March 30, 2015

The Critter House at the Leslie Science & Nature Center

Sundays, April 5, 12, 19, 26  from noon-3:00 p.m. families can explore the Critter House at the Leslie Science & Nature Center (1831 Traver Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105).

The Critter House allows kids of all ages to observe frogs, turtles, snakes, rabbits, and more as they hop, crawl, or slither in their homes here at LSNC! The animals at the house include species native to this region as well many unique and exotic animals donated by our supporters. During open hours the staff will answer your questions, hold interactive activities, and help you get up close and personal with some interesting and unusual animals! Take advantage of this great way for kids–and the whole family–to develop an appreciation for the incredible diversity of the natural world.

This is a free activity no registration is required. Please call 734-997-1553 with any questions.

March 26, 2015

Spring Welcome a Children’s Program

Let us enjoy a hearty "Spring Welcome!" with Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation. On Thursday, April 2, join naturalist Shawn Severance at County Farm Park (Medford Lot) to explore the magic of spring.  

During this program children ages 2-5 will read the book “Tap the Magic Tree” which will be followed by a tap, jiggle, wiggle and brush as the kids breeze their way through the woods.  Hopefully the kids will wake up the tiny leaves and flowers nestled snug in their buds, waiting for spring. This free event will be held at 10:30 a.m.

March 25, 2015

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie Coming to Performance Network


Rescheduled from December, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie is coming to the Performance Network (120 E. Huron St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104) May 30-31. This delightful family theatrical production explores the delicious chain reaction set in motion when a little boy offers a cookie to a visiting mouse. Performances are May 30 and ­31 at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 each and may be purchased online at www.pntheatre.org or by calling the box office at 734-­663-­0681.

 Want a chance to win (2) free tickets to the Saturday, May 30th at 2:00 p.m.? Thanks to performance Network, the Ann Arbor Mom blog has the opportunity to give one family free admission to the program. Just comment below on what part of the book If You Give a Mouse a Cookie is your child's favorite part. A random winner from all entries posted by midnight April 8. Tickets will then be held in will-call at the theater for the winner.

March 22, 2015

Exploring the Back Forty

Get outdoors and Explore the Back Forty of Rolling Hills. On Sunday, March 29, 2:00-4:00 p.m. (meet in the northern Sports Field Lot) join naturalist Faye Stoner to explore  the western-most fields and hedge rows of the park. Hikers will discuss the plant and animal life found. Some easy bushwhacking may be required for this hike so dress appropriately.

March 20, 2015

Toledo Zoo Aquarium Grand Re-opening

On March 27, 2015, the Aquarium at the Toledo Zoo will re-open. The newly renovated Aquarium houses 3000+ aquatic animals in 178,000 gallons of water – nearly four times the volume as the previous Aquarium. Although the two and half year renovation preserved the exterior of the Works Progress Administration (WPA)-era structure, the new Aquarium experience, from sleek sharks to glittering tropical fish, is like nothing seen before in this region.

Families will now be able to touch a stingray, stand beside a sea turtle as it glides by, and talk to a diver inside The Reef. Every step leads further into the mysteries that lurk underwater, from flooded forests of the Amazon and deep seas of the Pacific to fish that glow in the dark and sea nettles that kill with a touch.

So what's new in the Toledo Zoo aquarium?

Exhibit water volume:
Old: 46,000 gallons
New: 178,000 gallons

Largest Exhibit:
Old: 7,600 gallons
New: 90,000 gallons

Percentage of marine (saltwater) exhibits:
Old: 37%
New: 87%

That's a lot of change to check out, so be sure to stop in after they re-open March 27!