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

The Public Library: What All Does It Offer?

March 25, 2009

Denver is is very lucky in many ways - and one of the ways we are VERY lucky is our huge public library system. AND! Not only do we have a huge library system by location (see listings below), the offerings from the Library is amazing.

First and foremost, we can't forget the Central location at 14th and Lincoln which was designed by Michael Graves (yes, THAT Michael Graves of Target fame). This location is clearly an architectural wonder - but also is so centrally located, a quick trip to the Capital and the Denver Art Museum is also a hop, skip and a jump away. But the Central location also has great activities planned nearly every Saturday. I can't tell you how many times my husband and son attended Book Babies when Declan was very young. In fact, we still stay in touch with friends we made through that program.

The good news for those not close to the downtown location is that ALL public libraries in Denver have fun things going on, ALL the time. Check their official web site for a continually updated list of activities. From storytimes, magic shows to special classes - [and oh yeah - BOOKS]... the library offers so many things to enrich our kids lives. And nearly all of it is completely FREE.

Talk about an amazing resource.

CURRENT DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY LOCATIONS:

The Central Library
10 W. Fourteenth Ave. Pkwy. (80204), 720-865-1111, TTY: 720-865-1472

Athmar Park Branch Library
1055 S. Tejon St. at W. Mississippi Ave. (80223), 720-865-0230

Bear Valley Branch Library
5171 W. Dartmouth Ave at S. Sheridan Blvd. (80236), 720-865-0975

Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library
2401 Welton Street (80205), 720-865-2401

Byers Branch Library
675 Santa Fe Dr. at W. 7th Ave. (80204), 720-865-0160

Eugene Field Branch Library
810 S. University Blvd. at E. Ohio Ave. (80209), 303-777-2301, TTY: 303-733-7435

Ford-Warren Branch Library
2825 High St. at E. 28th Ave. (80205), 720-865-0920

Hadley Branch Library
1890 S. Grove St. at W. Jewell Ave. (80219), 720-865-0170, TTY: 303-935-4267

Montbello Branch Library
12955 Albrook Dr. (80239), 720-865-0200

Pauline Robinson Branch Library
5575 E. 33rd Avenue at Holly St. (80207), 303-370-1530

Ross-Barnum Branch Library
3570 W. First Ave. at Lowell Blvd. (80219), 720-865-0145

Ross-Broadway Branch Library
33 E. Bayaud Ave. at S. Lincoln St. (80209), 720-865-0135

Ross-Cherry Creek Branch Library
305 Milwaukee St. at E. 3rd Ave. (80206), 720-865-0120

Ross-University Hills Branch Library
4310 E. Amherst Ave. at S. Birch St. (80222), 720-865-0955

Schlessman Family Branch Library
100 Poplar Street (1st and Quebec) (80220), 720-865-0000, TTY: 720-865-0045

Smiley Branch Library
4501 W. 46th Ave. at Utica St. (80212), 720-865-0260

Valdez-Perry Branch Library
4690 Vine St. at 47th Ave. (80216), 303-295-4302

Virginia Village Branch Library
1500 S. Dahlia St. at E. Florida Ave. (80222), 720-865-0940, TTY: 303-504-5790

Westwood Branch Library
1000 S. Lowell Blvd. (80219), 720-865-0215

Woodbury Branch Library
3265 Federal Blvd at W. 33rd Ave. (80211), 720-865-0930 

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

Top 10 Things To Do Before Kindergarten

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

January 27, 2009

Time flies so fast doesn't it? Believe me, I know. Declan is 6 and a half now, and halfway through 1st grade. The changes over the past few years have been astounding. And I know many of you are not even thinking about preschool, much less Kindergarten or 1st grade. So NOW is the time to get all those activities in. The ones you can't find the time for later when school and other friends and  Read more...

Parenting Books That Saved My You-Know-What

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

January 08, 2009

Honestly, before we had Declan - I have only babysat ONCE in my life. So, clearly I needed a lot of help when I became a parent. While I was pregnant, I did a lot of reading. A lot A LOT. Here are some books that I found to be really valuable and learned a ton from. Of course, I also learned that no book is the end-all be-all. We took pieces and parts of books that worked for us, and discarded  Read more...

My Top Ten for 2008

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

December 30, 2008

I can't believe this year is drawing to a close already. And it's been really fun talking about all the great things to do in Denver. And just like everyone does at the end of the year - let's take a look back! Here are my ten favorite posts from 2008. I hope you enjoyed them as much as I did! Local Pride: 5 Awesome Reasons To raise Kids In Denver Top 99 Things We Must Do With Our Kids In  Read more...

Hanukkah Books!

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

December 08, 2008

Hanukkah starts at sundown on Sunday December 21st this year. So you still have time to get some extra books for your young Jewish child - or, if you are not of the Jewish faith, here are some great ideas to introduce your young one to the practices of another religion. Blues Clues Chanukah I don't know about your kids, but even with Declan at age 6, he is still a big fan of Blue. Blue has  Read more...

Getting Into Food Through Books

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 26, 2008

Books are such a great way to explore subjects with our kids, why should food be any exception? Here are some great ideas to hep you have fun with your kids in the kitchen, ranging from cookbooks and books teaching nutrition to the youngin's. Junior Cookbook from Better Homes & Gardens Fun graphics accompany this cookbook from the experts on, well, everything! Around The World Cookbook I  Read more...

Mile High Literature

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 25, 2008

Looking for some books about Denver and our lovely state? Here are some great suggestions. Good Night Denver This series of books has many regions covered, and Denver is no exception. This adorable book hits many of Denver's wonderful attractions as two little dumplings hit the hay. C Is For Centennial This book does the ABC's Colorado style. The Centennial state is covered in this informative  Read more...

The Kid's Book Illustrator I Learned About In College

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 19, 2008

I was a graphic design major in college. And included in that major was a class in illustration. And my teacher for that class was pretty much the toughest teacher I ever had. But, of course, I learned so much from him. One of my favorite lessons was a whole day on the children;s book illustrator Chris Van Allsburg. You may not recognize his name, but you have probably either read his books -  Read more...

Books That Tickle Their Funny Bone

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 18, 2008

If you couldn't tell already, we are a pretty silly family, so we really enjoy funny books. Here are a few that make Declan chuckle. Walter The Farting Dog I have to admit that Declan didn't actually understand this book at first, because we use the word "toot" instead of fart. But once I explained it to him, his little toddler brain completely howled! I Stink! A friend gave Declan this book  Read more...

Bedtime Books

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 17, 2008

There is just something special about those books that you snuggle up with, isn't there? Here are some of Declan's favorites over the years. A great list of books for bedtime! Guess How Much I Love You What's not to love? This simple book shows the give and take between a mom and baby rabbit - and that love is infinite. Snuggle Up Sleepy Ones This book follows all the creatures in the African  Read more...

Leaping Into Chapter Books

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 13, 2008

I have probably bragged about Declan's reading skills on this blog before. Reading is his thing. He just picked it up early and ran with it. Just like some kids pick up a football and go. But the funny thing is, once it was time for him to start reading "Chapter Books," meaning books that are longer and are broken into chapters, he just wasn't into it. He was fully capable, he just didn't want  Read more...

The Tattered Cover

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 11, 2008

When people come to visit Denver, quite often, top of their list of sights to see is the Tattered Cover. It's a community icon for massive amounts of books, AND being one of the largest independent booksellers in the United States. I admit I was nervous when the flagship store closed in Cherry Creek and moved the the Lowenstein Theater on Colfax in 2006, but the new location has flourished.  Read more...

The Author In Your House

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

November 06, 2008

I can't tell you how many "books" Declan has already authored. The number is mind-numbing. It's been amazing to watch how they have changed over the years, to now - at age 6 - they really *are* books. Here are some tips for you to encourage the little author in your child. - Teach the idea of "beginning," "middle," and "end." Sure, the younger ones will have a more rudimentary understanding of  Read more...

Ghoulish Literature

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

October 24, 2008

One of the really fun things about Halloween is all the great books! Here are two we got this year that Declan is totally in love with. The Haunted Ghoul Bus This book has adorable illustrations and lots of rhyming, which Declan totally loves. It's the story of a little boy who gets on the wrong bus one morning near Halloween, and ends up encountering some very strange characters.  Read more...

My Nephew's Favorite Books

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

October 03, 2008

I am Maryland right now, visiting family and traveling for work. It's amazing when you hang out with kids that are just a little bit younger than yours, you remember how quickly they change. Declan just turned 6 and my nephew is 3 and half. So, clearly the types of books they like are very different. So, I asked my nephew to share his faves with me (and in turn, you) so I could get a taste for  Read more...

Declan's Book List

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

June 20, 2008

Seeing as my son is rapidly approaching 6, he knows everything. EV-ER-EE-THING. So, he thought it would be fun to pick out some of his old favorites and get a reading list together for you all. What can I say, he's nearly 6. You know how bossy they can be. DECLAN'S FAVORITE BOOKS. BROUGHT TO YOU BY, WELL, DECLAN. Yoko This lovely story of a young girl (um, cat) who is left out because the  Read more...

Continuing On With The Safety Theme

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

June 06, 2008

I always get annoyed as people flip out when as child goes missing somewhere. Don't get me wrong, I feel terrible; it's a horrible thing and the world is certainly not a safe place. But it's also a relatively rare thing. The chances of a child getting snatched are astronomical, with the chances of a child getting sexually molested is 1 in 4. Usually by someone they know. So, when I hear women  Read more...

Book Nooks for Tots

by Aimee Greeblemonkey

May 14, 2008

There are really two major places that come to mind when you think books in Denver. The Denver Public Library and the Tattered Cover. The crown jewel in the Denver Public Library system is of course, the Central location downtown near the capital. Designed by Michael Graves (yes, *that* Michael Graves you see in Target), the building itself is incredibly interesting to see and be inside of. But  Read more...