Chesapeake Family Life April 2023

INSIDE: Spring Cleaning & Decluttering

Going Solar in Annapolis • Nature City Challenge • Outdoor Sculpture Garden

Environmental Opportunities for Students

mar

Vol. 32 No. 6

PUBLISHER

Donna Jefferson ext. 212 djefferson@jecoannapolis.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jillian Amodio

Abby Grifno

Mary Ostrowski

Nancy Parode

ART DIRECTOR

Jenny Patrick C. ext. 202

AD DESIGN

Jessica Kannegieser

EVENTS AND ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER

Claire Darcy ext. 204 ClaireK@jecoannapolis.com

ADVERTISING

Linda Benkhadra linda@jecoannapolis.com 240-277-4215

Podcast

Laura Boycourt

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY: Jefferson Communications, LLC

121 Cathedral Street 3A Annapolis, MD 21401

Phone: 410-263-1641

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CIRCULATION AUDIT BY

elcome Spring! It’s time to shake things up. We’ve got articles this month on decluttering your house and then what to do with the things you don’t want anymore. Options are available to give your unwanted stuff away, sell it, or repurpose it. Claire is our office guru on repurposing and she has shared some great insights on how to make old things fit right into your current decorating schemes.

Spring is also a great time to get outside. Free playtime, gardening, volunteering for Project Clean Stream and participating in the City

Nature Challenge will give your family a great dose of Vitamin D and fresh air.

Check the calendar at ChesapeakeFamily. com/calendar to get the most updated list of events and volunteer opportunities. There are Easter, Earth Day and spring break events that we just couldn’t fit into this issue. Don’t forget to use some sunscreen!

Donna Jefferson, Publisher DJ@jecoannapolis.com

& notable

20th Year Celebration!

Annapolis Book Festival

The Annapolis Book Festival is celebrating 20 years bringing nationally renowned authors to the community to discuss their books and the craft of writing and featuring a day filled with children’s activities, live music, food, and a huge used book sale.

April 29th from 10am-5pm, the Festival is free and open to all and attendees are encouraged to make a day of it. It’s certain you’ll find something to appeal to everyone. If you need help deciding where to go or what to do, there will be dozens of volunteers on hand to answer questions and provide suggestions. Food trucks will be on-site to provide refreshments. If you’re in the market for some new reading materials, don’t forget to browse the Scholastic and used book sales. And check out the

In addition to author panels, this family-friendly festival offers

Blue Ribbon Project Open House

Join The Blue Ribbon Project on Saturday, April 15th from 11am until 3pm for our 2023 Open House and Family Fun Day at 45 Community Place, Crownsville, 21032, as we support abused and neglected children in our community. This annual event is a family-based event with various activities, games, a bounce house, an obstacle course, food trucks, and other activities. Live music, an antique fire truck and K9 demonstration are free for all participants. We’ll also have plenty of vendors on hand.

In addition to all of this, we’ll have police K-9 demonstrations, antique fire trucks for the kids to tour, and our friends from the 501st Legion from Star Wars. Please keep an eye on our Facebook Event Page for additional information. BlueRibbonProject.org

If you are interested in a vendor booth or wish to contribute to our silent auction, please send a message on Facebook or send an e-mail to admin@ blueribbonproject.org

In support of child victims of Child Abuse and Adult Survivors of Child Abuse, The Blue Ribbon Project offers 12 different programs that directly impact the community. Learn about these programs and how you can help children in need.

Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area (NRMA) Destination Spotlight

Wye Island has miles of trails through the woods that are easily accessible and great for families wanting an adventure.

There is one dirt road that accesses all 2,450 acres of Wye Island. The land is managed by the Maryland Park Service for recreation and as a suitable habitat for wintering waterfowl populations and other native wildlife. Located off of Route 50 about 20 miles east of the Bay Bridge, Wye Island is quiet and relatively flat. There are several portapotties on Wye Island but no other amenities.

There are six miles of hiking trails on the island. Drive all the way to the end of the dirt road and park at the fence to access the entrance to the Ferry Point Landing Trail. Twisted Osage Orange tree branches hang over the trail and in the summer provide a beautiful canopy. Walk all the way to the end of the trail and you will reach a small sandy beach at Drum Point. There is a

picnic table under the trees that has a beautiful view of the water.

The Holly Tree Trail is a short walk to the oldest tree on the island - a nearly 300 year old holly. It’s been beaten down by the weather but still standing. Be gentle around the tree. You can continue walking around the field and along the edge of the water to link onto the Schoolhouse Woods Nature Trail, or drive to the trail head.

The Schoolhouse Woods Nature Trail has a few spots with wooden bridges through wet, marshy areas. The trail is surrounded by a little over 14 acres of old growth forest with beautiful ancient oaks, tulip trees, beech, holly and pines. And as an added bonus, there are markers along the trail identifying the names of the trees. The trail is a loop of about 1.2 miles.

The rails are easy. A jogging stroller will probably suffice but there might be a few areas where it will take a little extra effort to move forward.

QUICK LOOK AT WYE ISLAND NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AREA (NRMA)

632 Wye Island Rd, Queenstown, (410) 827-7577, dnr.maryland.gov/ publiclands/Pages/eastern/wyeisland.aspx

ADMISSION Free

HOURS Open daily from sunrise to sunset.

PARKING free

PETS Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Solar Panels on Historic Home Annapolis

This charming Victorian house in the historic district of Annapolis has seen many changes. In the late 1920s it served as a school. At one point there was an orchard of fruit trees in the front yard. The 3-story house was built in 1893 and is now surrounded by beautiful gardens.

The latest change to this beauty was the addition of 31 solar panels as well as an EV station. Step one was obtaining approval from the Historic Preservation Committee. All exterior projects in the Historic District, whether or not exempted from a building permit, still require a certificate of approval.

There are less than a handful of homes in Historic Annapolis with solar panels. The homeowner hoped that by getting easy approval from

the Historic Commission that others would follow their example and install solar panels as well. Approval for any home improvement projects in Historic Annapolis are not always easy to come by.

The roof line is irregular, presenting challenges for solar panel installation, but enough panels have been installed that the household electric bill is reduced by 50%. The EV station, located at the end of the driveway, is intended to charge a soon to be purchased electric vehicle.

An app, called SolarEdge, offers free monitoring of the solar energy system. At any time you can see energy being produced and energy being used. If one of the panels isn’t functioning properly it is readily apparent on the app.

Solar panel on front roof

Solar panels and green roof on back of house

Solar Edge app

By Jillian Amodio

Spring Cleaning For Health And Wellbeing

Advice From The Experts

pring is finally upon us and with the arrival of a warmer, brighter season, often comes a desire to breathe new life into our spaces. Spring cleaning is nothing new. Many of us have thrown open our windows to allow the fresh air in while we put on a favorite playlist and tackle our list of chores. While tackling your spring cleaning list can lead to feeling invigorated and excited about your space again, it can also be difficult to decide where to start!

S

Why Is Spring Cleaning Important?

As we emerge from the winter months, signs of growth and renewal are all around us. It is only natural to want to emulate this fresh feeling in our living spaces as well. Cleaning, organizing, and decluttering can have health benefits both physically and mentally. As far as the physical benefits of spring cleaning, giving your home, office, or other frequently used spaces a good clean can get you up and moving which promotes things like heart health.

Changing sheets and pillowcases, and washing comforters and bedding can also aid in better sleep and reduce allergens. Cleaning and changing out air filters in the home as well as vacuuming and dusting can reduce allergens and enhance air quality which can be especially beneficial for those with asthma or seasonal allergies. As we come out of the winter months, we are hopefully leaving cold and flu season behind. Doing a deep clean and disinfecting surfaces can help rid the home of viruses, bacteria, and other irritants, and help give the immune system a break!

Our physical health isn’t the only thing that benefits, cleaning and organizing can enhance our mood, and our mental health as well. Clearing out our space can improve mental clarity, lift the mood, and be a great stress relief. This can be especially beneficial in the bedroom as it can help improve quality of sleep. Susie Salinas, owner of Systems by Susie says “Time and money, or the lack thereof, are huge stressors for most people. Home organization can save you both! When everything has a home, you are no longer wasting precious minutes in the morning searching for everything you need to get out the door. And when you (and your family members) know where everything is, you’re much less likely to buy things that you already have… Organization also reduces visual clutter, which can be anxiety-inducing for some people. When things are put away and you have less stimuli, your brain can relax a little bit more at the end of a long day. As one of our clients described it, she said she could finally “exhale.”

Janice Lentz, a Professional Organizer and owner of Heart and Home Organizing says “An organized home will bring peace to your living space. Studies show that living in an organized home can reduce a person’s stress level and improve their overall health. A person will sleep better in a room that is not full of clutter. A family is more likely to eat healthy meals if their kitchen is free of clutter. Having an organized home will also save you money. There is less food waste when you know what you have and where to find it.”

How To Get Started

The end product sounds rewarding, but the process of getting there can be daunting. While it is totally possible to DIY your spring cleaning to-do list, there are also many professionals willing to help with your organizing and cleaning needs, whether it be weekly, monthly, or on an as-needed basis. Janice and Susie have a few tips for getting started on your cleaning and organizing goals.

Common Pitfalls

Janice says many people let things like guilt prevent them from reducing clutter. “Many people can’t let go of items that have been given to them by someone they love,” she says. “if someone you love gives you a gift, their intention is for good. They want to make you happy or show you love. If that gift becomes a burden, it is not doing what it was intended to do.”

Susie says that another major problem people face is the dreaded “Drop Zone” “There are certain areas of our home that we use most during hurried times of the day - these places (like closets, bathrooms, kitchens, and mudrooms/entryways) can build clutter fast.” She says that prioritizing organizational systems and routines can help resolve the clutter and keep it from returning.

Susie also says that the burden of knowing where to find things should never fall to just one person. She says that things like labeling allows “where to find things” to become shared knowledge with the entire family, and even guests.

Top Tips

Both Janice and Susie say that starting small is the key to success. They recommend things like picking one small area like a junk drawer and not creating a stress-inducing situation by doing something like emptying the entire content of your bedroom closet on the floor all at once.

“The process is always the same.” Says Susie. “First, take everything out. Second, categorize things into groups. Third, edit and declutter. Get rid of anything that you don’t use or that doesn’t belong in that space. Fourth, add containment. Fifth and finally, add labels so your space STAYS organized.” Getting organized is only effective if it stays that way. Janice says that setting up systems and tips on how to keep things organized is the key to keeping up the trend. Her big tip, “Everything must have a home.” Susie says that her family engages in what they call a

“Weekly Reset.” “Each Sunday my kids put away piles around the house, do their laundry, and help out with various chores. My husband opens all the mail, deals with all the paperwork, and we do a calendar sync. I handle meal planning and food prep, including cleaning out the refrigerator. Our house is never “Pinterest Perfect” but everything has a home and can be reset quickly.”

You Can Organize On A Budget

The idea of hiring a professional cleaner or organizer might have you questioning the cost. The good news is, organizing your home can be done on any budget. “Although having a Pinterest-looking pantry or closet is wonderful, it is not necessary. Organizing products have greatly increased in price over the past 2 years,” says Janice. “You can often achieve the same organizing goals by repurposing some items you may already have in your home.” Susie says that decluttering alone makes a big difference and it costs you nothing!

When To Hire A Professional

If the idea of coming up with systems is too overwhelming, you might find it helpful to call in a professional. “More than anything, professional organizers make it easy to set up systems and organization for your home.” Says Susie. “Messes don’t scare us. Often people think they need to clean up or organize before hiring a pro organizer. We always tell our clients not to touch anything. It actually helps us to see where the natural “hot spots” are.”

Both Susie and Janice say that often the most difficult things to contend with are those feelings of guilt when it comes to handling items of sentimental value. They say that a professional can help look at things without emotion and help identify what should be let go of, what should be kept, and how best to store, display, or preserve it. “A professional will help you stay on target. Some people need permission to let go of things. Some people need to talk about the item to someone before they let it go,” says Janice.

By Claire Darcy

Sell, Donate or Repurpose?

What to Do After you Declutter

Great job, you’ve done it! You’ve decluttered, sorted through, and cleaned out that room. What do you do with all of the things you don’t want or need anymore? Rather than put more items into the local landfill why not sell, donate or repurpose your excess.

By the way, it looks amazing – so much brighter and cleaner! I bet you feel very accomplished and proud of yourself, as you should. It’s a task that takes pre-planning, time, a fair amount of elbow grease, and of course, the motivation to get it done.

So now the question is: What’s next? What is the next step to complete the entire project? What do you do with those items that have potential resale value? Or items that you would like to donate to worthy causes? Maybe you’re thinking you want to repurpose a piece into something else in another room in your house?

I’m not sure I’m ready to be Marie Kondo’s apprentice yet (Marie, of course, being a certified KonMari Consultant in Organizing that literally swept the clutter and dirt from so many homes over the last few years) but I have found success is doing all three things: Selling items through consignment. Donating to local charity stores. And repurposing items such as furniture to be used in a different room by using a bit of creativity to create something new.

CONSIGNMENT

Now it may seem counterintuitive to use that lovely clean room you just decluttered to create more piles of stuff but if you want to pursue different options for your items, it is important to sort through them and place them accordingly to where you want them to end up. And sometimes that choice isn’t necessarily up to you. For instance, if you have baby gear like a stroller, booster seat, or high chair that you want to donate, not all charity places will accept baby items. So if they are in good condition, you would be better off finding a local consignment sale like the Wee-Sale in order to pass along those items.

Return to Oz

Annapolis, 410-266-9390

ozconsignments.com

Wee-Sale Pop Up Children’s Consignment Sale

Annapolis, Landover wee-sale.com

Savvy Consignment

Severna Park, 410-647-1636

savvyconsignment.com

Honeysuckle Quality Consignment

Arnold, 410-349-4663

honeysuckleqc.com

Once Upon a Child

Gambrills, Glen Burnie onceuponachild.com

Play It Again Sports

Crofton, 443-292-8964

playitagainsports.com

DONATE

Donating items to places such as Goodwill or your local church does offer the benefit of not having to sort it before giving it away. You can gather your items all together in large bags and take them to the location during their drop off hours (times and days vary for every place). Bonus with donations is they will provide you with a tax form so you can claim the donation on your taxes. Whether you are donating clothes, shoes, furniture, or housewares, please make sure all items are clean and in relatively good condition.Books can be donated at:

Books for International Goodwill

451 Defense Highway, Annapolis.

There is a shed outside where books can be left. They have B.I.G. sales throughout the year. big-books.org

Neighborhood Little Libraries

Freecycle Freecycle.org

Goodwill

Various Locations

Items accepted vary by location. Goodwill.com

Planet Aid

Various Locations

Look for a yellow box. They accept clothes even if they are ripped or torn. planetaid.org

Purple Heart Foundation

Purpleheartfoundation.org

Restore (a division of Habitat for Humanity) habitatmm-restore.square.site

REPURPOSE

And now to my favorite part of the declutter process: the Repurpose. Whether the item comes from your own home or you are bargain shopping items from someone else’s efforts in decluttering (in my case, the saying of “One woman’s trash is another’s treasure,” holds true), it’s a fun process to take something old and transform it into something new and usable.

Recently, I have been frequenting a local charity shop in my town in search of furniture to complete my dining room. On three separate occasions, I have found gorgeous, well-made, and heavy pieces of furniture that I have repurposed. It’s a blessing and a curse that the items in charity shops and at consignment sales are constantly changing so you never know what you’ll find as pieces are coming in frequently as well as being sold quickly.

My first furniture project was redoing a long sideboard with a glass top. I wanted the finish to match the color

scheme of blues and grays in my dining room. With the help of Kris Foran at The Red Dresser in Edgewater, I used Annie Sloan Chalk Paint to transform the dark brown wood stain into a rich navy blue. My second piece was a cabinet with open shelves that I distressed and painted gray as a complement to the navy blue sideboard. The cabinet is now used to hold glassware and cocktail liquors. Another easy project that I’ve recently completed was simple: putting new fabric on kitchen stools so they matched my dining room chairs. No sewing was required at all and with a clearance deal on fabric, it only took me a few hours to measure, cut, and staple new fabric on the stools (which I bought at Goodwill).

WHERE TO BUY AND SELL REPURPOSED ITEMS

Ebay You can list up to 50 items a month for free, and eBay takes a 10-percent fee on the final sale.

FB Marketplace allows you to list free of charge and arrange shipment or pick up directly.

Poshmark has sales under $15, Poshmark takes a $2.95 commission and you keep the rest. And for sales over $15, Poshmark takes 20 percent of the sale.

Thred Up pays out after your items sell, and you can edit the price of a listed item at any time.

The Red Dresser paints, finishes, and sells furniture and other home decor using Annie Sloan Chalk Paint® and products.

Whether you end up organizing a neighborhood garage sale to earn extra cash, have your donated items picked up curbside by the folks at Purple Heart Association, or take a sewing lesson to learn how to alter clothes to fit your growing family, all of it is a job well done!

First Public Sculpture Garden in Annapolis

Enjoying Art in the Outdoors

Join the Annapolis Arts District and the Annapolis Library on West Street to celebrate a new sculpture garden that will feature large metal sculptures by guest artist David Hayes (1931-2013). The 15 sculptures, which have been seen around the City of Annapolis for the past year and a half, will be moved to the Michael E. Bush Library grounds on West Street for the April 15th opening event. The sculptures will remain on display throughout the summer so they can all be enjoyed in one place before they move on to another state. This will create one of the first public sculpture gardens in Annapolis.

Throughout the opening day (April 15th) there will be live music, art activities, poetry, storytime, yoga, and self-guided walking tours of the sculpture gardens. The son of the artist David Hayes will be on-site during the event to share stories and answer any questions you may have about the works. So grab your friends

and family and bring a picnic blanket or chairs and join us in the Sycamore Grove (the tree-lined area on the side of the library) for a day of food, fun, and art!

David Hayes Sculpture Garden Opening Event Schedule for April 15

• 9-10 am: Yoga in the Grove (area on the side of the library)

• 10am-1pm: Library opens & AZTK food truck on site

• 10-11: Kids Music: SQRRL (Doug Segree)

• 11-11:15: Story time with AACPL

• 11:15-11:30: Poetry

• 11:30-12:30: Fiddle Music: Gary and Leah

• Noon-2: Ice cream truck on site

• 12:30-12:45: Storytime

• 1-2: Jazz Music: the Kearse duo

• This is a FREE and family-friendly event. Food and ice cream can be purchased from the trucks during the event.

April Events

Every Thursday: 10:30 am

Creek Critters Nature Walk

Maryland Day Weekend:

$1 admission April 1 & 2

April 1 Meet a Waterman, 2 pm

April 2 Seafood Demo, 2 pm

Badge and Journey Workshops for Girl Scouts at all levels (see website for details)

April 22 Animal Party! ages 5-12 yr

April 29-30 Pirates Parlay at County Fairgrounds

April 24 Parenting Workshop: Good-for-You Food Fun (on Zoom)

Support CCM - Adopt a Plant! Details on our website

By Donna Jefferson

Planting a Child’s Garden

The best way for kids to learn where their food comes from and the cycle of growing, pollinating and eating is to plant a garden with a child. In fact you don’t even need an entire garden. A couple of pots will do.

New to gardening?

If you already have a spot for gardening in your yard, you’ve done half of the work. Your garden should be in the sun at least half of the day, have access to water, and good soil. You can add compost and topsoil to improve the condition of your soil. Pull out all of the weeds and turn over the dirt so that it

isn’t packed tight and will be easier to plant.

If you are using pots, find a good spot for them that is sunny and close to water. There should be a hole at the bottom of the pot so that excess water can drain out, but that also means you need a plant saucer underneath so that water isn’t running out onto your deck or patio.

Let Kids Do the Work

Your kids can help you dig in the dirt, turn up the soil, or put dirt in the pots. Use small tools that are easy for kids to hold. Give them advance warning that they might find worms and let them

know how beneficial worms are to good soil.

Best Plants to Eat

The joy of gardening comes from the beauty of the plant or growing something you can eat. Cherry tomatoes are great for kids. They grow quickly, kids can watch the blossoms turn into tomatoes and gradually ripen. Then they can pick the tomatoes and eat them right off of the vine. Choose a variety of tomato that is sweet and not made for sauce. The yellow Sun Sugars are good bets. Just read the label before you buy the plants to find out what taste to expect.

Pole beans are also a good option. They grow fast, climb up poles, and dangle the beans to make for easy picking. Kids can even help make a trellis for the beans to grow on. Good options for growing beans include the Rattlesnake Pole, Lazy Housewife Pole and Purple Potted Pole. You can start beans indoors and then plant outside once it’s warm enough. Make sure to read information on the seed package or the seedlings at the store to make sure you are buying a plant that will produce the beans that you want.

Best Flowering Plants

Marigolds, Nasturtium and Morning Glory grow fast and produce pretty flowers. They can be started from seeds or are usually easy to find as seedlings in stores. As a bonus, the smell of Marigolds help keep aphids and other insect pests from tomatoes.

Native Plants

Planting flowers that are native to Maryland will reduce the work you need to do since they thrive in the local climate and soil. They also provide a source of nectar for butterflies and birds, which means you can enjoy the beautiful flowers as well as the visitors to each plant. Monarch and Swallowtail butterflies enjoy Black-eyed Susan, Butterfly Weed and Joe Pye Weed. These beauties should bloom yearafter-year.

Care After Planting

The work isn’t done after the seeds are in. Teach kids how to water their plants, looking for signs of dryness. Weeds? That’s a lesson in constant observation and carefully pulling out the offenders. Enjoy watching your kids tend their plants and enjoy the food that are produced.

More information about native plants.extension.umd. edu/resource/recommendednative-plants-maryland

DIRECTORY CAMP

ACADEMIC

Summer at Summit Edgewater, 410-798-0005 thesummitschool.org

1st grade-8th grade Camp Summit is for bright children entering grades 1-8 who struggle with reading, writing and math. Academic mornings include one hour each of reading, math, oral/ written expression. Afternoons are filled with fun and recreation!

See our ad on page 27

ENVIRONMENTAL/ OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Eco Adventures Millersville, 410-987-1300 ecoadventures.org

5 years -12th grade

Each of our award-winning specialty camps are themed and designed to get kids excited about our natural world. From Animal Caretakers and Training, Marine Biology, Art camp, Out of this World, and even Wizarding Worlds... At Eco Adventures, we believe in kids "doing" not watching. Whether it's through a handson encounter with one of our live animal ambassadors, an experience in our simulated rainforest, an activity in our outdoor classrooms, wild crafts, games/competitions, fossil dig, or a demo by visiting scientists...let your child ignite their passion for the outdoors!

Experience the Extraordinary!

See our ad on page 27

MULTIPLE THEMES/ GENERAL CAMP PROGRAMS

Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks Annapolis, 410-222-7313 aacounty.org/recparks

Ages 3-12th grade

Anne Arundel Recreation and Parks is THE destination for camps and programs for all ages including: Summer Day Camps, Summer Fun Centers, Art Camps, Science and Engineering Camps, Theatre Performance and Dance Camps, Sports Camps, Summer Aquatics Camps, Nature Exploration Camps, Teens on the Go, and Adaptive Day Camps for all abilities.

See our ad on page 25

Camp Wabanna Edgewater, 410-798-0455 campwabanna.org

4 years-16 years

Camp Wabanna is a day and overnight camp for ages 4-16 located on a 23 acre peninsula at the convergence of the Chesapeake Bay and Rhode River. We offer adventure based programming like sailing, kayaking, crabbing and fishing, banana boating and tubing, rock climbing, ziplining, giant swing, and team building. All geared to grow the campers in basic life skills in a faith filled environment.

See our ad on page 6

Summer at KEY Annapolis, 443-321-2575

keyschool.org/community/ summeratkey

3.5 years – 12th grade

With more than 150 fun and enriching camps to choose from in 2023, we are confident that you'll find something to match your child's interests. From themed traditional camps for the youngest campers to specialty STEM, cooking, art, and athletic camps, we are committed to creating a memorable summer experience for all of our campers. Back this year is the option to combine a morning and afternoon camp to create your own unique full day! June 20 to August 4.

See our ad on page 02

Summer at Severn School

Arnold, Severna Park 410-647-7700

severnschool.com/programs/ summer-programs

3.5 years – 12th grade

Summer at Severn provides a safe and stimulating environment for students as young as age 3.5 through those entering 12th grade. Our weeklong sessions are made up of fun and educational activities centered on different weekly themes.

See our ad on page 04

Visit us online for even more details on each camp at ChesapeakeFamily.com/ findcamps

By Mary Ostrowski

Exploring the Benefits of Outdoor Play

Why Your Child Needs to Unplug and Go Outside

The joy of play! We grow up playing as a default. Everything is new, curious, and filled with possibilities. We play, not even realizing the depth of learning that is occurring. Yet so much is happening!

When children play, they’re building skills that range from fine motor to cognitive to problem solving.

Play promotes creativity and problem solving. Your child has an idea to construct a pirate ship. Great! How will they build it?

From cutting paper to crossing the monkey bars, play builds fine and gross motor coordination.

Through simple doll play, children enhance their imagination and communication skills as they create dialogue and activities for their dolls.

Play provides opportunities for understanding different emotions and practicing empathy. Children share Matchbox cars and recognize other points of view as they navigate differing ideas for how to achieve the same outcome as each other.

When they’re not adult-directed, children must direct themselves, naturally allowing kids to test and develop their leadership capability.

Now add outdoor play to the equation, and we increase the benefits even more.

4 REASONS OUTDOOR PLAY IS VITAL FOR YOUR CHILD

The great outdoors offers fresh air, sunshine, rain or even snow. If playing outdoors isn’t your child’s first choice, start with 20 minutes and watch as that amount of time naturally begins to

extend. Whether your child is in flip-flops or rain boots, make time to get outside and play every day!

1. The great outdoors helps us sleep. It’s no secret that sunshine provides much-needed Vitamin D, but why does it matter? Vitamin D is an important element for building and maintaining a strong immune system. It also promotes the production of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that supports sleep. While one can take Vitamin D or melatonin as a supplement, why bother when as little as 15-20 minutes outside in the sunshine will aid your body in producing them naturally? Fun fact: playing outdoors even on a cloudy day will keep your child’s circadian rhythm in balance. When our eyes absorb the change in light (from indoors to outdoors), our body recognizes the shift and still creates melatonin.

2. Outdoor play inspires more active play. “Don’t throw that ball in the house!” Sound familiar? The open space that comes with being outside automatically gives children the freedom to be more expansive with their bodies. There’s more room to run, jump rope, swing or create art with sidewalk chalk. This type of play builds gross motor skills and strength.

3. Outdoor play encourages risk taking. It can be nerve-wracking to sit back and watch your kids spread their wings. Activities like bide riding, scooter scooting, and skateboarding almost always come with their fair share of cuts and bruises. Climbing trees or roller skating can equate to a broken bone. No parent chooses to put their child in harm’s way, but encouraging these kinds of risks builds confidence and resilience.

4. Take a break from screen time. Playing outside fosters an appreciation of nature. Even more, it enables an oft-needed break from electronics. There are a variety of reasons this is a good thing. Here’s one you might not know: Studies have shown that children who play outdoors more often than their peers are less likely to develop nearsightedness. Why this is the case is still largely unknown, though one theory being tested is whether taking a break from work that is “close” (i.e. reading or screen time) decreases stress on the eyes. Either way you look at it, there seems good reason to head outside for while!

ACTIVITIES TO MOTIVATE HEADING OUTSIDE

Some kids love being outside for hours on end. For others, it’s a struggle to get them out. If the latter is true, talk with your child about why outdoor play time is important to you. Help them understand why you’re “forcing” them to do something they’d rather not do. Like adults, children are much more likely to try something if they understand how it can help them.

Two tips for helping ease the process. Set up a play date with other families who kids enjoy playing outside. Most of us are more open to trying something if our friends are doing it, so

use that positive influence to your advantage. Second, make going outside fun. Give your child a place to plant small plants or vegetables. Dig for bugs and start an insect collection. Create leaf rubbings or use various objects from outside as paint brushes – see what types of texture you get from using different painting tools. Go on a scavenger hunt, or try out the age-old games of tag and hide-and-seek.

The benefits of outdoor play are many, so stand up, stretch, and head on out!

By Donna Jefferson

Environmental Volunteer Opportunities for Students

The summer provides a great opportunity for students to explore their interests and help out in the community. These environmental organizations are looking for volunteers.

5 Minute Foundation

5minutefoundation.org

Beach clean-ups

Anne Arundel Water Stewards Academy Aawsa.org

WSA serves as the hub where anyone interested in working on water protection in Anne Arundel County can come together.

Arundel Rivers Federation Arundelrivers.org

With wet and messy volunteer opportunities or clean and dry volunteer opportunities, Arundel Rivers Federation will find a way to get you plugged into helping bring back healthy waters for our rivers.

C-StREAM Program chesapeake.org/c-stream

C-StREAM is designed to create pathways for underrepresented* students to pursue careers in environmental research and management. C-StREAM is intended for any continuing undergraduate, at any level of study (including seniors pursuing graduate studies in the fall) who identifies as being one or both of the following:

• a person of color

• a first-generation college student

Capital SUP CapitalSUP.com

Dedicated to clean water and teaching others how to paddle.

Interdisciplinary Consortium for Applied Research in the Environment icare.umbc.edu

ICARE stands for “Interdisciplinary Consortium for Applied Research in the Environment.” Our NRT program is a cross-sector network of environmental scientists and engineers who are committed to increasing the diversity of the environmental workforce and engaging the community in local

environmental research in and around Baltimore Harbor.

Jug Bay jugbay.org

The Sanctuary strives to maintain and foster a supportive and educational volunteer program in which volunteers learn about the natural world while contributing to the Sanctuary’s education, scientific understanding, and habitat protection goals.

Live Water LiveWater.org

Ccurrently supports three initiatives: within the Veteran community, underprivileged and disabled youth, and promoting clean waterways.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/pages/ striped-bass/index.aspx

The Striped Bass Program is responsible for monitoring and characterizing the fisheries in the Chesapeake Bay and on the Atlantic coast.

Minorities In Aquaculture mianpo.org

The goal is to educate women of color on the environmental benefits of aquaculture and support them as they launch and sustain their careers in the field, growing the seafood industry and creating an empowering space for women along the way.

NOAA fisheries.noaa.gov

2023 deadline is Feb 20, although this is an annual program. NOAA internships are a great way for college students to explore careers in marine-, environmental-, and climate-related fields. Our summer interns work with NOAA experts for roughly 12 weeks during the summer.

SERC serc.si.edu/citizen-science/projects/ chesapeake-water-watch

We are partnering with Riverkeepers and individuals collecting data with simple-to-use scientific equipment and applications on their smartphones.

Spa Creek Conservancy SpaCreek.org

Volunteers are needed to help with water monitoring, shoreline and headwaters clean-up, invasive removal, and fish seining, identification and counting.

Severn River Association severnriver.org

Here are some SRA initiatives where we could use your help. Search for Under Water Grasses. Monitor Water Quality, Restore Oyster Reefs, Get Involved with SRA

Wild Kid Acres wildkidacres.org

Come learn about our growth and how our decision making process could impact your life and help lead your community. Help build our new barn, care for animals, work on the land and improve the environment.

Join the 2023 City Nature Challenge

Identify Plants and Critters with iNaturalist

You can be part of a challenge to identify all of the plants and critters in the greater Baltimore/Washington area. Join in the City Nature Challenge by making observations of as many species as possible between April 28-May 1, 2023.

The City Nature Challenge will help us find out what species are living in cities around the world. Volunteers

from all over are being asked to explore nature around them and document the species they find using the iNaturalist app. Biodiversity is essential to a healthy environment and scientists need help gathering data. That’s what this Citizen Science project will do between April 28-May

All you need to do is go outside and take pictures using the app iNaturalist. After May 1 all of the species captured in the photos will be identified and

categorized to discover how many unique species are living in our area. You can do the City Nature Challenge on your own, or join a planned event with a group that will explore a specific area. All you need is a phone loaded with the iNaturalist app and the willingness to hunt and photograph different species.

Remember, the CNC is happening between April 28th and May 1st, 2023. During that 4-day window, go out and make as many observations as you can! It doesn’t matter where you are in the DMV. Your observation locations are automatically recorded in iNaturalist. Scientists will use those locations to count observations in each city.

How to participate:

• Make sure you have the iNaturalist app on your phone or tablet

• Join an event, or go out into nature

• Make observations between 12am April 28th and 12pm May 1 using the iNaturalist app

You can find more information at: The Baltimore area challenge is sponsored by the National Aquarium aqua.org/support/conservation/citynature-challenge-baltimore

The Washington DC area information is found here: citynaturechallengedc.org Observation events will be listed on ChesapeakeFamily.com/ NatureChallenge

All Aboard!

Visit Maryland’s Railroad Museums

by Nancy Parode

Maryland’s Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad, which broke ground in 1828, was the first commercial railroad in the United States chartered to transport both freight and passengers. The B&O Railroad’s Ellicott City Station, constructed in 1831, is the nation’s oldest existing railroad depot. Baltimore’s Carrollton Viaduct, built in 1829 over Gwynn’s Falls, is still in regular use today.

Given Maryland’s important role in U.S. railroad history, it’s no wonder that locals and visitors alike flock to railroad museums across the state. Many of these railroad museums feature a model train layout that showcases local railroad history. Most Maryland railroad museums are relatively small. Hours often vary by season, so you’ll need to plan ahead. Some railroad museums charge admission. Several Maryland railroad museums offer highly popular special events during the Christmas season. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, especially if you’ll be going inside rail cars.

B&O Railroad Museum

Maryland’s best-known railroad museum features the B&O Railroad’s roundhouse, its working turntable, rolling stock from the earliest days of U.S. railroad history, and a family-friendly

approach to understanding the importance of railroads and rail travel throughout our country’s history. You’ll find kid-friendly spaces both indoors and out. Train ride tickets, which cost extra, are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Baltimore Streetcar Museum

This museum’s claim to fame is its impressive collection of working streetcars from various eras. Your admission fee allows you as many streetcar rides as you want. On a typical day, you can ride three different streetcars. The museum’s exhibits focus on Baltimore’s streetcar history. They include videos, timelines, photographs, models, and artifacts. Knowledgeable volunteers can answer your questions about Baltimore’s streetcars.

Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum

This historic railroad station, located in Old Ellicott City, is filled with railroad station furnishings and artifacts, including a ticketing office and a ladies’ waiting room. An impressive model railroad runs along the entire wall of the adjacent Freight House. Don’t miss the B&O Railroad caboose, which dates to 1927.

Gaithersburg Community Museum

This museum is next to an active rail line (including a MARC station) and across the street from Griffith Park. Outside, you’ll find a steam engine from 1918, a 1982 caboose with a very child-friendly interior, and a 1953 rail diesel car. Inside the museum, exhibits created with kids in mind take you back in time to Gaithersburg’s earlier days, when general stores, community banks, and one-room schools were common.

National Capital Trolley Museum

This museum got its start before trolleys/streetcars began to vanish from the streets of Washington, DC. Founded in 1959, the museum began offering trolley trips on its rail lines in Northwest Branch Park ten years later. Today’s visitors can travel this same route on a historic trolley car. The museum’s guided tours (included in the price of admission) showcase museum exhibits and a large collection of American and European trolley cars made in North America and Europe.

Western Maryland Railway Historical Society

The Western Maryland Railway, carried passengers and freight, primarily coal, between stations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The Western Maryland Railway Historical Society Museum, located in Carroll County’s Union Bridge, is housed in the railway’s station and company offices. Exhibits from the Western Maryland Railway’s 131-year history include a Centralized Traffic Control panel, two caller’s boards, signal lights, tools, and historic photographs.

Brunswick Heritage Museum

Brunswick’s railroad heritage is celebrated on the second floor of this local history museum, which depicts the B&O Railroad’s influence on Brunswick’s development. On the third floor, you’ll find a HO scale model of the B&O railroad line between Washington, DC, and Brunswick.

Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum and City Park Train Hub

While Hagerstown’s roundhouse no longer exists, you can still see rail cars and artifacts from the city’s railroad heyday. At the Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum, you’ll find rolling stock, railroad office equipment, railroad uniforms and headwear, and photographs. The City Park Train Hub features rolling stock you can climb on, a small museum, and a picnic pavilion.

Cumberland Railroad Museum

Located in Cumberland’s Canal Place, this museum showcases the city’s history as a transportation hub. Several railroad companies constructed rail lines connecting Cumberland to nearby towns, distant cities, and logging and mining areas. Exhibits showcase artifacts from many of these railroad companies, including tools, signs, and photographs.

Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum

Chesapeake Beach was built as a resort town. A railroad linked it to Washington, DC. You can learn about early 20th century life in Chesapeake Beach and the journeys people took to visit the town in the historic railroad depot, built in 1898. Collection highlights include railroad artifacts, vintage clothing, amusement park souvenirs, and the Dolores, the only remaining railroad car from the Chesapeake Beach Railway.

Sudlersville Train Station Museum

Sudlersville’s historic train station, built in 1885, houses this museum, which is primarily dedicated to preserving the history of favorite son Jimmie Fox, who played Major League Baseball from 1925 to 1945 and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1951. The museum’s exhibits also focus on the history of Sudlersville and the Queen Anne’s and Kent Railroad.

BOAT PHOTO COOURTESY OF NANCY PARODE

go out

TONS OF FUN THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH

Bunnyland

APRIL 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 10, 15, 16 butlersorchard.com/festivals/bunnyland

Hayrides, egg hunt, jumping pad, farm animals, barnyard buddies, and visit with the Country Bunny. $12–$15. 9 a.m–6 p.m. Online reservations strongly recommended. Butlers Orchard, Germantown.

1 Saturday

16TH ANNUAL PEEPSHOW

April 1-10. This sweet fundraising event at the TownMall of Westminster features marshmallow masterpieces, including sculptures, dioramas, mosaics and even videos, all crafted from or inspired by PEEPS®, those Free. 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. TownMall of Westminster, Westminster. MarshmallowPEEPshow.com.

2ND ANNUAL EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA

One of Maryland's Largest and Most

Accessible Easter Egg Hunts & Spring Festival with Over 80,000 Eggs 11 a.m. Waldorf. explorecharlescounty.com.

ANNUAL EASTER EGG FESTIVAL

Join the crowds and get ready for a fun-filled day filled with egg hunts, arts and crafts, face painting, entertaining performers, tasty food trucks, products and craft exhibitors, and, of course, $5.00. 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 42455 Fairgrounds Road, Leonardtown. visitstmarysmd.com.

FIRST LANDING WINE & ARTS FESTIVAL

Spend the day with your family and friends at the St. Clement's Museum. There are four wineries to select from if you'd like a glass of wine. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Lexington Park. visitstmarysmd.com.

LEGEN-DAIRY DISCOVERIES

Join us on April 1 for Legen-dairy Discoveries at Hard Bargain Farm!

Interact with our barnyard animals close up! $0.00 - $15.00. 4-6 p.m. Alice Ferguson Foundation, Accokeek. fergusonfoundation.org.

SHORELINE CLEANUP

Have fun along the water and make a difference by cleaning up our shoreline. Cleanup supplies will be provided. Bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and close-toed shoes. Free. 9-11 a.m. Fort Smallwood Park, Pasadena. aacounty.org.

SPCA OF ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY'S HOP INTO SPRING WITH BUNNIES!

April 1, 2, 5. Hop into Spring with the SPCA at PAWS at the Mall and take photos with our adoptable bunnies!! $5 Donation, and all proceeds go to the care of the bunnies at PAWS. $5.00. 1-4 p.m. Paws at the MallWestfield Mall, Annapolis. bit.ly.

SPRING BAZAAR

Featuring a variety of local crafters and vendors, including jewelry, baskets, home decorative items, photography, hand-painted plates and

glassware, knitted items and much more! Free. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. St. Margaret's Church, Annapolis.

SPRING BREAK

April 1-10. Spend Spring Break with the whole family at Port Discovery! $21.95. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Port Discovery Children's Museum, Baltimore. cli.re.

2 Sunday ART FEST

ArtFest is a day of creativity for all ages featuring the arts at Maryland Hall, including art and dance demonstrations, art sales and exhibitions, live entertainment, **hands-on Free. 1-4 p.m. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, Annapolis. marylandhall.org.

FIRST SUNDAY FARMER'S MARKET

At Honey’s Harvest Farm, we focus on growing food and medicine using the principles of permaculture and regenerative agriculture. We start by building healthy, living soil that is packed with a 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Honey's Harvest Farm, Lothian. honeysharvest.com.

SEAFOOD FROM THE CHESAPEAKE

Seafood cooking demo with Vince Leggett, Admiral of the Bay and author of books about the Black Watermen of the Chesapeake area. Includes admission to Chesapeake Children's Museum for the day. $1.00. 2-3 p.m. The Chesapeake Children's Museum, Annapolis. marylandday.org.

3 Monday

SPRING BREAK CAMP: DIG, PLANT, GROW

April 3-6. Dig in and explore the gardens of Calvert Marine Museum. Learn about the parts of a plant while we plant seeds and design our own gardens. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons.calvertmarinemuseum.com.

5 Wednesday

FAMILY FIELD DAY

https://www.calvertcountymd.gov/calendar.

aspx?EID=13465 North Beach. co.cal.md.us.

6 Thursday

CREEK CRITTERS

April 6, 13, 20, 27. Year-round observations of the wildlife in the creek and surrounding woodlands outside of Chesapeake Children's Museum. All ages are welcome. Ideal for preschoolers. $5.00. 10:30-11 a.m. The Chesapeake Children's Museum, Annapolis. theccm.org.

7 Friday

ANNMARIE AFTER HOURS (FAMILYFRIENDLY FAIRY NIGHT)

$3.00 - $5.00. 5-7 p.m. Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Art Center, Dowell. annmariegarden.org.

FIRST FOSSIL FRIDAY!

Fossil hunters, bring your fossil finds from the Calvert Cliffs or other local areas from 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. to be identified! 1-4:30 p.m. Solomons. calvertmarinemuseum.com.

HALF-PRICE FRIDAY NIGHT

April 7, 14, 28. Overview Friday is your night! $15.00 - $20.00. 5 p.m. National Aquarium, Baltimore. aqua.org.

TALES & TAILS AT IRVINE NATURE CENTER

April 7, 14, 21, 28. Tales & Tails at Irvine Nature Center IS BACK! Free. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills. explorenature.org.

8 Saturday

BEATBOX DADS AT EASTPORT/ANNAPOLIS NECK LIBRARY

Join us at the Eastport/ Annapolis Neck Library to watch Mr. Root and Mr. Free. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Eastport-Annapolis Neck Community Library, Annapolis. aacpl.net.

EASTER EGG HUNT

In this family-friendly activity, participants will tour the Hammond-Harwood House, go on an Easter egg hunt in the garden, and paint the wooden eggs that are found. Ticket price is per child. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Hammond Harwood House, Annapolis. hammondharwoodhouse.org.

FOSSIL EGG HUNT

Participate in our annual fossil egg hunt! Look for eggs with real fossils inside, hidden around the museum. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons. calvertmarinemuseum.com.

KID'S FEST PRESENTED BY HOWARD COUNTY RECREATION & PARKS

Come experience what Howard County Recreation & Parks has to offer your children at Kid’s Fest at Meadowbrook Park! $8.00 - $10.00. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Meadowbrook Park and Athletic Complex, Ellicott City. howardcountymd.gov.

WEEKEND WORKSHOPS

April 8, 15, 22, 29. Calling all artists! Get creative during our drop-in workshops for all ages. Learn about artists and changemakers

and create art inspired by their stories. Add to Calendar Free. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. National Portrait Gallery, Washington. npg.si.edu.

9 Sunday

HANDS-ON HISTORY DAY

Visit the Museum of Historic Annapolis on the second Sunday of every month for Hands-On History Days. $0.00 - $5.00. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Museum of Historic Annapolis, Annapolis. annapolis.org

10 Monday

CHESAPEAKE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

Indoor and outdoor exhibits about animals, Latin America, radio, the 1918 pandemic, and more. Explore the East Trail to see wetlands and creek wildlife. Explore the West Trail to find the Truck Pit! $1.00 - $8.00. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Chesapeake Children's Museum, Annapolis. theccm.org.

12 Wednesday

RIDE WITH A RANGER

Jump on your bike and ride to the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail! Join Park Rangers for a fun and educational bike ride. $5.00. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. B & A Trail, Annapolis. aacounty.org.

13 Thursday

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

Join us for a Family Movie Night! Bring your favorite snack, blanket, and/or camp chair and get comfy for this indoor event. Free. 6-8 p.m. Deale Community Library, Deale. aacpl.net.

14 Friday

18TH ANNUAL CSM JAZZFEST

JazzFest returns to the College of Southern Maryland's La Plata Campus for its 18th year! 7:30 a.m. St. Mary's County Government, Leonardtown. stmarysmd.com.

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

Bring a swimsuit and towel. Activities include games, swimming, and movies. Drop-off begins at 4:45pm and children must be picked up by 7:45pm. $15.00 - $21.00. 4:45-7:45 p.m. Arundel Olympic Swim Center, Annapolis.

15 Saturday

ASIAN AMERICAN PACIFIC ISLANDER CULTURAL FESTIVAL

Join us to learn about and celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander culture. There will be dancing, food, art projects, games and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Calvert Library Prince Frederick, Prince Frederick. calvertlibrary.libnet.info.

PARADE - THE NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

Along Constitution Ave between 7th & 17th Streets NW with giant helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands, and performers. $25.00 - $40.00. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Constitution Avenue NW, Washington. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

SAKURA MATSURI-JAPANESE STREET FESTIVAL

The festival features over 24 hours of Japanese cultural performances on four stages (including J-Pop, traditional Japanese music, and martial arts) and a diverse range of cultural exhibitors, Free. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

16 Sunday

FIRE PREVENTION FAIR

You are not going to want to miss this fun filled family event!!! There will be something for everyone. Craft tables, side by side burn trailer, station tour, demos and more! Free. 12-4 p.m. Eastport Fire Station 36, Annapolis.

RED SHOE SHUFFLE 5K RUN AND WALK

The Happiest Morning in Maryland is right around the corner! $10.00 - $45.00. 8:30-11 a.m. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Maryland, Baltimore. redshoeshuffle.org.

19 Wednesday

WEE-SALE CHILDREN'S CONSIGNMENT SALE

April 19-23. Wee-Sale Children's Consignment

Sale- HUGE seasonal Children's Consignment sale with thousands of items: toys, clothes (sizes 0-16), baby gear, maternity clothes, books, and more. Free. 5-9 p.m. Bay 50 Shopping Center, Annapolis. wee-sale.com.

22 Saturday

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL & MARKET

Free. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Art Center, Dowell. annmariegarden.org.

EARTH DAY- FREE ADMISSION SATURDAY

Celebrate Earth Day with Irvine. Meet Irvine’s resident animal ambassadors and learn how we can protect wildlife and their natural surroundings. Free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills. explorenature.org.

EASTERN SHORE SEA GLASS & COASTAL ARTS FESTIVAL

Saturday, April 22, 10am–5pm & Sunday, April 23, 10am–4pm (RAIN OR SHINE)

All tickets include admission on both Saturday & Sunday, no single-day 10 a.m.-4 p.m. CBMM, Saint Michaels. cbmm.org.

FOSSIL FIELD EXPERIENCE

Come and explore the fossils at Cove Point. Learn more about fossils: where to find them, how to identify them, and what they can tell us about the past. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Cove Point 3500 Lighthouse Boulevard, Lusby. calvertmarinemuseum.com.

THE WORLD AND ME FAMILY PROGRAM: EARTH DAY CELEBRATION WITH SMITHSONIAN GARDENS!

KIDS & FAMILIES

Learn more about your place in the world through explorations of nature and culture. Come celebrate Earth Day with The World & Me! 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. National Museum of Natural History, Washington. naturalhistory. si.edu.

23 Sunday

DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA MAKER FAIRE

The Downtown Columbia Maker Faire returns to Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods in April! Free. 12-5 p.m. Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, Columbia. innerarbortrust.org.

TASTE OF MARYLAND 2023

First festival highlighting all the businesses SOMD has to offer! 10 a.m. Waldorf. explorecharlescounty.com.

24 Monday

MO WILLEMS - BE THE BUS & DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS 20TH ANNIVERSARY ED. - AT SIDWELL FRIENDS

A family event in celebration of 20 years of The Pigeon with Mo Willems! Click here to purchase tickets for the event $15.99. 6 p.m. Washington. politics-prose.com.

26 Wednesday

RIDE WITH A RANGER

Jump on your bike and ride to the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail! Join Park Rangers for a fun and educational bike ride. $5.00. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. B & A Trail, Annapolis. aacounty.org.

27 Thursday

3RD ANNUAL SPRING DANCE CONCERT April 27-28. A spectacle of emotion and movement brought together by dancers in the PGCC Dance Program, where passion is on display and ready to enchant the audience. 7:30 p.m. Prince George's Community College, Largo. pgcc.edu.

28 Friday

MARITIME PERFORMANCE SERIES: LULU'S FATE

Lulu's Fate performs a mix of music from the Appalachian, southern string band and country blues traditions, as well as early swing, gospel, original tunes and covers from Hank Williams. 7-9 p.m. Solomons. calvertmarinemuseum.com.

29 Saturday

CAROUSEL DAY

See info on page 7.

CAROUSEL DAY

Join us for a festival event in celebration of Glen Echo Park's 102-year-old Dentzel Carousel as it opens for the season! Free. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo. glenechopark.org.

GOOD NEIGHBORS GROUP

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL

This is the Good Neighbors Group’s 21st Annual Earth Day festival. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company, Severna Park. annapolisgreen.com.

HIKE TO THE PATAPSCO RIVER

The Howard County Conservancy will host a hike to the Patapsco River on April 29. Free. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Howard County Conservancy, Woodstock. howardnature.org.

JAZZ IN THE WOOD + NAVY COMMODORES

Join the Inner Arbor Trust and the Howard County Public School System Fine Arts Office for a free full day of jazz at the 4th annual Jazz in the Woods! Free. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, Columbia. innerarbortrust.org.

THE MARYLAND SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND ANNUAL SEE BEYOND FESTIVAL

The Maryland School for the Blind (MSB) will host the second annual See Beyond Festival on Saturday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at its campus (3501 Taylor Ave, Nottingham, MD 21236). Free. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Maryland School for the Blind, Baltimore. marylandschoolfortheblind.org.

NATURE OBSERVATION IN PATTERSON PARK

Overview Join the Aquarium's Conservation team in Patterson Park for a nature observation event as part of Baltimore's efforts in the 2023 City Nature Challenge. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. National Aquarium, Baltimore. aqua.org.

ROAR FOR KIDS 2023

BALTIMORE – Kennedy Krieger Institute’s ROAR for Kids 5K road race and low-mileage fun walk encourages individuals of all ages to show off their wild side and team spirit. $10.00 - $40.00. 6:30-10:30 a.m. Oregon Ridge Park, Cockeysville. ROARforKids.KennedyKrieger.org .

SOUTHERN MARYLAND CELTIC FESTIVAL

Celebrating the cultural heritage of the seven Celtic Nations: Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man, Brittany, Cornwall, and Galicia/Asturias

Join us for a day of fun celebrating our Celtic $25.00. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum, Saint Leonard. facebook.com.

SPRING PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

April 29-30. https://www.calvertcountymd.gov/ calendar.aspx?EID=13603 Hallowing Point Park, Prince Frederick. co.cal.md.us.

WALK FOR THE WOODS 2023

Join Scenic Rivers Land Trust for our signature community event celebrating the joy of the outdoors and our local, protected woods. Free. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Bacon Ridge Natural Area, Crownsville.

30 Sunday

CITY NATURE CHALLENGE

CRITTERS OF THE CREEK

Head to the shoreline to get your feet wet and discover what creatures live in Otter Point Creek. Use the iNaturalist app to track what is found to add to the City Nature Challenge! $10.00. 2-3 p.m. Anita C. Leight Estuary Center, Abingdon. harfordcountymd.gov.

FOUR RIVERS GARDEN CLUB 78TH

ANNUAL FLOWER MART

BASKETS FOR MAY DAY

Custom and Ready-Made May Baskets

Pre-order & Day of the Event

Small floral arrangements and posies

Make your own basket- email for information Free. 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, Annapolis. FourRiversGardenClub@facebook.com.

SPRING FLING CAR SHOW

Over 350 classic, vintage, and restored cars, trucks and hot rods will be on display along the streets of Historic Downtown Leonardtown on Sunday, April 30, 2023. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Leonardtown Square, Leonardtown. tockify.com.

EASTER BUNNY AT ARUNDEL MILLS & ANNAPOLIS MALL

Through April 8. Photos with the Easter Bunny. Check Website for times and make a Reservation here. Arundel Mills, Hanover. simon.com/ mall/arundel-mills. Westfield Annapolis Mall, Annapolis. Westfield.com

ANNUAL PEEPSHOW

March 31-April 10. A sweet fundraising event features marshmallow masterpieces, including sculptures, dioramas, mosaics and even videos, all crafted from or inspired by PEEPS®. You can view the entries for free and buy votes for your favorites, with all proceeds benefiting the Arts Council. MonSat: 10am-6:30pm, Sun: 12pm-5:30pm. Free, Carroll Arts Center, Westminster. carrollcountyarts council.org

SPRING BREAK

EGG HUNTS

April 1-9. Easter egg hunts, crafts, petting farm, rides, and play areas. Bring your own basket. Free with $8 admission. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Clark’s Elioak Farm, Ellicott City. clarklandfarm.com

FREE EASTER EGG

HUNT & FAMILY FESTIVAL

April 1. Egg hunt, face painting, pony rides, carnival games, moon bounce, and concessions. Free.

10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Bay Ridge Christian

QUICK GUIDE

Church, Annapolis. bayridgechristian church.org

EASTER EGG FESTIVAL

April 1. Easter egg hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny and Ms. Cottontail, arts, crafts, food trucks, and entertainment.

11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Price: $5 for children 12 and under participating in the egg hunt. St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds, Leonardtown. stmarysmd.com/recreate/ easter

BOWLING WITH THE

EASTER BUNNY

April 1. Come and celebrate Easter with bowling alongside the Easter Bunny! There will also be an egg hunt and other exciting activities. 3:30pm5:30pm. Lord Calvert Bowl, Prince Frederick. calvertcountymd.gov

EASTER FUN

ON THE FARM

April 1-2, 6-8. Enjoy a variety of fun activities such as an egg hunt, petting zoo, barnyard bunnies, a visit from the Easter bunny, farm trail, playground, flower planting, and more! Purchase tickets online for a 10 a.m., 12 p.m., or 2 p.m. time slot. Horsmon Farm, St. Leonard. calvertcountymd.gov

A DOGGONE FUN

EASTER EGG HUNT

April 1. Join #CCPR for a Doggone Fun Easter Egg Hunt at Cove Point Park on Saturday, April 1 from 9:30 to 10 a.m.

Bring your friendly canine companions to hunt for treat filled Easter eggs and a few with special prizes. This event is for dogs only. Dogs must be leashed at all times when not in the fenced dog park area. Please make sure your dog is social and plays nice with others. Preregistration is encouraged. Register at webtrac.co.cal. md.us/ and use activity # 430445. Cove Point Park, Lusby.

BUNNYLAND

See highlight on page 30.

EGG HUNT

EGGSTRAVAGANZA

April 7. Easter Egg hunt. games, songs, and Easter Bunny photos. Ages 8 and under. My Gym, Annapolis. mygym.com/ annapolis/events

BUNNY BONANZOO

April 7-8. Games, activities, crafts, live entertainment, and nonstop egg hunts. Plus photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny, and Zoo mascots Sphen the penguin and Rita the griraffe! Free with zoo admission. 10am-4pm. Maryland Zoo, Baltimore. marylandzoo.org

WILLOW OAK’S

EASTER EGG HUNT

April 8. Eggs will be filled with candy and prizes. $12. Reservations Required. 1:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Willow Oak Flower and Herb Farm, Severn. willowoakherbs.com