RiverLink

Celebrating the French Broad River: Earth Day Art Contest

RiverLink presents an art contest for preK-12th graders in the French Broad Watershed. Categories are divided by 2D, 3D and poetry as well as grade level. Awards include your art on display at Pack Place Community Gallery or REI, Free 2 person Paddle Trip Passes, publication in our newsletter, tabloid, and website, and other potential prizes from art, toy, and outdoor stores! Submission deadline March 18th.

Visit this website for more information on how to enter your piece today: http://www.riverlink.org/earthdaycontest.asp


FLOW 5K
When: Saturday, March 7 5K race begins at 9am
Where: Carrier Park on Amboy Road. Click here for map.
What: Asheville Middle School is hosting a 5K walk/run and 1 Mile Fun Run to benefit RiverLink as part of their For the Love of Water (FLOW) unit of study on water.

The race serves as the culminating event for the 8th grade student class who will also be participating in several community service projects focusing on water conservation and protection.

More info at: http://www.riverlink.org/FLOW5KRacetoBenefitRiverLink.asp

Chuck E Cheese Coupons

RiverLink ~ Outdoor Education Days

Outdoor Education Days

Starting March 6, visitors to Carrier Park from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. every first and third Friday will have a chance to enrich their experience through free outdoor classroom experiences led by expert educators.

RiverLink, The North Carolina Arboretum, and RENCI will offer Outdoor Education Days, a perfect opportunity for families to play and release their energy in a positive and educational way. Staff and volunteers will arrive in the parking lot next to the wetlands with the ROVER, a mobile technology van and will be equipped with waders, nets, trays, binoculars, microscopes, and all equipment necessary for studying our amazing places in Western NC.

The program is free and open to the public and runs every 1st and 3rd Friday through the end of May. Outdoor Education Days is a collaborative partnership between RiverLink and The North Carolina Arboretum that seeks to involve the community in sustainability issues, watershed education, and environmental awareness.

For more information, contact Ashley Brown at 828-252-8474x111 (education@riverlink.org), or Benjamin Colvin at 828-665-2492x224 (bcolvin@ncarboretum.org).




(This photograph is by Krisit Hedberg, photographer at www.kristihedbergphotography.com and river portrait photographer for our Earth Day Art Contest Event).

RiverLink ~ French Broad River Camps

French Broad River Camps

Treat your kids to an adventurous and affordable summer camp experience with RiverLink’s French Broad River Camps. RiverCamps is tailored to rising 3rd-8th graders, costs $225 per camper, and combines river recreation, environmental education, and service learning. Your children will have the opportunity to plant trees, raft the French Broad, learn about water quality through interactive models and games, and much more!






To register and for more information, check out our website at
http://www.riverlink.org/camps.asp or email the Ashley Brown, Camp Director at education@riverlink.org

Kid Friendly Asheville Wants You!

Kid Friendly Asheville would LOVE you to send FAMILY FUN PICTURES to post on our website! We will add them to our Flickr account and they will rotate on the very top of the page!

Just email them to

AshevilleKids(at)aol(dot)com

Do you want to share something KID FRIENDLY with everyone? Email us the details, a website if applicable and a phone number just in case there are question and we will post them on KFA.

AshevilleKids(at)aol(dot)com

Kid Friendly Asheville is all about sharing KID FRIENDLY FAMILY FUN with YOU!

NATURE CENTER NEWS -- Summer Camp Registration

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION BEGINS
FOR FRIENDS MEMBERS

Sunday, March 1st at 8 a.m.

To participate in early registration, your Friends membership must be renewed by Wednesday, February 25th!



Pioneer Camp

You can renew online or by coming in to update your membership by the 25th.

On the 1st, you must have your camp registration form completed and in hand along with your Friends membership card and a credit card or check made payable to the WNC Nature Center.

Camps will be filled in the following order:

1) Those registrations brought in the 1st by current Friends members

2) Those registrations mailed in by current Friends members and received at the Nature Center before or on Monday, March 2nd.

3) Non-member registrations


For more information, please contact Keith Mastin, Education Curator at ext. 305

The Rainbow Well in Asheville, North Carolina

Creativity Day Camp this Saturday! Come join us this Saturday, February 28, for our next exciting Creativity Day Camp! The morning session (10:00 - 2:00) features: Introduction to children's meditation practice Diane English (www.greatcosmichappyass.com) with fun and inspiring card making (See Left) Music playing and dancing Pizza Making (and eating!) Celebrating Maureen's Birthday! From now until June, The Rainbow Well is offering special discounted pricing for the Day Camps. $45 a session (down from $65). Email Maureen@therainbowwell.com or call 828-505-0383 to register (limited space!) Visit www.therainbowwell.com for more information.

The Rainbow Well • 26 Howland Road • Asheville • NC • 28804

Asheville Pizza Company on Merrimon.

Tuesday nights are always Family Night

Come see us Tuesday for dinner & board games, see The Balloon Guy in action! Family dinner specials as well as free sundaes for the kiddies EVERY Tuesday from 5:00p-8:00p

GIVEAWAY!!! ~ ITZABITZA where your drawings come to life.

The great people at ItzaBitza gave me TWO games. One to review and ONE to giveaway!

Go here to enter!!!

The Hop, Coffee Break with Asheville Mommies

Tuesday at The Hop on Merrimon Avenue 11am-noon.

Go enjoy a 1/2 off cup of coffee.

Tot Time at Fun Depot

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 11-4
Get one FREE Soft Play with purchase of an Adult Combo Meal.

We really enjoy Fun Depot. I love the burgers and the kids love the grill cheese and pizza!!! It's a great place to meet friends so the kids can play!

Click on the calendar to see all the February FUN!!!

My Mom's Having a Baby.

My Mom's Having a Baby.
February 23, 2009


Sibling Class & Tour

A special program to help older children understand, accept, and anticipate the changes that will happen as the family prepares for the birth of the new baby. Each child will:

• See and hold life-like models that show how a baby grows and develops
• Make a kite mobile for the new baby's room
• Receive an activity/coloring book that encourages the older child to explore and express feelings about the new baby
• Tour the Mother/Baby Unit at Mission Hospital to see where mom and baby will stay

Children should be accompanied by an adult.

WHEN: Mondays from 4 to 5 PM
WHERE: Mission Hospital (Program meets at Mission Information Desk)
WHO: Children ages 3 to 8 years old (children over the age of 8 may attend the adult tour with their parent/s)
COST: Free
TO REGISTER: Call (828) 254-6373, Ext. 329

Local Libraries offer Free FUN!

Story Time at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. We have Storytimes for every age group:

• School-age story times are for 5 to 7 year olds
• Preschool story times are geared towards 3-5 year-olds and include singing, stretchers, and creative activities.
• Toddler Times are interactive story times for children ages 18 months to 3 years.
• Mother Goose Time is a lively language enrichment story time serving our youngest folks--the 4 month-old to 18 month-old set.

Many libraries can accommodate groups or school field trips if arrangements are made in advance. West Asheville Library provides Spanish Story Times on request. Call any library for more information on the children’s programs available or email library@buncombecounty.org.

You may also check out Storytimes and Toddler Times by going to our library locations page and searching by library branch.

School Age Story Times (for 5 to 7 Year Olds)

Wednesdays
Pack Memorial	10:00 am (Sept. through May)
Thursdays
North Asheville	3:30 pm

Story Times (for 3 to 5 year olds)

Tuesdays
Weaverville	11:00 am (1st & 3rd Tuesdays)
Wednesdays
Black Mountain	10:30 am
East Asheville	11:00 am
Enka - Candler	10:30 am
Leicester	10:30 am
North Asheville	11:00 am
Oakley / South Asheville	10:00 am
Pack Memorial	11:00 am
Thursdays
Fairview	10:30 am
Skyland / South Buncombe	10:30 am
Swannanoa	11:00 am
West Asheville	11:00 am
Saturdays
East Asheville	11:00 am

Toddler Times

(for 18 to 36 month— olds)

Tuesdays
Leicester	11:00 am
Wednesdays
Fairview	10:30 am
North Asheville	10:00 am
Skyland / South Buncombe	10:30 am
Swannanoa	10:00 am
West Asheville	11:00 am
Thursdays
Black Mountain	10:30 am
Enka - Candler	10:30 am
Pack Memorial	10:00 & 11:00 am
Weaverville	11:00 am (2nd & 4th Thursdays)

Mother Goose Time

- for 4 to 18 month olds

Mondays
West Asheville	11:00 am
Tuesdays
Pack Memorial	10:00 am (for walkers)
Pack Memorial	11:00 am (for non-walkers)
Fairview	10:30 am
Wednesdays
Swannanoa	11:00 am
Weaverville	11:00 am (2nd & 4th Wednesdays)
Thursdays
Oakley	11:00 am

Bowl for Kids' Sake TODAY!!!!!!

Bowl for Kids' Sake 2009

TODAY!!!!! KFA would love pictures of this event!!!! Please email them to AshevilleKids(at)aol(dot)com.

Chuck E Cheese Coupons

The Health Adventure ~ Super Science Saturday

Super Science Saturday -Robots Workshop

When:
Sat Feb 21 12pm – 2pm

Where:
The Health Adventure

Come participate in a neat interactive activity that is well… a surprise!

Growing Young Cafe

This week at Growing Young Cafe.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9-5:30.
Drop-in childcare from 10-12, Mon.-Fri. (other times by appointment, all ages)

22 available for space rental

23 Storytime 11&4

24 Painting 10-12 Lego-maniacs Club 3-5 NEEDLE-FELTING 3:30

25 watercolors 10-12

26 playdoh fun! 10-12 NEW! Middle School Open Mike 5:30-7:30

27 Kidercize 11&3 Cocktails and Crafts 4-6

28 private birthday party

We are available for after-hours space rental for birthday parties, baby showers, and special events. Contact Tonya at (828) 299-4420 for more information, or visit our website at www.growingyoungcafe.com for details on any of the events below.

Tom's of Maine & Mission Hospital's Dental Promotion

Tom’s of Maine & Mission Hospital’s Dental Promotion at Earth Fare in West Asheville.

02/21/09
11-3 PM

Earth Fare is partnering with Tom’s of Maine & Mission Children’s Dental Program to promote “Dental for All” campaign. This special event will raise awareness and much needed funds for Mission Children’s Dental. Mission’s Tooth Bus travels to local counties where there are not dental or health clinics provided. They provide dentistry to under privileged children free of charge. Support your local clinic by donating a toothbrush or by purchasing a $2 or $5 donation ticket at any Earth Fare cash register lane. Mission & Tom’s will be giving away educational materials about snack choices and proper tooth brushing techniques, free products and chances to win a Tom’s gift basket from 11-3 pm.

Free baby blanket & stuffed animal from Babies One Step

Just found this offer and wanted to share!!!

In exchange for your mailing info and the answering of a few questions Babies One Step will send a free baby blanket and stuffed animal. You even get to choose the stuffed animal of your choice: Bear, Lamb, or Pig. Made by PiccoloBambino, these items are made of the softest material ever and offer no hazards for your sweet little one. Keep for yourself or add to a baby shower gift basket. Offer valid through 03/15/2009 or while supplies last.

* Hot deals expire quickly. This deal may no longer be valid.

Kid Friendly Asheville Wants You!

Kid Friendly Asheville would LOVE you to send FAMILY FUN PICTURES to post on our website! We will add them to our Flickr account and they will rotate on the very top of the page!

Just email them to

AshevilleKids(at)aol(dot)com

Do you want to share something KID FRIENDLY with everyone? Email us the details, a website if applicable and a phone number just in case there are question and we will post them on KFA.

AshevilleKids(at)aol(dot)com

Kid Friendly Asheville is all about sharing KID FRIENDLY FAMILY FUN with YOU!

Plan a game night at your house.

Kid Friendly Asheville believes in quality family fun!

You don't always have to leave your house for Kid Friendly Family Fun.

How about starting a tradition with your children or grandchildren?? Plan a game night. Children as young as three even enjoy this family fun.

If you plan on inviting more family and friends to your family fun here are a few ideas to make your night a big success.

Set up a Kid Friendly table. At our house the Dora table works perfectly. Just the right size for small children to use for their games. Younger children can play Memory, Dominoes (with pictures), Sorry, Candyland and many more. They don't have to really follow the rules. Let them make the rules up themselves. Just let the younger kids enjoy the fun!

You can let the older kids play with the adults. They like being included in the grown up fun.

Adult (kid friendly) games to think about playing: Monopoly, Trivia Pursuit, Upwords, Scrabble, Dominoes, Clue, Scatagories, Cranium and many more. It's a good idea to pair a child with an adult and play in pairs. That way the child doesn't get overwhelmed and think they cannot play the game as good as the adults.

No matter the game, your family will enjoy it. Be prepared to laugh and make lots of great memories for your family and friends.


****If you have a family tradition to share with us just send us an email
AshevilleKids(at)aol(dot) com****

We'd love to hear about it and post it on KFA!

Volunteer project "Kids Care" on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009.

Volunteer project "Kids Care" on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009 from 10 am - 11:15 am.

Kids Care

Kids are eager and excited to give to others, but it can sometimes be difficult to find age appropriate volunteer activities for children. Each month's project will involve an age-appropriate learning component and a hands-on craft activity. Finished crafts will be given away to others in our community. This project is geared towards 5-12 year olds. Parents or guardians are required to stay on site with their children.

Contact Laresa Fair at United Way to sign-up.

Do you want to put your link ad on Kid Friendly Asheville?

This blog is now accepting approved paid advertisements.

There will be a special "Paid Advertisements" section where we will be adding approved links at this time.

Example:

Paid Advertisements:


-The Adventures of Supermom
A blog about raising four kids and staying sane.

I have a PayPal account set up! Just jot me an email and I am sure we can work something out! I am even open to barter!!!!!

Local Libraries offer Free FUN!

Story Time at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. We have Storytimes for every age group:

• School-age story times are for 5 to 7 year olds
• Preschool story times are geared towards 3-5 year-olds and include singing, stretchers, and creative activities.
• Toddler Times are interactive story times for children ages 18 months to 3 years.
• Mother Goose Time is a lively language enrichment story time serving our youngest folks--the 4 month-old to 18 month-old set.

Many libraries can accommodate groups or school field trips if arrangements are made in advance. West Asheville Library provides Spanish Story Times on request. Call any library for more information on the children’s programs available or email library@buncombecounty.org.

You may also check out Storytimes and Toddler Times by going to our library locations page and searching by library branch.

School Age Story Times (for 5 to 7 Year Olds)

Wednesdays
Pack Memorial	10:00 am (Sept. through May)
Thursdays
North Asheville	3:30 pm

Story Times (for 3 to 5 year olds)

Tuesdays
Weaverville	11:00 am (1st & 3rd Tuesdays)
Wednesdays
Black Mountain	10:30 am
East Asheville	11:00 am
Enka - Candler	10:30 am
Leicester	10:30 am
North Asheville	11:00 am
Oakley / South Asheville	10:00 am
Pack Memorial	11:00 am
Thursdays
Fairview	10:30 am
Skyland / South Buncombe	10:30 am
Swannanoa	11:00 am
West Asheville	11:00 am
Saturdays
East Asheville	11:00 am

Toddler Times

(for 18 to 36 month— olds)

Tuesdays
Leicester	11:00 am
Wednesdays
Fairview	10:30 am
North Asheville	10:00 am
Skyland / South Buncombe	10:30 am
Swannanoa	10:00 am
West Asheville	11:00 am
Thursdays
Black Mountain	10:30 am
Enka - Candler	10:30 am
Pack Memorial	10:00 & 11:00 am
Weaverville	11:00 am (2nd & 4th Thursdays)

Mother Goose Time

- for 4 to 18 month olds

Mondays
West Asheville	11:00 am
Tuesdays
Pack Memorial	10:00 am (for walkers)
Pack Memorial	11:00 am (for non-walkers)
Fairview	10:30 am
Wednesdays
Swannanoa	11:00 am
Weaverville	11:00 am (2nd & 4th Wednesdays)
Thursdays
Oakley	11:00 am

We are planning a play date at Growing Young Cafe on Thursday!

KFA is heading to Growing Young Cafe on Thursday for Play-doh FUN!!!!! We will be there from 10-12 hanging out drinking coffee while the kids run free!!!!

We invited my sister with her daughter, my friend Rachel with her daughter, my friend Anna with her daughter and YOU!

It will be a nice chance to mingle and enjoy coffee!!!

Asheville Pizza Company on Merrimon.

Tuesday nights are always Family Night

Come see us Tuesday for dinner & board games, see The Balloon Guy in action! Family dinner specials as well as free sundaes for the kiddies EVERY Tuesday from 5:00p-8:00p

The Hop, Coffee Break with Asheville Mommies

Tuesday at The Hop on Merrimon Avenue 11am-noon.

Go enjoy a 1/2 off cup of coffee.

Tot Time at Fun Depot

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 11-4
Get one FREE Soft Play with purchase of an Adult Combo Meal.

We really enjoy Fun Depot. I love the burgers and the kids love the grill cheese and pizza!!! It's a great place to meet friends so the kids can play!

Click on the calendar to see all the February FUN!!!

The North Carolina Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum
February 2009

Nature Activities for Kids. Families can stop by the Baker Exhibit Center Information Desk and check out a Discovery Day Pack. Packs include binoculars, bug boxes and other items children can use to explore the Arboretum's trails and gardens.
9 am to 5 pm Monday-Saturday
Noon to 5 pm Sunday

Events and activities are free unless noted; usual parking fees apply. No parking fee on Tuesdays. For listings of our current educational program offerings and special events, please visit www.ncarboretum.org

Growing Young Cafe

This week at Growing Young Cafe.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9-5:30.
Drop-in childcare from 10-12, Mon.-Fri. (other times by appointment, all ages)

16 Storytime 11&4

17 Painting 10-12 Lego-maniacs Club 3-5

18 watercolors 10-12 Family Knitting Circle 3:30-4:30

19 playdoh fun! 10-12 BOOK SWAP 9-12, 5-7

20 Kidercize 11& 3 Cocktails and Crafts 4-6

21 available for space rental

We are available for after-hours space rental for birthday parties, baby showers, and special events. Contact Tonya at (828) 299-4420 for more information, or visit our website at www.growingyoungcafe.com for details on any of the events below.

Planning a birthday party on a budget.

With four kids in the house it feels like we are always working on a birthday party. Or holiday. Or really anything.

Right now we are planning a 4th birthday party on a budget. Last year she wanted her party at Chuck E Cheese so all we had to do was show up. The ease of the party also cost us a small fortune.

Cost of the party. Add extra food and more tokens. CHA-CHING!

Since we are compacting I am going for a more practical approach to this memorable birthday bash.

First, the cheapest route would be having the party at home. Or even a grandparents house.

Second, not buying character themed accessories. Like plates, napkins and cups.

If you must buy a product with a character on then buy things like a tablecloth, party hats and the cake to match. (Just pick out a few of the cheaper items.)

The rest can be a coordinating color and can be found at the $1.00 Store! BONUS!!!!

This year I am planning my daughters birthday party after one of her favorite board games.

CANDYLAND!



There are so many possibilities with this game.

Gumdrops. Ice Cream Cones. Peppermint Sticks. Lollipops!!

We sat down and made a list then we hit the 1.00 Store. I took some of the playing cards so my daughter could match up the colors. We were able to purchase everything for her party!!!!!! (Except the cake and candy of course.) We spent about $22.00!!!!! AWESOME in my eyes.

Here's what we were able to find that matched the board.



Red and Purple Plates. Blue napkins. Red forks/spoons. Birthday Cups. Invitations. Purple Tablecloth. Red Streamers. Birthday Candle with the Number 4. Happy Birthday Banner. Treat Bags. Novelties for the Treat Bags ~ tops, cards, crazy straws, rings, stickers, stencils. Sprinkles for the cupcakes.

We can use the game board as a centerpiece on the table. I already have a gumdrop tree!!! Add some lollipops and peppermint sticks and you have the perfect 4th birthday party!!!! Not to mention my idea for making the birthday cake. Which will not be a cake at all but cupcakes in ice cream cones to favor an ice cream treat!! Add some sprinkles and TA DA!!! EXCITING!!!!!!!

I'll be sure to post pictures in March. We have like 3 1/2 weeks until her party!

Flip Flop Hop TONIGHT

It's time for the Flip Flop Hop TONIGHT!!!! KFA would love some pictures from this wonderful event! If you are able to attend please email us LOTS of pictures! AshevilleKids (at) aol(dot)com.

Chuck E Cheese Coupons

Asheville Pizza Company on Merrimon.

For the week of February 13 - February 19

Bolt and Twilight.

Hands on Asheville-Buncombe, a United Way Program

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe, a program of United Way, makes it easy to lend a hand and help others in our community by volunteering with local nonprofits. Visit www.handsonasheville.org and choose the volunteer opportunity that works for you: your passions, your skills, your schedule. Volunteer on your own or with your family, business, or faith community. The following Hands On Managed Projects are led by a trained volunteer Project Coordinator in connection with Hands On and a Partner Agency. Most of these projects last 2-4 hours are generally held on evenings and weekends and do not require a long-term commitment. For more information, and to sign-up, simply click on the project name below.


Meals for Hope
New Choices is an empowerment program for displaced homemakers in need of counseling and assistance in order to achieve economic self-sufficiency. Volunteers assist in cooking and serving a meal for 15-25 women and children attending its bi-weekly meetings. YWCA provides all supplies.
Project Dates& Times: 2/26 (Thursdays); 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Requirements: 2-4 needed; ages 16+ welcome; (13+ with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


Pack & Sort at MANNA
Help sort and pack food at MANNA Food Bank to be given to agencies serving hungry people in 17 Western North Carolina counties.
Project Date & Time: 2/14 (Saturday); 1:00-3:00pm
Requirements: 5-20 needed; ages 16+ welcome (5+ with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


Cooking for Comfort
Show support to hospice patients and their families by cooking and serving a meal
at the John Keever Solace Center. This is a wonderful way to nurture these families and give them an opportunity to support one another while dining on a home-cooked meal.
Project Date & Time: 2/21 (Saturday); 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Requirements: 5-7 needed; age 18+ welcome; (14+ with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


Fair-Trade Stock-Up
Ten Thousand Villages is a non-profit, fair-trade retail store that sells handcrafted items made by artisans in more than 30 developing countries providing them with much needed income. Volunteers will assist with unpacking and pricing the merchandise so it can be placed on the sales floor.
Project Date & Time: 2/14 (Saturday); 1:00-4:00pm
2/26 (Thursday); 4:00-6:00pm
Requirements: 2-5 needed; ages 16+ welcome (ages 14-15 with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


Kids Care
Kids are eager and excited to give to others, but it can sometimes be difficult to find age appropriate volunteer activities for children. Each month's project will involve an age-appropriate learning component and a hands-on craft activity. Finished crafts will be given away to others in our community. This project is geared towards 5-12 year olds. Parents or guardians are required to stay onsite with their children.
Project Date & Time: 2/28 (Saturday); 10:00-11:15am
Requirements: 4-10 needed; ages 16+ welcome (0-5 with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


Knit-n-Give
Are you looking for an excuse to knit or crochet on a Sunday afternoon? Look no further! Help make hats to be given to newborns served by the Buncombe County Health Center's Community Health Program. These hand-knitted hats are
treasured by the client families and help provide incentive to keep important
appointments with Community Health Nurses. All skill levels welcome!
Project Date & Time: 2/22 (Sunday); 2:00-4:00pm
Requirements: 6-10 needed; ages 16+ welcome (12-15 with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


Second Bloom
Share the love this Valentine's Day by making flower bouquets for local nursing home residents. With the help of volunteers, Second Bloom collects and
recycles flowers from area florists and businesses that are headed to the landfill and passes them on to nursing home residents, rehab centers and Hospice.
Project Date & Time: 2/14 (Saturday); 10:00am-12:00pm
Requirements: 2-4 needed; ages 18+ welcome (6-17with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.

RiverLink

Celebrating the French Broad River: Earth Day Art Contest

RiverLink presents an art contest for preK-12th graders in the French Broad Watershed. Categories are divided by 2D, 3D and poetry as well as grade level. Awards include your art on display at Pack Place Community Gallery or REI, Free 2 person Paddle Trip Passes, publication in our newsletter, tabloid, and website, and other potential prizes from art, toy, and outdoor stores! Submission deadline March 18th.

Visit this website for more information on how to enter your piece today: http://www.riverlink.org/earthdaycontest.asp


FLOW 5K
When: Saturday, March 7 5K race begins at 9am
Where: Carrier Park on Amboy Road. Click here for map.
What: Asheville Middle School is hosting a 5K walk/run and 1 Mile Fun Run to benefit RiverLink as part of their For the Love of Water (FLOW) unit of study on water.

The race serves as the culminating event for the 8th grade student class who will also be participating in several community service projects focusing on water conservation and protection.

More info at: http://www.riverlink.org/FLOW5KRacetoBenefitRiverLink.asp

Kid Friendly Asheville Wants You!

Kid Friendly Asheville would LOVE you to send FAMILY FUN PICTURES to post on our website! We will add them to our Flickr account and they will rotate on the very top of the page!

Just email them to

AshevilleKids(at)aol(dot)com

Do you want to share something KID FRIENDLY with everyone? Email us the details, a website if applicable and a phone number just in case there are question and we will post them on KFA.

AshevilleKids(at)aol(dot)com

Kid Friendly Asheville is all about sharing KID FRIENDLY FAMILY FUN with YOU!

Fired up! ~ Parents' Night Out

Fired up! Creative Lounge is offering a Parents' Night Out on Friday, February 13, 2009, 6 pm -9:30 pm.

Drop off your kids and go spend time together!!!!!!! They are providing pizza, drinks, and items for the kids to paint.

$25.00 per child.

Call ahead 828-253-8181 for RESERVATIONS!!!!
Space is limited so call if you are interested!!!!

The Health Adventure ~ Girl Scout Explore Day

Girl Scout Explore Day

When:
Thu Feb 12 3:30 - 5pm

Where:
The Health Adventure

Come and explore the museum at a reduced rate! Meet other Girl Scouts as you have fun at the museum! This event is for girl scouts of any age!!

Please call 828-254-6373 for more information!!

The Health Adventure ~ Origami Folding Frenzy

Origami Folding Frenzy!

When:
Wed Feb 11 4pm – 5pm

Where:
The Health Adventure

Join us from 4PM until 5PM to learn new folds, share favorites, and meeet fellow origami enthusiasts. All levels welcome. Become a regular "Four O'Clock Folder" at The Health Adventure. Paper is available at our museum store or you can bring your own. The cost is the price of admission to The Health Adventure.

FREE American Baby magazine subscription.

Courtesy of Parents.com, new moms and moms to be can request a free subscription to American Baby magazine. Each month you'll receive great tips and information from leading experts on everything from eating right for you and your baby to parenting. Offer ending unknown.

* Hot deals expire quickly. This deal may no longer be valid.

Local Libraries offer Free FUN!

Story Time at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. We have Storytimes for every age group:

• School-age story times are for 5 to 7 year olds
• Preschool story times are geared towards 3-5 year-olds and include singing, stretchers, and creative activities.
• Toddler Times are interactive story times for children ages 18 months to 3 years.
• Mother Goose Time is a lively language enrichment story time serving our youngest folks--the 4 month-old to 18 month-old set.

Many libraries can accommodate groups or school field trips if arrangements are made in advance. West Asheville Library provides Spanish Story Times on request. Call any library for more information on the children’s programs available or email library@buncombecounty.org.

You may also check out Storytimes and Toddler Times by going to our library locations page and searching by library branch.

School Age Story Times (for 5 to 7 Year Olds)

Wednesdays
Pack Memorial	10:00 am (Sept. through May)
Thursdays
North Asheville	3:30 pm

Story Times (for 3 to 5 year olds)

Tuesdays
Weaverville	11:00 am (1st & 3rd Tuesdays)
Wednesdays
Black Mountain	10:30 am
East Asheville	11:00 am
Enka - Candler	10:30 am
Leicester	10:30 am
North Asheville	11:00 am
Oakley / South Asheville	10:00 am
Pack Memorial	11:00 am
Thursdays
Fairview	10:30 am
Skyland / South Buncombe	10:30 am
Swannanoa	11:00 am
West Asheville	11:00 am
Saturdays
East Asheville	11:00 am

Toddler Times

(for 18 to 36 month— olds)

Tuesdays
Leicester	11:00 am
Wednesdays
Fairview	10:30 am
North Asheville	10:00 am
Skyland / South Buncombe	10:30 am
Swannanoa	10:00 am
West Asheville	11:00 am
Thursdays
Black Mountain	10:30 am
Enka - Candler	10:30 am
Pack Memorial	10:00 & 11:00 am
Weaverville	11:00 am (2nd & 4th Thursdays)

Mother Goose Time

- for 4 to 18 month olds

Mondays
West Asheville	11:00 am
Tuesdays
Pack Memorial	10:00 am (for walkers)
Pack Memorial	11:00 am (for non-walkers)
Fairview	10:30 am
Wednesdays
Swannanoa	11:00 am
Weaverville	11:00 am (2nd & 4th Wednesdays)
Thursdays
Oakley	11:00 am

The Health Adventure ~ Home School Happenings

Home School Happenings

When:
Wed Feb 11 1:30pm – 2:30pm

Where:
The Health Adventure

For more information about specific topics for different ages, please see "Programs" on the left menu, or call Shannon Edwards at 828-254-6373 ext 316!

The Rainbow Well Valentine's Day Camp

We are having a special themed VALENTINE'S DAY camp for children with a
beginning meditation on loving kindness, make-your-own organic lunch with
pasta (learning how to love what you put into yourself) as well as JEWELRY
MAKING in the AM Session (10 Am - 2 PM). Kelly Durian, Jewelry Maker

In the PM Session, we will have a Drumming Session with Brian from
Asheville Creative Music (www.ashevillecreativemusic.com). We will learn
about the beating of our hearts and rhythm of our lives. Plus we will
have some creative time painting and learning about growing thankfulness
(i.e. Planting Seeds, Gratitude Stones, Nature Walks and more). PM
Session (2pm - 6pm)

Included: Creativity Camper Assessment (for parents), Art Supplies, Child
Expertise, Professional Rotating Musicians/Artists, Camper Wish Journal,
Organic Lunch (AM) or Snack (PM), Take-home projects and more!

To Register: 828-505-0383 or maureen@therainbowwell.com

Costs: $65 a session, $100 full day or 4pack discounts

Maureen Healy (BA, MBA, MA) has more than 15 years of experience in
creative child development. She facilitates these Day Camps with special
guests as well as conducts 1:1 sessions with children at the Center. The
Rainbow Well is located in North Asheville off of Charlotte Street.

Babies 'n' Beer

The Thirsty Monk
92 Patton Avenue
Downtown Asheville

Bring your babies and have a beer in a baby friendly outing and meet other parents!

Tuesdays 4pm-7pm

Fired up! ~ Parents' Night Out

Fired up! Creative Lounge is offering a Parents' Night Out on Friday, February 13, 2009, 6 pm -9:30 pm.

Drop off your kids and go spend time together!!!!!!! They are providing pizza, drinks, and items for the kids to paint.

$25.00 per child.

Call ahead 828-253-8181 for RESERVATIONS!!!!
Space is limited so call if you are interested!!!!

Asheville Pizza Company on Merrimon.

Tuesday nights are always Family Night

Come see us Tuesday for dinner & board games, see The Balloon Guy in action! Family dinner specials as well as free sundaes for the kiddies EVERY Tuesday from 5:00p-8:00p

The Rainbow Well in Asheville, North Carolina

For the love of art "Receive the children in reverence; educate them in love; let them go forth in freedom" - Steiner Art is the language of children. Teaching them more ways to love themselves, their friends, communities and world via art is powerful to me. I am always reminded to love myself more this month too - not just because of Valentine's Day but because my birthday is always looming! And as we get gracefully (hopefully) older it always feels like a new lesson of love is birthed within us. Learning to love our children more, our pets, husbands, wives, boyfriends and world just a wee bit more -- despite their always and joyful imperfections is a real lesson. Here's to you and me learning this lesson more and more each day in February! ~ Maureen, Founder of The Rainbow Well And for your children - check out our upcoming February (and beyond) events below... Creativity Day Camps Come and play at our CREATIVITY DAY CAMPS! February is sure to hold some extra special fun and creative freedom. Each Creativity Day Camp is specially designed to nurture your child's unique creative expression via MUSIC, ART, WORDS and more! Maureen brings professional rotating musicians and artists in to inspire your child's talents. Camps held 2nd and 4th Saturday monthly. Full day or by AM/PM session available. February camp dates: * February 14th - Yes, it's a Valentines Day Camp! AM Session: (10 AM - 2 PM) - Our special morning program features beginning mediation on loving kindness designed especially for children, a section also of making our own organic pasta lunch & learning to love what we put into ourselves as well as some time spent JEWELRY MAKING with special beads infused with creative self-love. Our special jewelry maker is: Kelly Durian PM Session: (2pm - 6pm) - Our afternoon event is chockful of MUSIC with Brian, a special drummer who founded Asheville Creative Music (www.ashevillecreativemusic.com). We are going to drum to better understand the beating of our heart and rhythm of our lives. Plus there will be much creative fun as well painting and learning about growing giftedness (i.e. Gratitude Rocks, Painting take-home projects of Sunflower seeds to grow into Spring). * February 28th - Yes, it's a Birthday Camp! Okay, not really --- but there will be celebrating of Maureen's 37th Birthday. AM Session (10 AM - 2pm) - Our very special guest, Diane English (www.greatcosmichappyass.com) is a card designer that will work with the children to make cards and creative endeavors with paints, clay, crayons and more! She is incredibly talented and this day will sure to inspire your child's unique creative expression. PM Session (2pm - 6pm) - This afternoon is filled to the brim with MUSIC - a very special bluegrass band will be created for all of us to participate in with drums, banjos, washboard sounds and more! Ms. Thiesling, banjo extraordinaire will lead the program with our very special guest - Martin Hougtaling from the Asheville Symphony Orchestra jamming with us as well (http://www.ashevillesymphony.org/about/musicians). SIGN UP DETAILS: - $65 a session, $100 full day camp and 4-pack discounts available - To register: E-mail: maureen@therainbowwell.com or call 828-505-0383 (Limited Space - Registration Required) - More Information: www.therainbowwell.com - Center Location: 26 Howland Road, Asheville NC 28804 - Included: Creativity Camper Assessment (for parents), Art Supplies, Art Direction, Child Expertise, Rotating professional musicians/artists, Camper Journal, Organic Lunch or Snack, New Friends and more. Transformative Art Using art to empower and transform the lives of children has been a theme of 2009. Maureen has expanded her practice to focus upon providing more individual therapeutic sessions with children. Many children come to gain skills of emotional health as they face challenging situations such as: loss, new school, disappointment, illness, trauma, upsets, everyday frustrations and more. More information: 828-505-0383 or maureen@therainbowwell.com More News ART CLASSES: Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3 PM - 6 PM are drop-in art classes led by Maureen Healy and Kelly Durian. Registration Needed. $25 per class with discounts on buying multiple sessions ($25 per class, $5 off for 2 classes, $10 off for 3 classes, $15 off for 4 classes and $20 off for 5 classes). To register: Kelly Durian at kelly@therainbowwell.com or 828-505-0383 PRESS: In the February 2009 edition of The Laurel magazine, Maureen's article "Creative Child Development" is featured on page 54 (www.thelaurelofasheville.com). Next month, Verve magazine (www.vervemag.com) will feature a travel essay about Maureen's trip whereas she created a creative arts program for Tibetan refugee children in 2007. Maureen is also featured weekly on Psychology Today's online site as a blogger for Child Development (www.psychologytoday.com). ; Spirituality & Health magazine will also feature a Parenting Article by Maureen in the next edition (www.spirituality-health.com). UPCOMING: * SUMMER CAMP -- All weekend Creativity Camps focused upon nurturing a child's unique creative expression are to be held in June and August in North Asheville. * Field Trip -- In Fall, Equinection and The Rainbow Well will host a full day camp up in Green Mountain for children to experience the creative arts as well as learn to be with horses (www.equinection.org) * Field Trip -- Hot Air Balloon Event this summer with children and families The Rainbow Well also wants to hear from you! Tell us what you think or want in upcoming programs. www.therainbowwell.com 828-505-0383

The Rainbow Well • 26 Howland Road • Asheville • NC • 28804