WNCAP ~ Dining Out For Life

Dine at one of over 90 restaurants in Western North Carolina, and 20% of your total bill will be donated to the Western North Carolina AIDS Project. Please help us continue our Education and Prevention services throughout WNC and help insure that no one faces HIV alone by dining out for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is the most satisfying meal you will ever eat!

TODAY!!!!! April 30, 2009

Participating Restaurants

Bicycle Rodeo ~ YMCA's Healthy Kids Day Event

Healthy Buncombe is putting on several kids bicycle skill training sessions this spring. These bicycle rodeos have been developed by the League of American Bicyclists through a grant from the National Bicycle Dealer's Association. A few local Asheville bicycle advocates have been trained and in turned trained volunteers to assist in putting on the spring series.

One of the Healthy Buncombe goals is make it safer for children to walk and bike to school and when it is safe we want these children to demonstrate appropriate riding behaviors so they will to safely get themselves to school, go to their friend's home or do their errands. These skills will also help them when they become safer drivers when they are older.

Saturday, May 2 in Black Mountain at the Elementary School from 10:00 - 2:00

First Annual International Children's Festival at Vance Elementary!

Vance Elementary is proud to announce the First Annual International Children's Festival on Saturday, May 2 from 11-3. We will be honoring children around the the globe and Vance Elementary's magnet theme of Ecology and Human Diversity by bringing the cultures of the world right to our doorstep here in West Asheville! All families are welcome to join us in celebrating the diverse cultures of the world population.

All seven continents will be represented at the International Children's Festival. Kids will receive a passport when they arrive and can spend the day traveling from continent to continent playing games, making crafts and collecting stamps in their passports. From roasted corn and a baseball toss in North America to stir fry and a fish slap in Asia to home made tamales and sopapillas from our vibrant Latino population, the world will be yours to explore!

In addition to the international games and crafts, families will be treated to music and dance from around the world on the main stage. We will also have a dunking tank, colorful helium balloons and, of course, the traditional large inflatables that a Vance festival couldn't be without! The event will culminate in a multi-cultural parade where children can show off the costumes and play the instruments they will have the opportunity to make throughout the festival. International costumes of all kinds from home are encouraged as well.

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!

Chuck E Cheese Coupons for April!

Just click on image to make bigger.

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

Spellbound Children's Bookshop ~ Mother's Day Craft Workshop

Spellbound Children's Bookshop

Sunday, May 3 at 1:00pm

Mother's Day Craft Workshop
Get some help making a very personal gift for Mother's Day: a book all about Mom! We'll provide the materials for this project and there is no cost to attend, but registration is required so that we can make sure we have enough space and materials. Ages 5 and up only, please.

Sunday, May 10 is Mother's Day

19 Wall Street, Asheville, NC 28801 • Phone: 828-232-2228
Hours: 10 am - 6 pm Tuesday - Saturday, 1 - 6 pm Sundays

Candy Stick Lane ~ Homemade boutique clothing at its BEST!

Asheville has a very talented woman who makes boutique clothing for little girls!!! I actually went to school with Renee! I found her on Facebook last week and was in total shock about her talent!! She has magic hands!! I wanted to tell everyone about Candy Stick Lane. You should too!!!!

If you'd like to help spread the word about an Asheville Native and her homemade boutique clothing please feel free to pass this around. You can even COPY & PASTE it to your blog! Let's show our support and tell everyone about Renee and Candy Stick Lane!!!

Introducing Candy Stick Lane:





Isn't she amazing?!?!?!? Now don't you agree that we need to get the word out about Candy Stick Lane?!?!?!?

Would you like to meet the beautiful talented Renee?



This is Renee and her three wonderful children, four if you count Hope the dog. Her oldest daughter was her inspiration!!! How awesome is that?? Here's the bio that Renee sent me. Enjoy!

My name is Renee Eggleston - I design and construct boutique clothing for sizes NB-12 Years. I am a 33 year old single mother of 3. I have been making boutique clothing for little girls for the last 16 years and it is truly a labor of love. Ebay has been my venue since 2001 and I just joined Etsy in 2006.

I taught myself to sew when my daughter Krystal was born, because I wanted to be able to make her holiday themed outfits. It was a long hard road! I made over 300 items the first year and I only kept a handful and threw the rest away!

I did, however keep a journal and made entries for each garment I made. I noted what worked and what didn't, what notions were friendly and which fabrics worked well with what sewing machine feet! That journal proved to be invaluable and I haven't looked back since!

I love fabric, I have mounds of it in my studio~especially great vintage finds! I'm always on the lookout for any vintage fabrics that I can use. Vintage curtains and bedding are great for recycle into little girly play pieces. I'm always experimenting and learning new techniques, and I share tutorials on my blog candysticklane.blogspot.com and on Saturdays as a guest blogger for EtsyKids.blogspot.com.

People always want to know why I don't make more things for boys and why so many dresses and the simple answer is love dressing little girls and I LOVE dresses. I always have, when I was little, now that I'm grown - nothing is more feminine to me that a cute flattering dress or skirt and they are so much fun to wear.

My Kids are my life! Krystal is 16, Sterling is 10 and Roman is 9. I work full time at Mission Hospitals at Fullerton Genetics Center. I love what I do, but I'm hoping that after some readjustments, I can stay at home at least part time and spend more time sewing and with the kids before they are all grown up! The baby of our family is a 2 year old rescued Pit Bull that we've had since she was 3 days old named Hope - she keeps us all hopping and happy! Our household is very light and festive - we all love music, dancing, jokes and playing hard and we LOVE being around each other.

Links to find Renee and her beautiful clothes:

Candy Stick Lane on ETSY
Candy Stick Lane Blog
Candy Stick Lane on FaceBook
Candy Stick Lane on eBay My World
Candy Stick Lane on Twitter

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

Hands on Asheville-Buncombe, a United Way Program, offers many things for May.

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.

Cookie Night

Help bake homemade cookies for families who are staying at the Lewis Rathbun Center. The Rathbun Center provides free lodging for families from out of town who have a loved one in an area hospital. Supplies will be provided. Just bring some compassion and an appetite (sampling is encouraged!).
Project Date & Time: 5/11 (Monday); 7:00-8:30 pm
Requirements: 2-4 needed; ages 18+ welcome (ages 10-17 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: 5/07 (Thursday); 6:00-8:00pm

5/14 (Thursday); 6:00-8:00pm

5/26 (Tuesday); 6:00-8:00pm

Requirements: 5-20 needed; ages 16+ welcome (5-15 with adult supervision)

Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


Kids Care: 4-6 year olds

Young children have a natural desire to give to others. This project for 4-6 year olds includes an age-appropriate learning component and a hands-on activity to foster a giving spirit. This project is geared towards 4-6 year olds. ***Adult volunteers not needed unless bringing youth participants.***
Project Date & Time: 5/30 (Saturday); 10:00-11:30am

Requirements: 5-20 needed; This project is geared towards 4-6 year olds

Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


Kids Care: 7-12 year olds

Kids are eager and excited to give to others, but it can sometimes be difficult to find age appropriate volunteer activities for children. This is a project where kids are the volunteers! Each month's project will involve an age-appropriate learning component and a hands-on activity. This project is geared towards 7-12 year olds. ***Adult volunteers not needed unless bringing youth participants. *** Parents or guardians are required to stay onsite with their children.
Project Date & Time: 5/16 (Saturday); 9:30-11:00am

Requirements: 5-20 needed; This project is geared towards 7-12 year olds

Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.


In the Garden

Volunteers will be preparing the Emma Community Garden for fertilization, planting, and harvest! Volunteers should wear seasonal work clothes and sturdy shoes. Please bring enthusiasm, sunscreen, and a water bottle.

Project Date & Time: 5/23 (Saturday); 10:00am 1:00pm

Requirements: 5-15 needed; ages 16+ welcome (12-15 with adult supervision)

Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.

Need a place for your next birthday party?

Today we had a birthday party at Asheville Pizza Company on Merrimon Avenue. It was the perfect place to celebrate our son turning 11.

We invited all the family and set up in the game room. Our server was Shannon and she was fabulous!!!! We just sat around. Enjoyed good food. The kids were able to roam around not bothering anyone. We took LOTS of quarters for the games and we didn't hear a peep from them.

I will definitely have another birthday party there. Maybe my own in May.

My Mom's Having a Baby.

Monday, April 27, 4pm – 5pm

Mission Hospital
(enter the hospital at the visitor entrance off Biltmore Avenure. Take G elevators to the 4th floor)

Children ages 3 to 8 years old (children over the age of 8 may attend the adult tour with their parent/s)

Free TO REGISTER: Call (828) 254-6373, Ext. 316

Asheville Pizza Company on Merrimon.

Now showing:

Coraline ~ pg

Mall Cop ~ pg

Asheville's Fun Depot for April.

Hands on Asheville-Buncombe, a United Way Program, offers many things for April.

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: 4/30 (Thursdays); 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Requirements: 2-4 needed; ages 16+ welcome; (13-15 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.
4/30 (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: 7-12 year olds
Kids are eager and excited to give to others, but it can sometimes be difficult to find age appropriate volunteer activities for children. This is a project where kids are the volunteers! This month the kids will partner with Asheville Greenworks to help remove and cover graffiti around Asheville. This project is geared towards 7-12 year olds. ***Adult volunteers not needed unless bringing youth participants.*** Parents or guardians are required to stay onsite with their children.
Project Date & Time: 4/25 (Saturday); 9:00-11:00am
Requirements: 4-10 needed; This project is geared towards 7-12 year olds
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.

In the Garden
Volunteers will be preparing the Emma Community Garden for fertilization, planting, and harvest! Volunteers should wear seasonal work clothes and sturdy shoes. Please bring enthusiasm, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
4/25 (Saturday); 10:00am-1:00pm
Requirements: 5-15 needed; ages 16+ welcome (12-15 with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.

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!

WNCA SPRING GATHERING KICKS OFF.

I found this in my email and wanted to pass it to my readers!

WNCA SPRING GATHERING KICKS OFF
RENEWED FOCUS ON GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY

Western North Carolina Alliance (WNCA) members will gather May 2 to adopt a new strategic plan and to renew the group’s focus on grassroots education and training as a first step toward implementing its new mission: empowering citizens to be advocates for the livable communities and natural environment of Western North Carolina.

Education and training workshops that day will include:

· Basic Citizenship

· Public Speaking

· Grassroots Organizing and Advocacy 101, led by long-time community organizer and WNCA member Monroe Gilmore; and

· Growth Management Basics, led by Stacy Guffey, former Macon County Planner and new WNCA land use expert.

“This spring meeting marks an important moment for WNCA and its members, remarks WNCA Steering Committee Chair, DJ Gerken. “We have led our membership through a very thoughtful process of re-assessing our mission, creating important guiding principles, and formulating new strategic objectives and key initiatives that will guide WNCA’s work for the next several years. There’s a real excitement now as we finalize this terrific plan that will help WNCA protect the environment and better serve citizen environmental advocates in our region.”

This strategic plan was one of the first goals of WNCA’s new Executive Director, Julie Mayfield, upon her arrival in June 2008 from Atlanta where she was Vice President and General Counsel at the Georgia Conservancy. Mayfield, whose maternal roots are in Sylva and Jackson County, wanted to build a plan that would reflect the issues and challenges of today as well as provide guidance on how the Alliance could become a healthier, more sustainable organization.

“During its 27-year history, WNCA has risen to a vast array of challenges that threatened Western North Carolina, from oil, gas, and mineral mining, to clear-cutting, to unhealthy levels of air pollution. The threats and opportunities of today are somewhat different. While we need to remain vigilant about the management of our public lands, many environmental concerns today arise from the use and development of private land. WNCA is prepared to address these concerns with thoughtful advocacy that is no less vigorous than our historic efforts to protect the natural resources and communities that make this region so appealing,” says Mayfield.

WNCA’s new strategic plan reflects these priorities by focusing on growth management and protecting the region’s water supply in addition to public lands protection. “We will remain flexible to respond to other issues as they arise, but this is where we plan to focus our efforts,” says Mayfield.

WNCA’s Spring Gathering will be open to the public and will take place at the Regional High Technology Center in Waynesville. The cost is $10.00 for WNCA members and $20.00 for non-members (registration includes a year membership). Registration begins at 9:15 AM, and workshops run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

To register or for more information, contact WNCA at 828-258-8737 or email WNCA Vista Volunteer Rachael Bliss at rachael@wnca.org.

Bicycle Rodeo ~ YMCA's Healthy Kids Day Event

Healthy Buncombe is putting on several kids bicycle skill training sessions this spring. These bicycle rodeos have been developed by the League of American Bicyclists through a grant from the National Bicycle Dealer's Association. A few local Asheville bicycle advocates have been trained and in turned trained volunteers to assist in putting on the spring series.

One of the Healthy Buncombe goals is make it safer for children to walk and bike to school and when it is safe we want these children to demonstrate appropriate riding behaviors so they will to safely get themselves to school, go to their friend's home or do their errands. These skills will also help them when they become safer drivers when they are older.

Sunday, April 26 in Biltmore Village as part of the All Soul's Church Earth Day celebration
from 1:00 - 4:00

Earth Day Celebration!!!

Earth Day Celebration

Sunday, April 26, 2009
12:00pm - 4:00pm

The Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village
9 Swan Street
Asheville, NC


Earth Day Café

All Souls EYC will be serving organic sandwich plates for $5 and drinks for $1. Bring your own reusable cup and earn a free drink!

Proceeds will go to this summer’s youth pilgrimage trip and "Greening up the scene" at the ABCCM women’s shelter.


Events

Beating of the Bounds Bicycle Ride and Blessing of the bikes 12:30
Asheville Face Painting – Michelle Bevans
Children’s “Green” Activities ~Biltmore Village Ice Cream
“Free” Bicycle Rodeo ages 6-16 by Healthy Buncombe/Blue Ridge Bicycle Club
(Bring your child’s bike or borrow one. Helmets required)
Men’s Garden Club Plant Sale ~ Buncombe County Master Gardeners Desk
Carleton Burke and Birds of Prey


Music

Ben Scales and the Tater Diggers
Frazier Worth and the Honey Bees
Imhotep drummer
Evergreen School Marimba Band

Chuck E Cheese Coupons for April!

Just click on image to make bigger.

A play date at Fun Depot.

Tomorrow, Wednesday April 22, 2009, KFA is going to be at Fun Depot from 11-1 in the soft play area. If you'd like to join me and a few friends it would be a nice place to chat and meet other moms.

Just email me or leave a comment if you are interested.

This might turn into a monthly event if the response is good. :)

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

Outdoor Adventure Gear Sale, Expo and More!

Yes, you can still register as a consignor or volunteer, or you can rent a booth for yourself, your club or your business as well or have a insert in our eco-bags that are going to the first 1000 people there!

Friday, April 24th 6pm - 9pm (volunteers and consignors only)
Saturday, April 25th 9am - 5pm (let the deals begin!)
Sunday, April 26th 9am - 4pm

Check out what's happening Saturday & Sunday!

Saturday 4/25

9:00 Gearheads opens. Let the deals begin!

11:00 Presentation by Riverlink.

12:00 Backpacking Basics by Frugal Backpacker. How to pack a Backpack.

1:00 Just because you're camping doesn't mean you shouldn't eat well. Favorite Outdoor Recipes by Frugal Backpacker.

2:00 Dr. Corey Duvall /Stay Active Clinic will discuss common pain associated with Hiking and Trail Running and answer your questions regarding issues you may have. "Knee pain and hip mobility: Functional screens and rehabilitative activities"

3:00 Tie it up tight and right. Learn the essential knots you need to know for the outdoors. By Frugal Backpacker.


Sunday 4/26

9:00 Gearheads opens.

9:00 Bring your vintage bikes for the Vintage Bike Show. Judging will take place all day with winner presentation at 2:00. Winner will receive a Gearheads Bucks, good for any consignment items.

10:00 Dirt Crit. It had to be done.. Dirt short track racing sponsored by Sycamore Cycles and Endless Bikes. 30 minute of fast dirt track racing that will test fitness and skill at the Ag Center dirt track. Fast and spectator-friendly bike racing at its best. Men's open, Women's open and Single Speed open Categories.

11:00 Road biking 101. Bring your bike and get ready to ride and learn the rules of the road. After a short presentation, there will be a road ride that will leave from the Ag Center and cover approx 19 miles of gently rolling and beautiful terrain. Sponsored by BioWheels.

12:00 If an accident happens in a remote area, would you know what to do? Skyland Search and Rescue will be on hand to inform you or what to do if you or someone you are with is injured in the woods. This may be one of the most important discussions of the weekend.

1:00 Dr. Corey Duvall / Stay Active Clinic will give a presentation for paddlers that you should not miss on how to prevent and manage injuries related to paddling. The lecture, "Avoiding rotator cuff damage and chronic dislocations", will address shoulder position, strength, and rotator cuff damage. Also learn exercises you can do to strengthen muscles crucial for kayaking and preventing injuries.

1:00 Pro Jump Demo. Watch local Pros rip it up at the Arena. Spectator friendly cycling at is best,

1:30 Bunny Hop Contest. Show your stuff and win some Gearhead Bucks. Open Class, bring your bike with the highest vertical leap, winner takes all.

2:00 Kids mountain bike race will take place at the Ag Center. Bring the little ones (12 and under) and let them play. A fun and short course with small bumps and rollers will test their skills yet provide a safe place to experience their first race. Great photo op for moms and dads

2:30 CompuTrainer Heats begin. Test your fitness by going head to head with three other riders in a 3 mile simulated time trial. Prizes for the top four and Gearhead bucks goes to the winner. Sponsored by Asheville VeloSports Performance Center.

Earth Day Asheville Celebration!

Earth Day Asheville Celebration @ The Orange Peel

Music and Dance Party for EVERYONE to Celebrate Our Clean and Green Future and Asheville GreenWorks with Bayou Diesel & Blue Heaven.

Wednesday, April 22nd
7:00 PM (6:30 PM doors)
$10.00
All Ages

Outdoor Adventure Gear Sale, Expo and More!

April 24-26, 2009 WNC Ag Center, Asheville NC.

Do you want to save money on the gear you want, make money on the gear you don't need,
learn something new and get involved with your community of Gearheads?

Find great deals on consignment items, new discounted closeouts from regional shops and learn
about what's new in 2009 from Manufacturers, Clubs, and Nonprofits in your area.

Win GearHeads Buck$ by competing in a variety of events throughout the weekend. Test your skills in Computrainer Sprints, Bunny Hop Contest, Children's Mountain Bike Race and more.

GearHeads will offer a variety of clinics to suit everyone from beginners to seasoned pros.
Get stoked just by watching the Pro Dirt Jump Demo, Vintage Bike Show and more.

Bikes, Boats, Climbing, Snow Sports, Camping & Hiking Gear Galore!

For complete details, visit www.gearheads-asheville.com

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!

Asheville Pizza Company on Merrimon.

Now showing:

Coraline
Rated PG

The Health Adventure ~ Super Science Saturday

Super Science Saturday: Save Snack Time!
Saturday, April 18
12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Join students from the chemistry department at Clemson University and investigate a crime scene. Help perform experiments to solve the mystery of the missing snacks!

Super Science Saturday is FREE for members or with museum admission.

Asheville's Fun Depot for April.

Local Libraries offer Free FUN!

Storytimes and Toddler Times

Mother Reading

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
West Asheville 11:00 am
Thursdays
Black Mountain 10:30 am
Enka - Candler 10:30 am
Pack Memorial 10:00 & 11:00 am
Swannanoa 10:00 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

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!

Bicycle Rodeo ~ YMCA's Healthy Kids Day Event

Healthy Buncombe is putting on several kids bicycle skill training sessions this spring. These bicycle rodeos have been developed by the League of American Bicyclists through a grant from the National Bicycle Dealer's Association. A few local Asheville bicycle advocates have been trained and in turned trained volunteers to assist in putting on the spring series.

One of the Healthy Buncombe goals is make it safer for children to walk and bike to school and when it is safe we want these children to demonstrate appropriate riding behaviors so they will to safely get themselves to school, go to their friend's home or do their errands. These skills will also help them when they become safer drivers when they are older.

Our first program will happen this Saturday, April 18 at UNC-A as part of the YMCA's Healthy Kids Day event. The Bicycle Rodeo will take place in the parking garage near the UNC-A gym. There will be signs directing folks.

Our other Bicycle Rodeos this spring that Healthy Buncombe will be putting on will be happening

Sunday, April 26 in Biltmore Village as part of the All Soul's Church Earth Day celebration
from 1:00 - 4:00
Saturday, May 2 in Black Mountain at the Elementary School from 10:00 - 2:00
Saturday, May 9 in West Asheville at Vance Elementary School from 11:00 - 3:00

Earth Day @ Martin Luther King Park with Asheville on Bikes

Earth Day @ Martin Luther King Park
Ride your City, Corral your Bike

Asheville on Bikes is hosting the first bicycle corral of spring on Saturday, April 18th at Martin Luther King Park located at 50 Martin Luther King Dr.

Saturday, April 18, 2009
Time: 10:00am - 10:00pm
Location: Martin Luther King Park
Street: 50 Martin Luther King Drive
City/Town: Asheville, NC

Email:
ashevilleonbikes@gmail.com

Gather your friends and family enjoy a pedal about town, then ride over to Martin Luther King Park and corral your bicycle before taking part in the festivities.

Store your bicycle with Asheville on Bikes and receive a pedallers appreciation prize, as well as, catch up on cycling’s current events. There is plenty of pedaller planning in the works, so stop by, stash your bicycle and catch up with Asheville on Bikes.

Chuck E Cheese Coupons for April!

Just click on image to make bigger.

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

RiverLink ~ Outdoor Education Days

Outdoor Education Days




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

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 at UNC Asheville 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).

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

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

My Mom's Having a Baby.

Monday, April 13, 4pm – 5pm

Mission Hospital
(enter the hospital at the visitor entrance off Biltmore Avenure. Take G elevators to the 4th floor)

Children ages 3 to 8 years old (children over the age of 8 may attend the adult tour with their parent/s)

Free TO REGISTER: Call (828) 254-6373, Ext. 316

Hands on Asheville-Buncombe, a United Way Program, offers many things for April.

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: 4/30 (Thursdays); 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Requirements: 2-4 needed; ages 16+ welcome; (13-15 with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.

Cookie Night
Help bake homemade cookies for families who are staying at the Lewis Rathbun Center. The Rathbun Center provides free lodging for families from out of town who have a loved one in an area hospital. Supplies will be provided. Just bring some compassion and an appetite (sampling is encouraged!).
Project Date & Time: 4/13 (Monday); 7:00-8:30 pm
Requirements: 2-4 needed; ages 18+ welcome (ages 10-17 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.
4/23 (Thursday); 6:00-8:00pm
4/30 (Thursday); 6:00-8:00pm
Requirements: 5-20 needed; ages 16+ welcome (5-15 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: 4/18 (Saturday); 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Requirements: 5-7 needed; age 18+ welcome; (14-17 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.
4/30 (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: 7-12 year olds
Kids are eager and excited to give to others, but it can sometimes be difficult to find age appropriate volunteer activities for children. This is a project where kids are the volunteers! This month the kids will partner with Asheville Greenworks to help remove and cover graffiti around Asheville. This project is geared towards 7-12 year olds. ***Adult volunteers not needed unless bringing youth participants.*** Parents or guardians are required to stay onsite with their children.
Project Date & Time: 4/25 (Saturday); 9:00-11:00am
Requirements: 4-10 needed; This project is geared towards 7-12 year olds
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: 4/19 (Sunday); 2:00-4:00pm
Requirements: 6-10 needed; ages 16+ welcome (12-15 with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.

In the Garden
Volunteers will be preparing the Emma Community Garden for fertilization, planting, and harvest! Volunteers should wear seasonal work clothes and sturdy shoes. Please bring enthusiasm, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
4/25 (Saturday); 10:00am-1:00pm
Requirements: 5-15 needed; ages 16+ welcome (12-15 with adult supervision)
Visit www.handsonasheville.org to sign up.

Wishing you a wonderful Easter.

Kid Friendly Asheville wants to wish you a wonderful Easter!!! Have fun egg hunts!! Don't eat too much candy!

Happy Easter!!!



Card from mypunchbowl.

Cooking and Crafting with Kids ~ Easter Cupcakes

**UPDATED!! Pictures added!!**

This mouth Cooking with Kids and Let's Get Crafty are combined into this one perfect post!

Every Easter I have wonderful memories of making Easter cupcakes with my mamaw. So, this year I am going to make them with my kids the Saturday before Easter. Instead of dying eggs that no one will eat we are going to make cupcakes that will be gone immediately after Easter lunch.

Here's what you will need.

Iced Cupcakes.
Coconut ~ add some green food coloring. This makes your grass.
Jelly Beans.
Pipe Cleaners.
Ribbon.

Cook up your cupcakes. You can do this a day in advance. That's what I usually do anyway.

I make homemade white icing. The yummy kind that has lard in it.
~Everything doesn't have to be healthy~

Ice your cupcakes. Even a cake if you prefer that.

Let the kids mix in a few drops of green food coloring to the coconut to make your grass.



Lil O wanted pink grass for some reason.



Sprinkle on your cupcakes.







Add a few jelly beans to be the eggs in your basket.









~Another way to jazz up your cupcakes~
Take pipe cleaner. Twist together. You will have to cut them to make them shorter. Bend pipe cleaner and insert in cupcakes. This will make your basket handle. You could use twizzlers if you wanted.

Tie a pretty bow with some ribbon on the top of your handle.

Just let your imagination go wild and you will have some beautiful TASTY cupcakes!

Free Family Fun ~ New Life Community Church

TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!



New Life Community Church

Free hot dog lunch!!! Inflatable Rides, Face Painting, Crafts, Clowns, Hay Rides, Climbing Wall, Magic Show and Puppets!!!

Call 254-0040 for more information or go to their site for directions.

Free Family Fun ~ New Life Community Church

New Life Community Church

Free hot dog lunch!!! Inflatable Rides, Face Painting, Crafts, Clowns, Hay Rides, Climbing Wall, Magic Show and Puppets!!!

Call 254-0040 for more information or go to their site for directions.

Asheville Pizza Company on Merrimon.

Now showing:

Hotel for Dogs (pg)

Asheville's Fun Depot for April.

The Health Adventure ~ Origami Folding Frenzy

Origami Folding Frenzy
Wednesday, April 8
4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Learn new folds, share favorites and make friends at this monthly session. All skill levels are welcome. Paper is available for purchase in The Explore Store, or you may bring your own.

Origami Folding Frenzy is FREE for members or with museum admission.

Chuck E Cheese Coupons for April!

Just click on image to make bigger.

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 Health Adventure ~ Home School Happenings

Home School Happenings
Wednesday, April 8
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

Ages 3 & 4: Noisemakers
Little ones will experiment with a variety of unusual instruments and make their own.

Ages 5, 6 & 7: Physics in a Baggie
Students will fill a take-home bag with exciting physics activities to experiment with sound, momentum, and lift.

Ages 8 & 9: Solar System
Students will have fun with astronomy.

Ages 10, 11 & 12: Moneyville & Bartering
Games will help students learn about bartering instead of using cash.

Home School Happenings is $5.50 per child for members, $6.00 per child for non-members. Advance payment secures your registration. To reserve your child's space, please call (828) 254-6373, Ext. 316.

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

Free Family Fun ~ New Life Community Church

New Life Community Church

Free hot dog lunch!!! Inflatable Rides, Face Painting, Crafts, Clowns, Hay Rides, Climbing Wall, Magic Show and Puppets!!!

Call 254-0040 for more information or go to their site for directions.

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!

The Health Adventure ~ Super Science Saturday

Super Science Saturday: Money Fun
Saturday, April 4
12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Turn a penny from copper to silver and then to gold! Learn a coin trick. Set a dollar on fire and then discover that it hasn't even burned. Use the power of air to make a penny jump and use heat to make it dance. You can have lots of fun with money without even spending it.

Super Science Saturday is FREE for members or with museum admission.

Local Libraries offer Free FUN!

Storytimes and Toddler Times

Mother Reading

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
West Asheville 11:00 am
Thursdays
Black Mountain 10:30 am
Enka - Candler 10:30 am
Pack Memorial 10:00 & 11:00 am
Swannanoa 10:00 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

Making the kids a personalized Easter basket doesn't have to break you financially.

Easter around here to pretty low key. I give each child a treat. We dye eggs. We celebrate as a family. My kids know what Easter is really about. It's not all chocolate bunnies and fake green grass.

Last week I hit the $1.00 Store for my bi-monthly shopping trip. I was able to buy for Baby M's first birthday party.
House hold stuff.
Lots of Garnier Fructis hair stuff for us girls.
They also had Breck de-tangler for Lil O. That stuff is a must for kids with long hair. OR short hair at that.
Brillow pads.
Dishwasher powder!! <~~~it works just as well as expensive brand. You cannot beat it for only a 1.00 a box. I bought several!! The Kool Aid powder you add to water bottles. The kids love them. I can get a box of 8 for 1.00 or spend 4.00 for 12 at Ingle's. You do the math and tell me how much you save. I stocked up on them buying like 12 boxes.
They also had name brand ziplock storage bags at a steal of a price. I need to remember that next time so I buy more boxes.

Oh, the best thing I was able to buy!!! You ready????



All my Easter basket goodies!! More like Easter pails. I bought them couple years back at Target in the 1.00 section. They are tin and pastel colors! I reuse them every year. :)

I have a TOTE full of Easter decorations in the basement. I will get it out over the weekend. I save special things over the years from the kids. My mamaw always gives me an Easter decoration as well. I'll take pictures when I get everything out for the kids!

Asheville's Fun Depot for April.

The North Carolina Arboretum ~ Free April Activities

April 2009 Calendar of Events

Exhibitions:

Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats dispels popular misconceptions about bats, describes their ecological importance and gives visitors an appreciation of the true wonders of the bat world. Special effects, multi-sensory interactive displays, and a Gothic castle present bats in mythic and real-life settings. Visitors will also be able to explore bat plants in the exhibit greenhouse and see a giant bat sculpture created by Welding Unlimited METAL CREATIONS.
Through May 11
Baker Exhibit Center
9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Saturday
Noon to 5:00 pm Sunday


“Blooming Out Loud” is hosted by botanical artist Miriam Sagasti, a Peruvian-American artist who came to the United States in 1978 and settled in Chapel Hill in 1994. Sagasti works in three different styles, which she says, “reflect my varied interests and experiences.” Among Sagasti’s three styles are botanical paintings, inspired by her love of nature and gardening. With watercolors and color pencils, she strives to depict nature as it truly appears.
Through May 7
Education Center 2nd Floor Gallery
9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Saturday
Noon to 5:00 pm Sunday


Daily
Connections Gallery Shop
Baker Exhibit Center
11:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday-Saturday
Noon to 4:00 pm Sunday

Garden Trellis Shop
Education Center
Closed Mondays
11:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesday-Saturday
Noon to 4:00 pm Sunday

Savory Thyme Café
Education Center
Closed Mondays
11:00 am to 3:00 pm Tuesday-Saturday
Noon to 3:00 pm Sunday


April 2009
Tuesdays and Saturdays

Forest Trails Walk. Guided tour on the Arboretum’s trails explores the natural environment. Topics can include plants, trees, flowers, birds, insects, and local history. Wear sturdy walking shoes, bring water, dress in layers and bring rain protection.
1:00 pm Baker Exhibit Center Lobby


Tuesdays through Fridays, Beginning April 14
Guided Garden Tours. Join this informative, guided tour of The NC Arboretum’s garden exhibits featuring spring highlights.
10:30 am Baker Exhibit Center Lobby


Tuesday, April 14
Gardening in the Mountains: Edible Landscaping. This informative program is offered in cooperation with Buncombe County Cooperative Extension and regional Master Gardeners.
10:00 am Education Center


Thursday, April 16
In-Depth Walk: What’s New in the Garden. An Arboretum horticulturist leads a walk focusing on new features in the gardens.
1:30 pm Baker Exhibit Center Lobby


Saturday April 18
National Native Azalea Repository Guided Walk: Join Glenn Palmer for a tour of the Arboretum’s Native Azalea collection. Wear sturdy footwear for walking on varied terrain.
10:00 am Baker Exhibit Center Lobby


Saturday and Sunday, April 18 & 19
Ikebana Exhibition, hosted by Ikebana International, Asheville Chapter, in celebration of the visit of internationally acclaimed Ikebana experts Akihiro and Naohiro Kasuya..
Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday noon to 5:00 pm


Wednesday, April 22
Collections Walk: Native Azaleas. This monthly walk focuses on various seasonal features of the Arboretum’s cultivated and wild plant collections. Wear sturdy footwear for walking on varied terrain.
1:00 pm Baker Exhibit Center Lobby


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

The Health Adventure ~ Preschool Play Date

Playdate is held at The Health Adventure's Creative Playspace from 10:30am to 11:30 am on the 1st Thursday of every month in an enclosed and safe discovery zone for children ages 3-5. Hands-on take-away activities led by an expert educator from The Health Adventure make these play dates enriching for children and adults alike.

For more information, please contact Julie Boyce-Hutzel at 828-254-6373 ext 321!!

The Health Adventure ~ Moneyville Exhibit

Money isn't just about dollars and cents. The ancient Aztecs used chocolate for money, and Yap islanders used 500-pound stones! So what is money and how does it work? Take a trip to Monevyille, on display now at The Health Adventure, and find out!

Take a tour of money's many forms and functions, and discover how it has changed throughout history. See samples of currency from pounds to pesos, put your face on a million dollar bill, run your own lemonade stand, and even play the stock market. This fun and very timely exhibit will have you and your family seeing money in a whole new way!

Moneyville will be on display through May 3, 2009.

The NC Arboretum 2009 Youth Camp Schedule

The NC Arboretum 2009 Youth Camp Schedule


Spring Break Camps


Spring Adventure Camp Discovery and adventure abound in this week of fun and learning at the Arboretum. Experience a wild range of activities - from crafts and games to hikes and live animal demonstrations. Day trips will include outings to the Botanical Gardens, The Cradle of Forestry and the River Arts District.
April 13 – 17, 2009
Grades 2 & 3 April 13 – 17, 2009
Grades 4 & 5 Camp Fee: $195.00/members, $215.00/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Summer Camps


Gone Buggy Pre -K
Come see through the eyes of an insect as we learn how they live, what they eat and how special they are. Go on hikes to collect the smallest and largest bugs you can find. Fun stories will help children explore how bugs get along with the rest of the world. Siblings under age 2 may accompany for free.
June 1 – 5, 2009
Ages 2 - 4 Camp Fee: $45.00/members, $55.00/general public
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.


Animal Adventures Pre – K
Make crafts, sing songs and hear stories on adventures through the woods. Explore and learn about all the amazing critters in the world around us. Siblings under age 2 may accompany for free.
June 15 – 19, 2009
Ages 2 - 4 Camp Fee: $45.00/members, $55.00/general public
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.


Soggy Sneakers Pre -K
Explore the wonders of streams and ponds and visit a different water world on the beautiful property of the Arboretum. Use fish nets, magnifying glasses and bring a camera to capture unforgettable memories. Songs, stories, crafts and games will be part of the adventure. Siblings under age 2 may accompany for free.
July 20 – 24, 2009
Ages 2 - 4 Camp Fee: $45.00/members, $55.00/general public
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.


Rising Grades K - 1


Nature Rangers
Come with us as we learn how to protect and cherish some of the most amazing things on earth – nature! As a little Nature Ranger participants will play games, go on hikes, make crafts from recycled items and even meet a real grown up Park Ranger.
June 8 – 12, 2009
Rising Grades K & 1 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Teeth, Tails and Talons
Search for local critters to see how they eat, sleep, and play. Enjoy games, hikes, crafts and stories all about teeth, tails, and talons. Visit with our very own creatures and experience the different lives they live compared to critters in the wild. Learn about native birds and construct a birdhouse or feeder to hang in your yard!
June 22 – 26, 2009
Rising Grades K & 1 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


A Natural Artist
Get in touch with the budding artist within to create paper, use natural dyes, draw, paint, glue, pattern a t-shirt, work with clay and make crafts with materials found in the woods. Take a short hike on a trail to find a mountain or stream and the plants and animals in the beautiful forest. Make and take an original masterpiece every day!
July 6 – 10, 2009
Rising Grades K & 1 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Wet and Wild
Get ready to discover all there is to know about life in and around the many micro worlds of water. The Arboretum’s huge and beautiful forest has many spots to investigate for aquatic life. Take a special trip to Lake Powhatan to swim and splash, examine a bubbling creek and discover some wet and wild critters.
July 13 – 17, 2009
Rising Grades K & 1 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Eco Detectives
Games and hikes will help participants understand how important animals are to the forest ecosystem. Learn how to spot the many critters that live here and how to identify what they are. Catch salamanders, insects and minnows as we explore the Bent Creek watershed. We’ll look for tracks and other wildlife signs as we explore the homes of lizards, birds and mammals that inhabit our enormous forest.
July 27 – 31, 2009
Rising Grades K & 1 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Little Mountaineers
Explore the green woods as you learn how to stay safe, watch the weather and build shelters. Discover some of the best old recipes, hear great stories and learn about knots. Uncover the secrets of the “Leave No Trace” guidelines that encourage excellent and useful ways to be a superior Little Mountaineer.
August 3 – 7, 2009
Rising Grades K & 1 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Summer Camp Classic 1
Join us as we explore all the amazing classic camp adventures waiting for you at the Arboretum. Bring your friends and meet new ones as we hike in search of critters, splash in creeks and play games outside. You’ll even bring home a special souvenir to remember all the fun.
August 17 – 21, 2009
Rising Grades K & 1 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Rising Grades 2 - 3


Junior Mountaineers
This camp offers all sorts of outdoor skills, games and activities like making shelters out of found materials and learning how to use a map while on a hike. Use teamwork to create camp gadgets and play great games. Gain essential survival skills while learning the basics of using a compass, setting up a tent and making a campfire.
June 15 – 19, 2009
Rising Grades 2 & 3 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Mountain Ways
Games, music and local history are a fascinating and playful part of a guided discovery in this culturally diverse area. Learn to identify wildflowers as well as medicinal and edible plants used by settlers. Practice textile and candle making, and other techniques used by settlers and natives to live off the land. Make toys, get to know animals important to pioneer life, folklore and re-enact 19th century and native village activities!
June 29 – July 3, 2009
Rising Grades 2 & 3 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Nature’s Studio: Earth Art
Beautiful mountain views and crystal streams will provide amazing inspiration as you paint, sketch, weave, dye, and mold your own creations. Explore the picture perfect details of the world around you while in search of insects, salamanders, birds and more. Get in touch with your inner artist as you create art with materials you find in nature. Make an original masterpiece every day!
July 6 – 10, 2009
Rising Grades 2 & 3 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Advanced Eco Detectives Learn all about the animals that live in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, how to spot them and where they live. Catch salamanders, insects and fish as you explore Bent Creek. Scout for tracks and other wildlife signs as you explore the homes of lizards, birds and the mammals. Special wildlife mysteries will put you to the test as you examine evidence left behind by creatures of the forest.
July 20 – 24, 2009
Rising Grades 2 & 3 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Aquatic Adventures Discover the diversity of aquatic life in our natural environment. Use microscopes to observe tiny single-celled critters and then fish for splashing trout at Lake Powhatan. Explore aquatic wonders on creek walks, pond investigations and a special salamander safari. Learn to use minnow traps and nets to capture and observe a variety of life; and most importantly, learn how to protect our amazing aquatic habitats.
July 27 – 31, 2009
Rising Grades 2 & 3 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Science Connections
Make and create natural products while learning some basic chemistry and put together some “museum-quality” collections. Explore the natural environmental balance in the amazing web of life. Test ecological hypotheses, conduct fun experiments and play science-inspired games. Uncover the mysteries of our plants and trees, woodland animals, aquatic critters, geologic formations and impacts on our air and water.
August 10 – 14, 2009
Rising Grades 2 & 3 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Summer Camp Classic 2 Join us as we explore all the amazing classic camp adventures that are waiting for you at the Arboretum. Bring your friends and meet new ones as we hike in search of critters, splash in creeks and play games outside. You’ll even bring home a special souvenir to remember all the fun. August 17 – 21, 2009
Rising Grades 2 & 3 Camp Fee: $170/members, $190/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Rising Grades 4 - 5


Boots, Paddles and Reels
Explore parts of our forested campus that few know about. Use a GPS unit to guide you to Lake Powhatan and fish for trout with fishing flies you tie yourself. A quiet-water paddling trip with Southern Waterways along the French Broad River is sure to be a highlight! Safety and care for your sporting equipment along with hands-on instruction and demonstrations ensure a great experience.
June 15 – 19, 2009
Rising Grades 4 & 5
July 13 – 17, 2009
Rising Grades 4 & 5
Price: $215/members, $235/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Wilderness Explorers
Learn to read maps and use a compass to accomplish a cross-country orienteering course and design a course for your friends to try. Purify water, cook outdoors, make a shelter, provide first aid in the back country and learn how to limit your impact on the environment while outdoors. At the end of the week your skills will be put to the test in an overnight camping trip in the beautiful forest of the Arboretum.
June 22 – 26, 2009
Rising Grades 4 & 5 Camp Fee: $200/members, $220/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Woodland Ways
An adventure in history takes place as we explore the games, tools, crafts and skills used by Native Americans in our area. Mold pottery, use plants for creating dyes, weave a basket and learn how people lived off the land. Visiting historians and scientist will bring the past alive while we explore Cherokee culture. Learn about Cherokee folklore, trade, farming methods and cook traditional recipes. Get down and dirty as we explore and unearth an “archaeological site” learning what others did to survive over the last thousand years in the Bent Creek area.
June 29 – July 3, 2009
Rising Grades 4 & 5 Camp Fee: $180/members, $200/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Nature Adventure Camp
Become a junior field ecologist as you explore woodland and stream habitats, hunt for local wildlife and take part in small animal and minnow trapping. Take a night hike as we search for nocturnal animals, observe the night sky and go camping Thursday evening in a pine forest. Discover the amazing habits and behaviors of the many birds, reptiles, mammals and fish we encounter.
July 20 – 24, 2009
Rising Grades 4 & 5 Camp Fee: $200/members, $220/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Outdoor Explorations
Discover the natural wonders of Western North Carolina as part of this enriching program. Explore the Davidson River on a hunt for hellbender salamanders and visit the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education to learn about the needs of trout and other coldwater fish. Spend a day off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Craggy Gardens exploring the unique plants and animals that live in high elevations. Take in a day at Great Smoky Mountains National Park helping biologists study wildlife populations. All these great explorations, plus an overnight camping trip at the Arboretum on Thursday evening, add up to an amazing week of discovery and adventure!
Aug 3 – 7, 2009
Rising Grades 4 & 5 Camp Fee: $255/members, $275/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Rising Grades 6 - 8


Eco Challenge - Counselor in Training Camp
Our mountains are home to an incredible variety of plants and animals. Spend a week exploring these wild wonders, combining experiences at the Arboretum with day trip destinations in our area. Explore the unique habitats of the Southern Appalachians at Graveyard Fields, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Davidson River. Campers will build strong leadership skills and teach younger campers what they have learned about the natural world – a one-of-a-kind experience that combines ecological study, leadership and adventure.
June 8 – 12, 2009
Rising Grades 6 – 8 Camp Fee: $255/members, $275/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Mountain Trek
Learn the basics of land navigation and become skilled in using a GPS, map and compass to navigate trails at the Arboretum and at off-site destinations. Hike among rhododendrons and blueberry bushes at Craggy Gardens, stroll atop a mountain bald at Black Balsam and navigate along the trail to Moore Cove Falls in Pisgah National Forest for a high-adventure experience. Skills learned throughout the week will be put to the test on Thursday evening on an overnight camping trip at the Arboretum, and a cross-country orienteering course on Friday.
August 10 – 14, 2009
Rising Grades 6 - 8 Camp Fee: $275/members, $295/general public
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Registration is taken on a first-come, first-served basis and can be made by mail or drop-off only. Before care and after care is available for an additional fee. Arboretum members receive a discount on camp registration fees. Visit www.ncarboretum.org for a complete list of camp offerings, registration applications and membership information, or call 828-665-2492.

The Health Adventure ~ Free Wednesday

Free Wednesday
Wednesday, April 1
3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

On the first Wednesday of each month, The Health Adventure is open and FREE to the public from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m.

Chuck E Cheese Coupons for April!

Just click on image to make bigger.