Peoria
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Our Summer 2013 Bucket List
And a FREE Printable so you can create yours!
My boys are entering into the the final stretch of school days this week and we are all looking forward to summer days filled with both uptime and downtime.
To keep a little bit of "structure" in our days and to help combat the cries of "I'm bored," we've put together our Summer 2013 Bucket List -- all the things we want to do, see, make and/or experience this summer. Granted, this is just the short list, but it's enough to get us going!
Here's how ...
To keep a little bit of "structure" in our days and to help combat the cries of "I'm bored," we've put together our Summer 2013 Bucket List -- all the things we want to do, see, make and/or experience this summer. Granted, this is just the short list, but it's enough to get us going!
Here's how ...
( Comments: 3)
Gutter Garden
Make it kid friendly!
Does your kid LOVE to garden? Play in the dirt? How about learn new things? What about eating their veggies? Well if you said YES to at least one of those things, you might be looking at your next project and HOPEFULLY add "YES!" to eating their veggies!
Kids tend to be MUCH more interested in eating their veggies, or at least TRYING them, if they had a HAND in growing them, themselves!
We made a Gutter Garden on our fence this weekend. It was easy, QUICK and looks super ...
( Comments: 1)
Gel Boards
Macaroni Made
I saw this awesome idea on Pinterest and it inspired me to try my own take on it! My kids love it and it was so easy and fun to make!
Supplies:
Hair gel (cheap stuff from the a dollar store)
Glitter
Duct tape
Cardboard
Clear plastic bag
Step 1: Measure approximately 5-6 ounces of hair gel and mix in as much glitter as you want!
Step 2: Pour mixture into a clear food storage bag and get as much air out as possible and seal bag.
Step 3: Measure ...
Does Your Family Have a Tornado Plan?
Three steps to keeping your family safe in severe weather
Prompted by this week's news from Oklahoma, I'm reviewing our family's preparation plan for severe weather. It's one of those things that I think about doing each year, but never actually get around to completing. But the news lately has been a huge wake up call. Tornados can strike in the blink of an eye, but a few minutes of up front preparation and communication with your family can make all the difference.
In fact, the Central Illinois Chapter of the American Red Cross offers tips ...
In fact, the Central Illinois Chapter of the American Red Cross offers tips ...
Are you ready for summer fun?
Registration for camps and activities at area venues now open!
It won't be long until the final school bell rings, signifying the start of summer. How will you keep your kids busy? Our area venues offer lots of options for daily activities sure to meet the interests of all kids and to keep boredom at bay, at least for a few weeks!
Peoria Park District Camps
Peoria Park District Camps
Whether your child is destined for the stage, wants to talk to the animals or simply wants to hang out on land or in the water, the Peoria Park District offers a wide ...
May 23rd through May 28th
Thursday, May 23 - Story Time at Apple's Bakery
Join Communication Junction for a morning full of signing, books, coffee and snacks! Bring your little one to Apple's Bakery and join in the fun! Grab a cup of joe and sit back and enjoy some great stories, songs, bubbles and signs!
Where: Apple's Bakery, located at 8412 North Knoxville Avenue in Peoria.When: 9:15 AMWho: All ages welcome!How: See you there!Cost: $5/family. Each paying family will receive a 10% off coupon for purchases over $5 from Apples Bakery, every time you shop!
Saturday, May 25 - Family Recreation 101
Come out to Camp Wokanda with the entire family! Meet us in the OA Lodge to gather ingredients for a campfire lunch and enjoy the day while we cook it for you! Experience the camp with guided nature hikes, open fishing, basic canoe skills instruction and pond studies at the lake’s edge. At your family’s leisure, you can swing up to the Lodge, grab a bite to eat and listen to live music. The scheduled programs will end at 2 p.m., but this does not mean you have to leave! Camp Wokanda has camping available in rustic cabins or primitive tent sites. Sites fill up fast, so reserve yours today!
Where: Camp Wokanda, located at 620 E Boy Scout Rd. in Chillicothe.When: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PMWho: Great family event!How: Sites fill up fast; if you would like to reserve a spot for your family, please contact us at (309) 579-2157!Cost: $3/person ($25 max/family)
Tuesday, May 28 - Tuesday's are FREE at Fondulac Farm Park
Fon du Lac Farm Park offers a unique summer experience for your family. Ever wondered what 1920’s farm life was like on a Central Illinois farm? The six acre park gives you a first hand peek! Feed the animals, play in the barn and lounge near one of three ponds. Farm Park also includes a country kitchen museum, one room schoolhouse and silo slide. Concessions and a gift shop are available so you can make a day of it!
Where: Fondulac Farm Park, located at 305 Neumann Dr. in East Peoria.When: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PMWho: All agesHow: Just stop by!Cost: FREE on Tuesdays
May 23rd through May 29th
Thursday, May 23 - Baby Steps at Pekin Public Library
An educational playtime for infants & caregivers.
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AMWho: Appropriate for birth to 18 months old.How: For more information, or to register your child for the program, please call 347-7111 ext. 3.Cost: FREE
Thursday, May 23 - Tadpoles Storytime - North Branch
If you’re looking for a storytime that is just right for your 2 or 3 year-old, visit the library for stories, songs, activities and easy crafts that are a perfect fit for little ones who are too big for the baby storytime but not quite ready for the preschool storytime.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AMWho: Children ages 2 – 3 years and their caregivers are welcome.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Thursday, May 23 - Visit Your Local Fire Station
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a fire fighter or what the inside of a fire station looks like? Go behind the scenes of the life of a fire fighter and receive some safety training. Meet up with us at Station 16 on Northmoor Road to get a personal tour led by fire fighters.
Where: Fire Station 16 on Northmoor RoadWhen: 4:00 PM - 4:45 PMWho: All ages welcome.How: The fire house is small so space is limited. Call (309) 497-2200 to reserve your spot.Cost: FREE
Thursday, May 23 - Hidden Dangers of Vaccination: Educational Workshop for Parents
Did you know that there are HARMFUL chemicals in your child's vaccination? Learn How Vaccinations may permanently damage your child's immune system. Learn your legal rights and responsibilities as a parent in regards to childhood vaccinations. Andrea Schnowske DC will expose some myths about vaccination and what research is showing regarding some harmful additives in the vaccinations. She'll also discuss alternative options for vaccination and legal requirements for parents who decide to choose alternative vaccination options or those that decide not to vaccinate their child.
Where: AlignLife of Peoria, located at 4812 N Sheridan Rd. in Peoria.When: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PMWho: All parents welcome!How: Must RSVP as seating is limited. Please call (309)689-6200 to reserve your seat.Cost: $5 donation per family at the door. 100% of donations will forwarded to Health Missions, a local non-profit organization interested in natural health care research, community health education, and mission trips.
Thursday, May 23 - Dewey Dragon Book Group K-1
Dewey the Dragon is fired up about reading! He wants children K-1st grades to join him for this monthly book group. We will enjoy books and stories together. There will be arts and crafts, activities, and some cooking experiences!
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 6:30 PM - 7:15 PMWho: Grades K-1How: Please register for this book group at the Youth Services Desk or call (309) 347-7111 ext.3.Cost: FREE
Friday, May 24 - Motor Mites
This open gym for ages 1-5 is a great way to let little ones with lots of energy enjoy the fun of playing freely with scooters, balls, hula hoops, tumbling equipment, and more. It’s a great way for children and parents to socialize. Parents must attend. Groups are welcome at Motor Mites!
Where: The Franciscan Recreation Complex, located at 908 N. Sterling Ave. in West Peoria.When: 9:15 AM (M-W-F mornings from 9:15-11:15 a.m. Also Friday afternoons from 1-3 p.m.)Who: Ages 1-5 and a parentHow: No registration required.Cost: $2 per visit or $20 for a 12-visit pass
Friday, May 24 - Busy Bees Storytime - North Branch
Join us for an all-ages storytime in the North Branch Beehive.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 10:15 AM - 10:45 AMWho: All ages welcome.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Friday, May 24 - Owlet Storytime
Bring your little owls to a storytime for all ages featuring fingerplays, songs, and easy crafts. While supplies last.
Where: Peoria Public Library - Lakeview Branch, located at 1137 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AMWho: Little ones under age 5.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Friday, May 24 - Busy Bees Storytime - North Branch
Join us for an all-ages storytime in the North Branch Beehive.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 1:00 PM - 1:30 PMWho: All ages welcome.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Friday, May 24 - Fired UP! - Rubbing Alcohol Technique
Use rubbing alcohol to paint an abstract watercolor effect on flat pottery.
Where: Fired UP!, located at 4532 N. Prospect Road in Peoria Heights.When: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PMWho: Recommended for ages 6 and upHow: Please call (309) 685-8906 to make reservations.Cost: $8/painter plus the price of your pottery (plates, tiles, platters suggested)
Saturday, May 25 - Migratory Bird Walk for Kids
Discover the colorful sights and sounds of spring birds on this guided hike for kids at the Nature Center.
Where: Forest Park Nature Center, located at 5809 Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights.When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AMWho:Ages 6-12. Parents, guardians, and other family members are welcome too. Feel free to bring binoculars.How: No registration required.Cost: Donations requested.
Saturday, May 25 - Junior Explorers - May the Flowers be with You
Junior Explorers combines nature, learning, friends, and fun into a monthly class hosted by a park Naturalist.
Where: Wildlife Prairie State Park, located at 3826 N. Taylor Road in Hanna City.When: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PMWho: Ages 5-7. Parents may choose to stay with the child, applicable admission rates apply.How: Advanced registration and payment is required. Call (309) 676-0998 x 6758 or email [email protected]Cost: $10 for nonmembers plus applicable park admission / $8 for members
Saturday, May 25 - Gourd Wren House Workshop
Local artist Bonnie Cox will lead you in creating a beautiful wren house out of natural materials, just in time for the wren nesting season! Materials will be provided. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Where: Forest Park Nature Center, located at 5809 Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights.When: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PMWho: Ages 10 and up.How:For more information or to register, click HERE.Cost: Fee: $6 ($5/CORE member)
Saturday, May 25 - Northmoor Observatory Open for Public Viewing
Northmoor Observatory provides excellent views of stars, planets, and our moon. It was the first observatory in Illinois to offer public viewing, and the PAS continues to provide this service to the community today. The Northmoor Observatory will be open for free public viewing dusk to 11 p.m. every cloudless Saturday from May 18 through October 19.
Where: Northmoor Observatory is located within the city of Peoria at the Leo Donovan Golf Course.When: 7:30 PM - 11:00 PM (Observatory opens at dusk)Who: All ages!How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Sunday, May 26 - Pioneer Days - Heirloom Gardening
Step back in time and experience 19th century life in rural Peoria County at Sommer Park's Pioneer Days--held the last Sunday of each month, May through October. Activities at the Homestead, Barn, Blacksmith Shop and Schoolhouse may include: Laundry, Gardening, Woodworking, Blacksmithing, Candle Making, Hands-on Children's Activities.
Where: Sommer Park, located at 6329 Koerner Road in Edwards.When: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PMWho: Best for ages 4 and up.How: No registration required.Cost: $2.25/person
Monday, May 27 - IVS Kids Running Series
Get Ready to Run!!! The IVS kids series offers area children a fun, non-competitive introduction to the sport of running. The emphasis is on participation, complete with finish line, individual times, finishing ribbons and refreshments; Cookies & juice provided by Proctor Hospital. Everyone’s a winner just by finishing. The series is held weekly on Monday evenings through June 24 on the Proctor Hospital Fitness Path. Runners may choose to run 1⁄4 mi, 1⁄2 mi, or 1 mile and are free to run as many times as they want. Children who run 3 or more Mondays in a single month will earn a special reward from the Striders – a T-Shirt, Hat or other signature item.
Where: Proctor Hospital Fitness PathWhen: 5:30 PM (Registration begins at 5:30 p.m.; Stretching begins at 5:50 p.m.; Running begins at 6 p.m.)Who: All Kids ages 12 and under are eligible to participate. No minimum age requirement. Little ones welcome! Runners are grouped together by age to ensure safety and compatibility.How: Sign up when you arrive.Cost: Fee is $2.00 weekly per runner or $5.00 for families of 3 or more.For more info: Visit the Illinois Valley Striders website.
Tuesday, May 28 - Toddler Time Tuesday at The Art Garage
Enjoy a short story and an art project! This week we'll do Skyscraper Art, featuring the story HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON.
Where:The Art Garage, located at 929 N. Sheridan Rd. in Peoria.When: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AMWho: Suggested age 2-5 yrs old. Supervising adult must remain present, please.How: Please RSVP in advance by calling (309) 231-2511.Cost: $5/chiid
Tuesday, May 28 - Terrific Tattletale Tuesday Storytime - Lincoln Branch
Stories, songs, and crafts.
Where: The Lincoln Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 1312 W. Lincoln Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AMWho: Ages 3-6How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Tuesday, May 28 through Wednesday, May 29 - Knee High Naturalists - Working on the Railroad
Gather up the 2 - 4 year old in your life and bring them to the Park for a curriculum designed especially for them! This hands-on, learning program revolves around a main, nature topic and incorporates story-time, crafts, hikes, nature journals, and refreshments.
Where: Wildlife Prairie State Park, located at 3826 N. Taylor Road in Hanna City.When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (An identical program is offered on both Tuesday and Wednesday. Please choose one session.)Who: Ages 2-4How: Advance payment and registration for either Tuesday or Wednesday is required. (Please choose only one session per month.) Call (309) 676-0998 x 6758.Cost: $9/child plus applicable General Admission, $7/Park Members
Tuesday, May 28 - Pre-school storytime at Pekin Public Library
Stories, songs, activities, and a craft for children ages 3-5. This week's theme: Picnic!
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AMWho: For children ages 3-5.How: No registration required.Cost: FREE
Tuesday, May 28 - Origami
Flowers, bugs and a basket!
Where: Chillicothe Public Library, located at 430 N. Bradley Ave. in ChillicotheWhen: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PMWho: All agesHow: No registration required.Cost: FREE
Tuesday, May 28 - Challenge Origami
Trickier models for more experienced folders - The Electra modular figure.
Where: Chillicothe Public Library, located at 430 N. Bradley Ave. in Chillicothe.When: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PMWho: All agesHow: No registration required.Cost: FREE
Wednesday, May 29 - Fun Time Storytime – McClure Branch
Fun stories and songs for children ages 3 to 6.
Where: The McClure Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 315 W. McClure Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AMWho: Best for preschoolers, ages 3 to 6.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Wednesday, May 29 - Tiny Tots Nature Stroll
Join us at the Nature Center as we explore some of the sights and sounds of nature during this stroll designed especially for you and your little ones. Trails will be stroller accessible, although we may encounter a few bumps along the way! PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Where: Forest Park Nature Center, located at 5809 Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights.When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AMWho: Parents/caregivers and their 3-5 year olds.How: Call Forest Park Nature Center at 686-3360 for more details and to register or click here for online registration.Cost: $3/child
Wednesday, May 29 - Toddler Time at Pekin Public Library
Enjoy stories, activities and interactive play with children of the same age. This week's theme: Down on the Farm.
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AMWho: For toddlers ages 18-36 months and their parent or caregiver.How: No registration needed.Cost: FREE
Wednesday, May 29 - Little Sprouts Storytime - North Branch
Have you been wanting to spend some special time with your baby but really need to get out of the house and interact with grown-ups too? Here’s your chance to join other moms and babies at a storytime just for little ones ages birth to 18 months. Come join the fun as we sing, bounce, laugh and play with age appropriate songs, fingerplays, rhymes, and simple stories.
Where: The North Branch of the Peoria Public Library, located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AMWho: Ages birth to 18 monthsHow: See you there!Cost: FREE
Wednesday, May 29 - Owlet Storytime
Bring your little owls to a storytime for all ages featuring fingerplays, songs, and easy crafts. While supplies last.
Where: Peoria Public Library - Lakeview Branch, located at 1137 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria.When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AMWho: Little ones under age 5.How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Wednesday, May 29 - Fired UP! - Rubbing Alcohol Technique
Use rubbing alcohol to paint an abstract watercolor effect on flat pottery.
Where: Fired UP!, located at 4532 N. Prospect Road in Peoria Heights.When: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PMWho: Recommended for ages 6 and upHow: Please call (309) 685-8906 to make reservations.Cost: $8/painter plus the price of your pottery (plates, tiles, platters suggested)
Wednesday, May 29 - Reading Rockstars Book Group
Join us for snacks, trivia, and a craft.
Where: Pekin Public Library, located at 301 S. 4th Street in Pekin.When: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PMWho: Grades 4-6.How: Please reserve your spot by calling (309) 347-7111 ext. 3.Cost: FREE
May 31st through June 1st
Friday, May 31 - MOMS Club Lunch at the Park
Are you a mom looking for fun things to do with your kids this summer? Join us for a picnic lunch at Sommer Park North to learn about all the exciting activities MOMS Club does with our kids throughout the year. Our events include: Park Play Dates, Zoo, Wildlife Prairie State Park, Forest Park Nature Center, Bicycle Safety Town, Group tours and many more activities! *Please bring your own lunch!
Where: Sommer Park North, located at 6600 N. Basket Oak Dr. in Edwards.When: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PMWho: MOMS Club of Peoria, IL is for moms and kidsHow: E-mail [email protected] or visit them online for more information.Cost: FREE
Saturday, June 1 - Well Aware Open House at Little Friends Learning Center
All families are invited to our Well Aware Open House! Join us to learn how Bright Horizons helps children build the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits. Your family will: • Learn more about our Well Aware curriculum and health and safety practices • Participate in Well Aware-themed activities with your child • Take part in our ‘Movement Matters Family Fitness Challenge’ • Enjoy healthy snacks and refreshments • Spend time with other families at our newly renovated center.
Where: Little Friends Learning Center, located at 1715 West Alta Road in Peoria.When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PMWho: Families welcome!How: See you there!Cost: FREE
Saturday, June 1 - Storytime at Fired UP!
Listen to the story Do Princesses Wear Hiking Books? by Carmela LaVigna Coyle and paint a dinner plate outlined with a scene from the book.
Where: Fired UP!, located at 4532 N. Prospect Road in Peoria Heights.When: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PMWho: Recommended for ages 5 and up, but all ages are welcomeHow: Please call (309) 685-8906 to make reservations.Cost: $16/child
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