Ann Arbor Family Press - October 2018

FREE OCTOBER 2018

The Fall Guide: Packed with over 50 things to do and places P10 to visit this fall!

Open House Guide Part 1: Find your child’s P14 dream school

Can I get a Twitch account?: What you should know about the popular website

P19

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• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Volume 24 • Issue 10 • October 2018

Ask the Expert Where to celebrate Halloween, pick your fall favorites, and find the tastiest treats with a few tricks thrown in

The Fall Guide and HalloWeen Happenings P.10

departments ann arbor favorites

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#showandtell

5

what’s briefly happening

6

new kids

7

tween the lines

8

exceptional families

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healthy kids 16 parent profile 18 digital age 19 calendar 21 marketplace 23

commentary

OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

Your guide to this fall’s area school open houses

Part 1

P.14

Online Community Ensemble Theatre Cultivates its Own Family

Ann Arbor Water Department deals with PFAS in city water

By Erica Bloom

[Always online] Looking for a unique theme for your child’s next birthday party?

Check out our guide, packed full of birthday inspiration from local families.

Restaurant In Dexter

Bomber Restaurant serves great food and welcoming atmosphere

By Julie and David Sturza

2. Ten Halloween Party Games For Teens Or Tweens 3. Six Outstanding Cider

From the Fields of Ireland Win The Field, a creative and imaginative open-ended play toy from Ireland.

Inspired by the fields in Ireland, the toy comes complete with hedging, a meadow, a hinged farm gate, and a farming play pack. The Field toys allow children to create their own farm scenes encouraging creativity, and problem solving. Perfect for hours of indoor play during the coming winter months. The set is designed for ages three and up.

To enter visit annarborfamily.com

Mills And Orchards In The Ann Arbor Area

Join us and our 1,500+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

FIND LIKE & FOLLOW US recycle this paper For our children's future ...

giveaway

What’s in the Water?

1. Chela’s Opens New

Anchoring Ypsilanti Through the Decades

OCTOBER

By Emily Slomovits

most read online

P.18

Ann Arbor High School theatre program helps students and their talents to flourish

BIRTHDAY GUIDE food fight 20

Wurtzel Family Dentistry’s tricks for Halloween treats

On the Cover Claire, 4, Ann Arbor Favorite Book: It’s The Bear! By Jez Alborough Favorite place to visit in Ann Arbor?: Burh Pool What do they want to be for Halloween?: Bear

annarborfamily.com www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

Brynn, 18 mos, Ann Arbor Favorite Treat: Fruit Slushies Favorite Book: Baby Touch and Feel Animals

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An inside look at what we’re loving for parents this month

Adams Street Publishing Co. What was your best or worst Halloween costume?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WORST: A HOBO...I HATED IT BUT MY MOM LOVED IT BECAUSE IT WAS EASY.

Who will you rescue?

Bathe, blow dry and comb your mystery pet to transform it from a matted scruff ball into a cuddly plush friend. Now your child can adopt their very own blue mystery Scruff-ALuvs pet. Scruff-A-Luvs are adorable, cuddly buddies looking for a good home. You never know what you’re going to get; it could be a puppy, a kitten, or a bunny! Each set features a blue plush character, brush, collar, hair clip, and adoption certificate. Wash, dry, brush and reveal, and then fill out your adoption certificate to welcome your new pet into your home. $24.99 learningexpress.com

The sky is falling

The addictive puzzle game that started it all, Tetris®, is now available in a hand-held throwback arcade format. The Tetris Arcade Game provides intellectual sport (yes sport!) that combines continuous fun with mental stimulation. As one of the most recognizable and influential video game brands in the world, it’s no wonder why there are hundreds of millions of Tetris products being played, worn, and enjoyed. This version features original sounds, joystick controls and a four color screen. $26.99 shoptherocket.com

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: RAGGEDY ANDY.

KIDS HOROSCOPE Sept. 23Oct. 23

By Kimmie Rose Your Libra child likes life to have balance, as they are natural peacemakers.

This month they will be unusually quiet and detached. It’s important as a parent to know your child isn’t depressed or sad, but that they are spending some time alone getting to know their own likes and dislikes. Because your little Libra holds the scales of balance, it is important to honor their need for silence but to also give them a way to communicate by putting up a whiteboard or designating a notebook to communicate with each other through words and pictures. This is the month to get your little Libra out, giving those things he/she is quietly contemplating within a healthy outlet.

Advertising

Sales Manager John Renda jrenda@adamsstreetpublishingcom BEST: BASEBALL PLAYER. Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: HIPPIE CHICK. Sales/ Classifieds Trilby Becker (tbecker@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WORST: A SPARKLE FAIRY, WHERE I COVERED MYSELF WITH SPARKLES AND FAIRY WINGS. Ron Katz (rkatz@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: HARPO MARX.

Editorial

Assignment Editor Laura Eliason

(laura@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WORST: DRESSED AS TRUMP BECAUSE THOUGHT HE WOULDN’T WIN. THEN HE WON. JOKES ON ME. Calendar Estar Cohen (calendar@annarborfamily.com) BEST: AMELIA EARHART. Associate Editor Athena Cocoves (athena@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WORST: MIMI FROM THE DREW CAREY SHOW. Contributing Writers Laura Eliason, Kimmie Rose, Mary Rose Kulczak, Julie Sturza, David Sturza, Estar Cohen, Lori Maranville, Katy Clark, Reagan Nelson, April Huard.

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WORST: PILL BOTTLE. Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: VAMPIRE. RED CONTACTS AND DENTIST MADE FANGS! Graphic Design Anita Tipton (atipton@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WORST: A HOBO, BUT EASY FOR MY MOM. Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN- REAL HAIR WEAVED INTO CHICKEN WIRE TO STAND UP. Norwin Lopez (nlopez@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: EDWARD SCISSORHANDS.

Administration

Accounting Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: POISON IVY.

Womanly wits and wiles

In this highly anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestselling The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue, Felicity Montague must use all her womanly wits and wiles to achieve her dreams of becoming a doctor—even if she has to scheme her way across Europe to do it. Author Mackenzi Lee’s The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy tells the story of Felicity’s return to England with two goals in mind—avoid the marriage proposal of a lovestruck suitor from Edinburgh and enroll in medical school.

Perfect for tweens in search of a book filled with adventure, feminism, friendships, scientific ambition, and yes, pirates! $18.99 nicolasbooks.com

We’re celebrating kids and family

#a2kids

on Instagram!

Want to be featured on our IG? Use the hashtag #a2kids and your pictures could end up on our page.

FIND LIKE AND FOL LOW US

Distribution Tracy Kimble (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: MADE THEM MYSELF, SO THEY WERE ALL GOOD TO ME!

Digital

Web Guru Deanna Woods (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BEST: A BUNCH OF GRAPES. BALLOONS EVERYWHERE.

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 ©2018 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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• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

recycle this paper for our children's future ...

We’re always looking for great photos to fill our #showandtell page! Send your favorite moments to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Cole 12, Ann Arbor.

Hattie 4, Ann Arbor.

Lake Michigan, by durlingstephany, Ann Arbor.

Super Star, Ann Arbor, by rlevko.

Back to School Contest Winners.

Arkan 2, Ann Arbor.

Joseph 16, Ann Arbor.

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE OUR WEEKLY E-NEWSLETTER TO ENTER CONTESTS AND GET THE “SCOOP” ON WHAT’S HAPPEINING AROUND ANN ARBOR AND WASHTENAW COUNTY

www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

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Compiled by Laura Eliason

Expanding science education to all classrooms Denise Kratz, a science teacher at Explorers Homeschool Association in Ann Arbor, has received a $4,000 STEM research grant from the Society for Science & the Public, which is dedicated to the achievement of young scientists in independent research and to public engagement in science. The Society’s STEM Research Grant Program supports educators who are implementing fresh and innovative teaching methods to shed light on discoveries that can be made through original STEM research projects. Kratz is unique amongst the grant recipients as she is serving homeschooled students.

Meeting once a week, Kratz’s homeschool co-op looks to peak interest in STEM for homeschool students who often lack the resources of students in traditional schools. She plans to purchase a multitude of microscopes, a laptop, and Raspberry Pi’s to stimulate her students’ research. She says, “the goal of our program is to pique interest in STEM among the homeschool community. Many of these students lack the resources and opportunities that students in more traditional school settings can access. The equipment provided by this grant will allow them to broaden their horizons and provide them with more opportunities to learn and experiment with math and science.”

Paying It 4WARD College is expensive, and Eastern Michigan University (EMU) is doing their part to help keep costs down. Beginning in Fall 2019, EMU will introduce the 4WARD Graduation Scholarship where students pay for their first two consecutive years of tuition at a locked-in rate, then EMU will pay 100 percent of the next two consecutive years (30 credits per year). Admitted students with a 3.0+ cumulative GPA and a 20+ ACT score or 1030+ SAT score will have the opportunity to opt into the scholarship.

Full details can be found on the 4WARD Graduation Scholarship website.

Ypsilanti District Library launches a new app Smartphone users can now download the new Ypsilanti District Library (YDL) app for easy access to library services. YDL app users can manage your library account, download a movie, browse upcoming library events, or conduct research right from their phone. The app also gives users access to their digital catalog such as YDL direct subscriptions, the Michigan Activity Pass, and other downloadable content including ebooks, audiobooks, movies, and music.

To download, search for “Ypsilanti District Library” or “YDL” in the iTunes or Google Play app stores.

Saline fifth graders win countywide recycling video contest

Free morning movies

A trio of fifth graders from Saline’s Heritage Elementary School won the Washtenaw County School Recycling Program’s Education Challenge video contest. The students were honored in August with commemorative recycling bins and $500 for their school. Carolyn Kwon, Kendall MacNaughton, and Charlie VanHaaften’s produced the winning public service announcement video, which they worked on after school that highlighted proper recycling techniques. “Our environment is kind of getting trashed. My teacher got me motivated, so we made this video,” 11-year-old Charlie VanHaaften said proudly. “It was a team effort.”

The School Recycling Program began in 2015 with a $1 million state grant. The collaborative effort between the Washtenaw County Board of Public Works Solid Waste Division, Ecology Center, Washtenaw Intermediate School District, Recycle Ann Arbor, and Advanced Disposal aims to improve recycling knowledge and recycling rates both in schools and in the home. Heritage, one of the program’s eight original pilot schools, now boasts a recycling rate of 58 percent, last year diverting 11,456 pounds of the school’s waste from landfills.

For more information on the Office of the Water Resources and its programs visit washtenaw.org/drains or call 734-222-6860.

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October October October October

Your family can enjoy free movies each Friday-Sunday morning this month! Quality 16 is bringing back their Morning Movies “Fall Series” with movies the whole family can enjoy. FMG members (sign up for free online or in the theater) can receive six free movie tickets per show in the series.

5-7: The Greatest Showman 12-14: Wonder 19-21: Teen Titans Go! To The Movies 26-28: Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation

Each weekend in October. Non FMG members pay $1 per ticket. Quality 16, 3686 Jackson Rd. 734-827-2863. goodrichqualitytheaters.com/michigan/quality-16/morning-movies Free for FMG members

• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Professional Grooming for Dogs & Cats

$5 OFF

We’re celebrating kids and family

A FULL GROOM

#a2kids

Fast, fresh, local

A new, fresh restaurant has opened in the former Giardino’s space on Jackson Road in Ann Arbor. Fresh Forage brings a fast casual, farm-to-table concept to life with a menu packed full of ingredients sourced from family and local farms and sustainably foraged from the Michigan’s woods. Their dynamic seasonal menu will evolve with a fresh, local, fast, and healthy food focus.

Walk-In Nail Trim

on Instagram!

7050 Dexter/Ann Arbor Rd. Dexter, MI

Want to be featured on our IG? Use the hashtag #a2kids and your pictures could end up on our page.

734-580-2086 • club-canine.net

Monday-Saturday, 11am-8pm. 5060 Jackson Rd., Suite A. 734-887-6655. freshforage.com

Briarwood Mall adds and subtracts Charlotte Russe will move into the mall in the JCPenney wing this fall. The 5,700-square-foot space will offer fashions for teens and young women. Shoppers will find accessories, beauty products, dresses, jeans, plus sizes, shoes and more. The San Francisco-based fashion staple has locations in 45 states.

Ann Arbor’s second Which Wich location, in Briarwood Mall, has closed. The downtown Ann Arbor location remains open, still in full sandwich and salad making mode.

Just Announced!

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Photo courtesy of Community Daycare (CDC)

Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm, Sunday 11am-6pm.

100 Briarwood Circle. 734-761-9550. charlotterusse.com

KID STUFF SENSORY ART ART & STORY MINI-MAKERS MIXED-MEDIA HOMESCHOOL SESSIONS HAND-SEWING AND MORE!

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COLLABORATIVE & COMMUNITY ART ADULT WORKSHOPS BYOB PAINT-A-LONGS MAKERSPACE AVAILABLE!

Expanding preschool options in southwest Ann Arbor Community Daycare (CDC) has opened a second preschool campus, serving ages 2 ½ to 5 years, on Ann Arbor’s southwest side. The new location, over 40 acres with expansive green space for children to explore, as well as walking trails, hills and a pond, is known as CDC-Forest and will be led by veteran teacher and CDC alum, Elizabeth Meza. Established in 1972, CDC uses the High-Scope curriculum with a committment that all families can access their program. Over the last five years, CDC has made over $100,000 in tuition assistance available to Ann Arbor-area families. —LE CDC-Forest, 4001 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. 734-761-7101. communitydaycareinc.org

Register online or by phone @rubys_makery

CHECK OUT OUR

Birthday Party PACKAGES

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8118 Main Street • Dexter, MI 48130 • 810.545.8615

www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

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tween the lines

advice for parents with children 10-16

Ypsilanti Skate Park on the Horizon

Tony Hawk Foundation awards $250,000 grant

A public meeting in August drew about 30 interested community members and as many as 15 different locations were discussed. Supporters, he said, want the location to have factors such as high visibility, accessibility to and from bus routes, amenities nearby and space for the 10,000 square foot park installation.

Photo Credit: Lori Maranville

Positives for the community Supporters believe a park would be a positive for the community, attracting people of all ages and from all backgrounds, promoting healthy lifestyles and incorporating eco-friendly design principles for drainage and aesthetics.

“Ypsilanti is a very vibrant community and we want to continue that,” Spivey said.

“We definitely want everyone to enjoy the park, whether it be Ypsilanti hopes for skating or just watch“Ypsilanti is a very a skate park He points out that vibrant community ing.”

Since 2011, a group of the DIY skate park at local advocates has had and we want that to Prospect Park already high hopes of buildattracts a diverse group continue,” Spivey ing a permanent skate from young kids, teens, park, and, thanks to the said. “We definitely college students and awarded funds, a new adults from every walk want everyone to skate park is planned, of life. with a location yet to enjoy the park— Spivey is passionbe determined. ate about the sport skating or just The idea gained and said the lessons watching.” momentum after suplearned by practicing porters approved the the sport— like setting Ypsilanti Parks Board last spring about a goals and achieving them, learning from new park. Among presenters was 17-year- mistakes and working hard— are appliold skater Mauricio Mejia and Ann cable in life.

Arbor resident Trevor Staples. Staples, Staples explains skateboarding as a who helped in the effort to build the Ann sport is taking off in popularity and has Arbor Skatepark, facilitates the Built to found its way to the world stage, making Play program for the Tony Hawk Founda- its debut in the 2020 Olympics in Japan. tion in Southeast Michigan.

“All ages and ability levels can do this recreation together and learn from each other A backward Cinderella story Ypsilanti skater and community advo- as well,” he adds.

Bonfiglio touts the community benefits cate Cory Spivey calls receiving the grant a bit of a “backward Cinderella story”— the of the skate park: “It’s a great opportunity money and the support to build the park for people to be active and for people of all is secured before deciding on a location or ages to get out there and recreate.” choosing a design. The City of Ypsilanti, For updates on the Ypsilanti Skate Park follow Ypsilanti Township, and Superior Town@ypsiskatepark on Instagram. ship are all potential locations.

Ypsilanti skater enthusiast Cory Spivey goes airborne while trying out some new moves at Prospect Park in Ypsilanti.

A plan to build a skate park in the Ypsilanti area is in the works thanks to a grant from the Tony Hawk Foundation and Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. Cory Spivey, pictured here skating at the DIY Prospect Park, is part of a committee to spread the word about the benefits of creating a skate park in the community.

Photo Credit: Lori Maranville

An infusion of cash, enthusiasm and some cooperation among community entities launched a project to build a new skate park in the Ypsilanti area.

In August, the Tony Hawk Foundation and Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation announced the award of a $250,000 Built to Play grant to build a park in the Ypsilanti area with a match of $250,000 pledged from The Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission. Those involved hope to break ground by Summer 2019.

“Everyone is really excited and we can see the momentum building,” said Meghan Bonfiglio, deputy director of the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, who said she has been “blown a w a y ” b y t h e s upport in the skating community.

Photo Credit: Lori Maranville

By Lori Maranville

Area skateboarders are making plans for a skate park in the Ypsilanti area.

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• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILIES

Photos courtesy of Ballet Chelsea.

for parents of children with special needs

Participants enjoy the open studio Adaptive Dance Program at Ballet Chelsea.

• Call for a FREE Estimate

By Mary Rose Kulczak

Tailored to ability “Her instructor, Kayleigh Crummey, was fantastic,” Jeff said. “She catered the class to Ella’s ability and music taste. She even allowed Ella’s younger siblings to join her to make the environment more fun and comfortable for Ella.”

Jane Thompson, Ballet Chelsea administrator explains, “Ballet Chelsea’s unique Adaptive Dance Program (ADP) provides specifically choreographed exercise programs for members of the community who have special needs, with physical, mental and cognitive limitations.”

Customized classes The program, which began in 2015, offers twenty five classes at Washtenaw County locations, including residential centers, senior communities and classrooms with participants range in age from 3 to 93.

• No Contracts • Bonded and Insured

Ballet Chelsea offers dance programs for children and adults with special needs

Looking forward to Fridays Ella (surname withheld at parent’s request) fifteen-years-old, participated in the Adaptive Dance Program last school year and, according to her parents, the experience was a positive one. “Ella looked forward to this class every week,” her father, Jeff said. “She was a happy girl knowing dance class was on Friday.”

Ella, who has Down syndrome, participated in a program that was tailored to her abilities with trained instructors.

• Professional Quality, Affordable Price • 24-hour Clean Guarantee

Shall we dance?

Moving to the music is often a challenge for children and adults with special needs.

But now, thanks to a creative approach at Ballet Chelsea, these individuals can have fun expressing themselves through dance in a safe and comfortable setting.

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Varied options “This population has far fewer exercise options than other people, and the Adaptive Dance Program was initially developed for them, to provide fun exercise classes leading to a healthier lifestyle,” says Thompson. “Each ADP class is tailormade to fit the needs and abilities of the participants and aims to improve coordination and balance, flexibility and selfconfidence.”

Classes are led by experienced teachers, trained to work with people with disabilities. In addition to their scheduled programs around Washtenaw County, Ballet Chelsea offers three open ADP classes for ages four to adult on Fridays in their dance studio. Thanks to funding from several area agencies and initiatives, including Five Healthy Towns Foundation, there are no class fees for participants. The open studio location does require a $25 yearly family registration fee.

PLEASE CALL MOLLY MAID® OF ANN ARBOR & LIVINGSTON COUNTY

734-665-7575

www.MollyMaid.com ©2018 Molly Maid, LLC. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

For more information on the Adaptive Dance Program visit Balletchelsea.org, call 734-475-3070, or send inquiries to info@balletchelsea.org.

The following open studio ADP classes are held on Fridays at Ballet Chelsea’s studio location at 1050 S. Main St.,Chelsea:

4-6 year olds: 3:15-4pm

7-13 year olds: 5:15-6pm 14 yrs-adult: 6-6:45pm

www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

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Pumpkins, Lanterns, and Leaves Friday, October 19 and Saturday, October 20 | 6-7:30pm Matthaei Botanical Gardens 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. mbgna.umich.edu $14.50 per person

The Southeast Michigan calendar is packed with special fall events and festivals that families are sure to enjoy. From costume parties, to trick or treating in kayaks, there’s something for everyone this season!

Fall Fun and HalloWeen Happenings A guide to the area’s best events, farms, festivals, and activities

Costume Swap

October 1-20 All Ann Arbor Distric Libraries aadl.org Free

by April Huard

Monster Smash

Donate gently used, clean Halloween costumes to any of the library locations. On Sunday, October 21, you can come back and pick out a new costume.

Zoo Boo

October 5-7, 12-14, 19-21 5-8pm Fridays and Saturdays 3-7pm Sundays The Detroit Zoo 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak 248-541-5717, detroitzoo.org Tickets start at $10

Saturday October 13 | Noon-3pm Rolling Hills County Park 7660 Stony Creek Rd, Ypsilanti ewashtenaw.org $6 per person, $22 family of 4, $25 family of 5, $3 per additional person Hayrides, crafts, carnival games, a candy hunt, and cider and donuts will be available to families and kids of all ages. Don’t forget to dress up your pet for the pet costume contest!

Trick or Treat on the Trail at Hudson Mills Metropark

Hallow Harvest

Sunday, October 14 | Noon-4pm Cobblestone Farm 2781 Packard Rd. 734-794-7120, cobblestonefarm.org $2 adult, $1 child, $1.50 Sr., $5 family, 3 and under Free See the historic Cobblestone Farmhouse decorated for Halloween. Children can enjoy a scavenger hunt and games while learning about 19th-century Halloween customs.

Pumpkin Carving Party Sunday, October 14 | 1-3pm Hudson Mills Activity Center 8801 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter 734-426-8211, metroparks.com $6

Wear your costumes to the zoo for a “merry-notscary” Halloween celebration. Live music, a haunted reptile house, and pumpkin carving demonstrations will delight the entire family. Advanced ticket purchase encouraged.

Saturday, October 13 | 4-6pm Hudson Mills Activity Center 8801 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter 734-426-8211, metroparks.com $5 per person

Pick out a pumpkin, choose a design, and have fun carving. The fee includes one pumpkin and cider and doughnuts. A Metropark pass is required.

Dexter Apple Daze

Younger children will enjoy dressing in costume, visiting with characters and “wildlife” on the nature trail, and then enjoying cider, donuts, and crafts in the Activity Center. A Metroparks vehicle entry permit, required to enter any Metropark, is $35 annually for regular admission, $21 annually for seniors or $10 daily.

Pre-registration is requested.

Thursday, October 18 and Friday, October 19 | 10am-3pm The Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way, Toledo 419-385-5721, toledozoo.org $7 for member children, $16 for non-member children and adults, parking fees apply

Saturday, October 6 | 10am-5pm Monument Park, Dexter 8031 Main St. Free Celebrate the local apple harvest at this annual event in downtown Dexter. Families can take a hayride to the historic Dexter Cider Mill, enter a pie-eating contest, or check out the scarecrow decorating contest.

Smoke and Ale Fall Festival Friday, October 12 at 5pm | Saturday, October 13 at 7pm Chelsea Community Fairgrounds 20501 West Old US Highway 12 chelseamich.com/smoke-ale $5 per person, 12 & under are Free

This annual festival will include both amateur and professional BBQ contests, a beer barn, and live music. Kids will enjoy a variety of games and a cornhole tournament just for them!

Trick or Treat on the River Sunday, October 14 | Noon-5pm Gallup Livery 3000 Fuller Rd. A2gov.org $20 per boat

Wear your costume as you paddle around Gallup Pond in a canoe or kayak and collect Halloween candy.

Keep your eye out for creatures, swamp monsters and pirates! The livery provides life jackets, but bring a bag for candy. No pre registration required.

Little Boo at the Zoo

Toddlers and preschoolers are invited to don costumes for a trick-or-treat event at the zoo. Games and crafts in a non-scary environment are also planned. Bring your own candy bag or bucket.

Boo Bash

Friday, October 19 | 6-8pm Saline Rec Center 1866 Woodland Dr., Saline salinerec.com $11 per person Spend a Halloween-themed evening with the entire family doing crafts, playing games, and dancing to music.

There’s a trick or treat trail, so wear your costume, and a balloon drop at the end of the night. This popular event sells out each year, so register early. Save $2 if you register by October 7.

There’s fun for the whole family all weekend long with a pumpkin trail filled with carved pumpkins, lantern crafting, magic tricks by the University of Michigan Magic Club, story time, and a parade. Registration is required.

Pumpkin Path

Saturday, October 20 and Sunday, October 21 | 10am-4pm The Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way, Toledo 419-385-5721, toledozoo.org $7 for member children, $16 for non-member children and adults, parking fees apply Celebrate Halloween at the zoo with costumed trick-ortreating for the whole family, games, magic shows, bounce houses, and more! Bring your own candy bag or bucket.

Fall Festival at Domino’s Farms Sunday, October 21 | 11am-2pm The Petting Farm at Domino’s Farms 3001 Earhart Rd. 734-998-0182, pettingfarm.com $6 per person

In addition to the regular attractions at the Petting Farm, children can enjoy a costume parade, games, snacks, and crafts. Hayrides are available for an additional charge.

Fun on the Farm: Halloween Thursday, October 25 | 10am Kensington Metropark 4570 Huron River Parkway, Milford 248-684-8632, metroparks.com $5 per person

Toddlers can trick-or-treat all around the farm, play games, and visit the “haunted” barn. Wear your costume so that you can join in the animal parade. A Metroparks vehicle entry permit, required to enter any Metropark, is $35 annually for regular admission, $21 annually for seniors or $10 daily.

Halloween Hootenanny Thursday, October 25 | 4-7pm Zingerman’s Delicatessen 422 Detroit St. 734-663-3354, zingermansdeli.com $8 per child, parents attend Free

Kids can have fun with pumpkin drawing, cookie decorating, and face painting while enjoying fall snacks.

Costumes are encouraged but not necessary.

Pre Registration is required.

Come have a BLAST in our corn maze!

September 22th - November 10th

Fri 5-10pm, Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-8pm For more information visit: blastcornmaze.com 10

• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Corn Box Concessions Hay Rides Cow Train Pumpkin Patch And Much More!

Celebration of Halloween Concert: 1978

Friday, October 26 | 7:30pm Towsley Auditorium, Washtenaw Community College 4800 E Huron River Dr, Ann Arbor wccband.org Free Kids of all ages can parade in their costumes and have a chance to win prizes during this Halloween concert.

Refreshments and parking are free.

Halloween Downtown/Ypsi Glow Friday, October 26 | 5:30-10pm Library Park Plaza, Ypsilanti 734-482-4110, ypsilibrary.org Free

First, visit the Boo!Mobile, collect candy, and enjoy fun giveaways. Afterward, walk to North Washington St. for music, glowing costumes and window displays, interactive art, luminaries and more.

Animal Haunts

Saturday, October 27 | 6-8pm Leslie Science and Nature Center 1831 Traver Rd, Ann Arbor 734-997-1553, lesliesnc.org $10 per person or $35 per family Hike through Black Pond Woods and meet plants and animals native to Michigan. The non-scary, candy-free fun includes a hay jump, harvest crafts, stories, costumes, and more. Pre Registration is required.

Halloween Bash at the Farmers Market

Saturday, October 27 | Noon-2pm Ann Arbor Farmers Market 315 Detroit St. 734-794-6255, a2gov.org Free Kids can trick or treat in costume at candy stations around the market. Face painting, pumpkin decorating, and games are also available.

Spooky Species

Saturday, October 27 | 5 and 7pm Sunday, October 28 | 5pm The Creature Conservancy 4950 Ann Arbor Saline Rd. 734-929-9324, thecreatureconservancy.org $15 per person Families with kids aged six and older can join some spooky animals for the annual Halloween party. Learn about bats, vultures, ravens, spiders, snakes, and more during the interactive, hands-on program. Participants are also invited to stay or return for the bat flight at 9pm. Cider and donuts will be served. Pre Registration is required.

Pumpkin Stomp and Chomp Saturday, October 27 | 10am-3pm The Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way, Toledo 419-385-5721, toledozoo.org Regular zoo admission and parking rates apply

Watch the zoo animals receive their Halloween pumpkins and find out which ones like to eat pumpkins and which ones like to smash them!

Muttster Mash Bash

Saturday, October 27 | 6-8pm Humane Society of Huron Valley 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. 734-662-5585, hshv.org/muttstermash $10 per child, free for adults and kids under 1 The Humane Society of Huron Valley invites everyone to come out for a great time to benefit the animals in the shelter. Children will enjoy games, trick or treating, crafts for the animals, pictures with Happy the Hound, playtime with adoptable animals and much more! Pre-registration required.

CONT’D ON P12

Fall Fun

Make the most of Michigan’s beautiful autumn weather with a hay ride, a glass of fresh apple cider, or a trip through a corn maze

Alber Orchard

13011 Bethel Church Rd, Manchester.

734-428-9310. alberorchard.com Tour the vintage cider press, try your luck in the 7-acre corn maze, or relax during the hayride. $3 per person for hayrides, $6 per person for corn maze.

Blast Corn Maze

6175 Daly Rd, Dexter. blastcornmaze.com Adults and kids of all ages can explore 3.5 miles of corn maze trails. $8 for adults, $5 for children, 4 & under free.

Animal HauNts ADultS-Only EvenT

LSNC's favorite fall event grows up! Enjoy an evening with beer and hard cider, dessert, and a live show. Visit The Critter House, meet our owls up close, and take a twilight hike through Black Pond Woods. Feel free to bring a “zero waste” picnic dinner.

Ages 21 and older

Friday, October 26th - 7-9 pm

Coleman’s Corn Maze

12758 Jordan Rd, Saline. 734-429-1212. colemanscornmazes.com Climb on giant haystacks, pet the barn animals, play in the corn box, or choose one of three corn mazes. Prices vary.

Dexter Cider Mill

3685 Central St., Dexter. 734-426-8531. dextercidermill.com Enjoy apples, cider, and doughnuts at Michigan’s oldest continuously operated cider mill.

Erwin Orchards

61475 Silver Lake Rd., South Lyon.

248-437-0150. erwinorchards.com Enjoy fall fun with wagon rides, corn maze, petting zoo, live music, and more.

Jenny’s Farm Stand

$25 per person ($20 per member) Register by October 23rd

Family Event

Join us for a beloved autumnal celebration at LSNC's Animal Haunts!

Guided hike through Black Pond Woods, harvest crafts, hay jump, live animals.

COME IN COSTUME! This is a candy-free, non-scary event.

Trails are not stroller accessible.

KIDS AND FAMILIES

Saturday, October 27th - 6-8pm $10 person, or $35 per family Registration is required by October 24th at:

www.lesliesnc.org or call: 734-997-1553.

8366 Island Lake Rd, Dexter. 734-424-3431. jennysfarmmarket.com Kids will love the pony rides, straw bale maze, and homemade doughnuts at Jenny’s.

Maybury Farm

50165 8 Mile Rd., Northville. 248-374-0200. mayburyfarm.org Take a wagon ride to the 9-acre corn maze, or enjoy a 1-acre maze especially for kids. $9 per person, 2 & under are free.

Plymouth Orchards & Cider Mill

10685 Warren Rd, Plymouth. plymouthorchards.com Take a fun, educational wagon ride tour of this beautiful working farm and cider mill. $2.50-3.50 per person.

The Pumpkin Factory

48651 Harris Rd., Belleville. 734-461-1835. thepumpkinfactory.org Family hayrides, a petting zoo, pedal cart races, and a bakery are some of this pumpkin farm’s fall offerings. Prices vary by activity.

Three Cedars Farm

7897 Six Mile Rd, Northville. 248-437-8200. threecedarsfarm.org Families can enjoy a hayride, a train ride, or the 7-acre corn maze. Hayrides $5 per family, train rides $4 and corn maze $5 per person.

Wiard’s Country Fair 5565 Merritt Rd,

Ypsilanti. 734-390-9211. wiards.com Admission to the Country Fair includes many family-friendly activities including inflatables, pony rides, wagon rides, an apple cannon, and much more. $17.99 per person on weekends, children under 2 are free.

www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

11

CONT’D FROM P11

Tags & Treat Costume Party Saturday, October 27 |10am.

Zap-Zone 4177 Carpenter Rd, Ypsilanti 734-930-6670, zap-zone.com Free

Enjoy a Halloween party complete with candy stations, a kid-friendly haunted house, and a costume contest!

Halloween Skate

Saturday, October 27 | 1pm.

Veterans Ice Arena 2150 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor 734-794-6235. a2gov.org $4-$6.

Enjoy an open skate with Halloween music playing!

Come in costume for a chance to win a prize.

Ann Arbor District Library Halloween Costume Contest Sunday, October 28 | 12:30-3pm Downtown Library 343 South Fifth Avenue 734-327-4200, aadl.org Free

All ages are invited to dress in their best costumes and stand before the judges for a chance to win a prize.

Costume categories include best book character, most hilarious, best robot, and many more!

University of Michigan Halloween Concert Sunday, October 28 | 4:30pm Hill Auditorium 825 N. University Ave. tickets.smtd.umich.edu Reserved seating $12 and $8

Join the University Orchestras for an afternoon of spooky songs and Halloween favorites. Kids of all ages can wear their costumes and enjoy the tricks, treats, and great music. Tickets required.

Music Tools: Spooky Sound Lab Sunday, October 28 | 1pm Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown.

343 S 5th Ave., Ann Arbor 734-327-4200, aadl.org Free

CANDY FACTORY TOUR! Visit the Spangler Candy Co. Store and Museum and Take a Ride on the Trolley

Erwin Orchards 61475 Silver Lake Rd.,

Monday, October 29 | 10:30am.

Nicola’s Books.

2513 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor 734-662-0600 nicolasbooks.com Free

Halloween Party

10 miles from I-80/90 Ohio Turnpike Exit 13

400 N. Portland Street, Bryan, Ohio 43560 419.633.6439

spanglercandy.com

12

Denny’s U-Pick 4260 Gotfredson Road, Plymouth. 248-685-2769. dennyupick.webs.com Pumpkins

Halloween Story Time & Craft Hour

Last trolley at 3:30 pm

Last trolley at 2:30 pm

DeBuck’s 50240 Martz Rd., Belleville.

734-260-0334. debuckscornmaze. com Wagon rides to the U-pick pumpkin patch

Erie Orchards 1235 Erie Rd., Erie.

Come in costume for a Halloween-themed story time and craft. Enjoy cider and donuts while master storyteller, Ieva Bates, will read some fun and spooky tales.

Fall/Winter/ Spring: Wed.-Fri 10a-4p

Enjoy a crisp fall day picking your own pumpkins or apples at a Southeast Michigan farm.

Be sure to confirm hours before you go.

Try your hand at making something creepy, and uncanny with instruments and effects. Grads 6 and up.

Summer

(June/July/Aug.) Mon-Fri 10a-4p

Local U-Pick Farms

734-848-4518. erieorchards.com U-pick apples South Lyon. 248-437-0150. erwinorchards.com Apples and pumpkins

Lutz Orchard 11030 Macon Rd, Saline.

734-429-5145 - Apples Slow Farm 4700 Whitmore Lake Rd. 917-837-0975. slowfarmandfriends.com Organic pumpkins

Wednesday, October 31 | 10am or 11:30am Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown.

343 S 5th Ave., Ann Arbor 734-327-4200, aadl.org Free

Wasem Fruit Farm 6580 Judd Rd., Milan. 734-482-2342. wasemfruitfarm.com Over a dozen varieties of apples as well as pumpkins

Come to library dressed in your costume for stories, a puppet show, and trick-or-treating. After all the holiday fun, head to Main Street for the Halloween Treat Parade.

Wiard’s Orchards 5565 Merritt Rd, Ypsilanti. 734-390-9211. wiards.com Pumpkins and 8 varieties of apples

The Great Pumpkin Roll Saturday, November 3 | 9am Mill Pond Park, Saline cityofsaline.org/parks Free

Bring your old jack-o-lantern to Mill Pond Park for the annual pumpkin roll. Winners will receive prizes, but everyone will enjoy cider and doughnuts.

• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Wing Farms 5335 Dexter Ann Arbor Rd. 724-761-7578. wingfarms.com U-pick pumpkins, including their famous giant pumpkins

Nailed It!

Scuba Diver

We’ve got you covered with these easy, DIY Halloween costume ideas

By Raegan Nelson

Halloween can creep up on us and become a potentially time-consuming holiday. Sometimes our kids’ elaborate costume ideas have to be pushed aside for something quicker, cheaper, and all around easier. But, do not fear!

We have four super simple costume ideas that require little time and effort, and use materials found around the house. Best part is, they are adorable, unique, and can be used for almost any age or gender!

Scuba Girl Stella 3, Ann Arbor 45 minutes

Lego Block Costume 45 minutes

Supplies n 1 rectangular cardboard box (Lego hat) n 1 squared cardboard box (Lego body) n 1 can of spray paint, color of choice n 1 package Solo cups (match the color of paint, if possible) n Duct tape n Hot glue gun n Scissors Instructions: Using the smaller square box, cut a round hole in the bottom based on the size of hat your child wears. n Hot glue the rims of 4 Solo cups onto the top of the box. This will create the Lego hat. n

Supplies: n Black pants and black long sleeve shirt n Two 2-litter bottles n Rope or yarn n Spray paint, color of choice n Black electrical tape n Sponge hair curlers n Swim goggles and snorkel n Decorative silve ‘washi’ tape n Hot glue

Legos, Emmett 6 and Eleanor 5, Ann Arbor

Instructions: Oxygen Backpack Using the larger, rectangular box, cut a hole on the top about two to three times larger than your hat hole. This will be the head hole. n On both sides of the larger box, cut large circles out for the arm holes.

These holes should only be a few inches from the top of the box. n Cut the back and bottom off the rectangular box so your child can easily get in and out of the costume. n Hot glue 6 solo cups onto the front of the cardboard box. n Duct tape around any edges to smooth them out. n Spray paint both boxes and let them dry. n

Note: If you have a hard time keeping the Lego hat on, have the child put a hat on backwards so the box stays more secure. The brim on the back will provide more stability.

Spray paint two 2-litter bottles.

Once dry, add black electrical tape and silver washi tape to secure them together. n Measure and cut the rope so that when secured to the top and bottom of bottles, it will still fit snuggly around your child’s shoulders. n Using hot glue, secure the ends of the rope to the bottom and top of the bottle. This should create two loops so you child can put it on like a backpack. n n

Scuba Tool Belt Double the electrical tape onto itself so it isn’t sticky and weave on some sponge curlers. Using a small piece of tape, secure the belt together so it fits around your child’s waist.

Trick or Treating Times Wednesday,

October 31

Ann Arbor: 5-8pm Chelsea: 5:30-7:30pm Dexter: 5:30-7:30pm Milan: 6-8pm Saline: 6-8pm Ypsilanti: until dusk, no set time

More easy halloween costume ideas online?

Visit annarborfamily.com www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

13

OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

Part 1

Choosing a school for your child is no easy task. Feel confident in your decision by scheduling a tour or attending an open house at one of these fantastic Ann Arbor-area schools. Find the best fit for you child by meeting teachers, seeing the school, and learning about the educational options.

DAYCROFT SCHOOL Early Childhood Campus: Toddler, Preschool & Kindergarten 100 Oakbrook Dr. 734-930-0333. daycroft.org Elementary Campus: Grades K-8 1095 N. Zeeb Rd. 734-662-3335. daycroft.org Open House Tours: 9am or 10am, Tuesdays.

October 2, November 13, December 11, January 15.

Open House Tours: 9am or 10am, Thursdays.

October 4, November 15; December 13, January 17.

Your child will thrive at one of Ann Arbor’s top independent schools. Inspired by the principles of the Montessori model, Daycroft School focuses on individuality and personalized learning so your child can reach their best potential. Daycroft provides a warm, nurturing and culturally diverse environment that is sure to enhance your child’s learning. Children are encouraged to develop at their own pace and work individually with teachers to gain a lifelong love of learning. See Daycroft classrooms in action during their monthly Open House tours. Call 734-930-0333 or email admissions@daycroft.org to register or arrange a personal tour of the school. To see the full schedule for the 2018-19 school year visit daycroft.org.

2

KENSINGTON WOODS 9501 Pettys Rd., Lakeland. 517-545-0828. kwoods.org Personal tours and shadow days available by appointment.

Kensington Woods is a small, creative school that develops academic success through an innovative and personal educational experience. They are a tuition-free, college-prep 6-12th grade public charter school that values engaging curriculum and caring faculty. The school focuses on developing creativity and collaboration throughout the curriculum, including through subject-area integration and unique visual arts and music programs. Classes are small so students can get the attention they need and emphasis is placed on building character.

Kensington Woods believes strongly Band and String that all students are capable of succeeding in school, and they embed a mindset Instrument Rentals of success within the day to day curricuHUGE Selection of Sheet lum as well as through special programs.

Music & School Music Books The school’s mission is to prepare each student for success in college, career, Guitars, Keyboards, Band and life through an engaging, challengAccessories & Gifts ing and innovative educational program that is student-centered and promotes character and values.

Back to School!

419-537-9166 14

• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

CLONLARA SCHOOL 1289 Jewett Ave. 734-769-4511. clonlara.org Middle and High School Open House: Thursday, November 15, 6–7:30pm K-2 Open House: Tuesday, January 29, 6–7:30pm

As a global learning community, Clonlara School guides students and their families in crafting an educational plan that works for them, and lets their interests drive the learning process. Families can choose the Clonlara program that works best for them: campus, off-campus, or online.

Each of their three programs offers students the freedom to ask questions and discover answers about the subjects that capture their attention.

Throughout their educational journey, Clonlara students actively engage in play and projects that connect to their academic interests and participate in decisions related to their learning goals. Meet Clonlara teachers and learn about their educational approach at an upcoming open house or contact them any time to schedule a tour!

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN SCHOOL – ANN ARBOR 495 Earhart Rd., 734-665-0604. stpaulannarbor.org Open House: Friday, November 2, 9am-1pm.

St. Paul School Ann Arbor invites your family to join them for their fall open house on Friday, November 2, from 9am-1pm. Preschool, elementary school, and middle school families can tour their beautiful campus, meet their caring teachers, and see classrooms in action. Light refreshments will be served. St. Paul Ann Arbor is a preschool through 8th grade Christian school that educates, equips and encourages students for tomorrow and eternity. St. Paul School students participate in extraordinary learning opportunities in a loving environment.

Come explore the educational excellence at St. Paul. They invite your family to become part of their family!

www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

15

healthy kids Photo Credit: Susan Garman Photography

Sweet Dreams, Baby

By Kimberly Wagner-Dabbour a Boring is best! No mobiles, bumpers, electronics, blankets, stuffed animals, etc. Added items are overstimulating and potential hazards for younger babies. a Sleep is best in a bassinet, pack ‘n play or crib with a clean fitted sheet, depending on their age and weight. a Optimum temperature: Between 68-72 degrees.

a Humidity: Use a cool mist humidifier in an enclosed space to ensure the air is not too dry. Also, be sure to use a humidity gauge, as too much humidity can promote the growth of mold. a Dark! Babies are not innately afraid of the dark. The darker, the better for melatonin production. If you sit in the room for five minutes and can clearly read a book, it is too light. a Use a white noise machine/fan/air purifier (no music), something to help mask the outside sounds. Ensure that it is across the room from the child and under 50 decibels.

SAVE THE DATE

Join us for Ann Arbor’s oldest and largest chefs event featuring enticing menus from the area’s culinary masters as well as wines, beers and spirits and dazzling entertainment.

WHEN Wednesday, October 17, 2018 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm WHERE Ann Arbor Marriott Ypsilanti at Eagle Crest 1275 S. Huron St. Ypsilanti, MI RSVP signaturechefs.org/annarbor

16

By Mary Rose Kulczak

Photo Credit: Susan Garman Photography

Practical Tips to Improve a Child’s Sleep Environment

Pediatric sleep consultants help families achieve a good night’s rest

Area expert Kimberly Wagner-Dabbour of Beddy Bye Sleep Solutions offers parents a blissful night of sleep.

Sarah, a sleep-deprived Dundee mother of infant twins, was exhausted. Her nine month old babies were waking frequently, causing many sleepless nights.

“I had people telling me not to worry, it was normal and they would grow out of it and eventually sleep. I had others telling me to let them cry and some who said absolutely don’t let them cry. I read six books on getting your baby to sleep and I lost complete confidence in being a mother and helping my babies navigate how to sleep,” Sarah said.

Finally, Sarah found Kimberly WagnerDabbour’s website, Beddy Bye Sleep Solutions. Wagner-Dabbour, a certified pediatric sleep consultant, formulated a plan to bring peaceful slumber back to the household.

“She made some simple changes in the twins’ room and modified our bedtime routine and literally, it took my babies just three nights to sleep through the night,” Sarah said. Within two weeks, WagnerDabbour had transformed these nighttime interrupters into seven p.m. to seven a.m. sleepers.

What does a pediatric sleep consultant do?

“As a pediatric sleep consultant, I provide sleep education and professional support to resolve a variety of children’s sleep struggles,” she explained. “Using sleep science, safe sleep practices and experience, I put together a detailed, custom sleep plan for parents and caregivers to implement, based on the child’s age, temperament, family situation, and sleep needs. All while teaching them how to meet their child’s needs and supporting them through the process for success.”

Wagner-Dabbour works with families one-on-one, and sleep training typically takes two to three weeks. Most families see positive sleep changes within the first three to five days.

• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

The benefits of a sleep routine Wagner-Dabbour explained that the child who is getting the appropriate amount of sleep for their age, on a regular basis, has a distinct edge over peers who do not. These benefits can include improved memory, behavior, learning, attention span, emotional regulation, quality of life and mental and physical health.

“A predictable bedtime and naptime routine are great for cueing the mind and body of the child, signaling that it is time for sleep, which makes it easier for the child to fall asleep,” she explained.

Daytime naps are also a crucial part of establishing the sleep routine. “Good naps are essential for a more restorative night sleep. Restricting naps and poor naps will lead to overtiredness, which causes the body to release stress hormones like cortisol, adrenaline and norepinephrine, which disrupts sleep.”

Seasonal sleep changes Seasonal changes can often lead to changes in sleep patterns as well. It may be easy to reset the clocks to “fall back,” but how does a parent reset a child’s internal clock?

“Daylight Savings Time requires that parents must put their child to sleep an hour earlier or later, in order to maintain our social schedules and work, “ WagnerDabbour explained. “Babies and young children can become overtired very quickly, and moving their schedule by one hour all at once most certainly will result in disrupted sleep,” she cautioned.

“I recommend sliding the child’s sleep schedule 15-30 minutes every two to three days before the time change, starting a week or more ahead of the change for a smoother transition. It will take about a week after the changes for the bodies to fully adjust.”

For more information visit Kimberly Wagner-Dabbour’s website beddybyesleep.com.

Photo Courtesy of Wurtzel Family Dentistry.

Ask the Expert

Halloween and Dental Health What every parent needs to know to protect their child’s smile

By Laura Eliason

Halloween is almost here! That means sugar, lots of sugar. But what does that mean for your child’s teeth? And what if your child does have a sweet tooth, is there a way to keep cavities away?

We talked to Dr. Lindsey Wurtzel, of Wurtzel Family Dentistry, to get the answer to these questions and more. The expert dentists in their family dentistry practice offered great advice on how to reduce the risk of cavities and why it’s so important to care for your child’s first teeth. Dr. Lindsey also offered some great tips on how to prepare for your child’s first dental office visit.

w You’re a family of dentists. Tell

us why the Wurtzel family is so passionate about family dental health?

We are a father and two children practice passionate about treating families of all ages. Your teeth are important for your overall health, quality of life, and self esteem. My father’s first practice motto was “ We cater to cowards” and we want your first dental experience here to be a great one!

w Halloween is coming! Should my child have any candy?

Sugar snacks are up to every parent.

Sugar in small moderation with good oral hygiene is okay; however be aware of how much and for how long your child is consuming candy.

w Why are the Primary Teeth

(baby teeth) so important?

It is very important to maintain the health of the primary teeth. Neglected cavities can and frequently do lead to problems which affect developing permanent teeth. Primary teeth, or baby teeth are important for: proper chewing and eating, providing space for the permanent teeth and guiding them into the correct position, and permitting normal development of the jaw bones and muscles. Primary teeth also affect the development of speech and add to an attractive appearance.

Our Our fall fall session session runs runs from from September 4-October 28

Child's First Dental Check?

Here's how to Prepare

For new classes & more info visit:

w Think about timing. It's important for a

w What are some easy ways to reduce my child’s risk for cavities?

Cavities are formed from weakened enamel which collapses to form a cavity and the tooth is progressively destroyed.

Dental caries is caused by the action of acids on the enamel surface. The acid is produced when sugars (mainly sucrose) in foods or drinks react with bacteria present in the dental biofilm (plaque) on the tooth surface. Practicing good oral hygiene, healthy eating habits, and assessing your child risk factor for cavities are all important to reducing the risk of cavities.

child of any age who's used to a nap to get one before their appointment. For older kids avoid cramming in a dental appointment right after day camp or school.

ChampGymAA.com

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Make an older child a model. If you have two kids, send the one who is most comfortable with going to the dentist first to ease others fears.

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w Eat first. Make sure your child eats

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a light meal before getting in the dental chair.

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www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

17

Into the Sun and Stage Lights

Ann Arbor native appears on family game show LA or bust Born and raised in Ann Arbor, Washington took a leap of faith when he and his wife left the cold winters of Michigan behind for the warm rays of Southern California seven years ago.

“We were looking for a new life and new opportunities,” Washington said.With a degree in telecommunications and film from Eastern Michigan University, Washington leveraged his background and experience to find career success in LA. He was a co-host for NBC’s “Spartan: Ultimate Team Challenge” and a co-host on the afternoon drive talk show “Afternoons with Marcellus, Kelvin & E.D” on ESPN 710 in Los Angeles.

And while Washington said he loves his newfound home in California, he still has a soft spot for Michigan. A 1999 graduate of Pioneer High School, he played for a Pioneer basketball team that won the state championship. Naturally, he still roots for his hometown team.

Kelvin and Toni Washington, natives of Michigan, appeared this summer in the GSN game show “America Says.”

Family first Working hard to advance his career, his list of on-air credits on television and radio continues to grow, while his roles as a husband and father clearly top his list of priorities.

“I grew up in a single parent home and it has always been very important to me to be a good dad,” he said. “I take it very seriously. It is tiring, taxing, rewarding, fun and everything to me.

When I come home, the joy on her face and hearing ‘daddy’— that is priceless.

If I could bottle that up, I would.”

Kennedi, almost 2, will be joined by a little sister sometime in late October. The Washingtons had a gender reveal party

this past summer to tell loved ones their second child would be another daughter.

The downside of living in California, Washington said, is not having a lot of family living close by, but, he said, grandma makes up for that by calling frequently and skyping to see the baby.

The family also regularly travels back to Michigan to visit.

Parenthood is a rewarding experience, Washington said, adding that he hopes parents continue to know how important they are.

“You’re never really ready,” he said.

“You just have to go with it and grow with it.”

Photo Credit: Sashani Brown

Native Michigander and LA transplant Kelvin Washington embraces challenges – in life, career and family - and he definitely has a lot of fun along the way.

This summer, h-e and his wife, Toni, expecting their second child this month, appeared as contestants on the new GSN game show “America Says.” The show challenges two teams of family and friends to fill in the blank on a wide range of survey topics. John Michael Higgins of “Pitch Perfect” fame hosts.

The Washingtons showed their Michigan pride calling on friends who are also Michigan natives to appear with them on their team “The Detroiters.”

They auditioned and did a taping of the show in early spring. The episode aired this summer on July 27 and, although the team didn’t win the $15,000 jackpot, Kelvin Washington said it was a positive experience for him and his wife.

“Everyone was very professional and it was fun and informative,” he said, adding that it was nice being able to do the show with friends from back home.

Photo contributed by GSN

By Lori Maranville

Kelvin and Toni Washington shown here with their daughter, Kennedi.

Kelvin, who now lives with his family in LA, grew up in Ann Arbor and graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in film and telecommunications.

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18

• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

digital age

“Can I Get A Twitch Account?”

What parents need to know about twitch

Open 7 days a week (10:30am-4:00am)

By Katy M. Clark

“Can I get a Twitch account?” my 14-year-old son asked me.

I stared at him blankly. I just wrapped my head around Fortnite and Snapchat—and now this Twitch thing? “What is it?” I asked.

A Twitch Account?

“You watch gamers play live. It’ll really help me with Fortnite,” he explained. Inwardly I rolled my eyes.

“Isn’t that the same as watching all those videos on YouTube?” I replied.

Turns out the answer is sort of, but not really. Here’s what I have learned about Twitch.

use in chat rooms, costs $4.99 a month and up, depending on the subscription level.

Showing support for your favorite gamer by subscribing is how they make money: Amazon splits half of each subscription with the broadcaster.

Because Amazon owns Twitch, it should come as no surprise that a free Twitch Prime account is available to everyone with an Amazon Prime membership. This is how our family signed up. Twitch Prime allows ad-free viewing and one free subscription to a broadcaster every month.

“You watch gamers play live. It’ll really help me with Fortnite,” he explained.

Inwardly I rolled my eyes.

What is the Twitch website?

“Twitch is a website where you can watch live streamers play video games,” my son informed me. It was founded in 2011 and purchased by Amazon in 2014. Between one and two million unique visitors log in to Twitch each month, and it is one of the highest sources of internet traffic in North America.

The majority of users watch their favorite gamers, or broadcasters as Twitch calls them, play video games in real-time. The service has expanded to include streams dedicated to artwork creation, music, talk shows, and the occasional TV series.

It is the live streaming that distinguishes Twitch from YouTube (where most gamers post pre-recorded videos). Additionally, Twitch offers a live chat stream that allows viewers to interact in real time with each other and the broadcaster.

Twitch streams are available on the official Twitch website and via one of the many official Twitch apps.

What does it cost?

“You don’t need to buy anything to watch it,” my son reported. Getting an account to follow a broadcaster is free, but subscribing to a broadcaster, which comes with perks such as more emojis to

618 Church St, Ann Arbor

Should parents be concerned about Twitch?

Maybe. Twitch is live, so it can be hard to censor. Broadcasters can and do curse, even if by accident. There is also exposure to advertising on Twitch, including on-screen ads and sponsorships of gamers who guzzle certain energy drinks or wear branded clothing.

Twitch does have community policies to crack down on hate speech, harassment, and sexual content in chat streams, but parents should be aware that anyone can chat with anyone else. Additionally, in the past year, the service has developed more into a social network. Twitch users can follow and DM (Direct Message) each other, each stream has its own unique chatroom where users can connect, and the popular Pulse feature essentially functions as a Facebook timeline.

“I like that I can watch my favorite streamers and relax,” commented my son. So far, the chat stream has not tempted him to buy Bits or participate because “popular gamers just get their streams flooded.” I will keep having regular conversations with him about what he is watching and doing in Twitch’s digital world, especially as it looks like Twitch is here to stay.

50% OFF Kids Meals Sunday - Wednesday only

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www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

19

BOMBER RESTAURANT 306 E Michigan Ave Ypsilanti, MI 48198 734-482-0550 bomberrestaurant.net Open daily: 7am-3pm

Anchoring Ypsilanti Through the Decades

Bomber Restaurant serves great food and welcoming atmosphere

By Julie and David Sturza

Bomber Restaurant was warm and welcoming from the moment we walked in. From the hostess to the server to the manager, we were impressed by the friendliness of everyone we interacted with. And the service wasn’t just friendly, it was also fast; a winning combination for families with small kids!

History, community, and family “Did you see the bomb?” owner Johanna McCoy asked our 5-year old as his eyes danced from plane to plane dangling from the ceiling. He responded asking whether it was real. “Of course,” McCoy responded with a sly grin. “I love this place, we should come here more,” exclaimed my 5-year old. It’s not just the WWII photos and memorabilia that set Bomber apart from other local diners.

McCoy maintains close ties within the local community and is deeply connected to the area’s role in advancing the Arsenal of Democracy. Originally opened in 1936 as Baldwin’s Diner the named changed to ‘The Bomber’ in the 1940s in support of the B-24s made down the road at Willow Run. It changed hands and names again in the 70s and was renamed ‘Bomber’ when McCoy took ownership in 1986.

All of the memorabilia in the restaurant was donated by guests, collectors, and admirers. McCoy does joint tours with Yankee Air Museum and hosts nearly a dozen original Rosies who visit to celebrate Bomber’s Rosie the Riveter day each Palm Sunday. This neighborhood, anchoring the Southeast corner of historic Depot Town, has changed a lot in the 24 years since McCoy has owned Bomber.

She finds this section of downtown Ypsilanti has become much more active and also cleaned up a lot along the way. As a result, McCoy mentions, Bomber is more family-friendly now than ever before.

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Good eats. No frills.

We started with an order of chili cheese fries ($6.95). The whole family enjoyed this appetizer of crunchy fries covered in a thick and slightly sweet chili with thinly shredded cheese in perfect proportions. Bomber has a great children’s (and senior) menu with prices that are easy to swallow ($3.75-$6.50 each). Our kids chose the grilled cheese and cheeseburger meals, prepared simply and served with French fries, chips, or applesauce.

No frills here, but our 5- and 3-year olds didn’t mind one bit. We also tried the Bomber Melt ($6.95) which was dinerrific; a well-seasoned patty on rye bread with melted Swiss cheese and sautéed onions.

Of course our family had to try the Bomber Breakfast ($11.25) challenge; a dish with a big reputation and that has been featured on The Food Network.

It did not disappoint! A mountain of breakfast potatoes served with four eggs, toast, and whole lot of breakfast meat- six sausage patties, seven sausage links, ten slices of bacon or two slices of ham. We foolishly ordered this for just one person when in reality it could have easily fed all four of us! Our verdict: with crispy

bacon, perfectly cooked eggs, and breakfast potatoes the whole family loved, it’s not just a novelty item; it’s a darn good breakfast dish.

A parting gift On the way out our little ones were delighted to be given a wooden airplane toy to take home with them as a souvenir of our visit! This little touch perfectly punctuated the Bomber’s dedication to both history and as a family-friendly environment.

History buffs and kids will delight in the memorabilia and model airplanes hanging from the ceiling. Tourists and college students come for the Bomber Breakfast Challenge. And all that visit the Bomber Restaurant find a down-home and familyfriendly diner serving up good food at a decent price.

• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

The Short Course 1. Kid-friendly: Yes. 2. To avoid wait: Come before 8am or after 1pm.

3. Noise level: Low. 4. Bathroom amenities: Changing table.

5. High chairs? Yes. 6. Got milk? Yes. 7. Kids’ menu? Yes. 8. Anything healthy for kids? Yes. 9. Food allergy concerns?

Talk to your server about any concerns.

{ October 2018 }

Saturday n Oct. 6 10am-11am.

Family Theater

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

1 MONDAY Nugget & Fang Story Time & Craft Hour 10:30am. Nicola’s Books. nicolasbooks.com. Free Join for a reading of some engaging and fun Nugget & Fang books! Make your own fish inspired by the books during craft time.

Emerging Writers Workshop: Children & YA Book Publishing Panel 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free Panelists Virginia Loh-Hagan (multipublished author of children’s nonfiction books), Bethany Neal (author of YA fiction), and an editor and a publisher from Cherry Lake Press will discuss children’s literature. Grade 6 through adult.

2 TUESDAY Tummy Times 10am. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free If you are a new or expecting parent, come meet other parents sharing the same new baby experiences! Enjoy a drink from Sweetwaters and relax while your child has fun with special toys for young babies.

3 WEDNESDAY Prenatal Breastfeeding Class 6pm-8pm. $35. IHA Breastfeeding Medicine Specialists. ihacares.com Expectant parents and support persons can prepare for their upcoming breastfeeding experience.

4 THURSDAY Art & Story 2:15pm. $65. Ruby’s Makery, Dexter. rubytalulastudio.com A 45-minute studio session for ages 2-5 including a story and coordinating project.

Día de la Familia 5:30pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free The event features entertainment, games, crafts, food, and face painting. Health information concerning mental, physical, and social issues in the Latino community will also be addressed.

Harvest Party 5:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Superior. ypsilibrary.org. Free Enjoy foods made from the Superior Learning Garden and make your own chocolate-covered peanuts and fresh salsa.

Wild Swan Theater: The Three Little Pigs 6:30pm. Saline District Library. salinelibrary.org. Free See three classic tales, including “The Three Little Pigs,” brought to life by Michigan’s premier performers of children’s theater. For ages 4 & up.

Registration required.

5 FRIDAY First Friday Ypsilanti 5pm. Downtown Ypsilanti. firstfridaysypsi.com. Free Explore downtown Ypsilanti and local culture with free art activities involving local artists, musicians, and/or tastings.

First Friday Ypsilanti 5pm. Downtown Ypsilanti. firstfridaysypsi.com. Free Explore downtown Ypsilanti culture.

Participating venues offer free art activities involving local artists, musicians, and/ or tastings. Support local talent and businesses while having a great time!

Hands-On Museum Family Night: Technology!

6pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free Make your own stop-motion animation film, explore 10 technology themed activities, and receive a discount coupon to the Hands-On Museum. Preschool through grade 8.

6 SATURDAY Mega March for Animals 9am. Kensington Metropark, Milford. michiganhumane.org. Free Families will enjoy beautiful fall foliage as they walk up to two miles with 1,000 supporters and meet adoptees once housed at the Michigan Humane Society.

Kids Club: Pumpkin 10am. $2-$5. Michaels. michaels.com Kids will love making their own pumpkin craft! There are two class options – one for ages 3-8 (Pumpkin Lantern – $2) and one for ages 6+ (Dimensional Pumpkin – $5).

World Language Storytime 10:30am. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org. Free Kids 8 and under will enjoy a bilingual storytime. Native speaker of foreign languages will read a story, which will be translated into English. After the storytime, make art inspired by another culture!

Strum & Drum 3pm. $15. Oz’s Music. ozmusic.com Kids play with instruments during this hands-on workshop. No appointment needed. First session Free, then $15/family

7 SUNDAY Budding Naturalists: Leaf Peep 10am. Lillie Park Playground. legacylandconservancy.org. Free Families with kids ages 2-7 will hike from Lillie Park South to Legacy’s Lloyd and Mabel Johnson Nature Preserve, collecting leaves along the way. Not stroller friendly.

Nature Storytime: Magnificent Mammals 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Explore the outdoors with live animal visits, hikes, stories, and hands-on activities!

Caregiver required and free. Also occurring on 10/10.

Spend a morning enjoying a play by Spinning Dot Theatre, a company that creates innovative plays for kids and their families.

The theatre will present Only A Day; a funny, sad, and thought-provoking story, best suited for kids in grades K-5. Only a Day focuses on the friendship between a fox, wild boar, and dayfly. The fox and wild boar can’t bring themselves to tell the dayfly that her life only lasts a single day. The three friends set out to complete a lifetime of accomplishments before the sun sets. –EC

Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate Branch. 2503 Jackson Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org. Free

Monday n Oct. 8 7pm-10pm.

Fire Safety Fun

Kids will learn all about the importance of fire prevention and safety at this annual Fire Open House. To celebrate National Fire Safety week, Pittsfield Township Fire Station is opening up its doors for educational fun. Kids will love the chance to see and explore a firetruck up close, watch live demonstrations, and spray the fire hose! Meet your local firefighters who will be on hand with helpful information and resources on fire safety. –EC

Pittsfield Township Fire Station #1. 6227 W. Michigan Ave. 734-822-4964. pittsfield-mi/gov. Free

Saturday n Oct. 27 3pm-5pm.

Mystery at the Library

If you like mysteries, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to solve one yourself during the Murder at Raccoon Ranch Suspect Meet ‘n Greet. Pick up your case file, read the evidence, and meet the suspects who will be available for questioning. Form your hypothesis about the night in question and submit your solution at one of the computer stations. Prizes will be awarded to three randomly selected participants who have the right conclusion. This event is best suited for grades 6-adult. –EC

Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org. Free

Gene Yang: Modules and Monsters!

2pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free Meet graphic novel superstar and bestselling author Gene Luen Yang, who will be sharing Secret Coders: Modules & Monsters, the sixth and final volume of a series combining logic puzzles and basic coding instruction with a mystery plot!

9 TUESDAY No-Carve Pumpkin Decorating 6:30pm. Chelsea District Library. chelseadistrictlibrary.org. Free Create your own jack o’lantern, take a photo and enter it into CDL’s online No-Carve Pumpkin Decorating Contest.

Registration required.

10 WEDNESDAY 12th Annual College Night 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library, West. aadl.org. Free Experts will discuss techniques on how to find the right college, write an application essay, and score well on ACT and SAT tests. Grades 9-adult are welcome.

11 THURSDAY Art Explorations 5pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org. Free Elementary and middle school students will enjoy this process art workshop using Copic markers to make a landscape.

12 FRIDAY Heirloom Apple Tasting 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free Taste a diverse array of apple varieties, all grown in MI! Most of these old heirloom varieties are extremely rare, and grown by a small handful of farms.

13 SATURSDAY Critters Up Close 10am. $12.50. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. aahom.org Explore animal diversity with hands-on activities! Also occurring on 10/14 at 3pm. Free with admission.

www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

CONT’D ON P.22 21

CONT’D FROM P.21 Friends Fill a Bag Book Sale 10am. Chelsea District Library. chelseadistrictlibrary.org. Free Fill a bag with books, CDs, DVDs, audio books and other items available for purchase for $5 in support of the library.

Kids Club: Bats 10am. $2-$5. Michaels. michaels.com Kids can join for two class options! Ages 3-8 will make a flying bat for $2. Ages 6 and up will make a spooky house and bat frame for $5.

Candy Haunted House 11am. Ann Arbor District Library, Pittsfield. aadl.org. Free Kids in preschool-grade 3 will have a great time making a haunted house out of graham crackers, frosting, and candy decorations.

Coloring with Cats 7:30-9:30pm. $10. Tiny Lions Lounge and Adoption Center. tinylions.org Help homeless cats while spending time coloring! Registration required. Ages 12+

14 SUNDAY Make Your Own Flip-Book Animation 12:30pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Malletts Creek. aadl.org. Free Your drawings will come to life in this flipbook workshop for kids in grades 2-8.

Come to learn the basics of animation!

Animal Acoustics 2pm. $2/person or $5/family.

Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, Chelsea. michigan.gov The Howell Nature Center will bring a variety of noisy animals to the Discovery Center to learn the sounds of creatures.

Sumkali Indian Music 2pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org. Free Sumkali collaborates with musicians from both India and the USA to create global music, mixing the traditions of Northern and Southern Indian classical and folk music with jazz, flamenco, and funk.

Disney in Concert: Around the World 2pm-3:15pm and 5pm-6:15pm. $10-$25.

Michigan Theater. michtheater.org Admission includes free pre-concert activities including photos with Princess Ayla, the A2SO Instrument Petting Zoo, crafts with Flipside Art Studio, science explorations with Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, and a “Musical Mice” scavenger hunt.

Activities are 12:30-1:30pm and 3:454:30pm before each show.

Little Lake Parent Interest Night 6pm. Riverside Arts Center, Ypsilanti. riversidearts.org. Free Take a tour and learn about the Little Lake Learning Community, an unschooling cooperative and alternative to school.

15 MONDAY What’s On Your Ballot?

6-8pm. Riverside Arts Center, Ypsilanti. riversidearts.org. Free A representative from the League of Women Voters of Michigan will explain each state ballot issue and what your “yes” or “no” vote would mean.

16 TUESDAY Preschool Pumpkin Hunt 10am. $8-$12. Saline Rec Center. salinerec.com Preschoolers can join for a mini Pumpkin Hunt on Miller Field behind the Rec Center.

Decorate a pumpkin to take home.

Cat Toy Crafts 1pm. Ann Arbor District Library, West. aadl.org. Free Get ready to celebrate National Cat Day on October 29th by crocheting or sewing a special catnip gift for your feline friend.

Recommended for grade 9 through adult.

Saturday Recycling Crafts 10am. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free Drop in for a fun craft activity using recycled materials! Make your own beautiful, spooky, or silly recycled lantern light made of recycled glass.

17 WEDNESDAY

Family Art Studio: Global Africa 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm.

University of Michigan Museum of Art. umma.umich.edu. Free Families with children ages 6 and up are invited to create a project inspired by the exhibition “Beyond Borders: Global Africa.” Enjoy a tour with UMMA docents followed by a hands-on workshop with Zimbabwean artist Masimba Hwati.

Nature Storytime: Feathered Friends 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Explore the outdoors with live animal visits, hikes, stories, and age-appropriate handson activities. Caregiver required and free.

18 THURSDAY

Wild Swan Theater: Frog and Toad 11am. Dexter District Library. dexter.lib.mi.us. Free Wild Swan Theater will perform Frog and Toad, based on the books by Arnold Lobel, at the Dexter Library. Recommended for children in Pre-K through 2nd grade.

Manchester Third Thursdays 4pm. Downtown Manchester. vil-manchester.org. Free There will be plenty to explore in Manchester with a Pop Up Artist & Makers Market, sidewalk sales, and hayrides around town. Enjoy entertainment by street performers, stop by for face painting and henna ink, or shop at the Farmers Market!

Autumn Car Race 1pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free Kids in grades K-3 will have fun making their very own race car out of craft tubes!

After, they’ll have a chance to enjoy race them around the room.

19 FRIDAY Trunk or Treat 6-8pm. Comprehensive Dentistry, Ypsilanti. comprehensivedentistry.net. Free Bring your family for toys and prizes, games, a costume contest, giveaways, and of course, free toothbrushes!

21 SUNDAY Nature Storytime: Rockin’ Reptiles 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Explore and appreciate the outdoors with live animal visits, hikes, stories, and handson activities. Caregiver required and free.

Also occurring on 10/24.

20 SATURDAY Kids Club: Spider Web 10am. $2-$5. Michaels. michaels.com Ages 3-8 will make a glitter paper spider web, while ages 6 and up will make a pom-pom spider and web!

EVERY WEEK IS FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

LOOK. LISTEN. LEARN. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere

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Find tools to keep your

family safe from home fires at firepreventionweek.org

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FIRE PREVENTION WEEK™

22

• October 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Superhero 5k 2pm. $3-$30. Hudson Mills Metropark, Dexter. girlsontherunsemi.org The SIXTH Annual Superhero 5k benefits Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan’s financial assistance program!

There will be a 5k, kids dash, and a superhero costume contest!

22 MONDAY Downtown Storytime 10:30am. Ypsilanti District Library, Downtown. ypsilibrary.org. Free Children ages 5 and under are welcome to enjoy stories, songs, and crafts!

23 TUESDAY Harry Potter Party 4:15pm. Saline District Library. salinelibrary.org. Free Students in Grades 2-6 can join for Harry Potter-themed games, crafts, and more!

Registration required.

Wind Chime Creation 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Malletts Creek. aadl.org. Free Create your own wind chime to hang in your garden or window using beach glass, beads, keys, shells, stones, and driftwood, but feel free to bring your own collection.

Recommended for grade 6-adult.

24 WEDNESDAY Meet the Providers at IHA Child Health 5:15-7:15pm. IHA Child Health. ihacares.com. Free Both expectant and veteran parents are invited to meet with a physician or certified nurse practitioner from IHA for an information session.

25

25 Thursday THURSDAY Ypsi Glow Balloonicorn Headband Workshop 7-8pm. $10. Unicorn Feed & Supply, Ypsilanti. unicornfeedsupply.com Prepare for this year’s YpsiGlow by making your own Glowing “Balloonicorn” Headband that will light up in the night!

Registration recommended.

26 FRIDAY Den of Darkness 6:30pm. Pittsfield Township Community Center. pittsfield-mi.gov. Free This Halloween fun is for ages 5-12!

Visit the Haunted Hallway and listed to a spooky story provided by AADL. Enjoy making crafts, try some donuts and cider, participate in a costume contest, and take home a treat bag!

Mini Succulent Pumpkins 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free Transform mini pumpkins into succulent planters! All materials provided.

Recommended for grades 6 and up.

27 SATURDAY Kids Club: Monster Bash 10am. Michaels. michaels.com. Free Join in the fun at this Halloween-themed party for kids at Michaels!

Tags & Treat Costume Party 10am. Zap-Zone. zap-zone.com. Free Enjoy a Halloween party complete with candy stations, a kid-friendly haunted house, and a costume contest!

Storytime at the Museum 11:15am. University of Michigan Museum of Art. umma.umich.edu. Free Hear a story in the galleries and participate in a fun, age-appropriate, hands-on activity. Parents must accompany children.

Siblings are welcome to join the group.

Meet in front of the UMMA Store.

Family Storytime 2:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Downtown. ypsilibrary.org. Free Children, along with their grown-ups, are invited to enjoy this storytime promoting positive social interactions and pre-reading skills. There will be stories, songs, and learning activities!

Animal Haunts: “Underground Adventures” 6pm. $10-$35. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Take a guided hike through Black Pond Woods, where you can watch skits about things that crawl, slither, tunnel, and grow underground. Have fun with harvest crafts, a hay jump, live animals, and more. Come in costume! Please be advised that trails are not stroller or wheelchair accessible.

28 SUNDAY Music Tools: Spooky Sound Lab 1pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free There are lots of ways to make spooky noise and scary sounds. Try your hand at making something creepy, and uncanny with instruments and effects. Grades 6 and up.

Scio Township Fire Department Halloween Party 1pm. Scio Township Fire Department. sciotownship.org. Free Explore the fire station, trucks, and equipment, have refreshments, visit the bounce houses, and play games.

Sandhill Crane Tour 2pm. $2/person-$5/family. Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, Chelsea. michigan.gov Local expert Bill Wells will show a film about Sandhill Cranes and lead a driving tour to view them in the fields around the Waterloo Recreation Area.

30 TUESDAY Disney Junior Dance Party 6pm. $32.50-$145. Michigan Theater. michtheater.org Sing and dance along to Disney Junior’s greatest hits with your favorite characters. Kids of all ages and their families are welcome to join in on the party. Live appearances by Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Vampirina, Elena of Avalor, Sofia the First, and Doc McStuffins!

31 WEDNESDAY Nature Storytime: Awesome Amphibians 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Explore and appreciate the outdoors, including live animal visits, hikes, stories, and age-appropriate hands-on activities.

Dress for the weather! Caregiver required and free.

marketplace Sundays Sunday Funnies 3pm. $5-12. The Mitten Theater, Plymouth. plymouthparc.com Family friendly improv comedy at the Mitten. Be amazed as the cast takes a suggestion from the audience and turns it into a hilarious story for all ages!

Mondays Knitting Night 6pm. Cultivate Coffee & TapHouse, Ypsilanti. cultivateypsi.com. Free All ages and levels welcome at this weekly craft gathering.

Tuesdays

LINE CLASSIFIEDS: Only $20 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.

DEADLINES: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

PAYMENT: Payment must be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).

MAIL OR DROP OFF:

Ann Arbor Family Press Classifieds, 3003 Washtenaw Blvd., Ann Arbor.

Little Scientists Club 9:30-10:30am. $12.50.

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. aahom.org The museum’s youngest visitors are welcome to explore their sense of wonder about the world through observation, hands-on activities, science-themed stories, and much more. Each week features a different theme. Older siblings welcome.

PHONE: 734-668-4044

Wednesdays

BIG TICKET SPECIAL! Are you selling a property/ home, classic/ antique cars, farm/ construction equipment, etc. We give you a FREE week when you place your ad in the network for Two Weeks. Call our office at 800450-6631 or contact a representative at this publication for more details. This is not intended for commercial use.

Little Bear Wednesdays 10-10:45am. $60/six sessions.

WideWorld Sports Center. wideworld-sports.com Children 18-48 months are invited to join in an introductory soccer experience. Classes are child-led rather than instructor led, and includes parent participation on the field.

Thursdays Parent & Toddler Art Sessions 10am. Riverside Arts Center, Ypsilanti. riversidearts.org. Free Studio 1 will be open for toddlers and their caretakers to get creative, messy, and social with hands-on activities!

Fridays

Breastfeeding Cafe: Group for Mothers and Babies 10am. Breastfeeding Center of Ann Arbor. bfcaa.com. Free This is a space for mothers and their babies to meet other breastfeeding mothers. Have a cup of tea, relax, and chat with others about what’s on your mind

Saturdays Creative Music Workshop 3pm. Riverside Arts Center, Ypsilanti. riversidearts.org. Free All experience levels are welcome to join in this inclusive workshop.

Work on improvisation techniques and writing original music, learn about music technology, and explore music theory.

E-MAIL: classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

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www.annarborfamily.com • October 2018 •

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