Ypsilanti Soccer Camp For Only $12/Week

1/2 day Soccer Camps in Ypsilanti for only $12/week.

Driving down Textile tonight I couldn't help but notice the sign that read "Community Soccer Camp." As a parent of two active soccer players I thought to check out the details. The program, run by the South Side Baptist Church is offering two one-week half-day soccer programs for children and teens.

The program runs June 10-14 or June 17-21 with soccer camps for children 5-8 and a tween/teen soccer camp for ages 9-13. What I really liked seeing though, was that they are offering the program to community participants for only $12 per child for the entire week! Yes you read that right, that's TWELVE dollars per participant. In addition to the soccer skills camp, each child gets a t-shirt and end of the week awards.

For details on the camp and to sign up, visit the SSBT website, call 734-482-4122 or email soccer@ssbtonline.org. 

2013 Community Soccer Camps 
6710 Textile Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197
June 10-14 - Ages 5-8: 9:00-11:30 a.m. / Ages 9-13: 1:00-3:30 p.m.
June 17-21 - Ages 9-13: 9:00-11:30 a.m. /Ages 5-8: 1:00-3:30 p.m.

Mathnasium of Saline Opens

Mathnasium of Saline provides math tutoring and homework help to area youth and teens.

Two years ago I was proud to be able to help promote Mathnasium Ann Arbor's grand opening. Vera and Grace were wonderful ladies to meet and my children loved attending free events they hosted as well as math tutoring. It's so wonderful to hear now that the ladies are able to open a second location.

Mathnasium of Saline will open it's doors next week, providing area kids math tutoring and homework help. Even if your child does not need math tutoring, the facility can help boost your child's math skills even further. Be sure to stop in and check it out, they are sure to offer some exceptional grand opening deals for interested parents.

Mathnasium of Saline
7025 E. Michigan Ave., Saline MI
(734) 480-8188
saline@mathnasium.com
Hours:  3:30-6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Weekend Events Round-up: May 31-June 2

This weekend offers Ann Arbor area families several fun opportunities with two local festivals. The first, a family carnival at the Burning Bush Church (770 James L. Hart Pkwy., Ypsilanti) offers all day ride armbands for $20, while offering the typical fair food and entertainment. I noticed the following $3 fair discount coupon when I stopped into the Girl Scout office yesterday too. The family carnival happens now through June 9. Hours this weekend are Friday 5:00 p.m.-midnight, Saturday noon-midnight and Sunday 3:00-10:00 p.m.

Get $3 off an unlimited ride armband for the Ypsilanti Family Carnival. Discount good on Thursday, June 6.

If adding a bit of culture to your outing is a goal, then the 7th annual Ya’ssoo Greek Festival (109 Scio Church Rd., Ann Arbor ) Weekend hours are Friday 11:00 a.m.-midnight; Saturday 11:00 a.m.-midnight; and Sunday from noon-6 p.m. The festival featuring Greek cuisine, live music and entertainment, dancing, a spectacular marketplace, and the Hellenic Cultural Exhibit. The festival offers free admission for children 12 and under and discount admission after 4:00 p.m. Friday and 1:00 p.m. Saturday. Sunday offers free admission for everyone.

Did that give you any ideas for the weekend? If not, there are certainly a few more ideas for events and activities around town. Check out this full list of things to do with the kids in and around Ann Arbor this weekend!

Friday, May 31:

If the weather doesn't cooperate, head to the Goldfish Swim School (2107 W Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor) for their family swim event 6:30-8:00 p.m. Current families swim free however the event is open to the public for swimmers too for $5 a swimmer or $15 for the entire family!

The Milan Community Fair happens this weekend, may 30 through June 1. TFriday night though, enjoy their spectacular fireworks display at dusk. I have been told the Milan fireworks is an exceptional show too! I am assuming there is a rain date in case of inclement weather however that information isn't found on their website.

Saturday, June 1:

A few weeks ago I listed the many great summer reading programs. Barnes & Noble (3235 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor) is kicking off their Summer Reading Program at 10:00 a.m. storytelling, free crafts for kids, pictures with Beauty from The Singing Princess Entertainment, and a sing-a-long. Stop in to pick up some great summer reading for your kids and stay to check out this fun event! THAT'S an incentive worth bragging about.

Would you rather hang outside on Saturday? Then spend the day 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Cedar Lake Outdoor Center (2500 Pierce Rd., Chelsea). A variety of fun-filled, educational activities will be available for all ages including duck and goose calling demonstrations, archery, small caliber shooting, waterfowl biology and habitat exhibits, dog demonstrations, field first aid, and waterfowl identification. Your outdoor-loving-child or scout will love this free event!

The Peony Festival and sale happens tomorrow at the Matthai Botanical Gardens, but the kids can get into the action too. From noon-2:00 p.m. there are free kids crafts next to the Reader Center with free Children's Peony Bingo happening all day!

For the family that loves local history, why not take a tour of Sharon Mills? Visit the historic building along the River Raisin and learn about its varied history. The free tours happen at 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Want to get up-close and personal with the raptors at the Leslie Science & Nature Center (1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor)? Today would be a great day to do that while experiencing a feeding!  Saturdays throughout June, from  1:00-3:00 p.m. stop in to see how a bird's feet and beak work together to help them eat. Volunteers will be feeding the birds and answering your questions.

Spend the afternoon hiking in the Kosch Headwaters Preserve with Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation.  See what is growing, look for wildflowers and ferns, and “tune into” the birds and other animals of the forest. This is a free event at 2:00-4:00 p.m. Dress for the weather and being outdoors.

If your kids are interested in learning more about gardening, then perhaps they could help plant the annual learning garden at the Ypsilanti District Library (Superior). Kids will get dirty digging in the soil 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Does your teen enjoy music? Then "LIVE on Washington" is just the event for them.  From 2:00-10:0 p.m., check out the teen outdoor music festival in the 300 block of E. Washington (between 5th and Division St.) for music and entertainment, art, a giant slide, and the ever present food vendors. This is a free teen event.

Sunday, June 2:

If critters are your child's "thing" then stepping into the Critter House at the Leslie Science and Nature Center would be an excellent experience. From noon-3:00 p.m. Sundays throughout June, come in to observe frogs, turtles, snakes, rabbits, and as they hop, crawl, and slither in their homes! Spending time at the Critter House is an excellent way to get up close and personal with many of Mother Nature's friends while helping your child develop an appreciation for the natural world.

The Saline Rec Center is hosting a free family fun daynoon-6:00 p.m. Stop in for summer discounts or some free eats. Families can also try out a fitness class, play on the new Pirate Ship or to receive a free child ID kit.

Kids Zumbatomic Summer Camp Classes

Last week my daughter tried out the free kids Zumba and Yoga class at Peachy Fitness. I even conned a neighbor into letting me borrow her daughter for the evening! Both girls really enjoyed the class, especially the kids Zumba part. That's why I was really excited to finally receive the information today about the upcoming class.

Starting June 19 and running through July 19 (There will be no classes the week of July 4 to accommodate vacations!), Peachy Fitness offers kids Zumbatomic and yoga on Wednesday and Friday nights from 6:00-7:00 p.m. The class, coined the Peachy Fitness Kids Summer Camp, offers boys and girls ages 4-12 a chance for some exceptional exercise and an outlet for their boundless energy. The 8-class program is only $59 (through June 7) and after that only costs $69 - That's just a little more that $8/class. The biggest bonus is that a parent can join in the fun for ONLY $20 for the entire session! That's $2 a class for some fun with your child!

Kids Zumbatomic & Yoga
Summer Camp Special
Wednesday & Friday 6:00-7:0 p.m.
June 19-July 12
Ann Arbor Taekwondo
2739 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor

Want a chance to win a free 8-class package? From now until June 14, enter to win by e-mailing info@peachyfitness.com or by commenting on the Peachy Fitness Facebook page! Make sure to tell them that the Ann Arbor Mom blog sent you.

Superhero & Princess Party

Kids ages 4-8 may enjoy participating in the Superhero and Princess Party sponsored by the Ann Arbor Senior Center on June 22nd or August 3rd. From 1:00-3:00 p.m. play activities and games, go for a treasure hunt, get temporary tattoos, get a mini make-up session or become a junior crime stopper. After enjoy a special snack with Cinderella and Spiderman and participate in a "red-carpet" costume show.

Pre-register for this fun event  at the Ann Arbor Senior Center (1320 Baldwin Ave., Ann Arbor) Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The cost for participation is $30/child.

The Addams Family at the Fox Theatre: Win Tickets!

Win tickets to see The Addams Family in Detroit with The Ann Arbor Mom!

Patrick D. Kennedy (Pugsley), Pippa Pearthree (Grandma), Sara Gettelfinger (Morticia), Douglas Sills (Gomez), Tom Corbeil (Lurch), Cortney Wolfson (Wednesday) and Blake Hammond (Uncle Fester) in THE ADDAMS FAMILY.
Photo by Jeremy Daniel

Take dad to see the national tour of the new musical THE ADDAMS FAMILY to celebrate Father's Day. The new musical, based on the bizarre family of characters created by Charles Addams, will make its Detroit premiere Friday, June 14 and Saturday, June 15 at the Fox Theatre. Ticket prices range from $30-70 and are on sale now at OlympiaEntertainment.com, the Fox Theatre and Joe Louis Arena box offices, Hockeytown Authentics in Troy and at Ticketmaster.com.

The Addams Family musical features an original spooky story (a father’s worst nightmare really) where Wednesday Addams falls in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. A man her parents have never met! Now, Gomez Addams must do something he's never done before - keep Wednesday's secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday's "normal" boyfriend and his parents.

Want to win tickets to see the show?  In the comments below tell me how your dad (or husband) is like Gomez Addams. A winning entry will be randomly drawn from all entries received by June 7 for a free Family 4 Pack of Tickets to The Addams Family in Detroit on June 14 at 8:0 p.m.


Does dad like to Tango (dance works)? Does he have a fondness for creepy things? Does he have odd children? Does one of his closest family members have freakishly long hair? You get my drift, just tell me how dad is like Gomez Addams and you may win the FREE tickets!

For more information, visit www.theaddamsfamilymusicaltour.com. Detroit performances are Friday, June 14 ( 8:00 p.m.) and  Saturday, June 15 (2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m.).

Kids Entertainment at the Cobblestone Farm Farmers Market

There is no denying that I really love gardening. I love to involve the kids to. This year we're even going to commit to planting a Foodgatherers Row For the Hungry. That's one reason why I appreciated getting a press release from the nice folks at Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation about the Farmers Market at Cobblestone Farm (2781 Packard Rd., Ann Arbor) each Tuesday afternoon.

Certainly one could argue that it is just another Ann Arbor Farmers Market, however the market is set up to be kid-friendly, offering entertainment even! So make sure to stop over Tuesday's from 4:00-7:00 p.m. You'll find amazing produce and your kids can have a little fun too on the beautiful, historic grounds!

Schedule - June

June 4: Kids Drum Circle (4:30-5:00), local kiddie-rock singer/songwriter Mister Laurence and his Play Money Band (5:00-6:00), acoustic trio, Inkflo (6:00-7:00).

June 11: Kids Drum Circle (4:30-5:00), West African drumming group, Arbor Foli (6:00-7:00).

June 18: AADL Children's Librarian and storyteller Laura Raynor (4:00-4:30), Kids Drum Circle (4:30-5:00), folk duo Anne Erlewine and Chris Good (5:00-6:00), popular music trio Griff Griffin (6:00-7:00).

June 25: Storytelling by A2 Storytelling Guild's Beverly Black (4:00-4:30), Kids Drum Circle (4:30-5:00), Japanese flute by Bob Rama (5:00-6:00), jazz guitarist Stephen Ragsdale (6:00-7:00), free bicycle maintenance/repair stand, Common Cycle (6:00-7:00).

Ann Arbor Summer Splash Days

Ann Arbor pool Splash Days off free activities for the kids with
paid admission. It's a great way to spend an afternoon.

Want to have some cool summer fun this year? Then Splash Days in Ann Arbor is the way to go!

On select days 2:00-4:00 p.m. throughout the summer, your kids can enjoy fun-filled activities in and out of the water at three Ann Arbor pools - Imagine spending the afternoon of special games, contests and prizes. All activities and prizes are FREE with the cost of pool admission.

Dates of Summer 2013 Splash Days are:

Buhr Park Pool 
2751 Packard St, Ann Arbor

June 15, July 13 and August 10

Fuller Park Pool

1519 Fuller Rd, Ann Arbor

June 22, July 20 and August 17

Veterans Memorial Pool

2150 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor

June 29, July 27 and August 24

As soon as the official flier is available I will add it to the post!

Weekend Events Round-up: May 24-27

Enjoy this holiday weekend in one of the many Ann Arbor pools, grilling,
watching fireworks or hanging with the family - No matter what there is
plenty to do with the kids in Ann Arbor!

Hello Ann Arbor families and welcome to the unofficial start to summer this weekend. Of course waking up this morning you might doubt that, but I assure you it's true. The weather will turn for the better soon. Very soon!

Of course it is Memorial Day weekend, I posted several holiday specific events that will honor local veterans. My family will actually be at Highland Cemetery tomorrow placing flags on the graves of veterans as well as marching in the Ypsilanti Memorial Day Parade Monday. Otherwise we'll be seeing family and working in the garden! What will your family do?

Want to start the summer with a festival? The Sumpter Township Country Fest at the fairgrounds (23501 Sumpter Rd., Belleville) started last night and will run through Monday. Your entire family will find free children's entertainment, bingo, pony rides a petting zoo,  several pageants, a car show, live music carnival rides, crafts and a demolition derby!!! But wait there is more. The first official fireworks also happen Sunday night. And of course most local pools including Rolling Hills Waterpark, open this weekend. I've heard too that the Compuware drive-in is also open for a sneak-peek weekend.

Check out this full list of activities and events to do with the kids in and around Ann Arbor!

Friday, May 24:

Start the weekend off with a little exercise and fun with FREE a kids Zumba & Yoga Class at 6:00 p.m.

Saturday, May 25:

The weather should be perfect to get outdoors for classic cars at the Ann Arbor City Club(1830 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor)  From noon to 4:00 p.m. see a great collection of classic, sporty, unusual and rare collectible cars, trucks, motorcycles.

Families that play with science together, stay together - or at least they are never bored! Lear about the Evolution of Whales at the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. during a free hands-on program.  Discover how paleontologists study fossils and make a cast of an archaic Dorudon whale tooth. This free event is perfect for kids ages 5+ explores everything about whales. Make sure to stay the entire day and take advantage of the free dinosaur tours at 2:00-2:30 or see a planetarium show!

Make a felt heart at the FLY Studio (40 N. Huron, Ypsilanti) from 2:00-4:00 p.m. -For just $10, kids  6+ cal join fiber artist Amanda Cinco Hoyt of FreshCut Textiles to learn felting techniques and art. Registration is requested at flyartcenter.org.

High school teens might find Science & Skeptics at the Ann Arbor District Library (Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room) cool. Stop in and check things out from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.  Learn how scientists provide explanations about the world and universe as the Ann Arbor Science & Skeptics present their second annual Scientists Fair.

Gaming kids might enjoy a Wii Sports Resort Team Tourney for at the AADL (Malletts Creek Branch: Program Room AB) form 1:00-4:00 p.m. - Play your way through the Resort's twelve awesome games. Prizes for the winners! This event is for all ages.

Sunday, May 26:

Here's one more chance to learn about the Evolution of Whales at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) 3:00 p.m.or the free dinosaur tours!

If you didn't get to Saturday's Wii Tourney fear not. Kids may also experience whizzing down the Wii race-track with a Mario Kart Tournament for all ages. From 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the AADL (Malletts Creek Branch: Program Room AB) participate in a Mario Kart Wii Tournament for kids, teens and adults!

Toddlers will enjoy getting their toes tapping at “Tiny Toes" Dance With Morgan Grubola at Ann Arbor District Library (343 S. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor) at 1:00-1:40 p.m. Infants and children up to age 5 years will enjoy a creative movement class.

Grab a blanket (or two) and bundle up for Fireworks at  Sumpter Township Fairgrounds (23501 Sumpter Rd., Belleville)  at dusk. It's a great way to start summer while remembering our veterans.

Family Fun Under the Stars, With the Stars at the Drive In!

Admit it, now that school is out for the summer you are looking for fun activities for the family? Maybe you are searching for new family activities and experiences - Maybe old favorites. No matter which though, it has got to be something great for the entire family, and it can't break the bank! So how about taking the family to a drive-in theatre?

We're lucky I suppose, my kids enjoy the drive in theatre each summer when we visit my great aunt and uncle near Honor Michigan.  They love the oldies playing before the show, the snack bar, the swingsets and even the putt putt course right next to the big screen. I have many fond memories of my parents taking my brother and I to the drive in theatres too!

Unfortunately there aren't many true drive in theatres in the area left, however many are emerging from the parking lots of otherwise unoccupied event venues. Ann Arbor families are even blessed with one that is within a short 20-minute drive in Plymouth Michigan!

At the Compuware Arena, movies can be seen under the stars June 7 through September 1 (with sneak peek weekends in May). That is a movie under the stars seven days a week! That's right, any night parents can be found enjoying a game of frisbee and a picnic basket before the show on the big screen. Prices are reasonable with children under age 3 free and children ages 4-12 costing only $6 each; adult admission $9; student admission $7 with valid I.D.! There are special dinner and a movie packages for families available for those budget friendly evenings!

Check it out - Should make for lasting family memories for years to come!

Tour The Rentschler Farm & Saline Railroad Depot Museums

Every Saturday throughout the summer May through early December, your entire family can tour the Rentschler Farm (1265 E. Michigan Ave., Saline) and Saline Railroad Depot Museums. From 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. your family can explore the farm and it's man outbuildings, check in on the resident farm animals including young lambs and their ewes, as well as baby pigs and view a brief presentation about the farm. Appointments may also be made for larger tour groups by calling 734-769-2219.

My family toured the farm a few years ago late in November. It was a nice way to break up the weekend while seeing a beautiful local historical attraction.

Want to know more before you go, check out the 10-minute Podcast telling about the farm, and including an interview with Warren Rentschler at Rentschler Farm Podcast.

Free Kids Zumba & Yoga Class Plus Win a $20 Gift Card

Want a chance to win a $20 Gift Card that can be used towards a Kids Zumba and Yoga class? You are in luck. The folks at Peachy Fitness have given me another great give-away opportunity to one Ann Arbor Mom blog fan. All you have to do is to tell me why your kid would love to take a Zumba class! Want a second opportunity to win? Make sure to comment on the Ann Arbor Mom Facebook Post too. The winner will be chosen at random by  all entries received by midnight Thursday, May 23.  The gift card can be used towards the current Peachy Fitness Mother/Daughter special or any of the other packages they offer.

Your child can even try-it-before-you-buy-it with a free kids class this Friday! At 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24 at the Ann Arbor Taekwondo (2739 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) your child can take a free Zubma & yoga class at the Peachy Fitness Open House. Visitors will even have the chance to win prizes by attending the open house or by watching closely on the Peachy Fitness Facebook Page. As another note, kids classes are for boys and girls - I know my kids are anxious to try things out, are yours?

Weekend Events Round-up: May 17-19

It seems this weekend will hold something from everyone - from Legos, to teen events, to  a family dance to theater productions. My family will be tied up with soccer on Saturday and on Sunday my Daisy Troop will deliver pet food they purchased from Girl Scout cookie profits to the Humane Society of Huron Valley. In other words it will be a very busy weekend.

Do you have any grand plans for the family this weekend?  If not you might consider attending The Ann Arbor Civic Theatre production of Anne of Green Gables at the Gardens at Matthaei Botanical Gardens (1800 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor). There are many times to see the play too. On Saturday, see it at 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., or 4:00 p.m., and on  Sunday showtimes are 1:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m.

Admission for the show is $5/children; $8/adults with  tickets available at the door.  This performance is appropriate for children age 4+.

This weekend see Ann of Green Gables at at the
Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Maybe a weekend of science is better for your family? If so then check out Professor Ray’s Everyday Science of "Good Vibes" at Ann Arbor Hands On Museum (220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor). Shows are at 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. and are free with paid admission to the museum.  Kids will get a chance to experiment with sound vibrations and hear strange sounds made with common objects.

So what are your weekend plans? It's time to fill up that planner...

Saturday, May 18

Start the morning with a 7:30 a.m. bird hike at Hudson Mills Metropark (8801 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter). For only $5 adult/$3 child your family can explore observing observe bird species seen in the park. Preregistration is required by calling 1-800-47-PARKS. If you have them, please bring your binoculars and a field guide too - The early bird catches the worm!

Want to explore a nicely wooded area? Then be sure to walk the Flatwoods at the Oakwoods (Huron-Clinton) Metropark with Ron Gamble, Vice President of the Huron Valley chapter of Michigan Botanical Club. Participants will explore the mature flatwoods and observe soil character that differentiates this habitat from other floodplain forests and swamp. Footing should be stable, however wear shoes/boots that can get wet/muddy as this will include off-trail hiking. Meet at the Nature Center in Oakwoods Metropark at 9:30 a.m.

Are you a new parent or a parent with a child transitioning from a car seat to a booster seat? Then this is for you. Be sure to check out the free car seat check during the Children's Health Fair at Vineyard Church (2275 Platt Rd., Ann Arbor). The free event happens 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Find free car seat checks, health and safety information, free kids crafts and snacks.

Your creative child might get a kick out of the Grange Junior Makers program at the Pittsfield Grange  (3337 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd., Ann Arbor). On the third Saturday of each month at 10:00 am - noon kids can build something new and exciting. The monthly program allows kids with adults to build projects in electronics, robotics and wood. This month's project is Stitch-and-build boat-building where kids will make a miniature version of a kayak and learn techniques to build a full size boat! 

2013 Ann Arbor Juggling Arts Festival at Wide World Sports Center (2140 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor) 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The 2013 Ann Arbor Juggling Arts Festival is open to everyone, both jugglers and non jugglers. We have free lessons for anyone who wants to learn. Additionally, we will have: games, lessons, workshops, prop vendors, open juggling, and lots of fun.

Be sure to take your Lego maniac to LEGO Day at Learning Express Ann Arbor (2465 W Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor) at 10:00 a.m. - noon. The day, a free LEGO Chima event will highlight the New LEGO Chima Speedors with an obstacle course and racing area. A 3:00 p.m. LEGO Minifig trading session will follow the event.

For more science events, families should make sure not to miss the Evolution of Whales at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. This free hands-on program for kids ages 5+ explores everything about whales. Discover how paleontologists study fossils and make a cast of an archaic Dorudon whale tooth! Make sure to stay the entire day and take advantage of the free dinosaur tours at 2:00-2:30 or see a planetarium show!

Musical kids will enjoy the Verve Pipe Kids' Show at The Ark (316 S. Main St. Ann Arbor ) at 11:00 a.m. Show admission is only $12.50 and features family-friendly songs.

Your teen might really enjoy the 2013 German-American Gaming League International Championships at the Ann Arbor District Library (343 South Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor) all day 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.  AADL is has teamed up with the US State Department and Germany's Zukunftswerkstatt (Future Workshop) to present the German-American Gaming League Championships. During this first-ever international championship, Ann Arbor's best gamers will be matched up with three German Teens (ages 13, 15 and 18) to pursue the ultimate victory! All teens will compete in Mario Kart, minecraft, and more. This is a teen event (grades 6 - 12).


Your entire family might enjoy Chesstastic at the AADL (Traverwood Branch) From 1:00-4:00 p.m. kids , teens and adults can play one of the world's most popular games with players of all ages and abilities! Chess sets are provided. This free event is for children in grades K - adult. 

At 1:30-3:30 p.m., the Goldfish Swim School Ann Arbor (2107 W Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor) is hosting a water safety event. Families will find a bounce house, edible treats including hot dogs, snow cones, airbrush tattoos and most importantly tips to help keep your children safe in and around water this summer.

Want a little more craftiness in your life, or perhaps you just need a new box? Then be sure to head to the Ypsilanti District Library (8795 MacArthur Blvd., Ypsilanti) to make a Craft Stick Treasure Box. This free program at 2:00-3:30 p.m. allows you to build a one of a kind memento box designed by you!


Sunday, May 19

Yarn bombing? What's that? Teens will get a chance to find out while they Yarn Bomb the Garden at the AADL (Downtown) 1:00-3:00 p.m. Teens in grade 6+ can help yarn bomb the garden at the downtown library by adding a coat of knitted color to the outdoor garden. Learn how to knit a small piece with our knit-cam and an instructor to help guide you. Knitting instruction starts at 1:00 p.m.. If you are able to, please bring yarn scraps and size 8 or 9 needles. 

Sunday is traditionally a day for family, so why not head over for a little do-si-do during the Family Dance at the Pittsfield Union Grange Hall (3337 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd., Ann Arbor) at 2:00-4:00 p.m. The cost, $12 for the family allows your to enjoy traditional dances suitable for children with adults and live music. Grange-baked cookies are served at the end of the dance!

Sunday's weather is looking Sunny so perhaps your family will enjoy the Botany of Lady Slipper Fen with Faye Stoner. Meet at at Park Lyndon North at 2:00-4:00 p.m. to hike into the wetland, learning about the trees, shrubs, flowers and ferns that grow at the park. Wear boots or shoes that can get wet though.

There's one more chance to check out the Evolution of Whales at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) 3:00 p.m.or the free dinosaur tours!

Teen Model Search at zoey + joey Salon

Ann Arbor Teens - Now is your chance to compete in a teen model search.
Simply upload your photos to zoey + joey studio's Facebook Page before June 30!

Hey Ann Arbor teens, have you ever thought about competing in a model search? Well, local zoey + joey studio (3260 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor) is hosting a teen model search now through the end of June! Winners will be featured in the zoey + joey ad campaign, highlighting their new teen salon. Teens ages 11-18 can upload their photo to the zoey + joey studio Facebook Page or email the photo to the studio at marketing@zoeyjoeystudio.com. Winners will be chosen by zoey + joey staff based on how photogenic entrants are and notified by July 3rd.

All winners will receive a year’s worth of haircuts at the salon (up to five in one year), a spot in the back-to-school print campaign and a professional digital portrait* taken by Nick Azzaro. Hanging in the salon sounds like it will be fun too, as the salon will offer a private teen area with private seating, complimentary drinks and PlayStation 3 video games separate from younger clientele.

Make sure to upload your best photos, and good luck!


*Photos for the advertisement remain the property of zoey + joey and can be used for future promotions. 

Mother Daughter Zumba Class Special

Hey Ann Arbor Moms, check out this deal on Zumba classes from Peachy Fitness - This mother/daughter class is a great way to spend quality time together and might make Mom very Happy if she were to receive it as a Mother's Day gift!

The other day on the Ann Arbor Mom Facebook wall I highlighted a new Mother/Daughter class opportunity in Ann Arbor. The special, offered by Peachy Fitness offers ladies only Zumba and Yoga classes in select locations around Ann Arbor.

To celebrate moms everywhere, through May 24, Peachy Fitness is offering a $49 new client special for 8 Mother/Daughter Zumba classes. Additional children (ages 7+) may be added for $5 per child.

Are you curious but want to know more? Peachy Fitness is having an Open House with free kids classes for yoga and Zumba  too. On Saturday, May  24, 6:00-7:00 p.m. at Ann Arbor Taekwondo (2739 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) try a free class and enter to win 8 class package ($69.00 value). Classes are for kids ages 4-12. So be sure to stop in and check things out.

Kids Zumba classes are fun and great exercise.
Classes coming soon at Peachy Fitness.

If you are looking for kids summer activities, starting June 19, Peachy Fitness is offering a summer program of kids classes too! The kids Zumba will provide a great way to exercise while having fun, plus consider that working out helps the kids sleep better!

I hope that you have an opportunity to stop in and check out Peachy Fitness. It sounds like there will be a great program line-up for kids AND moms. For more information on upcoming kids classes or ladies only Zumba and yoga, be sure to visit the Peachy Fitness website or "Like" the Peachy Fitness Facebook Page.





Current Class Locations:

Monday Zumba - 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Chapel Hill Clubhouse (3350 Green Rd., Ann Arbor)

Wednesday Zumba - 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Gretchen's House Barn (2625 Traver Blvd., Ann Arbor)

Future Classes:

Summer session begins June 19, 2013

Kids Zumba - $69.00 8-classes Wednesday & Fridays: 6:00-7:00 p.m. with a $59 early bird discount valid for4 sign-ups through June 14. Peachy Fitness also has a $10.00 sibling discount.


Evening Yoga Classes

Weekend Events Round-up: May 10-12

Lately it seems that a little black cloud has been following me, and it's created a challenge to keep up with me blogging. First my car was broken into and my purse was stolen, running to replace things has been going on, then my daughter got a concussion while at school. So needless to say I've been taking care of the family first. No one likes to see their poor baby hurt!

For the weekend, I'll be slamming participating in the Color Run Ypsilanti (Go team Ypi Ypi Dye Aye!), coaching soccer, buying a car and celebrating Mother's Day with something or another. It's shaping up to be a busy weekend full of activities! How about you? What are your weekend plans in and around Ann Arbor with the kids? Here is an abbreviated list of weekend events, I'm sure you will find something to fill your weekend.

Happy Mother's Day from one Ann Arbor mom to another!

  
Friday, May 10:

Ann Arbor Ladies Night Out tonight starting at 5:00 p.m. Many of the stores and restaurants in Downtown Ann Arbor will be having in-store specials and activities.

Robot Workshop at the FLY Studio (40 N. Huron, Ypsilanti) 6:00-7:30 p.m. Cost is $10/student - Ages 6 to adult are welcome! Build your own robot Frankenstein-style with teen artist Carsten Vandergaard using vintage metal scraps, rusty bits and weird found objects to create an awesome, unique robot sculpture that you will take home with you!

Teen Event: book signing of 'Ask the Passengers' at Nicola's Books (2513 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor) 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 11:

ScienceFest: Robotics at the Ann Arbor Hands On Museum ( 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor) 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free admission to the members and children under 2 years old, and $10 for ages two and up. Find out what it’s like to build a robot or explore hands-on activities for kids from the local FIRST Robotics teams.

Craft Circus Spring Craft Show at Ypsilanti Senior & Community Center (1015 N. Congress St., Ypsilanti) 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free children's craft activities.

Ann Arbor Fire Department Open House at Ann Arbor City Hall/Larcom Municipal Building (North Fifth Avenue at Ann St., Ann Arbor) 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. See rescue demonstrations, coloring books for kids, a chance to explore the new Ann Arbor fire truck.

Storytime: Curious George visits Nicola's Books (2513 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor) 11:00 a.m. Free event for kids 7 & under.

Mother's Day Crafts at the Ann Arbor District Library 11:00 a.m.-noon Kids will make mom a Mother's Day card and crafty flowers. This free event is for preschool age kids through grade 5.

Evolution of Whales at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Free hands-on program for kids ages 5 and up. Explore everything about whales to see how they thrive underwater.  Discover how paleontologists study fossils to find the missing link to the earliest known whale ancestor. PLUS kids will get to make their own own cast of an archaic Dorudon whale tooth!


Sunday, May 12:

Mother’s Day Wildflower Hike at Hudson Mills Metropark (8801 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter ) 1:00 p.m. Admission: $5 adult/$3 child, free for moms. Preregistration at www.metroparks.com or by calling 1-800-47-PARKS. The family will enjoy discovering the spring wildflowers of Hudson Mills.

ScienceFest: Robotics at the Ann Arbor Hands On Museum ( 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor) Noon to 4:00 p.m.

Evolution of Whales at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) 3:00 p.m.  

YMCA Healthy Kids Day

Photo courtesy Ann Arbor YMCA Facebook Page

Everyone wants a healthier lifestyle for the family, so bring them to the Ann Arbor YMCA Healthy Kids Day® and put a little play in your day!

The day, May 4, will be filled with exercise, fun and healthy activities for the family will take place at North Bay Park (1001 Huron St., Ypsilanti) at 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. The free event encourages kids and their parents to get active with activities such as yoga, Tae Kwon Do, and a relay race. Don't think that's enough? Families can also find face painting, an obstacle course, healthy snacks and much, much more!

Join in the fun and healthy activities:


- Family Yoga at 11:30 a.m.
- Tug-o-War at 12:00 p.m.
- Tae Kwon Do at 12:30 p.m.
- Relay Race at 1:00 p.m.

For more information contact Dave Morris at dmorris@annarborymca.org or 661-8052.

FREE: YMCA Splash Swim Lessons

Starting today Ann Arbor families can register their children for free swim lessons at the Ann Arbor YMCA SPLASH Week.

From June 17-21 kids of all ages can take free swim lessons from experienced teachers. Lessons are 30-minutes in length and will focus on water safety: pool, boating, beach and water park safety as well as focusing on swimming stroke development.  So make sure to register today to help your kids stay safe around the water!

To register, fax your form to 734-661-8060 or stop by the YMCA (400 W Washington St., Ann Arbor) Registration desk. For more information, contact For more information, please contact Christina Wackenheim at (734) 661-8050 or cwackenheim[at]annarborymca.org.