Macaroni Kid
Lakewood-Littleton-Golden-Wheat Ridge
Macaroni Kid   Editions

Notes from your publisher.....


Another beautiful Colorado week and the countdown to summer has officially began in our house.  We are loving all of the extra outside town we have been getting.  This weekend looks to be gorgeous so try to head out and enjoy some of the great Earth Day events going on around town. 

I hope you all have a wonderful week and thank you so much for being a part of our Macaroni Kid family.  Make sure you are sharing us with all of your friends too! 

Cara

[email protected]


Every Day Is Earth Day, Unless You Live on Mars


As a very young adult, I learned how to be conservative with energy out of necessity when I lived abroad in The United Kingdom. People dying from hypothermia, trying to save on the high cost of heating their homes was something I had never heard of before as a young California girl. They thought I was crazy for baking a potato in the oven and I thought they were completely insane to hang their wash in the cold, cloudy and rainy weather. The weather was cloudy 90% of the year ...


Garden Dirt Cake


Here's a family favorite dessert. You can make it several ways, feel free to tweak the recipe a bit. It is so yummy and kids love to help make it!

 
Ingredients
 ■1/2 cup butter, softened
 ■1 (8 ounce) package light cream cheese, softened
 ■1/2 cup confectioners sugar
 ■2 (3.5 ounce) packages instant sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
 ■3 1/2 cups low-fat milk
 ■1 (12 ounce) container lite frozen whipped topping, thawed
 ■32 ounces chocolate sandwich cookies with creme filling
 ■1 package gummy worms/insects
 
Directions
 1 ...


Upcycled T-Shirt Tote


Want to get a little more life out of those most-loved yet way-too-small shirts? Make 'em into reusable tote bags! Trust me when I tell you this is E.A.S.Y. I'm not exaggerating when I say that I have not used my sewing machine for over 6 years, when I made curtains for my first baby's room. So if I can do this, so can you. :o)

You will need:

  • T-shirt
  • scissors
  • sewing machine (you *could* sew by hand...)

What you do:

  1. Cut off the arms ...

This Week's Picks:


April 19th through April 26th

Thursday, April 19 - Wii and Xbox Kinect

Enjoy these popular interactive video games featuring different games each month.  We’ve got a variety of games to choose from for both platforms, so come check it out!
Where: Bemis Public Library
6014 S. Datura St.
Littleton, CO 80120
When: 3:30 PM
Who: Teens
How: Just come join the fun
Cost: FREE

Friday, April 20 through Saturday, April 28 - Disney's Beauty and the Beast

Come and join us for a " tale as old as time" as we share in Belle's adventures from a small provincial town to life in an enchanted castle with all her new friends!
Where: West Bowles Community Church 12325 W. Bowles Littleton, CO
When: Friday & Saturday shows have 7:00 p.m. Start times and only Saturday shows have 2:00 matinee shows as well
Who: Recommended ages 3 - adult
How: Purchase tickets from our website-www.audienceofonetheater.org
Cost:
  $15.00
For more info: Please visit our website for more detailed information- www.audienceofonetheater.org or contact [email protected]

Saturday, April 21 through Sunday, April 29 - National Parks Week

Looking for something fun, free, and fantastic to do with family and friends?   Head out to America's national parks where millions of stars light up the dark  night sky, deer and antelope (and a few other critters!) play on the wide open range, and history is an unbelievable experience, not an exam.
Where: At any of the 397 National Parks across the country
When: n/a
Who: Everyone
How: Just come and enjoy the beauty
Check out some of the other great discounts being offered by park partners:http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm
Cost: FREE
Fee waiver includes: entrance fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tours, concession and fees collected by third parties are not included unless stated otherwise.
For more info: www.nps.gov

Saturday, April 21 - Family FunRise Breakfast

Don't Miss Out on Our Family Funrise. We will be decorating pillow cases! And, any kid wearing pajamas will receive a Free 3 count chick-n-mini. The Cow will be there in his pajamas as well
Where: Chick-fil-A at Jefferson Village
9976 W. Remmingtion Place (Kipling and C470)
Littleton, CO
When: 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come have fun with us!
Cost: Event is FREE!

Saturday, April 21 - Junior Naturalists: Cavity Nesters

What's that tapping & drumming all about?  Cavity nesting birds are excavating homes and searching for mates this time of year.  Find out the difference during this interactive trail-based program. 
Where: 910 Colorow Road
Golden, 80401
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Ages 6-10 with an adult
How: Register online HERE
Cost: FREE

Saturday, April 21 - Mountain Area Earth Day Fair

Join us to celebrate Earth Day at the Evergreen Lake House.  This popular annual event has something for everyone with over 50 federal, state, and local agencies, nonprofit organizations and businesses planning an array of exhibits and fun.  During the fair, be sure to visit Evergreen Nature Center, which will be open in the old warming hut.   
Visit http://www.evergreenaudubon.org for more information.
Where: Evergreen Lake
29614 Upper Bear Creek Road
Evergreen, CO 80437
When: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come on down and join us
Cost: FREE

Saturday, April 21 - Earth Day Expo

Spring into Green 2012 is a one-day event showcasing companies, agencies and organizations that provide products, services, resources and information for attendees to make more sustainable choices.
  • The Kid's Zone
  • Face painting
  • A bird's of prey exhibit, featuring live birds
  • Museum tours
  • Art displays
  • Sustainability exhibits and demonstrations
  • Educational displays
  • Green living tips
  • And more!
Where: Lakewood's Heritage Center
801 S. Yarrow St.
Lakewood CO 80226
When: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come on down
Cost: FREE

Saturday, April 21 - Money Matters Class - Money Memory

Money Memory - Students will interact with games that encourage the development of positive money behavior. Young Americans offers a wide range of exciting Money Matters Saturday Classes.  These  classes are age appropriate, include hands-on activities, and require advance registration below.
The best thing about our Money Matters classes is that you will earn a $5 Bonus Bucks Certificate for attending the class!  After class you can take that certificate to the bank and deposit it into your account - or use it to open a savings account.  We're talking free money into your savings. 
Where: Classes are at our Denver facility: 3550 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado
When: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Who: Ages 3-5
How: All classes require advanced registration, as they fill-up!  Please complete the form online HERE. Classes without an adequate number of participants may be canceled and you will be notified. Classes are FREE, but space is limited.
Cost: FREE

Saturday, April 21 - Body Art Make It Take It

Have some fabulous fun with body paint.
Where: Your local Michael's Craft Store
www.michaels.com
When: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 3 and up.
How: Just come and create. While supplies last.
Cost: Event is free but purchase of supplies may be required.

Saturday, April 21 - The Music Train Family Concert: Raising Cain

The Music Train (Family Concert Series) produces family friendly shows at an affordable price.  Great music is great music no matter what your age! Great music is great music no matter what your age! The Music Train has put together an amazing line up of Colorado bands and artists showcasing Jazz, Rock, Latin, African, Bluegrass and more. Journey, Michael Jackson, Tommy Two Tone, Madonna, Poison, Katrina and The Waves and more. Get your neon and pull up the leg warmers. Dress it up and bring out the whole family for a great throw back with Raising Cain! Recently named #1 Variety Band in the Country for 2011 by Gigmasters. Come see Ms. Anya rockin’ it out!
Where: The D'Note in Olde Town Arvada 7519 Grandview Ave, Arvada, Co 80002
When: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Due to very crowded and sold out shows last season we have begun advance ticket sales. You can buy online or at the door.Check HERE for all the details!
Cost: $7/adult;$3/kids;Free/1 and under
For more info: This is one of the most fun events around for families. It's been written up by the Denver Post, Ain't No Mom Jeans and has become a staple for the NW Denver/Suburbs community.  Everyone loves it.Because great music is great music no matter what your age!

Sunday, April 22 - 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 - 5:00 PM
Who: All Colorado residents
How: Just show your Colorado ID
Cost: FREE!!
For more info: www.botanicgardens.org

Sunday, April 22 - FREE Day at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Enjoy all the wonder and learning that the Denver Museum of Nature and Science has to offer, courtesy of the SCFD.
Where: The Museum is located in City Park, approximately three miles east of downtown Denver, at the intersection of Montview and Colorado Boulevards.
When: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: All Colorado residents.
How: Just show you Colorado ID
Cost: FREE!!
For more info: www.dmns.org

Sunday, April 22 - Family Fun Forum

Introduce your family to the joy of theatre through an interactive drama-based skills hunt at The Denver Center for the Performing Arts. All members of your group may act out dramatic Shakespearean scenes, learn hip hop, swing from a flying trapeze — and earn tokens redeemable for prizes along the way (activities may vary). 
Where: Robert and Judi Newman Center for Theatre Education, 1101 13th St., Denver (corner of 13th and Arapahoe Streets) across the street from the Performing Arts Complex
When: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: Children must be accompanied by an adult. Appropriate for families with children ages 3-10.
Cost: FREE!

Sunday, April 22 - Earth Day with the Audobon Society

Learn how you can help take care of the environment, and make crafts out of recycled art!
Where: Audobon Center at Chatfield
 9308 South Wadsworth Blvd., Littleton, Colorado 80128  
When: 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come join the fun
Cost: FREE

Sunday, April 22 - Earth Day Tote Make-It Take-It

Decorate a trendy tote for Earth Day.
Where: Your local Michael's Craft Store
When: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 3 and up.
How: Just come and create. While supplies last.
Cost: Event is free but purchase of tote is required

Sunday, April 22 - 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!

Tuesday, April 24 - Kids Hour

Get your children involved in nature! Bring your kids to the park for fun activities, stories, and/or short nature hikes.    
Where: Roxborough State Park
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Ages: for 5 and younger accompanied by an adult
How: Please call for more information and to register. Registration required 24 hours prior. Call 303- 973-3959.
Cost: Programs are free, however, please remember that all vehicles entering the park must purchase a $7.00 daily pass or display a valid annual pass.

Tuesday, April 24 - Father Son Sports Trivia

Join us for an hour of Father Son Sports Trivia! We will have fun prizes and trivia questions that will keep you on your toes!
Where: Chick-fil-A at Jefferson Village
9976 W. Remmingtion Place (Kipling and C470)
Littleton, CO
When: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come have fun with us!
Cost: Event is FREE!

Thursday, April 26 - Money Matters Class - Parent and Student Night

Parents will participate in a class called "Talking with your Kids about Money" while students learn the importance of saving Young Americans offers a wide range of exciting Money Matters Saturday Classes.  These  classes are age appropriate, include hands-on activities, and require advance registration below.
The best thing about our Money Matters classes is that you will earn a $5 Bonus Bucks Certificate for attending the class!  After class you can take that certificate to the bank and deposit it into your account - or use it to open a savings account.  We're talking free money into your savings. 
Where: Classes are at our Denver facility: 3550 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado
When: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Parents and kids
How: All classes require advanced registration, as they fill-up!  Please complete the form online HERE. Classes without an adequate number of participants may be canceled and you will be notified. Classes are FREE, but space is limited.
Cost: FREE

Teen Scene:


Saturday, April 21 - Teen Time Duck Tape Creations

 Learn how to make some cool stuff out of duct tape!  All materials provided. 
Where: Bemis Public 6014 S. Datura St.
Littleton, CO 80120Library
When: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Teens
Cost: FREE

Plan Ahead:


April 27th through May 2nd

Friday, April 27 - Check Your Smoke and CO Detectors

This is a monthly reminder to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly and that the batteries do not need replacing.
Where: Your house
When: n/a
Who: Everyone
How: Follow your smoke and co detectors manufacturers guidelines for testing.
Cost: FREE
For more info: Did you know that you can request low cost smoke and carbon monoxide detectors from West Metro Fire Protection District?  Click HERE for more info

Friday, April 27 through Sunday, April 29 - Avery Park Children's Consignment Sale

Avery Park Children’s Consignment Sale is a 3-day event that takes place 2x a year in the Spring and Fall. We sell your children’s brand name, high-quality items and you get 70%! Avery Park offers the best return in the consignment event business. All of our items are in “excellent” condition and sell at a great price, making it an incredible shopping opportunity. Sellers get 70% and can earn up to 80% by volunteering! Shoppers find excellent quality children’s clothing and gear for a fraction of retail prices! Volunteers Shop First!
Where: Spring Sale 2012 , located at Crossroads Church of Denver, 9705 W 50th Ave Wheat Ridge CO 80033 (just NE of 1-70 and Kipling)
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Mom's of children-Newborn to 14 yrs old with clothing, gear and books to sell! Make money on your children's excellent quality items and find great deals for spring and summer!
How: Visit www.averyparkconsignment.com and learn how to consign, volunteer and shop with us
Cost:
  No admission fee

Friday, April 27 - Friday Night Campfire - Native American Tales

Roast marshmallows, enjoy storytellers and naturalist entertainment and delight in a flickering campfire right in the heart of Littleton.  Lawn seating and shelter are available if weather is inclement.

April:  Native American tales:  Enjoy stories from several different native american traditions told by firelight.
Where: South Platte Park

3000 W Carson Dr, Littleton, CO 80120 
When: 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Register online HERE
Cost: Non-District Price:$9.00
District Price:$6.00
Family (District, same address or surname):$17.00
Family (Same address or surname):$24.00
Family member:$0.00
Youth Dist:$5.00
Youth Non Dist:$7.00

Saturday, April 28 - Lowes Build and Grow Clinic

Terrarium

Spring is here and it’s time to start gardening! Your child will love learning about plants and watching them grow with this great Terrarium kit
Where: All local Lowes Home Improvement Stores
When: 10:00 AM
Who: For kids 3 years and up
How: You can register online at www.lowesbuildandgrow.com
Cost: FREE
For more info: Each participant also receives a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certificate of merit.

Saturday, April 28 - Money Matters Class - On My Own: Budgeting Basics

Students are given the opportunity to explore what it takes to create a personal budget. Young Americans offers a wide range of exciting Money Matters Saturday Classes.  These  classes are age appropriate, include hands-on activities, and require advance registration below.
The best thing about our Money Matters classes is that you will earn a $5 Bonus Bucks Certificate for attending the class!  After class you can take that certificate to the bank and deposit it into your account - or use it to open a savings account.  We're talking free money into your savings. 
Where: Classes are at our Denver facility: 3550 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 12+
How: All classes require advanced registration, as they fill-up!  Please complete the form online HERE. Classes without an adequate number of participants may be canceled and you will be notified. Classes are FREE, but space is limited.
Cost: FREE

Saturday, April 28 - Roxy Puppet Theater

Join the Puppet Players for wild and wacky tales of Roxborough wildlife.    
Where: Roxborough State Park
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Ages: 10 years and younger, accompanied by an adult.
How: Please call for more information and to register. Registration required 24 hours prior. Call 303- 973-3959.
Cost: Programs are free, however, please remember that all vehicles entering the park must purchase a $7.00 daily pass or display a valid annual pass.

Saturday, April 28 - 2nd Annual Child Safety Fair

Children will have an opportunity to meet police officers, fire fighters, and paramedics and check out emergency vehicles. The fun continues with face painting, a jumping castle, and refreshments.  There will be traffic safety and crime prevention information as well as child ID kits available, all presented in both English and Spanish.

Children who bring their bicycles will be fitted for a bicycle helmet that they get to keep. They then have an opportunity to participate in a bike rodeo to learn bicycle safety. Wheat Ridge Cyclery will be conducting free bicycle safety inspections. There will also be a drawing to give away two children’s bicycles that were donated by the Wheat Ridge FOP.
Where: Wheat Ridge 5-8 (formerly Wheat Ridge Middle School) 7101 W 38th Ave
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
When: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come on down.
Cost: FREE
For more info: Parents are encouraged to bring their vehicles and visit the licensed car seat inspectors to make sure car seats are safe and properly installed. Replacement car seats will be available for a donation as long as they last.

Saturday, April 28 - Mother Daughter Tea Party

Monet's Garden Par"tea" Springtime at Bemis is all about flowers, birds, dragonflies, bees, butterflies, and the annual Mother-Daughter Tea Party. Plan to wear your garden party dresses and flutter over for stories, a craft, tea and sweets. 
Where: Bemis Library
6014 S. Datura St.
Littleton, CO 80120
When: 2:00 PM
Who: For girls in grades K-5 and their Mothers.
How: To join us in our handcrafted garden setting please make a reservation beginning April 7th at 303.795.3961 or at the Children's Desk.
Cost: FREE
For more info: For more information, contact Val Fetters, Children's Services, at 303-795-3961.

Sunday, April 29 - Grandparents & Grandkids Forest Stroll

Bring your grandchildren and enjoy this leisurely naturalist-guided adventure through the ponderose pine forest.  Learn about Abert's squirrels, pygmy nuthatches and others during this engaging, interactive program.
Where: 910 Colorow Road
Golden, 80401
When: 1:00 PM
Who: All ages.
How: Register online HERE
Cost: FREE

Tuesday, May 1 - Kids Hour

Get your children involved in nature! Bring your kids to the park for fun activities, stories, and/or short nature hikes.    
Where: Roxborough State Park
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Ages: for 5 and younger accompanied by an adult
How: Please call for more information and to register. Registration required 24 hours prior. Call 303- 973-3959.
Cost: Programs are free, however, please remember that all vehicles entering the park must purchase a $7.00 daily pass or display a valid annual pass.

Tuesday, May 1 - Target Tuesday Night at the Children's Museum

Families can play for FREE the first Tuesday of each month from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Target is committed to giving back to the communities where their guests and team members live and work.

Through their generous sponsorship of the Children’s Museum of Denver, families can play for FREE the first Tuesday of each month
Where: The Children's Museum 2121 Children’s Museum Drive
Denver, CO 80211
When: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just come and play!
Cost: FREE!
For more info: www.mychildsmuseum.org

Wednesday, May 2 - Little Fledglings Preschool Nature Hour

Explore a theme each month with stories, songs, crafts, and activities exploring wildlife and the natural world. This program introduces science skills and encourages active outdoor play. Birds, Beaks, & Nests–Where do birds live? How do they make their homes? And find out why birds’ beaks have specific shapes
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: For Children ages 3-6 (and parent/guardians, too!)
Cost: Friends Members: $5 per child and their adult; $2 each additional child
Non-members: $8 per child and their adult; $4 each additional child
For more info: www.denveraudobon.org

Wednesday, May 2 - Little Fledglings Preschool Nature Hour

Explore a theme each month with stories, songs, crafts, and activities exploring wildlife and the natural world. This program introduces science skills and encourages active outdoor play. Birds, Beaks, & Nests–Where do birds live? How do they make their homes? And find out why birds’ beaks have specific shapes
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: For Children ages 3-6 (and parent/guardians, too!)
Cost: Friends Members: $5 per child and their adult; $2 each additional child
Non-members: $8 per child and their adult; $4 each additional child
For more info: www.denveraudobon.org

2012 Summer Camp Guide


We are so happy to present our 2012 Summer Camp Directory! Make sure to check out each of the great camps that we have featured. Summer is always fun but the camps in our Camp Guide are guaranteed to make your kids summer even more fun!!

Our featured camps:

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Bethlehem Lutheran Summer Camp

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Elite Dance Academy Summer Camps

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YMCA of Metro Denver Summer Camps

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CYT Denver Theatre Summer Camps

Denver Equestrian Summer Camp

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Renaissance Adventures Summer Camps

Make sure to check out our extensive list of summer camps in Lakewood ...


Great Places To Go With Your Kids Around Town


Museums, Rec Centers, Animal Adventures and More!

This article is a work in progress, we will be continuing to add links.  If you know of any great places we should add please let me know.

We live in an amazing city, with an amazing amount of places to have fun with our children.  This is by no means a complete list of places in the metro area but it is a complete list of great places in Lakewood, Littleton, Golden & Wheat Ridge as well some great spots in the Denver area.

Museums and Historical Sites
Buffalo Bill ...


Local Weekly Storytimes


A Comprehensive List of All Of The Great Local Places to Hear Great Stories

Storytimes

Monday
Belmar Library - Toddlers - 10 a.m.
Lakewood Library - Toddlers - 10:30 a.m.
Belmar Library - All ages - 10:45 a.m.
Lakewood Library - Preschoolers - 11 a.m.
Golden Library - All ages - 3:30 p.m.

Tuesday
Evergreen Library - Toddlers - 10:30 a.m.
Lakewood Library - Baby Time - 10:30 a.m.
Wheat Ridge Library - All ages - 10:30 a.m.
Lakewood Library - Toddlers - 11 a.m.
Lakewood Library - Preschoolers - 11:30 a.m.
Evergreen Library - Baby Time - 11:15 a.m.
Belmar Library - Preschoolers - 1:30 p.m ...


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 ...


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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