Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in denver, CO

Denver Day of Rock!

June 04, 2009

Every year, Concert for Kids (CFK) has something fun up their sleeves. This year, they are going full tilt!

Saturday, June 6th has been declared the DAY OF ROCK across Denver, and there is TONS to do with your little ones, with great music all around.

Concerts For Kids will be hosting free public concerts featuring five local bands at the Fillmore Plaza in Cherry Creek AND at the Downtown Theatre District on Saturday, June 6 from 12:00-6:00 PM. A portion of the food and beverage sales from the concert will benefit CFK.

There will be FREE performances as follows:

Fillmore Plaza Entertainment:
2nd & Fillmore - Cherry Creek
Times and lineup subject to change

1:00 PM Chris Webb Band
2:00 PM Opie Gone Bad
3:00 PM Bela Karoli
4:00 PM Something Underground
5:00 PM Angie Stevens


Theatre District Entertainment:
14th & Curtins - Downtown Denver
Times and lineup subject to change

12:00 PM Savage Henry
1:30 PM Heyday
3:15 PM Epilogues
4:45 PM ROE

Check out the Concert For Kids web site for more information!

The Most Germy & Least Germy Places To Take Your Kids In Denver!

May 08, 2009

It's been kind of crazy watching the news lately huh? Fear of swine flu has made us wash our hands at an alarming rate. And while maybe the immediacy and access of news reports has driven the hysteria around H1N1 out of proportion compared to say, the REGULAR flu... it's still a good lesson for us all.

And something to think about when we take our kids out, especially kids who have compromised immune systems. For example, my neighbor is from Ireland - and his family was just visiting with kids in tow. I warned them! But they really wanted to visit the otherwise wonderful Children's Museum and expose themselves to all those American germs! Three days later they were in the emergency room with the worst cold of their lives and severe trouble breathing.

Now, don't get me wrong. Of course the Children's Museum makes every effort to keep the place clean and sanitized. They even ask that you place any toy that's ventured into a mouth in their convenient basket to be cleaned by staff before returning to play. But with that many kids in confined space, coming together from all over Denver, to share germs from every sector? It's unavoidable.

The other places it's unavoidable? The over-sized food at Cherry Creek mall. And especially, especially, any indoor playground at a fast food restaurant. BALL PITS! Oh my word.

So what can you do? As I mentioned, don't go when your child is sick or has a compromised immune system. And when you do go, bring your own cleaning supplies. These places really do try to supply you with wipes or hand santizer, but it's often gone in 3 seconds flat.

So where can you go that has LESS germs? Think big and outdoors. The Denver Zoo, outdoor parks like City Park and Washington Park, The Denver Botanic Gardens ... and afterward, STILL give a quick rundown with the wet wipes.

And speaking of, Wet Ones would like to help you out in that regard. Go here and get a $1.00 coupon for their Antibacterial Wipes. Awesome! Every bit helps, right?

Art For Edison!

May 01, 2009

Everyone is hurting these days. Especially our local schools.

Have you heard about ART FOR EDISON?

Due to DPS wide budget cuts, the Edison Elementary CSC was forced to cut the art teacher position for next year. This was a devastating blow to the Edison community, and a groundswell of calls for action emerged. As this quickly changing scenario unfolded, Christopher Scott, PTA President, immediately began working to address this through the PTA. Christopher floated the idea of raising money to hire a teacher by Randy Thomae. As an entrepreneur, raising money and quickly achieving the Big Goal triggered a subprimal urge within Randy. Randy and Christopher set out to solve this problem. They started Art for Edison on February 22 to provide Art to all 575 Edison students next year. They can do this by meeting the Big Goal:

Raise $60,000 by May 28.

This will allow them to hire a full time Art teacher. This is 3 times their fundraising goal for the entire school for the whole year, in 1/3 the time.

HOLY COW.

How can you help? Edison is hosting restaurant nights over the next few weeks all over Northwest Denver:

May 6: Duo 2413 W. 32nd (303) 477-4141 and Red Trolley 2639 W. 32nd (303) 433-7200

May 11: Patrick O’Carroll’s 3961 Tennyson (303) 458-6666

May 13: Shazz 4262 Lowell (303) 477-1407 and Bang 3472 W. 32nd (303) 455-1117

May 20: Venue Bistro 3609 W. 32nd (303) 477-0477

GO. EAT. SUPPORT.

Or... support the school directly with donations or purchase of student art.
http://www.artforedison.org/support/

As a graphic designer, of course I believe in this cause. But you should too.

Elliot Eisner, an education professor at Stanford University, has spent his career studying the mental abilities and disciplines developed by the arts. Here are a few items from his impressive list:

• The ability to wrestle with problems that have no single correct answer.
• The ability to analyze a problem from many different viewpoints.
• The ability to absorb new information even while immersed in a project.
• The ability to change strategies and even set new goals, if that's what new information demands.
• The ability to make good judgments in the absence of fixed rules.
• The ability to work with others toward a common goal.
• The ability to imagine what doesn't yet exist.

Need another reason?

ART. IS. FUN.

Go get 'em Edison. 

Early Childhood Education Rally Results!

March 20, 2009

Thanks so much to everyone who has supported the Early Education Association of Colorado! Here is a follow-up from the rally last week from Kathryn Hammerbeck. ~ Aimee

Early childhood education is important to me
By Kathryn Hammerbeck
Executive Director, Early Childhood Education Association of Colorado

What a great sight to see - Colorado children covering the west steps of the Capitol chanting along with local childcare providers - "ECE [early childhood education] is important to me!" Thanks to all those who signed our petition and participated in the rally last Thursday, March 12th we have gained a great deal of attention and support.

Senate Majority Leader Brandon Shaffer (D-Longmont) kicked off the rally, stating that he would not support any budget cuts to early childhood education programs. Senator Shaffer told the crowd that no single issue is more important to him. Gladys Wilson, President and CEO of Qualistar Early Learning, followed stating, "We need to maintain current funding levels for early childhood education programs. These children only get one chance to be three years old, or four or five years old." Tony Gagliardi, Colorado Director of the National Federation of Independent Businesses, spoke about how early childhood education is an important part of workforce development. Finally, Megan Ferland, President and CEO of the Colorado Children's Campaign, pointed out that, "Research has shown that 85 percent of brain development occurs by age three, so there are tremendous potential ramifications for impacting lifetime outcomes in early childhood education and care."

The rally was a big step in gaining awareness and support. If you have not already, please sign the online petition and show our legislative leaders how many Coloradans support early childhood education. Please pass it on to anyone else who supports our cause.

Also, join our Facebook group so you can stay up to date on our progress. As I have said, many voices speaking together yields a powerful message, and considering we're up against almost every other program in the state, we need your help.

Fun Things To Do This Week In Denver!

March 05, 2009

It always amazes me how many cool things there are to do in Denver with the kids! Here is a huge long list for this weekend and the week beyond! Get out there and have some fun!

Just So
Set in a once-upon-a-time land of trunkless elephants, thin-skinned rhinos, and spotless leopards, everything is "just so" until a great adventure transforms them all. Three of Rudyard Kipling's famous tales including How the Elephant Got His Trunk and How the the Leopard Got His Spots, come to life and take the audience on a fun-filled ride of fantasy, humor, and song as they discover the answers. Tickets are available in advance.
720.898.7200 http://www.arvadacenter.org Ongoing Each Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 2/24/09 - 3/13/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 4-19
Time: 10am & 12n
Cost: $8-$10

Art Of Henry: 25 Yrs Of Scenery & Costume Design
The Denver Public Library hosts The Art Of Henry: 25 Years Of Scenery And Costume Design, an exhibition of more than 50 design renderings from one of Denver's cultural pioneers, Henry Lowenstein. 720.865.1111 http://denverlibrary.org Ongoing Daily 1/21/09 - 3/29/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: All Ages
Time: During regular library hours
Cost: Free

Brain Teasers 2
Kids can gain new appreciation for their brain and what it can do when Brain Teasers 2, a nationally traveling exhibit, opens at WOW! Challenge your brain with 20 table top puzzles created by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.
303.604.2424 http://www.wowmuseum.com Ongoing Daily 1/13/09 - 5/31/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 3-8
Time: During regular museum hours
Cost: Free with paid admission

Animal Grossology
Oozing with disgusting science and interactive learning games, the Animal Grossology exhibit provides a unique perspective on the animal kingdom. Kids can experience some of the slimiest, stinkiest, and downright yuckiest creatures on earth.
720.488.3300 http://www.thewildlifeexperience.org
Ongoing Daily 9/24/08 - 4/26/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 4-19
Time: During regular museum hours
Cost: Free with paid admission

The Zula Patrol: Under the Weather
Based on the popular PBS animated children's series, The Zula Patrol: Under the Weather stars stalwart Captain Bula, brainiac Professor Multo, feisty pilot Zeeter, space pet Gorga, and the twin flying companions Wizzy & Wigg - all of whom take youngsters old on a roller coaster fun ride across the universe and and teach them critical facts about science and astronomy. Running time is 24 minutes; shown inside the Gates Planetarium. Ongoing Daily 2/13/09 - 5/29/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 3-8
Time: Varies, check website
Cost: $6-$8

Astronaut
Astronaut, a digitally animated show, reveals what it's like for humans to travel in space and showcases the "Vomit Comet" dive, floating through the International Space Station, and the adventures of Chad, a test astronaut, who is subjected to everything that space has to throw at him. Shown at the Gates Planetarium; running time is 22 minutes. http://www.dmns.org Ongoing Daily 2/13/09 - 5/29/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 5-12
Time: Daily 11am
Cost: $6-$8

A Cosmic Journey
In A Cosmic Journey, viewers can travel through our solar system at many times the speed of light, taking in the wonders of the planets and their moons. As they fly along, spheres appear in the distance, zooming closer until they're giant orbs. From 9am to 2:30pm tickets to Gates Planetarium must be purchased at the special combination price (Museum + Planetarium) that includes the cost of general Museum admission. Planetarium-only tickets are available for the 3pm show or any shows thereafter (must be purchased on-site). 303.322.7009 http://www.dmns.org Ongoing Daily 2/13/09 - 5/29/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 6-19
Time: Shows daily; visit the website for current schedule
Cost: $6-$8 + museum admission

Book Babies
A special storytime for infants ages six to 23 months, with their parent or caregiver. Enjoy books, songs, and fingerplays. 303.733.7585 http://www.denverlibrary.org Ongoing Each Thu 12/4/08 - 5/28/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 0-2
Time: 10:30am
Cost: Free

Jack and the Beanstalk
Silly Jack trades the cow for a pile of beans. The beans turn out to be quite magical and Jack, after many trials and tribulations finds his fortune. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Tickets available at the door. 303.459.6446 http://www.denverpupettheater.com
Ongoing Each Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 2/5/09 - 3/15/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 3-19
Time: Thu-Fri 10am & 1pm; Sat-Sun 1pm
Cost: $5

Family Night at the Burger Recreation Pool
Families are invited to enjoy the pool facilities at the rec center. 303.665.0469 http://www.cityoflafayette.com Ongoing Each Tue, Thu 1/6/09 - 5/28/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: All Ages
Time: 7pm-8:30pm
Cost: $10/family

Storytime at Real Baby in Boulder
Real Baby Boulder hosts a storytime for little ones and their grown-ups featuring favorite books, that are sure to make children smile, laugh, and think. 303.545.2229 http://www.realbabyinc.com Ongoing Each Thu 2/12/09 - 5/21/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 0-6
Time: 11am
Cost: Free

Storytime at My Art Workshop in Littleton
Enjoy a story, snack, and story-related craft, then stick around and play in the preschool workshop for an unlimited time. 303.948.3598 http://www.myartworkshop.com Ongoing Each Thu 8/7/08 - 5/21/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 2-5
Time: 10:30am
Cost: $8

Zoo Tales Family Book Club
The Denver Zoo's Family Book Club features a reading of If You're Happy and You Know It - Jungle Edition, special animal visitors, and simple crafts to make and take home. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Advance registration is required. 303.376.4800 http://www.denverzoo.org Ongoing Daily 3/3/09 - 3/7/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 0-5
Time: 10am-10:45am
Cost: Adult/Child pair $11-$14; Add'l child $4; Add'l adult $8

Homeroom The Musical
The Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids presents Homeroom The Musical. The musical revue touches on matters of importance to contemporary high school kids, from dress codes to personal and academic crises, school discipline, cafeteria food and school lockers. Showtime is approximately 75 minutes. Tickets are available in advance online. 303.245.8150 http://www.theaterforkids.net Ongoing Daily 3/6/09 - 3/7/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 6-19
Time: Fri 7pm; Sat 2pm & 7pm
Cost: Adults $10; Children (12 & under) $8

Aurora Singers - Modern Broadway Hits
The Aurora Singers presents Modern Broadway Hits featuring music from shows including Hairspray, Les Miserables, and Little Mermaid among others. Tickets are available in advance. 303.343.3377 http://www.aurorasingers.org Ongoing Daily 3/7/09 - 3/8/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 6-19
Time: Sat 7:30pm; Sun 2pm
Cost: $8

The Crown of Tara
The Heritage Irish Stepdancers perform The Crown of Tara, a dance that brings to life little-known Irish legends and tells the tale of the mythical creation of Ireland. Tickets are available in advance or at the door. 720.887.2371 http://www.heritageirish.com Ongoing Daily 3/7/09 - 3/8/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 5-18
Time: Sat 7pm; Sun 3pm
Cost: $10-$15

Winter Fun at the Audubon Center at Chatfield
Hands-on nature activities, guided walks to discover the wild side of Chatfield, and access to miles of trails to explore on foot, bike, snowshoe, or cross-country skis (depending on the weather). Hot chocolate, treats, and a place to warm up on cold days provided. 303.973.9530 info@denveraudubon.org http://www.denveraudubon.org 3/7/09
Ages: All Ages
Time: 9am-2pm
Cost: Free

Space Storm
Explore the Sun-Earth connection with Fiske Planetariums's newest original production funded by NASA/TIMED and CU's Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics. Learn how sunspot cycles and solar flares affect you. Tickets are available at the door. Fiske Planetarium, Regent Drive University of Colorado Boulder Campus, Boulder, CO 3/7/09
Ages: All Ages
Time: 2pm
Cost: Adults $5; Children & Seniors $3.50

Hansel and Gretel
Kids can enjoy a new twist on the classic tale from The Brothers Grimm that will delight young and old alike. Advance reservations are available by calling the theater. 303.279.7800 http://www.heritagesquare.info Ongoing Each Sat 2/7/09 - 3/28/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 2-12
Time: 1:30pm
Cost: $5-$6

Penny Saturday
Museum of Contemporary Art Denver invites one an all to visit and pay only one penny admission. 303.298.7554 http://www.mcadenver.org 3/7/09
Ages: All Ages
Time: During regular museum hours
Cost: $.01

Baby Loves Disco Boulder
The family-friendly dance party features real disco tunes from the 70s and 80s (no Barney allowed), spun and mixed by a real DJ, giving tots a taste of the club scene. Think banquettes and bouncers, then add bubble machines, diaper changing stations, an array of healthy snacks, and a chill-out area with tents, books, and puzzles for when kids need a break from all that gettin' down and funky. Charge tickets in advance by phone, or risk being turned away at the door. Cash only accepted at the door. 303.786.7030 http://www.babylovesdisco.com 3/7/09
Ages: 0-7
Time: 11pm-2pm
Cost: $15 in advance, $18 at the door; Crawling babies free

artEXPOsed Student Showcase
The students of the artEXPOsed program showcase their work over the past several weeks in the fields of culinary, visual, dance, and performance arts. The public is invited to attend and enjoy interactive activities and food prepared by the culinary students. 720.977.5817 http://www.cityofthornton.net 3/7/09
Ages: 5-19
Time: 2pm
Cost: Free

Free Day at the Denver Art Museum
Colorado residents are invited to visit the Denver Art Museum and skip the admission charge today. 720.865.5000 http://www.denverartmuseum.org 3/7/09
Ages: All Ages
Time: Regular museum hours
Cost: Free

Free Craft Activities at Lakeshore Learning
Kids of all ages are invited to bring their imaginations for free weekly entertaining and creative activities at Lakeshore Learning Materials every Saturday. Activities and themes change every week. Lakeshore provides all materials and instructions. 303.768.8484 http://www.lakeshorelearning.com Ongoing Each Sat 10/4/08 - 3/28/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 3-18
Time: 11am-3pm
Cost: Free

KinderQuest: Predator - Snakes!
During KinderQuest programs, children delve into the amazing world of animals through animal encounters, zoo tours, obsrvations, interactive activities, and sensory experiences. Kids can get an up close look at some slithery friends. Advance registration is required. 303.376.4800 http://www.denverzoo.org
Ongoing Daily 3/6/09 - 3/7/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 4-5
Time: Fri 10am-12n; Sat 1pm-3pm
Cost: $20-$22

Littleton Tattered Cover Storytime
Young children are invited for a half hour of stories and fun at Tattered Cover. 303.470.7050 http://www.tatteredcover.com Ongoing Each Tue, Sat 1/6/09 - 5/26/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 0-4
Time: 10:30am
Cost: Free

I Love Lava
Kids can learn about volcanoes and Earth's forces that create them by examining a lava bomb, Mount St. Helen's ash, obsidian, pumice, and other volcanic rocks. Making our own volcanos is part of the fun. The second part of this workshop takes place on April 26. Please register in advance. 303.322.7009 http://www.dmns.org 3/7/09
Ages: 6-7
Time: 1pm-3pm
Cost: Members $25; Non-members $35

Mud, Glorious Mud
What one item in nature is a home, skin softener, antiperspirant, and insect repellent? Why, mud, of course. Swallows, elephants, and hippos are only a few of the many animals that find uses for mud. Discover the versatility of mud and even try your hand at building a mud nest. It's more than just wet dirt! Advance registration is required. 303.322.7009; 800.925.2250 http://www.dmns.org 3/7/09
Ages: 4-5
Time: 1pm-3pm
Cost: $25-$30

Secrets of the Dioramas
Take advantage of an informative - and free - 45-minute overview of the "tricks of the trade" that the Museum uses to create award-winning dioramas. Meet about five minutes before tour time by the escalator on the first floor near the ticket-takers. Call to reserve. 303.322.7009 Ongoing Each Sat 2/9/02 - 11/9/10; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 6-18
Time: 12:30pm & 2pm
Cost: Free with museum admission.

Photography Classes for Kids - Imaginary Friend
Kids are invited to use photography as a way to tell a story about something they conjure up. Imagination is key here as kids have to make images that describe a creature no one else can see. Bring your own digital camera or let WWA loan one to you for the morning. Advance registration is required. 303.837.1341 info@workingwithartists.org http://www.workingwithartists.org
3/7/09
Ages: 5-11
Time: 1pm-4pm
Cost: $35

Parent-Child Workshop: Arctic Mitten-Making
Winter is not over yet! Kids and their grown-ups are invited to make a pair of felt mittens patterned after those the Inuit wear. Advance registration is required. 303.492.1666 http://www.cumuseum.colorado.edu 3/7/09
Ages: 5-10
Time: 10am-12n
Cost: $5-$8

Let's Make History: Home Sweet Western Home
The museum's weekend program for families features hands-on exploration of artifacts and objects, crafts, and demonstrations. This week: Participants learn how people have lived in Colorado throughout time by exploring a cliff dwelling, Comanche tipi, and sod house and then making miniature replicas of of the museum's 1859 planked house. 303.866.3682 http://www.coloradohistory.org 3/7/09
Ages: 6-12
Time: 11am-3pm
Cost: Free for children 12 & under

Colorado A-Z

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 04, 2008

We're all talking about the things that are special about our states' today. Letter by letter and city by city. Here are some of my favorite (alphabetical) things about Colorado. A is for Aquarium B is for Breckenridge International Snow Sculpture Competition C is for Columbine State Flower D is for Denver Art Museum E is for Evergreen F is for Flatirons G is for Garden of the Gods H is for Hot  Read more...

History Lesson: Molly Brown

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

September 04, 2008

I am wondering if this post might be old hat for some of you, if you have seen the movie Titanic and/or went to the Titanic exhibit when it was here at the Nature & Science Museum. But I will bravely forge on, because Molly Brown is more than just a character in a movie, she was a real life person and lived here in Denver. In fact, you can visit her hostory, because it's now preserved at the  Read more...

Walkabouts

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

September 01, 2008

We are incredibly lucky in Denver, were we have tons of parks and areas for easy walking. We are safe, clean and pretty. For example, the web site " Walk Score ," which ranks the most walkable cities in America, puts Denver at #11. It also has a great interactive tool with almost weather-radar like feedback that shows you the best places to get your walk on. These areas being their top picks:  Read more...

Taste of Colorado is THIS WEEKEND!

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

August 29, 2008

Are you up for more crowds after a week of the DNC? Then the Taste of Colorado is just in time. even though it is a Labor Day traditon, I am kind of surprised they still decided to have it go on this weekend - the poor grass in Civic Center Park! But the Taste starts today and runs through Monday, September 1st. And if your kids are ones to enjoy lots of people, the Taste is a great family  Read more...

One Week Till The DNC!

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

August 21, 2008

I know that the Democratic National Convention really isn't technically massively preschooler education related, but seeing as this thing is going to TAKE OVER DENVER in just one week, I figure it wouldn't hurt to give a listing of all the events going on downtown and around. Then you can decide if it's worth heading out into the masses, or making sure you stay away. Also, be sure to refer back  Read more...

Three Days in Denver: Day 3

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

July 10, 2008

OK, here we are, the end of our three day tour. I actually feel a little sad! But don't worry, we'll continue to bring awesome stuff to do in Denver, even if it's not packaged up as neatly as this mini-vacation collection! Today we start right downtown! There are several great breakfast places in the LoDo area, so if your hotel is up there definitely stop by. Egg Shell & Incredibles Caf,  Read more...

Three Days in Denver: Day 2

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

July 09, 2008

OK, are you ready for more fun in Denver ? Today we are going to head over to the east side of town. First, stop for breakfast at Le Peep (A) right off City Park and don't forget to try the Granola Blues pancakes. My sister from Maryland insists on making a beeline for them every time she comes to visit. After you are fully sated, head up and around the corner to one of our biggest attractions:  Read more...

Local Pride: 5 Awesome Reasons To Raise Kids In Denver

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

June 23, 2008

I grew up on the east coast, in Maryland. And while it was a fun place to grow up lots of water, lots of history I am just loving the fact that my son is a real, true to life, NATIVE of Colorado. (Am I allowed to get the "Native" bumper sticker if I am a parent of a native?) Growing up here from infancy, Declan will certainly have a different perspective on the Centennial State than I did, but  Read more...

Top 99 Things We Must Do With Our Kids In Denver Before They Grow Up

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

May 29, 2008

It's all rushing by way too fast, isn't it? Blink and they grow 2 inches. And all along you keep making these mental notes of things you want to do with them, in your city. Things that will be SO FUN! So memorable! But that you never get around to actually DOING. Ack. That stops here and now. I am going to start a list, with my top 50 things I would like to do with Declan before he grows up (or  Read more...