Children

Dear Wedding Planner,

Do you have any suggestions for what we can do to keep our kids busy during the wedding? We have never been to Vermont before and are unsure if there are activities available there that are wholesome and educational for our children.

- Matronly in Missouri

Dear Matronly,

Weddings are a time of celebration for everyone including the little ones! But sometimes our tiny bundles of joy can get in the way of our own fun. Therefore, I have made a list of possible activities that are seasonal, educational and will help you children immerse themselves in the culture of the Green Mountain State. For any child under six, these five activities will be a veritable barrel of monkeys!!

1. Sheep wrangling - The Kanes are well known for their agility with sheep. Michael can show the kids how to throw a ram for distance and Linda can demonstrate the finer points of tucking a ewe under each armpit for warmth.

2. Jell-O wrestling - naked or in bathing suits, depending on weather. This is a time honored VT tradition. Really!

3. Hand-made fireworks - Sadly, in much of the world children are no longer allowed to make fireworks. Unjust laws have outlawed this ancient craft in many states, but not VT. Hey kids, let's combine a fuse, some explosives and a handful of lovely maple leaves and we'll have a display that will light up the chilly VT evening!

4. Shooting range - Don't worry, gun shy parents -not handguns! Just rifles. In Vermont shooting is not just a sport, it is a lifestyle so, please don't take this activity lightly- make sure to get your kids a NRA sticker for their car seat BEFORE we lock and load.

5. The Northeast Kingdom has a thriving arts community with many musical and theater options even in small towns. In Burke, the local Children's Theater offers free acting workshops for kids. The weekend of the 23rd, 5 and unders will be performing the Vagina Monologues.

Last, there is always the option of leaving your child at a kennel. Hope this helps!

-The Wedding Planner