Family Fun Night at UM Natural History Museum

This Friday Night spend a Night at the Museum specifically a Fun Friday Night The University of Michigan Natural History Museum (1109 Geddes Ave, Ann Arbor).  On Friday April 10, the museum will be open until 8:00 p.m. so the entire family can enjoy experiencing all the museum has to offer. This free event includes storytime, cow eyeball dissections, the Planetarium and fun activities. The entire event is free however donations are accepted. For planetarium shows at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., there is a $3 cost. Each show is 30 minutes long. Tickets can be purchased the night of the event at the Museum Gift Shop.

Be sure to arrive early as some activities have limited space. The Fun Friday Night includes:

• Planetarium shows at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m
• Storytime at 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. (limited to 36 people)
• Free demonstrations
• Dinosaur tour at 7:00 p.m. (limited to 15 people)

Spring Break Activities for Kids: Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti

There may be some questions on Phil's "spring" prediction however,
your kids and teens still have plenty of Spring Break activities!

Many schools in the area are having spring break after Easter. Unfortunately the list of activities and events seems to be a bit short this year. Below is an events listing, day-by-day, to keep your kids and teens happy and busy throughout spring break and their week off school.

Events that happen all week include Spring Break events at the Ypsilanti District Library (229 West Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti) from 2:00-3:00 p.m. and daily activities at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens.

If more activities are found, they will be added to the post. Have you heard about something fun to do on spring break? Be sure to comment below!

Monday, April 6:
10:00 a.m.: Is it spring yet? The Matthaei Botanical Gardens wants you to figure that out. Kids can grab their parents and an activity backpack to go on a self-guided hunt for signs of spring. Scavenger hunt sheets, magnifying lenses, and twig and bud detective guides will help children investigate signs of spring.  This is a free event!

2:00 p.m.: Spring Break Fun (YDL-Michigan) Kids can stop in everyday for a fun craft or activity. K-5 Activity.

2:00 p.m.: Secret Agent Training Center at the AADL. This free event is intended for grades K - 8. Find out what it takes to be a spy at Super Secret Spy School. Kids will learn techniques and strategies employed by the sneakiest of spies for carrying secrets, mastering disguises, and writing in code.

6:00 p.m.: Spring Break Matinees at the Ypsilanti District Library (Whitaker Rd.) - Free movies.  All ages are welcome and there will be free popcorn! Movies:  Sleeping Beauty

6:30 p.m.: Spring Break @ the Library (YDL Michigan Branch) Celebrate National Poetry month! Bring your rhymes to the Teen Zone and add your lyrics to the beat. Hosted by ADB. Free teen event.

7:00 p.m.: Felt Ball Fun Teen Event and youth (grade K and up). Spend time with local crafter Beth Battey as she leads a hands-on workshop to make a felt ball. Start with colorful wool roving, add warm water, a little soap and some patience, and you get a fun felt ball! Felt balls can be toys for kids and pets, jewelry, a garland or a fun decoration!

Tuesday, April 7:
10:00 a.m.: The Power of Nature - A Make Way for Spring program for kids at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Children and their parents invited to celebrate World Health Day with self-guided activities that tap into the power of nature. Free; self-guided.

11:00 a.m.: Spring Break @ the Library (YDL Michigan Branch) Put your creativity to work over Spring Break and make a graphic novel with Casey Dixon. Brainstorm a story, layout your ideas on storyboard, get tips and improve your drawing. This program runs Tuesday-Thursday. Free teen event.

1:00 p.m.: 3-D Flower Art at the AADL. Kids will make gorgeous 3-D flowers to decorate your space or give as gifts.

2:00 p.m.: Spring Break Fun (YDL-Michigan) Kids can stop in everyday for a fun craft or activity.

6:00 p.m.: Spring Break Matinees at the Ypsilanti District Library (Whitaker Rd.) - Free movies. All ages are welcome and there will be free popcorn! Movies:  Maleficent

7:00 p.m.: Polymer Clay Pinwheel Earrings Teen Event (grades 6+). Head to the Library and make a pair of fun, one-of-a-kind earrings.

Wednesday, April 8:
10:00 a.m.: Eco-Kids - A Make Way for Spring program at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Children accompanied by a parent will learn how to turn table scraps into soil through composting and make paper from recycled newsprint.  $5.00/child includes activities and materials. A Make Way for Spring school break activity.

2:00 p.m.: Spring Break Fun (YDL-Michigan) Kids can stop in everyday for a fun craft or activity.

2:00 p.m.: Pokemon Showdown at AADL. This free event is intended for grades 6 - 12. Are you walking around with a head full of Pokemon knowledge? Pokemon Showdown is the ultimate Pokemon battle simulator - and there's no need to catch 'em all!

2:00 p.m.: Caped Crusaders. Kids (grades K-5) will make a one-of-a-kind super hero cape. We’ll show you how.

6:00 p.m.: Spring Break @ the Library (YDL Michigan Branch) Teens can make a glass bead wind chime. Free teen event.

6:00 p.m.: Spring Break Matinees at the Ypsilanti District Library (Whitaker Rd.) - Free movies. All ages are welcome and there will be free popcorn! Movies:  Big Hero 6


Thursday, April 9:
10:00 a.m. Native Beauties - A Make Way for Spring program at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Children accompanied by a parent will learn what makes a plant native and how it can be used in the garden  $5.00/child includes activities and materials. A Make Way for Spring school break program.

1:00 p.m.: Make a pencil crossbow at the AADL. Kids (grades K-5) will use household materials to learn a little about how crossbows work.

2:00 p.m.: Spring Break Fun (YDL-Michigan) Kids can stop in everyday for a fun craft or activity.

6:00 p.m.: Spring Break Matinees at the Ypsilanti District Library (Whitaker Rd.) - Free movies. All ages are welcome and there will be free popcorn! Movies:  Boxtrolls

7:00 p.m.: Teen Event - Make Studded Cuff Bracelets at the AADL. Teens in grades (6+) will make something shiney for their wrist - studded cuff bracelets!


Friday, April 10:

10:00 a.m.: Conservation Station - A Make Way for Spring program at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. On a guided tour children accompanied by a parent will explore the trails and wetlands at Matthaei Botanical Gardens and discover ways to become stewards of the land. (Rainy day alternative: Michigan ecosystems games.)  $8.00/child includes materials and activities. A Make Way for Spring school break program.

1:00 p.m.: Button Bonanza at the AADL. Kids in grades K-5 will make fun button crafts including button flower rings.

2:00 p.m.: Spring Break Fun (YDL-Michigan) Kids can stop in everyday for a fun craft or activity.

Meet the United States Air Force Thunderbirds This Friday

This Friday morning, the Yankee Air Museum has a special opportunity for you and your student (3rd-12th grade) to attend a special educational program with the United States Air Force Thunderbirds.  Members from the flight team will be at the Museum to give a career talk about what it takes to be a USAF Thunderbird. 

The program is Friday August 8, 2014 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Doors to the Museum open at 8:00 a.m. Participants are asked to please be at the museum no later than 8:30 a.m. This will allow for the chance for photographs and autographs with team, however we cannot promise that everyone will get that chance as we have to adhere to the USAF Thunderbirds Team Schedule.

If you plan on attending, please reply to rachel.krumwiede@yankeeairmuseum.org with your first and last name and number of guests in your party. 

Game Start Festival

This Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. your kids and teens (students in grades 3-8) can learn about making games. Do you know any future game-makers? Then attending the free event by GameStart at Menlo Innovations (505 East Liberty LL500, Ann Arbor, MI 48104).

GameStart is an organization that offers classes using games to inspire interest in art, math, science, and programming. For their event on March 1st, they'll have games to play and give a preview of their upcoming classes for this year, including: Game Mechanics and Design, Minecraft Programming, Computer Animation, and Video Editing.

Other organizations attending the event include the Ann Arbor District Library, along with other guests from the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, Maker Works, Backyard Brains, AHA. Be sure to Stop in to check things out.

For those not available early in the day, GameStart will also be offering a free class on Storytelling with Computer Animation at the downtown AADL at 3:00-5:00 p.m.

The Call of The Wild: Big Read for Big Fun at The Henry Ford

On Saturday, March 8 at 11:00 a.m., The Henry Ford will host The Big Read in the museum’s Prechter Promenade and Anderson Theater. During this free event, visitors will get a free copy of the Jack London classic The Call of the Wild plus enjoy a make and take activity for the kids!

Get a free copy of The Call of the Wild,
enjoy kids activities and more
during the Big Read at The Henry Ford.

Some highlights for this year's event include a dramatic reading from the book by the Players Guild of Dearborn, a screening of The Gold Rush with Charlie Chaplin, a winter camping display by the Boy Scouts, and a photo opportunity with a real dog sled and prospector’s gear.

The Big Read is a 10 week literary adventure that provides children, teens and adults to discover Jack London’s The Call of the Wild. The Big Read is a grant program from the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest, designed to revitalize the role of literature in American culture and to encourage citizens to read for pleasure and enlightenment. 

The Call of the Wild program runs March 8-17. Families will have opportunities to discover the themes of The Call of the Wild through movies, book discussions, art activities, lectures, a photo contest and more. We love the visiting The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village - This sounds like a perfect reason to go and visit again!

Kids Pottery Classes & Camps @ The Michigan Art Center

For a creative outlet less than 30 minutes from Ann Arbor, be sure to take your kids to the Michigan Art Center (32129 Block St., Garden City) for some pottery fun - It looks like they have a full list of kids pottery classes and summer camp programming worth looking into!

Their kids & teens pottery summer camp offerings provide youth the opportunity to participate in half-day camps (9:00 a.m. - noon) or weekly courses. Learn the basics of clay, learn to use a wheel creating something for your garden, home or as decorative decor. The programs, mostly for kids in grades 4-8, provide many options to choose from, helping your teen stay busy whether they are enjoying their half day camps or summer pottery classes. Classes on the flier include a Wheel Throwing Camp, a Kids & Clay Camp, a Garden Pottery Course or Youth Clay Works Course.

Prices range from $135-165. For more information or to check out more details on their kids summer courses, be sure to visit the MAC online or by calling 734.266.3500. You can also find the Michigan Art Center on Facebook or Twitter.

Weekend Events Round-Up: April 20-22

Earth Day weekend is almost upon us. There sure is a lot going on around Ann Arbor for kids, teens and tots too! It kind of makes my head spin actually! We'll be busy with the first weekend of soccer and the Washtenaw Elementary Science Olympiad (Go Team South Arbor Charter Academy!). We'll probably also hit a few of the local Ann Arbor Earth Day celebrations, especially Sunday at the Leslie Science and Nature Center.

What do you have on the books for the weekend? Have any plans already penciled into the planner? Here's the weekend round-up, chocked full of suggestions for your weekend fun with the kids!

Friday, April 20

• 2:00 p.m. Watch The Boy in the Striped Pajamas at the Dexter District Library (3255 Alpine St., Dexter).
• 4:00 p.m. Teens can make their own t-shirt bracelet at the Dexter District Library (3255 Alpine St., Dexter). This free event for teens in grades 5-12 requires preregistration. Please bring an old t-shirt to recycle too!

The free movie this weekend is Happy Feet Two at the Quality 16.

Saturday, April 21

• Take the family to check out a free movie! See Happy Feet Two during the Free Movie weekend at local Quality Theatres, Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.
• 10:00 a.m. Your preschooler (age 1-5) will get a kick out of celebrating Earth Day at the Leslie Science and Nature Center (1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor) planting seeds in a recycled container. The children will also enjoy a unique story time session and live animals or nature exploration. The program is only $2 per child.
• 10:30 a.m. Earth Day Mobileat the Ypsilanti District Library.
• 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Help salute Earth Day and learn about ways to promote a sustainable environment with the treat trail at Whole Foods (3135 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor). Kids will follow an interactive treasure trail, hunting for the answers. All participants will receive a free treasure bag of treats. Bring a pen or pencil to help you collect your answers.
• 1:00 p.m. The kids will have fabulous fun with body paint during a free Michael’s Craft’s (3655 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor) Make-it, Take-it event.
• 1:00-4:00 p.m. Teen Drawing Lab at the Ann Arbor District (343 S. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor). Teens in grade 6+ will learn to draw the human hand during this free art program, there will even be a hand model on site to “lend a hand”.
• 2:00-3:30 p.m. Make a Tin Can Herb Garden at the Ypsilanti District Library (8975 MacArthur Blvd., Superior Township). Kids ages 7-18 can plant their own herb garden for eats all summer long! 

The whole family is sure to find a fun
activity to celebration Earth Day  in Ann Arbor.

Sunday, April 22

• Take the family to check out a free movie! See Happy Feet Two during the Free Movie weekend at local Quality Theatres, Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.
• Noon-4:00 p.m. Earth Day celebration at the Leslie Scienceand Nature Center (1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor).
• 1:00-3:00 p.m.  Kids ages 3+ can decorate a trendy tote for Earth Day at Michael’s Crafts (3655 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor). This is a free craft event while supplies last.
• 1:30 p.m. Kids 12 and under can see the movie Charlotte’s Web free at the Michigan Theater (603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor) during their Family-Friendly Film Series.
• 2:00-4:00 p.m. Know what a geodesic dome is? Come help build one at the Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti).

100th Aniversary of the Titanic Sinking

For a glance at history be sure to visit the Titanic artifact exhibit at the
Henry Ford, March 31-September 30, 2012

As a strange coincidence, this year my 8 year old son decided his Pinewood Derby Car would be a ship, specifically the Titanic. At first I though, "Great now I have to help him build a ship car." but later realized that this would be an awesome opportunity for me to teach him about a bit of history and possibly encourage him to read!

We've since pulled books from the library and read some online. I'm so excited to be taking him to the Titanic Exhibit at the Henry Ford to see too. He's probably a bit on the young side, however I know he'd enjoy it! Many years ago I went to the exhibit with my grandparents and loved all of the history it had to offer. (I'll make sure to write a review of the exhibit after we go too!)

As an added bonus, there is even an opportunity for my son to meet an actual shipwreck survivor as the Ann Arbor District Library hosts a Titanic Centennial Event on Monday April 16 at 7:00 p.m., when Pierette Domenica Simpson returns to AADL to share her personal and harrowing account of the 1956 collision of the SS Andrea Doria and the MS Stockholm.

And of course Icould always take my son to see the re-release of the Titanic movie in April.

So for those of you history buffs, April 2012 is an amazing time to introduce your youth and teens to a tragic historical event in a  that may never be possible again. I highly encourage the Titanic exhibit at the Henry Ford and look forward to your comments about area events you attended!

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum’s Physicspalooza

This weekend, March 31-April 1, the Ann Arbor Hands on Museum (220 East Ann St., Ann Arbor) is hosting Physicspalooza. Youth and teens that avisit will learn about motion, gravity, light and magnetic power as well as using electromagnets to pick up paperclips and make rainbows with prisms. You'll even get to make and play with flubber! All the wonderful things to do, while exploring all of the aspects of physics.
The event Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., and Sunday, noon - 4:00 p.m. will be free with regular admission to the museum ($10 for ages two and up). For more information about the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum’s Physicspalooza,visit: http://www.aahom.org/events/whats_new/.

Kids Only Bookclub

Want you child to read more? What about improving their reading comprehension? Then consider having your child join an area "Kids Book Club". Luckily the area offers several to choose from for the beginning reader through to the very experienced teens! Check out the many choices available to your child.

At the Ypsilanti District Library (229 West Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti), kids in grades 3-5 will meet at 7:00 p.m. one Tuesday each month for a snack and discussion. The free event does require registration though 482-4110 x1390.

Kids Book Club Dates:

• A Long Way from Chicago (1/17)
• The BFG (2/21)
• The Borrowers (3/20)
• The Dark Stair (4/17)
• The Homework Machine (5/15)

For young men that enjoy fantasy stories, the Boys Fantasy Book Club at the Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti) might be the place to start. From 7:00-8:00 p.m. your son will talk about a favorite book that's been chosen just for him.

Fantasty Book Club Dates:

• Thursday, January 19
• Thursday, February 16
• Thursday, March 15
• Thursday, April 19

Is your teen an extreme reader sucking down countless books? Why not enroll in the eXtreme Readers Book Club. At 6:00 p.m., teens and adults will explore themes of race and class through contemporary teen fiction at the Ypsilanti District Library (229 West Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti).


Upcoming titles:

• When Kambia Elaine Flew in from Nepture (1/18)
• One Day It Will All Make Sense (2/15)
• 47 (3/21)
• Bronxwood (4/18)
• Street Pharm (5/16)

For the beginning reader, the Book Buddies program might be a better fit. School aged children will meet at 2:00-3:00 p.m. to discuss selected books, enjoy a craft, and have a small snack. Registration for this YDL Whittaker event is required however by calling 482-4110 ext.1340.


Kids Book Groups Dates:

• Saturday, January 28
• Saturday, February 25
• Saturday, March 24
• Saturday, April 21
• Saturday, May 19

Your young teen has a group of their own too with the Tween Book Club at Ypsilanti District Library (229 West Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti). Tweens ages 10-13 will get together at 7:00 p.m. to read and discuss books of your choice. At the first meeting we will discuss The Giver and vote on books YOU want to read for future meetings. Don't forget to register though!


Tween book Club Dates:

• Tuesday, January 31
• Tuesday, February 28
• Tuesday, March 27
• Tuesday, April 24
• Tuesday, May 29

With all of these great book clubs available to the kids, it will surely be a busy winter!

826Michigan Ann Arbor Tutoring & Writing Center

You wouldn't know it by walking by the sign on the door, but tucked inside Ann Arbor's Liberty Street Robot Supply & Repair (115 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor) is 826Michigan, a tutoring facility that helps students with their creative writing skills. Being a mom with a student that is struggling to read and write, the thing that grabbed my attention (aside from the fun products they sent to my home) was that Monday through Thursday, 3:30-5:30 p.m. students age 6-18 can drop in for free homework assistance! That's right FREE tutoring for children.

The programs that 826michigan offer one-on-one student attention that challenges and inspires each child so that the foundation for success can be established and built upon. However none of this would be possible without funding, so all of the sales proceeds from the front of the business, the Liberty Street Robot Supply & Repair go directly toward supporting 826michigan programs.

So the next time you are looking for that unique gift or just hoping to shop local in Ann Arbor, be sure to stop by the Liberty Street Robot Supply & Repair. You'll support a greater cause while shopping locally. Not in Ann Arbor, don't worry, you can also buy gifts and supplies from the Liberty Street Robot Supply & Repair online store!

Liberty Street Robot Supply & Repair

115 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor

M-F 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. & Sat. 12:00-8:00 p.m.

For adults that have writing aspirations, another way that 826michigan receives funding is from nighttime and weekend writing workshops and seminars for adults.

Gingerbread House Contest at the Ypsilanti District Library

When stopping by the Ypsilanti District Library the other day I noticed that they are going to have a Gingerbread House Contest this year. I grabbed the flier and brought it home. It wasn't until my daughter brought the flier to my attention this morning that I remembered the contest, and was reminded that I wanted to share the details with my Ann Arbor Mom readers! Since it will take a little planning, I thought to get the details out sooner rather than later too.

Building it or tearing it down, creating a gingerbread house can be a lot of fun.
Let your kids enter the YDL Gingerbread House Contest this year!

On December 3 2011, the Ypsilanti District Library will be hosting a Gingerbread House Contest awarding winners from several age categories including children (Age 5-8), kids (Age 9-12), teens (Age 13-17) and adults 18 and up. Why not help your kids create and decorate a unique gingerbread structure, or encourage your older child or teen to create their own structure, then bring it to the YDL-Whittaker by 2 p.m. on December 3 for entry into the contest.

Then from December 3-13, visit the library to view all of the beautiful and creative entries, and votes on the best of the best designs.  

For a contest entry form and rules, visit the library or the YDL Gingerbread House Contest page. Let your kids use their imagination, get creative, and mostly just let them have fun. My kids have already decided they MUST enter the contest, and even I find it appealing. Will your kids or you enter the contest?

Weekend Events Round-Up: September 16-18

Fall can be the perfect time to capture a family moment, be sure
to take advantage out the many photo opts in the area
during the wonderful weekend weather!

We're going to have a beautiful fall weekend in lower Michigan, which is the perfect time to hit the many cider mills, orchards and u-pick places around town, for the younger set, consider hitting Jenny's Farm Stand for some fun, or even Wiards! If that doesn't sound fun, there are several free teen events, some for pre-school and the toddler set and even more for the rest of the family, so be sure to plan your weekend in Ann Arbor with kids wisely - You won't be disappointed!

Friday, September 16:

• Kid's ages 5+ can become a scientist and make your own "Bouncy Ball" at 3:00-6:00 p.m. at Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) for only $1!
• Slip into your jammies, bring a favorite stuffed animal and perhaps a blanket to enjoy bedtime storytime at the Ypsilanti District Library (229 W. Michigan Ave.,
  Ypsilanti)  at 7:00 p.m. Milk and cookies will be served after the free event.

Saturday, September 17:

• Check out the free movies at the local Goodrich Theatres Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 and 10:00 a.m.  This week's movie is "better than the average bear" - er - is Yogi Bear! Don't forget your pic-a-nik basket for snack time fun during the intermission. (Really just head to the concession stand, not sure my channeling Yogi Bear in text is really working!)
• Preschoolers can become a pirate during the Pre-School Pirate Party at Ypsilanti District Library(5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti) from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Climb aboard to set sail for high-seas adventure and crafts.
• Children ages 4-7 will enjoy Storytime at the University of Michigan Museum of Art (525 S. State St., Ann Arbor) at 11:00 a.m. Listen to a story that will bring art to life then stay to visit the galleries with mom and dad.
• Mathnasium Ann Arbor (2111 Packard Rd, Ann Arbor) is celebrating Math Month by hosting a an Open House with Free pizza, math games and plenty of fun from 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Teens can stop by the Ann Arbor District Library (3333 Traverwood Dr., Ann Arbor)
  for a Locker Makeover craft 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. to create cool stuff to organize, decorate and fix up your locker. Free teen event for kids in grades 6 – 12.
• Older kids and teens will enjoy attending the Amigurumi Crochet Craft at Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti) 2:00-4:00 p.m. This free event if for teens and older kids ages 12-19, registration however is required by calling 482-4110 ext. 1326. Create
  small Japanese creatures (a cupcake or octopus called a crocheted “Amigurumi.” (I need to be loaned a teen, this sounds like a really fun, free activity!)

Sunday, September 18:

• Dancing babies? What? Find out what it's all about during Dancing Babies with Aron Kaufman at Ann Arbor District Library (2359 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor). On Sunday from 1:00-1:40 p.m. toddlers to age 5 can jam with Aron Kaufman, in a program of music and movement.
• The entire family can enjoy Bug Fest at 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Leslie Science and Nature Center (1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor). Celebrate bugs, beetles, butterflies and more as we search, sweep, dip and dig into the incredible world of insects. Participants will search for insects and arthropods, learn how to classify and identify common insects in our area, and get an up close look at insects under our video microscope. Pre-registration can net a discount admission rate, however tickets are available at the door $8/ person or $30 for the entire family.
• What about taking the family out for a slow hike on the Prairie? The Prairie Hike at Independence Lake Park at 2:00 p.m. that is!

Weekend Events Round-Up: August 13-15

Make your weekend eventful by attending one (or more) of the great events happening around Ann Arbor. Here is a quick events round up!
Friday, August 12:

• Kids ages 4+ can create their own Sunflower Paintings at Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) 2:00-5:00 p.m. for only $2.
• Check out a Waterloo Area Farm Museum (2611 Plymouth Rd., Grass Lake) Weekend Tour running throughout the weekend 1:00-5:00 p.m. Museum tour fees are $5 for adults and $2 for children aged 5-12. Guided tours of the ten-room farmhouse, log cabin, barns, blacksmith and woodworking workshop, bake house, ice house, milk cellar, and windmill.
• The Wayne County Fair (10871 Quirk Rd., Belleville) is happening through tomorrow. Find rides, fair food, animals, music, exhibits and more to explore.

Saturday, August 13:

• Teens (Grades 6-12) should plan on attending a free workshop at the Ann Arbor District Library (343 S. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor) called Geek Academy III - Game Programming with Scratch at 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m. Teens will discover a way to get started making their own digital games.
• The circus is in town! The Kelly Miller Circus will have shows at the Lake Shore Apartments (2117 Lakeview Dr., Ypsilanti) at 2:00 and 5:30 p.m. Advance ticket prices are $10.00 per adult, Kid tickets (11 and under) $6.00 On show day (at the door) tickets are $15.00 per adult and $7.00 per kid (11 and under). Advance tickets can be purchased at Aachen Auto at 2280 E. Michigan Ave. or Keybank west Michigan Ave. branch. Come over at 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. to see the elephants help raise the Circus Big Top for FREE.
• Create your own Aboriginal Dot Painting at Tree Town Toys 3:30–4:30 p.m. for only $2. This project is geared for kids at least 6 years old.

Sunday, August 14:

• Create a cute Plant Pal at Tree Town Toys 2:00-4:30 p.m. with a homemade type Chia Pet. kids older than 3 can have fun creating their own creature from just a sprinkling of seeds, a bit of sun, and a few drops of patience. Cost $1.

Cedar Point: For the Big Kid in You!

I mentioned a few days ago the media tour of Northwest Ohio I participated in, what I hadn't gotten to yet though, was mentioning the third day of our tour - a day at Cedar Point!

Even as a Cedar Point alumni
the park never gets old. There is
something special about a perfect
summer day in the park!

As Michael and I are both Cedar Point alumni, we knew about the many great aspects of the point. Sadly though we haven't visited since we got married 10 years ago. So this was an excellent opportunity to catch up with the best of Cedar Point with it's 17 roller coasters and thrill rides!

I'll have to admit, I'll never experience a day at Cedar Point like this again, and I am now officially spoiled. When we arrived at the park, we were greeted by a marketing intern Ainsley, who spent the day walking the park with us, taking us from ride to ride. She took us to the front of the line for any ride we wanted to experience. That's right, first row baby!

I suppose some might say we began the day rather gently, warming up on Cedar Point's newest ride, Windseeker. It provided a great view of the entire park though, and made is seem as though we were flying. After a gentle warm up though, we hit the blacktop hard, walking over 5 miles hitting Blue Streak, Corkscrew,  Mantis, Top Thrill Dragster, Millennium Force, Gemini, Maverick, Mean Streak, Raptor, Magnum XL-200, Iron Dragon and Disaster Transport. Riding the rides as a 40-something is a much different experience and one that I highly recommend to any "big kid" at heart.

Cedar Point still has classic coasters and for
speed deamons, they have the tallest and
fastest out there too! (photo courtesy
of Cedar Point)

We did take a short lunch break, at Pink’s too (as in the legendary Los Angeles Pink's Hot Dogs). Cedar Point has the first Pink's franchise East of Las Vegas. It was nice allowing our dogs to stop barking for a brief moment before hitting the pavement, and most importantly it was air conditioned!  I'm just glad we rode the Top Thrill Dragster BEFORE lunch!

It was kind of odd in some ways walking the park. I found myself saying "Hey isn't that where ____ ride used to be?" And of course the theatre I performed in was torn down years ago to make way for a large water ride. Not seeing the theatre remains a bittersweet experience. I was however pleasantly surprised at the changes we were experiencing as well as the way that Cedar Point has maintained so much of the park. It's amazing at what growth they can experience in such a tight space!

The park has an amazing assortment of rides, shows and a large kids area that includes pint-size rides just for them. The kids attractions were actually more prevelant than I remembered, or maybe it was just that I had never taken kids before.. My mom actually meet us down there in the morning, bringing the kids to experience the day with us. They did enjoy the day, and my son got to ride his first big coaster (7 actually) however, (and this is the part I would like to keep quiet) I think I might have enjoyed the day more without them. I will admit though, I think I enjoyed karaoke with the Peanuts gang at the Camp Snoopy Theatre more than they did.

My daughter's wee stature of less than 46" means she was more limited by ride selection; it was pretty warm and muggy that day and there is a lot of walking for one with such short legs. We did however allow the kids full-reign of the park for their own experience after departing the media tour. An experience they fully enjoyed!

A new Cedar Point fan is born!

After walking the park with the kids, I would recommend that families with small children spend more than a single day at the park. This might cost a bit more, but would save volumes in sanity. Stay the night on property in Camper Village, at Lighthouse Point (I'd like to check THAT out for our next adventure) or in an of the resort property hotels. This would allow the children to refresh and enjoy the beach, Soak City, or Challenge Park as well as gain early entry into the park and all that Cedar Point has to offer pint size clientele.

Our day spent exploring Cedar Point was one of those perfect summer days, one we're hoping to repeat many times in seasons to come. A day that I would highly recommend for kids of all ages and sizes. Don't be ashamed if you leave the kids at home and enjoy the day at Cedar Point alone with your significant other - I'm not sure the kids wouldn't be able to read the excitement on your faces though!

D.I.Ypsi Indie Art Fair This Weekend

Newsflash:

Get the kid's creative juices flowing before the school year begins by taking them to the D.I.Ypsi art fair (36 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti) this Saturday, August 13 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. in Depot Town. Check out unique local artists with a flair for a "Do it yourself" attitude or shop for early holiday gifts.

Weekend Activities August 5-7

It's time for the weekend event round up of Ann Arbor activities for families. I hope that you find something to do, we'll be at the Family Campout at Rolling Hills among other things!

 

Friday, August 5:

• Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) has two free music classes - Find one for 3-5 year olds at 10:30 a.m. and one for 6-8 year olds at 1:00 p.m.
• Kids ages 9+ can also create a house out of recycled cardboard at tree Town Toys for $2.00.
• The Dexter District Library is bringing their Summer Reading Program Grand to a Finale with Bev Meyer "The Music Lady" at 11:00 a.m. followed by refreshments and balloon animals.
• The Saline Summerfest begins on Friday and runs through Saturday.

Saturday, August 6:

• Find lots to do at the Saline Summerfest!
• Jo-Ann Fabric stores has two free Make-It, Take-It demonstrations. At 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. create a Cricut machine bookmark, or from 3:00-5:00 p.m. kids and teens ages 12+ can get creative with a Tulip Body Art Face & Body Paint Make It-Take It event!
• In the area of Tree Town Toys? Stop in to get your child their very own free color-in tattoo anytime throughout the day.
• 
  From 2:00-4:00 p.m. Ann Arbor families can Celebrate National Clown Week with an afternoon of informal face painting and balloon sculpture, followed by a high-energy gardening variety show presented by Clowns Around Redford at the Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti)
• Learn about the Korean martial art Tae Kwon Do, with a free demonstration and discussion at the Ypsilanti District Library (229 West Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti) from 2:00-3:00 p.m.

Sunday, August 7:

• Kids ages 4+ can decorate a wooden birdhouse for only $4 at Tree Town Toys. All paint and embellishments are included, which will save your house the mess!

Weekend Events for Families: $1 Movies, Dinosaurs, Crafts and More

Don't let the rain and heat get you down this weekend as there is plenty tyo do for the kids! Keep them busy with many crafting opportunities while keeping the mess out of your home, see a discouted movie, or pop in to see the Teen Graffitti at the Ann Arbor District Library or the events at Maker Fair at The Henry Ford. There are lots of great activities to see and do!

 

Friday:

• Create Paper Bag Gargoyles at the Ann Arbor District Library (3333 Traverwood Dr., Ann Arbor) from 2:00-3:00 p.m. For Grades K – 5.
•  Stop by Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) anytime until 6:00 p.m. to create sunflower paintings for only $2.  
•  As part of the Discount Summer Film Series, see Gnomeo & Juliet at Michigan Theatre (124 N. Mechanic St., Jackson) at 2:00 or 6:30 p.m. This is a $1 movie deal!
• Teens should check out the cool graffitti created by other teenagers at the AADL Teen Graffitti Art Exhibit!

Saturday:

• Maker Faire Detroit is at the Henry Ford (20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn) this weekend (Saturday & Sunday). Kids of all ages will especially enjoy the Mentos guys, signing fish car, robots, and a lifesize Mousetrap!
• Your child can continue their Passport to Fun at Michael's (3655 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor) cebrating Brazil 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• Ever heard of tie dye flowers? Find out how to make your own with this free craft at Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) 1:30-5:30 p.m.
• Teens and older kids can get their hands dirty with a hands-on comics workshop at the Ann Arbor District Library (3090 E. Eisenhower Pky, Ann Arbor) 2:00-4:30 p.m. Grade 6 and up.
•  Find out "Who’s Been in My Backyard?" at Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti) 2:00-3:00 p.m. Kids ages 7-12 can learn to identify common wildlife by their tracks and their scat (using fake scat).

Sunday:

• Don't forget about Maker Faire Detroit (20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn), it's today too!
• Create a custom Tin Treasure Box at Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) 1:00-5:00 p.m. for only $2!

Weekly Event Round-Up

Independence Day is past us and the kids are beginning to get on our nerves? OK maybe that's just me and our household. I am however still looking for free kids activities!  Here are several this week that should be brought to the attention of frustrated parents throughout Ann Arbor.


In honor of the final Harry Potter movie coming out this week,
try your hand  at playing a Muggle version of Quidditch
this Friday at the Ypsilanti District Library!

Start tonight be getting squeaky clean, or at least let your kids and tens create their own felt ball. The technique requires warm water and soap, so at least they'll be clean from the elbows down.

At 7:00 p.m. at the Ann Arbor District Library - Mallets Creek Branch (3090 E. Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor) kids and teens can create wool felted balls to make a string of beads or a pet toy for a furry friend. For more information, call the Youth Department at 327-8301.

Tuesday also promises fun with the Rave Free Family Film Festival (4100 Carpenter Rd., Ypsilanti) when the family sees Marmaduke at 10:00 a.m. The free movie festival is every Tuesday and Wednesday for two chances at fun.

The AADL Pittsfield Branch (2359 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor) has a fun activity for teens. Kids in grade 6 and up, can sew a colorful pocket for their iPod or MP3 player using colorful felt, embellishment items, and embroidery thread. All supplies are provided free.

Keep the fun rolling mid-week by learning to make root beer Wednesday at the Ypsilanti District Library's Wacky Wednesday program. From 3:00-4:30 pm at the Whittaker Branch (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti) kids can join in on the fun making their own sudsy head of root beer to enjoy. Families might also want to consider watching a bit of magic when Jeff Wawrzaszek visits the AADL Pittsfield Branch at 2:00 p.m. or the Traverwood Branch (3333 Traverwood Dr, Ann Arbor) at 7:00 p.m.

Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) is also a great resource for free craft activities for the kids (as well as many at a very low cost!) and the "Draw a Framed Masterpiece" event from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. is no exception. Kids can choose from 12 different frame designs to create a masterpiece using crayons, markers, or stamps.

If outdoor skills are what you are looking for (or if you are a scouting family as I have) then head over to the AADL Mallets Creek Branch (3090 East Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor) of the library for Outdoor Survival Training 101 With Bivouac. From 7:00-8:30 p.m. learn about emergency basics for camping, hiking or exploring out in the wild. Maybe it will even help your child earn a scouting elective!

Rounding out the week on Thursday at 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the YDL-Whittaker enjoy a free art session courtesy of the FLY Children's Art Center or create a paper bag puppet at Tree Town Toys 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Then wrap up the week by watching a Magic Carpet Theatre performance at the Dexter District Library at 11:00 a.m. or by participating on a Muggle version of Quidditch 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the YDL-Whittaker branch - Just remember to arrive on time to be assigned to a house/team.

Whatever your choice, there are many great free events this week in and around Ann Arbor! Be sure to comment on your favorites area activities too, it helps me know what to blog about.

Weekend: Free Events in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Chelsea for the Whole Family

You know that the seasons are changing when there are so many great family events in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and surrounding areas, that creating a list of events creates a book!

What kid wouldn't enjoy spending a day viewing butterflies at the
Butterfly Festival at University of Michigan
Exhibit Museum of Natural History? 

So get out and enjoy the many great free events happening this weekend:

Friday, May 20:

Start your weekend off right by exercising your lungs. Do you like to sing? What about singing doo-wop? In honor of Michigan week, families can perform Motown karaoke music with your singing buddies at the Ypsilanti District Library (229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti) 3:00-5:30 p.m. Two mikes will be available so everyone can participate; parents can sing with their kids, teens can sing with their friends, bring your best doo-wop buddy and we’ll entertain each other.

Saturday, May 21:

Learning to fly is in the air as families join in on International Learn-to-Fly Day at Ann Arbor Municipal Airport (801 Airport Dr., Ann Arbor) 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Find free open house events that include toys on hand for kids, planes on display, and a lunchtime cookout - with the best burgers on the field. Elsewhere at the airport will be an ice cream truck, and presentations on the history of aviation.

International Learn-To-Fly Day promises to be great
fun for the entire family, not just those
interested in aviation!

The weather is going to be perfect for butterfly viewing at the Butterfly Festival at University of Michigan Exhibit Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. This free event lets the family explore the beautiful and fascinating world of butterflies in the butterfly sanctuary enjoying their full life cycles! The kids can even use microscopes to see what butterfly and moth wings are really made of! Then head over to Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) to create a customized Winged Wonders from 1:00-3:00 p.m. all you need to do is fold a bit here, twist a bit there, and voilá, you have a gorgeous butterfly to hang around the house or in your child’s room! This free craft is best for the budding butterfly enthusiasts ages 4 and up.
Maybe you just want to cool down before the day even begins? Then I suggest you take the kidd-o’s to the Kids Jazz Jam at Chelsea District Library (221 S. Main St., Chelsea) at 10:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. to enjoy a jazz story, songs and improvisation in this lively workshop with Chelsea Center for the Arts’ music instructor Tara Vesprini. This is a free event however there is a limit of 20 children (ages 3-6)per session, so please pre-register online through the Chelsea District Library website.

Everyone wants a healthier lifestyle for the family, so bring them to the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day at Ypsilanti High School (2095 Packard Rd., Ypsilanti) from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The free event encourages kids and their parents to get active with activities such as a fun run, Zumba for kids, sports games, healthy snacks, family yoga and a soccer clinic with the University of Michigan’s Women’s Soccer Team at 11:00 a.m.

Stop by the Touch-A-Truck event at the Briarwood Mall
Saturday 9:00 a.m. - noon

Do you have a budding chef in your midst? Then by all means let them participate in the Cook Michigan Cooking Contest at Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti). Your child or teen age 6 and older can drop off their drop off their dish (Made with Michigan grown or Made in Michigan ingredients) at any YDL location by 1:00 p.m. to be entered into the contest. For information and a full list of the rules, visit the Ypsilanti District Library website.

Sunday, May 22:

This free event is really for mom and dad, however they can create a fun end-of-the-school-year memory for a child at the “Make-It Take-It” event at Michael’s Crafts (3655 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor). Have a blast making a 3D customized keepsake while taking a short break from the kids 1:00-3:00 p.m.