REVIEW: LITTLE EXPLORERS PROGRAM

Little Explorers is a class offered through Stark Parks for preschoolers. The class is offered every two weeks with new wildlife/nature topics each session. We have attended sessions on snakes, squirrels, pumpkins, etc.

Typically, you have a bit of time to explore the room, then a craft or two and then the instructor gives a short talk on the topic using visual aids. On the squirrel class, we took a short walk on the trail outside the classroom to see if we could see any squirrels “in nature”. There were several live snakes at the “snake” class and we were able to pet one.

The classroom is full of interesting exhibits – live/stuffed animals, animal parts (furs, bones, etc) the kids can touch, information about life cycles and babies, models of habitats, and more.

Insider Tips:
---Register early – this class fills up quickly.
---If you like to hike, there is a wooded trail right outside the classroom door with a great view.
---Arrive a bit early so you have time to explore the room.

What I Liked:
---The classroom exhibits - you could spend an hour just looking around the room.
---They try to have a good amount of hand-on activities and exhibits. With preschoolers, that’s important!
---The classroom is on the floor right below a very cool library, a gift shop, and the canalway center. Lots to do in one place.

What I Would Change:
I would recommend this class for children who are 4 or older – the 3-year-olds may not have the attention span or understanding to fully enjoy the class.

For More Information:
To register, visit www.starkparks.com or call 330-477-3552.

Reviewer: Allyson Robinson, mother of three children ages 6 and younger

Review: Canton Farmer's Market

Every Saturday morning you can experience a feast for your senses at the Canton Farmer's Market. When I arrived with my daughters, we smelled fragrant bouquets of fresh cut flowers, saw colorful, locally grown produce, tasted samples of delicious cheese, and heard a musician stumming a guitar.

While many of the same vendors are there every week, there are always a few new tents with more items that are sure to please. At the farmer's market, you will be able to purchase produce, baked goods, cheese, eggs, meat, flowers, jewelry, handknitted items and bath products (just to name a few), all locally grown or created.

Often, there is a free craft for children and adults to take part in while enjoying the farmers market. This week, my children drew designs on transparencies with dry-erase markers. Then the transparency was placed on "special paper" and sat in the sun for ten minutes. After browsing for a little bit we returned to the art project and put the paper in water and the picture appeared. It sounds complicated, but we had a very nice lady helping us the whole time! Be sure to check http://www.cantonfarmersmarket.com/ to see the different events for each week.

The Canton Farmer's Market is located in a parking lot on Cleveland Ave N between 4th and 5th streets. It runs every Saturday, 8-11:30am, rain or shine. The market's last date will be October 17th, so be sure to stop by before the season ends!

INSIDER TIPS:

--Have the kids use the bathroom before you leave home as there is no restroom there

--Stroller and wheelchair friendly

--There is limited, but free parking in the same lot as the market, otherwise meter parking is available on the street (I have always been able to find a space in the lot).

**While it is free to peruse the Canton Farmer's Market, obviously there is a cost to purchase items. We left with some vegetables, a loaf of bread, and gourmet cupcakes!

Reviewer: Leslie, mother of three children, 5 yrs and younger

REVIEW: N. Canton Library Children’s Section Renovation

The Children’s Section of the North Canton Library was recently renovated, so I went to take a look. Though the Jackson library is closest to our home (and often used by my kids and I), every once in a while we like a change of scenery, hence our trip to North Canton.

As soon as we walked in the boys said, “OH COOL!”, and ran to all of the toys they just had to try. The play area is extensive and includes a full size dollhouse and accessories, a stocked train table, building toys, a fish tank, a dress up area with mirror, a puzzle table, bead table and art table (just to name a few). Usually my boys (4 and 3) tend to run around, but they stayed and played for quite some time at each activity.

The stacks are well labeled, and many of the board books and items for younger kids are right next to the play area. A large seating area away from the play area can accommodate older kids reading or playing games. The collection of books is well organized. There were 3 rows of DVDs (and some VHS tapes), a full row of CDs, a well-stocked magazine rack, audiobooks and “activity sets” that included a CD with the book. The librarians also put together “book bundles” a set of books grouped by topic (i.e. poetry, staff favorites, just for boys/girls). The library had what were labeled as puppet bags – intriguing, but I didn’t have a chance to investigate.

Overall, I thought the renovation was very well executed. We could easily have spent a half day there between the books and toys. Because the children’s section took up the entire floor, I could relax! My kids were always in earshot, restroom facilities were nearby, the variety of hands-on activities and books kept them interested and there was plenty of seating for both adults and children. We will definitely be back.

INSIDER TIPS:
--If you use a stroller or have a handicap, the elevator opens up directly into the children’s section.
--For little ones, there is a lot to see on the ceiling – transportation motifs stamped into the ceiling panels, hanging planes, etc.

WHAT I LIKED:
--The children’s section took up the whole second floor, so I wasn’t worried about disturbing the adults.
--Restrooms, an elevator, self-checkout and a drinking fountain were all located within the section.
--There are lots of tables and seating areas for adults and children.
--I didn’t have to worry as much about my children “running off” – everything is contained in one space that does not access outside doors or adult sections.

WHAT I WOULD CHANGE:
A friend mentioned that she thought it was a bit darker after the renovation, but I thought the light was good when we went.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Story time begins in October and registration for programs begins Sept. 9. See http://www.ncantonlibrary.org/ for more information, hours and directions.

Reviewer: Allyson, mother of three children, 6 and younger

Review: Beech Creek Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve

Butterfly kisses are real at the Beech Creek Butterfly House as an American Painted Lady flutters by your cheek. The Botanical Garden Association achieves its mission to inspire people to protect and create habitats for butterflies, moths, and related plants by providing an engaging, interactive, and educational environment.

In the Butterfly House, you may walk the gardens and discover Ohio’s native butterflies, moths, and skippers in all stages of their life cycles. It is hard not to smile when a Monarch butterfly lands on your shoulder. The little boy in you may be fascinated by the caterpillars clinging to a plant leaf or the tiny moth eggs and fragile butterfly wings offered to view under a microscope. Friendly volunteers are close by to point out different species and offer a Q-tip for you to dip in sugar water. If lucky, you may entice an Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly to land on your Q-tip for closer inspection.

Lush gardens surround the Butterfly House, including a sensory garden. You can touch, smell, hear, and experience plants that stimulate your senses. Your hands will smell lemony fresh after touching the Lemon Grass. You may think of suntan oil after smelling the Coconut Geraniums.

Currently, the Botanical Garden Association is working to complete the Amazing Garden, A Planet Exploratorium. Children and adults alike stop to watch the earth train run the tracks of the Railroad Garden.

For those that like to stretch their legs before heading home, the Fern Ridge Trail is open year round and offers a beautiful walk through woodlands and meadow. It is approximately one mile in length and includes a bridge that crosses a creek. Tree identification signs help you learn about the different trees growing there.

What I like about the Program:

1) The Butterfly House and The Amazing Garden are enclosed, so weather will not ruin your visit.
2) The science and plant education is provided in hands on, easy to understand displays.
3) Fern Ridge Trail is easy to manage as trail signs are clearly marked.
4) There are picnic tables available in case you wish to pack a picnic lunch.
5) The Butterfly House and Amazing Gardens are handicap accessible.

What I would change about the program:

Build Restroom Facilities to include hand washing and diaper changing stations. Currently, Portable Potties are available outside the Butterfly House.

Tips:

Wear sturdy shoes if planning to hike the Fern Ridge Trail. Although it is possible to push a stroller down the path, it is not paved.
Bring water and hand sanitizer.

Beech Creek Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve is located at:
11929 Beech Street, NE, Alliance, OH 44601.
Phone: 330-829-7050
www.bcbgarden.org

Hours are posted July 6th thru September 13, 2009 as :
Monday thru Saturday 10:00am – 4:00pm
Sundays 12:00pm – 5:00pm.

The Amazing Garden is open
Monday – Saturday 10:00am – 4:00pm
and Sunday 12-5pm from February to mid December.

Admission is free – donations are welcome.

Reviewer: Maria, parent of two children 5 and under.

REVIEW: Kids Workshop at the Home Depot

Recently, we attended a kids workshop at The Home Depot. The workshops run on the first Saturday of each month from 9:00am - 12:00pm. The task for the day was to construct a message board. This was well timed as "Mommy" has had the itch to put a cute message board in the girls bedroom.

The event was well attended by girls, boys, moms, and dads. Upon arrival the children received an apron with their name written on it. It is theirs to keep and bring with them when they return for another workshop. They are also provided with a do-it-yourself kit, tools, and safety goggles. Of course, the tools and safety goggles remain at The Home Depot when the workshop is finished. The assembly kit has step-by-step instructions with big pictures that are easy to read and follow. The pictures allow children who are learning to read the chance to assist in the "project management".

The work environment was very comfortable and well supervised. We were in a private room that had several tables and carpeted floor. 100% of the participants at this workshop chose to build while sitting on the floor. Home Depot employees were readily available to assist with any questions. They were also cheerful and complimentary toward all of the the aspiring carpenters.

The message board task gave the children a chance to learn several handy skills. They were required to work with sandpaper, glue, hammer, nails, screws, and screwdrivers. Daddy tried to lend a helping hand but was quickly discouraged by his two very demanding and particular contractors.

Once the workshop was finished, participants were presented with a certificate of completion and a pin to fasten onto their apron. One young lady had an apron front covered with pins. Each pin represented a previous workshop that she had completed. I believe The Home Depot may have discovered the next HGTV star!

*Upcoming Home Depot Workshops: Saturday, September 5th & Saturday, October 3rd

Reviewer: Dustin, father of 3 children under 6 years of age.

REVIEW: Build and Grow at Lowe's

We recently attended the Build and Grow workshop at Lowe's on the Strip. These workshops take place on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month between 10am and 11am. Upcoming projects are listed on the Lowe's website and on boards at Lowe's locations.

The kids are given an apron with their names on them as well as goggles and a hammer (you may need to request the apron if you're a first-timer). They are also given a kit which includes all of the precut pieces ready for assembly, nails and instructions. The instructions are in both English and Spanish and are relatively easy to follow for children that are able to read.

The kids made helicopters during the particular workshop that we attended and the majority of the workshops are small wooden toys.

The workshops take place in the lumber section of Lowes on folding tables. Many times participants will use the floor as well. Upon completion of the project each child is given a certificate and a project specific patch that can be applied to their apron.

Overall, I would recommend this workshop for kids between 2-8 years of age due to their simplicity and types of items created.

INSIDER TIPS:

As someone that has been to several of these workshops, I would recommend pre-registering on the Lowe's website to save a few minutes filling out a waiver form. I would also like to point out that due to the fact that these workshops are held near the lumber cutting area loud noises can be heard periodically when the saw is in use.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BUILD AND GROW:

The kids really love having their own apron and enjoy remembering what they have made by looking at their patches. They generally like what they make.

WHAT I THINK COULD BE IMPROVED:

1) The staff used to be very friendly and outgoing and willing to assist the kids if they needed it. The kids loved "Mr. Matt" and would ask to see him every time we went to Lowe's. Lately there have been a variety of people staffing the Build and Grow workshops - none of them has seemed very interested in the kids or actively providing assistance or encouragement.

2) Use a variety of tools - while hammering is fun for all kids, the little tiny nails included in the kits are hard to use even for adults.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

More information can be found on the Lowe's Build and Grow website

https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/

Reviewer: Mike, father of three children under 6.

REVIEW: First Friday in Downtown Canton

First Friday is an event available at the Downtown Canton Arts District from 6-10pm on the first Friday of each month. Each event has a different theme and provides art, live music, vendors, food, children's activities, and more. We attended the July 3rd, "Chalk the Walk" themed event.

There were dozens of artists making sidewalk murals and musicians peppered along the sidewalks and at some stages. Several students were performing Shakespeare (I think) but it was too loud to hear what they were saying. Another group from the North Canton Playhouse traveled throughout the arts district performing songs from "Rent". We also watched as a professional sandcastle artist created a 5-6ft tall sandcastle. And, there was one area where kids were encouraged to "chalk the walk".

Several of the galleries offered kids' crafts - some for a $1-2 fee, some free. My kids did the spin art at the 2nd April Galerie - they used paint on q-tips to decorate a round paper spinning on an old record player. That was a big hit! But the studio was on the third floor with very narrow hallways and a long wait which made it kind of a pain to search out. Lynda Tuttle's Art Center provided a free family art workshop where my children could make-and-take their own piece of art. The kids enjoyed making designs on paper by dipping chalk in paint. There was also a variety of vendors - food, art, photographs, jewelry, services.

My kids' favorite activity was the Bluebird Amphitheater tent. They have a variety of dulcimers and autoharps. Each of my kids sat and learned how to play a song on the instruments ("Twinkle Twinkle") and then got a piece of candy. The staff was really fun and the kids went back again before we left.

INSIDER TIPS:

• If you're going with kids GO EARLY! Plan on parking before 6pm and arriving right at 6pm. The crowd is smaller and there's more parking available. By 7:30pm, it was already getting crowded with the adults coming down for dinner and drinks.
  
• Stick with free parking on-street or at the YMCA, library, Christ Presbyterian or St. Peters. Some lots were charging $5 for parking but you'd still have to walk a block or two.
  
• With kids, start at the north end of the district and head south. The beer garden and some of the "adult" attractions are in the northern section, which gets crowded when they fill up later in the evening.
  
• Bring the camera! There are many metal sculptures that your child WILL want to pose with.
  
• Go to the First Friday web site (http://www.cantonfirstfriday.com/) before you go to find out where the kids' crafts are going to be. There isn't much signage to point out places of interest for kids.
  
• If you want to go into the galleries, you may want to carry small kids in a sling or backpack instead of using a stroller. One of the largest galleries, 2nd April Galerie, is three floors with narrow hallways and small individual showing spaces. Definitely no room for a stroller!

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT FIRST FRIDAY:

• Tons of music! Some of the music from the stage was loud, but the kids loved the smaller bands peppered throughout the venue and did not hesitate to dance.
  
• Wide variety of things to see and do - something for everyone.
  
• Sounds mundane, but they had good bathroom facilities and open space to eat. With small kids, you always have to know where the bathroom is! By the large soundstage, there was an open field with some picnic tables and ample port-a-pots. Even better, they had a hand-washing station and paper towels.

WHAT I WOULD CHANGE ABOUT FIRST FRIDAY:

• Provide a map of the actual "Arts District" and label the individual galleries - the map of downtown parking they provide is good, but it was hard to tell what was a part of First Friday.
  
• Many of the gallery listings on the site or in the promo materials did not have full addresses, just "6th street" - making them hard to find for those of us who are unfamiliar with downtown.
  
• Have more of the kids' crafts outside of the galleries, so they're easy to find and have more room, and so those who want to see the exhibits are crowded by families waiting for their turn to do projects.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

See the First Friday web site for details and upcoming events: cantonfirstfriday.com.

Upcoming First Friday Themes:

August 7: Hound Dog Days of Summer
September 4: The Color of Music
October 2: Oktoberfest
November 6: Harvest Moon
December 4: Snow Much to do Downtown

Reviewers: Allyson - full-time mom of 3 kids age 6 and younger, Leslie - full-time mom of 3 kids age 5 and younger.