October 2025
Autumn Adventures
Beyond Backward Letters: Dyslexia Uncovered
Resources for Special Needs Families
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good to know
contents
Fall Fun Checklist By Sanonna Al Taweel Photo by Freepik.com
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good to know 08 Local Autumn Days at Anderson Farms 10 Solutions To School or Not to School 12 Things We Love Fall Into Focus 14 Roundup Exceptional Lives Listing 32 The Last Word Friday the 13th: 13 Facts that Might Surprise You features 16 Sunsets & Smiles in Riviera Nayarit 18 Understanding Glass Child Syndrome 20 Understanding Dyslexia: What Parents Need to Know 22 Understanding Dyslexia: Fall Fun Activities happenings 25 Our Picks for October 28 To Do Today fresh mindset 34 Meet Jennifer Todling
See the Leaves Change Colorado can’t be beat when it comes to leaf peeping. There are nearly endless options for beautiful drives and hikes to get your fill of the red, orange, and golden leaves. Within an hour’s drive of Denver, you can easily check out Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Georgetown, and Kenosha Pass. Join Your Community for a Fall Fest I am not exaggerating when I say fall fests are easy to find in Denver. Nearly every suburb, church, and school puts one on at some point in the season. And most of them are free! Fall fests are a great way to meet people in your community and enjoy fall-themed crafts and activities. Get Your Spooky On With Halloween right around the corner, you might be looking for something a little more heart-pounding. If that’s the case, then check out the 13th Floor Haunted House or Anderson Farms’ Terror in the Corn attraction for a fear-filled evening. There’s plenty going on this season, but you don’t have to do it all! Pick a few things that sound fun, skip the rest, and just enjoy whatever version of fall works for you. The leaves will turn, the cider will still taste good, and the rest will be there next year.
Pumpkins, and apples, and leaves, oh my! Fall has fully arrived, and we’re loving all the seasonal fun happening around town. To make your family’s autumn the most amazing it can be, we’ve put together this fall fun checklist that’s packed with cozy activities, festive events, and memory- making moments for all ages. Grab a Pumpkin from the Patch There’s absolutely nothing wrong with picking up a pumpkin from the produce section at King Soopers. Buttttt if you’re wanting a little more of a seasonal experience, then the patch is where it’s at. We highly recommend Anderson Farms in Erie or Rock Creek Farms in Broomfield. Eat All the Fall Treats Fall has some of the best seasonal treats, in my humble opinion. I mean, c’mon… caramel apples, pumpkin spice lattes, and apple cider donuts?? Doesn’t get better than that. You could even stop by several coffee and dessert shops and make an autumn treat charcuterie board! Spend a Cozy Evening at Home Spend the night cooking an autumn- inspired meal together, then get under the fluffiest blankets you own and put on a movie. Hotel Transylvania is a great pick for spooky vibes that are kid-friendly.
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good to know local
Autumn Days at Anderson Farms By Sanonna Al Taweel
F or many Colorado families, This family-run farm, about 25 miles north of Denver, has turned its wide-open fields and weathered barns into a fall playground, drawing visitors from all over the Front Range. What started as a modest pumpkin patch in the late ’90s has grown into one of the state’s most beloved autumn destinations. It’s a place where hay bales double as jungle gyms, wagon rides turn into adventures, and every corner offers something new to explore. From toddlers on their first barrel train ride to grandparents snapping photos of the grandkids among the pumpkins, Anderson Farms is the kind of place that the search for the perfect pumpkin patch ends at Anderson Farms in Erie. brings generations together. The charm isn’t just in the activities, it’s in the fresh air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the warm welcome that greets you the moment you step onto the farm. Anderson Farms has been planting pumpkins since 1997, and the pumpkin patch itself stretches across 35 acres. Visitors can hop aboard a tractor-pulled wagon for a ride out to the fields, where hundreds of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes are scattered across the ground. Kids can pull their own wagons, hunt for “the
one,” and climb over the vines while parents debate how many they can fit in the trunk. But pumpkins are just the start. Anderson Farms is also known for its massive corn maze. Each year brings a new design carved into 25 acres of corn, with multiple levels of difficulty for different ages and patience levels. There’s also a separate “mini maze” for little kids who aren’t ready for the full adventure. Beyond the pumpkins and the maze, the farm offers pedal karts, a barrel train ride, a pumpkin cannon, and farm animals to meet. Kids can burn off energy in the sprawling play area, complete with tire mountain, hay bale tunnels, and a giant combine slide that’s become a favorite photo spot. There’s also gem mining for aspiring treasure hunters, where kids can sift through sand and water to discover colorful stones and fossils. For those who lean spooky, Anderson Farms is also home to Terror in the Corn, a haunted attraction that opens at sundown and transforms part of the corn maze into a terrifying nighttime experience. With elaborate sets, live actors, and spine-chilling special effects, the haunted trail weaves through haunted shacks, eerie woods, and
pitch-black cornrows. It’s not recommended for young kids, but teens and adults show up in groups ready to scream, laugh, and test their courage. Brave participants can even make it a dare: Who can make it through without running? The farm can get busy on peak weekends, especially in October. Weekdays are quieter, and the farm offers discounted admission for school field trips and homeschool groups. Whether you go early to avoid the rush or closer to Halloween for the full atmosphere, the farm feels like an autumn ritual that keeps families coming back year after year. Whether you’re starting a new tradition or continuing an old one, Anderson Farms delivers that perfect blend of nostalgia and fun that defines autumn in Colorado. Anderson Farms is open for fall festivities through Oct. 26. Tickets can be purchased online, and certain attractions (like Terror in the Corn) require separate reservations. Anderson Farms 6728 County Road 3 1/4, Erie, CO
andersonfarms.com Open through Oct. 26 Tickets start at $17 online Parking is free
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good to know solutions
To School or Not to School: A Sick Kid Checklist By Amanda Ciani S chool is in full swing! Which means lots of laughs in the lunch room, fun science class experiments, games in
notes that, “ It’s important to make sure your kids are up-to-date on vaccines before going back to school. This includes getting an annual flu vaccine in the fall. Vaccines are safe and effective.” Furthermore, Dr. Scaggs Huang is a mom who relays, “I know that my children are much less likely to get a serious infection from germs that cause bacterial pneumonia or meningitis, chickenpox or measles because they are vaccinated.” THE STAY-HOME CHECKLIST There are a few indisputable, “You are definitely staying home from school today” situations. These include: - Fever - Diarrhea - Vomiting - Severe cough and cold symptoms First up, fever. “A fever is a temperature greater than 100.4 Fahrenheit. When your child’s body detects an infection, their temperature may rise to help fight it.”, Scaggs Huang informs. “Daily fever for more than a few days, breathing hard and fast, and difficulty staying hydrated are all signs that there might be something more serious going on that your doctor should check out.” Next, diarrhea. Simply put, a student cannot learn if they are in the bathroom instead of the classroom. Beyond not feeling well and not being capable of learning, diarrhea is also a symptom of contagious sicknesses such as viral gastroenteritis. Likewise, students who have vomited more than twice within a 24-hour period need rest and hydration from the comforts of home. Vomiting at school spreads germs and is downright stressful for the student. Finally, sniffles and coughs happen. A mild
case of the sniffles is probably okay for a child to go to school. However, Scaggs Huang suggests that, “ if your child was up all night with a bad cough, he or she may not feel well enough to learn in class.”. If the sniffles and cough are accompanied by a fever? That, too, means some time spent learning at home. KEEP YOUR SICK KID FROM GETTING EVEN SICKER Ever notice that sicknesses sometimes fall like dominoes, one after the other? A cold, then a stomach thing, and then now a bout of pink eye?! Unfortunately, misery loves company. Sick children have weakened immune systems, which means they are more likely to pick up additional sicknesses. Keeping sick kids at home keeps them from catching even more sicknesses. RETURNING TO SCHOOL Many schools have a 24-hour rule when it comes to coming back to school. Once a student is 24-hours fever-free and their symptoms are decreasing, it is probably okay to head back to school. Go by the book and “check with your school about its illness policy, as (those) can vary,” says Scaggs Huang. A checklist and checking the school handbook is helpful in knowing when kids should stay home sick. But also, parents just know their kids, right? As a parent, you know the glassy eye look, the clammy feeling on their skin, a certain tone of voice, and yes, some parents report they can even smell when their kid is sick. So of course, go by the books when it comes to keeping home your sick kid… but also… trust your gut. Be well and wash those hands! Colorado Parent Magazine
the gym, field trips, lots of extracurriculars and more. It also, unfortunately, means little grubby hands passing around germs during all of those activities. There are some preventative measures that can be taken to keep kiddos healthy, but once a sickness begins to rear its ugly heads, a choice has to be made: to send them to school or to not send them to school. Afterall, it could just be autumnal allergies! And what about if they aren’t even running a fever?! What if they are faking because they are worried about taking a test?! Don’t worry, we chatted with an expert and have answers to the most asked school-related sickness questions. There are a few everyday habits that can help children maintain good overall health. Eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of fluids and taking a multivitamin is a good start! Staying active while also getting enough sleep are also helpful habits that benefit everyone’s health. It isn’t a bad idea to remind children (regardless of their age) that handwashing, and more specifically proper handwashing is very important! This means wetting the hands, applying soap, and scrubbing all surfaces of the hands— fingertips, too—for at least 20 seconds before rinsing and drying. Finally, a tricky one for younger kiddos: avoiding touching one’s face is a good way to keep germs at bay. Dr. Felicia Scaggs Huang, MD, MS, is a Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center pediatrician who also serves as the system’s medical director for Infection Prevention Control. As someone who specializes in infectious diseases, she also STAYING HEALTHY AS PREVENTATIVE CARE
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good to know things we love
Things We Love Fall Into Focus Embrace the fall season and create a space where you can foster creativity, coziness, and clarity. From smart storage solutions to time-saving tools, these essentials are perfect for making the rest of your autumn peaceful and productive.
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This Modern Weave Rattan Low-Handle Basket is the perfect autumnal touch to your organizational needs. $65, westelm.com
With 52 undated weekly pages, this Jen Simpson Design Weekly Planner is the perfect tool for staying on top of life. $24.50, jensimpsondesign.com
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See your plans at a glance on this Custom Acrylic Monthly Wall Calendar. $32.95–136.46, 1801andco on etsy.com
Storage has never been cuter than with these Rounded Clear Glass and Acacia Wood Storage Canisters. $12.99, worldmarket.com
The JoySusie Essential Oil Diffuser makes any space a peaceful haven
for getting things done. $27.99, amazon.com
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good to know roundup
Exceptional Lives Resources
TAC (303) 295-0163 2960 S Umatilla St., Englewood buildwithtact.org THRIVE Center (303) 632-6840 3131 S Vaughn Way,
#1805, Arvada ddrcco.com
CONGENITAL HEART DEFECTS CARE Heart Institute at Children’s Hospital Colorado (720) 777-6820
Dyslexia Solutions of Colorado, LLC (720) 291-3763
13123 E 16th Ave., Aurora childrenscolorado.org Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children (720) 754-1000 2001 N High St., Denver healthonecares.com
3701 W 25th Ave., Denver dyslexiasolutionsofcolorado.com
Hulstrom K-8 (720) 972-5400 11551 Wyco Dr., Northglenn hulstrom.adams12.org JumpStart Autism Center (303) 284-7328 369 Inverness Pkwy.,
#214, Aurora thrivectr.org
TLC Learning Center (303) 776-7417 611 Korte Pkwy., Longmont learningwithtlc.org
Pediatrix Cardiology of the Rocky Mountains - Presbyterian St Luke’s
Zach’s Place at the Laurie Hillyard Family Center (719) 329-1717 4795 Granby Cir., Colorado Springs sksfcolorado.org
#375, Englewood jumpstartaba.com
(303) 860-9933 2055 High St., #255, Denver pediatrix.com
Monarch Academy (303) 805-9110 12201 S Parker Rd., Parker monarchacademy.org Results Learning (303) 771-1160 2323 S Troy St., Aurora results-learning.com
Pediatrix Cardiology of the Rocky Mountains - Sky Ridge (303) 860-9933 10099 Ridgegate Pkwy., Ste. 300, Lone Tree pediatrix.com
NONPROFITS Ability Connection Colorado (303) 691-9339 801 Yosemite St., Denver abilityconnectioncolorado.org
UCHealth Adult Congenital Heart Disease - Anschutz Medical Campus (720) 848-5300
AdvocacyDenver (303) 831-7733 950 S Cherry St., Denver advocacydenver.org
Instructional Services Center (720) 542-4500 2401 W 80th Ave., Denver westministerpublicschools.org
12505 E 16th Ave., Aurora uchealth.org
Anchor Center for Blind Children (303) 377-9732 2550 Roslyn St., Denver anchorcenter.org
UCHealth Heart Clinic - Memorial Hospital North (719) 364-6550 4110 Briargate Pkwy., Ste. 400, Colorado Springs uchealth.org LEARNING CENTERS Aurora Special Education (303) 340-0510
The Joshua School (303) 758-7171 2303 E Dartmouth Ave., Englewood joshuaschool.org
Bridges of Colorado (844) 921-1568 2600 S Parker Rd., Ste. 6-163, Aurora bridges.colorado.gov
Parent to Parent of Colorado (877) 472-7201 801 Yosemite St., Denver abilityconnectionscolorado.org
Colorado Alliance of Research (303) 759-3399 3801 E Florida Ave., Denver alliancecolorado.org Developmental Pathways (303) 360-6600 14280 E Jewell Ave.,
15751 E 1st Ave., Aurora aurorak12.org
Humanex Academy (303) 783-0137 2700 S Zuni St., Englewood humanexacademy.org
Developmental Disabilities Resource Center (720) 544-8100 12665 W 52nd Ave.,
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All Stars Club, Littleton (720) 207-1252 12325 W Bowles
In! Pathways to Inclusive Higher Education (720) 629-0196 inclusivehighered.org Key Autism Services (888) 329-4535 6855 S Havana St., Centennial keyautismservices.com Learning Disabilities Association of America, Colorado Chapter (412) 341-1515 nchpad.org
Ste. A, Aurora dpcolo.org
Global Down Syndrome Foundation (303) 321-6277
Ave., Littleton allstarsclub.org
3239 E 2nd Ave., Denver globaldownsyndrome.org Lily Grace Foundation (720) 625-1007 3000 Youngfield St., #159, Wheat Ridge lilygracefoundation.org Peak Parent Center (719) 531-9400 917 E Moreno Ave., #140, Colorado Springs peakparent.org The Arc (303) 864-9334 Multiple Locations thearc.org The Ride School of Denver
All Stars Club, Northglenn (720) 272-2378 10451 Huron
St., Northglenn allstarsclub.org
Anchor Center for Blind Children (303) 377-9732 2550 Roslyn St., Denver anchorcenter.org
Autism Home Support Services (720) 500-2524 8008 E Arapahoe Ct., Ste. 110, Centennial autismhomesupport.com Autism Community Store (303) 309-3647 14095 E Exposition Ave., Aurora autismcommunitystore.com Behavioral Innovations (855) 782-7822 Multiple Locations behavioral-innovations.com
Megan’s Place (303) 881-4988 6175 W 38th Ave., Wheat Ridge megansplacellc.org Parallel Play, LLC (720) 900-5331 2501 Dallas St., Ste. 260, Aurora parallelplay.today RespiteCare (970) 207-9435 respitecareinc.org
(303) 756-7473 4901 E Eastman Ave., Denver risedenver.org
Special Kids Special Families (719) 447-8983 sksfcolorado.org
Rocky Mountain Down Syndrome Association (303) 797-1699 3033 S Parker Rd., Ste. 504, Aurora rmdsa.org
BehaviorSpan (720) 206-9644 14707 E 2nd Ave., GL 100, Aurora behaviorspan.com Developmental FX (303) 333-8360 3615 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Denver developmentalfx.org Easterseals Colorado (303) 233-1666 393 S Harlan St., Ste. 250, Lakewood easterseals.com Family Voices Colorado (303) 877-1747 303 E 17th Ave., Ste. 400, Denver familyvoicesco.org
Rocky Mountain ADA Center (719) 444-0268 1170 Campus Box, #155, Greeley rockymountainada.org Rocky Mountain Branch of International Dyslexia Association (303) 721-9425 740 Yale Cir., Boulder idarmb.org Specialized Sitters (303) 910-4158 specializedsitters.com The Stepping Stones Group (877) 900-6497 thesteppingstonesgroup.com
Roundup Fellowship Main Office (303) 757-8008 3443 S Galena St., #310, Denver rup.org
Roundup River Ranch (970) 524-2267 8333 Colorado River Rd., Gypsum roundupriverranch.org Imagine! Colorado (303) 665-7789 1400 Dixon Ave., Lafayette imaginecolorado.org
SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICE CENTERS All for Kids Home Health (720) 456-8054 4155 E Jewell Ave., #900, Denver allforkidshealth.com
Feel the Beat (303) 816-8683 1555 Dover St., Lakewood feelthebeat.dance
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SUNSETS Smiles L et’s be honest—leaving the country for vacation is stress- ful enough, but throw kids into the mix and you’re officially at max-anxiety capacity. So when we arrived Banderas Bay where the jungle meets the sea, it’s more than just a beach getaway. We soaked up the sun and tried fun water in RIVIERA NAYARIT & Publisher Amy L. Foreman
surviving almost entirely on chicken nuggets and mocktails. (The piña colada and “Superman”—a red and blue Shirley Temple combo—were the kids favorites.) The poolside service was next-level; by midweek, our waiter not only knew our entire order but was slipping my husband off-menu dishes and cocktails he swore by. And can we talk about the Kids and Teens Clubs? Lifesavers. When the boys had their fill of the pool, they darted off to the Summer Land Kids Club for water slides, soccer, and endless games. By day two, the staff knew one of my sons by name and greeted him like an old friend—such a personal touch that melted my heart. After dinner, my daughter enjoyed her quiet time in the room and the boys leveled up to the Teens Club, where they played pool,
activities like boogie boarding and jet skiing. If you are looking for an adven- ture off the property, you can go on jungle adventures, explore charming local towns, and even spot humpback whales and dol- phins. There’s also snorkeling, fishing, and ziplining. Honestly, it’s the kind of vacation where you come home with way too many favorite memories and wish you had just a few more days. Mornings quickly became a routine at Azul, the breakfast buffet that made me crave fresh fruit and made-to-order om- elets before I’d even gone to bed. Days were spent poolside, where my daughter proudly became the “first in, last out” swimmer,
16 COLORADO PARENT OCTOBER 2025 28 OCTOBER 2025 | BRPARENTS.COM vacation spots that truly has something for everyone, and as a mom, I loved how family-friendly it felt. Nestled on beautiful at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, the warm welcome of cold washcloths and refreshing drinks was exactly what this frazzled mom needed. The view while checking in—sparkling pools stretching toward Banderas Bay—didn’t hurt either. Since we’re a family of five, we opted for two connecting rooms. Best decision ever. We had space, the kids had theirs, and everyone was happy. Vallarta-Nayarit is one of those
ping pong, video games, and, of course, air hockey. Meanwhile, my husband and I enjoyed some grown-up time at Koi Bar with live music and drinks, and I remem- bered what it felt like to be on vacation as a couple again. Finally, my Spa Day at SE Spa! The Water Ceremony began in the sauna which smelled like cinnamon, where the dry heat melted away tension and left me feeling lighter and more open. From there, I stepped into the steam room with chromo- therapy, where the warm mist and shifting colors created this almost meditative calm. A quick bi-thermal shower followed, the cool water waking me up after the heat. Then came the Jacuzzi, where the bubbling jets felt like a full-body massage. I contin- ued with hydro-reflexology, letting streams of water work over my feet and legs, which was surprisingly energizing. Afterward, I alternated between the hot and cold lagoons—a refreshing shock at first, but it left me buzzing with energy and clarity. The experience closed in the relaxation area, where I sank into a lounge chair with an aromatic neck pillow, cucumber slices over my eyes, and a cool scented towel. As I sipped fruit-infused water and nibbled on light snacks, I felt completely renewed, body and mind. Next, my aromatherapy massage left me so relaxed, I headed to the room to take a little nap. I really wish I could have this done every week of my life. I may not have so much anxiety! Evenings were for dining at Sen Lin, Lucca, and Frida, where the food, ambi- ance, and service were fabulous. Watching my kids try new dishes and actually liking them was a parenting miracle. On lazier nights, we ordered room service and played games in our pajamas—sometimes the simplest nights are the sweetest. Our rooms looked over the amphitheater so we enjoyed watching the evening shows while the sun set on the patio. From breathtaking sunsets to lazy afternoons by the pool and a little jet skiing thrown in, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit completely won us over. We’ve always been a beach-loving family, but this trip gave us a whole new appreciation for fami- ly-friendly all-inclusives. Let’s just say the kids are already lobbying for a return trip, and honestly, I can’t blame them. If your family loves the beach and a little adven- ture with a side of luxury, start packing your bags—you won’t regret it.
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Understanding Glass Child Syndrome
By Madison Voorhies
W hen a child in the family has medical, developmental, or behavioral needs that require extra care, parents often find them- selves pouring almost all of their time, energy, and resources into that child. While this is natural and necessary, it can leave their other children feeling overlooked, not because they are frag- ile, but because they become—in many ways—invisible. These siblings are some- times referred to as “glass children,” a term that describes the experience of being seen through. Alicia Maples, a former glass child, popularized the phrase in a 2010 TEDx talk, where she explained that “glass” doesn’t mean weak; It means transpar- ent. Many siblings of children with spe- cial needs grow up as the “easy ones:” self-sufficient, high-achieving, and rarely demanding attention. “Naturally, we are conditioned not to have any problems,” she says. “We are supposed to be per-
fect. When someone asks us how we’re doing, the answer is always, ‘I’m doing fine.’” Even when a glass child seems to man- age everything perfectly, the hidden emotional weight of growing up in a high-needs household can quietly shape their childhood. This often means taking on responsibilities far beyond their age and navigating complex family dynamics, sometimes without the sup- port they need. Growing Up Too Soon: Costs & Strengths Research shows that growing up as a “glass child” can carry real emotional costs. A 2024 integrated review of 60 studies published in the Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review found consistent patterns of “parentification,” where siblings take on adult responsibil- ities too early, along with emotional and behavioral struggles. Similarly, a large
U.S. study reported that siblings of children with developmental disabilities are more likely than their peers to develop depression and other mental health conditions. The risks are particularly evident in families with children facing a chronic illness. For example, research in pediatric oncology shows that siblings often struggle with anxiety, disrupted schooling, and feelings of isolation. Despite these challenges, many glass children develop remarkable strengths. They are often empathetic, resilient, and highly capable, traits born from learning how to adapt and care for others. But as they say, every rose has its thorn. In adulthood, former glass children may find themselves overa- chieving, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling guilty when prioritizing their own needs. The very habits that once kept the fami-
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ly afloat can lead to burnout if left untreated. The Road to Healing
For former glass children, healing often begins with acknowledging the invisible weight they carried while growing up. They may benefit greatly from struc- tured support programs, like sibling groups and counseling, which can improve coping strategies and overall well-being. Beyond peer support, indi- vidual therapy can help glass children untangle complicated family dynamics, while also teaching them to voice needs that once felt unacceptable. What many find most transformative is not simply processing the past, but developing the confidence to say: I matter too. Healing is less about erasing old patterns and more about rewriting the narrative of self, from the overlooked sibling to a person whose presence is acknowl- edged and valued. For Parents: Seeing the Invisible Sibling Parents can’t erase the challenges of raising a high-needs child, but they can take steps to ensure their other children feel seen. Experts emphasize three powerful tools: honest com- munication, dedicated attention, and validation. According to an article in Parents, explaining a sibling’s condition in age-appropriate ways helps reduce confusion and isolation. Even small rituals of one-on-one time— like a walk after dinner or reading before bed—signal that a child’s needs matter too. When difficult emotions surface, like jealousy or resentment, acknowledging them as normal rath- er than dismissing them can protect emotional health. Peer support is also critical; programs like Sibshops give sib- lings the chance to connect with others who share their experiences, breaking the sense of invisibility. In short, while parents may never be able to divide time perfectly, they can ensure that every child in the family grows up know- ing they are visible, valued, and loved. Glass children may grow up in the shadows, but they don’t have to stay there. With the right support, they can reclaim visibility and thrive. For parents, the most powerful step is simple: notice them. In doing so, every child in the family can grow up knowing they are seen, valued, and loved.
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Understanding Dyslexia: What Parents Need to Know By Julianna Steen
I t’s natural for your kid to struggle when learning to read, but what about when they’re still learning the alphabet after the other kids have moved on? “In first grade, I didn’t know all my letters, and everyone else was on sight words, and that’s when we started to realize something was wrong,” Gigi Casadaban, a friend with dyslexia, recalls. Hearing the diagnosis “dyslexia” might feel scary or intimidating as a parent, but you’re not alone: Dyslexia is actually pretty common—it affects 20 percent of the population and represents 80–90 percent of all those with learning disabilities. Moreover, early support can make a huge difference. DYSLEXIA DEFINED The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) defines dyslexia as “a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities.” In essence, your brain jumbles letters, words, and even the command from your parents to go clean your room, like a camera going in and out of focus. “Most people think it’s just a reading or spelling thing,” Casadaban explains. “Mainly, it’s a short-term memory problem. There’s really no such thing as memorizing something ‘for the test.’ I really do have to learn it.” The IDA explains that though the exact cause of dyslexia is still unclear, it affects the way the brain functions and develops, leading to unexpected deficits in cognitive abilities, reading comprehension, and a “reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.” It’s not about a child’s vision or level of intelligence. The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity claims
it is “most commonly due to a difficulty in phonological processing (the appreciation of the individual sounds of spoken language), which affects the ability of an individual to speak, read, spell, and often, learn a second language.” DYSLEXIA DIAGNOSED Dyslexia is typically diagnosed by a comprehensive exam, which involves “intellectual and academic achievement testing, as well as an assessment of the critical underlying language skills that are closely linked to dyslexia,” according to the IDA. The testing is more than checking your child’s current reading level: It covers literary challenges like phonological awareness, decoding, reading fluency and comprehension, and rapid naming to evaluate your child’s cognitive and language processes. If you believe your child might have dyslexia, begin by talking to their teacher or pediatrician. Signs to watch for include: - Difficulty learning letters and sounds - Trouble rhyming or remembering sequences - Slow, effortful reading - Avoidance of reading aloud - Poor spelling despite strong verbal skills If they attend public school, you can also request a free school evaluation under IDEA. Often, if a student fails a dyslexia screening test, they will be referred to the school- based problem-solving team, who will review the student’s data and develop an IEP (Individualized Education Program) plan for the student. The Student Action Plan can include dyslexia specific interventions, accommodations like extra time on tests, and/or assistive technology to assist the student in accessing content materials.
Private testing is also an option, available for a cost. DYSLEXIA SUPPORT TEAM “My parents were so supportive and never made me feel embarrassed,” Casadaban shares. “They were a real blessing in that they never hid it or acted like we shouldn’t tell people about my dyslexia.” Her advice to parents with a child with dyslexia is to embrace it and support your child—don’t be embarrassed by their dyslexia, because it will lead your kid to be embarrassed by it too. “I know it’s scary to find out something’s wrong with your kid and that you want them to do so well, but they’re going to be fine,” she assures parents. “School’s gonna be tough, but you know, that’s just sort of how it’s going to be, and your kid can do all the things you can do; It might just take them more time to do it. Ultimately they’re going to be great people with all kinds of opportunities for jobs and careers, especially with your help.” While it may feel hard to receive a diagnosis, consider how freeing it might be for your child. “Before we knew I had dyslexia, it was hard and frustrating for my parents and for me because I couldn’t get it together,” Casadaban says. “After, there was more of a plan, and my school really focused on getting stuff into my long-term memory.” Understanding the problem is the key to figuring out how to take steps to fix it! Try incorporating read-aloud time (even for older kids), using audiobooks and assistive tech (like speech-to-text), and praising your child’s effort, not just their achievements. DYSLEXIA TIMELINE There is no “cure” for dyslexia—it’s a lifelong journey. However, early intervention can be instrumental in helping your child
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learn. “Early intervention or additional direct instruction should begin as early as kindergarten or first grade for struggling readers when the gap is small and students benefit from brain plasticity advantages for learning language-based information,” the IDA recommends. When you first notice your child’s struggles, be proactive in advocating for them to get the resources they need. DYSLEXIA REFRAMED Although there are certainly challenges that your child will face because of dyslexia, there are also advantages. “When I was little, I just wanted it to go away,” Casadaban remembers. “But now, even on the days I’m more aware of my dyslexia, I wouldn’t change that about myself.” Casadaban’s parents would tell her growing up that it would both hurt and help her brain to have dyslexia—and now she finally understands what they meant. “It’s made me smarter. Academically, I can solve problems faster, I can make decisions based on less information, and I’m more creative, coming up with new ways to do things. I can teach others really well and explain how to do things better because I had to teach
myself my entire life.” Other benefits to dyslexia include developing more patience for others and yourself, as well as increased compassion, sympathy, and awareness toward others. “It makes me more aware of others in friendships because I know what it’s like to have something invisible that’s wrong with me,” Casadaban says. “There are days I wish I didn’t have dyslexia, but some days when I problem-solve, I know it’s because I grew up doing that.” Encourage your child to see the ways their dyslexia will grow them into a better person over time. DYSLEXIA TECH TIP Technology is a person with dyslexia’s best friend. For example, “Textbooks read to me, which can be really helpful,” Casadaban states. “Spellcheck is awesome, especially because it would take a lot of time when I was young.” You can also set reminders and to-do lists on your phone to help with their short-term memory struggles. Programs like Grammarly can also read everything your child types and highlight potential mistakes, which can help them to better process information. Speech-to-text typing and texting can also be a helpful tool. Plus, many e-readers like Kindles have a dyslexic
font that is easier to read.
DYSLEXIA RESOURCES There is a world of dyslexia-related resources available to you and your child at the click of a button, both locally and nationally. To learn more about what dyslexia is, check out International Dyslexia Association (IDA), Understood.org, Decoding Dyslexia, and Dr. Sally Shaywitz’s book Overcoming Dyslexia. Consider enrolling your child in a dyslexia school, tutoring, programs focused on structured literacy like Orton-Gillingham, or a curriculum like Barton or Wilson for targeted intervention. Remember, dyslexia may pose some difficulties, but it will grow your child in unique ways; with the right support and understanding, your child will thrive! And to your child with dyslexia,
Casadaban says, “I’m so sorry school is so different for you, but even if you don’t realize it, this is turning you into a more understanding person. One day you’ll find out something you’re great at and it will be so much better.” PARENTS DID YOU KNOW? Colorado is one of the few states with a program that allows a parent or family member to get paid to take care of their special needs child. If your child is on Medicaid, then you may qualify to get paid to take care of your child. All for Kids Home Health can help you find out if you qualify for this program. Our company was started by a parent walking in your shoes — so we understand your journey and care deeply about supporting you. We can help you find out if you qualify for this life-changing program. Benefits we offer include: Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) retirement plan Hospital pay and other support programs Contact us today to see if you qualify — and let’s walk this path together.
ALL FOR KIDS HOME HEALTH 4155 E. Jewell Ave, Ste 900, Denver, CO 80222 720-456-0854 | terri@allforkidshealth.com
OCTOBER 2025 COLORADOPARENT.COM 21
Fall Fun Activities
APPLE ORCHARDS Adam’s Apple Orchard & Country Store 42135 Co Rd. 43, Ault (970) 760-0279 adamsapplecolorado.com YA YA Farm & Orchard 6914 Ute Hwy., Longmont (303) 549-7447 yayafarmandorchard.com
Pumpkin Patch 12404 County Rd. 64 1.2, Greeley
8500 W Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton (720) 865-3500 botanicgardens.org Hankins Farms Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch 26745 Weld County Rd. 17, Johnstown (970) 408-0608 hankinsfarms.com Miners’ Pumpkin Patch
(970) 686-7225 tiggesfarm.com
FALL EVENTS Magic of the Jack-O’-Lanterns magicofthejackolanterns.com Pumpkin Fest 5222 Quaker St., Golden (303) 424-2346 prospectdistrict.org Oct. 4, 10am–1pm Pumpkin Festival 8500 W Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton (720) 765-3500 botanicgardens.org Oct. 10–12 Pumpkin Harvest Festival Four Mile Park, Denver (720) 865-0800 fourmilepark.org Oct. 18–19
CORN MAZES & PUMPKIN PATCHES 7th Generation Farm 1536 Courtesy Rd., Louisville (720) 499-8199 7thgenerationfarm.com Anderson Farms 6728 County Rd. 3 ¼, Erie (303) 828-5210 andersonfarms.com Anderson Patchwork Pumpkins 15415 Co-14, Ault The Bartels Farm 3424 E Douglas Rd., Fort Collins (970) 493-3853 thebartelspumpkinpatch.com Berry Patch Farms (303) 659-5050 (970) 227-4661 facebook.com
225 N Gate Blvd., Colorado Springs (719) 488-0880 minerspumpkinpatch.com Mile High Farms 11 Cavanaugh Rd., Bennett (720) 383-8227 milehighfarms.com Munson Farms 7455 Valmont Rd., Boulder (720) 491-1421 munsonfarms.com OSBORN Farm 1230 S Boise Ave., Loveland (970) 541-1212 osbornfarm.com Rock Creek Farm 2004 S 112th St., Broomfield (303) 465-9565 rockcreekfarm.com Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch 9059 Ute Hwy./CO 66, Longmont (303) 684-0087 rockymtnpumpkinranch.com Tigges Farm Roasted Chilies &
Pumpkin Patch Party 5280 Carr St., Arvada
allevents.in Oct. 25–26
FARMERS MARKETS Boulder County Farmers Market 13th St., Boulder bcfm.org 8am–2pm, Saturdays through Nov. 22 Parker Farmers Market 19565 Mainstreet, Parker thelocalcolorado.com 9am–1pm, Saturdays through Oct. 26
berrypatchfarms.com Cottonwood Farms 10600 Isabelle Rd., Lafayette (720) 890-4766 cottonwoodfarms.com Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms
22 COLORADO PARENT OCTOBER 2025
Real Farmers Market 824 Front St., Louisville realfarmersmarketco.com
8am–1pm, Saturdays through Oct. 11 Southwest Plaza Farmers Market Southwest Plaza, Littleton denverfarmersmarket.com 8am–2pm, Saturdays through Oct. 25 University Hills Farmers Market Wellshire Presbyterian Church, Denver farmersmarketscolorado.com 9am–1pm, Saturdays through Oct. 25 HAUNTED HOUSES 13th Floor Haunted House 3400 E 52nd Ave., Denver (303) 355-3327 13thfloorhauntedhouse.com Denver Terrors 200 E Colfax, Denver (720) 885-9930 denverterrors.com Fright Acres 11321 Dransfeldt Rd., Parker frightacres.com Ghost Ride Haunted Tours Denver Horror Theatre Haunted House 4504 S Independence St., Denver (720) 263-1178 horrortheatredenver.com The Empty Grave Haunted House 218 Kimbark St., Longmont (949) 257-2279 theemptygrave.com The Frightmare Compound 10798 Yukon St., Westminster (303) 467-2273 thefrightmarecompound.com The Ritual Haunted House 301 Englewood Pkwy., Englewood (720) 837-3425 theritualhauntedhouse.com World’s Scariest Haunted House 10500 W Bowles Ave., Littleton (720) 731-8970 worldsscariesthauntedhouse.net 1509 N Marion St., Denver ghostridehauntedtours.com Haunted Field of Screams 10451 McKay Rd., Thornton hauntedfieldofscreams.com
OCTOBER 2025 COLORADOPARENT.COM 23
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happenings
Our Picks OCTOBER
1 Wild Fall
Fall at the Zoo just got spooktacular! Enjoy creepy-crawly Animal Am- bassadors, pumpkin carving, and mysterious creature sightings. Through Oct. 31. Denver Zoo. denverzoo.org
Photo by Freepik.com
OCTOBER 2025 COLORADOPARENT.COM 25
Our Picks happenings
2
Durango Cowboy Gathering Back for its 37th year, this gathering of cowboys offers events and activities for all ages. Oct. 1–5. Durango. durangocowboygathering.org
3
Downtown Boulder Fall Fest An autumn festival with local food, live music, and family entertain- ment. Oct. 3–5. Pearl Street Mall, Boulder. boulderdowntown.com
4 Cider Days Live entertainment, festive activities, and harvest treats. Oct. 4–5. Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park. lakewood.org
5
Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield Farms Check out the 10-acre pumpkin patch, corn maze, and activities for the entire family. 9am–4pm, Oct. 10–12. Chatfield Farms, Littleton. botanicgardens.org
Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information. HEADS UP!
26 COLORADO PARENT OCTOBER 2025
happenings Our Picks
6 Telluride Horror Show Returning for its 16th edition, this film fest is for fans of everything spooky! Oct. 10–12. Telluride. telluridehorror- show.com
7
Tagawa Gardens Fall Family Festival A fall festival for all ages. Enjoy FREE live stage shows, a live reptile demo, mini train rides, and craft- ing opportunities. 11am–3pm, Oct. 12–13. Tagawa Gardens, Centennial. tagawagardens.com
8
Pumpkin Harvest Festival
Pick out a pumpkin, shop more than 40 vendors, and enjoy live music and festive treats. Oct. 18–19. Four Mile Historic Park, Denver. fourmilepark.org
Photo by Teksomolika on Freepik.com
10
Golden FestiFall
Originally the Golden Beer Tasting & Chili Cook Off, this festival is returning with fami- ly-friendly flair. A community-focused event featuring tasty beverages, snack vendors, music, and family activities. Get your tickets now! 1–4pm, Oct. 18. Parfet Park, Golden. goldenbeerchilicookoff.org
9
Treat Street A fun fall event for families to safely trick-or-treat! Reserve your tickets online. 11am–4pm, Oct. 18–19. Arapahoe County Fairgrounds, Aurora. arapahosecountyeventcenter.com
OCTOBER 2025 COLORADOPARENT.COM 27
October
happenings
Closing Day 8am–1pm
A weekly space for young writers! Oct. 1
Shop the farmers market and support local entrepreneurs on the market’s last day of the season. 1019 10th St., Golden. goldenfarmersmarket.org Lakewood Farmers Market Closing Day 10am–2pm Shop the farmers market and support local entrepreneurs on the market’s last day of the season. Mile Hi Church, Lakewood. denverfarmersmarket.com Parker Farmers Market 8am–1pm On Saturdays through October 26, you can shop the farmers market and support local entrepreneurs. 19565 Mainstreet, Parker. thelocalcolorado.com October 11, you can shop the farmers market and support local entrepreneurs. 824 Front St., Louisville. realfarmersmarketco.com Southwest Plaza Farmers Market 8am–2pm On Saturdays through October 25, you can shop the farmers market and support local entrepreneurs. Southwest Plaza, Littleton. denverfarmersmarket.com Real Farmers Market 9am–1pm On Saturdays through On Saturdays through October 25, you can shop the farmers market and support local entrepreneurs. Wellshire Presbyterian Church, Denver. farmersmarketscolorado.com 5 Sunday Colorado Ballet: Dracula 2pm See the spine-chilling story of Dracula performed in a University Hills Farmers Market 9am–1pm
to do today
1 Wednesday Boulder County Farmers Market 3:30–7:30pm On Wednesdays through
Arvada Center. arvadacenter.org
8am–2pm On Saturdays through November 22, you can shop the farmers market and support local entrepreneurs . 13th Street, Boulder. bcfm.org The Pumpkin Kid: A New Musical Every Saturday in October at 11am and 1pm An orphan boy with a wagon of misshapen pumpkins visits his sullen neighbors. They each loan him a discarded tool, and with these broken items, he is able to create magical carvings that somehow transform even the most cracked and ruined of hearts. Ballyhoo, Denver. eventbrite.com Candlelight Concert: The Best of Mozart & Beethoven 6:30pm A candlelit evening of music. Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver. feverup.com Candlelight Concert: Neo-Soul Favorites ft. Songs by Prince, Childish Gambino & More 8:45pm A candlelit evening of music. Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver. feverup.com
3 Friday Candlelight Concert: 90s Unplugged 6:30pm A candlelit evening of music. Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver. feverup.com Candlelight Concert: The Best of Joe Hisaishi 8:45pm A candlelit evening of music. Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver. feverup.com SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE 7:30pm Relive the magic of SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK at this fun show for all ages. Through Oct. 18. Aurora Fox Mainstage Theatre. aurorafoxartscenter.com Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4 7:30pm Spend an evening with the symphony. Through Oct. 5. Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. coloradosymphony.org
October 8, you can shop the farmers market and support local entrepreneurs. 13th Street, Boulder. bcfm.org
Creative Writing Club 4:30–6:30pm
A drop-in space for writers ages 12+ to collaborate, play writing games, and work on their projects. Every Wednesday, no registration required. Denver Public Library Smiley Branch. denverwrites.org
2 Thursday The Mousetrap 7:30pm
See the world’s longest-running play! A murder mystery with a clever plot. Through Oct. 12.
4 Saturday Boulder County Farmers Market
VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Golden Farmers Market
28 COLORADO PARENT OCTOBER 2025
October
happenings
ballet. Through Oct. 12. Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver. coloradoballet.org
A drop-in space for writers ages 12+ to collaborate, play writing games, and work on their projects. Every Thursday, no registration required. Second Star to the Right Books, Denver. denverwrites.org Laufey 7pm See Laufey perform. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison. redrocksonline.org 9 Thursday Colorado Avalanche vs. Utah Mammoth 7pm See the Avalanche take on the Mammoth. Ball Arena, Denver. nhl.com 10 Friday Aurora Borealis Festival 4–10pm, Oct. 10–11 A weekend of wonder featuring a stunning recreation of the northern lights, interactive light displays, a bazaar, and food vendors. Aurora. auroraborealisfestival.com Candlelight Concert: The Best of Hans Zimmer 6:30pm A candlelit evening of music. Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver. feverup.com
A candlelit evening of music. Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver. feverup.com
more. Venezia Community Park, Colorado Springs. coloradosprings.gov
11 Saturday Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons 6:30pm A candlelit evening of music. Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver. feverup.com
6 Monday Conan Gray 8pm
13 Monday Paranormal Cirque 7:30pm A spooky circus performance. Ages 13+. Town Center at Aurora. paranormalcirque.com 14 Tuesday Tween Scene 4pm Tween Scene is a monthly hangout where kids ages 9–12 can explore their creativity, build friendships, and have fun with hands-on activities, games, and challenges. Each month features a new theme—from DIY crafts to collaborative projects— designed to spark imagination and fun! Eloise May Library, Denver. arapahoelibraries.org Denver Nuggets vs. Chicago Bulls 7pm See the Nuggets take on the Bulls. Ball Arena, Denver. nba.com Free Day at Denver Art Museum All Day Gain free admission to the museum. Denver Art Museum. denverartmuseum.org Dance, wiggle and have fun while building little brains! Standley Lake Library, Arvada. jeffcolibrary.com 16 Thursday Lecrae 8pm See Lecrae perform. The Ogden Theatre, Denver. axs.com 15 Wednesday Let’s Dance 11:15am
See Conan Gray perform. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison. redrocksonline.org
Creative Writing Club 4:30–6:30pm
Cirque Cinema with Troupe Vertigo 7:30pm
A drop-in space for writers ages 12+ to collaborate, play writing games, and work on their projects. Every Monday, no registration required. BookGive Service Station, Denver. denverwrites.org
A dazzling show featuring aerial artists, contortionists, and ballet dancers. Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. coloradosymphony.org Colorado Avalanche vs. Dallas Stars 7pm See the Avalanche take on the Stars. Ball Arena, Denver. nhl.com Denver Writes Workshop: 17th Annual Scary Stories 3–7pm Join for Denver Writes’ biggest and most requested workshop! Kids will discuss what makes stories scary, and work on crafting their tales. The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys, Lakewood. denverwrites.org Pumpkins, games, wagon rides, and historical demonstrations. Littleton Museum. museum.littletonco.gov 12 Sunday Free Day at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science All Day Gain free admission to the museum. Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Denver. dmns.org Harvest Festival 10am–3pm
7 Tuesday Creative Writing Club 4:30–6:30pm
A drop-in space for writers ages 12+ to collaborate, play writing games, and work on their projects. Every Tuesday, no registration required. The Bookies Bookstore, Denver. denverwrites.org Young the Giant 8pm See Young the Giant perform. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison. redrocksonline.org
8 Wednesday Creative Writing Club 4:30–6:30pm
Candlelight Concert: Tribute to Fleetwood Mac 8:45pm
An enchanting festival on Oct. 10
Royal Fall Fest 2–4pm
17 Friday Mahler Symphony No. 9 with Andrew Litton
Celebrate five years of Ella’s Charm at this free event with meet-and-greets, crafts, and
OCTOBER 2025 COLORADOPARENT.COM 29
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