Child Care & Preschool Guide

V

FREE MARCH 2014

O

!

E T

p8

12th Annual

Child Care Preschool

Get your crayons ready and take notes!

GUIDE p11 p9

p6

With the Stroke of a Brush Get creative at the Paint Station

Solve the Child Care Conundrum

Find the best fit for your family

p16

Handcrafted Hot Dogs

Detroit Dog Co. serves gourmet dogs with flair

HIRING

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES PART TIME & FULL TIME We offer a fast-paced, fun enviroment with high earning potential for motivated individuals.

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419.244.9859

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• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

Volume 6 • Issue 3 March 2014

departments commentary 15 parent profile

4 community snaps 5 what’s briefly

happinging

6 new kids

on the block

7 tween the lines 7 exceptional families 17 calendar

12th Annual

Affectionately Referred to as Ms. Bonnie

Saline Cooperative Preschool teacher loves where she is, helping toddlers —by Jeff Berry

16 food fight

Handcrafted Hot Dogs

— by Katy M. Clark

p.11

Detroit Dog Co. serves gourmet dogs with Michigan flair

— compiled by Chloe Rotheschild

19 marketplace

We’d like to apologize to Julia

Bathish and Regan Corum for placing the wrong quotes next to their name and photo in the February Education Guide.

Amelie Gold, 5, Ann Arbor

PHOTO BY LESLEY MASON

feature

SOLVE THE

VOTE!

p.8

CHILD CARE p.9 CONUNDRUM

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

3

Adams Street Publishing Co.

S E C S I P KIDS HOROSCOPE

Cute in the community We love to see what our readers are up to!

Send us your pics each month to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com Include your name, age and hometown

February 19March 19

By Sue Lovett

Pisces are the most sensitive sign of the zodiac. They love being held and cuddled. If you can sing a lullaby to the Pisces baby, they are absolutely delighted and devoted to you. They do not like to wear booties or socks, preferring to wiggle their little toes. Loud noises startle the little Pisces and they may have to be held to calm them down. It is as if you are the most important person in the world, perhaps the only person capable of knowing their needs.

Their symbol is two fish and they enjoy their bath and as much time as they can get in the water.

Pisces children are shy in groups.

They “hang back” until specifically invited to join in. They are very musical and enjoy singing and dancing. Even the little boys enjoy participating in these programs. They also swim competitively. They need to be encouraged to be a part of groups.

Ani Chien, 3, Ann Arbor

, Ann Arbor Leila Bank, 7

Asher Bank, 9, Ann Arbor

“What’s your recipe for success?”

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Plenty of sleep!

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Editorial

Assignment Editor: Nadine Hariri (nadine@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Read as much as you can, Never stop learning Calendar: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Sleep and Redbull, Lots of both Social Media Specialist: Brandon Doriot (aspcmedia@gmail.com) All of the Coffee Contributing Writers: Sue Lovett, Jamie Lober, Heather Burcham, Jeff Berry, Lisa Carolin, Katy M. Clark

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Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Coffee and Will Graphic Design: Brittney Koehl (adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Lists, Sleep, Lists, Sleep, and google Calendars Jameson Staneluis (jameson@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Keeping an open mind Kyle Iwanicki: (kyle@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Hot Sauce Sara Welborn: (freelance@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Humor

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Advertising/General Info: For advertising and general information, call (734) 668-4044 or fax (734) 668-0555. E-mail ads to adsin@annarborfamily.com

Ann Arbor Family subscriptions are available by mail for $28/quarterly or $75 per year at Ann Arbor Family, 3003 Washtenaw, Suite 3, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104.

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number.

Entire contents © 2014 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

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Build ing y ou confi denc r child's e at sc hool recycle this paper For our children's future ...

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Send us your best high UPCOMING ISSUES INCLUDE: resolution photos!

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Please include their Name, Age, & Your City

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• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

ty p13

what’s

briefly happening...

Compiled by Jamie Lober

Fiber Fantasy for the Crafty

Bowl for Kids Sake Courtesy of Mark

Gjukich

52nd Annual Ann Arbor Film Festival This is not your ordinary film festival! It is, however, the longest running independent and experimental film festival in North America, running since 1963. You will find something for every age.

Watch your children’s eyes light up as they take in the masterpieces around them. The mission is “to support bold, visionary filmmakers, advance the art form of film and new media and engage communities with remarkable cinematic experiences.” Encompassing more than 180 films from over 20 countries of various lengths and genres, your entire family is sure to find some films to enjoy whether they may be fiction, animation, experimental, documentary or performance-based.

Tuesday, March 25 through Sunday, March 30. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. Contact 734-995-5356 for more information.

You probably never realized that spending a few hours with friends and loved ones at a bowling alley could change a life. Big Brothers, Big Sisters is sponsoring a charity function to raise money throughout the month that will go toward carefully matching a child facing adversity (such as growing up in poverty, living in a single parent home or dealing with parental incarceration) with a volunteer adult mentor who provides support. These lasting friendships can involve educational outings like going to museums, just sitting down and sharing advice or whatever meets the child’s preferences and personality. You can bring the funds you have raised to bowling night as you celebrate your accomplishments as an individual or team!

Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30. Four bowlers per team, fundraise $300 or more per team. Colonial Lanes, 1950 S. Industrial Hwy., Ann Arbor. Contact 734-975-0933 for more information.

Writing in Nature and Writing in Place

This locally focused writing workshop looks forward to welcoming writer Dave Karczynski, University of Michigan MFA graduate and Ann Arbor resident, who won the Robert Traver Award for outdoor writing. He is currently completing pieces on fly fishing in Poland and the night fly fishing culture of the Midwest. Karczynski will be hosted by the Leslie Science & Nature Center, and will provide participants with an exciting opportunity to expand and grow their writing skills.

Sunday, March 16 from 2-5pm. The Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor. Early registration is encouraged at lesliesnc.org/winwip. You can learn more about Dave Karczynski at davekarczynski.com. Free.

Families are invited to come out for a fiber fantasy including wool, linen, cotton, alpaca and more from the plant or animal to the finished product. There will be sheep, goat and alpaca shearing demonstrations and vendors selling used equipment and other items like felted soaps, shoe inserts, llama and alpaca socks, knit mittens and headbands. Kids love learning about

growing and working with natural fibers; creating useful products and just joining with nature. Class themes include hooking a silky flower pin, making an Easter basket, hand painting yarn, silk scarf painting and making a tool basket.

Saturday, March 22 from 9am-5pm and Sunday March 23 from 10am-4pm. $4 for one day; $6 for 2 days. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor Saline Rd., Ann Arbor. Contact Connie Hydel, event coordinator, at 734-546-0032 for more information.

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

5

Get Creative at the Paint Station

Creating lasting pieces and memories through art

By Heather Burcham

Proud painters show off their sun artwork after a session xxx

6

If you are looking for a creative way to beat the winter blues, look no further than the Paint Station. They offer step-by-step painting classes that cater to artists of all abilities, no experience required. The Paint Station, owned by Kendra Wilkins and Catrina Vaughn, opened its doors September 6 of last year as a fun place for relaxation and artistic expression.

Kendra explains what visitors can expect during a session, “Our instructional artist will walk you through the completion of a painting and provide step-by-step guidance in a fun and entertaining atmosphere during two or three-hour art sessions. At the end of each session, you will walk away with your own special artwork that you can display at your home or workplace, creating memories that will last a lifetime.”

Visitors can sign up for classes on the website, and can even rent the facility for a private paint party. It’s an ideal place for bachelorette parties, corporate events, and family reunions.

Kendra shares, “It is our desire that all customers walk away with an unforgettable experience. We want them to feel a sense of accomplishment, that they too, can be an artist.” Visitors can choose from a number of paintings, all of which appeal to a variety of age groups and artistic levels. The Paint Station’s classes are designed for ages seven and over, making for a great family day activity.

Ann Arbor is the perfect home for the Paint Station, according to Kendra.

“As educators in the community, we agreed that the Paint Station would be a great fit within the rich culture of Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County.” All artists are professionally trained and passionate about sharing their love of art with the community.

For more information, and to sign up for classes, visit the Paint Station’s website at paintstationart.com. The Paint Station, 3227 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor.

• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

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Celebrating 60 Years of Helping Disabled Children Patti Nowak and The Arc of Livingston accommodate those with disabilities

By Lisa Carolin

THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16

Sharing their Legacy Skyline High School students produce Legacies Project for CTN

By Heather Burcham

Students engage community elders for crash courses in video production and history Family advocate Deb Calandrino extends her help to Donnie Conway Empowering people with disabilities, and their families, is the mission of The Arc of Livingston. The nonprofit is celebrating its 60th year of providing family support and advocacy.

Patti Nowak, director of The Arc, has held her position for the last eight years. She was formerly the director of the Arc of Central Michigan in Mt. Pleasant. As the parent of a child with chronic health and learning needs, Patti says, "I am passionate about making changes in the community in which we live and making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities."

The Arc was initially founded to help people with developmental disabilities become a part of the community, she explained. "Parents didn't want to put disabled children in institutions, but needed help keeping them at home."

The Arc is an informational clearinghouse for questions related to developmental disabilities. The four staff members have children with disabilities and work to provide resources which allow people to get the services they're entitled to.

"It's taken many years of working with other agencies to get to this point,” Patti said. We provide services including transportation, education and employment to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities.”

Word of mouth has helped The Arc of Livingston reach more people in the county during Patti’s eight year tenure.

"When I started, we worked with 250 families a year," she said.

"Last year we worked with more than 1,000 families. We wouldn't be here if the community wasn't supportive and didn't want to include people with disabilities."

Patti says the most important work that The Arc of Livingston does is "to support and advocate for families and connect them with the resources they need to be a part of the community and to have the best quality of life."

Students in Skyline High School’s Communication, Media, and Public Policy Magnet (CMPP) program are collaborating with the Legacy Project to air interviews with local senior citizens on CTN, the Community Television Network. The project, called Skyline Hour: Stories from the Legacy Project, features a collection of interviews with participating seniors, revealing personal stories from their lives and commentary on their experience of history.

The project is led by Skyline’s Patricia Jenkins, lead teacher of the CMPP program. According to Patricia, the Legacies Project is how CMPP juniors are inroduced to the basics of video production.

“An added bonus of the project is that they’re learning about real history through the lives of a real person.

It’s very transformative.”

Jimmy Rhoades, co-founder of the Legacies Project, is not only thrilled that students are sharing their interviews with the community, but also that they have the opportunity to know and value the community’s seniors.

“Most people would agree that we’re a pretty youth-obsessed society, and the consequences of that can be a kind of pervasive, underlying age-ism. The best way to combat that is with engagement,” explains Jimmy. “Students have more positive attitudes about aging and seniors. As a result, we hope they will carry those improved attitudes with them as they become future leaders and decision makers.”

CTN’s Melissa Cohn-Bondy is also thrilled to have students involved in CTN programming.

“I anticipate that the Skyline Hour could be weekly, if not daily.

It’s all dependent on the school and students and how much content they bring to us. We would rather have more than less! This is the start of a great partnership.”

Watch Skyline Hour: Stories from the Legacy Project on Channel 18 or online at a2gov.org/watchctn.

For more information on the Legacies Project, visit legaciesproject.org.

The Arc of Livingston, 1044 Durant Dr., Suite 1, Howell. Call 517-546-1228 or email pnowak@arclivingston.org for more information.

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

7

Let the Good Times Roll Place for winter fun ..........................................................

Activity for rainy days .......................................................

Summer day camp ............................................................

Dance class .......................................................................

Martial arts program .........................................................

Art studio ..........................................................................

Music class ........................................................................

Free activity ......................................................................

Family-friendly fair or festival............................................

Picnic spot .........................................................................

Kid’s theater .....................................................................

Place to volunteer .............................................................

Park or playground ...........................................................

Spot to read a book ..........................................................

Swim lessons .....................................................................

Water park .......................................................................

Vacation spot ....................................................................

Family-friendly gym .........................................................

Gymnastics center .............................................................

Bowling alley ....................................................................

Place to see animals ..........................................................

Tween activity ...................................................................

Free thing to do ................................................................

Sports camp ......................................................................

Local toy store ..................................................................

Kid’s photographer ............................................................

Piece of Cake Place for a birthday bash ...................................................

Family-friendly entertainer ................................................

Place to get birthday cake ..................................................

Shop to buy birthday presents ...........................................

Boutique Bliss

Support group for moms ...................................................

Mom-friendly play date .....................................................

Place for single parents to mingle ......................................

Parent blog .......................................................................

Date night restaurant ........................................................

Place for pampering ..........................................................

Grown-up getaway ............................................................

Mother’s Day festivities .....................................................

Pediatrician ...........................................................................

Pediatric practice ...................................................................

Place to nurse a baby ............................................................

Emergency care ....................................................................

Place to give birth .................................................................

OB/GYN ...............................................................................

Midwife .................................................................................

Family doctor ........................................................................

Optometrist ...........................................................................

Chiropractor ..........................................................................

Allergist ................................................................................

Nutritionist ............................................................................

Veterinarian ..........................................................................

Dentist/Orthodontist .............................................................

Vision care ............................................................................

Dermatologist .......................................................................

Watch me Grow!

Yummy in my Tummy

Kid’s clothier ......................................................................

Kid’s shoe shop ..................................................................

Maternity clothing store .....................................................

Place for furnishing the baby room ....................................

Local baby boutique shop ..................................................

Mommy Time

Preschool ...........................................................................

Place for tutoring/Learning center .....................................

Teacher and their school .....................................................

Elementary school ..............................................................

Middle School ....................................................................

After-school program .........................................................

Extracurricular activity .......................................................

Special needs services ........................................................

Daycare .............................................................................

Drop-in childcare ...............................................................

Name...................................................................................................................................

City/ST/Zip..................................................................................................................

Address.............................................................................................................................

Email....................................................................................................................................

Rules: 1. You may only vote once. 2. No answer should be repeated more than three times. 3. A minimum of 30 questions must be answered for your ballot to be eligible. 4. Your name and email address must be included.

5. No ballot stuffing! No photocopies! (We will discard any ballots that we suspect are fraudulently submitted.)

Deadline: Tuesday, April 15, 2014, 5 p.m.

8

What’s up, Doc?

Bakery .................................................................................

Family-friendly restaurant ....................................................

Place to have ice cream ........................................................

Healthy fast food ..................................................................

Local pizza place ..................................................................

Place where kids eat free ......................................................

Natural food store ................................................................

All About Us Favorite thing about Ann Arbor Family .....................................................................

New ideas you’d like to see in Ann Arbor Family .........................................................

Best Ann Arbor Family column ....................................................................................

Reason to visit www.annarborfamily.com ....................................................................

For display advertising call Emily at 419.244.9859 or email sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com Space reservation deadline May 15th Winners announced in the June issue of Ann Arbor Family

Please mail completed ballots to 3003 Washtenaw Ave Attn: Family Favorites, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Or vote online at annarborfamily.com!

• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

Childcare & Preschool Guide

Solve the Child Care Conundrum Considering child care options through different lenses can help you find a solution that best fits your family

By Beth Fornauf

Daycare, and nannies, and au pairs, oh my! There are a myriad of childcare choices available to families today, but figuring out which option is best is no easy task.

Parents of young children have a particularly difficult job, because care providers for children under two are not as prevalent as those for older children. Because babies have more needs than older children, they require a higher level of care. That translates to higher costs for care centers and parents.

Deciding on the right care setting for your little one is a big decision, requiring careful thought, research and planning. Before you decide which option is best for you, consider the following factors.

Money

Parents know that childcare will be expensive, but few are prepared for the shock of the actual dollar amount – even for those seeking part-time care. Looking at the total cost of childcare per month can be scary. But stay calm. This is an important investment, so re-examine your family finances before making any decisions.

Determine a monthly range that your family can afford. For example, if you figure you can spend around $800 per month, are you prepared to spend $900 if a certain month has an extra week? Will you be able to spring for incidentals such as field trips and fundraisers? Always give yourself a cushion for unexpected tuition changes, occasional nights out (and hiring a babysitter), or little odds and ends that arise.

Flexibility

While flexibility in the workplace is fairly common, especially for parents of young children, it isn’t yet an option everywhere. When you decide on a child care solution you also need to take into account your work schedule.

What will happen if your child gets sick? Are you able to leave work early or arrive late? Also consider schedule conflicts. Daycare centers may close on certain holidays when you have to work.

A babysitter or nanny may get sick at the last minute and not be able to make it. Create a realistic back-up plan that you, your family and your employer can live with so you aren’t scrambling to handle surprises that may pop up.

Expertise

No one is going to care for your child in exactly the same way that you do. Even if you have family members or the most agreeable baby-sitter in the world, there are bound to be some differences. And that’s not a bad thing. Kids need to learn to adapt to different people’s personalities and preferences, while also expressing their own. Just make sure your expectations for behavior and meeting basic needs are consistent.

The reality is, expertise with young children is not easy to come by. Laws vary by state regarding teacher-student ratios for children under two; as a result, many daycares don’t accept infants. When you find a person or center that feels right, ask about the experience of individuals who will interact with your child. What is their educational background? How long have they worked with kids of this age? Are they certified in infant First Aid/CPR? Parents need to weigh how important these things are to them, and determine their deal-breakers.

Health

Most pediatricians will tell you that the average child gets between four and eight colds per year. This doesn’t seem so bad, but when you realize that most of them will happen between late fall and early spring, and that a “cold” can last up to two weeks, it may start to feel like your child is perpetually sick. As a result, you are constantly stressing, missing work, or scrambling for last minute care.

If your child is cared for in a setting with other children, chances are she’ll have a few unexpected visits to the doctor, or at best a very runny nose. While the general consensus is that the first year in a daycaretype setting is the worst for sicknesses, the ailments don’t end after that. If your child is particularly sensitive to seasonal illnesses, you may want to find a temporary one-on-one care solution, or review the sanitation procedures at the daycare.

If you have a nanny, find out upfront if she is comfortable caring for a sick child. You don’t want to find out on your way at the door that your baby-sitter doesn’t know how to take a temperature or is nervous about giving medicine.

Good help isn’t hard to find (if you know where to look)

These are just a few ideas from parents who’ve been there (and found what they were looking for) n Drive around your town and look for signs for preschools or daycares (they’re the type of places you may not notice until you need one)

Talk to people at work or even the local library; if you live in a small town, word of mouth is often your best bet

n

Check out online sites like Care. com, craigslist, or even your local newspaper

n

Visit coffee shops or bookstores, anywhere with a message board; baby-sitters often place business cards or fliers here

n

Call the local public school.

Often principals, teachers or office staff will know of a local care center or parent looking for part-time work

n

n Hang up fliers at nearby colleges, and include your contact information.

If you can, locate the building where education or early childhood classes are held so you can find students interested in working with little ones

Philosophy

This is probably the single most important aspect when choosing childcare for young children. Because your child will be spending a lot of time with his caregiver, he’ll be learning a lot of behavioral and problem solving cues. You need to figure out how the caregiver’s philosophy on learning, setting limits, and maintaining schedules, matches up with your own.

This can be sticky regardless of what type of care you have. Make a point to observe your child in the setting for an hour or so before committing. You can also ask his teacher or babysitter how they handle certain situations like tantrums and conflicts. The conversation may be awkward, but at least you’ll know if you are on the same page.

Finding quality care is possible if parents do their homework. Take a good long look at each of these areas before making a commitment. But don’t stop there. Revisit these topics periodically to make sure your child care solution is meeting your child’s needs and making sense for your family.

Continued on page 10

It’s It’s right right here! here! You You can’t can’t miss miss it! it! VOTE VOTE TODAY! TODAY! www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

99

PROS&CONS

Continued from page 9

The Breakdown: pros and cons of some popular childcare solutions

Child care center/daycare:

What it looks like – Your child attends a group child care setting with other children of a similar age PRO – Child care centers have strict regulations, so the staff is usually certified in First Aid/CPR, and the child-caregiver ratio is low. Many centers also require their caregivers to complete an early childhood certification program, so they are trained in working with young children.

CONS – Your child will probably contract more than her fair share of viruses, especially her first year.

Because there are several children per adult, your child may have to adjust to a group schedule of feeding and napping that may differ from the one at home.

Nanny or babysitter:

What it looks like – Your child receives care from an individual in your home PRO – Your child has the undivided attention of a caregiver in a safe, familiar place. It also makes maintaining a feeding and napping schedule easy.

10

CONS – Lack of socialization. As your child gets older, you may want him to interact with other babies or toddlers, not just adults, to learn about sharing, taking turns, etc.

Family member:

What it looks like – A grandparent, aunt or uncle, or other family member cares for your child in your home or theirs.

PRO – Family members have a personal relationship with your child, so it’s probably the closest thing to having you there.

CONS – If your family member doesn’t agree with your way of doing things, they may do what worked for their kids. They may feel more comfortable doing their own thing without consulting you.

Au Pair:

What it looks like – Au pairs are typically young female nannies who live in your home and work up to forty hours per week caring for your children.

PRO – Because most au pairs come to America from another country, they introduce new cultural perspectives and ideas to your children. If you go through an organization like Au Pair in America or Interexchange, the candidates are pre-screened. Often the overall cost is less per hour than traditional babysitters or nannies.

CONS – Having someone enter your home (and your lives) for a year is a big commitment. You need to make sure you and your family are prepared for this. Most au pairs commit up to one year, so you’ll have to repeat the process again next year.

Hybrid: What it looks like – A combination of any of the options listed above PRO – You can customize care to meet your needs, and possibly save money.

Your child gets to experience different settings, and learns to socialize with a variety of people.

• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

CONS – Change can be confusing for children, and if your hybrid schedule isn’t regimented, your child’s routines (eating, sleeping, etc.), may suffer.

Beth Fornauf is a freelance writer and mother of two.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Temper tantrum remedy: Acknowledge

Early Learning Center

3070 Redwood Ave., Ann Arbor 734-973-7722 elcpreschool.com Ages accepted: 30 months- 5 years old Student/teacher ratio: Caterpillar Room (30 months- 48 months) 7:1, Butterfly Room (4 years): 9:1

what the child is angry or frustrated about, then calmly reinforce the limits. For example if you have a child upset because they want to go outside without cleaning up and they have thrown themselves on the ground, you would calmly walk over to them and say, “Outside, outside. You want to play outside.” Wait for the child to look at you, then say, “We will go outside but first we are going to clean up. Would you like to clean up the blocks or the animals first?” Repeat as needed.

, or ham or nuts, with a fruit, and glass of milk

Brainy breakfast? Egg

Number of students: At any one time, 32 children are in the building Average class size: 3’s: 14, 4’s: 18 Transportation available? No Potty training available? No Special programs: Early Bird Drop off from 8:15am-8:45am, Lunch Bunch where children bring their lunch and get an extra 45 minutes. We also offer music, cooking, and reader’s theater extension classes.

Best chil

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Alexander oren’s book: My Nam Jennifer Fosbr My Name is not Isab e is not ella by err y

Little People’s University

2946 St. Aubin Ave., Ann Arbor 734-971-3802 littlepeoplesuniv.com Ages accepted: 2 months-5yrs.

Student/teacher ratio: Infants/Toddlers 4:1 - Preschool 8:1 Pre-Kindergarten 10:1 Number of students: 30 Average class size: Infants- 4; Toddlers- 8; Preschool- 8; Pre-Kinder- 10 Transportation available? No Potty training available? Yes

Favorite way to

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Through lots of song ach the ABC’s: hands on activities, s, fingerplays, and such as shaving cream writing, puzzles , matching games, letter hunts Recipe for success: Children truly succeed both cognitively and socially when you combine highly trained and degreed staff, low child-teacher ratios, family involvement and play with a purpose all placed in a preschool setting

Brainy breakf

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GUIDE

Toddlers grow up fast!

Get them ready for our area’s most promising preschools and child care centers Leslie Science & Nature Center 1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor 734-997-1553

s book: Polar Expres Best children’s Favorite way to teach ABC Throug s:

!

Getting kids outside

lesliesnc.org

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Ages accepted: PreK-12

Calming, g ilin sm , ing talking softly, hugg

remedy: Temper tantrum

Recipe for success: We are a learning program and believe that children’s minds are like sponges, the y absorb anything we teach them. We are pleased whe n our children learn so much and can remember what the y have learned.

ess:

Recipe for succ

Student/teacher ratio: Program specific Number of students: Program specific Transportation available? No

Best children’s

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include We have a lot! They uss, “The Lorax” by Dr. Se n, and “Hoot” by Carl Hiaase tain” “My Side of the Moun orge

by Jean Craighead Ge

Potty training available? No Special programs: That’s what we do! We offer field trips to our site and outreach programs for classrooms. Programs that we teach include “Beaks, Feathers, and Talons”, “Where Animals Winter”, “Hunters of the Sky”, “Walking up the Food Chain” and many more! Many of our programs include our resident raptors and critters.

Continued on p.12

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

11

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Continued from p.11

Lamaze Family Center

6299 Ann Arbor Saline Rd., Saline 734-429-0685

2855 Boardwalk Dr., Ann Arbor 734-973-1014 lamazefamilycenter.org Mission: Established in 1967 our mission is to empower, educate and support families from pregnancy to preschool Special programs: Our childbirth classes do not focus on the hee hee ho ho breathing but focus on education and informed decision making.

Parent Toddler Groups get your little one used to the routine and rhythm of a preschool while maintaining the security of being with a parent. For just $5, you can attend Drop In Playtime or Drop In Arts and Crafts. Leave the mess to us and just come play!

Our New Mothers Groups won the Ann Arbor Family Press’s Best Mother’s Support Group the last four years in a row! We offer many free services to the community including our Miscarriage and Newborn Loss Support Group, family scholarships and community education. Partnership classes with Kindermusik and Signing Smart are also held in our center. We have seasonal family events including Mother’s Day Tea, Halloween Costume Party, Cookies with Santa and more!

12

Saline Cooperative Preschool

: Winter Tale by Best children’s book

er In the Woods Robert Sabuda and Strang ick Sto n Jea & II

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to te music like Hap Palm ach ABCs: Using salinecoop.org Alphabet and Harry, er’s Marching Around the activities engage the the letter-eating Bear. Both Ages accepted: 3, 4, 5 intellectually without child physically as well as Student/teacher ratio: 5:1 if full he/she failed if he/s making the child feel like he doesn’t know. class Number of students: Max. 16/class; wn at child’s remedy: 1. Get do school-wide max. 48 Temper tantrum ild to take deep breaths (do nt when level 2. Encourage ch Average class size: 12 N to child’s complai this together) 3. LISTEfer two acceptable, alternative Transportation available? No able to voice it 4.OfHonor child’s choice choices to child 5.

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nd Music Hand in Ha Ct., Saline 10276 Normonie 734-429-3385

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• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

St. Francis of Assisi Preschool

2250 E. Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor 734-769-2550 stfrancisa2.com/school-community Ages accepted: We have one preschool classroom. Must be 4 by October 1. We also have optional after-school care.

Student/teacher ratio: 7.3 to 1 Number of students: Room is licensed for 22 Average class size: Classroom has typically been full most days every year we have run the program.

Transportation available? No Potty training available? No, children must be potty trained to attend Special programs: Optional afterschool care. Care available on most no-school days Best children’s book: Anything Pete the

Cat

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Ann Arbor YMCA

400 W. Washington St., Ann Arbor 734-996-9622

annarborymca.org

Ages accepted: All Stars- 2½ -3½; Aviators- 3½ -5; Half Day Pre-K- 3½ -5; SACC- K-4th grade Student/teacher ratio: All Stars5:1; Aviators- 8:1; Half Day Pre-K- 8:1; SACC- 12:1 Number of students: All Stars- 16; Aviators- 23; Half Day Pre-K- 11; SACC60 Average class size: All Stars- (per day) 14; Aviators- (per day) 20; Half Day Pre-K- (per day) 11; SACC- (per day) 45 Transportation available? All Stars- No; Aviators- No; Half Day Pre-KNo; SACC- Yes from some downtown schools Potty training available? All StarsYes; Aviators- No; Half Day Pre-K- No; SACC- No Special programs: All Stars- Storytime at the Downtown library on Wednesdays; Aviators- Swimming on Tuesdays & Thursdays; Half Day Pre-K- Swimming on Wednesdays; SACC- Swimming on Fridays & Pokemon Club

Daycroft Montessori

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PM Snack Served; Aviat served; Half Day Pre-ors- AM & PM snack SACC- PM snack se K- AM snack served; rved e lf Ha ”; ord liff “C ors Big Red Barn”; Aviat about Science!; SACCDay Pre-K- Anything read Whatever they like to

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StarsLetter of the Week; Av Half Day Pre-K- Song iators- Alphabet Line; s; SACC- Reading Temper tantrum remedy: All Stars-

Sensory; Aviators- A quiet place; Half Day Pre-K- A quiet place; SACC- A quiet place

Transportation available? No Potty training available? Must be toilet trained Special programs: Afterschool specials available- karate/science/art class

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100 Oakbrook Dr., Ann Arbor 734-930-0333

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ABCs:

Continued on p.14

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

13

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Continued from p.13

The Discovery Center 775 S. Maple Rd., Ann Arbor 734-663-7496

thediscoverycenterpreschool.com Ages accepted: 2 ½-5 years of age Student/teacher ratio: 8:1 and lower; each classroom has 3 “key” teachers whom all have four year degrees in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Early Elementary Ed., or a related field. Teachers are with us an average of 10+ years Number of students: We are licensed for 180 and we have 6 classrooms- 4 full day/one half day (AM/PM) and a developmental kindergarten program Average class size: between 18-24 each day M-F Transportation available? No Potty training available? We don’t require potty training, so yes, we help with the process Special programs: Weekly Spanish, monthly music and storytelling experiences.

We have been nationally accredited through NAEYC since 1991 and we are currently celebrating our 40th birthday as a program in Ann Arbor!

14

• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Ann Arbor Preschools 2775 Boardwalk, Ann Arbor 734-994-2303

Recipe for

annarborpreschool.com Ages accepted: 4 year olds Student/teacher ratio: 8:1 Number of students: 16 Average class size: Maximum of 16 Transportation available? No

success: Lea lifelong process. The Ann Arbrning is a Schools Preschool is design or Public year preceding Kindergarten ed for the rooms are led by certified . All classteachers with early childhood endorsement Ann Arbor Preschool curricu s. The with the AAPS elementary lum aligns following the Creative Curriccurriculum, ulum and Everday Mathematics.

Affectionately Referred to as Ms. Bonnie Saline Cooperative Preschool teacher loves where she is, helping toddlers

By Jeff Berry

Potty training available? No Special programs: STEAM Fridays Before and After School Childcare

Ms. Bonnie is beaming alongside her little learners at Saline Cooperative Preschool

Summer Camp

Guide

Show Ann Arbor parents where their kids could have the BEST summer ever, & get a FREE listing!

APRIL

Issue Date: APRIL 1 reserve ad/edit space

by Friday, Mar. 14 Call today to reserve your space! 734.668.4044

Since 1959, Saline Cooperative Preschool has offered a teacher-guided, parent-involved, activities-driven learning environment for preschoolers ages three to five. The driving force for the last ten years has been Bonnie Jacques, affectionately referred to as Ms. Bonnie.

“My role in the class is to call the activities, giving the kids a variety of experiences, academically, socially, emotionally, and physically,” Bonnie said.

“The parents’ role in the class is to engage in those activities.”

Bonnie’s fascination with babies has been with her since adolescence and she always played teacher growing up. It wasn’t until she took a child development class at Michigan State University that she recognized her professional calling.

Bonnie walked into Saline Co-Op with 12 years of teaching experience and looking for a new challenge.

Honesty and observation “My favorite part about working with young children is their honesty and worldly observations,” Bonnie said.

“Working in an environment where you are always being observed encourages you to reflect and evaluate daily and has made me a better teacher.”

The nonprofit Saline-based school is operated by member parents and an elected school board. Parents volunteer their time to run the school efficiently on a rotating schedule. They spend, approximately, one full day per month in the classroom, giving students time to learn how to separate from them.

“Co-op is unique in the way that it’s reasonably priced because parents are working in the classroom and they tend to be more involved, which is a healthier environment for the children,” she said. “There are a lot of good Head Start programs for young children, but Saline Co-op makes it reasonable for parents with young children to provide this educational experience without taking a big bite out of their wallet.”

Three age related programs The three programs Saline Co-op offers are divided by age and playtime.

Three-year-olds attend “3am”, four-yearolds attend “4am”, and four and fiveyear-olds who will attend kindergarten the following year enroll in “Kindergarten Readiness.”

All programs focus on socialization and conflict resolution, while “4am” and “Kindergarten Readiness” include numbers and other cognitive lessons.

“Kids attending Kindergarten after experiencing our school tend to have a better understanding of what’s expected of them. They take responsibility for their personal items, they have better self-confidence, and they’re familiar with the environment and the process of attending school,” Bonnie said. “I’m fascinated with the way children learn and I love helping them see all the possibilities that this world has to offer.”

6299 Saline Ann Arbor Rd., Saline. Saline Co-op’s tuition rates are based on total enrollment annually. www.salinecoop.org.

734-429-0685.

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

15

THE SHORT COURSE

Handcrafted Hot Dogs

Detroit Dog Co. 103 N. Ann Arbor St. Saline, MI 48176 Phone: (734) 323-7927 Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-8pm; Closed Sundays www.detroitdogco.com

Detroit Dog Co. serves gourmet dogs with Michigan flair

By Katy M. Clark

Bacon. Deep-fried pickles. Avocado. These are not your usual hot dog toppings.

However, there’s nothing usual about the hot dogs served at Detroit Dog Co. Opened last December in downtown Saline, Detroit Dog Co. offers more hot dogs than it does seating. There are nearly a dozen creations to choose from despite only eight bar stools for dine-in seating.

Owner Catrina Vlisides elevates the hot dog from mundane to gourmet with creations like the Mexicantown, a hot dog topped with chorizo, avocado, tomato, jalapeños, cheddar and sour cream. The restaurant’s interior, albeit small, is as fresh as the menu. Brick walls are painted bright white, with the exception of one adorned with a mural of a 40s-inspired pin up. Detroit Dog Co. takes pride in offering Michigan products. The restaurant serves Dearborn hot dogs, Faygo pop, Ed’s Bread buns, Calder Dairy ice cream, McClure’s pickles, and Better Made chips.

The Original, Rock City, Mich and Boblo Island BBQ After scanning the menu, my ten-year-old selected The Original sans mustard and onions ($2.99). My seven-year-

16

old ordered a Rock City stuffed with cheddar, wrapped in bacon, and deep-fried ($4.49). The Rock City comes with chipotle aioli sauce, which is spicy, so we opted to leave it off.

My husband chose The Mich topped with hand-cut fries, cheddar and Detroit chili sauce ($5.29). I debated between the Slim Shady, with deep fried pickles, cheddar, grilled onions and mustard, and the Boblo Island BBQ, with sweet and savory coleslaw, BBQ sauce, and onion rings. I picked the Boblo Island BBQ ($4.59) with a side of deep-fried pickles. We also ordered hand cut fries to share.

Each of us stayed with the Dearborn hot dog, a big dog with natural casing, although we could have substituted a Polish, turkey or veggie dog. The kids got bottles of Faygo pop to drink while my husband and I shared a jug of water that we poured into Mason jars. Even the water was hip!

When we dined on a Saturday at 6pm, it was busy and only our kids got seats at the counter. In fact, the restaurant was so busy, it ran out of regular buns and substituted pretzel buns. I liked the chewy denseness of the pretzel bun, which provided support to my messy, but delicious, concoction of coleslaw, onion rings, and BBQ sauce. I found The Boblo Island more sweet than savory, but excellent nonetheless. The fried pickles were tangy and decadent; the fries soft and flavorful.

• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

Kid-friendly: Yes To avoid wait: There are only 8 seats.

At any time, it may be crowded or you could have the whole place to yourselves. Try take out, too.

Noise level: Moderate Bathroom amenities: None, make the kids go beforehand.

High chairs? No Got milk? Yes, white or chocolate plus Faygo pop Kids menu? No, but most kids like hot dogs, right?

Anything healthy for kids? Turkey or veggie dogs are available instead of the standard Dearborn hot dog Food allergy concerns? There’s not an allergy they can’t accommodate or work with. One chef is allergic to dairy himself and knows all ingredients well. Feel free to call ahead to discuss your concerns.

Gourmet dogs coming to Ann Arbor My daughter ate half her Rock City before declaring herself full. My ten-yearold loved the pretzel bun, but not so much the natural casing on his dog. He seemed afraid of the curly casing ends, which I hacked off. Then he devoured everything.

For dessert, we tried deep-fried cookie dough and deep-fried brownie chunks topped with powdered sugar and whipped cream (both $3.49). While the fried brownie was decadent, the cookie dough was our favorite, an explosion of warm, gooey goodness. “I like the cookie dough,” my seven-year-old declared.

If it is difficult to make the journey from Ann Arbor to Saline, never fear. Detroit Dog Co. plans to expand into Ann Arbor soon.

Katy M. Clark is a freelance writer from Saline.

3 MONDAY

March 2014 Shamrocks & Shenanigans Conor O'Neill's / Sunday, March 9 Race toward St. Patty's Day at the Shamrocks & Shenanigans 5K Run & Walk as you help raise funds for Save-A-Heart.

The race will feature a Kids' Dash, a Kids' Kilometer and a 5K run/walk. Children will feel the spirit as they run to the finish line during the 1K dash, where a medal and delicious ice cream await their arrival.

The first 2,000 entrants for the race will receive a race shirt, and there will also be Shamrocks & Shenanigans pint glasses for the first couple thousand finishers.

Save-A-Heart is an organization that raises much needed funds to benefit patients and families who come to the Michigan Congenital Heart Center at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital. Registration required. Kids' Dash, $20/ Kids' Kilometer, $25/ 5K Run/ Walk, $40 (prices are $5 cheaper before March 7). Registration begins at 7:15am, first race at 9am. Conor O'Neill's, 318 S. Main St. runshamrocks.com —MLR

1 SATURDAY Preschool Yoga - Enjoy stories, puppets and movements that promote coordination and flexibility. For children 2-5 years old.

10am. Pittsfield Branch, 2359 Oak Valley Dr. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free Storytelling with Computer Animation: 5 Elements of a Story Use visual programming technology to create an animation that emphasizes the 5 elements of a story. No prior experience is needed. For adults, teens and pre-teens (grades 5 and up). 3-5pm. Downtown Library Training Center, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Party - Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss! Celebrate this legendary author’s 110th birthday with games, crafts, stories and delicious birthday cake.

For ages 4-8 with an adult. Registration required. 2-3pm. Chelsea District Library: McKune Room, 221 S. Main St., Chelsea.

734-475-8732. chelsea.lib.mi.us Free Discover Crochet Kids: Crochet 2 - Create special zipper pulls for your backpack by learning chain stitch, foundation row and single crochet stitch. For children ages 8 and up.

Register online. Bring your own supplies.

12-1:30pm. $15. Michael’s, 3655 Washtenaw Ave. 734-975-6774. classes.michaels.com Kids Lab Experiments - All ages can get hands-on experience with conducting experiments, microscopic exploration and other demonstrations every Saturday and Sunday throughout the day in the Centennial and Cell Labs. Museum admission. Michigan Science Center, 5020 John R. St., Detroit. 313-577-8400. mi-sci.org

2 SUNDAY Family Friendly Film: How to Train Your Dragon - Bring your dragons (or just bring your kids) to this fun family matinee. 1:30pm. Free for ages 12 and under.

Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org Winter Hike, Potluck and Nature Sharing - Start with a short hike and then share food around the fireplace. Consider bringing 10-15 slides of your favorite

nature photos to share. Vehicle entry permit required. 10am-2pm. Independence Lake, 3200 Jennings Rd., Whitmore Lake.

734-971-6337. ewashtenaw.org Free Critter Open House - Observe frogs, turtles, snakes, rabbits, and more as they hop, crawl, and slither in their homes.

Animals include species native to the region as well as unique and exotic animals.

12-3pm. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Free Family Class: Pies - Learn how to make great pies from scratch and have lots of fun while doing it. Registration required.

1-4pm. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.com Kids: Crepes 101 - Start with basic crepes, add fillings and then top them off with whipped cream. For ages 8+. 1-3pm. $50. Ann Arbor Cooks!, 5060 Jackson Rd. 734-645-1030. annarborcooks.com Comic Artists Forum: Jerzy Drozd Presents Podcasting To Reach New Audiences - Jerzy Drozd, author/illustrator of “The Front”, has worked on “Antarctic Press,” “Ninja High School,” and projects for Marvel Comics. He has produced podcasts, teaches cartooning workshops, and is a co-founder of the annual Kids Read Comics festival. This forum is for comics enthusiasts and cartoonists. Bring your drawing tools and drop in for learning, drawing and sharing. For grades 6+ and adults.1-3pm. Downtown Library: 4th Floor Meeting Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free Metro Parent Summer Camp Expo - Discover great summer opportunities for kids and teens in southeast Michigan, while enjoying a free day of exploration at the Michigan Science Center. 12-3:30pm. Michigan Science Center, 5020 John R. St., Detroit.

313-577-8400. mi-sci.org Free Seuss Crafts for Read Across America Day - Celebrate reading and Dr. Seuss’ birthday with a craftastical adventure of Seuss-y projects based on Dr. Seuss’ most beloved books. Think cats! Think hats! For ages 3-10. 1-2pm.

Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

Tiny Tots: Doctor Seuss on the Loose Decorate a truffala tree and make Yurtle the Turtle towers to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birth month. Registration required. For children ages 1-3 with an adult. 10-11:30am. $7.

Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

4 TUESDAY Mardi Gras Mascarade - Dress as your favorite book character or make a craft costume at the library. Prizes for all!

Registration required. For ages 2-4. 10:3011:30am. Saline Library, 555 N. Maple Rd., Saline. 734-429-5450. saline.lib.mi.us Free

5 WEDNESDAY Young Explorer Days: “A Person’s a Person, No Matter How Small” - Enjoy a unique play date in Kids Town with a story time, a special science-themed activity and socialization time. Reservations required. For ages 2-5 with an adult.

10-11am. Museum admission. Michigan Science Center, 5020 John R. St., Detroit.

313-577-8400. mi-sci.org

Storytelling with Computer Animation: Creating a Character Use visual programming technology to create an animation featuring different character types. No experience needed. This program is for adults and teens. 3-5pm.

Downtown Library: Training Center, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free Michigan Mammals by Skulls and Skins - Learn about many of Michigan’s furry animals. Learn to look at skulls to ID them and discuss some of the neat adaptations animals have that help them survive.

Ages 7-11 with an adult, 1-2pm/ ages 12+ with an adult, 2:30-4pm. County Farm Park (Platt Rd. entrance): Field Operations Bldg., 2960 Washtenaw Ave. 734-971-6337. ewashtenaw.org Free

9 SUNDAY

6 THURSDAY

FrenchieSkate 2014 - FrenchieSkate 2014 is an opportunity for fans to see some of the US and world’s greatest figure skating stars, many of whom live and train in Michigan, perform together following the Sochi 2014 Olympic Games and prior to ISU World Championships 2014. 5pm.

Yost Ice Arena: The University of Michigan, 1116 S. State St. 734-763-TKTS.

7 FRIDAY

Story and Craft Time: “Splat the Cat” and “Grumpy Bird” - Fun with storytelling and crafts! This program corresponds with the Michigan Theater’s March 16th Not Just for Kids performance of The Teacher from the Black Lagoon and Other Story Books. This event is for children in preschool-3rd grade. 2-3pm. Malletts Creek Branch: Program Room AB, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

Lecture And Hands-On Writing Workshop: Emerging Writers Workshop: Red Pens & Rewrites This workshop will cover revision processes from the complete plot arc down to the last serial comma. For adults and teens, grades 6+. 7-8:45pm. Downtown Library: MultiPurpose Room, 343 S. 5th Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org Free

Creative Connections - March’s Creative Connections event will take you to the Creativity Lab where you can get creative, enjoy some mingling and refreshments. Registration required. 5-7pm. FLY Children’s Art Center, 40 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. 734-213-2733. flyartcenter.org Free

Family Dining: Pasta Sunday - Chop, cook, eat. Each student will make a batch of pasta dough and then work in pairs to roll it out. Registration required. For ages 8+. 2-5pm. $75 for 1 child and up to 2 family members. Ann Arbor Cooks!, 5060 Jackson Rd. 734-645-1030. annarborcooks.com

2014 Family Reading and Science Workshop: Present Day Predators and Prey: Maintaining the Balance Go on a journey through time and explore the strategies that predators and prey have used to try to keep a leg up on the competition. This workshop will explore how to monitor the health of those relationPrincess and Superhero Fantasy Fun ships and what we can do to maintain the Night - Dress up as your favorite princess balance. This workshop is for ages 6-11 or superhero for a special evening of danc- with an adult. Registration required. 1pm.

Museum of Natural History, ing, crafts, a nail salon, tattoo parlor and light snacks. Registration required. 6:30pm. 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0480. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh Free $8-$10. Saline Rec Center, 1866 Woodland Dr., Saline.

734-429-3502. cityofsaline.org MONDAY Rock the 80s Skate - All invited to wear spandex and skate to hair bands and monster ballads. 7:15-8:45pm. $6/ under age 17 & seniors age 60+, $5/ $1 discount for city residents + $3 skate rental.

Buhr Park Ice Rink, 2751 Packard Rd. 734-761-7240.

10

8 SATURDAY Old Time Maple Sugar Festival Learn how maple syrup is made, enjoy a pancake and sausage breakfast, take a guided walk and see the various methods of collecting sap and how it is boiled down to make syrup. 10am-4pm. Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea. 734-475-3170. wnha.org Free Fancy Nancy Party - Hear a Fancy Nancy story, decorate a tiara and make a beaded bracelet. Take part in a fashion show and then enjoy cupcakes and punch.

3pm. Ypsilanti Library: Michigan, 229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti.

734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

School’s Out Program - Tour the University of Michigan football stadium and see the press box where the announcers present the game, a suite where fans get to sit and relax and eat amazing food.

For children in K-5th grade. Registration required. 7:30am-4pm. JCC Member rate per child, $40/day Non-Members, $65/ day. Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, 2935 Birch Hollow Dr. 734-971-0990. jccannarbor.org

11 TUESDAY Little Critters: Red Hawk - Explore the 5 senses from a birds eye view.

Registration required. 10-11am & 11amnoon. $5. Howell Conference & Nature Continued on p. 18

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

17

Continued from p. 17 Center, 1005 Triangle Lake Rd., Howell.

517-546-0249. howellnaturecenter.org

14 FRIDAY 24th Annual Home, Garden & Lifestyle Show - More than 100 area exhibitors show and demonstrate products and offer information on home improvement services. Concessions are available.

Through Sunday, March 16. $5/ kids age 12 & under, free. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. 734-996-0100.

Fun Day Mini Camp - No school? No problem. Spend your day off at the Rec Center and participate in games, sports activities, swimming, arts & crafts and more. Be sure to pack a lunch, snack, swim suit and towel. Registration deadline is 3 days prior to the Fun Day. 7am-6pm. $44-$59. Saline Rec Center, 1866 Woodland Dr., Saline.

734-429-3502. cityofsaline.org

15 SATURDAY Special Story Time with the Humane Society of Huron Valley Enjoy this special story time with the Humane Society of Huron Valley and their adoptable pets.

This program will keep your tot engaged through stories, activities, crafts and animal interactions. For ages 2-5. 11am. Nicolas Books: Westgate Shopping Center, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com Professor Ray’s Everyday Science: Air Apparent - Participants will explore principles relating to air pressure and apply them in all sorts of interesting ways, from crushing a can to levitating objects in this interactive demonstration. 1pm & 3pm.

Museum admission. Ann Arbor Hands On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org Nature Tales: Rabbit Tales - This naturally unique story time will feature Snow Rabbit Spring Rabbit, as well as one of the fuzzy hopping friends. For ages 1-5 years old with a caregiver. Registration required.

10-11am. $3. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Spring Party - It’s been a tough winter, but spring is almost here! Bring your little one (6 months to 3 years) to Lamaze to celebrate the arrival of spring with activities and crafts highlighting growth and renewal. 9:30-11am. $10. Lamaze Family Center, 2855 Boardwalk. 734-973-1014. lamazefamilycenter.org Bedtime Math: Glow-in-the-Dark Party - Children solve offbeat math problems and build geometric creations with glow sticks and styrofoam balls. 2pm.

Barnes and Noble, 3235 Washtenaw Ave. 734-973-0846. barnesandnoble.com Free Family Reading and Science Workshop - Come to the library for this science-based workshop and story time.

Registration required. For participants ages 6-11, accompanied by a caregiver. 2-4pm.

Ypsilanti Library: 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free Almost the Worm Moon - Hike the trail to the wetlands and back, talk about seasonal changes and look for the moon.

Snacks and hot drinks around the fire at the end of the hike. 7:30-9:30pm. Park 18

• March 2014 • www.annarborfamily.com

Lyndon, North Lot, 18801 N. Territorial Rd. Chelsea. 734-971-6337. ewashtenaw.org Free Owl Prowl - Night hikes, owl calling and visits with live owls will fill the evening with wonder. For all ages. Registration required. 7-9pm. $8/individual, $30/family. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

16 SUNDAY Writing For Nature/Writing in Place Local guest authors discuss their craft and how their surroundings, particularly the natural world, impact what and how they write. This workshop is designed for writers of all levels and will include both directed and freeform discussion. Registration required. This event is for teens and adults.

2-5pm. Individuals: $10/ $5 for LSNC Members. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

21 FRIDAY Taste of Saline - Celebrate the many talents of Saline area citizens and businesses, while enjoying musicians, artists, and performers from the area. 6-9pm. $25 per person/$40 for two. Saline Main Street, 131 E. Michigan Ave STE #E, Saline.

734-316-2119. salinemainstreet.org

22 SATURDAY Predators and Prey Discovery Day Explore the interactions of predatory animals and their prey from prehistory to today with activity stations and special guests. 9am-5pm. Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh Free

23 SUNDAY Build Your Own Telescope - Be a modern-day Galileo as you make your own working telescope with astronomy buff Meg Gower. Registration required. 2pm. $2, person/ $5, family + supplies $8 per telescope. Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea.

734-475-3170. wnha.org Parent/Child: Sunday Baking Come in from the cold and warm up while baking a trio of treats. For ages 6+ with an adult. Registration required. 1-3pm. $65 for Parent + 1 child/$85 for Parent + 2 children. Ann Arbor Cooks!, 5060 Jackson Rd. 734-645-1030. annarborcooks.com The Planets - Explore the final frontier through music as the A2 Symphony Orchestra performs space-themed pieces (Star Wars, 2001) with special guests. Preconcert activities begin at 2:30pm. 4pm. $8, kids/ $12, adults. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-994-4801. a2so.com

28 FRIDAY Mermaids and Mateys - There will be a real mermaid swimming in the leisure pool. There will be mermaid tails to try on and swim in and an ocean themed craft. For Mateys: At home, build a boat big enough to sit in using nothing but cardboard and duct tape. Bring it in and paddle across the pool before it falls apart.

One adult must be in the water with each boat as they tend to be very unsteady in the water. The inflatable pirate ship will be in the lap pool. There will be treasure hunts and a chance to walk the plank. This is a family event, adults are expected to be in the pool so everyone must pay except children 2 and younger. Children 6 and younger must have an adult in the water with them at all times. Saline Rec Center, 1866 Woodland Dr., Saline.

734-429-3502. cityofsaline.org

29 SATURDAY Brick Bash 2014 - Bring the family to a celebration of everything LEGO. There will be fabulous creations, stop-motion videos made using LEGOS, LEGO jewelry and a performance by Skyline Drumline at 2pm.

11am-6pm. $5, person/ $20, family.

Skyline High School, 2552 N. Maple Rd. brickbash.com Felt Flower Fun - Make a variety of flowers that don’t require water! This event is for grades 6+. 2-3pm. Malletts Creek Branch, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free Children’s Activity Day at the Market - Children will have fun with story time, activities and getting their faces painted. 10am-2pm. The Old Winery Farmers Market, 31505 Grand River Ave., Farmington. 810-837-1727. theoldwinerymarket.com Free Nature Fun for Kids: Spring Welcome - Welcome the green buds and chirping birds as the northern hemisphere leans once again towards the sun. Search for signs of nature’s renewal in celebration of the spring equinox! Registration required.

Registration required. For ages 4-7.

2-3:30pm. County Farm Park, 2210 Platt Rd. 734-971-6337. washtenaw.org Free

marketplace ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE Free Classifieds: Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free services.

Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, E-MAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Ann Arbor Family Press. Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

Line Classifieds: Only $10 per month for 20

words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.

Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

ANNOUNCEMENTS The Newcomers Coterie Club of Ann Arbor provides a friendly social contact for new and returning residents to the Ann Arbor area, as well as a new social outlet for established residents. Visit annarbornewcomersclub.com FAMILY DAYS - THE PAINT STATION - Unleash creativity, have fun and paint with your family. Create memories that will last a lifetime. Ages 7 & up w/adult. Registration required. Every Saturday beginning Oct 5. from 12-2 pm. $25 per person.

The Paint Station, 3227 Washtenaw Ave, Suite G. 734-477-6963. www.paintstationart.com FUN FREE Fitness! M & W 6:30pm off Packard Rd. All ages & skill levels welcome. www.nutritionbychoice.com 734-707-7697

EVENTS

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ages 1-7 $1.00. Sponsored by the Dexter Area Historical Society & Museum, a 501©3 organization. For more info: www.dextermuseum.org.

734.426.4961 FAIRS & FESTIVALS NEED PEOPLE TO ATTEND. We market your event to over 1 Million readers for only $150!!! Visit www. midatlanticevents.net for more details or call 800-450-7227.

EDUCATION ARE YOUR CHILDREN INTERESTED IN ASTRONOMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars? GO TO www.YoungAstronomer.org HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FROM HOME. 6 - 8 weeks.

ACCREDITED. Get a Diploma.

Get a Job! No Computer Needed. Free Brochure 1-800-264-8330 Benjamin Franklin HS

HELP WANTED

Mom2Mom Consignment Sale - March 15th at Liberty School, 7265 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline. 9-2 pm, $1.00 entry. More info at:

CHRISTMAS AT THE MANSION on Dec 7 & 8 from 10:00a -4:00pm at Gordon Hall, 8341 Island Lake Rd., Dexter MI. View displays by the Ann Arbor Railroad Club and visit with Santa while enjoying refreshments. Suggested donation: adults $5.00 and kids

STRESS REDUCTION, DEEP TISSUE, CMT 15 years of experience, into.

Massage special $45/ hr. AA Northside.

Call Jane 734-741-0761 Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call today 1-800254-4073, for $10.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.

LOTS & ACREAGE ABANDONED FARM 5 acres – State Land - $16,900 6 acres – Farmhouse - $99,900 Gorgeous So. Tier, NY hilltop location! Fields, woods, stream, pond,30 mile views!

EZ owner terms!

(888) 738-6994 newyorklandandlakes.com

SERIOUS MOMS WANTED. We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/phone essential. Free online training. www.iworkforfreedom.com

10 acres - $24,900 or $318/month!Borders State Land, woods, views,So. Tier NY! Twn rd, G’teed buildable!

Call 888-738-6994 or newyorklandandlakes.com

$1,000 WEEKLY or more guaranteed salary mailing our financial company letters from home. No experience required. FT/PT. Genuine opportunity. Rapid Advancement. Free Information (24/7) : 1-888-557-5539

Car Insurance $19/Month Any Driving Record or Credit Type. Canceled? No Problem.

Free Quote and Instant Coverage insuredirect.com Toll-Free 888-800-2312

FOR SALE

mom2momconsignmentsale.com Just scan the code using your phone to join the list!

Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of

Garage Kits and Pole Barns - We manufacture, we ship direct, you save. www.apmbuildings.com 888-261-2488

FOR RENT MYRTLE BEACH, 33 Acre Gated Ocean Front Resort. Book Directly From Owner. 6-Pools, Tennis, Lazy River, MORE! 412-965-0408 www.myrtlebeach9.com

SERVICES

Lifecoach Q.August/ CueTheCoach LLC. Themed Parenting Workshops Superhero or My House Is A Zoo Free w/$25 supply kit purchase www.

CUETHECOACH.net Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring.

Call Today! 1-800-955-2716

Call Rachellyn at 419.244.9859 HEALTH to sell your stuff today

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2014 •

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