January 27 - February 3
The weather is calling for more of the same-- clouds, rain, and if we are lucky maybe a snow shower. 

Before we get started on our current events, I wanted to give you the scoop on our next installment of the Understanding Autism discussion that our family is sponsoring  Everyone is invited to attend, and limited (free) childcare is available.  This event is Saturday, and will be a great opportunity to learn more about the topic of autism.

Now on to our events...

UW Space Place
Workshop on the planet Saturn for children ages 6-10
UW Space Place - 2300 S. Park St., Suite LL-100 - 608-262-4779  [MAP]
Saturday, January 28, 10:00 AM - FREE
http://www.spaceplace.wisc.edu/
Space Place family workshops are for children ages 6-10 and their parents, and are offered the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month. The workshops are free and open to the public. No registration is required for any of the workshops.

Clifford, the Big Red Dog
Overture Hall, Overture Center, 201 State St. 608-258-4141 Cost: $19-$13
Saturday, January 28 11:00 AM
http://www.ticketmaster.com
Clifford and friends figure out how to put on their own play.  For more than forty years, Scholastic's Clifford, the Big Red Dog has charmed and amazed children with engaging adventures and big ideas. This delightful new musical brings to life the beloved characters from the prize-winning PBS animated series, based on the classic children's books by Norman Bridwell.

In this brand new story created especially for the stage, Clifford and friends figure out how to put on their own play, and the big ideas introduced in the TV series (positive traits modeled by the characters) take center stage. Clifford fans will love every minute, while seeing the value of teamwork and friendship when it comes to getting something done.

Clifford - Meet the Big Red Dog
Barnes & Noble East East Towne Mall 608-241-4695
Saturday, January 28, 10:30 a.m.
http://www.thedailypage.com/going-out/theguide/venue.php?id=1676
Special Guest: Clifford the Big Red Dog!
Kids and their families are invited to join us for a special storytime with a visit from Clifford the Big Red Dog! Parents, bring your cameras for this special event!

UW Women's Basketball
Kohl Center - 601 West Dayton
Thursday, February 2, 7:00 PM
http://www.uwbadgers.com/
A great alternative to the Men's Basketball team.  The UW Women's Basketball events are a bit more kid friendly and easier to find seats.

Kindermusik at Borders
Hands-on music program for ages 18 months & under
Borders Books West 3750 University Ave. 608-232-2600 Madison  [MAP]
Thursday, February 2, 10:00 am
Kindermusik with Miss Debbie presents a music and movement demonstration class for babies (newborn - 18 months) and their caregivers.  Borders favorite Miss Debbie gently guides babies and their caregivers through an interactive program of movement, rhythm, and music sure to entertain and stimulate.

Madison Public Libraries
See below for dates, times, and locations
http://www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/calendar/events_jan.html
Here is all of the fun stuff going on through the Madison Public Libraries for this week.

Madison Children's Museum 
100 State Street 
http://www.madisonchildrensmuseum.com
Here's the schedule of events at the Children's Museum this week.  Also note that Sunday January 8 is Free Family Sunday.  So if you do not have a museum membership come on in; it's absolutely free!

Ongoing Activites...

Kids in the Rotunda
Overture Center
Saturdays, January 21 - May 6, 11:00am and 1:00pm - FREE
http://www.overturecenter.com/rotunda.htm
Every Saturday during the school year from fall through spring, Overture Center offers free arts programs designed for children and families at 11 AM and 1 PM.  Our popular performing arts series for children and families, offers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a diverse lineup of local and regional storytellers, musicians, juggler, theater troupes, magicians and dancers. The 1 PM performances are sign language interpreted.  Kids in the Rotunda takes place on the Rotunda Stage.

Entertainment this week: The Madgadders Band  performs raucous rock and roll for the whole family.  This unique group is comprised of talented parents and children working together to present fun, feel-great music.

Muddy Moose Espresso, Cottage Grove
449 W. Cottage Grove Rd. 608-839-5900 Cottage Grove  [MAP]
http://www.muddymooseespresso.com/workshops.htm
Every Tuesday, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m., only $3 for supplies
Space is limited to 15 kids - sign up in advance to reserve your spot! $3 for supplies.

Rainbow Sky
Michael's Craft Stores - locations
Saturday, January 21th, 10:00am - Noon - $2
http://www.michaels.com/art/online/static?page=kids_events
10:00am-Noon $2

Babies' Music Class
Music by Mickey Center for Musical Arts, Verona 271 S. Main St. 608-848-2045
Wednesdays, January 18-March 22 11:15am FREE
http://www.musicbymickey.com
Music by Mickey Center for Musical Arts will be holding Babies' Music classes on Wednesday mornings beginning January 18, from 11:15 to 11:45am. Parents and babies are welcome to come participate in music, movement, and listening activities that will help stimulate development and bonding. Babies' Music classes are free, and no reservation is required. Questions may be directed to Audra at 848-2045.

On the horizon...

Vilas Zoo - Sneak a Peek - A new home for our polar bears and seals!
East Towne Mall
January 20 - February 3
http://www.vilaszoo.org/
SNEAK A PEEK !
A new home for our polar bears and seals!

Arctic Passage Model Travels to Community Locations
January 20 - February 3, East Towne Mall
On January 28th, from noon - 1:30, Live radio remote broadcast! Stop by and visit with some special Zoo guests, work on a polar bear craft project. Personnel will be on hand to answer your questions about the exciting new plans for Henry Vilas Zoo.

February 3 - February 17, West Towne Mall
On February 10, from 4:00 - 5:30p.m. , Live radio remote broadcast! Stop by and visit with some special Zoo guests, work on a polar bear craft project. Personnel will be on hand to answer your questions about the exciting new plans for Henry Vilas Zoo.

Giggle, Jiggle, Wiggle…Baby Does Disco! With DJ Nick Nice
A Family Affair for Tykes, Tots & Toddlers at Café Montmartre
Café Montmartre 127 E. Mifflin St. 608-255-5900 Madison  [MAP]
Sunday, February 5, 2:00 pm - $4 ($12 family of four)

On Sunday afternoon, February 5th Café Montmartre will open its doors to an entirely new generation of customers (and their parents) for its pint sized dance party. Neither Mickey or Barney will be present at this affair, Baby Does Disco is a Sunday afternoon of "get on down and party' music spun by Madison' s own DJ Nick Nice featuring disco tunes from the 70's & 80" along with a few tunes known only to the 5 and under set.

At its core this event is all about fun and getting folks out of the house to mingle and mix (and dance) with other parents and kids. There will be lot's of dancing, free snacks & juice for the kiddos and yes Virginia…the bar & kitchen will be open!

Home Depot Kids Workshops
Home Depot West 4550 Verona Rd
Home Depot East 2425 E Springs Dr
First Saturday of Each Month - 9:00 am - noon
http://www.homedepot.com
Kids Workshops are free "How-To Clinics" designed for children ages 5-12. The workshops are offered on the first Saturday of each month between 9:00 a.m. and noon at all The Home Depot stores. Children accompanied by an adult construct projects from pre-fabricated kits. The kits are designed to be both educational and practical using hammers, screwdrivers, and glue to create wood projects.  In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin.  

We did it recently and absolutely loved it!  (See our pictures) I did end up having to buy a couple of wood clamps to let the projects set up well, but luckily I was already at the hardware store!

Sign Up For...

Beginning Improv for Kids
Saturday, February 11, 2006 1 - 3 pm
Glenwood Moravian Community Church, 725 Gilmore St. 608-233-8709 Madison  [MAP]
Ages 8-11, set for 1-3 pm, 2/11, Glenwood Church (no experience necessary). $40.
RSVP by 2/4: www.jodi-cohen.com or 513-9737
BEGINNING IMPROV WORKSHOP - Kids, Ages 8-11
Learn basic improvisation games and scenes in a fun, supportive atmosphere. No acting/ improv experience necessary. Call 513-9737 or email to register by February 4, 2006.

January 21 - January 27
As I update the website, I see snow falling!  Enjoy it while you can-- the weather is calling for more warm and dry days this week. 

Before we get started on our current events, I wanted to give you the scoop on our next installment of the Understanding Autism discussion that our family is sponsoring  Everyone is invited to attend, and limited (free) childcare is available...

Now on to our events...

Celebrating Youth
Monona Terrace Convention Center
Sunday, January 22 11:00am-5:00pm - FREE admission!
http://www.celebratingyouth.org/event.html
Come join the Circus!-- Join us for Celebrating Youth! 2006 - "Circus of Dreams". Enter the the world of the circus at Monona Terrace Convention Center. We are partnering with Circus World Museum to create a "viritual big top" inside the exhibit hall. Explore the art and history of the circus, join the charivari (circus parade), design a costume and more!

The talents of K-12 youth will be on display in a big way! Four stages of youth performances, exhibit booths, hands-on activities for all ages, and our annual art exhibit will all be part of the excitement.

Kids and families will have the opportunity to try their hand at juggling, low-flying trapeze, stilt walking, kite flying, tumbling, break dancing and clowning in our Open Ring area. Circus World's memorabilia, historic costumes, and circus wagons will be on display. Surprises await around every corner!

This is an incredible activity for kids of all ages!  Do not miss it!

Main Dish Mondays
8312 Forsythia St 662-PLAY (7529) 
Monday, January 23, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Ages 5 and up, $39 for 1 day, Includes 2 snacks and lunch
http://www.kevasports.com/
http://www.maindishkitchen.com
Main Dish Kitchen and Keva Sports Center are teaming up to give you Main Dish Mondays. Every other Monday, Keva Sports Center will watch your kids so you can take part in Main Dish Kitchen's meal sessions.  If you are not familiar with Main Dish Kitchen, here is a blurb from their website:

Seldom have time to prepare nutritious dinners? Let us do the work! Don’t let piano lessons, soccer practice or a full day of work stop you from spending quality time around the dinner table with family and friends.

Revolutionize your dinner hour!
Make 12 freezer-friendly, family-friendly meals in two short hours. Full meals serve a four to six person family or you can split your meals to serve a two to three person family. If 12 is too many, choose to make 6 instead. To see prices, please Choose a Location and click Pricing and Promotions.

No shopping, no chopping!
Our unique kitchen design has multiple assembly stations, complete with clever cooking gadgets, fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow directions. We set up each station and take care of all the prep work; you take care of the fun.

You can choose 6 or 12 meals from the Main Dish Kitchen's Delicious menu that changes monthly.

From 11am to 1pm on Main Dish Mondays , you will have the chance to have Keva Sports Center play with your children while you prepare fresh made meals for your family.

Main Dish Monday in the first Quarter

January 23rd 11am to 1pm
February 6th 11am to 1pm
February 20th 11am to 1pm
March 6th 11am to 1pm
March 20th 11am to 1pm

Register on line at http://www.maindishkitchen.com or call 608-827-9909.

David Landau "An Afternoon at the Saloon,"
High Noon Saloon 701A E. Washington Ave. 608-268-1122
Saturday, January 21 12:00 noon - Cost: $3
http://www.high-noon.com/calendar.php
http://www.happytrails.biz/
Give your kids a day out at a rock club! David Landau (also of Cork & Bottle String Band) entertains kids and adults alike with his fun-filled musical show. From his website: "Storytelling and performing children's music are two of my passions and talents. I travel to schools, libraries, preschools (all over really) to perform musical programs that are educational, entertaining, and motivating. While music is my passion, my love is teaching. For 11 years I taught first grade in Verona, Wisconsin. My programs are an extension of my favorite part of teaching, which is helping children understand themselves and the world around them." As an added bonus, kids in cowboy boots get half price root beer!

UW Women's Basketball
Kohl Center - 601 West Dayton
Monday, January 23, 7:00 PM
http://www.uwbadgers.com/
A great alternative to the Men's Basketball team.  The UW Women's Basketball events are a bit more kid friendly and easier to find seats.

Vilas Zoo - Sneak a Peek - A new home for our polar bears and seals!
East Towne Mall
January 20 - February 3
http://www.vilaszoo.org/
SNEAK A PEEK !
A new home for our polar bears and seals!

Arctic Passage Model Travels to Community Locations
January 20 - February 3, East Towne Mall
On January 28th, from noon - 1:30, Live radio remote broadcast! Stop by and visit with some special Zoo guests, work on a polar bear craft project. Personnel will be on hand to answer your questions about the exciting new plans for Henry Vilas Zoo.

February 3 - February 17, West Towne Mall
On February 10, from 4:00 - 5:30p.m. , Live radio remote broadcast! Stop by and visit with some special Zoo guests, work on a polar bear craft project. Personnel will be on hand to answer your questions about the exciting new plans for Henry Vilas Zoo.

Madison Public Libraries
See below for dates, times, and locations
http://www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/calendar/events_jan.html
Here is all of the fun stuff going on through the Madison Public Libraries for this week.

Madison Children's Museum 
100 State Street 
http://www.madisonchildrensmuseum.com
Here's the schedule of events at the Children's Museum this week.  Also note that Sunday January 8 is Free Family Sunday.  So if you do not have a museum membership come on in; it's absolutely free!

Children of the Rainforest: Alyo African Dance and Drumming
Olbrich Botanical Gardens 3330 Atwood Ave. 608.246.4550
Saturday, January 21, 10:30am and 1:30pm
http://www.olbrich.org/
Come out of the cold and into the tropics for African dance and drumming with the Children of the Rainforest performances at Olbrich Botanical Gardens on Saturday, January 21. The Alyo African Dance and Drumming group from Chicago returns to Olbrich with high-energy dance and rhythm. Performances at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Ongoing Activites...

Kids in the Rotunda
Overture Center
Saturdays, January 21 - May 6, 11:00am and 1:00pm - FREE
http://www.overturecenter.com/rotunda.htm
Every Saturday during the school year from fall through spring, Overture Center offers free arts programs designed for children and families at 11 AM and 1 PM.  Our popular performing arts series for children and families, offers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a diverse lineup of local and regional storytellers, musicians, juggler, theater troupes, magicians and dancers. The 1 PM performances are sign language interpreted.  Kids in the Rotunda takes place on the Rotunda Stage.

Entertainment this week: Co'Motion Dance Theatre -  www.comotion.org

Muddy Moose Espresso, Cottage Grove
449 W. Cottage Grove Rd. 608-839-5900 Cottage Grove  [MAP]
http://www.muddymooseespresso.com/workshops.htm
Every Tuesday, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m., only $3 for supplies
Space is limited to 15 kids - sign up in advance to reserve your spot! $3 for supplies.

Pop-up Cards
Michael's Craft Stores - locations
Saturday, January 21th, 10:00am - Noon - $2
http://www.michaels.com/art/online/static?page=kids_events
10:00am-Noon $2

Babies' Music Class
Music by Mickey Center for Musical Arts, Verona 271 S. Main St. 608-848-2045
Wednesdays, January 18-March 22 11:15am FREE
http://www.musicbymickey.com
Music by Mickey Center for Musical Arts will be holding Babies' Music classes on Wednesday mornings beginning January 18, from 11:15 to 11:45am. Parents and babies are welcome to come participate in music, movement, and listening activities that will help stimulate development and bonding. Babies' Music classes are free, and no reservation is required. Questions may be directed to Audra at 848-2045.

On the horizon...

Clifford, the Big Red Dog
Overture Hall, Overture Center, 201 State St. 608-258-4141 Cost: $19-$13
Saturday, January 28 11:00 AM
http://www.ticketmaster.com
Clifford and friends figure out how to put on their own play.  For more than forty years, Scholastic's Clifford, the Big Red Dog has charmed and amazed children with engaging adventures and big ideas. This delightful new musical brings to life the beloved characters from the prize-winning PBS animated series, based on the classic children's books by Norman Bridwell.

In this brand new story created especially for the stage, Clifford and friends figure out how to put on their own play, and the big ideas introduced in the TV series (positive traits modeled by the characters) take center stage. Clifford fans will love every minute, while seeing the value of teamwork and friendship when it comes to getting something done.

Clifford - Meet the Big Red Dog
Barnes & Noble East East Towne Mall 608-241-4695
Saturday, January 28, 10:30 a.m.
http://www.thedailypage.com/going-out/theguide/venue.php?id=1676
Special Guest: Clifford the Big Red Dog!
Kids and their families are invited to join us for a special storytime with a visit from Clifford the Big Red Dog! Parents, bring your cameras for this special event!

January 14 - January 20
It is still looking like March or April weather outside-- and it's here for the next week!  Put the sleds away for now kids. 

Before we get started on our current events, I wanted to give you the scoop on our next installment of the Understanding Autism discussion that our family is sponsoring  Everyone is invited to attend, and limited (free) childcare is available...

Now on to our events...

Keva Sports Camp - School Closed for MLK Day
8312 Forsythia St 662-PLAY (7529) 
January 16, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Ages 5 and up, $39 for 1 day, Includes 2 snacks and lunch
http://www.kevasports.com/
Are you working on Monday and need a place for your kids?  Keva is hosting a one day sports camp.  If you have never been to Keva, imagine 2 soccer fields, 2 basketball courts, a roller hockey court, and an industrial sized jungle gym all under one roof.  It doesn't get any better than that!

Also note that youth leagues for children ages 2-6 and 7-11 are now forming.  The 8 week session starts January 23 so click on the link above to get the full scoop

Babies' Music Class
Music by Mickey Center for Musical Arts, Verona 271 S. Main St. 608-848-2045
Wednesdays, January 18-March 22 11:15am FREE
http://www.musicbymickey.com
Music by Mickey Center for Musical Arts will be holding Babies' Music classes on Wednesday mornings beginning January 18, from 11:15 to 11:45am. Parents and babies are welcome to come participate in music, movement, and listening activities that will help stimulate development and bonding. Babies' Music classes are free, and no reservation is required. Questions may be directed to Audra at 848-2045.

Magician James Grainger
Café Zoma 2326 Atwood Ave. 608-246-2009
Sunday, January 15 3:00pm FREE

American Girl Club
Barnes & Noble Booksellers East Towne Mall 608-241-4695
Saturday, January 14 10:30am East
Lovers of the American Girl Collection are invited to join the Barnes & Noble staff for fun crafts and activities. Bring a friend and join the club! (Doll friends are welcome too!)

Other Barnes & Noble East Activities this week:

January 16, 10:30am
Amy's Story Corner Storytime Toddlers (age 3 and under), Pre-school (ages 3-6)

January 17, 10:30am
Super Sarah Storytime Toddlers (age 3 and under), Pre-school (ages 3-6)

Barnes & Noble West Activities this week:

January 14, 10:30am
Super Saturday Storytime Pre-school (ages 3-6), Beginning Readers (ages 5-8)

January 17, 10:30am
Various Themes Storytime Toddlers (age 3 and under), Pre-school (ages 3-6)

Stuart Little
Capitol Theater, Overture Center 201 State Street, 255-2080
January 6-15
http://www.madisonfamilytheatre.org/
The CTM Family Theatre is proud to present Stuart Little! A mouse born into a human family, Stuart embarks on a series of adventures that test his bravery, loyalty, and resourcefulness. Whether rescuing his mother's ring from the dark cave of the bathtub drain, making ice skates from paperclips, or facing the jealousy of the Little family cat, Stuart's kind and intrepid nature shine through, showing that even the smallest stature can contain a big heart. Tickets are available through the Overture Center Ticket Office by calling (608) 258-4141.

UW Women's Basketball
Kohl Center - 601 West Dayton
Sunday, January 15, 1:30 PM
Thursday, January 19, 7:00 PM
http://www.uwbadgers.com/
A great alternative to the Men's Basketball team.  The UW Women's Basketball events are a bit more kid friendly and easier to find seats.

The 47th Annual MadFest Juggling Extravaganza
Wisconsin Union Theater 800 Langdon Madison, WI
Saturday, January 14, 7:00 PM
http://www.madjugglers.com/madfest
A Madison tradition for 47 years, come see the best juggling show in the Midwest! The Extravaganza is the big show that goes along with the annual MadFest Juggling Festival at the UW Fieldhouse all weekend.
Tickets $10 in advance, $13 day of show

Madison Public Libraries
See below for dates, times, and locations
http://www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/calendar/events_jan.html
Here is all of the fun stuff going on through the Madison Public Libraries for this week.

Madison Children's Museum 
100 State Street 
http://www.madisonchildrensmuseum.com
Here's the schedule of events at the Children's Museum this week.  Also note that Sunday January 8 is Free Family Sunday.  So if you do not have a museum membership come on in; it's absolutely free!

Children of the Rainforest: Alyo African Dance and Drumming
Olbrich Botanical Gardens 3330 Atwood Ave. 608.246.4550
Saturday, January 21, 10:30am and 1:30pm
http://www.olbrich.org/
Come out of the cold and into the tropics for African dance and drumming with the Children of the Rainforest performances at Olbrich Botanical Gardens on Saturday, January 21. The Alyo African Dance and Drumming group from Chicago returns to Olbrich with high-energy dance and rhythm. Performances at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Ongoing Activites...

Kids in the Rotunda
Overture Center
Saturdays, January 14 - May 6, 11:00am and 1:00pm - FREE
http://www.overturecenter.com/rotunda.htm
Every Saturday during the school year from fall through spring, Overture Center offers free arts programs designed for children and families at 11 AM and 1 PM.  Our popular performing arts series for children and families, offers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a diverse lineup of local and regional storytellers, musicians, juggler, theater troupes, magicians and dancers. The 1 PM performances are sign language interpreted.  Kids in the Rotunda takes place on the Rotunda Stage.

Entertainment this week: The Atwood Players present African Fables, a play based on the Anansi the Spider stories. These traditional West African tales reinforce the value of cooperation and creative thinking.

Muddy Moose Espresso, Cottage Grove
449 W. Cottage Grove Rd. 608-839-5900 Cottage Grove  [MAP]
http://www.muddymooseespresso.com/workshops.htm
Every Tuesday, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m., only $3 for supplies
Space is limited to 15 kids - sign up in advance to reserve your spot! $3 for supplies.

Foam Bonsai Tree
Michael's Craft Stores - locations
Saturday, January 14th, 10:00am - Noon - $2
http://www.michaels.com/art/online/static?page=kids_events
10:00am-Noon $2

Register Now For...

Winter-Spring Tap dance classes - TAPIT/new works 
1957 Winnebago Street - 244-3938
www.tapitnewworks.org
Winter-Spring Tap dance classes, for ages 8 - teen, begin January 18, 2006 at TAPIT/new works, 1957 Winnebago Street. Instruction is for all levels. Group and single classes available, as well as private lessons. Rehearsal and class space is available for rental. Please call 608-244-2938 to register or for more information.

January 7 - January 13
Where did the snow go?  I thought winter was here to stay, but apparently that is not the case.  The weather is going to be warm and occasionally wet with a Thursday predicted high of 50!  Who would have expected that?

Before we get started on our current events, I wanted to give you the scoop on our next installment of the Understanding Autism discussion that our family is sponsoring...

Now on to our events...

Home Depot Kids Workshops
Home Depot West 4550 Verona Rd
Home Depot East 2425 E Springs Dr
First Saturday of Each Month - 9:00 am - noon
http://www.homedepot.com
Kids Workshops are free "How-To Clinics" designed for children ages 5-12. The workshops are offered on the first Saturday of each month between 9:00 a.m. and noon at all The Home Depot stores. Children accompanied by an adult construct projects from pre-fabricated kits. The kits are designed to