Ann Arbor Mom Blog

FREE Family Adventure Passes

2012-05-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

In 2009...

As it was a rainy, dreary day in Ypsilanti Township yesterday, I decided to take my kids to the 1:30 PM story time. Typically we like to linger in the library for a while after the stories. We'll check things out, look at new books and movies, and we always look at opportunities for the family - I'll say it, I like inexpensive or (ah-hem) preferably FREE activities, and our public library often offers up great resources!

On our way out, I noticed a small, colorful booklet laying on the counter. I was intrigued so I picked it up. It said "CHECK OUT A MUSEUM" - OK I'll bite, what was did it mean...
Reading further I found that my family could get FREE passes to many local museums around Metro Detroit allowing for two to four admissions! That's right, take a deep breath, it read FREE - And the way to get your passes, is to check them out at your local library!

Now back for it's final year starting May 25, 2012..

We have used the Museum Adventure Pass several times since 2009. It's an amazing free resource for families. You can check passes out May 25-September 1, 2012 for admission to many amazing museum's throughout the Metro-Detroi area and even some in Ann Arbor.

The program is run a little different this year. Instead of walking into the local libraries to check out the passes, you need to choose your library online, then choose the pass. There are many area libraries participating though the library network though: Ypsilanti District Library, Saline District Library, Chelsea District Library and the Dexter District Library so passes are easily accessible. This year too, several theaters are offering passes where families can buy deeply discounted theater tickets.

Some of the great museums and theaters included in the 2012 program are:

Anton Art Center - Mt. Clemens

Arab American National Museum - Detroit

Arts & Scraps - Detroit

Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

Detroit Artists Market

Detroit Institute of Arts

Dossin Great Lakes Museum - Detroit

Edsel & Eleanor Ford House - Grosse Point Shores

Full Impact Theatre (formerly known as Michigan Youth Theater) - Rochester

Grosse Pointe Historical Society

Holocaust Memorial Center - Farmington Hills

Howell Nature Center

Huron Valley Council for the Arts

Michigan Philharmonic - Plymouth

Monroe County Historical Society

Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) - Detroit

Pewabic Pottery - Detroit

Purple Rose Theatre - Chelsea

Shalom Street Museum - West Bloomfield

The Art Experience - Pontiac

The Scarab Club - Detroit

Tipping Point Theatre - Northville

University of Michigan Exhibit Museum of Natural History - Ann Arbor

Weekend Events Round-Up: Memorial Day Weekend

2012-05-24T08:00:00.000-04:00

There are so many great events and activities happening this weekend. Pools are opening, BBQ's are rocking, plus there are event many Memorial Day parades, processions and ceremonies. What's on your planner? Have you got the calendar filled with things to do with kids? Family events? Fun activities?

This weekend surely has lots happening, as the Ann Arbor Mom Blog presents the "Weekend Events Planner for Memorial Day Weekend"... Hold tight, it's surely going to be a whirlwind weekend!

Head to the Sumpter County Fest this weekend for some
fun at the carnival!

Friday, May 25:

It's time for one of the season's very first carnival! Stop by the Belleville Square (NW corner of Belleville Rd. and the North I-94 Service Drive) for all day ride fun for only $20! The Sumpter Country Fest (Sumpter Fairgrounds south of Belleville on Sumpter and Dunn Rd.) happenis this weekend (May 24-28). The festival is host to free children's entertainment, pony rides, a petting zoo, crafts, and a car show.

Spend a few minutes understanding Summer on the Farm with 'The Farm Lady' at Dexter District Library (3255 Alpine St., Dexter) at 1:00 p.m. Hear stories about life on a farm, especially in the summer, sing farm songs and meet some live ducks and chickens!

Take the family out for an early morning bird walk
with the Washtenaw Audubon Society.

Saturday, May 26:

Get out early with a bird walk with the Washtenaw Audubon Society at 8:00 a.m. Meet at the Nichols Arboretum (1800 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor) for this free event.

Get the kids making something unique during the Grange Jr. Makers program at 10:00 a.m. at the Pittsfield Grange.

Teens do get a kick out of the Amigurumi Club at the Ypsilanti District Library, so be sure to stop in at 11:00 a.m. so they can learn something new!

If you haven't registered your child (age 5-12) for Camp Skills Rock, you might want to check the program out. The one-day, high-energy program will surely be enjoyable while building your child's self-confidence!

Ewe and the kids will be happy to see the baby
sheep grow at the Rentshler Farm!

Take the family to explore the many historic buildings in the area including the Rentshler Farm Museum when they are open Saturday's throughout the summer. The kids will enjoy the young farm animals on display too!

Enjoy classic, sporty, unusual and rare collectible cars on display at the third annual City Car Show at Ann Arbor City Club (1830 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor) also from noon- 4:00 p.m. The free show, refreshments for sale, free admission, enter your own favorite vehicle.

Start your Memorial Day family weekend off with a bang with a FREE outdoor pops concert at Riverside Park (100 W. Cross St., Ypsilanti). At 2:00 p.m. the Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra will perform popular music from Broadway and Hollywood as well known music and from family favorites. Park in Depot Town and bring your blankets, chairs and coolers across the street to spend the day, under shaded trees, on a blanket, watching children of all ages dance and enjoy orchestral music. In the event of rain clouds, the concert will be on Sunday May 27 at 2:00 p.m.

Have you ever wondered what makes our eyes work or how we see? Then the Eye Dissection at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) may be right up your child's alley! Children and adult ages 5 and up can get a closer look at a dissection of a cow’s eye to see how the organ that helps us see the world. There is something for everyone during this interactive and fascinating demonstration! Hands-on demos are 20-30 minute interactive programs combining brief presentations highlighting university research with engaging activities. Check it out at 3:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 27:

Hands-On Demo: Eye Dissection at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor) at 3:00 p.m.

Monday, May 28:

Be sure to check out the many great ceremonies and parades happening throughout the area.

Memorial Day Weekend: Events, Parades and Ceremonies

2012-05-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

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!

Friday - Monday, May 25-28:

The VFW Graf-O’Hara Post 423 (3230 S. Wagner Rd., Lodi Township) will honor Memorial Day with a daily open house (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) displaying items from their Military Museum. Families can learn about Memorial Day and it's significance by viewing military uniforms, dating from WWI, and various medals, weapons, and patches from many branches of the armed forces. This event is open to the public and donations are accepted.

Sunday, May 27:

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). This year families will hear a barbershop quartet and trumpet performances, and a recitation of "Flanders Field". U.S. Rep. John Dingell, the Washtenaw County Honor Guard, local Boy Scout troops and Miss Washtenaw will also be in attendance. State Rep. Mark Ouimet is master of ceremonies this year.

Monday, May 28:

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: “Thunder Rolls" through Belleville during an annual Memorial Day tribute honoring the memory of veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice. Hundreds of motorcycle bikers assemble, riding through Van Buren and Belleville to arrive for a ceremony and bell ringing at 2:00 or 2:30 p.m. at the Veteran’s Memorial in Horizon Park (Belleville Lake on High Street, east of Main Street, across from Grace Baptist Church).

Chelsea: Parade at 10:00 a.m. - Visitors should also honor Veterans at a “Arlington Michigan” display at Pierce Park (located on South Main Street, just north of Old US Highway 12).

Dexter: The 2012 Memorial Day ceremonies begin at 9:00 a.m. With a parade at 10:00 a.m. This year's parade theme is a "Time to Honor".

Manchester: The Memorial Day Parade will begin at the main Street bridge at 11:00 a.m. with a brief ceremony of remembrance.

Milan: The annual memorial will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the Legion (44 Wabash St., Milan) where wreaths will be placed at Ford Lake and at the Blue Star Memorial 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. After the parade, The Legion invites the public back to the post for hot dogs and soft drink.

Saline: The Memorial Day parade, hosted by the American Legion, begins at 10:00 a.m. at the fire station on Harris Street at Michigan Avenue and runs down Main Street ending at the Cemetery.

Ypsilanti:

The Yankee Air Museum (Willow Run Airport) hosts an annual all-day Memorial Day observance and open house beginning at 8:00 a.m. that includes a pancake breakfast, aircraft fly-overs, a blood drive, displays of aircraft, hot dog lunch, simulators and special kids activities.

The Ypsilanti Memorial Day Parade 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.

Ypsilanti Township: At 1 p.m. at the Washtenaw County Vietnam Veterans Memorial at the Ypsilanti Township Civic Center (7200 Huron River Drive) an event will recognize military heroes and lay flowers at the memorial.

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.

Watch for the weekend events round-up too for your other planning needs!

Tour The Rentschler Farm & Saline Railroad Depot Museums

2012-05-19T10:59:00.000-04:00

Every Saturday throughout the summer, your entire family can tour the Rentschler Farm (1265 E. Michigan Ave., Saline) and Saline Railroad Depot Museums 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Explore farm animals including young lambs and their ewes, as well as baby pigs. At the depot museum, visit the fully furnished train caboose.

Hiking, Mills and Wildflowers: Grand Opening at Rolling Hills

2012-05-17T12:00:00.000-04:00

Are you looking for something fun to do this weekend? Consider taking the family to the grand opening of the newest trails in Rolling Hills on Sunday, May 20. Get outdoors and enjoy a picnic, or even just spend some time fishing or enjoying the playground. Everyone gets in free on Sunday too, while the vehicle entry fee is waived!

Earlier this year, the kids and I enjoy the trails - I let them ride their scooters ahead while the dog and I languished behind. We've even hiked the trails with the Cub Scouts! Basically there is a trail for every ability throughout the park, so you will not be disappointed.

When you come to the park, expect fun throughout the day. From 1:00-4:00 p.m., check out the trails and the ribbon cutting on the new expansion too. Looking for a good hike? Then a nature hike through Sassafras Woods at 2:00 p.m. may be what the doctor ordered - Participants should plan to meet near playground by the sledding hill.

No matter what you choose, just be sure to get out there and get active. You'll be glad you did!

Camp Skills Rock Ann Arbor

2012-05-16T13:30:00.000-04:00

Would your child or teen (age 5-14) like to spend the day enjoying camp activities like learning to pitch a tent, canoeing, fishing, rock climbing, making s'mores, reading a map or making rope out of plant material? Then Camp Skills Rock may be just the thing!

Rock wall climbing helps teach
kids confidence!

On Saturday, May 26, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., your child will enjoy a camp lunch and five fun activity stations. Help your child build their self-confidence and strengthen their feelings of personal ability through learning outdoor skills in a fun and safe environment. As an added bonus, your child will understand that through their participation they will be helping to raise money for Alpha House,
a Family Homeless Shelter in Ann Arbor.

This one-day camp will be held at Gallup Park (3000 Fuller Rd., Ann Arbor) and cost only $10 per attendee, or $8 if you pay online. Hurry to sign up though so that your child gets to enjoy their choice of activities!

YMCA Healthy Kids Day

2012-05-16T13:00:00.000-04:00

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 19, 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 Sharon Mills Historic Tour

2012-05-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

Did you know that Henry Ford had a strong influence on the area? Want to learn more about the areas rich heritage? How about exploring one of the many great parks throughout Washtenaw County available to families?

Then take the family to Sharon Mills (5701 Sharon Hollow Rd., Manchester) on Sunday, May 20 for a guided tour (1:00-4:00 p.m.). Learn about the mill’s varied uses over time, view a collection of relevant artifacts, and learn about Henry Ford’s influence at Sharon Mills Park and our community. It's a free tour, a beautiful site and a great way to introduce your children and teens to our outstanding history!

Free Safety Day at Goldfish Swim School

2012-05-14T10:00:00.000-04:00

Swim safely this summer after attending the Safety Day at
Goldfish Swim School Ann Arbor, May 19, 2:00-4:00 p.m.

Swim season will be here before you know it, which means parents everywhere will get nervous when their children get near the water. This Saturday, May 19, the Goldfish Swim School (2107 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor) will help parents breathe a sigh of relief. From 2:00-4:00 p.m. parents can take their kids to a free safety day that will include open swim, The Washtenaw County Marine Safety Division, a bounce house, airbrush tattoos, and much more fun.

Information for this free event was picked up on the Ann Arbor Mom Facebook page and is also posted on the Ann Arbor Goldfish Swim School Facebook page.

Kissing Toads: My Daughter's Obsession

2012-05-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

You'd have to know my daughter to really get this story, but it makes for fun re-telling and certainly will be food for fodder as she grows and I tease her about it.

Yesterday afternoon as I was spending some quality garden therapy – i.e. weeding – I found a toad. Not just any toad, but a toad large enough to handle what I knew was bound to happen. I called to the kids to come over and see it. They immediately did and began squealing with delight at my find, my daughter grabbing it and clutching it in her little hands and running happily away.

The next thing I knew, my children and two friends were running around the back yard with it, playing with it in the playhouse. Playing with it in the sandbox. Playing with it down the slide. The next thing I knew they had a small box, “Toady’s house" and swimming pool made from a bowl from the kitchen. Or should I saw using a bowl that is now formerly from my kitchen.

I certainly worried that the toad might expire from exhaustion, too much “playing” or possibly just from being “loved” too much from my daughter, but the kids seemed to be dong OK with the poor thing.

An hour later I called everyone in for dinner. My daughter of course excitedly ran in, toad in hand.

“Mom can I keep Toady?”

“No honey.”

“Can I keep him for just a little while?”

“No honey. Toady has had enough fun for the day.”

“But I can set him free after dinner.”

“No honey, Toady needs to be put outdoors with his other toad friends.”

“But mom. I can set him free at the soccer field. I have seen lots of toads there.”

“No honey, Toady needs to go back where we found him.”

“Moooom, I would take good care of him though.”

“I know honey, but Toady needs to eat the bugs from our garden. He helps keep spiders and mosquitoes from getting to us.”

I thought that last bit might be an incentive as my daughter hates mosquitoes and spiders. Turns out I was right. My daughter then gave in, carrying the toad outside, to be set free. Or so I thought.

My daughter ran in ahead of my son, quickly washing up and coming to the kitchen, making a quick retreat to close her bedroom door when she saw her brother. It was the shrieking, screaming and yelling that tipped me off that something else might be happening altogether.

It must have been my daughter’s actions that tipped my son off. After he washed his hands he went to enter my daughter’s bedroom. She however was hovering nearby, standing guard and fighting to keep him out. This was when my husband intervened.

He pulled the kids apart and methodically went through my daughter’s bedroom. Toady wasn’t in the Hexbug Hive. He wasn’t in the LPS Treehouse either. He wasn’t even tucked into the Zhu Zhu Pet bed. He was however hidden carefully in my daughter’s pink, frilly “treasure box” covered with a blanket to keep him warm.

My poor pitiful daughter cried hysterically as my husband left her room, taking Toady back into the garden to live. We are now the “worst parents ever” or at least we will be until my daughter finds some new creature to love, play with and give a home!

Butterfly Festival

2012-05-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

Next Saturday, May 19, the entire family can enjoy the Butterfly Festival at The University of Michigan Natural History Museum (1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor). From 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. visit with live Monarch butterflies in each stage of their life cycle.

The kids will get a chance to use microscopes to see what butterfly and moth wings are really made of, and metamorphose into a butterfly when making their very own butterfly wings to take home! After you explore, families can get a chance to get dirty by helping the museum plant new perennials in the butterfly garden.

Touch-a-Truck Event for the Kids

2012-05-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday May 12, 9:00 a.m.-noon, children of all ages can check out the "Touch a Truck" event at Briarwood Mall.

Touch-a-Truck is a free event 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 busses 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.

Last year over 3,000 people attended the free event, and this year promises to be even bigger and better. So be sure to get out and get "touchy".

Incentivizing Summer Reading Programs

2012-05-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

*** Updated for 2012***

It's not a secret to many of my family and friends that I have been frustrated getting my child to read. I still don't understand why reading is not something he enjoys when he comes from a family of fairly avid readers. Thankfully though I'm not against incentivizing his reading - In other words I'll use bribery when necessary.

That's a good thing too because on a recent shopping trip he begged for a toy, so in seizing the opportunity, I decided to buy it and hold onto it until he read a certain number of books to me. Now he been happily reading to me every evening without my nagging him. Now that the end of the school-year is coming close, I have begun to look for summer reading programs that offer incentives.

We participate in the summer reading programs at the local library... I'll be watching carefully for the 2012 programs, however none of the libraries have yet to release that information. As soon as they do it will be posted. For now check out the many great programs otherwise available!

For parents looking at other summer reading programs, fear not. There are MANY free incentives out there to encourage your child to read this summer, just take a look!

Barnes & Noble (3235 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor) - Imagination Destination allows kids to earn a FREE book after reading 8 books and keeping track of them in a reading log. The website still reflects the 2011 summer reading program, however this has been going on for several years now.
Chuck E. Cheese - Kids can earn 10 free tokens when they read every day for 2 weeks in a row. Print the reading rewards form, track their reading and take it into a participating location for free tokens! This incentive does require a food purchase for redemption and it doesn't expire until December 31, 2012.
PBS Kids Summer Reading Challenge - This challenge kicks off on June 6th and includes a FREE six week reading program and the chance for your kids to win daily prizes for their participation. The program also gives mom and dad some great tips to help meet the challenges of getting your child to read!
Pizza Hut - BookIt Summer Reading Program - Students in grade K-5 can read 5 books to be entered into a sweepstakes for great prizes!
Scholastic Summer Challenge - Starting May 1, 2012, Kids can log reading minutes into the Scholastic site to participate in a World Record challenge as well as earn digital prizes!
Sylvan Learning Centers - (1601 Briarwood Circle, AnnArbor) Participate in a free summer Book Adventure program where children (Grades K-8) read grade-level books then take a comprehension quiz. Kids earn points based on how much they remember from reading and can be entered to win many free prizes as they earn points! There are hundreds of books to choose from in all reading levels.

These types of programs are a great way to encourage children to read throughout the summer months to help avoid summer learning loss. I will continue to add programs as I find them, or feel free to let me know when new ones become available!

Free Bird & Wildflower Programs

2012-05-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

Sunday, May 6 would be a fabulous day to get into nature with the family, and Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation is offering two free programs that day to help you out.

Want to explore birds? Then head to West Lake Preserve (Dexter) for a Sunday Morning Bird Walk at 8:00 a.m. Get some early morning fresh air and commune with your feathered friends as they come out to play. This would be the perfect opportunity to introduce the kids to birding too, as beginning birders are welcome. Bring binoculars if you can and be ready to go for a walk.

If looking for wildflowers is your thing, then grab a guide book and head to Park Lyndon (Lydon Township) for a 2:00 p.m. hike into Embury Woods. Hunt for a variety of spring wild flowers and ferns that are growing throughout the area. Meet in the north parking lot at 2:00 p.m.to carpool to the woods.

Both free events would be a great opportunity to get your tots, kids or teens into nature!

Free Events: May Mother's Day Crafts

2012-05-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

I really do love many of the free craft programs available to my children at Michael's (3655 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor) and during May there are several available. The kids will have a great time making mom a special Mother's Day craft for grandma, mom or any other special woman in their life. The events are typically for kids over the age of three and while they are free, many of them require a small purchase. The rest of the materials for the project, and the guidelines are free however. So keep the mess out of the home and make sure to head to your local Michael's for a craftastic day!

Take the "mess" and the kids elsewhere as they get crafty for Mother's Day.
Free events at Michael's is the way to go!

May 4 Mother's Day Frame 6:00-8:00 p.m. - Free Make-It-Take-It with the purchase of a frame.
May 5 Mother's Day Card 1:00-3:00 p.m. - Make your own Butterfly Card for Mom for free.
May 9 Mother's Day Mug 6:00-8:00 p.m. - Make Mom her own special mug when purchasing your own mug.
May 11 Mother Day Card 6:00-8:00 p.m. - Purchase a flower clip and turn it into a unique Mother's Day Card.
May 12 Mother's Day Apron 10:00 a.m. - noon - Purchase a t-shirt or apron and decorate it special for that someone special. Then from noon-2:00 p.m. stay to create a free Mother's Day button.

Free Building Clinics in May

2012-05-02T12:00:00.000-04:00

The free kids building clinics are a great way for your child
to get a sense of accomplishment!

Ahhhh, spring is springing and the April showers bring May flowers... Theoretically that is. With teh unpredictable weather though, May is still a great time to take the kids to one of the free kid's building clinics available at Home Depot or Lowes.

This May there are three opportunities to get the kids in on the action too. The events are mostly geared for kids 5-12.

On Saturday May 5, 9:00 a.m. - noon, your child can make their own planter box for mom during the Home Depot Kids Building Workshop (3300 Carpenter Rd., Ypsilanti). Your child will get their own apron, and a certificate for attending.
On Saturday May 12, at 10:00 a.m. sign your kids up to attend the Lowe's Build and Grow Clinic (5900 Jackson Rd. and 3900 Carpenter Rd., Ann Arbor) to make a Picture Frame Planter Box. Then later in the month, on May 26, sing them up to make their own ice cream truck! In addition to the item your child builds, they can also get their own mini-Lowe's apron and a patch for attending.

May Brings Birds & Flowers Through The Month

2012-05-01T14:00:00.000-04:00

The Hudson Mills Metropark (4800 Dexter Pinckney Rd., Dexter) is offering several wonderful programs to families throughout May. Families can enjoy guided hikes, searching for wildflowers and even birdwatching and then stay to explore the great outdoors in over 1,549 user-friendly acres.

Guided nature programs are some of the best ways to
teach the kids about the outdoors!

Stay for a family picnic, bring the bikes, hike in the woods or simply sit and soak in all that life has to offer. All of the events do require pre-registration 734-426-8211, however they only cost $3 plus the vehicle entry fee for the park. Buy the yearly Metropark Pass though if you are considering several visits!

May Nature Programs at Hudson Mills:

May 12: Bird Hike. - 7:30 a.m.
Bring the family and bring your binoculars to observe bird species seen in the park. The group will record dates, locations, and trends from year to year to see what has changed. It might be a good idea to bring any field guides you have available as well. Wear appropriate clothing too, as you will explore a variety of habitats throughout the park.

May 13: Mother’s Day Wildflower Hike - 1:00 p.m.
Bring mom flowers in a different way by taking her on this beautiful hike. Join an interpreter for this guided hike to discover what spring wildflowers are blooming. This is a free event for mom.

May 19: Birding By Ear - 8:00 a.m.
Explore the way the many bird species sound as an interpreter helps you and the family to explore bird songs for beginners. This program will be indoors and outdoors, so dress appropriately.

May 26: Birding for Beginners - 7:30 a.m.
Bring the kids to explore a bird’s physical aspects, and use the field marks as an easier way to identify your feathered friends. This program will be indoors and outdoors so dress appropriately.

Fairywalk

2012-04-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

Head out in Ann Arbor to explore the many fairy doors during Fairywalk on May 6, 2012. The free event begins at 10:00 a.m. and ends by 4:00 p.m., allowing walkers to explore at their own pace. The routes vary from a 5k to a 10k walk throughout Ann Arbor.

Preregister by emailing the Washtenaw Wanderers at washtenawwanderer@gmail.com or call 734-649-5024. Walk-in registration is also available for the event. The event starts and finishes at the TeaHaus (204 North 4th Ave., Ann Arbor).

Bring your friends and family and have a blast during Fairywalk!

Free Comic Book Day

2012-04-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

Every year on the first Saturday in May kids of all ages enjoy Free Comic Book Day! This year, Saturday May 5th is no exception. In comic book shops across North America and around the world, on Free Comic Book Day, participating shops give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their stores!

For me this is especially exciting since my son will actually sit and read a comic book. So if getting your kid to read means getting them a comic book, then Free Comic Book Day would be the day to do that!

Ann Arbor Area stores participating in Free Comic Book Day:

Fun 4 All - 2742 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti (734) 434-7440
Stadium Cards & Comics - 2061 Golfside, Ypsilanti (734) 434-0283
Vault of Midnight - 219 S. Main, Ann Arbor (734) 998-1413
Comic City - 42727 Ford Rd., Canton (734) 981-3561

Please verify the hours each business is open before heading over though!

Family Fun NIght at the UM Museum of Natural History

2012-04-27T15:00:00.000-04:00

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 May 4 from 5:00-9:00 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.

Weekend Events Round-Up: April 27-19

2012-04-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

We're pretty tied up this weekend taking my children to see the school play, playing soccer and prepping for a Cub Scout Fun Day that I have been planning, but there may be an opportunity for us to get out and about. It seems to be a weekend with fewer activities and events than we are used to, but I really think this is the "calm before the storm". I say that because the calendar from now until the end of the school year has filled up quite nicely.

So what have you got planned for your weekend? Is your planner full or are you keeping it quiet in anticipation of the upcoming events?

For those that want to find something to do in Ann Arbor with kids, check out the weekend event planner.

Saturday, April 28

Take the family to check out a free movie! See Journey2 during the Free Movie weekend at local Quality Theatres, Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.
Get creative at the Grange Jr. Maker Program 10:00 a.m. - noon.
Your preschooler might enjoy the Curious George Storytime event at the Ypsilanti District Library (229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti) at 10:30 a.m. Listen to Curious George stories, sing songs, create a monkey mask, and make a chocolate-covered banana.
Take the teens to the Amigurumi Club at the Ypsilanti District Library 11:00 a.m. - noon.
Free dinosaur tours at the UM Museum of Natural History at 2:00 p.m.
Wander Ann Arbor exploring the mysterious fairy doors of Ann Arbor on a guided tour for Obscura Day. Meet at Liberty Street Robot Supply & Repair (115 East Liberty, Ann Arbor) at 2:00 p.m.
Join PaleoJoe at 2:00 p.m. at the Ypsilanti District Library (229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti) as he brings dinosaurs to life with a T-Rex tooth, a Velociraptor skull, dinosaur puppets, and amazing fossils. This high-energy program will make you feel like you’re actually back in time with the dinosaurs.

Saturday, April 29

Take the family to check out a free movie! See Journey2 during the Free Movie weekend at local Quality Theatres, Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.
Get out and enjoy the El Dia De los Ninos celebration at the Ann Arbor District Library from 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Free dinosaur tours at the UM Museum of Natural History at 2:00 p.m.

My Urban Toddler Fashion Show

2012-04-26T22:00:00.000-04:00

On May 5, 4:00-6:00 p.m. moms and moms-to-be can head to My Urban Toddler (7025 E. Michigan Ave., Saline) for a fantastic Spring Fashion and Accessory Show to see spring and summer clothing lines and accessories for before, during and after pregnancy! The maternity and non-maternity models will be wearing figure flattering outfits accessorized with fantastic jewelry and scarves from the Atlanta Apparel Market.

Attendees will also fine product demonstrations, samples and possibly a special gift! Just because you are pregnant should not exclude you from being trendy.

To reserve your place at the fashion show, be sure to contact My Urban Toddler at 734-944-3628.

Celebrate El Dia De Los Ninos With Your Family

2012-04-26T21:00:00.000-04:00

I never had the opportunity to learn a language until I was in high school, and I'll never forget being introduced to Spanish my freshman year... That same year I visited my uncle in San Antonio and since I was learning Spanish, we were taken across the boarder to experience "Mexico". I actually understood much of what was being said - Well maybe not much of what was being said, but I am blonde and there were a lot of comments about me and my hair which I thought was fascinating.

The Ann Arbor Library celebration El Dia De Los Ninos features
music, dance and refreshments for the entire family.

That's why I am thrilled that my son is being exposed to Spanish in elementary school - He'll even have Spanish every year through eigth grade!

Our library has a bi-lingual story-time on every other Saturday, and unfortuantely we've only been able to attend a few sessions. I did however hear about the El Dia De Los Ninos (Children's Day) happening this weekend at the downtown Ann Arbor District Library which I thought would be fun.

On April 29, the Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor District Libraries have joined forces to offer the FREE family event that will include kids crafts projects, refreshments and even a Mariachi Band - This family event is sure to be Muy Bueno for all!

El Dia De Los Ninos
April 29, 2012 - 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room
Ann Arbor District Library (343 S. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor)
For more information on this event call the Library at 327-8301.

Enjoy dancing, crafts, refreshments and music by -Mariachi Mexico 2000. Join other Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti families on this traditional day of celebrating children in Latin America as the library promotes literacy for all people of all cultural and language backgrounds.

National Mom's Night Out Ann Arbor

2012-04-26T12:00:00.000-04:00

Fellow Ann Arbor Mom's, do you want a break? Perhaps a night out without children in tow? Then Thursday, May 10 is your night - Join other Ann Arbor Mom's for National Mom's Night Out at Briarwood Mall.

From 5:00-8:00 p.m., area Mom's will get an exclusive night of shopping, pampering, socializing, fun, and helpful interactive demonstrations and displays. In the past year's I've even gotten samples and many freebies and with this year's line up of participating retailers, there is sure to be many special discounts and offers. Mom can even enter to win a trip to Florida! Talk about a nice break.

The Briarwood Mall Facebook Page has many more details on the fun, and

free event! So make sure you get out to National Mom's Nite Out

May 10, 2012.

Check out the Spring Flowers This Weekend

2012-04-25T10:00:00.000-04:00

After a walk in the woods today it's apparent that many spring flowers are "spring-ing" forth much earlier than they normally do. So this Sunday, April 29, would be a perfect day to view many of them along the Saline River during a free nature program by the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation.

From 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Draper-Houston Meadows Preserve participants will search for the many wild flowers that bloom in the floodplain forest area and nearby woods. Families will find Blue cohosh, Solomon’s seal, trilliums, Dutchman’s britches and many more species.

The ground may be wet though, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing and shoes/boots than can get wet and muddy.