|
Charter and Yahoo email
users - I am experiencing
problems with the spam settings on Charter and Yahoo email
systems. There is a chance you may not have received the
last email update or the update ended up in your spam folder.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
April 26 - May 2
The
weather -- Where did my warm weather go? Cool
weather and wind will dominate Saturday so bring a coat!
Sunday and Monday will bring temps in the 30s and 40s with
clouds and rain/snow... yes, snow. Tuesday through the end
of the week will see more sun and temps rising into the 50s.
Family Friendly Resource Question --
Piano Teachers
Here are the responses I received from you, our readers
about family friendly piano teachers. Enjoy, and keep
the good questions coming!
I was wondering if you could ask
for another resource. A friend of mine is looking for a
piano teacher to teach herself, her husband, and her son
who is 6 years old at their home. If you can put out a
request for a referral, I'd appreciate it.
Responses so far:
http://www.letsplaymusicsite.com - In response
to the piano teacher question, I'd love to tell everyone
about Let's Play Music!, my piano-introduction course. I
start students at age 4 (or 5-6) and the parents come to
the group lessons with the child every other lesson.
I've had many parents thrilled at the music theory that
THEY learned while playing along with their child (like
how to read music, transpose, find the root of a chord,
change to a minor key, etc.). To the child, the classes
are all fun and games and puppets and props, although
every activity has intense instruction tied in. I like
to start young for the ear-training component (by the
end of the year I hope they can pull a middle C out of
thin air), but I don't emphasize dexterity until later
(private lessons might be frustrating in that
regard...dexterity is the whole lesson).
The parents would want another, more-intense private
lesson to improve their own skills further, but I think
the Let's Play Music! program is the best way for a
whole family to play piano together on a level that is
fun and playful for the very young child.
In Sun Prairie: Mary Gartland.
Lessons are 30 minutes long and cost $16 a lesson. Her
phone number is 825-7149.
In Sun Prairie: Nancy Shallert:
The piano lessons are $20 for a 30-minute lesson,
located (one block from the new Northeast Y in Smiths
Crossing. 834-2538
In Sun Prairie: Lana Robotewskyj- 608-834-1321
In Sun Prairie: Prairie Music Academy
Dan
Zanes and Friends - Pajama Party!
Overture Hall, 201 State St, Madison, WI 53703 | INFO:
608.258.4177 | TICKETS: 608.258.4141
Single tickets: $10, $13, $17, $24
Friday, May 2 - 7:00pm
http://www.overturecenter.com/0708/danzanes.htm
Wear your pajamas to this multicultural, musical celebration
featuring Dan Zanes, the former lead singer and songwriter
for the alternative rock group The Del Fuegos, and his
current band. They perform exuberant music for kids and what
Zanes calls “kid sympathizers.” Grammy Award winners for
Best Musical Album for Children, Dan Zanes and Friends
occupy a unique place in American music history—a place
where sea shanties, Broadway standards, North American and
West Indian folk music, fiddle tunes, the spirit of rock and
roll and soulful originals collide. This heart-pumping,
foot-thumping show is one big music party, and everyone’s
invited!
Note: I just spent a half hour rummaging through the
basement looking for my old Del Fuego LPs. I totally
loved them back in the late 80s! Sounds like Dan has
developed as much as I have since then.
Family
Pottery Wheel
Play
in the Mud Studio, P.O. box 5231, 1714 Fritz Ave. Madison,
WI 53705
Sunday, April 27, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
http://www.playinthemudstudio.com/
There are 5 spaces left for this Sunday's Family Pottery
Wheel Workshop from 2:30-4:30. Registration is required.
Great Fun! Family Day is for children in first grade or
older (no exceptions, please) and their adult companions.
All participants will receive instruction (if needed!) on
the use of the pottery wheel and have plenty of time to
practice and play in the mud. Price includes studio time,
instruction, clay, and first firing of up to two pieces per
participant. You are welcome to return to the studio in May
to glaze your own pieces during Open Studio.
Note: This is the place I where I take my pottery
classes. Kasia is great with bringing out the creative
side of adults and kids alike. When it comes to
expressing what's inside you, this is the real deal!
All the
Garden's A Stage
Waisman Center 1500 Highland
Ave.
Sunday, April 27, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Cost: Free Call: 263-5837
http://www.waisman.wisc.edu
Crafts, Vilas Zoo animals & music by The Figureheads, 2-4 pm
Cycropia Aerial Dance's "Aerial
Ocean"
Mazomanie Movement Arts Center 2 Brodhead St. , Mazomanie
Call: 795-0014
Advance tickets cost $7.50/adult, $5/child>12.
Day-of-Show tickets: $10/adult, $7.50/child>12.
Saturday April 26, 4:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday April 27, 12:30 p.m.
http://www.mazomac.com
AERIAL OCEAN: A fanciful journey to the bottom of the deep
blue sea, featuring the Mazo Flyers (Mazomanie's own aerial
performance troupe). Join us as we turn the Movement Arts
Center into a giant aquarium; watch us float amidst aerial
silks and trapezes, conjuring beaches, bright coral reefs,
translucent jellyfish and mysterious depths.
SEATING IS LIMITED!
For advance tickets contact Marcia Miquelon at 795-0014 or
visit
www.mazoMAC.com
MadCAP Theatre's "Alexander &
the Terrible, Horrible, no Good, Very Bad Day"
Bartell Theatre 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison
Tickets: $8 children, $10 adults 251-1879 for ticket
reservations
May 1, 2, 6, and 7 at 9:30 am
May 3 at 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm
May 10 at 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm.
http://www.madcap.org
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, no Good, Very Bad Day
is based on the ALA Notable Children's Book written by
Judith Viorst and illustrated by Ray Cruz. The Story is
centered on a 6 year old boy who has one of the days people
typically like to forget about. From gum in his hair, to no
dessert at lunch, to his ill-fated dentist appointment,
things just keep getting worse for Alexander. During the
day, he daydreams about things actually going right and
moving to Australia, where he believes people don't have
these kinds of days. At the end of the long day, Alexander
learns about resiliency keeping your chin up, and looking
forward to tomorrow.
MadCAP caters to southern Wisconsin's youngest theatre-goers
by bringing high quality, well known children's productions
to the stage. MadCAP artists believe it is important for
community development to encourage young people to become
active in the arts and other community activities. MadCAP's
2007-2008 Theatre for Young Audiences season was a great
success with over 2200 children and adults attending
performances, and MadCAP is thrilled to launch their 2nd
season.
All of MadCAP's performances will be held at the Bartell
Theatre located at 113 East Mifflin Street. This intimate
space is wonderful for introducing young people and families
to musical theatre; the sight lines are good and acoustics
are such that the entire audience can enjoy the performance
without artificial amplification. Talk backs and greetings
in the lobby are held after every performance. For more
information about MadCAP, please visit the website at
www.madcap.org or call (608) 251-1879.
Family
Horticulture Day
UW
West Madison Agricultural Research Station, 8502 Mineral
Point Rd.
Cost: Free - Call: 262-2257
Saturday, April 26, 10:00am - 2:00pm
http://www.cals.wisc.edu/westmad
Fourth Annual Family Horticulture Day April 26, 2008 at the
University of Wisconsin West Madison Agricultural Research
Station
Tour
the Demonstration Gardens
-
Partake in transplanting tomato and pepper seedlings and
3 kinds of herbs; learn to sow pumpkin and sunflower
seeds----and take them home to plant in your garden
-
Learn about all the creeping, crawling and walking
creatures that may just be lurking in your garden
-
Check out purple carrots, red popcorn, and giant green
caterpillars
-
Learn how to collect your own soil sample and how to
have it analyzed. Learn about soil pH and how to adjust
for acid loving plants
-
Bring your gardening questions to the Master Gardeners
and F. H. King, Student Research Interns
-
Experiment with Plant Science at hands-on Exploration
Stations
-
Check out the DNA of the famous Wisconsin Whooping
Cranes and find out how our native quail reproduce and
nest right in your back yard
-
Enjoy free ice cream
-
Entry and parking are free
Horticulture will truly be a Technicolor experience at
Family Horticulture Day. Purple, red, and yellow potatoes,
red popcorn and giant green caterpillars will be the
features of the day. A variety of indoor and outdoor
exhibits, staffed by Dane County Master Gardeners, F.H.
King, Research Interns, and Dane County 4-H youth and adult
volunteers, and the staff of the UW-West Madison
Agricultural Research Station, will give visitors hands-on
experience with horticultural science.
Still interested in more amazing science projects? Check out
the Wisconsin Wildlife exhibit and see what flies, crawls
and burrows in your garden. Visitors will also be offered a
chance to extract DNA from wheat germ, manipulate a
micropipette to move a millionth of a liter of water, and
use hydrogen peroxide to investigate the Foam Factor in
seeds.
At the outdoor exploration stations, horticultural
adventurers can learn about developing a rain garden, learn
how to use herbs for cooking and take a few home for the
garden or patio, and get ideas and advice from master
gardeners. Visitors will also learn how to transplant tomato
and pepper seedlings and successfully sow vegetable and
flower seeds - and they can take the seedlings home for
their own gardens.
The F.H. King Soils Club - university students will offer
information on how to manage the soil in your garden to grow
the best plants ever! There will be time for Q and A on how
to collect soil and plant samples for analyzing lawn and
garden soil fertility.
Family Horticulture Day is the finale of Science Expeditions
2008, a month-long series of public science events at the
UW-Madison. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturday, April 26. The West Madison Agricultural Research
station is located at 8502 Mineral Point Road, about a mile
west of the beltline.
Celebrate
Madison
MATC
Downtown Education Center 211 N. Carroll St.
Cost: Free - Call: 266-4611
Saturday April 26, 11:00am - 6:00pm
http://www.cityofmadison.com
Cultural Performances
11:00 AM Opening
11:15 AM Sonido Suave
12:05 PM Zaibas Lithuanian Dancers
12:40 PM Brisas del Peru
1:15 PM Meenakshi Ganesan and the Kalaanjali Dance Co.
2:00 PM Yid Vicious
2:50 PM Sadira and the Riad Dance Co.
3:40 PM Larkin
4:50 PM Atimevu Drum and Dance Ensemble
Children's Cultural Crafts
Noon Cultural Craft Area Opens
- Face Painting and Balloon Art
- Corn Husk Dolls and Jewelry Making
- Paper Cutting Art
- Puppet Show
- Poem and Card Making
5:00 pm Cultural Craft Area Closes
Madison
Country Day School's "Seussical Jr."
Madison Country Day School 5606 River Rd. Call: 850-6375
$6 ($3 students; also, kids activities 2:15 pm, 5/3).
850-6375
Friday, May 2nd at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday May 3rd at 3:00
and 7:00 p.m.
http://madisoncountryday.org
The Middle and High School students at Madison Country Day
School are proud to present their spring musical, Seussical
Jr., on May 2nd at 7:00 p.m. and May 3rd at 3:00 and 7:00
p.m. This musical is based on the story of Horton the
Elephant and a number of other Dr. Seuss books, and includes
characters such as the Cat in the Hat, Whos, Wickersham
Brothers, Sour Kangaroo, and a number of Seuss-bird
characters! Come early to the Saturday afternoon performance
and enjoy listening to a Dr. Seuss reading with Yurtle the
Turtle and face painting, starting at 2:15 p.m. Tickets are
$6 for adults and $3 for students. Kids 3 and under are
free.
Young
Shakespeare Players' "The Tempest"
Young Shakespeare Players Playhouse, 1806 West Lawn Ave.
Cost: Free- Call: 258-0015
Friday, April 25 and Saturday, 26 at 6:00 pm
May 2, 3, 4, 9, and 10 at 6:00pm; May 11 at 1:00pm
http://www.ysp.org
Performances are FREE at the Young Shakespeare Players'
Playhouse at 1806 West Lawn Ave. in Madison (near Spooner
and Monroe Sts.)
For the tenth consecutive year, YSP produces a unique
Winter-Spring program full-length Shakespeare play with a
rehearsal schedule especially designed for home-schooled
Players. YSP once again produces the magical, beautiful
story of Prospero, Ariel, Caliban, Miranda, Ferdinand, and
the "Men of Sin" who wrongly took over Milan. The Tempest
(considered Shakespeare's farewell to the stage) is about
redemption and forgiveness reminding us that "We are such
stuff as dreams are made on."
Angelina
Ballerina Party
Monona Academy of Dance, 6332 Monona Drive
$10 - Call 221-4535 to reserve your spot!
Sunday April 27 2:00pm - 4:00pm
http://www.thedailypage.com/theguide/details.php?event=200307
Photo with Angelina Ballerina's Friends
Learn a Dance
Games
Magic Show
Refreshments
O'Keeffe
Middle School Drama Club's "Anne of Green Gables"
Madison Metropolitan School District's Doyle Administration
Building 545 W. Dayton St.
$1 for kids; $3 for adults; Call: 256-6282
Friday, April 25, 7:00pm
Sunday, April 27, 4:00pm
Sun Prairie
Evening Sign Say & Play
Tuesday, April 29 To Tuesday, June 03 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Tuesday of each week
Ages birth - 3 years with caregiver
$120/family ($60 of the fee is for the materials kit which
includes a DVD, 2 board books, CD and songbook, quick
reference guide, AND a backpack)
608-831-2068 Email:
trybabysigns@gmail.com
http://www.babysigns.com
Talk with your child before they can talk! Join us for 6
weeks of fun, interactive play, songs, signs and stories.
Each week, we will explore a new theme learning many new
signs and building cognitive, social language, literacy and
sensory-motor development while parents gain education to
help with signing at home. Instructor: Tamara Smith
*Please note: This class has a unique registration process.
Please contact us for registration information.
Madison
Mocha Moms Open House
Saturday, May 3,
11:00am-2:00pm
The Capitol Building, Parlor 201SE
Door Prizes & Refreshments
For more information, send e-mail to
madisonmochas@sbcglobal.net or call (608) 338-5368
http://www.mochamoms.org/
Join the Mocha Moms of Madison for bi-weekly group
discussions (every 2nd and 4th Friday), family fun, and
more. For more information and to RSVP for location, send
e-mail to madisonmochas@sbcglobal.net or call (608) 338-5368
Mocha Moms, Inc. is a support group for mothers of color who
have chosen not to work full-time outside of the home in
order to devote more time to their families.. Mocha Moms
serves as an advocate for those mothers and encourages the
spirit of community activism within its membership. Mocha
Moms, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race,
ethnicity, sex, gender, socio-economic level, education, or
religion. Anyone who supports the mission and purpose of
Mocha Moms, Inc. is welcome to join.
For more information on Mocha Moms, Inc. visit:
http://www.mochamoms.org/
Festival of the Young
Child
Brittingham Park Shelter 617 North Shore Dr.
Cost: Free - Call: 963-0411
Hosted By: Jumpstart Madison
Saturday, April 26, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
http://jumpstart.rso.wisc.edu
Jumpstart of Madison free event with activities, crafts &
entertainment for preschoolers & their families. Be
ready for activities, crafts, and other entertainment
including science presentations.
The Week of the Young Child is an annual
celebration sponsored by the National Association for the
Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The purpose of
the Week of the Young Child is to focus public attention on
the needs of young children and their families and to
recognize the early childhood programs and services that
meet those needs.
Flustered Mustard Party
Aldo Leopold Nature Center 300 Femrite Dr.
Cost: Free - Call: 221-4038
Saturday, April 26, 1 - 3 pm
http://www.naturenet.com/alnc
Free family festival with activity stations, hiking,
crafts, garlic mustard pesto samples, 1-3 pm, 4/26, Aldo
Leopold Nature Center. Also: "Unwanted Flowering Objects"
invasive species pulling party, RSVP by 4/24: 221-4038
Flustered Mustard Festival and UFO Pulling
Party
Search and destroy UFOs (Unwanted Flowering Objects) in the
forest during this fun-filled festival event! Families and
youth groups can sign up for the UFO Pulling Party Contest,
where teams compete for prizes based on who can pull and bag
the most invasive plant species. Never seen a UFO before?
We'll teach you how to spot these alien invaders of the
forest. For those without a competitive streak, visit
activity stations at your own pace, to "tug-an-olive," go on
a guided hike, make a craft to take home or sample garlic
mustard "pesto." In honor of Earth Day, join us to lend a
hand to the forests of Wisconsin.
Location: Aldo Leopold Nature Center's Black Earth campus
RSVP for Herbs for Kids
Olbrich Gardens 3330 Atwood Ave.
Thursday, May 1, 6:30-8:30 pm
Registration Deadline: April 24
$11 member/$13 public Call: 246-4550
http://www.olbrich.org
Join Carole Blemker of Madison's Community Pharmacy, and
explore herbs for children's health. Learn about immune
support herbs to help kids stay healthy, as well as gentle
herbs to remedy common childhood ailments. Blemker will
address appropriate herbal doses for small bodies, plus how
to prepare tasty herbal preparations kids will enjoy taking!
O'Keeffe
Middle School Drama Club's "Anne of Green Gables"
Madison Metropolitan
School District's Doyle Administration Building 545 W.
Dayton St.
Friday, April 25, 7pm
Sunday, April 27, 4pm
Cost $3 ($1 kids). 256-6282
http://www.thedailypage.com/theguide/details.php?event=199925
UW Space
Place
UW Space Place 2300
S. Park St., Suite LL-100, Madison 262-4779
Free workshop for elementary/middle school students
http://spaceplace.wisc.edu Email:
kay@sal.wisc.edu
Saturday Family Workshops
Saturday workshops begin at 10:00 am and are designed for
children ages 6-10 and their families.
April 26 • "Solar System Bracelet"
Build a model solar system showing how much space is
between the Sun and nine planets.
May 3 • "Spinning Physics"
Join Rachael Lancor from the Wonders of Physics for
hands-on experiments.
May 10 • "Iron for Breakfast"
Experiment with magnets and how to find iron in unlikely
places.
Join UW-Madison College of Agricultural
and Life Sciences for the 4th Annual Family Horticulture Day
on Saturday, April 26 from 10:00 to 2:00. The event will
be held at the West Madison Agricultural Research Station in
Verona and features hands-on projects and activities for
gardeners of all ages.
12th ANNUAL "DEPOT
DAYS in BROOKLYN" WISCONSIN
Saturday April 26, 10:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday, April 27, 10:00am - 4:00pm
with speeder car rides ($6), parade (1 pm, 4/27) Call:
455-1503
http://www.depotdays.info
Join railroad enthusiasts from throughout the Midwest at
"Depot Days in Brooklyn" Wisconsin on April 26 10 am-5 pm
and 27 10 am-4 pm, 2008. With speeder car rides, model
railroad enthusiasts sharing their hobby, Silver Dollar
amusement rides, railroading and local art, nature adventure
and plenty of food, Depot Days is engineered for family fun!
We have also scheduled a special "Speeder Car" ride for a
developmentally disabled group after regular rides on
Saturday. A short program and ride will introduce them to a
unique experience on the rails. We will accommodate any
group outside regular festival rides and are handicap
accessible.
Highlights of the Depot Days in Green County weekend
include:
-
Speeder car rides in Brooklyn - ride a
former railroad maintenance vehicle on the train tracks.
Unlike train cars pulled by an engine, speeder cars
travel independently and are powered by gasoline
engines. Tickets for a ride on a C&NW track are on sale
in the downtown at the tracks during the festival. Rides
leave on the hour. $6 adults and $3 children under 12,
advance tickets can be purchased during the festival at
the site.
-
Commemorative "Depot Days in Brooklyn"
collectors' button featuring a local teen's artwork for
$2. Purchase a raffle ticket to win a 125 piece Lionel
City Center Wooden Train Set for $5 and receive the
button. On sale at the community building's main site
and at speeder car rides downtown at the railroad
tracks.
-
Silver Dollar Shows amusement rides in
downtown includes inflatable rides and games.
-
Pick up your "Nature Passport" at the
community building downtown, which includes a migratory
and non-migratory checklist and maps of three local
wildlife-viewing areas and a wildlife checklist.
-
Brooklyn's Depot Days Parade - Sunday at
1 p.m. on Hwy 92 from Kerch St. to 1st St, units
introduced downtown.
-
Free admission for model trains that
will fill the local community center; Rusty Rails from
Waukesha, Sandhouse Crew from Fitchburg and Lethby
family from Monroe. A wooden train set on table in the
children's play area.
-
Treasures can be found at the village
wide garage sales on Saturday, throughout the community.
-
Support the local non-profit
organizations by enjoying all their food. Methodist
Church bake sale/concessions in the community building
and the Fire/EMS pancake breakfast Sunday from 8-11am at
the fire station at the west edge of the village on Hwy
92.
-
Learn more about Brooklyn's history with
a historical display in the community building.
Call (608) 455-1503 or email
info@DepotDays.info to request a brochure listing the
complete schedule of events. For more information visit
www.depotdays.info to view artists work or download a
brochure.
Madison Children's Museum
100 State Street
http://www.madisonchildrensmuseum.com
Special Event: Kajsiab House Hmong Folk Fair
Volunteers from Kajsiab House share traditional Hmong music,
tools, clothing & crafts.
April 27, 2008 — 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Demonstration: Meet the Musician - Harp
Karen Beth Atz visits from the Madison Symphony Orchestra to
demonstrate the harp.
April 26, 2008 — 11:00 am to 11:30 am
Drop-In Program: Art Dabblers
Visit the art room each week for informal art projects
recommended for ages 2-5. Programs take place every Tuesday
and Wednesday, 10:30-11 a.m.
April 29 & 30 May Baskets
May 6 & 7 Flower Pots
April 29, 2008 — 10:30 am to 11:00 am
April 30, 2008 — 10:30 am to 11:00 am
Class: Toddler Music
Kjerstie Johanson’s popular class features songs, rhythm and
music-making activities recommended for ages 1-4. $1/child
program fee. No registration necessary.
Toddler Music programs take place Thursdays at 9:30 and 10
a.m. and Fridays at 10 a.m.
April 25, 2008 — 10:00 am to 10:30 am
May 1, 2008 — 9:30 am to 10:00 am
10:00 am to 10:30 am
May 2, 2008 — 10:00 am to 10:30 am
Class: Tots in Motion
Join Kathleen Madden in the First Feats gallery for games
and other physical activities to strengthen gross motor
skills. Program takes place every Tuesday, 9:30-10 a.m.
April 29, 2008 — 9:30 am to 10:00 am
May 6, 2008 — 9:30 am to 10:00 am
Drop-In Program: Toddler Time
Visit the First Feats exhibit gallery for informal
activities for children ages 18 months-3 years. Program
takes place every Monday, 9:30-10 a.m.
April 28, 2008 — 9:30 am to 10:00 am
Barnes & Noble Activities
#1 East Towne Mall Madison, WI 53704 241-4695
West Towne Mall 7433 Mineral Point Road Madison, WI 53717
827-0809
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/find_an_event.do
Madison
Public Libraries
See below for dates, times, and locations
http://www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/calendar/calendar.html
Here is all of the fun stuff going on through the Madison Public
Libraries for this week. Click on the colored titles to register
online.
Coming Soon...
RSVP for Spring in the Forest: Family Garlic
Mustard Pull and Pesto Making!
Troy Gardens, 500 Troy Drive
Saturday, May 3, 10-11 a.m.
http://www.troygardens.org
Meet at the brown tent near the Kids' Garden
(Troy Gardens is located on the 500 block of
Troy Drive, on Madison's Northside)
Cost: $3 suggested donation per child. The
program is limited to 50 participants, and
children must be accompanied by an adult.
Your donation helps support a wide variety
of educational programs at Troy Gardens.
Contact: To register for this program,
please contact Hannah Lavold at 240-0409 or
info@troygardens.org. Please register by
Thursday, May 1.
Web: www.troygardens.org
Please join us at Troy Gardens for a Family
Education Program! Watch for birds,
wildflowers, and many other signs of spring
as we work and play together in our sugar
maple woodland. Learn about natural areas
restoration and help pull garlic mustard to
be made into delicious pesto for snacking!
Additional activities include nature games
and crafts.
Mocha
Moms of Madison Bi-Weekly Group Meetings
http://www.mochamoms.org/
Join
the Mocha Moms of Madison for bi-weekly group discussions
(every 2nd and 4th Friday), family fun, and more. For more
information and to RSVP for location, send e-mail to
madisonmochas@sbcglobal.net or call (608) 338-5368
Mocha Moms, Inc. is a support group for mothers of color who
have chosen not to work full-time outside of the home in
order to devote more time to their families.. Mocha Moms
serves as an advocate for those mothers and encourages the
spirit of community activism within its membership. Mocha
Moms, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race,
ethnicity, sex, gender, socio-economic level, education, or
religion. Anyone who supports the mission and purpose of
Mocha Moms, Inc. is welcome to join.
For more information on Mocha Moms, Inc. visit:
http://www.mochamoms.org/
Dane County
Farmers' Market
Capitol Square Call: 455-1999
Saturdays, 6:00am - 2:00pm
http://www.dcfm.org
The award-winning Dane County Farmers' Market (DCFM), a
Madison tradition since 1972, opens its outdoor season on
Saturday, April 19 from 6 am to 2 pm. The beautiful Capitol
Square is a unique setting for the largest producer-only
market in the nation. And, all of the products are produced
right here in Wisconsin!
Enjoy fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, cheese, meat, poultry,
fish, honey, maple syrup, nuts, jelly, eggs, candy, baked
goods, plants, fresh flowers, and more ...
The DCFM outdoor markets are open every Saturday and every
Wednesday through early November - RAIN OR SHINE!
University Theatre's
"Dragonwings"
Hemsley Theatre, UW Vilas Hall 821 University Ave.
March 29-April 12: March 29, April 5 and 12 at 7:30 pm and
March 30 and April 6 at 2 pm.
Recommended age is 8 and up. $14. Call: 262-1500
http://www.utmadison.com
UW Madison University Theatre's annual Theatre for Youth
production will highlight the challenges faced by Chinese
American youngsters in the early 20th century when it brings
Laurence Yep's DRAGONWINGS to the Hemsley Theatre for public
and school performances, beginning March 11 and playing
through April 12, 2008.
Adapted from book by the same title, DRAGONWINGS tells the
story of a Chinese boy, Moon Shadow, who journeys to America
in 1928 to join his father who has dreams of building an
airplane like the Wright brothers have. As Moon Shadow helps
his father construct their airplane, he not only explores
the strange land that is America but the relationship to the
stranger who is his father.
DRAGONWINGS was written by Laurence Yep, a prolific
award-winning Chinese American children's author. Born in
San Francisco in 1948, Yep often uses his books to express
the frustration and struggles he endured as he grew up,
feeling torn between both American and Chinese cultures. He
received the Newbery Honor for "Dragon's Gate" and
"Dragonwings" which he adapted into a play in 1991 for the
Berkeley Repertory Theatre's school touring program. Mr. Yep
was awarded the Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal in 2005 for his
contributions to children's literature.
School performances for area elementary and middle school
children will be held on March 31, April 2, 4, 7, 9 and 11
at 10 am. Public performances are March 29, April 5 and 12
at 7:30 pm and March 30 and April 6 at 2 pm. Recommended age
is 8 and up. Individual tickets cost $14 for the general
public or $12 for UW students, Senior Citizens and children.
Purchase tickets for public performances at the Vilas Hall
Box Office, 821 University Ave., (608 ) 262-1500, the
Wisconsin Union Box Office, 800 Langdon St., (608)262-2201,
or order on-line. Buy tickets and view the complete season
calendar at
www.utmadison.com.
PlayTime
Productions' "The Princess & the Pea"
Cost: Donations encouraged Call: 437-4217
http://www.playtimeproductions.org
Job applicants abound for the position of princess at the
castle of Henrietta and Hubert in the PlayTime Productions
spring rendition of The Princess and the Pea.
Since Prince Lambert has finally decided it is time for him
to get married, his mother, Queen Henrietta, has devised a
test for each and every princess who applies for the
position to marry her favored son. Come see if you could
pass this royalty test, as the touring children's troupe,
PlayTime Productions brings this classic Hans Christian
Andersen tale to life on stage.
Over 3,000 people will see the play during the 5-week tour
(April 5-May 3) throughout the Dane County area.
PlayTime is throwing a pajama party for its spring gala
fundraiser on Friday, April 11 starting at 5:30 pm at the
Monona Grove HIgh School. Since we all know the real
princess won't sleep all night anyway, we'll join her and
have slumber party fun. There will be pizza, popcorn, pop,
games, a special name-that-teddy bear guessing game, and
even a nail polishing station. PJs are not required, but
those wearing them will be eligible for a raffle prize
drawing, adults too. Join us for family fun at 5:30 before
the performance at 7:00. A suggested donation of $5. per
person or $20. per family will be taken at the door.
Performance Schedule Spring 2008
Warner Park Community Recreation Center--$1. suggested
donation
Friday, April 25 at 7:00
Stoughton Opera House--$5. per family
Saturday, April 26 at 7:00
Barrymore Theatre--$2.50 suggested donation
Sunday, April 27 at 6:00
Mt. Horeb PTO at the High School--$2.50 suggested
donation
Tuesday, April 29 at 7:00
McFarland PTO at the High School--$2. suggested donation
Friday, May 2 at 7:00
Sauk City Library at the River Arts Auditorium--free
Saturday, May 3 at 1:00
(Suggested donations at most performance locations $2.50
or less.)
Bean
Sprouts Kid's Cafe
6719 Frank Lloyd Wright
Avenue, Suite 101 Middleton, WI 53562, 1.608.826.6YUM (6986)
http://www.beansproutscafe.com
Bean Sprouts is a new
kids' café featuring:
-
yummy, good-for-you food
-
a hip, fun atmosphere for kids and
parents
-
organic baby food and delivery service
-
birthdays and tea parties!
Editor's note: Here
is a brilliant concept... a healthy, wholesome, kid-oriented
cafe with a fun atmosphere and events for parents and tots
to share together! This place is totally geared
towards tots with kid-sized doors, special kids seating
area, and even kid sized toilets in the bathroom. They
are also the only place in town where you can find freshly
made organic baby food that can be delivered to your
doorstep.
Kids in the Rotunda
Rotunda Stage, Overture Center 201 State St.
Cost: Free Call: 258-4141
Saturdays, 9:30am & 11 am and 1 pm (late show
sign-interpreted)
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 9:30 AM, 11 AM and 1 PM. Our
popular performing arts series for children and families
offers a relaxed, kid-friendly 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.
|
April |
|
|
26 |
The Handphibians,
Brazilian rhythms and songs
|
|
May |
|
|
3 |
The Atwood Players,
theater
|
|
10 |
Cash Box Kings,
40s & 50s blues music
|
Events at Rhapsody Arts Center
Rhapsody Arts Center 271 S. Main Street Verona, WI 53593
Phone: (608)-848-2045
http://www.rhapsodyarts.org
Please call Rhapsody Arts Center at 608-848-2045 for more
information and class rates. Also, you can visit our
website, www.rhapsodyarts.org.
Adoptive
Familes Playgroup
Forming in Fitchburg
area. Info: Our_Families@sbcglobal.net or 276-8939
Email: Our_Families@sbcglobal.net
ADOPTIVE FAMILIES PLAYGROUP: Fitchburg family forming
playgroup for adoptive families with young children.
Wednesdays, 10:00-12:00 for starters - times & frequency
open. Please contact Clarinda at Our_Families@sbcglobal.net
or 608.276.8939.
Madtown Twisters Open Gym
West: 7035 Old Sauk Road (Corner of Old Sauk & Gammon)
608-829-2922
East: 808 Walsh Road 608-245-9565
http://www.madtowntwisters.com/opengym.html
Every week Madtown Twisters East and West
locations both host open gym times for kids of different
ages. The prices are incredibly reasonable, and the
kids get to run, jump, and have lots of high energy fun!
-
Tots Open Gym is for children ages 6
and under only. 1 supervising adult is required per
2 children.
-
Family Open Gym is for all age
children with parents. 1 supervising adult is
required per 2 children regardless of age.
-
Mixed Open Gym is for all age
children. Ages 6 and under must have 1 supervising
adult per 2 children. Ages 7 and up may be dropped off.
-
Ultimate Open Gym is for children
ages 7 and up only. Parents are welcome to stay but
not required.
West Fall Open Gym Schedule
Monday, Wednesday, Friday Tots Open Gym* 11 - 12:45
Tuesday, Thursday Tots Open Gym* 11 - 12:30
Fridays Ultimate Open Gym 7 - 10pm
Saturdays Tots Open Gym 3 - 4:45, Mixed Open Gym 5 - 6:45,
Ultimate Open Gym 7 - 10pm
Sundays Family Open Gym 11-12:45
East Fall Open Gym Schedule
Monday - Friday Tots Open Gym* 11 - 12:45
Fridays Ultimate Open Gym 7 - 10pm
Saturdays Tots Open Gym 3 - 4:45, Mixed Open Gym 5 - 6:45
Sundays Family Open Gym 11-12:45
* Tots Open Gym becomes Family Open Gym when schools are
out.
Open Gym Prices:
Ages 2 and under ... $5
Ages 3 and up ........ $8
Ultimate Open Gym (7 & older only) .... $10
Toddler Time - A Parent/Child Playgroup
Tenney Nursery and
Parent Center 1321 East Mifflin Street Madison, WI 53703
(608)255-3250
Meets every Friday from 9:00-11:301:30
http://www.tnpckids.com
A teacher-directed class for parents (or adult) and
child(ren) to explore age appropriate materials in a
traditional classroom setting. Group time is held in the
classroom about half way through Toddler Time. Children and
adults participate by singing songs, dancing to music and
listening to stories. After group, families may continue
playing in the classroom, go to the multipurpose room for
large motor activities or go out to the playground. Families
are welcome to bring individual snacks. Snack tables are
located in the multipurpose room.
The cost is $5.00 for each drop-in visit. Enrolled families
pay a discounted price each semester and have a reserved
spot each Friday.
Stay,
Play, Learn All-Together (SPLAT)
Covenant Presbyterian Church and Living Water Church, Sun
Prairie
You must pre-register at 608.241.5150.
Tuesdays 9:30-11am. Free, open play group giving parents and
children the opportunity to interact and play with other
children, and parents. 2 locations!!
Baby Signs
Tamara Smith Independent Certified Instructor
Middleton, WI 53562 608-831-2068 Email:
trybabysigns@gmail.com
http://www.babysigns.com
Ever Wonder
What Your Baby is Thinking? Or Why Your Baby is Crying?
Using the BABY SIGNS® Program gives babies a way to “talk”
with their parents before they can talk. Babies can
communicate about the world around them long before they
have mastered their verbal speaking skills! Babies and
their parents can use simple signs to communicate important
things – like being hungry or thirsty, hot or cold, afraid
or sad – often a full year before babies could otherwise
speak.
Eager Free Public Library
Pre-School Storytime
39 W. Main Street, Evansville
Pre-school storytimes every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m.
Pre-school crafts every Friday at 10:00 a.m.
Fitchburg
Library Story Time
Fitchburg Community Center
Thursday mornings at 10:00 am starting September 6
Fitchburg Library Story
Time... Hmmm... I didn't know Fitchburg had a library...
Well, they don't... however... for the last 2 1/2 years, parent
volunteers from the Fitchburg area, with the support of the
Friends of the Fitchburg Library, have been offering a free
story time at the Fitchburg Community Center on Thursday
mornings at 10:00 a.m. They do this weekly during the school
year, and then offer a six-week summer session the McKee Farms
Park Shelter. Their fall session is about to start up again at
the Fitchburg Community Center on Thursday, Sept. 6th. Each week
children 5 and under and their caregivers hear stories, sing
songs with fingerplays and create a craft. Their goal is to
build a community of readers by getting children hooked on books
and demonstrating one way that a library in our city would be a
benefit to the community.
Babies' Music
Rhapsody Arts Center, 271 S. Main St., Verona (608)848-2045
http://www.rhapsodyarts.org
Music class for ages 0-18 months. Sponsored by The Purple Goose
of Verona, this class is for caregiver and baby. Strengthen the
bond with your baby while encouraging the discovery of sounds,
movements and textures. Your child's overall development will
soar through enjoyable musical stimulation , and you will enjoy
sharing experiences with other new parents.
At-Home Dads
Happy Bambino 2045
Atwood Ave. 204-6147 [MAP]
Every Thursday, 9:30-10:45 am
http://www.HappyBambino.com
Come join a community of dads who have made the choice to stay
at home with their child/children. The discussion will be led by
the group, but topics may range from fatherhood and the novelty
of being a stay-at-home-dad to topics completely unrelated to
being a parent, like sports, music, and movies. Snacks and
drinks available for purchase or BYO.
New Mom's Group
Madison Birth Center 6720 Frank Lloyd Wright Ave., Suite
103Middleton 821-0123 [MAP]
Free drop-in group for mothers, babies & pregnant women
11 am-12:30 pm Thursdays
jody@madisonbirthcenter.com
Led by Jen Perfetti, MA, LPC and the Madison Birth Center
midwives, this drop-in group is for mothers, babies and pregnant
women. Each week a topic is discussed along with open
discussion. Breastfeeding support is always available. You need
not have given birth at the Madison Birth Center to attend.
When: Thursday mornings from 11 AM-12:30 PM Cost: No
charge
Storytimes Ages 2-5
University Book Store-Hilldale 702 N. Midvale Blvd. (in the
Hilldale Mall) 238-8455 Madison [MAP]
Thursdays at 9:30am
Led by UW Library Students – Frances Veit & Betsy Wermuth
Weekly Crafts at Michaels Craft Store
Michael's Craft Stores -
locations
Every Saturday, 10:00am - Noon - $2
http://www.michaels.com/art/online/static?page=kids_events
10:00am-Noon $2
Tuesdays at the
Castle - Avol's Bookstore
315 W. Gorham St. 255-4730 [MAP]
ages 3-6, 11 am Tuesdays. 255-4730
Trudy Barash reads stories for children ages 3-6 years at Avol's
Bookstore, (formerly Canterbury Booksellers).
Dan, Dan, the Story Man
Borders Books East 2173
Zeier Rd., Madison 240-0080
10:30 am Wednesdays
Call: 240-0080
Dan, Dan, the Story Man: stories, music and activities,
Wednesdays at 10:30am
Drop-In Playtime
Family Enhancement 2120 Fordem Ave., Suite
210 (new location)
Weekly on Mondays and Fridays @ 9:00am Call: 241-5150 ext. 15
http://www.familyenhancement.org
Ages 9 months-4 years, 9 am-noon Mondays & Fridays, Family
Enhancement. 241-5150 ext. 15
Preschool Crafts
Eager Free Library, Evansville 39 W. Main St. 608-882-2260
Tuesdays, 8:00am
This is a great way
to ensure that your child is getting some great experiences with
eye-hand coordination. Registration is not necessary for these
craft programs. Year Around Preschool Craft Time every
Tuesday at 10 a.m.
Muddy Moose Espresso
449 W. Cottage Grove Rd in Cottage Grove (in the Piggly Wiggly
Mall, next to the Post Office) 839-5900
YOU ARE INVITED to have fun, get creative, learn something new,
and widen your horizons!
MONDAY
AP PRESCHOOL PLAYGROUP ~ 2nd Monday each month, 9:30 –
11:00. An Attachment Parenting playgroup for 28 mos +.
Contact: kristenok18@yahoo.com.
TUESDAY
STORY TIME~ Every Tuesday 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. Fun stories
for toddlers and preschoolers ages 2+.
THURSDAY
STORY TIME ~ Thursday 9:30 a.m. Fun stories for toddlers
and preschoolers (ages 2+).
MUSIC BABIES ~ Bouncing, rhyming, singing for babies
~ 10:30 – 11:00 in the meeting room.
Charter and Yahoo email users -
I am experiencing problems with the spam
settings on Charter and Yahoo email systems. There is a
chance you may not have received the last email update or the
update ended up in your spam folder. Sorry for the
inconvenience.
April 19 - April 25
The weather--
Rain for the first half of the weekend followed by picture
perfect weather on Sunday and Monday. Get out an enjoy!
Highs in the 70's for the first part of the week, then dropping
into the 50's and 60's from Wednesday through Friday with on and
off chances for rain.
Another Family Friendly Resource Question --
Piano Teachers
I have received a bit of feedback so far from
this question. I'm going to leave it open for one more
week-- Please email me at
selwyn@selwyn.org if
you have any recommendations on piano teachers. Here's the
question from one of our readers:
I was wondering if you could ask for
another resource. A friend of mine is looking for a piano
teacher to teach herself, her husband, and her son who is 6
years old at their home. If you can put out a request for a
referral, I'd appreciate it.
Responses so far:
http://www.letsplaymusicsite.com - In response to
the piano teacher question, I'd love to tell everyone about
Let's Play Music!, my piano-introduction course. I start
students at age 4 (or 5-6) and the parents come to the group
lessons with the child every other lesson. I've had many
parents thrilled at the music theory that THEY learned while
playing along with their child (like how to read music,
transpose, find the root of a chord, change to a minor key,
etc.). To the child, the classes are all fun and games and
puppets and props, although every activity has intense
instruction tied in. I like to start young for the
ear-training component (by the end of the year I hope they
can pull a middle C out of thin air), but I don't emphasize
dexterity until later (private lessons might be frustrating
in that regard...dexterity is the whole lesson).
The parents would want another, more-intense private lesson
to improve their own skills further, but I think the Let's
Play Music! program is the best way for a whole family to
play piano together on a level that is fun and playful for
the very young child.
In Sun Prairie: Mary Gartland.
Lessons are 30 minutes long and cost $16 a lesson. Her phone
number is 825-7149.
In Sun Prairie: Nancy Shallert: The
piano lessons are $20 for a 30-minute lesson, located (one
block from the new Northeast Y in Smiths Crossing. 834-2538
In Sun Prairie: Lana Robotewskyj- 608-834-1321
In Sun Prairie: Prairie Music Academy
Happy Earth
Day!!!
April 22 is Earth Day!
Here are some resources to get you started on making this
day a fun and educational opportunity for your family:
Online Earth Day
Tools for Kids
Local Earth Day Activities
Earth Day Celebration 2008 at Happy Bambino
2045 Atwood Avenue; Madison, Wisconsin; 608-204-6147
Sunday, April 20, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
http://www.happybambino.com/page.asp?pgid=150676
Celebrate our commitment to reduce, reuse, and recycle!
Food, family activities, community speakers and a panel
discussion on the major challenges families face in going green
round out the day.
12pm - Big Fun, Little Yoga
Yogi Amala Heeter leads a children's yoga activity based
on The Little Yoga Book. Yoga is a great activity to help
kids (and adults) slow down, stay healthy and breathe and
there's no fancy equipment or setup required.
12:30 - From Applesauce to Zucchini:
Making Your Own Baby Food
Personal Chef, Jenny Ehrlinger, leads a session on preparing
all-natural chemical-free baby food. 1:00
- Earth Day Collage Making for Kids
Featured artist, Rebecca Peragine, will facilitate a
kid's collage making event. Using recycled materials,
families will have the opportunity to participate in a
hands-on art event making something to take home.
1:30 - Why Fair Trade Coffee Matters
Alicia Wright of Just Coffee will present on the
importance of purchasing fair trade coffee and why Fair
Trade coffee is "not just a market, it's a movement." Just
Coffee's local roasted coffee will be available to sample.
Mermaid Cafe, Winnebago Steet's Fair Trade coffeehouse will
provide snacks! 2:00 - World Music
Activity
Eliza Tyksinski, instructor of the oh-so-popular Music
Together classes at Happy Bambino, will be leading a family
World Music jam - complete with members of her own family.
2:30 - Sustainable Plate - Eating & Drinking Locally
Gourtmet food & Local brew - delicious!Liliana's, (named
for David's daughter Lily - a HB regular) is a New Orleans
style gourmet restaurant located in Fitchburg. Liliana's is
a member of Slow Foods and Madison Originals. David will be
speaking about all the great opportunities to eat and drink
locally in the area, including information about local
breweries.
3:00 - "Green" Storytime
Laura Anderson, storyteller extraordinairre, will lead a
storytime reading some great Earth Day-related books. He was
shortish. And oldish.And brownish. And mossy. And he spoke
with a voice that was sharpish and bossy. "Mister!" he said
with a sawdusty sneeze, "I am the Lorax. I speak for the
trees." And of course It wouldn't be complete without Dr.
Seuss' The Lorax! We'll have copies available made of
recycled paper. Laura will hand out a great "library list"
of earth-friendly titles for kids.
3:00 - Panel Discusion
Overcoming Obstacles to Living "Green"
Kermit the Frog contends "It's not easy being green."
But this panel begs to differ. The discussion will address
simple ways to live more sustainably and how to overcome the
hurdles you may face in the process. Panelists: Amanda
White, VP of Community Car; Maia Donahue, E4; Meghan
Blake-Horst, Absolutely Art & Dane Buy Local; Sarana & John
Beik, Roots Wisdom & Eco-Painting.
Care to share? Email us with what obstacles you face in living
green, and you could win one of two $20 gift certificates.
news@happybambino.com
Read bios for all of the panelists and presenters at:
http://www.happybambino.com/earthday2008
Schumacher Farm Public Day
Schumacher Farm County Park, Waunakee 5682 Hwy. 19
Sunday, April 20, 2:00pm - 4:00pm Family sing-along, 2 pm Call:
849-4559
http://www.thedailypage.com/theguide/details.php?event=198077
Free farm activities, prairie walks & refreshments, 2-4 pm,
4/20, 5682 Hwy. 19, Waunakee. Family sing-along 2 pm. 849-4559
Earth Day Celebration
Barnes & Noble 7433 Mineral Point Road
Saturday, April 19, 1:00pm Call: 827-0472
http://www.thedailypage.com/theguide/details.php?event=197904
Hands-on activities based on "A Clean Sea" and "A Clean Sky: The
Global Warming Story" books
Cascade Pass is a children's publishing company doing a
green series for children. We are currently doing a presentation
for earth day featuring two books, A Clean Sea & A Clean Sky-The
Global Warming Story. The presentation will be interactive with
children, the focus will be on our environment, recycling,
taking care of our oceans, and inspiring kids to learn more
about global warming. The author and publisher are available for
interviews. We think that this will make a great story for Earth
Day.
Earth Day Clean-Up
RSVP: 224-3604
Sunday April 20, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
http://www.naturenet.com/EarthWeek.html
Heritage Center located in Lake Farm Park, 3101 Lake Farm Rd. to
help clean up the grounds and gardens around the center.
Advance Registration is Requested. Call Linda at 224-3604
or Email:
Mittnacht@co.dane.wi.us
HELP US:
-Spread mulch
-Weed and prune bushes
-Clear invasive species
-Gardening tools will be provided
Join us afterward in the Lussier Family Heritage Center for
refreshments and Earth Day Activities for the children.
Tak |