Ann Arbor Summer Camp & Day Camp Expo

Find details on Ann Arbor Summer Camps
and Summer Day Camps during the Summer
Camp Expo at Briarwood Mall.

It may be cold and the sun may not be shining much, but I know many Ann Arbor parents are beginning to plan what to do this summer when the sun DOES come out; Ann Arbor parents are already considering summer camp and day camp experiences when the kids are out of school for summer vacation! I know, I have already started looking too...

I am in the process of updating my annual list of Ann Arbor summer camp and summer day camp options for parents, but if you are anxious (and I know many of you are based on the e-mails I have received) then I have a solution for you!

On March 3, 2016, noon-4:00 p.m., Briarwood Mall will once again host its annual “Spring into Summer” Camp Expo. This year’s event will hist more than two dozen camps and will address a wide range of interests for children and young adults up to age 18. Some of the camps already slated to attend include Oz’s Music, Go Like the Wind Montesorri, Summer’s Knoll, and several YMCA day camps.

Attendees at the free event will also enjoy entertainment from Colors the Clown and various kids activities. Do you have a fun kids activity to include in the event? Be sure to register for this free camp expo event.

Ann Arbor summer camps that wish to send me updates on their summer camp programs can contact me at tmayrend at gmail dot com - This year I will also have openings for sponsorship and special advertising deals for Ann Arbor summer camps and those in the surrounding communities!

Free Event: Campfire Fun at the Leslie Science & Nature Center

I am planning on taking my children to this fun event, I mean who wouldn't want to? It's free, sounds fun AND is educational. It would make the perfect way for a family to end their weekend. One Sunday each month from 6:30-8:00 p.m., the Leslie Science & Nature Center is hosting a campfire /story session. You bring the chairs, blankets and roasting sticks (maybe some hot cocoa and fixings for s'mores too) and they'll provide the music, entertainment and marshmallows! 

The Fireside Fun program is FREE and designed for all ages, just come out, bring the necessities and enjoy the night. I'm planning on taking my Cub Scout den and my Daisy Troop too! The dates of this fantastic program are:

Sunday, October 15

Sunday, November 19

Wee, It's Time for the Dawn Farm Jamboree

Kids will find lots to do at the Dawn Farm
Jamboree. From bounce houses to climbing
walls, music and more. AND it's all free!

I drove by the sign yesterday so I know that "it's time for the Dawn Farm Jamboree" wee... A few years ago we attended this fun, local event. The kids loved it, and more importantly it is FREE!

On September 11 from 1:00-6:00 p.m., stop by the Dawn Farm (6633 Stoney Creek Rd., Ypsilanti) for a free event for the whole family. Find live music, hayrides, a petting zoo (OK you can pet all the animals on the farm), pony rides,kids activities, a rock wall, a silent auction and so much more.

Of course if you wanted to donate any money towards the organization, I am CERTAIN that they wouldn't turn it away as their mission is to provide individuals with alcohol and other drug addictions recovering success!

Memorial Day Weekend: Events, Parades and Ceremonies

This weekend is often thought of as the "official start to summer" kicking off with pool openings, BBQ's and family gatherings. It is important to remember though that it should also be a time of reflection and remembrance.

Luckily throughout Washtenaw County and the area, there are plenty of opportunities to experience events to help you do that. So save some gas money this holiday weekend and find something to do with the kids, right here at home. Honor the men and women of this great nation by attending one of the many Memorial Day ceremonies, processions and parades and then head out to experience the other free events happening. There will be plenty of fun for everyone!



Saturday, May 28:

Area Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts will gather at Highland Cemetery (943 N River St., Ypsilanti) to place flags on the graves of our fallen heroes starting at 10:00 a.m. Lunch is served to volunteers after flags have been placed.

Be sure to check out the Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra's FREE concert in the park at 2:00 p.m. Bring your blanket and the family to enjoy patriotic music in the park.

Sunday, May 29:

The annual Memorial Day observance at Arborcrest Memorial Park (2521 Glazier Way, Ann Arbor) will start at 2:00 p.m. and lasts about an hour (rain or shine). Local dignitaries, the Washtenaw County Honor Guard, local Boy Scout troops and Miss Washtenaw are often in attendance.

Monday, May 30:

The Annual Ann Arbor Memorial Day Parade begins at 10:00 a.m. The parade begins at the intersection of Middleton and Frederick and winds along Frederick, Middleton, Bardstown, Windemere, and Barrister roads winding up in Glacier Park at Larchmont and Barrister. There will be a memorial ceremony in Glacier Park at the end of the parade.

Belleville: Sumpter Township Country Fest in Belleville May 27-30, 2016. There is also a parade in downtown Belleville at 10:00 a.m. starting at Cathedral and 2nd that will process down Main Street and conclude at the cemetery.

Chelsea: Parade at 10:00 a.m. The parade route heads south on Main St., east on Park St., north on East St. and east on Middle St., ending at Oak Grove Cemetery for a traditional ceremony honoring area veterans.

Dexter: The Dexter parade begins at 10:00 a.m. with a ceremony in Monument Park after the procession.

Milan: The annual memorial will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the Blue Star Memorial and Veteran's Wall of Honor in Wilson Memorial Park. The parade will commence following these ceremonies and process West on Main St. ending at the Marble Park Cemetery, where services will be held and dignitaries will speak, honoring our military veterans.  The public is encouraged to participate in this parade using a patriotic theme but please do not pass out candy.

Saline: The Memorial Day parade, hosted by the American Legion, begins at 10:00 a.m. on Bennett Street due to Construction!

Ypsilanti:

The Yankee Air Museum always has something. On Saturday, May 28 participate in “Celebrate and Connect: Send a Million Letters to our Troops”starting at 10:00 am until 4:00 pm to support USO’s goal of collecting 1 million messages to share with those serving in the U.S. military worldwide. Then on Monday, May 30 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. participate in the annual program dedicated to honoring the military men and women who were killed serving the United States.

The Ypsilanti Memorial Day Procession begins at 9:00 a.m. (North Huron Street/Michigan Avenue) and ending at the Highland Cemetery for a ceremony. Includes veterans, Scouts, marching bands, Gold Star Mothers, and a 21-gun salute.

It is important that I also point out that there are many historic and beautiful war memorials throughout Washtenaw County to visit and honor our veterans. For a full list or War Memorial locations in Washtenaw County visit the Genealogical Society of Washtenaw County website.

If you have other Memorial Day observances to add to the post, please comment below. Watch for the weekend events round-up too for your other planning needs!

Rockhounding Basics

Fun family event: Rockhounding 101 at the Eddy Discovery Center.

My children and I have really gotten into rock-hounding the past few years. So much so, that on any given beach you will find rocks in our pockets, in backpacks, wrapped in blankets and sometimes in our shoes! The goal is now to find the BEST rock of a specific kind. 

I have actually found a lot pleasure in collecting specimens and learning to identify them. Gliding my fingers across their rough surface or enjoying the cool smoothness. It is soothing and exhilarating.  I have gotten so good in fact that I now am a merit badge counselor for Boy Scouts and have several presentations that I have delivered to the school my children attend (sometimes not even to their classes!). It's a hobby I have really enjoyed and my son's principal has actually asked me to submit to be a substitute teacher after seeing one of the presentations. 

Certainly I have had this love since I was a small child. My grandpa had a huge rock tumbler in his basement and I will forever remember him showing me rocks fresh from the tumbler. My love of rocks was rekindled though when my kids and I attended a free event at the Eddy Discovery Center.

The next Rockhound Basics course will be held on Sunday, May 22, at 2:00 p.m. Families will discover what you can learn about ancient Michigan from looking at a rock, walk along the rock walk at the Eddy Discovery Center ( 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea, MI 48118) and get to pick the brain of area geologist Larry Bean. You will even learn how to “read” the story told by rocks and help you to identify specimens at a local quarry. 

Meet at the Discovery Center before driving to the quarry to do some collecting. Advance registration is requested at 734-475-3170. Cost: $2 per person/$5 per family. 

Sketching Nature for the Family

On Sunday, May 15 at 2:00 p.m., families who enjoy drawing will have the opportunity to develop their hidden artistic talent sketching nature at the Eddy Discovery Center (17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea, MI 48118). Participants will meet with scientific illustrator Jen Koppin, who will teach drawing techniques and observational skills. The class will then head outdoors to practice sketching and color exercises.

The cost for this event includes entry into the State Park and is $2/person or $5/family plus an additional $2 materials fee for supplies (unless you bring your own). Advance registration for this program is required at 734-475-3170.

Mothers Day Crafts

Tomorrow will be beautiful in Ann Arbor, but as my daughter reminded me last night, Mother's Day is NEXT WEEKEND! She was actually pretty cute too, as she told me that she wanted to save money to buy me a big diamond. I didn't have the heart to tell her she didn't need to but instead told her that Daddy will be taking her to Home Depot to build a picture frame. I told her she could give it to Grandma, but I expect I will be receiving it now. With that being said, I wanted to share these three quick Mother's Day craft options that are happening tomorrow.

I already highlighted the Home Depot kids building project earlier this week, but as a reminder, starting at 9:00 a.m. at local Home Depot locations, kids can build a cute picket fence frame. It would be a perfect Mother's Day project.

Lucky kids (and parents) may also want to stop by a local Michael's craft store during their Kids Club® event 10:00 a.m. - noon. This is where they craft and you shop. This 30-minute drop-in event gives kids the opportunity to create and take home a completed project for just $2/child. The cost  includes supplies and none of the mess. It is for kids ages 3 and up. Tomorrow kids are making a Mother's Day frame.

Then later that day, stores are offering a family class for another kind of frame. This one is a cute canvas project that highlights your child's handprints so they can say "Owl always love you! The project runs 6:30-8:30 p.m. and costs $15 for the canvas and all supplies. Once again though, the mess stays at Michael's.

So Whoo loves you this Mother's Day? Be sure to take the kids. If you don't want the projects, I'm certain grandma would love to receive one this Mother's Day!

Maker Workshop at YDL- Michigan

My kids have really enjoyed the many "maker" activities they have joined in on, and now it seems that the Ypsilanti District Library (Michigan branch) is jumping on the maker bandwagon, at least for one event. On Saturday, January 17, be sure to have your kids stop in for the YDL Makey Makey Workshop where they can create a banana piano. During the program at 1:00 p.m. they will explore several musical activities  while using electronic controls. Certainly sounds like fin to me!

Father Christmas at the Leslie Science & Nature Center

The Leslie Science and Nature Center (1831 Traver Road Ann Arbor) is excited to have an 1890s-era version of Father Christmas visit! On Saturday, December 6 (1:00-2:00 p.m. or 3:30-4:30 p.m.) Father Christmas will visit with you and your family to tell stories about holiday season traditions.

"Santa," complete with a long brown hooded robe, staff, and a wooden backpack brimming with interesting items will even offer you and your kids a photo opportunity following the presentation, so bring your camera! Registration is $8/person or $30/family. To be sure that all our guests for this program have a terrific time, space is limited for this program and preregistration is required.

For more information visit the website or call 734-997-1553 to register by phone today!

Mother's Day Weekend Events Round-Up

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

I wanted to wish all the wonderful Ann Arbor Mom's a fabulous Mother's Day. May you each get a fantastic breakfast in bed, a few extra minutes of quiet coffee, time to take a leisurely bath or whatever it is you wish for the most. Mostly though, I hope each of you take a few moments for yourself!

For the rest of the weekend though, let's see what events are happening around town!
 
Friday, May 9:

Attention all Ann Arbor Moms, tonight would be a great night to drop your kids at "Kidz Night Out" with Bricks 4 Kidz (Ages 5-12 - Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin. $30/$25 for siblings). at 6:00 p.m. Kids will enjoy a variety of craft activities, games, challenges, and open play using motorized Lego sets, plus get pizza, dessert, juice & water. 

After dropping them off, head down to Ladies Night Out starting at 5:00 p.m. Many of the stores and restaurants in Downtown Ann Arbor will be having in-store specials and activities. Be sure to pick up your Ladies Night Passport too - Filling it out will enter you in drawing for a prize package worth over $3,000! The first 1,200 shoppers will also receive a fun, flashing light up ring and with a purchase of  $25 or more you can get free parking.


Saturday, May 10:

Is it time for the kids to Touch a Truck or perhaps swim during Safety Day at Goldfish Swim School? There are plenty of crafts for Mother's Day at Whole Foods (10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) and the Ann Arbor District Library and Ypsilanti District Library. Although some of the free events require pre-registration so be sire to check the library websites.

For non-Mother's Day activities there is Nature Fun for Kids (2:30 p.m.) at County Farm Park for kids ages 4-7, free dinosaur tours, planetarium shows, and family history day at the Ypsilanti District Library at 11:00 a.m.

Sunday, May 11:


On Sunday perhaps a stop at the Domino's Farm Petting Zoo is in your near future, they are now open 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. You should also consider checking out the Hands-on DNA science demo at the UM Museum of Natural History at 11:00 a.m. If you wanted to get out and about I heard about a great Mother's Day Wildflower Hike at the Leslie Science & Nature Center (1:00-2:30 p.m.)

Regardless of what you choose to do, please enjoy your weekend plans, take some time for yourself and be sure to leave time in your weekend planner for YOUR mom!

Touch-a-Truck Event for the Kids

 
Saturday May 10, 9:00 a.m.-noon, at Ypsilanti Community High School where children of all ages can check out the "Touch a Truck" event.

Touch-a-Truck is a free event in Ypsilanti
that allows kids to check out trucks of all types sizes! 

This free event is sponsored by Washtenaw Success by 6 and provides kids an opportunity to see, touch and learn about dozens of cool vehicles. From fire trucks to motorcycles, cement trucks to police cars, to UPS trucks to garbage trucks and school buses and everything in between...

In addition, many local organizations will be in attendance helping families find information about Ann Arbor preschool opportunities, childcare and health services available in the community. The Mobile Learning Program will even be there with free crafts.

Year-over-year thousands of families in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti attend this enjoyable free event - The new location this year promises to be even bigger and better. So be sure to get out and get "touchy".

Weekend Event Round-Up: March 21-23

It has been a while since I have posted a weekend planner. This just seemed like a good weekend to share, and honestly I had a bit of time to collect the information. My daughter is excited to be off with my cousin for a weekend away - They will be crafting, seeing the new Muppet movie and sewing a dress for her to wear for book character day at school. I on the other hand want to see Divergent, will likely take my son to see the Muppet movie and will be shuttling him around to various Science Olympiad practices. I'll then end my weekend with my Brownie Troop skating at the Spectacular Scout Skate at Skatin Station. No rest for the weary here!

What are your weekend plans for this first weekend of spring? Doing anything special with the kids in Ann Arbor? If not I hope this weekend events round-up can provide some great ideas for fun!

Saturday

9:00  a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Predators and Prey at the UM Museum of Natural History

9:00 a.m. & 10:00 a.m. Free movies: Madagascar

10:00 a.m. Celebrate the 10th birthday of the AADL Malletts Creek Branch with a Happy Birthday Craft Celebration For Youth (ages 3+).  Make a three tiered paper cake with gems, tissue paper, stickers and ten candles and have a little treat.

10:00 a.m. Get crafty when visiting Michael's (3655 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor). For just $2 kids get to decorate a picture frame with felt stickers. This program runs every half hour until noon.

11:00 a.m. Get hands-on with a great snake demo at the UM Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Avenue Ann Arbor, MI 48109). Explore the world of snakes: How they move, how they hear and smell and what they eat. Kids will even get up close and personal with snake skin, hear like a snake, and use museum specimens to learn more. This is a free event however donations are always appreciated! Families can also attend at 3:30 p.m.

11:00 a.m. Celebrate the beginning of Spring by planting an herb garden and enjoying an ice cream float at the Ypsilanti Library (Michigan) Spring Fling free event.

11:30 a.m. Check out the stars when exploring the planetarium at the UM Natural History Museum during the "The Sky Tonight: Star Talk".  Learn about stars, constellations, planets, and telescopic objects in the current night sky. Cost is $5/person. Other planetarium shows are hourly on the half hour throughout the day.

12:00 p.m. Rainbow Loom Meet Up at Michael's crafts. Cost if $5. Register at Michael's online.

2:00 p.m. Free dinosaur tours.

2:00-4:00 p.m. Get your lab rats excited with gravity experiments during the Ypsilanti District Library (Whittaker) Library Lab Kids. This program allows kids in grades 1-6 to dive into scientific discoveries with fun, hands-on experiments. Be sure to wear old clothes for this messy lesson about gravity. Parents do need to stay to help too. Registration is required for this program by calling 482-4110 x1340 or logging onto your library account. 

3:00 p.m. Free Event. Raptor Feeding at the Leslie Science and Nature Center (1831 Traver Road Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105).

4:00 p.m. Bring your budding artist to the Drop in and Draw Kids teen event. Kids will work on drawing skills. All skill levels are welcome, all supplies are included free too.

4:00 p.m. Experience spring by creating a spring terrarium at the Eddy Discovery Center (17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea, MI 48118). Families should bring a glass container with a lid (quart to gallon size) and be ready to dig in to create a small ecosystem beautiful enough for display. This is a free event.

Sunday

9:00 a.m. & 10:00 a.m. Free movies: Madagascar

12:00 p.m. The Critter House is open at the Leslie Science & Nature Center.

2:00-3:30 p.m. The sky's the limit when your kids create their own telescope!  This Eddy Discovery Center program allows your kids to be their own little Galileo as they make their own working telescope with astronomy buff Meg Gower. The cost for this program is free to members of the Waterloo Natural History Association or $2/person or $5/family Supplies for the telescope are $8/telescope. This event is limited to creating 20 telescopes so advance registration required at by calling 734-475-3170.

2:00 p.m. Free dinosaur tours.

3:30 p.m. Hands-on snake demo at the UM Museum of Natural History.

4:00 p.m. Your budding musician will enjoy the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Family Concert "The Planets" (at the Michigan Theater) featuring music from Star Wars as well as many famous planetary musical compositions. Starting at 2:30 p.m. kids can enjoy pre-concert activities including an instrument petting zoo. There will also be a real Apollo Space suit for viewing and after the show, Astronaut Tony England will be signing autographs.Sounds like a plan that is out of this world!

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Family Fun Night at the UM Museum of Natural History

Ever wondered what happens in the museum at night? I'm sure it's not as exciting as the movie Night at the Museum BUT on Friday, December 6 from 5:30-9:00 p.m. families can find out what happens when the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History hosts Family Fun Night.

The fun event will feature activities for kids of all ages including 30-minute planetarium shows hourly starting at 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. for only $3 and free dinosaur tours on the hour starting at 6:00 p.m. For the youngest members of your family, kids can enjoy story-times at 6:00 and 7:00 p.m.

So come on out and enjoy a family fun night at the museum!

Weekend Events Round-up: Labor Day Weekend

Happy Labor Day weekend. Here's hoping whatever you are doing - Having a family BBQ, spending time at the beach, camping, playing outdoors or having a picnic is peaceful and wonderful. I know many friends will be prepping for that first day of school, as I will be doing, as well as finishing up our summer bucket list! Don't let the weekend get away from you though, there is still plenty of great activities and events happening around town. Experience Kid's Day at the Saline Community Fair, or even head to the Michigan State Fair.

Another fun weekend event sounds like the Old St. Patrick Labor Day Weekend Festival (5671 Whitmore Lake Rd., Ann Arbor). The festival hours are Saturday and Sunday noon - 11:00 p.m. With free admission, families will find kids’ games, a petting farm, free face painting and inflatables. Teen specific activities include a rock-climbing wall and a bungee jump. Find food and plenty of entertainment in this fun-filled event.

It's been kind of a hectic week for me with the family and I'm not sure how the next few months will play out, I will however continue to try and get you fun events and activities for the kids! Have a great Labor Day weekend check out a few things happening around town.

Friday:

• Free dinosaur tours at the UM Natural History Museum at 2:00 p.m. 
• You're a Good Man Charlie Brown  at Children’s Creative Center (1600 Pauline Blvd., Ann Arbor) at 8:00 p.m.  Ticket prices for general admission are $20.

Saturday:

• Weekly story time at Nicola's Books 11:00 a.m. - noon
• Hands-on cow-eye dissection at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) at 11:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m. for ages 5+ This is a free event but there is a suggested donation is $6 per person. 
• Ultimate gaming experience at Briarwood Mall (Macy's court) where kids and teens can try unreleased Nintendo and Bandai Namco games at 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 
• Free dinosaur tours 2:00 p.m.
• You're a Good Man Charlie Brown  at Children’s Creative Center at 8:30 p.m.  

Sunday:

• Ultimate gaming experience at Briarwood Mall 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 
• Free dinosaur tours 2:00 p.m. 
• West Lake Preserve almost autumn exploration hike at 2:00-4:00 p.m. On this hike families will look at insects, wildflowers, birds, trees and more as they hike the field and forest habitats of the preserve.
• Hands-on cow-eye dissection at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History at 3:00 p.m.
• Dancing in the Streets party happens in downtown Ann Arbor (Main & Washington) 2:00-6:30 p.m. 

Monday:

• Free admission to the The Henry Ford Museum during the Target Family Fun Day.

Explore Dexter Daze This Weekend

Find many family activities this weekend at Dexter Daze.

Cooler temperatures later this week should bring welcome relief as the Dexter Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Dexter Daze community fair. As with most local events, there will be artists, clown's, plenty of food, sidewalk sales and great family entertainment. Check out the many things to do at this year's event.


Friday, August 9:

• 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Arts & Crafts Booths
• 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Bounce Fun at Mill Creek North Behind the Fire Station 
• 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Rock Climbing Wall on Jeffords Street 
• 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.  Little Conductors Train at Jeffords Street
• 12:00-1:00 Leslie Science & Nature Center Animal Show
• 1:30-3:00 p.m. Rollicking Children's Music
• 3:00-5:00 Scio Flyers - Radio Control Airplanes 
• Dusk (about 9:00) ET - Movie in the Park at Mill Creek North

Saturday, August 10:

• 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Arts & Crafts Booths
• 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Dexter Daze Parade
• 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Bounce Fun at Mill Creek North Behind the Fire Station 
• 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Rock Climbing Wall on Jeffords Street 
• 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.  Little Conductors Train at Jeffords Street 
• 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Colors the Clown
• 1:00-2:00 p.m. Music by Kerfluffles
• 3:00-5:00 p.m. Rhythm on a Stick - Steel Drums

Make it a perfect August day and visit Dexter Daze, it's a great way to spend the weekend and one your family won't forget!

Independence Day Weekend Events: July 3-7

What are your plans for this extended holiday weekend? If you are in town, there is still lots to do - Indoors and out. Of course you could head to the Drive-InTheatre in Canton, there are several great family-friendly movies to be seen including Despicable Me 2. If the weather cooperates there is always Rolling Hills, Independence Lake or the free spray park in Canton, and of course you could rent a canoe or paddle boat on the Huron River too! I love that the Ann Arbor area offers so much to families! Don't forget this is the last weekend for the Ann Arbor Summer Festival too, but there is still plenty to do.

So what are your plans? Check out the extended weekend events calendar for your family's weekend planning - Hopefully it is your go-to-guide for events and activities in and around Ann Arbor. Have an event to add? Simply comment below or send me a message!

What are your weekend plans with the family? Besides parades, fireworks
and cook-outs, there is still plenty to do!

Wednesday, July 3

Today has a few events families will enjoy including several storytime programs 11:00 a.m. (AADL (Pittsfield - 3090 E. Eisenhower Pky., Ann Arbor) or (AADL Main - 343 S. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor) and 6:00 p.m. (AADL Traverwood - 3333 Traverwood Dr., Ann Arbor). In the evening be sure to check out the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, especially the KidZone Tent after 5:00 p.m. to catch a glimpse of the natural world by visiting one of the Leslie Science & Nature Center Critter House snakes, turtles, tarantulas, or scorpions. Kids will also be able to make playful owl masks and apply temporary tattoos. A few other noteworthy events happening:

• Planetarium Shows at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
• Teen art zone at the YDL (Michigan) at 2:00 p.m. - Each week teens will participate in a new art project.
• Star Spangled Crafts at the AADL (Pittsfield - 3090 E. Eisenhower Pky., Ann Arbor) at 3:00 p.m. for preschooler aged children through 5th grade.
• Wacky Widget Wednesday's at the YDL (Whittaker) at 3:00 p.m. where kids will make their own faux stained glass window.
• Ann Arbor Civic Band's Tribute to the U.S.A. at West Park (215 Chapin St., Ann Arbor) Band Shell at 8:00 p.m. where families will enjoy a patriotic free performance.

Thursday, July 4

Of course Independence Day always offers the 3 F's - fireworks families and fun. Enjoy your BBQ but not until you see one of the many area parades. After 5:00 p.m. be sure to check the Ann Arbor Summer Festival's KidZone Tent at Top of the Park as Apple Playschools helps celebrate Hispanic culture through music and bilingual yoga for kids. Kids can also collaborate on a Reggio inspired art project or hear talking flowers tell surrealist, Wonderland-like stories, play hilarious games with alien robots, or check out Spontaneous Art. Performances by the Capitol Steps at 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. are also great ways to cap off your July 4!


Friday, July 5

The holiday may have kept you hopping but that shouldn't mean your family should ignore the fun KidsZone sponsorship at Top of the park. On Friday, kids can discover their inner athlete as they team up with family and friends and try out new sports with the staff of the U-M School of Kinesiology’s KidSport Camp. Families will find hands-on activities and cool camp activities that support team building, social, and athletic skills! There are a few other activities I wanted to feature for Friday too including:

• Bubble Fun at the AADL Main (343 S. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor). Let your kids (Grades K-5) explore making homemade bubbles during this free event at 2:00 p.m.
• Preschool Storytime at Ann Arbor District Library (Pittsfield - 3090 E. Eisenhower Pky., Ann Arbor) from 10:00-10:30 a.m.
• Drop-In Craft Extravaganza at Dexter District Library (3255 Alpine St., Dexter) Free event for kids and teens of all ages.
• Planetarium shows at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. 
• Film Friday's at the Ypsilanti District Library (Michigan Ave.) where kids can see The Muppets at 2:00 p.m. 

Saturday, July 6

Here's another fun KidZone Tentevent at Top of the Park. See LEGO robot lions roar, LEGO bayblades compete, and LEGO sumo robots battle to be king of the mountain when Rocks and Robots takes over.If that's not enough, then how about any of these fun events:

• The Critter House at the Leslie Science and Nature Center (1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor) is free and open to the public from 10:00a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 
• Family Storytime at the YDL (Whittaker) at 10:30 a.m.
• Roller Coaster Program at 10:30 a.m. at YDL (Michigan) and 1:00 p.m. (Whittaker). Stop by to visit with the staff from the Ann Arbor Hands On Museum as they demonstrate what makes roller coasters go, then work in small groups to build your own roller coaster. This free program is only available to YDL cardholders. Call the library to register.
• Weekly Story Time at Nicola's Books (2513 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor) from 11:00 a.m. - noon.
• Hands-On cow-eye dissection at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave. Ann Arbor) at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Learn the parts of the eye and how they work together. The 20-30 minute interactive program takes place on the 2nd floor and includes a brief presentation and engaging hands-on activities. This free event is suitable for adults and kids and teens (Ages 5+). 
• Planetarium shows at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) at 11:30, 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.
• Open Studio Drop-in art session at the FLY Children's Art Center (40 N. Huron, Ypsilanti) at noon-1:00 p.m. For just $5/class your kids can get creative in the studio without the at-home mess. Parents can chill in the parent's lounge while their children "work". No registration is required for this event.
• Raptor Feeding at the Leslie Science and Nature Center from 1:00-3:00 p.m.
• Eggcellent Engineering for kids and teens (Grades 4-8) at the AADL Main at 2:00-3:00 p.m. Put your brain in gear to design and build a vehicle that will protect an egg from a big, big drop.
• Altered Tee Workshop at the FLY Studio 2:00 p.m. For $10/student kids and teens (Ages 6+) will join fabric artist Allida Traleda and learn to cut and alter a baggy old tee-shirt into a cool, wearable work of art - no sewing required!
• Free dinosaur tours 2:00 p.m. 

Sunday, July 7

In the afternoon, kids can build a Spacecraft on Top of the Earth at Ann Arbor District Library (July 7-13) - See what happens when many people work together to build a spaceship on top of the world! This collaboration will be built out of provided materials upon the map in the Youth area. Come work on it all week, whenever the Library is open! Then after 5:00 p.m. check out the KidZone tent sponsored by the Conceptual Development Lab at the University of Michigan. Kids can make their own bubble wand and blow bubbles. My kids have participated in many of their studies, the kids like "getting paid" while helping with important developmental research! After that stay for the closing movie - Grease at 10:00 p.m. Sing along to your hearts content too! If that's not enough how about this?

• Free dinosaur tours 2:00 p.m.
• Hands-On cow-eye dissection at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave. Ann Arbor) at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• Planetarium shows at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) at 1:30and 2:30 p.m.
• Kids and teens (grades 6+) can make a JunkBot Buggies at 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the AADL Downtown. Learn about electronics as you build a JunkBot out of scrap parts and electrical circuits.

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.

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.

Week 16 - Weekend Events Round-up: April 19-21

April showers bring May flowers - What will you do in Ann Arbor with the kids this weekend???

This weekend is shaping up to be a wet, muddy soccer weekend for us, plus my son is competing in the WESO Science Olympiad for two events. I am coaching his one team as well as coaching my daughter's soccer team. Then there is set load-in for the school play that my son is in. In a word, I am slammed! My kinds are slammed. My family is slammed. The end of the school year craziness has oddly already begun. Is anyone else experiencing that?

In looking at the Ann Arbor weekend events happening though, it seems we are light on things to do with the kids. Certainly there are the various Earth Day activities happening, and a few children's theater productions (The Young Actor's Guild and Saline Area Players), or the Passport2Pittsfield Event, but in general it's a very quiet weekend. Do you have weekend plans with the family? If it's wet, your kids may enjoy exploring the UM Natural History Museum with it's free dinosaur tours. Whatever you do, just enjoy and know that spring really will come soon. After all, "April showers..."

Saturday, April 20

This weekend might be a great time for a free movie. At 9:00 or 10:00 a.m. on Saturday or Sunday take the kids to see Paranorman at local Goodrich Theaters. If that's not yoru style, then consider getting crafty at the Fly Art Studio (40 N. Huron Ypsilanti) at 2:00 p.m. sew a handmade stuffed bird, and create a nest from recycled materials for only $10 - Just be sure to register on the website to secure your spot!

Sunday, April 21

Sunday is all about free movies with another chance to see Paranorman or head to The Michigan Theater (603 E. Liberty St. Ann Arbor) for the Family-Friendly Film Series showing of Freaky Friday (1976) at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults with free admission for kids 12 and under.

Don't forget to register to win free tickets to Seussical at the Michigan Theater too!!! The deadline for entry is rapidly approaching.