com

Celebrate your little one in a cozy, festive style with this sweater, designed to keep them warm and comfortable all day long. $12.98, walmart.com

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There are many effective ways to reduce stuttering. Doing nothing is not one of them.

www.StutteringHelp.org THE S TUTTERING F OUNDATION A Nonprofit Organization Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter ®

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mom next door Meet Adriana Bouffard

A driana Bouffard is a 27-year-old stay- at-home mom. She is raising two autistic toddlers – Izabella, 4, and Ezra, 2 – with her husband David. They cur- rently live in the Virginia Village and Glendale area of Colorado. As a parent, Adriana knows the challenges of raising kids. She says she had to learn to advocate for her kids, and that having other parents or adults judge her parenting was hard to witness. Being a par- ent with autistic children, Adriana says she feels like children with autism get overlooked or that her family doesn’t get taken seriously. “People with autism have the purest hearts and always want to make others happy,” she explains. Doing what makes you and your family happy despite getting judged or receiving weird looks was the best piece of parenting advice Adriana says she ever received. “The biggest joy has been the unconditional love our children give, hearing their first words even if it took three plus years, and always having your built-in best friends,” Adriana says. Her biggest piece of advice is similar to the one she received – Do what makes your children and yourself happy. A lot of people are going to give you unsolicited advice and judge you, but I promise you that your child will think you’re the coolest parent ever... even if it comes with rules. As for family traditions, Adriana says they are excited for when they are able to start cooking Thanksgiving dinner all together. “My husband and I have made dinner every year since we got together,” she says. Adriana recently got into baking and decorating cakes for friends and family on their birth- days. As a family, they love going to the museum and going fishing. Being in Colorado, Adriana says her favorite thing about raising kids in this state is the ability to explore the wonders of Colorado. She adds she has met a lot of amazing ther- apists (SLPs/SLPAs, OTs, and PTs) that have made her family feel welcomed and safe. “Many states don’t have as many resources for autism support,” she says.

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Rapid Fire Questions Favorite date night… going to the Nature and Science Museum and grabbing a bite afterwards. Words that describe your family… inclusive, kind, and outgoing. Favorite genre of movie or television shows… comedy movies or watching cartoons like Blues Clues or Spidey and his amazing friends with the kids. Favorite food… our entire family loves Chinese and Indian food. It’s definitely our comfort food.

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Inside Local Preschools

BY AMELIA ROESSLER C hoosing a preschool is one of the first big educational decisions families make, and it can come with just as many questions as excitement. From teaching philosophies to classroom routines and social-emotional growth, parents want to know what really happens once the school day begins. To help, Colorado Parent Magazine sat down with local preschool leaders to ask the questions families care most about.

throughout their tenure at BCD and beyond.

Boulder Country Day School

What does a typical day look like for a child in your program? Boulder Country Day successfully balances social-emotional and academic learning. Our schedules are routine and predictable, rotating between active and quiet learning blocks. We encourage exploration and inquisitiveness, and our teachers intentionally plan learning experiences for math, science, art, literature, and the development of gross and fine motor skills. We also integrate a monthly DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) curriculum to support growth in empathy and global awareness. BCD preschoolers benefit from daily “specials,” including art, library, movement, innovation lab, world language, and music. Additionally, children enjoy scheduled “buddy time” with teachers to foster genuine, authentic relationships and a positive classroom culture. How would you describe your educational philosophy for preschool-age children? Research shows that early learning is most successful when presented through play. BCD’s Preschool is an intentional, play-based program that utilizes a gentle, nurturing, and engaging environment to facilitate growth. We use positive discipline to help children develop the skills they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.

How do you support children with different learning styles or developmental needs? BCD is fortunate to have a dedicated

Learning Center. Students’ social, emotional, and academic goals are supported by a team that includes both classroom teachers and Learning Center professionals. Every child is observed and assessed through playful scenarios. These insights allow teachers to create experiences that support children at all developmental levels. In the event that a teacher identifies a specific learning need, our Learning Center specialists perform additional observations to determine the best support strategies to ensure the child’s success. Information regarding a child’s strengths and tools for success follows them throughout their entire career at BCD. How do you help children prepare for the transition to kindergarten? BCD preschoolers are well-prepared for Kindergarten. Academically, they typically exceed beginning levels in reading, numeracy, and writing. More importantly, they learn how to self-advocate, problem- solve, care for their own needs, and balance their own rights with the needs of others. Are there 1-3 events you have every year that families and children look forward to? The Fall Festival, Celebration of Cultures, Preschool Olympics, and the Preschool Sweethearts Dance.

How do teachers partner with parents throughout the years?

Our teachers partner with parents with an emphasis on communication and community building. At the start of each year, we schedule “Hopes and Dreams” conferences, where parents share their child’s specific goals and challenges. These meetings also allow us to learn about each family’s culture, which we use to honor unique customs and traditions within our curriculum. Throughout the year, BCD holds formal parent-teacher conferences, with additional meetings available upon request. Because of our tight-knit environment, teachers from Preschool through 8th grade develop lasting bonds with families that continue

Little Sunshine’s Playhouse

What does a typical day look like for a child in your program? The daily routines in our classrooms vary based on age and developmental needs. In our infant and young toddler classrooms, we spend a significant amount of time on the floor, singing songs, reading books, and exploring new materials based on daily lesson plans, all while engaging in essential caregiving routines, such as diaper changes,

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bottle feedings, mealtimes, and naptimes. We also love taking our little ones outside for fresh air and outdoor exploration. As children grow older, you’ll notice greater structure in the classroom, including story time, morning gatherings, small-group activities, daily lessons, and artistic experiences designed to nurture the whole child.

emphasizes whole-child growth and development, establishing a well-rounded daily routine that supports all aspects of children’s overall development. We focus on scaffolding learning throughout the preschool and pre-K years, covering essential kindergarten readiness skills to ensure children are well-equipped for their next steps. Additionally, we prioritize social-emotional learning, guiding children as they navigate important social interactions with peers and adults. This foundation helps them build confidence and fosters positive relationships. Are there 1-3 events you have every year that families and children look forward to? We love coming together as a school community to celebrate! A few of our favorite events include the annual Back-to-School Bash, the Winter/Holiday performances, and each of our schools’ birthdays. We also invite families throughout the year to highlight learning through art shows, classroom performances, and meaningful small gatherings at each location.

our school.

How would you describe your educational philosophy for preschool-age children? Our school philosophy incorporates a unique blend of Montessori and Reggio philosophy. We support children in being independent by supporting them in caring for themselves and the world around them, cultivating a sense of curiosity and competence, along with helping them in learning how to advocate in order to have their needs met with peers and adults. We see early childhood education as a living, relational ecology rather than merely an applied methodology. We trust children as whole beings, capable of meaning-making, inquiry and deep concentration.

How do teachers partner with parents throughout the years?

As a Reggio-inspired school, community engagement is highly valued. We love connecting with parents during drop-off and pick-up times and maintain an open-door policy for ongoing meetings and discussions about their child’s growth and development. Our school uses an app-based program called LuvNotes to provide real-time updates and photos, keeping parents informed about their child’s day. We invite parents to join us monthly for “Family First Fridays,” providing families with the opportunity to explore the learning taking place in our school and engage hands-on with their children in our classrooms. Additionally, we host parent conferences twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring, to foster deeper conversations about child development.We also welcome family members into the classroom when they have special skills or knowledge to share with the children. For example, many family members have recently showcased their musical talents during our music and movement unit of study.

How do you support children with different learning styles or developmental needs?

We support different learning styles and developmental needs by designing learning environments that offer various points of entry and by remaining in close relationship with each child. Instead of sorting children by strengths or deficits, we trust that children reveal what they need through their lived experience, play, questions, and resistance. We provide open-ended materials, varied rhythms, and flexible pathways so children can approach learning through movement, creative and spoken language, construction, solitude, collaboration, repetition, and/ or imagination. We observe, document, and adjust the environment. By honoring autonomy alongside connection we create conditions where differences are welcomed as essential to the life of the classroom.

Children’s Garden Montessori

What does a typical day look like for a child in your program?

Children’s Garden serves as a school and community of young children more so than a childcare program and our schedule reflects this. Depending on age, our Pre- School age children attend for 3 hours to 6 ½ hours a day. After greetings and a short circle time, child’s day at school is a flow of individualized activities, small and large group projects, using the indoor and outdoor spaces as learning and playing environments, and where the children have a good amount of autonomy in selecting their activities. Our schedules reflect a child’s need for structure and unstructured time, connections, rest and down time. How do teachers partner with parents throughout the years? Before a child ever walks into the classroom, the teachers work to partner with the parents to understand who that child is and how to support their development. Starting with a Home Visit, we mindfully set up opportunities for parents and teachers to come together to form a strong relationship that allows for a meeting of the minds around supporting young learners on their first educational journey. We recognize parents as the child’s first teachers, and approach education as a collaboration. Our ongoing documentation and community programs serve to include parents and caregivers in the daily life of our school and to invite families into an ongoing and aware dialog throughout a child’s time at

How do you support children with different learning styles or developmental needs?

How do you help children prepare for the transition to kindergarten?

FEBRUARY 2026 COLORADOPARENT.COM 15 For a complete list of responses, go to the Colorado Parent website. A Montessori statement says it best, “We serve the future by protecting the present. The more fully the needs of one period are met, the greater will be the success of the next.” Cultivating an intrinsic love of learning and curiosity, an “I can” attitude, resilience, creativity, concentration; laying a broad and strong foundation across the developmental and educational domains. Are there 1-3 events you have every year that families and children look forward to? Annual Cultural Festival of experiences related to cultural and seasonal traditions across the world; Spring Art Show and Exhibit celebrating the creative and imaginative research and work of the children through the school year; and the End of school year Bunny Run and Picnic.

At Little Sunshine Playhouse, we utilize our own curriculum framework called “Creatively Shine.” This framework emphasizes whole-child growth and development, accommodating various learning styles and developmental needs within each classroom. Our educators collaboratively construct invitations and provocations daily based on children’s interests and needs. We also complete developmental checklists and curate individual child portfolios. These resources guide learning and provide a comprehensive view of each child’s strengths and areas needing additional focus to support their ongoing growth and development.

How do you help children prepare for the transition to kindergarten? We have several systems in place to

effectively prepare children for the transition to kindergarten. Our curriculum framework

Early Education LISTING

Aspen Ridge Preparatory School 705 Austin Avenue, Erie (720) 242-6225 aspenridgeprepschool.org Ages Accepted: 3-4 years Fee Range: $2,700-4,259 Ratio: 1:16 Boulder Country Day School 4820 Nautilus Court North, Boulder (303) 527-4931 bouldercountryday.org Ages Accepted: 2.5-13 years Fee Range: $23,725-29,435 Ratio: 2:12-16 Boulder Valley Waldorf School 6500 Dry Creek Parkway, Niwot

Primrose Schools Multiple locations (303) 322-7200 primroseschools.com Ages Accepted: 1-5 years Fee Range: Varies by location Ratio: Varies by location The Nest School 450 Dad Clark Drive, Highlands Ranch (833) 563-1835 thenestschool.com Ages Accepted: 6 weeks-PreK Fee Range: Varies by age Ratio: Varies by age New Horizon Academy Multiple locations: 21600 East Quincy Avenue, Aurora | (303) 862-4294 555 Zang Street, Broomfield | (720) 966-2345 10472 East, Easter Avenue, Centennial | (720) 502-6192 9200 East, 40th Avenue, Denver | (720) 547-7476 2140 Village Vista Drive, Erie | (720) 600-0900 9092 Sky Ridge Avenue, Lone Tree | (720) 640-9142 12188 Sliceroo Drive, Parker | (303) 955-6243 13802 Colorado Boulevard, Thornton | (720) 336-7934 newhorizonacademy.net Ages Accepted: 6 weeks-PreK Fee Range: $200-500 Ratio: 1:5-12 Sunshine House Early Learning Academy Multiple locations (864) 990-1820 sunshinehouse.com Ages Accepted: 6 weeks-12 years Fee Range: Varies by age Ratio: Varies by age

Ages Accepted: 0-5 years Fee Range: N/A Ratio: N/A

Fee Range: $1,462-1,952 Ratio: Varies by age Little People’s Landing Multiple locations (303) 972-0787

Family Star Montessori 2246 Federal Boulevard, Denver (303) 477-7827 familystar.net Ages Accepted: 2 months-6 years Fee Range: $1,957-2,781 Ratio: 1:4 infant/toddler, 1:10 PreK

littlepeopleslanding.com Ages Accepted: 6 weeks-12 Fee Range: Varies by age Ratio: Varies by age Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool Multiple locations (720) 307-5394 littlesunshine.com Ages Accepted: 6 weeks-6 years Fee Range: $935-1,495 Ratio: Varies by age Merryhill School 8502 Park Meadows Drive, Lone Tree (844) 967-4361 merryhillschool.com Ages Accepted: 6 weeks-5 years Fee Range: N/A Ratio: N/A

The Gardner School Multiple locations:

1000 Colorado Boulevard, Denver | (720) 292-1750 8858 East 46th Avenue, Denver | (720) 994-8907 5580 South Park Place, Greenwood Village | (720) 672-9980 thegardnerschool.com

(303) 652-0130 bvwaldorf.org

Ages Accepted: 2.5-14 years Fee Range: $6,300-19,800 Ratio: 1:7 Children’s Learning Center 2817 Zenobia Street, Denver (303) 455-4865 dclc.co Ages Accepted: 3 months-4 years Fee Range: N/A Ratio: N/A

Ages Accepted: 6 weeks-5 years Fee Range: Varies by location Ratio: Varies by location

The Goddard School Multiple locations (303) 722-2236 goddardschool.com

Mountain Shadows International Montessori School 4154 63rd Street, Boulder (303) 530-5353 mountainshadows.org Ages Accepted: 12 months-6th grade Fee Range: $1,600-2,395 Ratio: 1:5-10

Ages Accepted: 6 weeks-5 years Fee Range: Varies by location Ratio: Varies by location International School of Denver 7701 East 1st Place, Unit C, Denver (303) 340-3647 isdenver.org Ages Accepted: PreK-9th grade Fee Range: $26,000-29,000 Ratio: 1:7 Iliff Preschool & Kindergarten 4140 East Iliff Avenue, Denver (303) 757-3552 iliffpreschool.com Ages Accepted: 1-6 years

Children’s Garden Montessori School 444 Detroit Street, Denver (303) 322-0972 cgmontessori.com Ages Accepted: 18 months-6 years Fee Range: Varies by age Ratio: N/A Clayton Early Learning 3751 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Denver (303) 355-4411 claytonearlylearning.org

Montessori Academy of Colorado 2500 Curtis Street, Denver (303) 623-2609 montessoriacademy ofcolorado.org Ages Accepted: 8 weeks-grade 8 Fee Range: $23,800-34,000 Ratio: 1:5

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EARLY EDUCATION PROFILES

Choosing an early learning center is a meaningful decision for families with young children. In this section, we take a closer look at select local learning centers, highlighting what makes each one unique, from educational approach and classroom environment to community values and care philosophy. These profiles are designed to help families explore their options and find a program that feels like the right fit.

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From Hearbreak to Growth B reakups hurt at any age, but teen heartbreak hits differently. For adolescents experiencing their first rational thinking to process emotions. Paired with the fact that parents tend to have more experiences with heartbreak and romantic only show the good parts of life, and when teens compare their experience with others, they can feel like they are wrong for being heartbroken.” BY AMANDA MILLER

serious relationship loss, emotions can feel intense, all-consuming, and impossible to shake. There’s a reason for that. Marti Burton, MA, ALC, NCC, EMDR-T, and therapist at Empower Counseling & Coaching shares the two main reasons why romantic breakups tend to hit teens so hard emotionally: brain development and the impact of first experiences. Burton explains, “In the teenage years, the emotional part of our brain tends to be a little more active, and without a fully developed prefrontal cortex, teens have a difficult time thinking rationally about their experience. Teens also tend to not have much experience with romantic relationships and breakups, so they don’t have much context to base their experiences on.” That intensity is exactly why teens need time—and support—to grieve before they can grow. RESIST THE URGE TO FIX Parents often encourage their teen to get back out there, hoping a quick reset will ease the pain. After all, that’s their child, and watching someone break their heart is incredibly hard. While the instinct is understandable, experts say rushing the healing process can do more harm than good. Burton shares, “One pattern that I notice when working with parents supporting their teen through heartbreak is looking at the situation from their fully developed lens. Parents have a fully developed brain, so they typically have an easier time using their

relationships, it can be harder to see and understand exactly what their child is going through from their lens.” So what can parents do? First, they should recognize that how they would respond to the situation isn’t always the same way their teen would respond. Second, they need to meet their teen where they are and ask more open-ended questions. “One of the most helpful things a parent can do after learning about a breakup is to be curious about their teens’ experience. I often see well meaning parents trying to immediately fix the situation or want to make their kids happy. Instead of automatically going into fix mode, asking questions and being open to what their teens share with them can help teens process and understand their experience, while also fostering a safe environment to share uncomfortable things,” says Burton.

Encouraging a break from social media, including muting or unfollowing certain accounts, can help teens heal. WHEN EXTRA SUPPORT IS NEEDED While sadness, anger, and stress are normal reactions to breakups, parents should pay attention to bigger shifts in their teen’s behavior. “If you notice prolonged periods of sadness, social isolation, changes in grades, increased negative self-thoughts, or any other major changes in typical behavior, therapy could be a good next step,” explains Burton. GROWING ALONG THE WAY With the right support, heartbreak can become more than just something to endure. Teens who are supported through these difficult emotions can actually gain lifelong skills. “Teens can learn skills and how to better support others (i.e. friends, family) during heartbreak or other similar emotional experiences. Teens can also learn how to identify uncomfortable emotions and implement coping strategies that can help in future situations. Also, experiencing difficult emotions can help teens realize that emotions are not scary, and that they don’t have to last forever,” says Burton. Parents don’t have to fix the heartbreak or fast-forward the healing process. By listening, staying in tune with their teen, and offering support, they can help their broken-hearted teen grieve, and ultimately, grow stronger.

What’s in: How was today for you? What’s out: Do you feel sad today?

THE SOCIAL MEDIA FACTOR A factor that can throw a wrench in the bounce-back process is social media. Healing from heartbreak is harder when the reminders are constant. Burton explains, “Social media keeps us constantly connected to others. When we are consistently connected to our ex relationships, or other people associated with our exes, it can prolong our emotional experience, make teens feel like they aren’t good enough, increase feelings of loneliness, and/or distort reality. Social media tends to

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things to do

Our Picks FEBRUARY

1 Lovleand

Sweetheart Festival

Bring the family or your sweet- heart for free fun in the Sweet- heart City, including a day full of live ice sculpting, fire and art demonstrations, musical and dance performances on the community stage and the Little Miss Valentine & Little Mister Cupid Contest. On February 14, from 10am-8pm in Loveland. visitloveland.com

PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS

FEBRUARY 2026 COLORADOPARENT.COM 21

Dirty Dancing in Concert Watch the digitally remas- tered film in full on a mas- sive screen while a live band and singers perform every unforgettable song from the original soundtrack, syncing with each moment of the movie. On February 4 at 7:30pm at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Denver. artscomplex.com

Midwinter Bluegrass Festival This indoor pickers’ festival cele- brates its 40th year on February 15 with a stellar lineup, instrument workshops, the Rocky Mountain Band Scramble, Bluegrass Karaoke with a live band, a vendor market, and jamming all over the hotel. Delta Hotel by Marriott, North- glenn. midwinterbluegrass.com

Winter Carnival Through February 4-7, this unique event includes everything from kids pulled on skis behind horses down a snow-covered main street, to the Lighted Man at the Night Show Extravaganza whose battery-powered suit weighs 70 pounds. Steamboat Springs. steamboatchamber.com

PHOTO BY

Chinese New Year Festival The 2026 Lunar New Year Festival continues to be a popular cultural event in Colorado Springs with the traditional lion dance, Asian Aerial Acrobats, Taiko drummers, Asian ribbon & fan dances, unique Chinese musical instrument performances, the Dragon Dance, an Asian contortionist, and more. On February 7, at the Ent Center for the Arts, Colorado Springs. cscci.org/CNYF

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

22 COLORADO PARENT FEBRUARY 2026

PHOTO BY HYLAND HILLS PARKS & RECREATION

Princess Ball All ages are welcome for an enchanting evening at the Princess Ball on February 13. Tickets include dancing, activities, crafts, desserts, and refreshments. Cotton- wood Lodge at Hyland Hills, Westminster. hylandhills.org

Free Day at Denver Art Museum Engage with art, experience onsite activities, and explore the art on view all while enjoying free general admission on February 10. Denver Art Museum, Denver. denverartmuseum.org 9 PHOTO BYJAMES FLORIO PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY THE DENVER CENTER FOR THE PERFROMING ARTS

Water for Elephants The critically-acclaimed bestselling novel comes to “thrilling, dazzling” life in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical! From February 11-14,it is hailed as stunning, emotional, heart-filled and gorgeously imaginative. Buell Theatre, Denver. artscomplex.com

Monster Jam

Nothing compares to the one and only Monster Jam. With awesome trucks, amazing stunts, and action-packed excitement, it’s the definition of fun for everyone! From February 6-8 at Ball Arena, Denver. monsterjam.com

Carnivale & Mumbo GumboCookOff Are you an aspiring gumbo chef? Are you better-suited to snacking? Taste what the 20 gumbo chefs have cooked up in the park and vote for your favorite while exploring the carnivale on February 14. Manitou Springs. manitousprings.org

FEBRUARY 2026 COLORADOPARENT.COM 23

Monster Jam. With awesome trucks, amazing stunts, and action-packed excitement, it’s the definition of fun for everyone! Ball Arena, Denver. monsterjam.com Murder Mystery Dinner Theater Show at the Old Spaghetti Factory 7pm It’s the immersive mystery experience everyone is dying to attend. Why watch a show when you can be a part of one? Work with a team of fellow sleuths to unravel the secrets of the mystery, where even you can be the perpetrator. The Old Spaghetti Factory, Westminster. murdermysterydinnerdenver.com

7 Saturday Chinese New Year Festival 10am-4:30pm The 2026 Lunar New Year Festival

continues to be a popular cultural event in Colorado Springs with the traditional lion dance, Asian Aerial Acrobats, Taiko drummers, Asian ribbon & fan dances, unique Chinese musical instrument performances, the Dragon Dance, an Asian contortionist, and more. Ent Center for the Arts, Colorado Springs. cscci.org/CNYF

Cupid’s Undie Run Saturday, Feb. 28

3 Tuesday Jessie J - No Secrets Tour 7pm

1 Sunday Itzhak Perlman with the Colorado Symphony 2pm

Springs. steamboatchamber.com

5 Thursday Bad Books Play Through February 15 A concerned mother. A dedicated librarian. The quietest place in America turns into the battleground for a fiery debate about parenting and censorship that starts a chain of events no one saw coming. Dairy Arts Center, Boulder. localtheaterco.org

Rhythms of the Cosmos with The Denver Brass 2:30pm

Grammy-nominated sensation Jessi J is bringing the No Secrets Tour back to Denver! Summit Music Hall, Denver. jessiej.os.fan

The Colorado Symphony and Music Director Peter Oundjian take the main stage at Carnegie Hall, where they will perform alongside violinist Itzhak Perlman — 16‑time GRAMMY® Award winner and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. coloradosymphony.org

Embark on an interstellar journey with sounds that transcend the boundaries of space and time. Featuring bold percussion, intricate meters, and the world premiere of Sean Schafer Hennessy’s Guardians of Time. Lift off to Mars and beyond with driving celestial brass. Newman Center for the Performing Arts, Denver. denverbrass.org Sharkey’s Sweetheart Breakfast 9am Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved ones this February at the Aquarium! Downtown Aquarium, Denver. acquariumrestaurants.com 8 Sunday Ballet Ariel Presents Little Women 3pm Little Women is a ballet based on the 1869 book by Louisa May Alcott. It follows the four March sisters, Amy, Beth, Jo, and Meg, from Christmastime and beyond, as they grow up during the Civil War era and find their place in the world. The Schoolhouse Theater, Parker. parkerco.gov Tween, Teen and Adult Art Social 1pm Decorate a journal and write a love letter too at this cozy event focusing on self-kindness and joy. Art Club Coffee, Denver. artclubcoffee.com

4 Wednesday Cooking & Culture for Kids 4pm

Explore the world through food with new recipes, fun and friends. For kids in grades 1-5. Broomfield Library and Auditorium, Broomfield. compass. broomfield.org

Paw Patrol 11am & 3pm

Bilingual Storytime 10:30am

Get ready to PAW-ty like never before in a fun-tastic new PAW Patrol Adventure! With heroic action, catchy tunes, and bark-loads of interactive fun, PAW Patrol’s electrifying new adventure is sure to leave tails wagging and audiences cheering. Bellco Theatre, Denver. denverconvention.com

Kids and caregivers, join for bilingual stories and activities! Lafayette Public Library, Lafayette. lafayetteco.gov/storytimes.

Dirty Dancing in Concert 7:30pm

Watch the digitally remastered film in full on a massive cinema screen, while a live band and singers perform every unforgettable song from the original soundtrack, syncing with each moment of the movie. Denver Performing Arts Complex, Denver. artscomplex.com Seedlings: Garden Hearts and Blooms 9:15am and 10:30am Explore the colors of flowers and the messages they send! Create a flower craft to share with a loved one through a fun, hands-on way for young children to explore the plant world while developing an understanding and appreciation for plants. Ages 3-6 years. Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver. botanicgardens.org

Read to a Dog 3:45pm Every Thursday, students in

Kindergarten through 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, Broomfield. compass.broomfield.org 6 Friday First Friday Art Walk 5:30-9:30pm First Friday Art Walks continue in Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe Drive! Year-round, rain or shine, join for late- night viewing of artwork at 100+ art galleries, artists’ studios, and creative businesses. Santa Fe Drive, Denver. denversartdistrict.org Monster Jam Through February 8 Nothing compares to the one and only

2 Monday Yoga, Sake & Sushi Every Monday at 6pm

A 60-minute all-levels yoga class with Denver Yoga Social followed by Sake & Sushi Specials from Colorado Sake Co. Colorado Sake Co in RiNo, Denver. yogasocial.org

Winter Carnival Through February 7

This unique event includes everything from kids pulled on skis behind horses down a snow-covered main street, to the Lighted Man at the Night Show Extravaganza whose battery-powered suit weighs 70 pounds. Steamboat

VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

9 Monday Science Studio for Homeschoolers: Plant Fossils

24 COLORADO PARENT FEBRUARY 2026

10am Travel back in time as paleobotanists to study fossils from ancient plants. Explore how plants become fossils and what fossils can tell us about the past. Use mineral paints to replicate the patterns and colors found in plant fossils. Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver. botanicgardens.org 10 Tuesday Free Day at Denver Art Museum 10am-8pm Engage with art, experience onsite activities, and explore the art on view all while enjoying free general admission. Denver Art Museum, Denver. denverartmuseum.org 11 Wednesday Water for Elephants Through February 14 The critically-acclaimed bestselling novel comes to “thrilling, dazzling” life in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical! Hailed as a Critic’s Pick, The New York Times calls it “stunning, emotional, heart-filled and gorgeously imaginative.” Buell Theatre, Denver. artscomplex.com

celebrates its 40th year with a stellar lineup, instrument workshops, the Rocky Mountain Band Scramble, Bluegrass Karaoke with a live band, a vendor market and jamming all over the hotel. Delta Hotel by Marriott, Northglenn. midwinterbluegrass.com

Museum, Broomfield. broomfield.org

enjoy the zoo! Denver Zoo, Denver. denverzoo.org

15 Sunday Book Swap 3pm

Paws to Read 1:30pm

Kids ages 5-10, spend 15 minutes reading to a special therapy dog! They are cuddly, good listeners who would love to hear your stories. Lafayette Public Library, Lafayette. lafayettepubliclibrary.com 23 Monday Homeschool Day: Be a Botanist 10am Spend a day in the boots of a botanist and investigate plants like a scientist. Explore the tools botanists use in the field, examine herbarium specimens, and learn how biodiversity research at Denver Botanic Gardens is applied to real-world conservation efforts. Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver. botanicgardens.org

Denver Book Swap Society hosts book swap events for people to pass along their books in exchange for new (to them) books to take home. Denver Milk Market, Denver. Instagram.com/ denverbookswapsociety

Romeo and Juliet Through February 15

After a chance meeting, a forbidden romance is ignited between two young lovers. In their parents’ world of violent ends, Romeo and Juliet manage to forge a connection across enemy lines. Arvada Center, Arvada. arvadacenter.org 14 Saturday Loveland Sweetheart Festival 10am-8pm Bring the family or your sweetheart for free fun in the Sweetheart City, including a day full of live ice sculpting, fire and art demonstrations, musical and dance performances on our community stage and the Little Miss Valentine & Little Mister Cupid Contest. Loveland. visitloveland.com

Low Sensory Mornings 8:30am

For people with autism or sensory processing disorders, the Aquarium Exhibits can be a bit overwhelming. Join on a special morning when they open early and turn down the ambient sounds so you and your family can enjoy the aquarium in a calmer and more quiet setting. Downtown Aquarium, Denver. aquariumrestaurants.com 17 Tuesday Broomfield Symphony Orchestra 4:30pm The Broomfield Symphony Orchestra will be performing a concert at the Broomfield Library and Auditorium, Broomfield. compass.broomfield.org

24 Tuesday Food Truck Rally 5pm-8pm

Manitou Springs Carnivale & Mumbo Gumbo Cook-Off All day

Are you an aspiring gumbo chef? Are you better-suited to snacking? Taste what the 20 gumbo chefs have cooked up in the park and vote for your favorite. Manitou Springs. manitousprings.org

Discover the top-rated food trucks in Estes Park! Estes Park. visitestespark.com

13 Friday Downtown Aquarium Sloth Sip N’ Paint 5:30pm

The Music Man Through March 1 Meredith Willson’s six-time, Tony

18 Wednesday Sensory Friendly Afternoon 3pm During quiet sensory-friendly

Join at the Aquarium and bring out your artistic side! Paint a portrait of Aspen, alongside Aspen! Downtown aquarium, Denver. aquariumrestaurants.com Princess Ball 6pm All ages are welcome for an enchanting evening at the Princess Ball. Tickets include dancing, activities, crafts, desserts, and refreshments. Cottonwood Lodge at Hyland Hills, Westminster. hylandhills.org Midwinter Bluegrass Festival Through February 15 This beloved indoor pickers’ festival

Winter Tequila Tasting Festival 2:30pm

Award-winning musical comedy The Music Man follows fast-talking traveling salesman, Harold Hill, as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band that he vows to organize – this, despite the fact that he doesn’t know a trombone from a treble clef. Buell Theatre, Denver. denvercenter.org

Ready to warm up your winter with the ultimate agave adventure? This Valentine’s Day, give yourself and your crew the best gift of all: memories, good vibes, and great tequila! Mile High Spirits, Denver. besocialscene.com

afternoons, experience the exhibits in a unique way that meets the needs of your family! Butterfly Pavilion, Westminster. butterflies.org

20 Friday Colorado Environmental Film Festival Through February 22 Celebrating two decades of inspiring environmental storytelling, CEFF returns with a dynamic lineup of world-class films from around the globe—including features, shorts, Colorado stories, and youth-made films. Green Center at Colorado School of Mines, Golden. ceff.net

Valentine’s Day at the Depot 11am

Bring your valentine to the Broomfield Depot Museum and make your own vintage Valentine’s Day cards! Try your hand at writing with a traditional fountain pen while learning more about the history of Valentine’s Day. Depot

WinterWonderGrass Festival Through March 1

The 12th annual WinterWonderGrass festival will spoil you with cool music and cold brews. This is an outdoor event that welcomes everyone even in snow, sunshine, and rain. The annual festival offers live music entertainment from 25+ bands on 4 stages over 3 days. Steamboat Springs. winterwondergrass.com

21 Saturday Dance Together - A Class for Parents and Kids 10:15am

28 Saturday Cupid’s Undie Run 12pm

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, Westminster. comovelab.com 22 Sunday Free Day at Denver Zoo Varied times The Denver Zoo is offering a Community Free Day for anyone to

Every February, thousands of “undie” runners come together to support those affected by NF, a group of genetic conditions that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. Cupid’s Undie Run kicks off with drinking and dancing, then jogging it out with a mile(ish) run and ending with a dance party. Stoney’s Bar and Grill, Denver. cupids.org

WinterWonderGrass Feb. 27 - March 1

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