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Summer is Flying By!


I can't believe that it is almost the middle of July.  Summer is flying by!  The weather is hot and I am loving the afternoon rain showers.  But that feeling of summer coming to an end is already sneaking in to the back of my mind.  I know there is still plenty of time but with June already behind us it won't be long until it is time to start the back to school shopping. 

I hope you and your families are enjoying your summer and that you ...


Paper Flip Flops


Material:

- Colored paper (construction paper or cardstock).
- Glue
- Scissors
- Pencil for tracing feet
- Embellishments (shaped cut outs, crayons, markers, glitter, pom poms, etc.)

Directions:

- Have children place their foot onto a piece of paper.
- Trace around their foot and cut out.
- You could have them place their other foot onto another piece of paper or simply cut out two from the first foot and use the reverse side.
- Cut two long rectangle shapes from more paper and have children glue onto their flip flops to make a strap.
- Let children ...


Play it Safe in the Summer Heat


With summer in full force, many parents are excited to get – and keep – their kids outside and active. However, having kids spend hours on end in the heat can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include paleness, muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. The pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. The skin can be cool and moist; sweating may or may not occur. If untreated, heat exhaustion may ...


Summer Reading Tips


Studies show that kids who read throughout the summer maintain their literacy skills at a higher level than those who do not. Having your child participate in a summer reading program will help them maintain these skills during the summer months as they are encouraged to read purely for the enjoyment of it.

Summer Reading Tips

Here are some tips on making summer reading a positive experience:

  1. Help your child set a realistic book goal.
  2. Create a regular time for reading for all members of the family.
  3. Show genuine interest ...

This Week's Picks:


July 8th through July 14th

Friday, July 8 through Sunday, July 10 - Colorado Irish Festival

The Colorado Irish Festival has been bringing you Irish fun EVERY YEAR since 1994.
This premier 3-day community event has something for everyone. It's OK if you're not Irish because you can see for yourself just what it means to have fun ~ The Irish Way! Enjoy great music, dancing, food, kids activities, entertainment and great beverages for one and all! We expect a huge turnout this year, so plan ahead to have all day fun.
Where: Clement Park Littleton, CO
When: n/a
Who: Everyone
How: You can purchase them at King Soopers or at the gate
Cost: Friday
5pm - 7pm FREE Admission $5 after 7 Saturday & Sunday
Advanced tickets are $12 per person
$8 for Seniors over 65 students with valid ID and Military personnel with active ID Tickets at the gate
$15 per person
$10 for Seniors over 65 students with valid ID and Military personnel with active ID Kids 12 and under Free!  

Friday, July 8 - Ann's Animals

Join MNHM curator Ann Sarg as she feeds and cares for the live reptiles and amphibians in the Museum collection. What to see and do: -Observes how snakes eat their prey.
-Watch turtles scuttle after their lunch.
-Learn what to do if you encounter a Colorado reptile.
-Pet a live animal.
Where: Morrison Natural History Museum 501 Hwy 8, Morrison, Colorado
When: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just visit the museum during the program
Cost: Admission to the museum is as follows $5 for adults, $4 for kids ages 4-12, and kids 3 and under are FREE  

Saturday, July 9 - H20-lympics

The Children’s Museum of Denver and Children’s Hospital Colorado are partnering up again to bring health and wellness to Denver-area children and their families. H2O-lympics is the 2nd Health for All Seasons, a year-long series of events geared to encourage young children to lead active lifestyles and make nutritious food choices.  H2O-lympics will feature fun water games, sun safety lessons about the importance of sun screen and proper hydration, smoothie sampling with Whole Foods Market and more. 
Where: The Children's Museum of Denver 2121 Children’s Museum Drive
Denver, CO 80211
When: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just head down to the museum
Cost: Events are FREE with museum admission
For more info: www.mychildsmuseum.org

Saturday, July 9 - Kids Saturday Nickelodeon

Embark on a fun-filled excursion for the whole family when you attend this Saturday afternoon series with our guarantee: the films are rated G, and entrance is totally free. Sponsored by the Kids First! Coalition for Quality Children’s Media, the Scientific Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), Target, Wells Fargo and the Xcel Energy Foundation.  
Where: Starz FilmCenter, 900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204
When: 3:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come and enjoy
Cost: FREE
For more info: Click HERE for more details

Saturday, July 9 - Saturday Night Campfire Program: Peppy Pollinators

Join us for fun and education for the entire family! A marshmallow roast will follow each program, weather permitting. Peppy Pollinators
In order for plants to come up each spring, last year’s plants must have made seeds. Pollination is a crucial part of this process. Explore a myriad of creatures that play key roles in plant pollination helping them to make seeds, fruits, nuts and berries each year.
Where: Bear Creek Lake Park, located at Morrison Road and C-470 in Morrison, Colorado Meet at the Learning Center Ampitheater
When: 7:30 PM
Who: Everyone
How: No registration required.
Cost: Park entry fee is required but program is free. Park entry is $5 per car.

Sunday, July 10 - Baby Boogie

Let the Babies Boogie!
It is Sunday afternoon and the kids are restless. What do you do? We know a place, the perfect location, in Old Town Arvada on Grandview Avenue called the D Note. Every Sunday the kids, from 1 month to 12 years old, come and enjoy music, both by listening to it, playing it and dancing to it. Parents relax at their tables, watching the kids dance and play together - great entertainment in and of itself. The children make new friends and greet some old ones. Some even make this a weekly gathering spot.
Where: The D Note 7519 Grandview Avenue, Arvada, CO www.dnote.us
When: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just jump in the car and come on down!
Cost: The cost for the event is, get this, FREE!

Sunday, July 10 - Ice Cream Social

Join us for our FIRST in a series of Ice Cream Socials. Gelato by Espo will be providing authentic traditional Italian Gelato. Gelato by Espo uses all natural ingredients, the Gelato has a lower fat content than ice cream and is whipped with less air so the flavor coats your tongue more than your average ice cream. . Join us on our finished patio for a cool treat on your Sunday evening.
Where: The Village at Edgewater 5700 West 25th Avenue
Edgewater, CO 80214
When: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come down and join us
Cost: We'll be selling scoops at $2.00 a scoop. We'll also have Gelato sandwiches for $1.50 and Push-Pops for $1.00
For more info: www.eatplaylearn.com

Tuesday, July 12 - Ramona and Beezus - Summer Movie Clubhouse

Beat the heat with a cheap summer movie!
Where: Belmar Cinemark Theatre
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Head on down to the theatre
Cost: All 10 movies can be purchased in advance for $5.00, or can be purchased separately at the box office for $1.00 per show.

$5 Series punch cards are limited and are now available only at the theatre box office while supplies last. Admission with a series punch card is limited to one person per card per movie, and valid only at the theatre where purchased.
For more info: More info HERE

Tuesday, July 12 - Drums Around the World

Children can learn about rhythm and musical beats as they get to participate in a real drumming circle. Each child will get to use one of the many drums at this program and will also learn about the cultures of drums.
Where: Arvada Library
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: For children aged 4 and up
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Tuesday, July 12 - Harry Potter Family Craft Night

New! Harry Potter themed pottery including wizards, castles, sorting hats and dragons.  Also choose projects from our extensive pottery, tie dye, canvas, mosaics, wood projects, sand art and more! FREE pizza and drinks plus we'll be giving away a pair of tickets to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2! 
Where: My Art Workshop 5950 S. Platte Canyon Rd., #D12, Littleton, CO 80123
When: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Everyone
Cost: The event is free but project costs vary.
For more info: www.myartworkshop.com

Wednesday, July 13 - Tale of Desperaux - Summer Movie Express

Beat the heat with a cheap summer movie!
Where: Regal Movie Theatres West Village Stadium 12
14225 W. Colfax Avenue
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Head on down to the theatre
Cost: Only ONE DOLLAR!!!!!!!
For more info: More info HERE

Wednesday, July 13 - Diary of a Wimpy Kid - Summer Movie Express

Beat the heat with a cheap summer movie!
Where: Regal Movie Theatres West Village Stadium 12
14225 W. Colfax Avenue
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Head on down tothe theatre
Cost: Only ONE DOLLAR!!!!!!!
For more info: More info HERE

Wednesday, July 13 - Ramona and Beezus - Summer Movie Clubhouse

Beat the heat with a cheap summer movie!
Where: Belmar Cinemark Theatre
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Head on down to the theatre
Cost: All 10 movies can be purchased in advance for $5.00, or can be purchased separately at the box office for $1.00 per show.

$5 Series punch cards are limited and are now available only at the theatre box office while supplies last. Admission with a series punch card is limited to one person per card per movie, and valid only at the theatre where purchased.
For more info: More info HERE

Wednesday, July 13 - Rhythmic Drumming

Beat away the blues and learn stress relieving rhythms in this interactive drumming class. Teens will learn about the history and culture of rhythmic meditative drumming and there are plenty of drums for all!
Where: Edgewater Library
When: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Teens
How: Tickets are not required, but plan to come early as space is limited.
Cost: FREE

Wednesday, July 13 - MegaMind - Aspen Grove Family Film Festival

The Family Film Festival runs every Wednesday evening NOW - July 27th.  Festivities start at 6 pm to include sponsor and food booths, a jumpy castle, games, entertainment, giveaways, tasty treats and more!  Movies begin at dusk. Wednesday nights coinciding with The Family Film Festival, visit Qdoba at Aspen Grove and receive a FREE Kids Meal when you purchase any regular Adult Entree. Sponsored by: Alta Aspen Grove, Mommy Meeting, Primrose School of Littleton and Hampton Inn & Suites.  Be sure to visit their booths to find out more about their organizations
Where: Aspen Grove Shopping Center Littleton, Colorado
When: 6:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come out and enjoy the fun and movie
Cost: FREE!!

Thursday, July 14 - Rhythmic Drumming

Beat away the blues and learn stress relieving rhythms in this interactive drumming class. Teens will learn about the history and culture of rhythmic meditative drumming and there are plenty of drums for all!
Where: Evergreen Library
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Teens
How: Tickets are not required, but plan to come early as space is limited.
Cost: FREE

Thursday, July 14 - Drums Around the World

Children can learn about rhythm and musical beats as they get to participate in a real drumming circle. Each child will get to use one of the many drums at this program and will also learn about the cultures of drums.
Where: Golden Library
When: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: For children aged 4 and up
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Plan Ahead:


July 15th through July 21st

Friday, July 15 - Hattie's Hats Storytime and Author Meet and Greet

Bring your little ones in their cutest hats and enjoy a FREE reading of HATTIE’S HATS, read by the author, Gordon Crane.
Hattie Long had no idea when she started collecting hats that she would open up a world of adventure. Join Hattie on this magical journey, and pretend, if you wish, that you are along for the ride.


FREE FOOD AND COFFEE

Join us after the reading for free finger pastries and free coffee in the dining area. You’ll have a chance to talk to the author and ask questions. He’ll also have copies of his book available if you’d like to purchase one.


Where: The Village at Edgewater www.eatplaylearn.com
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come on down
Cost: FREE
For more info: ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gordon Crane has made working with children a lifelong endeavor. As a retired teacher and a supportive father of two daughters, he draws from rich experiences to create imaginative and entertaining stories that support traditional American values. Often his gentle touch of humor hits close to home for his readers both young and old. He resides in Aurora, Colorado with his wife, Linda.

Friday, July 15 - Drums Around the World

Children can learn about rhythm and musical beats as they get to participate in a real drumming circle. Each child will get to use one of the many drums at this program and will also learn about the cultures of drums.
Where: Belmar Library
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: For children aged 4 and up
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Friday, July 15 - Strong Sun Full Moon Hike

The darkness of night provides a unique backdrop for a hiking adventure. So leave those flashlights at home and hone your night vision as a park naturalist guides you along the trails of Lakewood’s Bear Creek Lake Park and surrounding green spaces. These hikes are designed for the whole family, but keep in mind each one will average an hour and a half of walking and observing. And don’t forget to dress appropriately and wear appropriate shoes for Colorado’s everchanging weather. No dogs please.
Where: Bear Creek Lake Park, located at Morrison Road and C-470 in Morrison, Colorado
When: 7:30 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Register by calling 303-697-6159 Registration closes the Monday before the event
Cost: Park entry fee is required but program is free. Park entry is $5 per car.

Saturday, July 16 - Saturday Night Campfire Program: Hawk Quest

Join us for fun and education for the entire family! A marshmallow roast will follow each program, weather permitting. Hawk Quest
Spend the evening with Hawk Quest and their live birds of prey. Examine the features of these birds and learn about the different groups of raptors and what it takes to make them skilled hunters.
Where: Bear Creek Lake Park, located at Morrison Road and C-470 in Morrison, Colorado Meet at the Learning Center Ampitheater
When: 7:30 PM
Who: Everyone
How: No registration required.
Cost: Park entry fee is required but program is free. Park entry is $5 per car.

Tuesday, July 19 - FREE Day at the Denver Botanic Gardens

Come an enjoy all the beauty that the Denver Botanic Gardens have to offer.
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens 1007 York St.
Denver, CO 80206
When: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Who: All Colorado residents
How: Just show your Colorado ID
Cost: FREE!!
For more info: www.botanicgardens.org

Tuesday, July 19 - Yogi Bear - Summer Movie Clubhouse

Beat the heat with a cheap summer movie!
Where: Belmar Cinemark Theatre
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Head on down to the theatre
Cost: All 10 movies can be purchased in advance for $5.00, or can be purchased separately at the box office for $1.00 per show.

$5 Series punch cards are limited and are now available only at the theatre box office while supplies last. Admission with a series punch card is limited to one person per card per movie, and valid only at the theatre where purchased.
For more info: More info HERE

Tuesday, July 19 - Charlotte's Web- Summer Movie Express

Beat the heat with a cheap summer movie!
Where: Regal Movie Theatres West Village Stadium 12
14225 W. Colfax Avenue
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Head on down to the theatre
Cost: Only ONE DOLLAR!!!!!!!
For more info: More info HERE

Tuesday, July 19 - Drums Around the World

Children can learn about rhythm and musical beats as they get to participate in a real drumming circle. Each child will get to use one of the many drums at this program and will also learn about the cultures of drums.
Where: Conifer Library
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: For children aged 4 and up
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Wednesday, July 20 - Yogi Bear - Summer Movie Clubhouse

Beat the heat with a cheap summer movie!
Where: Belmar Cinemark Theatre
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Head on down to the theatre
Cost: All 10 movies can be purchased in advance for $5.00, or can be purchased separately at the box office for $1.00 per show.

$5 Series punch cards are limited and are now available only at the theatre box office while supplies last. Admission with a series punch card is limited to one person per card per movie, and valid only at the theatre where purchased.
For more info: More info HERE

Wednesday, July 20 - Marmaduke - Summer Movie Express

Beat the heat with a cheap summer movie!
Where: Regal Movie Theatres West Village Stadium 12
14225 W. Colfax Avenue
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Head on down to the theatre
Cost: Only ONE DOLLAR!!!!!!!
For more info: More info HERE

Wednesday, July 20 - Drums Around the World

Children can learn about rhythm and musical beats as they get to participate in a real drumming circle. Each child will get to use one of the many drums at this program and will also learn about the cultures of drums.
Where: Wheatridge Library
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: For children aged 4 and up
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Wednesday, July 20 - Rocky Mountain Puppets

Sing and play with the Rocky Mountain Puppets. They are a variety of cute and cuddly characters. Presenter Meghan Casey started puppeteering at age 6 and is now still young enough to identify with her young audience but has the sage experience to make the show an exciting and lively professional performance for all.
Where: Wheat Ridge Library
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: For all ages
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Wednesday, July 20 - Drums Around the World

Children can learn about rhythm and musical beats as they get to participate in a real drumming circle. Each child will get to use one of the many drums at this program and will also learn about the cultures of drums.
Where: Edgewater Library
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: For children aged 4 and up
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Wednesday, July 20 - Karate Kid - Aspen Grove Family Film Festival

The Family Film Festival runs every Wednesday evening NOW - July 27th.  Festivities start at 6 pm to include sponsor and food booths, a jumpy castle, games, entertainment, giveaways, tasty treats and more!  Movies begin at dusk. Wednesday nights coinciding with The Family Film Festival, visit Qdoba at Aspen Grove and receive a FREE Kids Meal when you purchase any regular Adult Entree. Sponsored by: Alta Aspen Grove, Mommy Meeting, Primrose School of Littleton and Hampton Inn & Suites.  Be sure to visit their booths to find out more about their organizations
Where: Aspen Grove Shopping Center Littleton, Colorado
When: 6:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come out and enjoy the fun and movie
Cost: FREE!!

Wednesday, July 20 - Treasure Hunt

Come and enjoy an outdoor treasure hunt at Bear Creek Lake Park!  We will provide you with a GPS geocaching unit and the skills needed to use it to find treasures scattered throughout the park.
Where: Bear Creek Lake Park Morrison, Colorado
When: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Kids ages 6-14
How: Register online at www.lakewood.org Activity Number 231805-02
Cost: $15 Resident or $19 Nonresident

Thursday, July 21 - Rocky Mountain Puppets

Sing and play with the Rocky Mountain Puppets. They are a variety of cute and cuddly characters. Presenter Meghan Casey started puppeteering at age 6 and is now still young enough to identify with her young audience but has the sage experience to make the show an exciting and lively professional performance for all.
Where: Columbine Library
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: For all ages
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Thursday, July 21 - Rocky Mountain Puppets

Sing and play with the Rocky Mountain Puppets. They are a variety of cute and cuddly characters. Presenter Meghan Casey started puppeteering at age 6 and is now still young enough to identify with her young audience but has the sage experience to make the show an exciting and lively professional performance for all.
Where: Columbine Library
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: For all ages
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Thursday, July 21 - Rocky Mountain Puppets

Sing and play with the Rocky Mountain Puppets. They are a variety of cute and cuddly characters. Presenter Meghan Casey started puppeteering at age 6 and is now still young enough to identify with her young audience but has the sage experience to make the show an exciting and lively professional performance for all.
Where: Columbine Library
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: For all ages
How: Tickets are required and can be picked up one week in advance of the program. Contact your local library for more information.
Cost: FREE

Kids Eat FREE!!


There are a lot of places in the metro area that have Kids Eat Free (or practically free) Nights!  Here is a list of ones that we know of, and we would love to hear about any that you know to add to our list!  Always call ahead to confirm that they are still having a Kid's Eat Free Night because restaurants can change these at any time.

Also if you find out we have something wrong please let us know.

Everyday 

Las Fuentes (Lakewood) - One free kids meal ...


Macaroni Kid Mom's Group Directory


Are you new to the area? Even if you are not, maybe you are looking for other moms to hang out with (with kids and maybe sometimes without!). Local mom's groups are a great way to meet new friends, and find support. And your kids will make new friends as well!

I've created a list of area Mom's Clubs in the new Business Directory (Many thanks to everyone who contacted me and submitted information.) I know there are more, so if you are a member of a ...


Making "My Macaroni" Work For You


A little info on this great feature

Have you spent all week sifting through the papers, stacks of magazines, pamphlets and flyers, only to get to the car on the day of, and not have the address? Then you have to unload everyone, head back in and look up the address, print out the page, only to arrive exhausted, and late.
Macaroni Kid to the rescue! (Dramatic music here)

Lakewood Macaroni Kid delivers all of the family fun events happening to your inbox each Thursday.

What is “My Macaroni?”

Have you ever wished to have an extra ...


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