Tag Archives: storytime

Book Review: Secrets of Winter

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Secrets of Winter
Written by Carron Brown
Illustrated by Bee Johnson
by Kane Miller EDC Publishing

We didn’t have a playdate to post yesterday since we took the week off for Thanksgiving last Thursday.  So today, I’m sharing a sneak-peek into yesterday’s WINTER playdate.

My inspiration for this playdate was the changing of season this month.  I had the perfect book to share, Secrets of Winter by Carron Brown & Georgina Tee. This book was new in our library this school year – I purchased it from my friend Tina, who is a rep for Usborne Books.

The story introduces the idea of exploring through a winter evening.  The pictures alternate between full color and black&white, which seemed to keep the children’s attention. There is the added intrigue of seeing an additional image revealed when you shine a light through the page!

There is no need to trim the story as the storyteller. The story moves along with 2-3 sentences and/or statements per page.  It also shows a large variety of animals and how they manage through the winter weather, so there are fun animal facts being acquired along with the visual enjoyment of the book.

Our guests and my own Sweet Peas thoroughly enjoyed the book! Their ages ranged from 2 years to 11 years old. From the endpaper printed with delightful animal prints, to the hidden surprises revealed with a flashlight on every page, there are endless ways to enjoy this book.

In fact, the children liked it so much, I sat with my legs out in front of me in order to keep the circle wide enough for everyone to see! That is definitely a first, and always a welcome sight to see children enjoying a book so much that they are piling on top of each other to get closer.

You can purchase your own copy of Secrets of Winter, other books in the “Secrets of” series, or anything else Usborne has to offer by following THIS link to Tina’s online store.  Any orders placed before 12/10/2015 will arrive in time for Christmas gifting.

Happy reading!! Stay tuned for next Thursday’s installment of “Preschool Playdate” when I share all the activites we did to celebrate winter (hint: we had a snowball fight in Arizona!!).

 

UPCOMING EVENTS Sep 30 – Oct 1

We are enjoying the cooler weather by schooling outside.  Which events will you be checking out this week?  We are super excited for the return of the Chandler Farmer’s Market on Thursdays!!

Save the date for an awesome weekend at the Rio Salado Audubon Center in October.

Monday, September 30
Prenatal Yoga
The Nest at Babymoon Inn @ 6:00 pm
220 E Lexington Ave
Phoenix AZ 85012
602-314-7755

Tuesday, October 1
Tumbleweed Tots
This indoor play area is designed for children 5 years of age and under to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Fee included in all TRC family passes.
Tumbleweed Rec Center @ 9am – 11am
745 E. Germann Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85286
480-782-2900

Story Time at Pottery Barn Kids
Kids of all ages are invited to come to the store for story time every Tuesday.  Members receive an official book club passport at their first story time, plus a special gift after attending five story times.  To locate a store near you, click HERE
http://www.potterybarnkids.com/customer-service/store-locator.html
Chandler Fashion Center @ 11:00 – 11:30 am
Nordstrom’s Wing
3111 West Chandler Blvd.
Chandler 85226
(480) 899-7155

Homebirth Circle 
Come join the beautiful space and share thoughts about life, babies and love.  The circle is open to any adult and lap babies only.  Feel free to bring a healthy snack to share. Freedom and The Seed Office @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
123 Baseline Rd, Suite 205
Tempe, AZ
480-528-1689

Fish Feeding
Come see an 18,500 gallon freshwater aquarium that offers an up-close view of trophy-sized catfish, bass, striper and blue gill.  Feeding includes an informative presentation about the fish.  Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm and Tuesdays at 6:00 pm.  Also, every day kids can help us feed the trout in our Trout Stream at 1:30pm.
Bass Pro Shop Trout Stream @ 1:30 pm
Bass Pro Shop Aquarium @ 6:00 pm
1133 N Dobson Rd
Mesa 85201
602-606-5600

Wednesday, October 2
Breastfeeding Photo Shoot
Babymoon Inn will be hosting breastfeeding photo shoots with Photography by Jenn on October 2nd and October 5th.   Cost is $90 if we have 6 moms (we need at least 6) and $80 if we have 7 or more shoots. Shoots will be 30 minutes in length and start at 7 am, with the last shoot starting at 11:30 am.
If you want to take a peek at Jenn’s amazing work check out photography by jenn.  Jenn will do breastfeeding photos (which are GORGEOUS), photos of baby, or family photos.
The event is posted on the Babymoon Inn Facebook page. Time slots are listed in the event under the comments.
Wednesday (10/2)
Saturday (10/5)
To reserve a time slot please comment that you are taking that time slot. It will be first come, first serve on slots.  Once you have a time slot, you will need to make a deposit to finalize your session. Jenn accepts PayPal or credit card to hold your spot. Michelle at The Nest will be posting the link to make your deposit shortly.
If you have any questions, feel free to email Michelle at michelle@babymooninn.com.
The Nest at Babymoon Inn
220 E Lexington Ave
Phoenix AZ 85012
602-314-7755

National Geographic Kids Club 
The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting.  Meet in the Gap wing near the Food Court now through mid-November!
This week’s theme: It’s fun to watch what animals do at the zoo. Some may roar, spit or burp and others may find some water to squirt.
Chandler Fashion Center @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
3111 W Chandler Blvd
Chandler, AZ 85226
(480) 812-8488

Music Time
Enjoy singing, simple instruments and movements with your child.  For children ages 5 and under and their caregiver.
Bookmans Mesa @ 10:00 – 10:30 am
1056 S. Country Club Dr.
Mesa, AZ 85210
480-835-0505

Inn Mommies: Explorers Playgroup 
Rhyme Time with the Explorers: This is a wonderful group where you can come and meet other new moms and their babies. Bring your lunch if you like, the Babymoon Inn coffee and tea bar will be open!
Join us as we sing a few songs and rhymes before we get out a variety of toys to play. Get ready to Twinkle Twinkle and Itsy Bitsy Spider.
This playgroup is for moms and babies of all ages that are exploring their world. Pregnant moms are also welcome. It is open to women that have given birth in all settings: home, at Babymoon Inn, or in a hospital. Siblings are welcome in the Explorers group.
We meet at The Nest at Babymoon Inn which is across the street from the birth center.
The Nest at Babymoon Inn @ 10:00 am
220 E Lexington Ave
Phoenix AZ 85012
602-314-7755

Dignity Healthcare Breastfeeding Support Group
With the exception of major holidays… For more information, please call the ResourceLink toll-free 1 (877) 728-5414, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5:30 pm
Chandler Regional Medical Center @ 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
1955 W Frye Rd
Chandler, AZ 85224

Phoenix Art Museum
It’s never to early to start art appreciation with your Sweet Peas.  You can enjoy PhxArtKids, an interactive space for children, along with galleries of art showcasing American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art, and fashion design.  The Phoenix Art Museum offers free admission every Wednesday afternoon and on First Fridays.
Phoenix Art Museum @ 3:00 – 9:00 pm
1625 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-256-7539

Phoenix Public Market
“our Open-Air Market is a natural gathering place that celebrates neighborhoods and the neighbors. It offers an eclectic high-quality mix of: Fresh in-season fruits and vegetables, produce, flowers, jams, baked goods, dried beans, free-range eggs and honey, live plants and unique local arts and crafts, tasty hot foods, music, and more.
Open Air Market @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
721 N Central
Phoenix, AZ

Thursday, October 3
Tumbleweed Tots
This indoor play area is designed for children 5 years of age and under to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Fee included in all TRC family passes.
Tumbleweed Rec Center @ 9am – 11am
745 E. Germann Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85286
480-782-2900
Tuesday/Thursday

Little Critters Story Time with Ranger Amy
Ranger Amy Ford reads a children’s book aloud Every Thursday, and a themed program centered around the story follows. Activities can include live animals, songs, crafts and puppet plays. The program is held in the air-conditioned Visitor Center.  Price: $6/vehicle
McDowell Mountain Regional Park @ 12:30 – 1:30 PM
16300 McDowell Mountain Park Drive
Scottsdale  85259
480-471-0173

Chandler Farmer’s Market
This Farmers Market hosts a variety of vendors including produce, baked goods, salsa, jams and honey, olive oil, seafood, granola, beauty products, and much more!  The Craft Market will be held once a month on the first Thursday of each month.  Come find hand made and hand crafted items from local artisans.
Dr. AJ Chandler Park @ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
3 South Arizona Avenue
Chandler, AZ
480-855-3539

Friday, October 4
Mesa Community Farmers Market
May include depending on season: fresh produce, baked goods, jams & jellies, salsas, spices, natural pork, beef and fish, hand-made craft products, lotions and soaps. Free admission, free parking. Accepts AZ Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers. Located near downtown Mesa and cafes, coffee shops, museums, and antique stores.
Rendezvous Green @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm  June – Sept: 9am-Noon, Oct.-May: 9 AM – 1pm
263 N. Center St.
Mesa, AZ 85201
602-290-5067

Dignity Healthcare Breastfeeding Support Group
With the exception of major holidays… For more information, please call the ResourceLink toll-free 1 (877) 728-5414, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5:30 pm
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center @ 10:00 am to 11:30 am
3555 S Val Vista Dr.
Gilbert, AZ 85297

Storytime at Barnes & Noble
It’s Halloween fun with lift-the-flap surprises as we read ‘What Am I?’ Halloween by Anne Margaret Lewis.
Barnes & Noble @ 10:30 am
3111 W. Chandler Blvd #2054
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-792-1312

Fun Friday
Children 1 to 4 and their caregivers can enjoy themed events, including hand motion songs, singalongs, dancing, stories and games. Activities are designed to enhance musical, social, physical and memory skills. Caregivers must remain in the store.
Microsoft Store @ 10:30 – 11:15 am
Scottsdale Fashion Square
7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 1288
Scottsdale, AZ, 85251
480-308-0800

Food Truck Friday
Phoenix Public Market @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
721 N Central
Phoenix, AZ

Enchanted Island Family Night
There’s never a charge to enter Enchanted Island. You simply pay for the rides you want to ride on, the games you want to play, and the food you want to eat.  Friday nights, enjoy special pricing for unlimited rides: $6.50 for Children or Adults Wristbands
Enchanted Island Amusement Park @ 5:00 – 9:30 pm
1202 W. Encanto Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-254-1200

Toy Car & Cruise
Race Hot Wheels on a 30-foot long track with an electronic start and a timer. Kids 12 and younger receive a free Hot Wheels car. A custom Hot Wheels show is included along with a car cruise featuring full-size automobiles.
Hobby Town @ 6-10p
1817 E. Baseline Road
Gilbert, AZ, 85233
480-621-7765

Phoenix Art Museum First Friday
It’s never to early to start art appreciation with your Sweet Peas.  You can enjoy PhxArtKids, an interactive space for children, along with galleries of art showcasing American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art, and fashion design.  The Phoenix Art Museum offers free admission every Wednesday afternoon (3-9p) and on First Fridays.
Phoenix Art Museum @ 6:00 – 10:00 pm
1625 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-256-7539

Free Outdoor Concert – Tempe
Bring the family out to enjoy great live music performed by a variety of musicians.  Choose from two stages of entertainment.  For more information click HERE
http://tempemarketplace.com/events/live-music/
Tempe Marketplace @ 7:00 pm
2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy
Tempe 85281
480-966-9338

Free Outdoor Concert – N. Phoenix/Scottsdale
Bring the family out to enjoy great live music performed by a variety of musicians.  Choose from two stages of entertainment.  For more information click HERE (http://www.shopdesertridge.com/events/full-calendar/)
Desert Ridge Marketplace @ 7:00 – 9:00 pm
21001 N Tatum Blvd
Phoenix 85050
480-513-7586

Coming up this Saturday:
Star Wars Reads Day!
Join us for Star Wars Reads Day, a celebration of all things Star Wars. We’ll have activities for the whole family, from Storytimes and crafts to costume contests.
Chandler Fashion Mall @ 11:00 AM
3111 W. Chandler Blvd #2054
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-792-1312

LIBRARIES:
Chandler, AZ http://www.chandlerlibrary.org/
Glendale, AZ http://www.glendaleaz.com/Library/index.cfm
Mesa, AZ http://www.mesalibrary.org/
Payson, AZ http://www.paysonlibrary.com/
Phoenix, AZ http://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/default.jsp
Peoria, AZ http://library.peoriaaz.gov/polaris/default.aspx
Scottsdale, AZ  http://library.scottsdaleaz.gov/
Tempe, AZ  http://www.tempe.gov/index.aspx?page=1588

Monterey, CA http://www.monterey.org/library/Home.aspx

To submit your event:
Please follow this format (same as above).  Anything that is not “copy-paste” ready may not be posted – it will depend on how much time I have between homeschooling and loving on four littles.
Event Name
Description & Cost
Location Name & Time
Address
Contact Phone Number
Send your event information to krystyna@sweetpeabirths.com

Disclaimer:
The material included on this site is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult her or his healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation.  Cassandra Okamoto, Krystyna and Bruss Bowman and Bowman House, LLC accept no liability for the content of this site, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided.

UPCOMING EVENTS September 28-29, 2013

Do you have any special plans this weekend?  We are looking forward to celebrating some birthdays at our house, so you can count on seeing us at the grocery store!  Wishing you all a fun and memorable weekend with your Sweet Peas!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2013
Museum Day Live!
Visit a museum for free Saturday, Sept. 28, during Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day Live! In Arizona, 30 museums and cultural institutions are participating. To get in free, you must present a ticket. Visit smithsonianmag.com/museumday to request the ticket, which will be e-mailed to you. Print it and take it to get free admission. One ticket per household, per email.

Apple Harvest Celebration
Celebrate the peak of the apple season with tree-ripened Red Delicious, Golden Delicious and Rome Beauty apples. Experience the fun of picking your own apples, or select from already picked apples. Come early to enjoy the delicious “All You Can Eat” pancake breakfast served with hot apple topping or cider syrup, served each day from 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM. Apple-smoked burger lunches will be served from 11:30 AM – 3 PM. Free wagon rides will take you to the orchards for picking; Asian pears will also be available for picking. Homemade apple pies are baked fresh daily, and don’t miss the delicious “apple crumb pie ice cream”, made in an Amish ice cream freezer. Hot roasted sweet corn will be available at the farm location.  FREE admission
Apple Annie’s Orchard @ 7:30 am – 5:30 pm  http://www.appleannies.com/
2081 W Hardy Rd
Wilcox, AZ. 85643
520.384.2084

Gilbert Farmer’s Market
7:00 am – 11:00 am
222 N. Ash St
Gilbert 85234
480-583-0101

Roadrunner Farmer’s Market
8:00 am – 1:00 pm
3502 E Cactus Rd
Phoenix 85032
623-848-1234

Phoenix Public Market
“our Open-Air Market is a natural gathering place that celebrates neighborhoods and the neighbors. It offers an eclectic high-quality mix of: Fresh in-season fruits and vegetables, produce, flowers, jams, baked goods, dried beans, free-range eggs and honey, Live plants and unique local arts and crafts, Tasty hot foods, music, and more”
Open Air Market @ 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
721 N Central
Phoenix, AZ

Dragonfly & Butterfly Bash!
Dragonflies, damselflies and Monarch butterflies rule the wetland habitats at Veterans Oasis Park during the late summer. This special event celebrates these beautiful insects through guided nature walks, hands-on crafts and presentations! Walks are approximately 20 minutes in duration and the terrain is easy. Last walk will depart the EEC at 11 a.m., due to the late summer heat. Don’t miss this fun-filled, family-friendly special event! Pre-registration is not required; drop-in anytime!
Veterans Oasis Park @ 9 a.m.-noon
4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85249
480-782-2890

Our Avian Friends
This program introduces the hobby of bird watching. It details the needs of bird watchers, from equipment to how to become a good “birder”. Discussion of bird traits to look for as well as how to listen to bird sounds are included. Major bird orders and specifics to consider when engaging in identification are detailed. The program also has some short beginners quizzes to test the new “birder”s skill. Lots of pictures and ornithological information. Slide Show.***Special Guest Speaker, Joe Ford. Joe is a native of Missouri. He holds several degrees in education and a Masters Degree in Natural Science from the University of Oklahoma. He has been an educator on the junior high, high school and college levels. After 42 years in the teaching field he retired to Sun City, Arizona. He is a board member in the Sonoran Audubon Society and a member of the Sun City Rockhounds, among many of his other interests.  $6/vehicle
Cave Creek Regional Park @ 9:00 am – 10:30 am
37900 N. Cave Creek Parkway
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
623-465-0431

Train and Carousel Rides
Come out for a day of old-fashioned fun at the railroad park.  Enjoy the shade provided by the park’s many large trees  Kids can play at various play area including a covered playground with water sprays.  Train and Carousel Rides $2.00/each; free for kids under 3 with paying adult.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park @ 10:00 am to 6:30
7301 E Indian Bend Rd
Scottsdale 85250
480-312-2312

Family Storytime – Tempe
Family Storytime complete with songs, movement activities and finger plays that encourage early learning. Program aimed for ages 0-3 but siblings are welcomed and encouraged to attend.  **Held the LAST Saturday of every month.**
Tempe Public Library – Storytime Room @ 10:30 am – 11:00 am
3500 S. Rural Rd
Tempe, Arizona 85282

The Princess, the Unicorn & the Smelly Foot Troll – Puppet Show
The Great Arizona Puppet Theater presents a puppet show featuring rod marionettes. Enjoy an original story about a princess who decides not to invite the smelly foot troll to her birthday party.
Tempe Public Library – Meeting Room A @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
3500 S. Rural Rd
Tempe, Arizona 85282

Dad & Toddler Storytime
Dads can enjoy stories with their favorite toddler
Mustang Library @10:30 am – 11:00 am
10101 N. 90th St.
Scottsdale, 85258
480-321-7323

Family Storytime
Share books, stories, songs, rhymes, and music in a fun interactive program that builds early literacy skills. This program is designed for children birth to five years old accompanied by a favorite adult. What is your child learning? Children who love books and stories become more successful readers. Space is limited. Free tickets are available 30 minutes before the program begins.
Ironwood Branch Library @ 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
4333 E. Chandler Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ, 85048
PHONE: 602-262-4636

Free Crafts for Kids
Make-Your-Own Accordion Book
Kids put together this accordion-style book…then write and illustrate their very own tale!
Lakeshore Learning Store @ 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Find your local store HERE

Water Park Fun in Chandler

Enjoy the zero-depth pool area with interactive play area, water vortex, current river and two water slides.  Cost is $2.25 for adults and $1 for children ages 2-17
Hamilton Aquatic Center @ 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm
3838 S Arizona Ave
Chandler 85248
480-782-2630

Meet The Teacher Event
Baby Basics 4 U will be hosting this event to introduce you to their line-up of class instructors. Check out the store’s amazing products, tour the parent education room, and meet all the great instructors!
There will be a FREE sign language story time, giveaways, as well as lots of great information & resources on everything baby!
Baby Town @ 2:00 – 4:00 pm
3787 South Gilbert Road
Gilbert, Arizona 85297

Fish Feeding
Come see an 18,500 gallon freshwater aquarium that offers an up-close view of trophy-sized catfish, bass, striper and blue gill.  Feeding includes an informative presentation about the fish.  Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm and Tuesdays at 6:00 pm.  Also, every day kids can help us feed the trout in our Trout Stream at 1:30pm.
Bass Pro Shop Trout Stream @ 1:30 pm
Bass Pro Shop Aquarium @ 2:00 pm
1133 N Dobson Rd
Mesa 85201
602-606-5600

Autism Family Swim
Children with autism and their families are invited to swim at Hubbard Family Swim School’s Mesa Riverview location on the fourth Saturday of every month. All ages are welcome. There are two heated 90-degree indoor pools, each 4 feet deep with ledges and steps for exploration and fun. Showers and a changing area are available. Lifeguards will be present and all swimmers, regardless of aptitude, are encouraged to participate. Call or send an e-mail to info@hubbardswim.com for questions and to sign up in advance.  $5 per family
Hubbard Family Swim School @ 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Mesa Riverview
1061 N. Dobson Road, Suite 101
Mesa, AZ, 85201
602-971-4044

SMoCA
Bring the family and enjoy free admission to the art exhibits.  “SMoCA brings art, architecture and design to Arizona to challenge expectations. We are not a museum filled with random selections of art from the past; rather we engage the thoughts and concerns of the present. The ideas that interest, trouble and perplex you are the same that artists investigate in exhibitions at the museum.”  Tim Rodgers, Director, SMoCA
Every Thursday (12-9p), and on Friday and Saturday evenings (5-9p).
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art @ 5:00 – 9:00 pm
7374 E. Second Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-874-4666

Free Outdoor Concert – Tempe
Bring the family out to enjoy great live music performed by a variety of musicians.  Choose from two stages of entertainment.  For more information click HERE
Tempe Marketplace @ 7:00 pm
2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy
Tempe 85281
480-966-9338

Free Outdoor Concert – N. Phoenix/Scottsdale
Bring the family out to enjoy great live music performed by a variety of musicians.  Choose from two stages of entertainment.  For more information click HERE
Desert Ridge Marketplace @ 7:00 – 9:00 pm
21001 N Tatum Blvd
Phoenix 85050
480-513-7586

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2013
Apple Harvest Celebration
Celebrate the peak of the apple season with tree-ripened Red Delicious, Golden Delicious and Rome Beauty apples. Experience the fun of picking your own apples, or select from already picked apples. Come early to enjoy the delicious “All You Can Eat” pancake breakfast served with hot apple topping or cider syrup, served each day from 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM. Apple-smoked burger lunches will be served from 11:30 AM – 3 PM. Free wagon rides will take you to the orchards for picking; Asian pears will also be available for picking. Homemade apple pies are baked fresh daily, and don’t miss the delicious “apple crumb pie ice cream”, made in an Amish ice cream freezer. Hot roasted sweet corn will be available at the farm location.  FREE admission
Apple Annie’s Orchard @ 7:30 am – 5:30 pm
2081 W Hardy Rd
Wilcox, AZ. 85643
520.384.2084

Ahwatukee Farmer’s Market
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
4700 E. Warner Road
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-919-0914

Train and Carousel Rides
Come out for a day of old-fashioned fun at the railroad park.  Enjoy the shade provided by the park’s many large trees  Kids can play at various play area including a covered playground with water sprays.  Train and Carousel Rides $2.00/each; free for kids under 3 with paying adult.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park @ 10:00 am to 6:30 pm
7301 E Indian Bend Rd
Scottsdale 85250
480-312-2312

Railroad Rides
Ride scale model trains through the Adobe Mountain recreation area.
Maricopa Live Steamers @ 12:00 – 5:00 pm
22822 N. 43rd Ave
Phoenix 85310
www.maricopalivesteamers.com

Fish Feeding
Come see an 18,500 gallon freshwater aquarium that offers an up-close view of trophy-sized catfish, bass, striper and blue gill.  Feeding includes an informative presentation about the fish.  Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm and Tuesdays at 6:00 pm.  Also, every day kids can help us feed the trout in our Trout Stream at 1:30pm.
Bass Pro Shop Trout Stream @ 1:30 pm
Bass Pro Shop Aquarium @ 2:00 pm
1133 N Dobson Rd
Mesa 85201
602-606-5600

Baby Bear Goes to School Puppet Show
Enjoy a charming musical puppet show about a baby bear that is excited for his first day of school.  For children of preschool age through second grade.  $9/adults, $6/children, Under2/Free
\Great Arizona Puppet Theater
302 W. Latham Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-262-2050

LIBRARIES:
Chandler, AZ http://www.chandlerlibrary.org/
Glendale, AZ http://www.glendaleaz.com/Library/index.cfm
Mesa, AZ http://www.mesalibrary.org/
Payson, AZ http://www.paysonlibrary.com/
Phoenix, AZ http://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/default.jsp
Peoria, AZ http://library.peoriaaz.gov/polaris/default.aspx
Scottsdale, AZ  http://library.scottsdaleaz.gov/
Tempe, AZ  http://www.tempe.gov/index.aspx?page=1588

Monterey, CA http://www.monterey.org/library/Home.aspx

WATER PLAY & SPLASH PADS
AHWATUKEE
Mountain Vista Park: spray pad, splash pad area open daily, approx. through October 1st from 5:30 am – 11:00 pm
13647 S. 50th Street (48th Street and Knox Road)
Phoenix, AZ  85044
(602) 262-6111 (South Division)

CHANDLER
Splash Pads Closed for the Season

GILBERT
Splash Pad at San Tan Village
The Splash Pad, located in the Children’s Play Area, is now open.
Through September 30 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm daily
2218 E. Williams Field Rd.
Suite 235
Gilbert, AZ 85295
(480) 282-9500

SCOTTSDALE
Chesnut Park is open year-round from 8:00am to 5:00pm.  Chesnut Park is a 5-acre park, which includes picnic areas and two ramadas. Additional amenities include two lighted tennis courts, playground, spray pad, large open grass areas, and restroom facilities.
4565 N. Granite Reef
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
General: (480) 312-2771

TEMPE
Spray pads are conveniently located in the following parks.  Hours: 9:00am-7:00pm (Daily, Monday-Sunday)
Jaycee Park (located near the Westside Community Center)
817 West 5th Street
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 350-5200

Esquer Park (just east of the Loop 101 and north of Apache Blvd.)
2407 E McArthur Dr
Tempe, AZ 85281

Hudson Park (south of Apache Blvd on Cedar Street between Rural & McClintock)
1430 S. Cedar St.
Tempe AZ

Do you have an event you want to add to our list?  We are happy to list your event in our weekly blog posts.  Any event, class or meeting that fits into our philosophy of pregnancy, childbirth and parenting will be posted.  We reserve the right to decline requests that do not promote healthy families and peaceful parenting.

To submit your event:
Please follow this format (same as above).  Anything that is not “copy-paste” ready may not be posted – it will depend on how much time I have between homeschooling and loving on four littles.
Event Name
Description & Cost
Location Name & Time
Address
Contact Phone Number
Send your event information to sweetpeafamilies@gmail.com

Disclaimer:
The material included on this site is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult her or his healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation.  Cassandra Okamoto, Krystyna and Bruss Bowman and Bowman House, LLC accept no liability for the content of this site, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided.