JUNE 2026
What’s Your Dad Style?
20 Ways to Discover Colorado
Keeping Love Alive With Kids
JUNE 2026 COLORADOPARENT.COM 1
HERE, YOU SAVE THE DAY EVERY DAY.
It’s time to swap everyday life for something EPIC. This isn’t just a vacation. It’s your superhero debut.
Your adventure starts at GaylordRockies.com
JUSTICE LEAGUE and all related characters and elements © & ™ DC
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THINGS WE LOVE MOM NEXT DOOR THINGS TO DO
features
PHOTOS BY MAGNIFIC.COM
14 WHAT KIND OF DAD ARE YOU?
18 MARRIAGE IN THE MIDDLE OF PARENTHOOD The normal transition into parenthood, typically seen as a time of joy, can also be a significant strain on new parents. Learn how couples can nurture and sustain their relationship while navigating the challenges and joys of raising children together. Colorado is famous for its sweeping mountain views and iconic outdoor adventures—but tucked between the well- trodden trails and postcard-perfect peaks are places that are a bit more unexpected. Explore these unique destinations, perfect for inspiring your next local adventure. 16 20 UNIQUE DESTINATIONS IN OUR STATE Curious what kind of dad you are and what that means for your kids? Take the quiz! From rule-setters and playmakers to dads just trying to keep up, fatherhood comes in a lot of different styles.
what’s on the web
Best Places to Splash Into Summer In need of a good splash to cool down? Here are the best family water spots to take a swim or enjoy some good water fun. How to Have an “Analog Summer” Here’s our go-to guide to unplugging from digital devices and embracing tactile, in-person experiences and slower living. Board Games for the Whole Family The best games that turn game night into everyone’s favorite night of the week. Men’s Mental Health Awareness June is Men’s Mental Health Month, and it’s important to check in on the men in our lives.
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THE Mama FILES Bittersweet & Sunburned W eell parents, we successfully com- pleted another school year. And just like that, the 2025–26 school year is officially in the books. Around our house, we’re not just closing a chapter — we’re practically starting a whole new series. My daughter graduated high school and will be starting college this summer. Cue all the emotions. Pride, excitement, panic, tears… sometimes all before my morning coffee. Meanwhile, my boys are moving up to 7th grade, and I’m fairly certain that by the end of summer I will officially be the shortest person in the house. I always knew that day would come, but I didn’t expect all these milestones to hit at once. I’ve been told time and time again that God only gives you what you can handle, so apparently He thinks I’m really strong these days.
MEET OUR TEAM
AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor
AMANDA CIANI REBECCA FAST 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 Creator
still give us time together.
SARAH MILLER MERCEDES MITCHELL SABRINA SMITH BREE WRAY Client Success Representatives ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT
Because these days, making memories has become my motto.
Even though my kids are teenagers now, I’m soaking up every moment I can get — especially the rare occasions when they still want to be seen in public with me. If you have teenagers, you completely understand. I may even turn our summer adventures into a bucket list and see how many we can cross off before school starts back up. At the end of the day, you can buy your kids all the things in the world, but things don’t last. Memories and experiences do. Those are the moments they’ll carry with them forever. And finally, one last thing that really made me laugh. The other day my husband pointed out to the boys that they’re moving from 6th grade to 7th grade… during the 2026/27 school year. If you know, you know. Just when I thought we were finally escaping all the “6/7” jokes, it turns out they’re only just beginning.
ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ MORGAN PRICE RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships
And now — summer. Sweet, glorious summer.
ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach
No homework. No carpool lines. No extra- curricular chaos. No packing lunches. No rushing forgotten books back to school because they somehow got left everywhere except their backpacks. And sadly, no more surprise hallway hugs from my daughter during volunteer time at school. But as bittersweet as it all feels, summer has a way of softening things. The days are longer, the sun feels brighter, and the pool keeps calling my name louder than my laundry pile. This year, instead of planning big beach vacations or cross-country trips, we’re focusing on smaller adventures and hidden local gems — quick getaways that
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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.
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New Family Law: Educating All Families local BY AMELIA ROESSLER
have the education and information they need to make informed decisions that are best for their family. That means Ferrell provides free presentations and workshops, and will sit down with potential clients to see what they need. “As a parent, you don’t want to think about what would happen to your kids if something happened to you because it’s really scary,” Ferrell emphasizes. “The reality is, it can be really scary if you don’t have a plan in place. I just want to sit down with people and say, these are your options.” Ferrell chose to practice with the education focus based on her own approach to parenting. She knows as a parent, you make decisions for your kids every day, but it’s not typically blindly. Ferrell says while you rely on other people’s research, you tend to also do your own, compile it, and see what works best for your family. That’s the same with estate planning. Rather than walking into an attorney’s office and saying, “Tell me what to do,” Ferrell gives parents the chance to collect all the information, distill it, and then make the decision that’s best for them. RAISING A CHILD AND A BUSINESS Ferrell started her business two years ago, and says that she has loved the challenge of starting it, despite how terrifying it can be. While circling questions of whether or not people would trust her, how she could convey she is a good attorney, and starting from scratch, Ferrell found the best thing to do is to lean into the community. “It’s been incredibly supportive and has allowed me to get to where I’ve been able to grow the firm. It’s been really fun too, because then I get to meet all of the other business owners and moms and just people in the community,” says Ferrell. Starting her own business while raising her daughter has allowed Ferrell to constantly reevaluate her priorities.
“In starting my business, it is a lot of work and it’s constantly on my mind. And so there is this piece of, ‘Am I taking away from time with my daughter that I could have had with her?’” Ferrell asks. “If I didn’t feel passionate about my firm or didn’t feel good about it, there are many other places I could use my time and energy. And one clear example of that is my daughter.” One of her favorite parts of the job is getting to meet people in the community. “I think it’s also fun just to see me out there in the community trying to parent as well. Like, yeah my daughter won’t get in her car seat. Oh, that happens to your kid too?” Ferrell laughs. BUILDING A COMMUNITY Her advice to other parents looking to start their own business is to lean into the community and others and to not be afraid to ask for help. She adds that the perception of “that person or business owner has it all together” goes against the reality that they were once in your shoes starting out and asking for help. For Ferrell, she’s found joy in being a business owner, being able to grow and shape the business as she wants, and helping people. “Even though we talk about planning for death, it’s a really joyful area of law. And I think what I love about it, and what I appreciate about it, is because I talk about death every day—the reason, I tell the client, that we are sitting here talking about death is because we are alive and we have capacity. And what that means is we can go outside after this conversation and enjoy the day, and we can go home and hug our loved ones,” she emphasizes. New Parent Law serves all of Colorado, with more focus on the wider Denver and Boulder region. For more information, check out their website at newparentlaw.com, or email them at info@newparentlaw.com.
W h hen she went into law, Emily Ferrell knew she didn’t want to work in a big law office in downtown Denver and wear a full suit everyday. So when she saw a huge gap in estate planning and parent needs, she decided to start her own firm, New Family Law, based in Lafayette. Ferrell lives in Erie with her husband and three-year-old daughter, after moving out to Colorado over a decade ago from New York to pursue law at the University of Colorado. “What I found is that friends were having babies and they’d come to me and say, ‘I think I need to name a guardian for my baby if something happens to me,’ or ‘I don’t know what I need. I have no idea where to start. It’s really overwhelming,’” says Ferrell. TEACHING PARENTS New Parent Law was started to address that gap. Ferrell and her team of five provide comprehensive estate planning in a very approachable, digestible manner. Ferrell says she realizes no parent wants to come in and talk about their own potential death, so she tries to make it as least overwhelming as possible. “We practice in an education-based format and approach. What that means is I understand that my clients know their families, their kids, their assets, their priorities better than I ever will. And that’s not my job as an attorney to know this,” Ferrell explains. She adds that her job is to make sure parents
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Things We Love Father’s Day is fast approaching, so we’ve gathered some things we think the dad who said he didn’t want anything would enjoy. Whether you’re spending time in the sun or just ready to laugh, we’ve got it all. Father’s Day Fun
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The Getaway Bag These travel bags are built for parents who want smarter ways to stay organized on the go. From the travel diaper bag to the carry-on-ready duffel and everyday fanny pack, each bag is designed to simplify family travel. $275, noreceptionclub.com
Grillmaster’s Cookout Caddy Keep the BBQ-ing tools together and within arm’s reach with this handcrafted personalized wooden carrying case. $65, uncommongoods.com
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Scratch Off Dad Jokes This set includes 40 extra-cheesy, hilarious dad jokes, each hand selected for maximum dad joke humor. All jokes are family-friendly, extra cheesy, and bound to put a smile on Dad’s face. $19, amazon.com
Verve Dwell Dropper Pour-Over Coffee Maker New dads know nothing is safe in a home with babies and toddlers. Not only is this silicone pour-over coffee maker indestructible, but it’s easy to use without a fancy coffee scale or electric kettle. $30, amazon.com
Freezable Beer Glasses No more warm beer—now Dad can enjoy his favorite pilsner, IPA, stout, cider, or Colorado beer in this chilled beer pint. $25, amazon.com
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mom next door Meet Julie Buck
will often surprise you with their resilience if you just let them try. After years of worrying about what was ahead and around the corner, Buck says she’s learned to just trust the process and the journey. “Stay in the moment and honor the child right in front of you. When you parent from your values—remaining consistent, warm, and firm—your children don’t just grow; they thrive,” says Buck. Living in Colorado, she says, has been a playground for her family. The sheer variety of environments, from the peaks of the Rockies to the hidden gems across the state, provides endless opportunities for her family to connect with nature. Buck adds that it’s a place that naturally encourages the kind of active, outdoor lifestyle her family values most. Rapid Fire Questions Favorite date night… A yummy meal at a favorite restaurant and a concert or sports event! Words that best describe your family… Sporty and funny Favorite genre of movie or television shows… Horror and comedy Favorite food… Nachos or buffalo wings
Occupation: Middle school teacher, tutor, and family coach Children: Two sons Hobbies: Skiing, traveling, eques- trianism, going to concerts, and being outdoors
BY AMELIA ROESSLER
J ulie Buck is a mother of two sons who lives with her husband and their two dogs and two cats in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood. She describes herself as a lifelong educator and advocate for children, while also wearing many different hats— doula, parent educator, consultant, school director, and even a car seat technician—all of which feed into her current work as a mid- dle school teacher, tutor, and family coach. A teacher since 1999, Buck has worked with everyone from toddlers to middle schoolers. Her philosophy is deeply rooted in fostering independence and observing the child. Buck’s family life is defined by movement and shared experiences. You can find her at the baseball field cheering on her sons, or with her family skiing, traveling, or gathered around the fire pit. She says she also has a deep-seated hope to return to the stables soon, as she was a collegiate equestrian. “Personally, I am an outdoor enthusiast—I love the beach, exercising, and walking with
my dogs,” says Buck. “To unwind, I’m a huge fan of live energy, whether that’s at a concert, a sports event, or a comedy club; I also have a bit of a penchant for horror movies.” She says the hardest part of parenting is often the internal work and learning to sep- arate her own fears or judgements so they don’t cloud her children’s experiences. “I’ve had to learn how to stay in my own lane, especially regarding their sports, and let them drive their own paths. But the payoff is extraordinary. There is no greater joy than watching them flourish and become the people they are meant to be,” explains Buck. The best piece of advice she says she ever received was to play. Be present. Let them fail. “Let them take age appropriate risks. Children are unique and resilient,” Buck emphasizes. For other parents, Buck suggests pausing and observing before stepping in. She adds that fostering independence is vital, and children
“
Stay in the moment and honor the child right in front of you. When you parent from your values—remaining consistent, warm, and firm —your children don’t just grow; they thrive.
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20 Unique Destinations in COLORADO
BY AMELIA ROESSLER PHOTO BY MAGNIFIC.COM
C olorado is famous for its sweeping mountain views and iconic outdoor adventures—but tucked between the well-trodden trails and postcard- perfect peaks are places that are a bit more unexpected. Whether you’re planning a family road trip or just looking for something new close to home, these 20 unique Colorado spots prove that adventure here comes in all kinds of surprising forms and is
worth the trip to pack the car, wrangle the kids, and make some new memories.
stands 15 feet tall, are massive and amazing, part of a global phenomenon focused on bringing awareness to the concern about depleted natural resources.
THE COLORADO TROLLS Victor and Breckenridge Price: Free
PAINT MINES INTERPRETIVE PARK
Rita the Rock Planter and Isak Heartstone are two famous Colorado trolls constructed by recycling artist and activist Thomas Dambo. Rita, who stands 21 feet tall, and Isak, who
29950 Paint Mines Rd., Calhan Price: Free entry and parking Paint Mines is one of El Paso County’s most
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FLORISSANT FOSSIL BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT 15807 Co. Rd. 1, Florissant Price: $10 per person
is elevated 800 feet above the city along a narrow razorback ride. The dramatic, steep, and guardrail-free views of the surrounding landscape features visible Cretaceous-era dinosaur tracks! TINY TOWN AND RAILROAD 6249 S. Turkey Creek Rd., Morrison Price: Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for kids age 2–12, and free for kids 2 and under Explore the child-sized, historic miniature village of Tiny Town before hopping on the train and riding around this unique attraction.
unique open spaces with colorful clays that were collected by American Indians to make paint. The brightly colored bands are found in varying amounts and you can also see geological formations including spires and hoodoos formed from erosion.
Beneath a grassy mountain valley in central Colorado lies one of the richest and most diverse fossil deposits in the world. Petrified redwood stumps up to 14 feet wide and thousands of detailed fossils of insects and plants reveal the story of a very different, prehistoric Colorado.
UFO WATCHTOWER Off Hwy 17, Hooper Price: $5 per person, kids under 6 get in free The UFO Watchtower invites
DEVIL’S SLIDE STRESTLES Rollins Pass Rd., Winter Park Price: Free
extraterrestrial seekers and curious minds to the watchtower for a chance to spot an alien or UFO for themselves. Allegedly, this location has hosted numerous UFO sightings over the years. CANYONS OF THE ANCIENTS NATIONAL MONUMENT Montezuma and Dolores counties Price: Free The Canyons of the Ancients protects a stunning cultural landscape with the highest known density of archaeological sites in the US. The Monument features more than 8,000 documented sites including villages, kivas, field houses, cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and ancient roadways. Price: Admission is free for ages 5 and under, $15 for ages 6–15 and 65–79, $30 for ages 16–64, and free for ages 80+ See hundreds of rescued reptiles including alligators, crocodiles, caiman, tortoises, and turtles. See albino alligators, and Morris the movie star alligator! You can even get hands- on experiences with the opportunity to pet, hold, and take pictures with a small alligator. COLORADO GATORS REPTILE PARK 9162 Lane 9 N., Mosca
Looking for a daring hike? Built in 1905 at an elevation of 11,600 feet on the edge of South Boulder Canyon in the Rockies, the Devil’s Slide Trestles cling to the side of a mountain with only oblivion between them and the waters of Middle Boulder Creek. INDIANA JONES HOME 502 Front St., Antonito Price: Free to see, prices vary to stay The Indiana Jones boyhood home, featured in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, is a real, historic Victorian house now operating as the Indiana Jones Bed & Breakfast.
SAUL THE STICKER BALL StickerGiant, 880 Weaver Park Rd., Longmont Price: Free
Weighing in at 231 pounds, the Guinness World Record-holding largest sticker ball was created 10 years ago for the first National Sticker Day. DOTSERO CRATER 2300 River Frontage Rd., Silt Price: Free Dotsero Crater, a 700-meter deep maar volcano, was Colorado’s only active volcano that erupted around 4,000 years ago. MEDANO CREEK 1199 Hwy 150, Mosca Price: Entrance fee starting at $25 per vehicle With the natural beach and a spring “surge flow” phenomenon, this seasonal stream at the base of the Great Sand Dunes National Park typically flows from April to July.
OLD GOLD CAMP ROAD TUNNELS Gold Camp Rd., Colorado Springs Price: Free
These historic, haunted, 19th-century railway tunnels are popular for hiking and biking in Pike National Forest.
B-17 BOMBER CRASH SITE West of Fort Collins/Bellevue in Roosevelt National Park Price: Free
Colorado’s Comanche Peak Wilderness Area might seem like an unexpected travel bucket list destination, but for wilderness hikers and World War II history buffs, it can’t be missed. Tucked away, this wilderness hides a hard trail leading to the rusted-out wreckage of a B-17 bomber.
RAINBOW FALLS West end of Manitou Springs, off Serpentine Dr. Price: $20 per vehicle
The Rainbow Falls Historic Site is a 50-foot waterfall featuring a short, round-trip easy hike. A popular attraction due to its chilled water and picturesque setting, there is also a unique bridge that passes over Rainbow Falls and Fountain Creek.
BISHOP CASTLE 12705 Hwy 165, Rye Price: Free
GNOME ROAD (ELF LANE) Nokomis Rd., Red Feather Lakes Price: Free
Nestled in the Wet Mountains of Colorado, just above 9,000 feet elevation, stands a marvel of its time: the world’s largest one- man project, The Bishop Castle.
NEVADAVILLE GHOST TOWN Nevadaville Rd., Central City Price: Free
This whimsical, quarter-mile dirt road is densely populated with hundreds of donated gnomes, fairy doors, and trinkets. This residential street offers a fairy-tale experience to encourage visitors of all ages to explore slowly. SKYLINE DRIVE Access from U.S. 50 on west side of Cañon City Price: Free A scenic, almost 3-mile, one-way paved road
ICE CAVES OF RIFLE MOUNTAIN PARK 13885 County Rd. 217, Rifle Price: Entry fee is $5 per vehicle
Love a ghost story or the eerie feeling of an empty town? Nevadaville is an extinct gold-mining town, with the community largely a ghost town. There are several original buildings and some graves, but if you’re in the mining mood, along the hillside above and below town are a few historic mines you can view from the road.
Don’t miss the ice palaces of glistening icicles as you explore the caves to see 20-foot icicles hanging from cave walls, turquoise waterfalls frozen in time.
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REMEMBERING MARRIAGE IN THE MIDDLE OF PARENTHOOD BY AMELIA ROESSLER
B ab ies are supposed to bring
couple to avoid conflict or tension after having a child.
during the early years, as well as work environments that don’t support new parents with paid leave, are also common challenges Brittain cites for parents. “I also see couples struggle with how to reconcile different parenting styles and philosophies,” Brittain says. “Parenting can also have a way of activating old trauma– if we aren’t aware of this it can show up in traumatized parenting, or difficulty staying regulated in the face of our kids’ dysregulation.” Social media is an idealized highlight reel of smiling parents with adorable babies. It’s a constant challenge figuring out what is true about what we’re consuming, and the same goes for parents. “The algorithm may be feeding someone Ballerina Farms-style mommy content in which a thin and beautiful woman is raising eight children while also managing to bake fresh bread daily and never has a hair out
couples closer. In reality, they often do the opposite—at least at first.
Nancy Brittain, LCSW and founder of Colorado Therapy Collective, says one of the most common experiences she hears is when a couple feels like roommates. “Even couples that feel they do a pretty good job of coparenting and managing their household worry that they are losing more of the romantic and intimate aspects of their relationship,” she explains. Another common challenge Brittain sees couples experience is the struggle to equitably share household and relationship labor. When one partner in the relationship is breastfeeding, there is inevitably a mismatch in the amount of time and energy spent in the early months, and she says it’s often difficult for couples to figure out how to balance it.
The transition of going from DINK (dual income, no kids) or DINKWAD (dual income, no kids, with a dog) to a family has today’s parents—often juggling careers, financial pressure, and limited support—feeling the strain in their relationship more than ever. This normal transition into parenthood, typically seen as a time of joy and optimism, could also be a time of significant strain for new parents. This can especially be felt in a relationship when your new roommate is cute, but moody with a powerful set of vocal chords. For the vast majority of couples, what psychologists call “protective” relationship factors—communication, intimacy, and time together—take a hit when a baby is born. Throw in sleep deprivation and financial anxiety and it can seem impossible for a
Sleep deprivation, general overwhelm, and a lack of a “village” to help support parents
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of place,” Brittain explains. “Or it may be feeding them ‘manosphere’ content of fathers bragging about never changing a diaper. Of course, the reality of this content is that there are many people behind the scenes supporting the family and the content is being carefully curated. So it’s important to keep in mind that whether it’s a professional content creator or a neighbor, what people put on social media is usually only one part of the story.” Brittain says the trick is to normalize that your relationship feels different and feels challenging, while also not surrendering to an inevitable drift and continuing to find ways to invest in the romantic relationship and turn toward each other. WORKING THROUGH IT To help couples better understand their conflicts, Brittain helps them understand the issues as arising from an interactional pattern instead of one or the other’s individual deficits, “so that they can work as a team to interrupt these patterns and communicate in a more direct and vulnerable way with each other.” When couples are able to do this, it signals to their nervous system that they are on the same team, and it helps both partners feel
more secure and able to access their best problem solving, resilience, and generally their best parenting selves, she adds. For helping couples have conversations about sharing household labor, Brittain recommends the Fair Play documentary and card “game” to help couples really think about all the labor in their relationships and family, both the visible tasks (like taking out the garbage) and the mental load (like making sure birthdays are special and kids are signed up for camps in time). “I encourage couples to find ways to prioritize both alone time to recharge, as well as time together without the kids. Easier said than done, but doing this before distance and disconnection take hold is easier than trying to recover later. You have a huge and important role as parents, but it’s also important to find ways to nurture the other parts of who you are—a friend, an athlete, a lover, a professional, etc.,” Brittain emphasizes. BEING PROACTIVE There are plenty of ways to be proactive and get ahead of the challenge. Try prioritizing sleep, giving each other the benefit of the doubt, working to be appreciative of the little things, starting a new hobby together, and even commiserating with each other. If
you know you’re not alone, it can be easier to cope with the situation.
If a couple is wondering when it’s a good time to discuss their relationship with the help of a therapist, Brittain says it’s never too early. “Even before becoming parents, establishing a relationship with a counselor that you trust, as well as getting a handle on any unhelpful communication patterns, can set you up for success when the stress of parenting gets added to the mix,” she explains. But if coparenting couples are stuck in repetitive cycles of conflict and are spending more time caught in defensiveness, criticism, and unproductive conflict rather than feeling connected, Brittain recommends finding a trained couples therapist to support establishing better communication and interrupting negative cycles. “The reality is that relationship satisfaction generally dips in the first few years of co- parenting—it’s a high stress, sleep-deprived time, and few of us have the community and family support we need,” says Brittain. So take a breath, check in, and remember: You aren’t in this alone.
FIND A SCHOOL 24/7
Search Colorado Parent ’s exclusive list of Denver’s schools anytime online. With an updated look and streamlined platform, our website is now faster, more engaging, and responsive on any device.
.COM
JUNE 2026 COLORADOPARENT.COM 17
What Kind of Dad Are You?
(And What Does That Mean for Your Kiddos?)
1. Your child spills milk all over the kitchen floor. You… A. Calmly hand them a towel and talk about being careful next time. B. Lecture them about responsibility. C. Laugh and say, “It happens!” and clean it yourself. BY AMANDA MILLER Not every dad shows up the same way, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. From rule- setters and playmakers to dads just trying to keep up, fatherhood comes in a lot of different styles. Grab a pen and take this light-hearted quiz to see which “dad type” you lean toward.
Tally Your Answers Did you get…
The Authoritative Dad Mostly A’s: Balanced, steady, emotionally available. Research from psychologist Diana Baumrind suggests this style is often linked to confident, resilient kids.
D. Don’t notice. You’re answering emails. E. Turn it into a slow-mo replay and make it a teachable moment about physics. 2. Bedtime at your house looks like… A. Consistent routine: bath, book, lights out. B. Strict lights-out, no exceptions. C. Negotiation central. One more book. One more hug. One more snack. D. “Wait, what time is it?” E. A dramatic reenactment of an episode of Bluey . 3. When your child is upset, you… A. Help them name the feeling and talk it through. B. Tell them to toughen up. C. Distract them with ice cream or a joke. D. Hope it blows over. E. Get on the floor and role-play the problem. 4. Your parenting motto is closest to: A. “Firm but loving.” B. “Respect authority.”
Mostly B’s: The Authoritarian Dad Structured and disciplined. Children may learn responsibility, but they may struggle to open up emotionally.
Mostly C’s: The Fun Dad High on warmth, low on rules. You’re beloved, but your consistency may need work.
Mostly Ds: The Overextended Dad Not absent, just stretched thin. This might be a season, not a personality. Burnout is real.
C. “Life’s short; have fun.” D. “I’m doing my best.” E. “Connection over control.”
5. Your ideal Saturday with the kids: A. Family hike and meaningful conversation. B. Practice, drills, productivity. C. Whatever they want to do. D. Catching up on work while they entertain themselves. E. Building forts, backyard adventures, or spontaneous road trips.
Mostly E’s: The Bluey Dad Playful, engaged, imaginative. You value emotional connection and aren’t afraid to be silly.
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things to do
Our Picks JUNE
1 GoPro Mountain Games A four-day festival celebrating sports, arts, and music. Spend the day watching exciting athletic events and engaging with art installations, then enjoy evenings full of concerts. June 4-7. Vail. mountaingames.com
PHOTO BY RICK LOHRE
JUNE 2026 COLORADOPARENT.COM 19
2
Colorado Renaissance Festival Those with the urge to travel back to the 16th century should make sure to include the Colora- do Renaissance Festival in their summer festival lineup. June 13 through August 2. 650 Perry Park Ave., Larkspur. coloradorenaissance.com
3
Ice Cream & Treats Festival The 6th Annual Ice Cream & Treats Festival includes over 12 local vendors serving samples! There will also be free activities for kids including games, challenges, and trivia. June 19 from 4-9pm. 201 E. 4th St., Loveland. downtownloveland.org
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Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
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Keystone Bacon & Bourbon Festival With loads of bacon and bacon-inspired cuisine at your fingertips, you won’t want to miss this weekend-long cele- bration of all things bacon and bour- bon. Kids of all ages will find all kinds of activities at Camp Bacon. June 27-28. River Run Events Plaza, Keystone. keystonefestivals.com
Take an awe-inspiring journey into the incomparable universe of Van Gogh. Explore his life, work, and his secrets through 360-degree digital projections, a VR experience, and a light and sound show. Runs through August. Lighthouse ArtSpace Denver, Denver. vangoghexpo.com/denver
PHOTO BY VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information. HEADS UP!
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Telluride Balloon Festival Watch hot air balloons lift off from Telluride Town Park and float effortlessly over the Telluride Valley. Don’t miss the Balloon Glow on Main Street on Saturday night. The flights will take place on Saturday and Sunday morning, weather permitting. June 5-7. Tellu- ride Town Park, Telluride. telluride.com Strawberry Days Step into the 129th Annual Strawberry Festival and enjoy the timeless tradition of free strawberries and ice cream, live music, family fun, and a colorful parade— all free to attend. June 19- 21. Glenwood Springs. glenwoodchamber.com
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Edgewater Music Festival Enjoy great music and food at the 29th annual Edgewater Music Festival! All proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity Metro Denver.
June 29. Citizens Park Pavilion, Edgewater. bluesnbbq.com
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Denver Chalk Art Festival For one weekend, more than 200 professional, amateur, and student artists trans- form the streets of Denver into a vibrant open-air gallery of chalk art inspired by the centuries-old Italian tradition of street painting. June 6-7. Golden Triangle Creative District, Denver. denverchalk.art
Denver Greek Festival Get ready to eat, drink, and dance like a Greek. Join for the 60th annual Denver Greek Festival, a family-friendly event with plenty to enjoy. Indulge in authentic Greek food while immersing yourself in the sounds of live Greek music and traditional dance entertainment. June 5-7. Assumption Greek Orthodox Cathe- dral, 4610 E. Alameda Ave., Denver. thegreekfestival.com 10
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Movies - Part II.” Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs. pikespeakcenter.com 5 Friday Denver Greek Festival Through June 7
Get ready to eat, drink, and dance like a Greek. Join for the 60th annual Denver Greek Festival, a family- friendly event with plenty to enjoy. Indulge in authentic Greek food while immersing yourself in the sounds of live Greek music and traditional dance entertainment. Assumption Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 4610 E.
Alameda Ave., Denver. thegreekfestival.com
~ Dillon Farmers Market 9am-2pm
Join one of Colorado’s largest outdoor markets every Friday through Sept. 25 as vendors offer Colorado produce,
Western Street Breakfast, June 17
cheeses, treats, and more. Town Park along Buffalo and LaBonte Streets, Dillon. townofdillon.com
~ = Free Events
1 Monday
weekday shopping experience! Shop fresh produce, local foodstuffs and handcrafted goods and listen to live tunes after work in the local beer garden featuring a variety of craft beverage offerings. 13th St. between Arapahoe Ave. and Caynon Blvd., Boulder. bcfm.org
followed by a splashy clean-off in the library sprinklers! Wear light/white clothes and bring sunglasses/goggles. Geroge Reynolds Branch, Boulder. boulderlibrary.org Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience Through August Take an awe-inspiring journey into the incomparable universe of Van Gogh. Explore his life, work, and his secrets through 360-degree digital projections, a VR experience, and a light and sound show. Lighthouse ArtSpace Denver, Denver. vangoghexpo.com/denver 2 Tuesday ~ Loveland West Farmers Market at JAX 9am-1pm The Loveland West Farmers Market takes place every Tuesday until November 3. They have over 40 NoCo vendors with vegetables, fruit, coffee, food, baked goods, and more. 2665 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland. facebook.com 3 Wednesday Denver Fringe Festival Through June 7 Denver’s favorite choose-your-own- adventure arts extravaganza is back for the seventh year with dozens of original shows including comedy, clown, theatre, dance, aerial, magic, immersive, and more. Denver Five Points and Rhino Arts District. denverfringe.org ~ Boulder County Farmers Market 3:30-7:30pm Beat the heat and save your weekends for the mountains with an evening,
~ First Friday Art Walk 5:30-9:30pm
Annual Colorado Governor’s Art Show & Sale Through June 6
Join for a late-night viewing of artwork at 100+ art galleries, artists’ studios, and creative businesses. 858 Santa Fe Drive, Denver. denversartdistrict.org/events ~ Telluride Balloon Festival Through June 7 Watch hot air balloons lift off from Telluride Town Park and float effortlessly over the Telluride Valley. Don’t miss the Balloon Glow on Main Street on Saturday night. The flights will take place on Saturday and Sunday morning, weather permitting. Telluride Town Park, Telluride. telluride.com 6 Saturday ~ Berthoud Day All day This annual celebration brings residents, businesses, and visitors together for a full day of family-fun, local pride, and hometown charm. The day kicks off with a lively parade through downtown followed by a vibrant festival in the park. Town Park, Berthoud. berthoudcolorado.com
The 35th annual show is a six-week exhibition exclusivelyu featuring Colorado artists. The exhibit will feature work from 65 of the state’s top fine artists, include 10 artists making their first appearance. eventvesta.com Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Through June 21 Join the next adventure and experience the wizarding world like never before. Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre, Denver. artscomplex.com Celebrate the start of summer with this community event for kids ages 2-10 and their families. Play yard games, sign up for Summer Library Adventures, and more! Broomfield Library and Auditorium, Broomfield. compass. broomfield.org ~ Summer of Discovery Kick-off Party: Magic & Color Splash 11am-1pm Start with a magical show, then head outside for colorful powder play- ~ Kids’ Summer Kickoff Party 10am-noon
Yo-Yo Ma with the Colorado Symphony 7:30pm
The Colorado Symphony, led by Music Director Peter Oundjian, is thrilled to announce that iconic cellist Yo-Yo Ma will join the orchestra for a spectacular outdoor performance you won’t want to
miss. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, Morrison. coloradosymphony.org 4 Thursday ~ GoPro Mountain Games Through June 7
Set in the heart of the Rockies, the GoPro Mountain Games return— where adventure sports, live music, art, and community collide. Vail. mountaingames.com
~ Pro Plan Dockdogs Outdoor Through June 7
~ Denver Chalk Art Festival Through June 7
Get ready to cheer as fluffy furballs take flight in pursuit of their favorite plush pals. Watch them leap, bound, and show off their aerial acrobatics all day long! Vail. mountaingames.com
For one weekend, more than 200 professional, amateur, and student artists transform the streets of Denver into a vibrant open-air gallery of chalk art inspired by the centuries-old Italian tradition of street painting. Golden Triangle Creative District, Denver. denverchalk.art Family Exploration Day 10am-2pm Celebrate Colorado’s 150th Anniversary
Neil DeGrasse Tyson Through June 5
Neil DeGrasse Tyson will be in Colorado Springs for two nights from June 4 to June 5. Night one show will be “Search For Life In The Universe” and night two will be “An Astrophysicist Goes To The
22 COLORADO PARENT JUNE 2026 VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
13 Saturday ~ 2026 Neurodiversity Resource Fair 10am-2pm Find connection, acceptance, and support from a community that truly gets it—while discovering resources
Jimmy Eat World w/ Sunny Day Real Estate 7pm See Jimmy Eat World on their 25th anniversary tour. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison. redrocksonline.com ~ K-Pop Demon Hunters Party 4-5pm Celebrate the movie while showing off dance skills, singing along to karaoke, and enjoying crafts and activities related to the movie. For 1st graders and older. Longmont Public Library, Longmont. longmontcolorado.gov 10 Wednesday ~ Family Game Night 5-6:30pm Join this monthly event for kids and their caregivers to connect and play games! Try classic games, find new favorites, and enjoy playful activities for all ages. Pizza will be provided. For families with kids ages five to eight. Sheridan Library, Denver. arapahoelibraries.bibliocommons.com
the farmers market, grab some unique snacks, or enjoy a full day of rides. 7007 E. 88th Ave., Henderson. milehighfleamarket.com ~ Urban Market at Union Station Noon-6pm Urban Markets at Union Station is Denver’s premier open-air marketplace, bringing together an exciting mix of local artists, makers, collectors, and small businesses offering an ever- changing selection of art, handmade crafts, antiques, clothing, jewelry, home décor, unique treasures, and more. Denver Union Station, Denver. denverunionstation.com 8 Monday Family Night Adventure 5:30-7pm Explore the Butterfly Pavilion exhibits Film on the Rocks: The Princess Bride 7pm Film on the Rocks showcases a curated slate of movies under the stars at the world’s most iconic outdoor venue, Red Rocks. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Morrison. denverfilm.org Toddlers explore and learn through hands-on activities that focus on creativity and fun. Imaginations run wild while building foundational skills. George Reynolds Library, Boulder. boulderlibrary.org 9 Tuesday Colorado Rockies vs. Chicago Cubs 6:40pm Watch professional baseball. Coors Field, Denver. mlb.com ~ Toddler Explorers 10:15-10:45am after hours with your family at unbeatable prices. Butterfly Pavilion, Westminster. butterflies.org
and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s 100th Anniversary with immersive historical exhibits and never-before-seen zoo artifacts from Spencer Penrose. Penrose Heritage Museum, 11 Lake Circle, Colorado Springs. peakradar.com Mumford & Sons will be at Folsom Field as part of their North America Tour promoting their new album, Prizefighter. Special guests are Sierra Ferrell and Dylan Gossett. Folsom Field, Boulder. app.cubuffs.com Mumford & Sons at Folsom Field 5pm ~ Taste of Louisville Summerfest 9am-3pm Free event with live music, a farmers market, craft market, car show, the Best of Taste awards, spaghetti eating contest, and more. Downtown Louisville. louisvillechamber.com 7 Sunday 43rd Annual Colorado Concours d’Elegance & Exotic Sports Car Show 9am-3pm The Colorado Concours d’Elegance & Exotic Sports Car Show will once again feature a sea of remarkable vehicles. With live music, food and vendors, this outdoor car show is fun for the whole family! Arapahoe Community College, Littleton. coloradoconcours.org
and having fun. Guiding Bright Minds, 4400 E. Iliff Ave., Denver. guidingbrightminds.com ~ Annual Philippine Festival 11am-6pm
Celebrate culture, community, and connection at the Annual Philippine Festival! Join for a vibrant weekend honoring Philippine heritage through performance, food, art, and community gathering. Filipino-America Community of Colorado, 1900 Harlan St., Lakewood. facebook.com
~ Bee-Yond Family Fun Event 10am-4pm
Get ready for a full day of non-stop fun including bounce houses, face painting, interactive booths, food trucks, a live DJ & family dance party, superhero meet- and-greets, and even a fun obstacle course experience kids will love. Memorial Park, 1605 E. Pikes Peak Ave., Colorado Springs. facebook.com Colorado Renaissance Festival Through August 2 Those with the urge to travel back to the 16th century should make sure to include the Colorado Renaissance Festival in their summer festival lineup. 650 Perry Park Ave., Larkspur. coloradorenaissance.com
~ Pages and Paws 3:45-4:45pm
Read with a licensed therapy dog and practice reading skills in a safe, non- judgmental environment. For ages 5-12. Registration required. Meadows Branch Library, Boulder. boulderlibrary.org 11 Thursday
Colorado Rockies vs. Milwaukee Brewers 1:10pm Watch professional baseball. Coors Field, Denver. mlb.com
~ Kid’s Day Craft Fair 10am-noon
~ Teen Summer Library Adventures Kickoff Party 2-4pm
Young historians are invited to explore the past through fun, interactive craft stations. Kids can visit a variety of booths where they’ll create history- themed crafts and learn about life in earlier times in an engaging, kid-friendly way. Philip and Jerry Miller Library, Castle Rock. crgov.com 16 Tuesday Kids’ Film Series: “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron” 10am-noon Cool off this summer with a cold drink, a bag of popcorn, and a great movie the whole family can enjoy. Longmont Museum, Longmont. longmontcolorado.gov 17 Wednesday Baby Goat Night 5-8pm About a dozen miniature goats of various ages and sizes will be there for pets and love. Hang out with the goats while recharging in the beer garden. There will also be multiple food trucks. New Terrain Brewing Co., Golden. newterrainbrewing.com
Celebrate the beginning of summer by discovering amazing prizes, playing games, making crafts, and signing up for the Summer Library Adventures reading and activity challenge. Help yourself to some pizza and enjoy the Make Your Own Ice Cream Sundae Station. For teens entering grades 6-12 in the Fall, ages 11-18. Broomfield Library, Broomfield. broomfield.org
Mile High Flea Market 7am-5pm Join for the biggest Flea Market in Colorado! With over 80 acres to explore, you can find anything from new appliances to vintage antiques. Visit
~ Outdoor Movie Nights 8:30pm
Outdoor movie nights are back for the summer! Featuring themed drinks, food specials, costume contests, and more fun stuff all summer long. The movie this week is Holes. Avanti Food & Beverage, Denver. avantifandb.com
12 Friday ~ Junktique Off-Main 10am-5pm
Boulder Garden Tour, June 27
This new monthly event is designed to give both shoppers and vendors more room, convenience, and opportunity. 650 S. Union St., Florence. junktiqueshowandmarket.com
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~ Western Street Breakfast 5:30-9am Bring the whole family to this fun street breakfast, where entry is free and breakfast is just $5 for pancakes, eggs, and sausage. Enjoy entertainment from Exit West & the Flying W Wranglers. Downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs. visitcos.com 18 Thursday Boulder Comedy Festival Through June 21 Nationally touring comics come together with local comedians to create a sea of hilarity in Boulder and the surrounding areas. Dairy Arts Center, Boulder. thedairy.org 19 Friday ~ Ice Cream & Treats Festival 4-9pm The 6th Annual Ice Cream & Treats Festival includes over 12 local vendors serving samples! There will also be free activities for kids including games, challenges, and trivia. 201 E. 4th St., Loveland. downtownloveland.org
Blues from the Top, June 26-28
PHOTO BY TYLER TOMASELLO
Colorado Rockies vs. Pittsburgh Pirates 1:10pm Watch professional baseball. Coors Field, Denver. mlb.com ~ Festival Park Farmers Market 9am-2pm Don’t miss locally raised meats, farm- fresh eggs, a variety of fresh produce, delicious baked goods, artisan-made products and more from dozens of vendors. Festival Park, Castle Rock. crgov.com ~ Flatiron Sounds Music Festival 1-8pm Mountains, live music, and a full day to celebrate Dad! Join for Chautauqua’s 3rd Annual Flatiron Sounds Music Festival featuring live music, food vendors, drinks, and an artisan market. Chautauqua Park, Boulder. chautauqua.com
~ “Revelry” Book Signing with Author J. Claire 6:30pm J. Claire will speak about and sign her book. Boulder Book Store, Boulder. boulderbookstore.net 24 Wednesday ~ Piñata Party 6-7pm Participants will learn how to make their own piñata to take home, and then they get a chance to break a piñata full of treats! Best for preschool through 5th graders. Longmont Public Library, Longmont. longmontcolorado.gov
~ Highlands Street Fair 10am-7pm
The 43rd annual Highlands Street Fair features live music, food from local restaurants, great shopping, and more. Along 32nd St. from Julian to
Perry, Denver. tppevents.com
~ Juneteenth Music Festival Noon-8pm
~ Strawberry Days Through June 21
Don’t miss the free street festival with a day-long celebration of freedom with live performances, vendors, food, and family-friendly activities. 2700 Welton St., Denver. juneteenthmusicfestival.com
Step into the 129th Annual Strawberry Festival and enjoy the timeless tradition of free strawberries and ice cream, live music, family fun, and a colorful parade—all free to attend. Glenwood Springs. glenwoodchamber.com
~ Third Saturdays Market at Chicken N Pickle 10am-2pm
Sensory Friendly Afternoon 3-5pm
During quiet afternoons, experience the exhibits in a unique way that meets the needs of your family. With natural lighting, quiet tones, and limited admission, this event provides an enjoyable, low-key experience just for them. Butterfly Pavilion, Westminster. butterflies.org
20 Saturday Edgewater Music Festival 2-10pm
Join for the Elevate Markets Summer Series at Chicken N Pickle! Experience a fun and vibrant morning filled with local vendors, great food, drinks, and amazing community vibes. Chicken N Pickle, 14225 Lincoln St., Thornton. elevateevendorevents.com 21 Sunday
Low Sensory Mornings 8:30-10am
Enjoy great music and food at the 29th annual Edgewater Music Festival! All proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity Metro Denver. Citizens Park Pavilion, Edgewater. bluesnbbq.com
For people with autism or sensory processing disorders, the Aquarium Exhibits can be a bit overwhelming. Low sensory mornings feature turned-down ambient sounds and a calmer, quieter setting. Downtown Aquarium, Denver. aquariumrestaurants.com 22 Monday Colorado Rockies vs. Boston Red Sox 6:40pm Watch professional baseball. Coors Field, Denver. mlb.com 23 Tuesday ~ Family Movies at the Rialto 2-4pm Join the Kid’s Summer Movie Club for kids ages 2-16 and watch Night at the Museum. Rialto Theater, Loveland. rialtotheatercenter.org
~ Storytime at Waneka Lake Park 11-11:30am
Families are invited to join every Wednesday in June and July for storytime with activities at the playground at Waneka Lake Park. 1600 Caria Dr., Lafayette. lafayettepubliclibrary.libcal.com 25 Thursday ~ Concerts in the Park 6:30pm-midnight
Mile High Flea Market, weekends
Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts bring forth new energy to music fans who love the heroes and outlaws of old. They drive their sound with blazing guitars and a rock n roll attitude. Recommended for lovers of both classic country and 70’s rock n roll. Clement Park Skatepark, Littleton. visitlittleton.org
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