School vacation week is always press week at the baystateparent office so we'll be working on our May issue while the kids spend some quality time with grandparents and cousins. It's always a juggle but since there is no school, the kids can stay up later to spend some quality time with mom.
Have fun...Carrie, editor
Saturday, April 17 – Sunday, April 25
Saturday 17
Nature-Inspired Suncatchers. Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 10 a.m. – Noon. (Also April 18). Collect an assortment of natural materials from the children’s museum grounds to create a dazzling collage to hang in a window at your home. Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org.
Sundial. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 1 – 3 p.m. (Also April 18). Make your own sundial and track the path of the sun through the spring. Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org
Meet Will Moses and Jay O’Callahan. Eric Carle Picture Book Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 1 p.m. Join folk artist Will Moses and internationally-renowned storyteller Jay O’Callahan as they share words and pictures from their most recent book, Raspberries. Free with admission. picturebookart.org
Critter Day: Animal World Experience. Boston Children's Museum. 11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m. & 1:15 p.m. A $12, C $9, under 1 free. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org.
The Diary of Anne Frank. Boston Children's Theatre. For ages 12+ at the Boston Center for the Arts. bostonchildrenstheatre.org. Ends April 18.
FREE Storytime and Craft. The Harvard Coop, 1400 Washington Ave., Cambridge. 11 a.m. A visit from Peter Rabbit (costumed character), rabbit stories and craft. thecoop.com.
FREE 3rd Annual Bookish Ball. The Harvard Coop, Cambridge. Join the day-long celebration in Harvard Square with events for all ages throughout the store. Enter to win fabulous prizes at the HSBA kiosk. Fun, food and music. Open to all. 617-499-2000, thecoop.com.
Green Fest. Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. A day of family-friendly programs exploring sustainable agriculture, wildlife and habitat protection, and energy conservation, including visits with the spring farm animal babies! Activities free with paid admission to the farm. 781-259-2206, massaudubon.org/drumlin
Lanie’s Nature Activity Day. American Girl. Natick Collection. 3 – 5 p.m. Celebrate the wonders of nature and the fun of gardening with Lanie, the 2010 Girl of the Year! Your girl can get started by sprouting her very own “mini garden” in a seed-starter cup. She can also make a cute seed label for her mini garden and enjoy a garden-themed scavenger hunt, plus other fun activities. For girls ages 8 and up. americangirl.com.
Live Family-friendly Music and Children's Crafts. Hancock Shaker Village, Pittsfield. Plus meet baby animals from 10 a.m. To 4 p.m. daily. A$17, Y (13- 17) $8, Free for children ages 12 and under. 800-817-1137 or hancockshakervillage.org.
Float My Boat. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South St. Noon – 3 p.m. (Also April 18). Kids design tinfoil boats that can float dozens - maybe hundreds! - of pennies in the FETCH!™ Lab, an interactive science station. Ages 5 – 11. $7.50 PP. 401-273-KIDS, childrensmuseum.org.
Slow Art Day. Peabody Essex Museum (PEM), Salem. 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. The PEM joins 46 organizations worldwide in inviting visitors to take their time and take a closer look at art. Championed by Michael Kimmelman, chief art critic at the New York Times, Slow Art Day is part of a global grassroots movement that aims to enhance visual awareness and critical thinking through the act of careful looking. In celebration of the opening of PEM’s newest exhibition, The Kennedys| Portrait of a Family: Photographs by Richard Avedon, Slow Art Day participants will view a selection of artworks that explore themes of power. A casual lunch and discussion follows in the Museum’s Atrium Café. A$15, Sr., $13, St., $11, Y (16 and under) free. 866‐745‐1876 or pem.org.
Welcome Back Weekend. Davis Farmland, Sterling. Meet the newest arrivals and have some fun with all your old Farmland friends. Be a star in Moo Moo’s parade and ride along for Moo-Moo’s first Outback Safari Hayride of 2010. A sweet way to end your day: decorate and enjoy your own cupcake! Call for admission: 978-422-MOOO.
Robin Hood Day. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Robin Hood and his "Merry Men of Sherwood Forest" are the subject of this fun-filled day of demonstrations, performances, and crafts. Adventurous visitors can learn how to use a quarterstaff, once used against the cruel Sheriff of Nottingham, during one hour workshops throughout the day. A $10, C (age 4-16) $7, 3 and under, free.508-853-6015, higgins.org
Sunday 18
Franklin Park Zoo's Party for the Planet. One Franklin Park Zoo, Boston. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.Celebrate Earth Day with crafts, activities, animal encounters, and environmentally-friendly exhibitors. Did you know Zoo New England supports conservation efforts both locally and abroad? A $14, C (2-12), $8, under 2, free. 617-541-5466, franklinparkzoo.org.
The Diary of Anne Frank. Boston Children's Theatre. Last chance for ages 12+ to see this play at the Boston Center for the Arts. bostonchildrenstheatre.org.
FREE Felicity’s Ball-and-Cup Game Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. 2 – 4 p.m. Make Felicity’s world come to life! Your girl can try a game Felicity might have played in colonial Williamsburg. She’ll design her own Ball and Cup Game, then learn how to play. For girls 8 and up. americangirl.com
Felicity’s Birthday Celebration. American Girl. Natick collection. 4:30 p.m. Celebrate Felicity’s birthday in colonial style! Join the celebration and learn about Felicity’s life, enjoy a special meal, and take home a keepsake booklet with activities and journaling pages to help you commemorate this special day. For girls 8 and up. $26 PP, sales tax included. (gratuity not included). Reservations required. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com
Kids Teaching Kids at Wenham Museum. 132 Main St., Wenham. 1 – 3 p.m. Have fun making origami, quilling and pop-up cards with junior artists of New England. A $7, C $ 5. 978-468-2377, wenhammuseum.org
Monday 19
Marathon Monday, Patriot's Day, and First-Official Day of School Vacation!
Dinosaur Dig. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. All Day. Conduct your own paleontology dig in a giant outdoor sandbox. Bring a dinosaur and join in the fun! Sand, tools, and fossils provided. Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org
Go Sustainable. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 1 - 4 p.m. Become a Patriot on this special day and learn about sustainability with Olin College engineers! Explore wind and solar renewable energy, make your own bio-plastic, and participate in design challenges led by the Olin College Engineering Discovery team. Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org
Vacation-week Adventures Camps. Animal Adventures,336 Sugar Rd., Bolton. 9 a.m. – Noon. (Through April 23). Animal Adventures junior zookeeper and dinosaur adventure camp. Hands-on, educational fun for animal lovers and dinosaur enthusiasts!! $40/day. 978-779-8988, animaladventures.net
Boston Marathon. Find a place along the route to cheer on marathon runners with your family! For spectator tips, visit bostonmarathon.org
Boston Marathon Celebration. Boston Children’s Museum. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Celebrate the Boston Marathon with trivia, signs, and more! A $12, C $9, under 1 free. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org.
Jabberwocky. John F. Kennedy Library, Columbia Point, Boston. 10:30 a.m.E xplore the world of Lewis Carroll in this adventure tale featuring stunning puppets and scenery performed by Crabgrass Puppet Theatre. Free with library admission; reservations required. 617-514-1600; jfklibrary.org.
FREE Theater Games Workshop. Atlantis Playmakers, 380 Cambridge St., Burlington. 4 and 6 p.m. A theater games workshop suitable for all ages. Register: studio@AtlantisPlaymakers.com.
A Week of Self Discovery for Girls. Self Discovery Enterprises, Chelmsford Center for the Arts, 1A North Road, Chelmsford. (Through April 23).9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A team of area experts have designed u, ur friendz, ur lyfe =) A Week of Self Discovery, a unique program to address the challenges facing girls entering grades 7 – 9. Includes healthy snacks, hands-on demonstrations and more. Call for weekly tuition. 978-256-9391, aweekofselfdiscovery.com.
Concord Museum Patriots' Day Activities. Cambridge Turnpike at Lexington Rd. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Explore the Why Concord? galleries and the treasures from April 1775 including the famous “one, if by land…” Revere lantern; enjoy a spirited discussion between a British Redcoat and a colonial Militiaman; listen to foot-tapping music by The Jolly Rogues; go on a museum history hunt; visit the new exhibition, Into Your Hands. All free with Museum admission, ongoing throughout the day. A $10, C (6-17) $5 , Ch under 6, free. 978-369-9763, concordmuseum.org
Patriot's Day in Concord and Lexington. For a list of battle re-enactments, memorials, parades, programs, and more, visit battleroad.org. Since events can and do change, be sure to confirm all events before attending!
Selena Gomez Dance Clinic. Gigueres Dance, Giguere Gymnastics, 148 Main St., Leicester. 4:30 – 6 p.m. For ages 5 – 7 (Also April 22 for ages 8+). Come dance to Selena's music and learn some new moves. Watch her dance in music videos, practice some steps and even learn her routine from "Another Cinderella Story." $15 PP. 508-892-3797, gigueregym.com
Braids & Bows. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4:30 p.m. A Doll Hair Salon stylist will share secrets for pulling off a variety of super styles for long or short hair, from fancy braids to ribbon twists. Each girl will also receive a special goody bag with doll hair accessories and styling instructions. $24 PP. Reservations required. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com.
Sparky’s Puppets. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South St. 1 and 2 p.m. Sparky’s Puppets dramatize favorite children’s stories with plenty of humor and audience participation. Watch Brer Rabbit sneak into the vegetable garden. Laugh at the antics of “The Grasshopper and the Ant.” And find out what happens when a pesky goblin tries to outsmart a hard-working farmer. Ages 3 – 11. $7.50 PP. 401-273-KIDS, childrensmuseum.org.
Camouflage! Massachusetts Audubon Society's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, 291 State Highway, Route 6, South Wellfleet. 2 - 3:30 p.m. With a naturalist by your side you will look high and low for the ways different animals use camouflage for survival: from birds to turtles to coyotes. At the end, pretend to be the animals and play a big game of Camouflage! A $8, C $6. 508-349-2615, massaudubon.org/wellfleet.
April Vacation Adventures. Massachusetts Audubon Society's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, 291 State Highway, Route 6, South Wellfleet. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. or 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Through April 23). This is a kids-only program for children in Grades 2-4. Ranges from $22 to $45 per day. 508-349-2615, massaudubon.org/wellfleet
Mass Audubon Camp. Mass Audubon at Broad Meadow Brook Wiildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Through April 23). Every day will feature a new theme with new discoveries and new friends as well. For ages 6 to 11. $45 per day. Register: 508-753-6087, massaudubon.org
Higgins Armory Fun During School Vacation. Higgins Armory Museum,100 Barber Ave., Worcester. Daily activities from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Through April 23). Shield Workshops: Children learn about heraldry and create their own unique heraldic shield. Daily CastleKids Story times:Children learn tales of adventure, from damsels in distress to mighty dragons, through well-known fairy tales. Stories are read to children in the Medieval Great Hall and include The Paper Bag Princess, George and the Little Knight, The Princess Knight, and more.Hands-on History: A personal look at arms and armor. Children try on a gauntlet, handle some mail armor, or pick up a helmet and experience what the “knights and warriors of old” experienced. Live Arms and Armor Show Why armor? Who wore it, who made it, and why are there so many different types? In this interactive program, discover the history of armor, from its evolution from mail to plate armor to its disappearance (and modern reappearance on the battlefield). Volunteers from the audience will have opportunities to help with the demonstration. A $10, C (age 4-16) $7, 3 and under, free. 508-853-6015, higgins.org
Tuesday 20
Bubble Bonanza. Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. All day. Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org
Engineers' Exchange. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Meet a FIRST Tech Challenge robot and its designers from the Acton-Boxborough Robotics Team. Watch the robot maneuver and learn about the design process and competition. Try a simple engineering challenge to experience the design process. Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org
Dance Week. Boston Children’s Museum. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Through April 23). Come learn different styles of dance from all over the world. A $12, C $9, under 1 free. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org
Museum of Fine Arts School Vacation Fun. Museum of Fine Arts,465 Huntington Ave., Boston. Daily from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. through April 23. Explore the ancient world and its mysteries this school vacation week with a wide range of fun, hands-on activities. Take a guided tour through a tomb, participate in an interactive performance, listen to stories, and create your own art inspired by ancient objects throughout the Museum. Vacation week activities are FREE with Museum admission. No registration required. All ages and abilities welcome. Children should always be accompanied by an adult. ASL Interpretation provided Wednesday, April 21. General admission $20, Children free. 617-267-9300, mfa.org.
Earth Day Crafts. Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston. 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Celebrate Earth Day while making a fun craft out of re-usable and natural materials. Your imagination is the limit – piggy banks, nature journals, vases, gift boxes and more! No reservations necessary, program & materials are included with regular admission. A $10, C $5, under 6, free. 508-869-6111, towerhillbg.org
Recycle Mania (For ages 6-8). Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway, Fitchburg.10 a.m. – Noon. Make totems, toys, and more from recycled materials. $18 pp. Discount for multiple bookings. 978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org. Also Painting Without a Brush (for ages 6 – 8 and 9 – 11) and Recycled Reinventions (ages 9-11). Call for times.
FREE Family Hike. Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Jamaica Plain. 1 - 2:30 p.m (Also April 23). Ages 6 – 12 w/A. Bring water and a snack (and binoculars, if you have them); wear sneakers or hiking boots, and a hat. Meet at the Hunnewell Visitor Center. In case of inclement weather, call 617-384-5209, arboretum.harvard.edu
April Vacation Art Camp. ArtSpan at the Munroe Center for the Arts, 1403 Massachusetts Ave., Lexington. 8:45 a.m.- 3:15 p.m., extended day available. (Through April 23). Spend school vacation creating art with ArtSpan! April's theme is "Street Art", with an interdisciplinary and integrated arts curriculum for ages 5-11. Focus on graphic art and/or murals, improvisation, Hip Hop, and ceramics. Youth attend four art classes a day, have snack, lunch, recess, and a great time! Call for fees. 781-862-6040, munroecenter.org
April Vacation Outdoor Adventures. Mass Audubon South Shore Sanctuaries, 2000 Main St., Marshfield. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Also April 21, 22, and 23). Explore nature through programs such as Creatures of the Garden, Arcaehological Adventures, and more. Kids, plan to dress for the weather! $50 PP whole day or $30 for half day. 781-837-9400, massaudubon.org/southshore
FREE Family Fun Day. Natick Collection, 1245 Worcester St., Natick. 10 a.m. Enjoy some magic with Mike Bent's Abrakidabra show. natickcollection.com.
April School Vacation Program. Longfellow Sports Club,203 Oak St., Natick. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. with extended day available. (Through April 23). Swimming, gym-time, arts and crafts, tennis, team games and more!$75 per day. 508 653 4633, longfellowclubs.com
Plimoth Plantation for School Vacation.137 Warren Ave. All Day. (Through April 23). During the week: enjoy Native singing; Colonial singing and dancing; take classes to learn how to better care for Mother Earth; celebrate Shakespeare’s Birthday; learn traditional Native and Colonial games; get hands on across the museum sites or participate in a historic-inspired family overnight program. Family memories worth revisiting again and again begin at Plimoth Plantation and Mayflower II! A $24. C $18. 508-746-1622, plimoth.org
State Ballet of Rhode Island. Providence Children's Museum, 100 South St. 1 & 2 p.m. Enjoy a series of short ballet pieces where classic storybook characters come to life. Dancers will invite children to join them onstage for parts of the performance. Ages 3 – 11. Program free with Museum admission of $7.50 PP. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org.
Wednesday 21
Butterflies. Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 10 a.m. - Noon. Beautiful butterflies made by you! Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org
FREE Lucky Bob Juggling. Beth El Temple Center, 2 Concord Ave., Belmont. 10 – 11 a.m. Register: care.eventbrite.com for free tickets. More info: 781-642-5907 or email mdewinter@care.com.
Dinosaur Adventures. Animal Adventures, 336 Sugar Rd.,Bolton. 9 a.m. – Noon. Dinosaur Adventure Camp for Future Paleontologists. Exciting exploration featuring fossils, dinosaur artifacts, and exciting hands-on learning with live "modern day dinosaurs" such as alligators, monitor lizards, birds, scorpions and snapping turtles! Ages 6-12. $40 PP. 978-779-8988,AnimalAdventures.net
Fun for Families Day. Isabella Stewart Gardner Musuem, 280 The Fenway, Boston. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Storytelling, gallery activities, music, and art-making. Call for admission fees: gardnermuseum.org.
Fun for Families Day. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, 280 The Fenway, Boston. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. The Gardner celebrates April School Vacation Week with a week of fun for all ages--and, midweek, a full day of storytelling, gallery activities, music, and art-making. Admission applies: gardnermuseum.org
The Meeting House and the Siege of Boston. Old South Meeting House, a Museum and National Historic Landmark on Boston's Freedom Trail, 310 Washington St., in Downtown Crossing, Boston. 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Learn about what life in Boston and at Old South was like during the Siege of Boston! Most activities are drop
in. 617-482-6439, osmh.org.
Spring Banners (For ages 9-11). Fitchburg Art Museum,25 Merriam Parkway. 10 a.m. – Noon. Paint and stamp a vertical cloth banner. $18. 978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org. Also Abstract Paper Reliefs (For ages 9-11) and Spring Banners (For ages 6-8). 978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org
Zentangle Workshop. Grafton Public Library, 1 - 3 p.m. For adults and children 8+. Check out this enjoyable and uplifting art form for all ages: zentangle.com. Reservations: 508-839-3089. $5 kit fee applies.
Earth Day Adventures for Kids: NRWA April School Vacation Program. Nashua River Watershed Association, Williams Barn, 160 Chicopee Row, Groton. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.Learn about the incredible natural world around us and what we can do to help protect it. Two adventure days, Wednesday for 4 to 6 year olds and Thursday for 7 to 12 year olds. $35/day.
Registration is required; space is limited. 978-448-0299, or
email LaurenP@NashuaRiverWatershed.org. Also Thurs., April 22.
Story Through Dance Two-Day Art Workshop. First Parish Unitarian Church on the Common in Hubbardston, 2 Main St., Hubbardston. 10 a.m. - Noon. Children ages 6 to 14 are invited to attend an April vacation workshop combining music, dance and creative writing. Creative writing instructor Rhonda Hamer will work with the children to write the story their way. The workshop will use familiar stories such as "The Three Little Pigs" as stepping off points for the children to re-tell stories their way through group writing. Dance instructor/choreographer Renée Carleen will lead the children in creative movement and dance using music of various styles, some written expressly for the stories, as a basis for learning creative movement and dance and re-telling stories using more than words. The two will work together with the children to present an original story, told through dance and music, at the end of the two-day workshop. Parents and community members are welcome to observe the end-of-workshop stories. $12 per student and continues on April 22. To register, contact Rhonda Hamer at 978-928-1314. For additional information, visit maplewindarts.blogspot.com.
FREE Julie’s Earth Day Idea Catcher. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4 – 6 p.m. Celebrate Earth Day the ’70s way! At this special event, girls can learn how to create an “idea catcher” filled with questions and conversation starters about the earth, animals, and the environment. For girls ages 8 and up. americangirl.com
Julie’s Yarn Diamond Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4 – 6 p.m. Weave a pretty yarn diamond, like the ones Julie might have made with her best friend, Ivy, in the 1970s. For girls ages 8 and up. americangirl.com.
Maria Sangiolo. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South St. Wed., April 21, 1 and 2 p.m. Children delight in this award-winning folk singer’s whimsical melodies, witty lyrics and eclectic mix of musical genres. Ages 3 – 11. $7.50 PP. 401-273-KIDS, childrensmuseum.org.
FREE On the Edge with Coolhead Luke. Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., Shrewsbury. 11 a.m. Jen and Colin White, the mother and son duo behind the Coolhead Luke children's book series, talk about the process of publishing a book and read from their newest release. coolheadluke.com.
FREE April Prince Jones Children's Author Event. Sutton Public Library. 10 a.m. Hear Jones' book, “What do Wheels Do all Day?” and “21 Elephants.” 508-865-8752.
Seashore Ramble. Massachusetts Audubon Society's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, 291 State Highway, Route 6, South Wellfleet. 9:30 a.m. – Noon.Explore the area where land meets the sea, searching for animals and plants of the tidal flats or salt marsh (depending on the tide). Using nets, small fish traps, and buckets, you will discover the world of crabs, shrimp, and clams. A $9, C $7. 508-349-2615,massaudubon.org/wellfleet
Frog and Salamander Meander. Massachusetts Audubon Society's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, 291 State Highway, Route 6, South Wellfleet. 2 – 3:30 p.m. Meander along the pond’s edge looking and listening for green frogs, bullfrogs, and other wildlife. Afterwards, head to the swamp and search under logs for red-backed salamanders, spring peepers, or other critters stirring about. A $8, C $6.508-349-2615, massaudubon.org/wellfleet
Me and My Pal Spa Day. Girl Scouts of Central and Western Mass, 81 Gold Star Blvd.,
Worcester.1 – 3 p.m. Make homemade facials, play games, have a healthy snack,
make a craft and try your hand at some beginning yoga. This event is for girls in
grades 2-5 who are not currently registered Girl Scouts.
$15 per couple. Contact Lynn at lchaput@gscwm.org to receive an
electronic version of the
registration form. 800-462-9100 x3604, gscwm.org.
Thursday 22
Nature Walk. Children’s Discovery, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org.
Boston Children’s Museum. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day with activities, performances, and workshops throughout the day. A $12, C $9, under 1 free. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org
African Violets for Young Growers. Bay State African Violet Society and Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr.,Boylston. 1 – 2:30 p.m. Ages 9 – 14. Pot up a young plant to take home and learn
to “put down” a leaf to propagate new plants. Younger children
may attend with an adult companion. $5pp.
508-869-6111, towerhillbg.org.Watercolor Woodlands (For ages 6-8). Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway. 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. Paint a scene of forest plants and animals. $18 PP.978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org.
Clay Creature Pots (For ages 9-11). Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway. 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Sculpt and decorate a clay pot in the form of a creature. $18 PP. 978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org.
Toddler Thursdays. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. 10 – 11 a.m. (Also April 29). Every Thursday explore art, nature & history with your toddler/preschooler. Programs may include stories, art projects, gallery visits and outdoor exploration. Each week is a new adventure! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Register ahead or drop in. For toddler/preschooler with adult: $4. 978-456-3924,fruitlands.org.
Selena Gomez Dance Clinic. Gigueres Dance, Giguere Gymnastics, 148 Main St., Leicester. 4:30 – 6 p.m. For ages 8+. Come dance to Selena's music and learn some new moves. Watch her dance in music videos, practice some steps and even learn her routine from "Another Cinderella Story." $15 PP. 508-892-3797, gigueregym.com
The Sun, the Moon, and Father Time: Learn More About Clocks. National Heritage Museum, 33 Marrett Rd., Lexington. 2 – 4 p.m. Clocks have personality! Join museum staff for exciting gallery activities that explore “George McFadden’s Enchanted Clocks,” followed by craft projects. For children ages 6 and up with accompanying adult. No pre-registration required. $5/family. 781-861-6559, nationalheritagemuseum.org.
Children's Tea at the Asa Waters Mansion. Friends of the Asa Waters Mansion, 123 Elm St., Millbury.
2 – 4 p.m. Celebrate Patriot's Day during school vacation week. John, Paul, George & Ben, written by
Lane Smith, is a storybook treasured by lads and lassies alike. Learn about some of our Founding
Fathers (John Hancock, Paul Revere, George Washington, and Ben Franklin) who would grow up to start a
Revolution. This delightful book, read by a guest reader, weaves historical facts into an amusing story for
children of all ages. Tea Punch, delicious goodies, and some special surprises, top off the afternoon!
A $15,C $12. 508-865-0855 or asawaters.org
Bitty Bear’s Story Time. American Girl. Natick Collection.
10:30 a.m. Preschoolers and their parents can hear a reading of
Bitty Bear’s Story Time, then enjoy an art activity and tasty
treats. $10 PP. For girls 3 and up. Reservations required.
877-247-5223, americangirl.com
FREE Bitty Twins Animal Safari. American Girl. Natick Collection. Noon – 2 p.m. Your little girl can join the Bitty Twins for an imaginary animal adventure! At this fun event, preschoolers can punch-out and color paper animals to take home. For girls ages 3 and up. americangirl.com.
Earth Day. Hancock Shaker Farm, Pittsfield. 2 p.m. This family-friendly event will feature a tour of Hancock Shaker Village’s historic-to-modern green and environmentally-friendly features. Included will be information on sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, architectural design and construction, smart growth town planning, and more. There will be a demonstration of the 1858 water power turbine in Laundry and Machine Shop and up-close investigation of the historic passive solar features of Shaker buildings, compared with Hancock Shaker Village’s new solar photovoltaic array, which generates 89.9 kilowatts, supplies 66% of the Village’s electrical energy needs today, and is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 3.7 million pounds over the life span of the system. Free with general admission. Also visit baby animals from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. 866‐745‐1876 or pem.org.
No Time to Waste. Providence Children's Museum,100 South St. 1 & 2 p.m. Celebrate Earth Day with a hilarious family comedy about trash and recycling. Four 20-minute shows. Ages 5 – 11. Free with Museum admission. $7.50 PP; under 12 months free. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org
Create a Dragon Claw Fossil. Higgins Armory Museum,100 Barber Ave., Worcester. Call for time. Sculptor Hilary Scott helps visitors create a dragon claw fossil to take home. Just as fun as discovering a fossil of your own! A $10, C (4-16) $7, 3 and under, free. 508-853-6015, higgins.org
A Grand Old Tree Earth Day Celebration. Wenham Museum,132 Main St. 1 p.m. Celebrate Earth Day with renowned children’s author and collage artist Mary Newall DePalma as she reads her book "A Grand Old Tree" and leads a children’s collage craft in conjunction with the Paper Capers exhibition. Visit special exhibition Paper Capers: Adventures in Paper Art.Come fold origami, cut a paper silhouette, and create a paper doll chain as you discover the rich history of paper in family life.Book signing to follow. Reserve your book in advance by calling the museum. A$7. C $5. Group rates available with pre-registration. 978-468-2377, wenhammuseum.org
FREE Poetry Read-Out. Frances Perkins Branch of the Worcester Public Library, 470 West Boylston St., Worcester. 7 p.m. Read poetry to one another. Bring your own poems or see what the library has. It's a family event for children and their adults. No registration, just drop in. Refreshments. 508-799-1687, worcpublib.org
Friday 23
Cambridge Science Festival Overnight. Museum of Science, Science Park, Boston.4:30 p.m. – 11 a.m. Thru April 24. Be among the first to experience the Cambridge Science Festival at the Museum by sleeping over on the night before it starts! Students in grades 1 - 7 and their adult chaperones are invited to see what happens at the Museum at night. Discover science in an entertaining, educational, and interactive way through experiments, a Theater of Electricity Lightning! show, an Omni film, and much more. Plus, where else do you have a chance to sleep under a dinosaur or a giant grasshopper? Register early to ensure your spot: $45 PP. 617-723-2500, mos.org
FREE Meet Corduroy. Barnes & Noble, 98 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington. 6:30 p.m. Meet your favorite storybook bear. 781-273-3871.
Silhouette Artists at the Concord Museum.Cambridge Turnpike at Lexington Rd. 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Also on April 24, 9:30 a.m. - Noon. Silhouette artists Jean and Marcella Comerford use their skill with a scissor to cut delightful heirloom-quality portraits that make a wonderful Mother’s Day gift or keepsake. The artists have a monthly column, "Cut-Ups," in Yankee magazine and visit the Concord Museum twice each year. Each sitting is approximately ten minutes. Children ages six months and up and adults of all ages are welcome. $29/profile; $10 additional copies; frames and mats available for sale on day of sitting. By reservation only. 978-369-9763, concordmuseum.org
Dazzle Your Doll. American Girl. Natick Collection. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Also April 29). Your girl will learn fancy salon secrets and five-minute doll ’dos, then decorate a tropical doll outfit that’s perfect for the beach. Plus, every girl will enjoy a meal and take home a doll-sized travel booklet—perfect for dolls on the go! For girls ages 8 and up. $50pp. servations required. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com
The Tempest In A Teapot High Tea. Plimoth Plantation, 137 Warren Ave. 3 – 4 p.m. This family-friendly high tea experience, features scenes from Shakespeare’s MacBeth, performed by the young players from Plimoth Plantation’s weeklong Shakespearean Camp for Kids, as entertainment. $15.95 pp, plus museum admission. Plimoth.org.
Domino Madness. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South St.Noon - 3 p.m. Kids work together to construct amazing domino chains that spiral, zigzag and snake. Ages 5 – 11. Free with Museum admission. $7.50 PP; under 12 months free. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org
Tea Party for American Girls. The Clayground, 65 James St., Worcester. 3 to 4:30 p.m. Bring your favorite doll to paint a tea cup and saucer. Refreshments provided. $21 per person. Reservations required. 508-755-7776, theclaygroundma.com.
Saturday 24
Bessie Suncatchers. Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 10 a.m. – Noon. (Also April 25). Hang it in a window at your home and let the sunlight dazzle your dinosaur creation. Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org
Beany Baby Necklace. Science Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Drop-in 1 – 3 p.m. Make your own special living necklace and watch your baby mung or pinto bean sprout and grow! . Admission to both museums $10.50 PP, under 12 months, free. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org.
Kelsey Flynn is Mother Goose. The Eric Carle Picture Book Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. Sat., April 24, 1 p.m. Join her and her merry minstrels and sing, rhyme, and even dance your way through beloved tales, songs, and poems. Arrive early, paint a picture and see it used in the production. Lots of audience participation! For prices and details: carlemuseum.org.
North Shore Mothers of Multiples Children's Sale. North Shore Mothers of Multiples, Second
Congregational Church of Beverly
35 Conant St., Beverly. 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Toys, gear, clothing and more! $1 admission, age 14 and under free. Members of a mothers
of twins club can shop at 9 a.m. Cash only sale!
nsmom.org
Art in Bloom Family Day at MFA. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The MFA's annual festival of flowers and art, includes a Family Day, featuring nature-oriented
activities for children, as well as special programs and tours. A $20, $18 Sr./St., FREE
(17 and under. 617-369-3169, mfa.org
Junior Ranger Day at Boston Harbor Islands. Boats
depart from Quincy Shipyard and Boston’s Long Wharf. Visit the
stations of Fort Warren on Georges Island. Climb the stairs of
this historic Civil War Fort.Earn your Junior Ranger badge and
picnic. Activities are for children and families.Ferry Fare –
A $14, C $8. 617-223-8666 or BostonHarborIslands.org
Curious George Flies a Kite. Boston Children’s Museum. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn all about the wind, and kites from around the world. . A $12, C $9, under 1 free. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org
Conservation Clues! Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, 11 Divinity Ave., Cambridge. Choice of two 45-minute sessions: 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Why can’t we touch the artifacts in the museum? Why can’t we eat and drink in the museum? Why are some of the galleries so dark? Explore artifact conservation science and the behind-the-scenes role of conservators. Handle and learn about conservation tools. Then join an educator and hunt throughout the museum to find evidence of conservation at work. A$9, C$6. Free with regular admission; advance registration required and space is limited, call 617-495-2916. Recommended for children ages 7-12 with an accompanying adult. peabody.harvard.edu
The ImprovBoston Family Show. Central Square, Cambridge. Every Saturday, 6 p.m. This unscripted show includes improvised singing, dancing, and comedic scenes that are guaranteed to have the whole family laughing out loud. Children can participate! improvboston.com or 617-576-1253.
FREE Cambridge Science Festival. MIT, in collaboration with Harvard, the City of Cambridge, WGBH, and the Museum of Science, Boston. See website for times and locations. April 24 – May 2. The nine-day Cambridge Science Festival features hundreds of events, almost all of them free, taking place throughout Cambridge. The festival promises to make science accessible and engaging through its hands-on workshops, demonstrations, behind-the-scenes tours, talks, performances, film screenings, and more. This year's highlights include: FREE Science Carnival: Saturday, April 24 Noon – 4 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library and Cambridge Rindge & Latin High School Field House, 449 Broadway St., Cambridge. Be “wow”ed by a unique laser show made especially for the festival,then enjoy more than 50 booths of hands-on science demonstrations and activities for children of all ages -- from grade school to teens. cambridgesciencefestival.org.
FREE Storytime & Craft at the Coop. The Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. 11 a.m. Celebrate earth day with stories and a green craft. the coop.com.
Drumming Show. The Tony Fonseca Drumming School, Atrium Mall PlaySpace, 300 Boylston St., 4th Level PlaySpace, Chestnut Hill. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 617-527-1475, email ccole@simon.com.
Earth Day Celebration. Hands On 4 Kidz, 44 Main St.,Gardner. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Re-art in the Creation Station! Learn how to reduce,re-use,recycle in unique ways!Each creation is $4. Bring a canned good and save another 10%. 978-632-2815, handson4kidz.com
FREE Cherry Blossoms. Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Jamaica Plain. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Drop by the Visitor Center for special family activities on the last Saturday of each month, April through October. Activities may include scavenger hunts, science investigations, craft activities, stories, guided walks, andmore—discover something new each month! 617-384-5209, arboretum.harvard.edu
Earth Day Celebration. Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, 55 Coogan Blvd.,
Mystic, CT. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Activities include an aquarium-wide scavenger
hunt and pledge station where guests can make a magnet containing an
Earth-friendly pledge. Guests can also build their own toy boats out
of recycled materials and race them, or play games at various
exhibits that test their recycling and conservation knowledge. All
activities are free with aquarium admission. A $26, C (3-17) $19, 2
and under, free. 860-572-5955, mysticaquarium.org
Sara Wheeler and Little Groove. The Center for Arts in Natick (TCAN), 14 Summer St., Natick. 11 a.m. Groovy and educational music delights both parents and children, with ladybug and fairy costumes and puppets that create a fun vibe. A $9, C under 12, $6. 508-647-0097, natickarts.org
Balls and Tracks. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South St. Noon - 3 p.m. (Also April 25). Create your own designs. Ages 5 – 11. . $7.50 PP; under 12 months free. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org
Animal Makeover Weekend. Davis Farmland, Sterling. Events run 11 a.m. - 3 p .m.Be a stylist for a day! Four different events: start out by brushing a bunny, add some scrunchies and Voila! Next, try painting Jenny the donkey's hooves or even makeover your favorite Farmland goats. Showcase your talent in a parade afterward so everyone can see your wonderful styling! Admission fees: DavisFarmland.com.
23rd Annual Sheepshearing Festival at Gore Place. 52 Gore St., Waltham. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Activities include: demonstrations of sheep-shearing, herding dogs, spinning, weaving, kilt-making and more. Large crafts fair, live entertainment, wagon rides, historic demonstrators, games and farm animals. Food vendors on site. Free parking. No dogs allowed. Children must be accompanied by an adult. A $10, C 12 and under, free. 781-894-2798, goreplace.org
Sunday 25
Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival. Boston Children’s Museum. 11 a.m – 3 p.m. Activities to welcome spring flowers. A $12, C $9, under 1 free. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org.
Blue Discoveries Family Day: Earth Day Celebration. New England Aquarium, Central Wharf, Boston.10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Learn more about the blue planet through art, science, and storytelling. Programs highlight Aquarium favorites as well as hidden treasures.All activities are included in Aquarium admission. 617-973-5200, neaq.org
FREE Molly’s Star Whirler Craft. American Girl. Natick Collection. 2 – 4 p.m. Say “Hurray for the USA!” just like Molly did in her day—learn to make a patriotic star whirler. For girls ages 8 and up. americangirl.com
Molly’s Birthday Celebration. American Girl. Natick Collection. 4:30 p.m. Happy birthday, Molly! Join the celebration and learn about Molly’s life, enjoy a special meal, and take home a keepsake booklet with activities and journaling pages to help you commemorate this special day. $26 PP. For girls 8 and up. Reservations required. 877-247-5223, americangirl.com
FREE People and Spaces Family Day. The Clark, 225 South St., Williamstown, It's a campus wide family adventure, 12 - 4 pm. This free day will explore how people fit into different spaces, places, and settings. Try to keep your bearings in a maze, create detailed clothespin people,
build a miniature museum, climb a wall, and visit the Giovanni Boldini
in Impressionist Paris exhibition. clarkart.edu.
Ongoing
MERMAIDS WELCOME
The Little Mermaid. Wheelock Family Theatre, 200 The Riverway, Boston. Friday 7:30 p.m; Saturday and Sunday 3 p.m. April 16 – May 16. Based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, this adaptation teems with tumultuous characters, dramatic undercurrents, deep emotions, rippling humor, and a titanic battle between good and evil. $25, $20, or $15 On Friday nights children in their pajamas are only $12.
617-879-2300, WheelockFamilyTheatre.org.
ALL DAY ART
April Vacation Workshops. Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway, Fitchburg. April 20 – 22. New! Two-hour workshops. Enroll by the day, morning, and/or afternoon. Children ages 6 – 8 and ages 9 – 11. $18 each child; supervised lunch hour $3 each child per day. Sessions run from 10 a.m. - Noon and 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Topics include Recycling Mania, Painting without a Brush, Clay Creature Pots, Watercolor Woodlands, Spring Banners, and more. 978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org.
FIELD TRIP TO THE PAST
April School Vacation-Apprentice's Week: Spotlight on Stencil Art. Historic Deerfield. April 17 – 25, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Learn about the work of stencil artists who traveled from town to town taking commissions to decorate building interiors. Explore the art of stenciling and make a beautiful and unique stenciled artwork to take home. Visit historic houses throughout the village. At the Apprentice's Workshop at Dwight House, visitors can weave on a loom; use tools used to decorate early ceramics; and try using hand tools in the woodworking area. Special themes: Gallery Sleuths from Mon. - Fri., 1 to 3 p.m. for ages 7+. Explore the galleries during daily art workshops and interactive activities; Multi-Cultural Bridges: A Bilingual Literary Arts and Tolerance Program from Mon. - Fri., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m; Moving Pictures: Creating Animation on Sat., April 24, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 13+. Admission fees apply. deerfield.org.
WORLD OF MUPPETS
FREE Jim Henson’s Fantastic World. National Heritage Museum, 33 Marrett Rd., Lexington. April 3 – June 27. Offers a rare peek into the imagination and creative genius of this multi-talented innovator and creator of Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, and other beloved characters. This intriguing exhibition features 100 original artworks, including drawings, cartoons and storyboards that illustrate Henson’s talent as a storyteller and visionary. Among the variety of exhibition objects are puppets, and television and movie props, photographs of Henson and his collaborators at work and original video productions, including excerpts from Henson’s early career and experimental films. 781-861-6559, nationalheritagemuseum.org
PAPER CAPERS
Adventures in Paper Art. Wenham Museum,132 Main St. Through May 9. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.Come fold origami, cut a paper silhouette, and create a paper doll chain as you discover the rich history of paper in family life. Enjoy intricate paper art made by children's book illustrators Giles Laroche and Mary Newell DePalma as well as historic works of art. A $7, C $5. 978-468-2377, wenhammuseum.org
FAIRY HOUSE AND GNOME HOMES
Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes Workshop. The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, Williamstown. April 17 – 25. Families, youth groups, and members of the community can create their own fairy houses and gnome homes to display on the Clark grounds April 17- 25, during the April school vacation week. To introduce participants to the magic of these tiny dwellings, two workshops will be offered at the Clark on April 17, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3 to 4 p.m. Admission to the workshops is free. The workshops, taught by local artist Ann Kremers, will include a lively, informal presentation and artful examples of fairy houses. Natural materials including moss and twigs will be provided to participants who will create a “miniature” object, such as a piece of furniture or decoration, appropriate for a fairy house. Attendance at the workshop is not necessary to participate in the community installation. During the week-long community art event, the public is invited to build a miniature home for tiny, mythical creatures on the Clark grounds using found, natural materials. A campus map and site assignments will be provided at the information desk. The tiny dwellings will be featured at the Clark’s family day on April 25, when visitors can stroll the grounds to view the houses. Admission is $15 June 1 through October 31. Admission is free for children 18 and younger, members, and students with valid ID. 413 -458-2303 or clarkart.edu.
ROCKING PHOTOGRAPHY
Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 to the Present. Worcester Art Museum, Worcester. Displays the visual expression of rock & roll music with more than 100 photographs of famous rock stars in Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 to the Present. On display are their captured private and public moments, which will be on view through May 30, 2010. worcesterart.org.
LOVE FOR MOTHER EARTH
Earth Week at the EcoTarium. 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tues. April 20 – Sun.,April 25). Lots of exhibits and recycling activities all week plus an Earth Day Festival on Fri., April 23, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. with half-price museum admission. Dance to the beat of the band Chuck and Mud, be entertained by costumed characters, get tattooed (yes they are temporary!), eat fun food and enjoy many more fabulous and festive activities. A$12, C $8. (half price on Earth Day April 23) 508 -929 -2700, ecotarium.org.
CLASSIC FUN
Assumption College presents Oliver! The Hanover Theater for the Performing Arts,
Worcester. April 23 – 25. Based on the Dickens novel, Oliver Twist. Outstanding musical and dance numbers,
“Food, Glorious Food,: “I'd Do Anything,” “Where is Love?,” “Consider Yourself...” etc. Tickets:
877-571-7469, thehanovertheatre.org.
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