Fun 4 Kids in Buffalo

IHOP National Pancake Day Celebration

2012-02-22T19:42:00.003-05:00

If you are signed up for the FREE event newsletter, you already have this on your calendar. And yes, in our family this would be considered an "event"! Pancakes and syrup equals 3 sticky, happy kids!

Here are the details from the IHOP Facebook page:

On February 28, 2012, guests from around the country are invited to celebrate National Pancake Day at IHOP and enjoy a free short stack of Buttermilk pancakes.* In return for the free pancakes, guests are asked to consider leaving a donation for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals© and other designated local charities.

*Do you want March's FREE events delivered to your inbox by the end of February? Contact me with your email address and subject line "newsletter".

Celebrate the Leap Year at Monkey See Monkey Do

2012-02-22T13:26:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure if there is still space available at this event on February 29, but please call over to register (204-8417) if you think your kids might be interested.

I was happy to see this Leap Year event from Monkey See, Monkey Do! Not just because it is FREE but also because it happens after school.

We’ll read the story of Neil Armstrong’s One Giant Leap, craft an astronaut, and get leaping by doing some fun astronaut training. Snack provided. Ages 3 and up. Event takes place from 4-4:45pm.

We plan to be there! Monkey See Monkey Do does a fantastic job with all the children's programs they offer and we always look forward to visiting the bookstore!

FYI, there is another FREE program March 2 from 10-10:45am. Celebrate Dr. Seuss Birthday and become friends with The Lorax! Register in advance.

February Break Activities

2012-02-19T20:38:00.003-05:00

These are just a few suggestions for February break. Obviously, there are many more activities for the kids this week but I wanted to highlight a few events. You can also check the Northtowns, Southtowns or FREE tabs for more ideas.

ONGOING DAILY ACTIVITIES between February 20-25th:

Explore and More "Around Town" theme for the week. Includes topics such as eating locally, firefighters and police, constructions and more. Get the details at the Explore and More calendar. ($)

East Aurora's Winterfest Week (some things are free)

Eastern Hills Mall Summer in February (the 18th-26th) FREE

Rolly Pollies Special Open Play Times at both locations (East Amherst and Orchard Park) Feb. 20 - Feb.24: 10:00 - 11:00 AM and 11:00 - 12:00 PM at both locations. Special Open Play is an hour of supervised free play for children ages 9 and under. Special Open Play is always open to members and non-members. The cost is $12.00 per child per hour. Cash or check only please. Please call 689-6151 in East Amherst or 662-7424 in Orchard Park today to reserve your spot!

Just Fun in Hamburg offers this Facebook special from 2/20-2/24: Buy-One-Get-One FREE of the same Just Fun attraction. You just have to say that you saw this Special on Facebook.

Lakeview Community Church: Break Away, Feb 21-24th, 9:30 am until 12 noon. Arctic VBS style fun for pre k to 5th grade! Check out the FB page for more info! FREE

DAILY ACTIVITY SUGGESTIONS: (I highlighted the most interesting library activities - some require registration. I have also included the most searched activities on the website)

FEBRUARY 18th:

Basics of Photography Children's Workshop at the Brighton Place Library in Tonawanda. For ages 9-14 years, space is very limited, register now!
Lauren Tent, Educational Director from CEPA Gallery will be on hand to conduct a workshop for children on the basics of photography. The workshop will cover subjects, lighting and color. Children will receive a hands on experience on the role of a photographer is. There are two workshops- the first at 10:00 a.m. and the second starting at 11:15 a.m. Space is limited to 12 children per workshop so registration in advance is required.

21st Annual Winter Train and Toy Show from 10am-5pm at the event center on the Fairgrounds. Over 350 Tables filled with toy trains and collectibles, fun for the whole family. Adult tickets are $7 children 12 and under are free.

Paul the Amazing Artist at the Orchard Park Library: This event begins at 1:00 PM and it is a Family Event for all ages. Come and have fun with Paul the Amazing Artist. Balloon art, face painting and a whole lot more.

See many more library activities on the 18th here.

The Burchfield Nature and Art's Center First Annual Winterfest from 10am-7pm
••Music & play tent for the children •Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides through the park •Breakfast with the Birds •Ice carving •Woodworkers
•Quilters •Recycle workshop •Free activities for children & families •Animals from Messinger Woods •Hill for small ones to sled down •Snowman contest

Riviera Theatre Family Film Series Arthur Christmas (PG) Begins at 11am cost is $2.

Snowbirds at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve at 10:30am Learn tips for watching birds in winter, and take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count. For adults and children age 8 and older. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up.

FEBRUARY 19th:

BCBS of WNY Snowman Making Challenge at Chestnut Ridge Park from noon-3pm. (no snow needed!)

21st Annual Winter Train and Toy Show from 10am-4pm at the event center on the Fairgrounds. Over 350 Tables filled with toy trains and collectibles, fun for the whole family. Adult tickets are $7 and children 12 and under are free.

FEBRUARY 20th:

Dollar Day at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. Kids 3 and under are FREE. FYI, this is a kid-friendly activity believe it or not!

Head over to Rotary Rink in downtown Buffalo for some outdoor ice skating. Bring your own skates or rent them for $2 (children) and $3 (adults). Or visit one of several other outdoor skating rinks.

Visit the Buffalo Museum of Science - get a $10 off coupon for NEW family memberships here!

The History Center of Niagara offers a one day class for 7-12 year olds for just $10. It is from 10am-1pm and the theme is Presidential Pets! Get the details and reserve your spot!

FEBRUARY 21st:

Board Game and Craft Day at the Central Library. This event takes place at 1:00 PM - no registration is necessary. Bored? Visit the Kid's Space to play board games and make a craft. Children ages 6 and up. Children 5 and under with caregiver

See more library activities on the 21st here.

Go roller skating! Check out some of these places: Rainbow Rink in North Tonawada, Spinners Rink in West Seneca, Skateland in Lockport and many more.

FEBRUARY 22nd:

Nickel City Reptiles at the Grand Island Library at 2pm. Join us as Jeff Musial and his exotic animals vist the library. Registration is not required. Children under age 6 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information visit the library or call 773-7124.

See more library activities on the 22nd here.

Visit the Kazoo Factory in Eden, NY. Take a FREE self-guided tour. Get more information here.

Visit the Niagara Climbing Center in North Tonawanda!

FEBRUARY 23rd:

Bubblemania at the Lancaster Library at noon. Looking for something fun to do over winter break? Mark your calendars for Bubblemania!!! Children and adults alke will throughly enjoy Mr. Bubble's many talents from bubling, juggling, joking around and just plain fun. Come see bubbles bigger than your head! Entertainment for the entire family. Stop in or call 683-1120 to register.

See more library activities on the 23rd here.

If there's snow, go sledding. Get a list of Fun 4 Kids in Buffalo recommended sledding hills.

Outdoor Adventure Club: Winter Adaptation Walk at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve at 10am. On this guided walk, we will search for animals that are adapted to brave our harsh winters. For children ages 10 and up. Snowshoe rental = $4.00/person; Friends of Reinstein members = $2.00. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up.

FEBRUARY 24th:

Charlie and Checkers at the Tonawanda Library at 2pm. (Visit the Charlie and Checkers website to see what they do!)

Don't Let the Pigeon Come to this Program for ages 6-10 at the Kenmore Branch Library from 3-4pm. During winter break, come in and enjoy a story time based on the hilarious books by Mo Willems! Children will hear stories, make crafts, and play a game. This program is geared toward children ages 6 to 10, and caregivers are welcome to join in. Registration is necessary and space is limited. Call 873-2842 for more information

See more activities at the library on the 24th here.

Family Snow Shoe Hike at Tifft Nature Preserve (snowshoeing is weather permitting - he program takes place with or without snow) Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Visit the Paddock Golf Dome for some fun indoor mini-golf! (Cost is $5)

FEBRUARY 25th:

Hamburg Masters Mini-Golf at the Hamburg Library at 2pm for ages 5-12. Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of playing miniature golf IN THE LIBRARY! Wii games and snacks as well. Space is limited, so register today.

FEBRUARY 26th:

WNY Health Expo from 10am-3pm at the Fairgrounds in Hamburg
Meet local healthcare experts, see live demonstrations, attend seminars, visit the children's area (complete with bounce house and slide) and get free samples at this one-day show. It's your chance to get all your healthcare questions answered in one place.

Mom Review: Britannica Kids US Presidents App

2012-02-18T18:48:00.006-05:00

In honor of Presidents Day Weekend, Britannica Kids US Presidents App, is FREE! Sale ends Monday, February 20th at midnight EST!

I just downloaded this app for iPhone this afternoon. The usual price is $2.99 but you can get it for FREE until Monday, February 20th at midnight EST.

Britannica Kids US Presidents App is a fun and educational app that will take you on a "tour" of the 44 presidents of the United States. For each president you will be able to see a portrait of him, find out who he was married to while in office, his birthday (and where he was born) and a sentence or two of an interesting fact about him.

The app also includes a few extras such as the song Hail to the King, a quiz section and a Did You Know section which includes photos and facts on several topics related to the presidency.

Get this iOS app - it's FREE! And let me tell you, I felt pretty dumb at times as I was going through this app with my Kindergartner tonight!

$20 for an Olan Mills Portrait Package!

2012-02-18T08:19:00.002-05:00

From Groupon: $20 for a Photo-Shoot-and-Prints Package ($100 Value)

This Groupon includes:

*Two poses for groups of any size
*Four natural-color sheets (8"x10" or smaller)
*One enhanced black-and-white or sepia sheet (8"x10" or smaller)
*One 10"x13" montage photo collage
*40% off any additional portrait purchases
*There are no sitting or subject fees. Natural-color sheets 10"x13" are considered two sheets.

Please read the rest of the fine print before purchasing.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for using them.

Kindergarten Chronicles - 12

2012-02-17T06:31:00.000-05:00

Welcome to a "chronicle" of my trip through Kindergarten from a mothers perspective. This is my first time on this trip. If it's the first time for you, I hope you will join me (even if you're an old pro, please read along!) Go here if you missed Kindergarten Chronicles 1-11.

It is now mid-February and we are starting the February break. It does seem a little strange to have a break in mid-February and then again in April. But when you consider that school does not get out until mid/end of June I think I am thankful for this rest time from school. (On the other hand, less breaks equals earlier summer release?) What do I know...I'm just the parent.

Everything has not been coming up roses the last 6 weeks. (I feel I must disclose this to those of you who may think all is well in munchkin land all the time!) A couple of minor behavioral issues at school which have warranted certain school privileges to be taken away (temporarily) plus a note or two sent home from the teacher. Alas, my almost 6 year old is not perfect...

If you remember from previous Kindergarten Chronicles, our son takes the bus to school in the morning and we pick him up in the afternoon. I am thankful that he has made a good friendship on the bus and it is fun for me to hear of these conversations he has with this boy that has befriended him. Sweet little 4th grader that also shares our son's love of all things Star Wars!

Enjoy the February break with your school age children. These wonderful gifts from God are not with us long.

Saturday Fun 2/18/2012

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East Aurora Winterfest Week! (starts this weekend - continues through all of next week!) some events are FREE

TOPS mini cooking class at the Amherst location from 11-11:30am. Register in advance. Cost is $5.

Eastern Hills Mall Summer in February. Cost is FREE

Snowbirds at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve at 10:30am. Learn tips for watching birds in winter, and take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count. For adults and children age 8 and older. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up.

Burchfield Nature and Arts Center 1st Annual Winterfest. Cost is FREE

WNYRHS Train and Toy Show Cost for 12 and under is FREE. All others $7

ETA: Storytelling Saturdays at the Aquarium of Niagara ($)

What are you doing with the kids over February break? Need some ideas? Check out this post!

WNYRHS Winter Train and Toy Show

2012-02-15T22:45:00.001-05:00

The WNYRHS Winter Train and Toy Show is headed your way this weekend, February 18-19 at the Hamburg Fairgrounds Event Center.

The hours are 10am-5pm on Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday. Admission: Adults $7.00, Children under 12 are Free

All Aboard for the 21st Annual WNYRHS Winter Train & Toy Show. Event features over 400 dealer tables filled with operating layouts, Nome's HO & N gauge Layouts, WNY Model Engineer's O Gauge Layout, WNY Garden Railway G scale Layout, the Niagara Frontier Live Steamers & more. Great deals on all gauges Model Trains, Railroad Collectibles, Books, Videos, Toys, Dolls and Miniatures. Proceeds benefit the preservation & restoration projects of the WNY Railway Historical Society.

Homemade Graham Crackers

2012-02-15T21:43:00.000-05:00

After last week's homemade marshmallows experiment, I thought it would be fun to try out these homemade graham crackers.

I used this graham cracker recipe from Smitten Kitchen and followed it pretty closely. Well, I didn't really use her exact measurement on the size of the crackers, I just eye-balled it. And, I didn't mess around with all the special decorating (as I'm sure you can tell from the picture).

There are a handful of ingredients - most of which you may likely have on hand. Don't get freaked out by all the instructions in the recipe. (Personally, at this time of my life, when a recipe goes past one page I don't use it!)

The main thing you need to know is if you want to do this in one day this recipe is going to take some time. The mixing and baking is quick but the recipe does call for quite a bit of time chilling in the refrigerator. Plus, the time it will take to roll out the dough and cut it to make the cracker shapes.

Now, if you're still reading, taking the time to do this is totally worth it! I have only had homemade graham crackers one other time in my life and frankly, I was not impressed. These were so yummy - I couldn't believe it. Once they cooled off we just couldn't stop eating them. The kids kept asking for "just one more!"

Tomorrow night we are serving up some S'mores for the kids. (We already had ours tonight...ok, who am I kidding? We're going to have more tomorrow night!)

The Burchfield Nature and Art Center First Annual Winterfest

2012-02-15T21:19:00.001-05:00

Another FREE, fun event happening this weekend! The Burchfield Nature and Art Center hosts their First Annual Winterfest on Saturday, February 18th, 2012!

Check out all the free things to do at this years Winterfest:

A kids tent with many activities

The owls of Messinger Woods and kids can make their own owls using pinecones

Face Painting

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides and so much more!

This event takes place Saturday from 10am-5pm - don't miss it!

East Aurora's Winterfest Week

2012-02-15T10:20:00.001-05:00

ETA: The East Aurora, NY Facebook page posted the schedule for Winterfest 2012 here. It is in a much easier to read format than the copy and paste below.

A great line-up of events happening February 16-25th over at East Aurora's Winterfest Week! Unfortunately, the only schedule I could find on the town's website is in a Word Document so forgive me for just up and copying the entire schedule into this post. I figured this was the easiest way for everyone to see it!

TOWN OF AURORA WINTERFEST 2012

Check www.aurorarec.com for details
FEBRUARY 17 - 26

Friday, February 17
6:30 - 8:30 PM Family Swim -EA Middle School pool, 430 Main St. Free of charge. Sponsored by Town of Aurora Recreation
7:00 - 8:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free
7:00 - 9:00 PM Boys & Girls Club Fun Night – open gym, game room & teen room dance, Grades 5-6, $6.00

Saturday, February 18
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Park - Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dawn to Dusk. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
10:00 – 5:00 PM Free Face Painting – Toyloft, 700 Main St
1:00 – 3:00 PM Face Paint Seminar – Learn how to face paint. Toyloft, 700 Main St.
1:00 - 2:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & free
1:00 - 3:00 PM Toilet Bowl Football Game - Hamlin Park, Pick-up football game, Guys 9-12th grade.
7:00 - 8:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free

Sunday, February 19
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Park Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dawn to Dusk. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
1:00 PM Costume Pet Parade – Dress-Up your Pet and come out for our annual costume Pet Parade in East Aurora. Meet in the parking lot in front of Paws in the Pantry (Wilson Farm parking lot). We will parade on the sidewalk to Absolut Care, and parade through the nursing home to show off your best dressed pet! We will then parade back to downtown. Pets should be on leashes and dressed up!
1:00 - 2:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free

Monday, February 20
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Park Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dawn to Dusk. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
11:00 AM Free Movie – Winter Children’s Film, Aurora Theatre, 673 Main St.
11:00 - 3:00 PM Explore ‘n More Children's Activities – Theme: Around Town- Eating Locally - 300 Gleed Ave. Admission is $5.00 per person. Free for members, children under 1 & WIC. For more info 655-5131 x 12
12:00 – 5:00 PM Bowling Special – Victoria Lanes, 206 Main St. 2 games & shoes, pizza & large pop - $8.00/person
1:00 – 2:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free
3:00 - 3:50 PM Skate and Shoot Youth Ages 14 & up, $5.00 per person/goaltenders are free, hockey helmet is mandatory, full equipment recommended, Time Warner Cable Classic Rink
4:00 - 4:50 PM Skate and Shoot Youth Ages 15 -18, $5.00 person/goaltenders are free, hockey helmet is mandatory, full equipment recommended, Time Warner Cable Classic Rink.

Tuesday, February 21
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Park Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dawn to Dusk. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
9:00 – 11:45 AM or
12:15 – 3:00 PM Chess and Soccer Camp - Exercise your mind and body! Join this fun and inspiring introduction to the game of Chess, whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced player. In either the morning or afternoon session, there will be two classroom lessons with practice time, and an hour break in between to become skilled in soccer. Two sessions – 9:00 – 11:45 or 12:15 – 3:00 pm, Tues – Friday, February 21st – 24th. Boys and girls grades k – 8 (players will be paired by age/ability). $80.00 Residents, Second child in family is $65.00. Non-residents please add $10. Parkdale First Floor Common and gymnasium. Sponsored by the Town of Aurora Parks & Recreation. www.aurorarec.com
11:00 - 3:00 PM Explore N More - Children's Activities- Theme: Around Town- Police & Firefighters -300 Gleed Ave Admission is $5.00 per person. Free for members, children under 1 & WIC. For more info 655-5131 X 12
12:00 - 5:00 PM Bowling Special – Victoria Lanes, 206 Main, 2 games, shoes, pizza & large pop - $8.00/person
1:00 - 2:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free
1:00 -3:00 PM Free Pool Party - Middle School Pool, 430 Main St. Sponsored by EAST!!

Wednesday, February 22
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Park Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dawn to Dusk. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
9:00 – 11:45 AM or
12:15 – 3:00 PM Chess and Soccer Camp - Exercise your mind and body! Join this fun and inspiring introduction to the game of Chess, whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced player. In either the morning or afternoon session, there will be two classroom lessons with practice time, and an hour break in between to become skilled in soccer. Two sessions – 9:00 – 11:45 or 12:15 – 3:00 pm, Tues – Friday, February 21st – 24th. Boys and girls grades k – 8 (players will be paired by age/ability). $80.00 Residents, Second child in family is $65.00. Non-residents please add $10. Parkdale First Floor Common and gymnasium. Sponsored by the Town of Aurora Parks & Recreation. www.aurorarec.com

10:00 – 1:30 PM Babysitting Course – Children ages 11 & older. $40 residents/$50 nonresidents includes reference book, CD and first aid kit. Must attend both Wednesday & Thursday class to receive card. Must pre register at Town of Aurora Dept. of Parks & Recreation or online at www.aurorarec.com
11:00 - 3:00 PM Explore N More – Children's Activities – Theme: Around Town- Construction Fun. 300 Gleed Ave Admission is $5.00 per person. For more info 655-5131 X 12
12:00 -5:00 PM Bowling Special – Victoria Lanes, 206 Main, 2 games, shoes, pizza & large pop - $8.00/person
1:00 - 2:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free
3:00 - 3:50 PM Skate and Shoot Youth Ages 14 & up, $5.00 per person/goaltenders are free, hockey helmet is mandatory, full equipment recommended, Time Warner Cable Classic Rink
3:30 PM Bubble Man - Doug Rougeux performs Bubble Mania where his combination of bubble art and science will astonish audiences of all ages. Everyone welcome, free of charge – East Aurora Public Library- 550 Main Street. Sponsored by the Friends of Aurora Library.
4:00 - 4:50 PM Skate and Shoot Youth Ages 15 -18, $5.00 person/goaltenders are free, hockey helmet is mandatory, full equipment recommended, Time Warner Cable Classic Rink.

Thursday, February 23
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Park Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dawn to Dusk. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
9:00 – 11:45 AM or
12:15 – 3:00 PM Chess and Soccer Camp - Exercise your mind and body! Join this fun and inspiring introduction to the game of Chess, whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced player. In either the morning or afternoon session, there will be two classroom lessons with practice time, and an hour break in between to become skilled in soccer. Two sessions – 9:00 – 11:45 or 12:15 – 3:00 pm, Tues – Friday, February 21st – 24th. Boys and girls grades k – 8 (players will be paired by age/ability). $80.00 Residents, Second child in family is $65.00. Non-residents please add $10. Parkdale First Floor Common and gymnasium. Sponsored by the Town of Aurora Parks & Recreation. www.aurorarec.com
10:00 – 1:30 PM Babysitting Course – Children ages 11 & older. $40 residents/$50 nonresidents includes reference book, CD and first aid kit. Must attend both Wednesday & Thursday class to receive card. Must pre register at Town of Aurora Dept. of Parks & Recreation or online at www.aurorarec.com
11:00 – 3:00 PM Explore N More – Children's Activities: Theme- Staying Healthy 300 Gleed Ave Admission is $5.00 per person. Free for members, children under 1 & WIC. For more info 655-5131 X 12
12:00 - 5:00 PM Bowling Special – Victoria Lanes, 206 Main, 2 games, shoes, pizza & large pop - $8.00/person
1:00 - 2:545 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free

Friday, February 24
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Park Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dawn to Dusk. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
9:00 – 11:45 AM or
12:15 – 3:00 PM Chess and Soccer Camp - Exercise your mind and body! Join this fun and inspiring introduction to the game of Chess, whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced player. In either the morning or afternoon session, there will be two classroom lessons with practice time, and an hour break in between to become skilled in soccer. Two sessions – 9:00 – 11:45 or 12:15 – 3:00 pm, Tues – Friday, February 21st – 24th. Boys and girls grades k – 8 (players will be paired by age/ability). $80.00 Residents, Second child in family is $65.00. Non-residents please add $10. Parkdale First Floor Common and gymnasium. Sponsored by the Town of Aurora Parks & Recreation. www.aurorarec.com
11:00 - 3:00 PM Explore N More – Children's Activities "Crafts for getting active". 300 Gleed Ave. Admission is $5.00 per person. For more info 655-5131 X 12
12:00 & 1:00PM Explore N More – Children's Activities- Theme: Around Town – Taking Care of Our Pets. 300 Gleed Ave. Admission is $5.00 per person. Free for members, children under 1 & WIC For more info 655-5131 X 12
12:00 - 5:00 PM Bowling Special – Victoria Lanes, 206 Main St. 2 games & shoes, pizza & large pop - $8.00/person
1:00 - 2:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink 41 Riley St , Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free
4:00 - 4:50 PM Skate and Shoot Youth Ages 14 & up, $5.00 per person/goaltenders are free, hockey helmet is mandatory, full equipment recommended, Time Warner Cable Classic Rink
5:00 - 5:50 PM Skate and Shoot Youth Ages 15 -18, $5.00 person/goaltenders are free, hockey helmet is mandatory, full equipment recommended, Time Warner Cable Classic Rink.
7:00 - 8:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free
11:00 PM Movie- The Sandlot – Fundraiser for the EA HS Girls Softball Team- Aurora Theatre, and 673 Main St.

Saturday, February 25
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Park Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dusk to dawn. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
12:00 - 3:00 PM Explore N More – Children's Activities "Let’s get Physical" with Sarah Hooper. 300 Gleed Ave. Admission is $5.00 per person. Free for members, children under 1 & WIC For more info 655-5131 X 12
1:00 - 2:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free
1:30 – 3:00 PM Parent/Child Bowling Tournament - Victoria Lanes – 206 Main St. Children grades 2 – 8 accompanied by adult - $15.00 per team for 3 games & shoes. Scotch Doubles sponsored by the Town of Aurora Parks & Recreation. For more info Call 652-8866 or visit our website at www.aurorarec.com.
3:30 - 5:00 PM Aktion Club, Key Club & Kiwanis Club Skate Party – A special free skate for members of each organization. Pizza & hot chocolate will be served. Sponsored by Kiwanis Club of East Aurora and Century 21 Gold Standard0
7:00 - 9:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors $3, 4 & under free

Sunday, February 26
All Day Winter Fun at Majors Get out your toboggans, cross country skis and snowshoes, and enjoy our new park! Dusk to dawn. 441 Olean Rd. www.aurorarec.com
All Day Sundae Sunday – 75 cent Sundaes all day, Taste, 634 Main St.
1:00 - 2:45 PM Public Skate - Time Warner Cable Classic Rink, 41 Riley, Adults $5, Students/Seniors

Eastern Hills Mall Summer in February

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Dollar Day at the Botanical Gardens - 2/20/2012

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Once again, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens offer their $1 admission day. This would be a great way to start out your February break!

Dollar Day is February 20, 2012. Kids 3 and under are free as well as members. The Botanical Gardens are open from 10am-5pm.

If you have never been to the Botanical Gardens, this would be a good time to check it out! From the littlest to the biggest kid in your family - they will all enjoy it. (And if they don't - at least you only spent a $1!)

Diamond Alpacas of Clarence

2012-02-13T11:42:00.000-05:00

Looking for somethng fun and free to do with the kids? Stop by Diamond Alpacas of Clarence farm and meet the alpacas!

Diamond Alpacas of Clarence is located on 15 acres approximately 30 minutes from Buffalo and Niagara Falls in Western NY. They are conveniently located in a semi-suburban area and they have built a beautiful home for the alpacas!

The farm and store are open Monday through Saturday, 10am - 4pm. The alpacas love visitors! Learn about alpacas and shop the store. The farm and store are located at 8485 Wolcott Rd, Clarence, NY 14032.

EXPIRED!! 6 or 12 Indoor Playground Visits to Toddle Town and More up to 57% off!

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A nice Groupon deal here for Toddle Town and More in Depew, NY! Here are the details:

For $17, you get 6 open-play visits (a $35 value).
For $30, you get 12 open-play visits (a $70 value).

Expires Jun 29, 2012 Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 additional as a gift. Valid only for option purchased. Please read the rest of the fine print before purchasing. Toddle Town is a peanut free environment.

I believe the usual admission fee for open play at Toddle Town is $8 so this is a great deal!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for using them.

Shrine Circus at the Fairgrounds March 15-18, 2012

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ETA: February 13 - March 11 McKinley Mall customers who purchase a gift card from the McKinley Mall information booth between February 13 and March 11 will receive a voucher for two free children's tickets to the Shrine Circus being held at the Event Center on the Hamburg Fairgrounds.

Voucher must be redeemed at the Shrine Circus Office and can only be used on the following dates: Thursday, March 15 at 7:00 pm, Friday, March 16 at 3:30 pm, or Saturday, March 17 at 10:00 am

ETA: Saveology (a daily deal site) is offering 4 tickets for $25. Valid only on the 3/15/2012 show at 7pm. Fine print: Saveology will email you certificates which you must then take to the Shrine Circus office at 1600 Southwestern Boulevard in West Seneca by March 13, 2012 to get your actual tickets.

The Shrine Circus will once again be at the Fairgrounds in Hamburg, NY from March 15-18, 2012. If and when I hear of any discounts on tickets I will post it within this post as well as on the Facebook page.

Here are the dates and show times from the Fairgrounds website:

Date: Thursday-Sunday, March 15-18, 2012

Hours: Thursday: 10:30am & 7:00pm
Friday: 10:30am, 3:30pm & 7:00pm Saturday: 10:00am, 2:30pm & 7:30pm
Sunday: 1:00pm & 5:00pm

Admission: Adults $13.00, Seniors (61 & over) $10.00, Children(10 & under) $8.00

Parking: Free

I understand that some folks are completely opposed to the circus. Please know that I post about the circus one time per year. At the same time I also provide information on events at Hawk Creek as well as Hidden Animal Adventure throughout the year.

I am keeping the comments open on this post. Please keep your comments appropriate for this blog. (Appropriate comments include ticket discount information or helpful advice/reviews from those who have attended the circus with their kids in the past) If I find that a comment is not appropriate for this blog they will be deleted. Any concerns or personal beliefs you have about the circus can be directly emailed to me at fun4kidsinbuffalo (at) gmail (dot) com.

Once Upon a Time Preschool Story & Craft Time at the SPCA

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I have posted about this previously but thought it would be good to remind everyone of this great storytime at the SPCA. We saw the SPCA at the WNED Kid Fest and I loved how great they were with the kids.

The next story hour is 2/14/2012 from 10am-11am with a special Valentine's Day theme. The story time on 2/14 takes place at the SPCA Serving Erie County 205 Ensminger Road, Tonawanda.

For more information, contact Mary Jo at the SPCA: 629-3538! Remember, admission is free, reservations are required, and a parent or guardian must stay on-site with the child, who should be 2 - 5 years old. You wouldn't want to leave anyway...the classes are a lot of fun!

The next couple weeks the SPCA offers the preschool story time at the following locations (again, these are not held at the SPCA location):

Tuesday, February 21 at the Aurora Town Library 550 Main Street, East Aurora at 10:30am.

Tuesday, February 28 Lake Shore Library S 4857 Lake Shore Rd, Hamburg 6:30 pm

FREE Organic Valley Kids Activity Kit

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A nice little freebie here which includes a $1 off coupon!

You can head over to the Organic Valley website and sign up for the Organic Valley Kids Activity Flyer. On the back of the flyer is a $1 off coupon for a 12 pack of the single serve milk.

I like getting these kind of FREE activity sheets in the mail because they are the sort of things I save for a long car ride, rainy/snowy day, etc.

Homemade Marshmallows with a Valentine's Day Twist

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The last couple of weeks I've been seeing a lot of homemade marshmallow recipes popping up on some of the blogs that I read. When Mother Thyme (a Buffalo food blogger) posted her recipe for Homemade Marshmallows with a little Valentine's twist I decided to give it a try.

Get the entire recipe from Mother Thyme here. I did exactly what she said to do in her recipe.

After everything was cooked and mixed (which took about 30 minutes) here are my marshmallows ready to go in the refrigerator for a minimum of 3 hours.

After dinner the marshmallows were ready. Now the true test - were they actually going to taste like marshmallows? Surprisingly, yes! I flipped them out onto a large pastry sheet on the kitchen table and the kids and I got down to the business of decorating our treats!

With a little help the kids used the heart cookie cutter to cut our hearts. This is not pictured but I had strawberry melting chocolate from Michael's Craft Store and some Valentine's sprinkles. A total hit, by the way! Both of them were asking to decorate (and eat) more and more!

As the "final touch", the kids shook a little powdered sugar onto the tops and stuck a lollipop stick in them.

FYI, I had tons of marshmallow "scraps" left. Using my kitchen scissors I just cut them up into pieces, through them in a container with some powdered sugar to keep them from getting too sticky and tossed them all around. With a high of 18 degrees on Saturday I think we will use some of them for a nice cup of hot chocolate!

Buffalo Auto Show 2012

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Surprisingly, there are several fun things for kids at the Buffalo Auto Show! From what I can tell some of the character appearances seem to be happening on Saturday and Sunday of the show. Of course, if your kids are like my 5 year old boy, seeing all the cars will also be a lot of fun! (FYI, children 5 and under are FREE!)

Ticket Prices are as follows:

At the Gate: $9.00
Presale at TOPS or NOCO: $8.00
Presale only - Family 4 pack - $27.00
Children 5yrs and under - FREE

Character appearances include the Fisher Price Rescue Heroes as well as Captain America. Also, it looks as though a Bills player or two as well as a Sabres player will be making appearances.

Need more information? Head over to the Buffalo Auto Show website.

Saturday Fun 2/11/2012

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*Abraham Lincoln's 203rd Birthday Celebration at the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society (Cost is FREE)

*Hunter's Day of Hope for Children in Orchard Park. Cost is FREE.

*TOPS cooking school offers Queen of Hearts Tea Party for Little Chefs ages 3-6 with a parent. Cost is $13 per child. (Get the rest of the information at this link)

If you're kids are interested in these cooking classes, there are several Valentine's themed cooking classes coming up for different age groups. Read about them here.

*Western New York Book Arts Collaborative

Saturday the Western New York Book Arts Center is featuring a special workshop: Origami Books & Book Origami for kids. The workshop will be taught by certified art teacher/local artist Amy Hartman. 12-2pm, $25 including materials. Register soon!

Buffalo Auto Show Some fun things for kids happening on Saturday and Sunday!

*North Collins Winterfest (the 10th and 11th) Cost is FREE

*Barnes and Noble Amherst Location offers Plant a Kiss with Little Miss Event at 11am

Join us this morning for a special Valentine's Day event featuring the book, Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal. Included in this free event will be great stories, craft packets for each child and a special snack surprise! Cost is FREE

*Flower Crafts with Seeds and Nuts at the Audubon Library for ages 6-12 at 1pm.

Presented by the Smallwood Garden Club. Use found objects in nature to create flowers. Items will be used to design an arrangement to take home. Registration required. Cost is FREE

*Riviera Family Film Series showing The Muppets (PG) Cost is $2.

*Niagara Hobby and Craft Mart Valentines Day Children's Craft Workshop. Registration required. Cost is FREE

*Valentines Day Doll Tea Party at Pottery Barn Kids at 3pm and 4pm.

A special tea time in celebration of Valentine's Day. Get dressed up and bring your doll or teddy bear in for an afternoon of refreshments, stories and crafts. Registration required. Cost is FREE

*Middle School Student Night from 7-9:30pm

The totally free Middle School Activity Nights are once a month, and open to any Middle School Students! The coffee house, mini-gym and Main hall are open! We sell low priced snacks and beverages, the big-screen tv will have a sporting game on, there's basketball in the mini-gym, 4-square, ping pong, foosball and arts & crafts are happening in the main hall, and free wi-fi is available everywhere in the building. Other than food, everything is free! (Water fountain also available).

*If you registered weeks ago your child can Make a Valentine Card Creator at Lowes Build and Grow from 10am-11am. This class has been filled for at least 2 weeks! And I see that the February 25th class is already full!!

*Meet Clifford at B is for Books from 10am-2pm plus Valentines crafts and activities.

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and who better to celebrate it with than a Big, Red, lovable dog? Clifford will be at the store giving hugs, high-fives and having photos taken with his friends. There will also be Valentines crafts and activities for kids. Cost is FREE

*Buffalo Winterfest on both Saturday and Sunday. Cost is FREE

*WNY Home and Garden Expo (Cost is FREE for kids 10 and under) There really are some great activities for kids here!

SUNDAY the 12th

Family Film Series at Shea's - showing The Never Ending Story. Get your FREE tickets at Erie and Niagara County Wegman's.

Winterfest in Glen Park from 1-4pm.

Family events. Hayrides, petting zoo, hiking, sledding, snowshoeing, refreshments. Snow or no snow event will go on. Cost is FREE

WNY Home and Garden Expo

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If the adults in the family want to see what's new at the WNY Home and Garden Expo this weekend, feel free to bring the kids! Kids 10 and under are FREE and there are kids activities at the expo!

Straight from the WNY Home and Garden Expo website:

Parents, make sure you bring your children to The Penn Dixie Paleontological & Education Center Display at this year’s Expo. The Penn Dixie staff and volunteers have plenty of activities for KIDS of all ages. They’re FUN and EDUCATIONAL!

Here’s just a few of the activities your children can enjoy…

♦ Kids, Get your hands dirty and Dig for a FREE authentic fossil and then learn how to identify it.

♦ View fossils from the Penn Dixie Site that lived in the ocean 380 million years before the dinosaurs.

♦ For the less adventurous little ones with you, stop at the coloring and activity area and let them be creative.

♦ Look through a real telescope!

The WNY Home and Garden Expo takes place Thursday, February 9, 2012 at 10:00am until Sunday, February 12, 2012 at 5:00pm at the Hamburg Fairgrounds - Event Center & Expo Hall

Admission: Adults $6.00, Children under 10 are Free

Buffalo Winterfest

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Another great Winterfest headed your way this weekend!

The 3rd Annual Buffalo Winterfest & Powder Keg Festival is set for Feb 11th and 12th, 2012! The festival will feature outdoor events in Niagara Square, along two blocks of Delaware Avenue, as well as indoor events in the historic Statler City building. There will be activities that have no need for snow.

There are so many FREE, fun things happening which you can read about on the Buffalo Winterfest website. But here are a few things highlighted for the kids:

Kids will be entertained with a petting zoo, hockey shot competitions, Kan Jam, a Scavenger Hunt, Hay Rides and a visit from the SPCA Whisker Wagon.

AND

Inside the Statler the building’s 2nd floor will feature a family entertainment area with carnival games, face painting and winter crafts. Other activities include a chili cook-off and local food trucks that will be set up long Delaware Ave. the entire festival weekend.

FREE: Hunter's Day of Hope for Children

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Every year when this event pops up I cannot tell you how many great comments I get from parents. Kids (and parents) LOVE this event.

Hunter's Day of Hope for Children takes place at the Buffalo Bills Fieldhouse in Orchard Park, NY. This FREE event happens from 1-4pm on Saturday, February 11th!

FREE Admission, Activities, Food & Beverage! Entertainment for kids of all ages.
Fun games, prizes and give-a-ways.

Hunter's Day of Hope for Children fulfills one of the primary goals of Hunter's Hope
to remind parents how blessed they are to have the gift of children and to thank God for them everyday! During Hunter's Day of Hope for Children, families come together
and spend time just having fun (music, dancing, games, face painting and food).
Most importantly we all gather together and pray for our children. How wonderful is that!

On a side note - absolutely wonderful book written by Jill Kelly. Without A Word is a touching, encouraging and inspiring read. I highly recommend it!

Sesame Street Live Elmo's Superheroes at Shea's!

2012-02-08T10:09:00.002-05:00

Sesame Street Live Elmo’s Super Heroes is coming to Shea's February 22-26, 2012!

Press Release follows:

Super Grover has lost his super-ness and Sesame Street needs a hero! Never fear, the fabulous five Super Heroes are here -- featuring Elmo as Captain Fuzzy! Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all their friends are on a quest to put the “super” back in Super Grover. Singing and dancing their way through fun lessons on healthy habits, they discover how exercise, rest, nutritious food and good hygiene can save Super Grover -- and turn your children into Super Heroes, too! You’ll be feeling good when Elmo’s Super Heroes comes to town!

If you're interested in purchasing tickets, you can use the code ERNIE online at ticketmaster.com to save $3 per ticket. (Excludes gold circle and sunny seats. Not valid on opening night or previously purchased tickets. Cannot be combine with any other offer.)

If you have a better deal on a coupon code, please leave a comment below or on the facebook page!