Santa at the Flagstaff Mall

Santa is going to be at the Flagstaff Mall (outside JC Penney) through Christmas Eve - fun thing to do while on the winter break from school!
Hours Monday - Saturday 10a-9p, Sunday 9a-8p, and Christmas Eve 9a-6p. He's on break, feeding the reindeer I'm sure, from 1-1:45 & 4:30-5:15, except on Christmas Eve, when he's only on break from 1-1:45p.

Elks National Hoop Shoot Free-Throw Program in Flagstaff

Here's a fun event for your young basketball players... 

The Elks National Hoop Shoot Free-Throw Program will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2011 at Mount Elden Middle School (3223 N 4^th Street, Flagstaff, AZ).  This program is for boys and girls, ages 8 through 13 (as of April 1, 2012).  Winners of this program will travel to compete in the next round and could eventually compete in the state, regional and national levels!  The top six national finalists’ names are inscribed in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Cool potential opportunity!

Registration will begin at 8:30 am on Saturday and go until 9:30 am.  No pre-registration required!  Participants will then be broken into their gender and age categories and the fun will begin.  

For more information, contact Ricky Conway at (928) 814 2379 and go to the official website: http://www.elks.org/hoopshoot.

Free Flagstaff Fun: 13th Annual Parade of Lights

Put on the coats, hats, scarves and mittens and head out to Flagstaff's 13th Annual "Northern Lights Parade" on Saturday, December 10th. The parade includes bands and floats all covered in twinkling lights. The fun begins at 6pm. The parade goes through the traditional downtown route. For more info contact the Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce at 928-774-4505.

Free Family Fun: Flagstaff's Little America holiday lights display

This Saturday, start your winter holidays with free family fun at the Little American Flagstaff.
Every year they put up more than one million outdoor lights for a holiday light display like none other in town.
This year they're having an old-fashioned holiday celebration with strolling carolers, performances by local choirs and free cookies and cider. Plus - Santa will be there, as always, to flip the lights switch.
This free event starts at 3pm Saturday, November 26, 2011. The lights will be on every night through the holiday season for everyone to stroll through at their leisure.

Free Flagstaff Fun: Santa comes to the Little America

Santa is coming to town... at the Little America Hotel in Flagstaff.
The two Sundays before Christmas (December 11th and 18th) Santa will be at the Little America from 8-10am where children can come visit with him and make their Christmas requests - for free. Perfect photo opp of the holidays! Take a free tour of the lights on the hotel grounds too while you're there.

Free family fun: Flagstaff's Winter Wonderland Celebration

Here's a free fun activity my family enjoys every year... Flagstaff Recreation Service's Winter Wonderland Celebration.

This free event is fun for the whole family. It takes place on Friday, Dec 2nd from 6:30-8:00pm at Heritage Square.

In conjunction with the First Friday Art Walk, the tree will be lit at 6:30pm then crafts and visits with Santa. NAU lights their tree at 6:00pm. 

For more info, call Flag Rec Services at (928) 213-2300.

Halloween dance performance for the whole family

Canyon Movement Company is putting on their second annual Halloween dance performance this weekend.
Last year's shows sold out!  I'm told the family matinee will be "less scary" for the kiddos, so that would be a great show to attend!  Plus, it's another excuse to wear those great costumes!
Everyone in costume gets $1 off!
Tickets are $7 or #5 for students for the family matinee, which is this Saturday, October 29th at 3:30pm at Coconino High School's Mini Auditorium in Flagstaff.

Free family fun: Flagstaff's free Halloween Harvest

Get ready for what my family considers Flagstaff's funnest annual event: the Halloween Harvest!
On Halloween (Monday, October 31, 2011), dress your family up and head downtown to Heritage Square(6 E. Aspen). The party runs from 4-7pm with carnival games, arts and crafts, a pumpkin patch, spooky music (but never scary), library activities and a costume contest. There's also a free Trick or Treat trail around Flagstaff's downtown businesses that is not to miss!
For older kids, there's free haunted downtown tours that leave every half hour.
This event was voted most outstanding community event in 2009 by AZ Parks and Rec Association - for good reason! It's a one more way to enjoy this great community we live in!

Grand Canyon Railways' Polar Express now taking reservations

Grand Canyon Railway has changed the times for its popular Polar Express runs and is accepting reservations.
This year’s nightly Polar Express runs will depart at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Saturday matinees will depart at 3:30 p.m. on select dates. In previous years the nightly runs departed at 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Grand Canyon Railway will offer runs this year Nov. 11, 2011 through Jan. 7, 2012. Saturday matinees will run Nov. 26 and Dec. 3, 10 and 17, 2011.

Reservations can be made online at www.thetrain.com or by calling 1-888-848-3511.
Closely following The Polar Express book by Chris Van Allsburg, this nighttime trip from the Grand Canyon Railway depot in Williams travels through the starlit wilderness to the “North Pole” and features a special reading of The Polar Express while passengers enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. The “North Pole,” a Christmas light village, was recently renovated with enhanced lighting and the addition of features such as storefronts, mailboxes and other structures to give the village a more permanent and three-dimensional look and feel. Upon arrival at the North Pole, passengers are welcomed by Santa Claus and Elf Bernard before Santa boards the Polar Express for the return trip to Williams. Santa makes his way through the passenger cars, greeting every child and presenting each one with a special gift – a jingle bell signifying their belief in Santa Claus. The round-trip journey is a little more than an hour in length.

Most evenings the Grand Canyon Railway offers two trains. The Grand Canyon Railway will also offer a Charity Train at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 11 with free tickets for non-profit organizations. To download an application to be part of this year’s Charity Train visit www.thetrain.com/polar-express-5679.html. The “Christmas Eve Limited,” departing at 8 p.m., includes special gifts from Santa that are not included during other excursions.
Individual tickets for the train rides other than the Christmas Eve Limited are $30 for adults and $20 for children ages two to 15. Rates for the special Christmas Eve Limited are $60 for adults and $40 for children ages two to 15. Matinee rates are $25 for adults and $15 for children ages two to 15.
The Grand Canyon Railway also offers a Polar Express Package including the roundtrip train excursion, a one-night stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and breakfast and dinner at the Grand Depot Café. The package price for two adults and two children starts at $341 and does not include taxes.
Polar Express reservations can be made by calling 1-888-848-3511 or by visiting www.thetrain.com/polar-express-5679.html. For more information about the Grand Canyon Railway or to purchase other tickets or packages visit www.thetrain.com or call 1-800-The-Train (1-800-843-8724).
Read my experience on The Polar Express HERE. 




Santa photo above courtesy Grand Canyon Railway

Flagstaff Children’s Music and Arts Festival

The Flagstaff Children’s Music and Arts Festival is coming back for its fourth year.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, August, 20^th from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Wheeler Park (212 W. Aspen Ave.).  The Children's Music and Arts Fest was voted 2009’s Most Outstanding Cultural Event from Arizona Parks and Recreation Association. The family-friendly event celebrates the artistic potential of all youth in our community. 

In addition to dance and music performances, children can make recycled arts projects, participate in the instrument petting zoo, make their own musical instrument, and learn to paint, draw and create sculptures.  There will be a Kiddie Caboose, two bounce houses, a climbing wall, carnival games, Face Painting, Balloon Animals, Library Bookmobile and Rock Band, food vendors and other fun things to do. 

Most activities are free!  A $3.00 wristband can be purchased for unlimited rides on the Kiddie Caboose, bounce house and climbing wall.

For more information call 213-2300 or visit flagstaff.az.gov/recreation.  

Contest opens for kids to imagine a car-free Flagstaff

"Imagine Flagstaff without cars" is the theme of the youth art and essay contest in celebration of World CarFree Day Sept. 22. The contest, in support of the second annual CarFreeFlag Day is open to all Coconino County residents ages 9-18.
For more contest info, visit carfreeflag.com/contest.

Gymnastics camp set for July 25-29 in Flagstaff

Flagstaff's Summit Gymnastics is having another camp for kids 5 and up.
SGA's competitive teams' coaching staff will run the camp the week of July 25th - 29th from 9:00-1:00. This is a gymnastics intensive camp designed to increase strength and flexibility and learn new skills. This opportunity is available to boys and girls all levels ages 5 and up.
Cost is $90 with an $8.50 registration/t-shirt fee for the week and an additional $40 to stay  for the rest of the day camp. Call them at 928-526-0644 for more info or to register.

New play for children this month on NAU campus in Flagstaff

A theatrical adaptation of a popular children's storybook about a javelina who persues her dream of becoming a ballerina will take the stage this month as part of NAU’s Peaks Theater Fest/Town and Gown Theater.

Josefina Javelina: A Hairy Tale, The Play, will be held at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. June 16-18 and 24-25 in the Studio Theater.

The performance is based on the storybook Josefina Javelina, written by Susan Lowell. Lowell will make an appearance during the week of the performance.

The play follows Josefina, who leaves home in search of her dream and who encounters several colorful characters along the way.

"Susan Lowell's books are special," said Kathleen McGeever, chair of the Department of Theater and the show's producer. "They are uniquely Southwestern in flavor, yet associated with the tales that we know and love."

A suggested donation of $10 per family and $5 per individual will be taken at the door. For information, call (928) 523-3781 or email Theatre@nau.edu.

Free fun: Outdoor Festival today at Mormon Lake

Here's some free family fun for the whole family to enjoy together today... Mormon Lake Lodge's  Outdoor Festival.
The festival will feature fishing, archery, air rifle shooting and more hands on fun with information booths, exhibitors, and speakers on outdoor subjects. Sponsered by the Arizona Game and Fish Department with live wildlife on display from the Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center.
There's also, as always, the free petting zoo for kids to enjoy too!
 The event is today (Saturday, June 4, 2011) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The lodge is located on Main Street at Mormon Lake, about 30 miles from Flagstaff, basically straight down Lake Mary Road.

Fun factoids on the history of swing sets

It's June, the perfect weather for backyard fun! So in honor of all the good times to come this summer, a look at the timeline of swingset evolution:

Free Flagstaff Fun: Concerts in the Park Roadshow in June and July

Concerts in the Park Roadshow is coming soon to a park near you!
The City of Flagstaff – Recreation Services is taking you on a tour of the City of Flagstaff park system, while combining great music, arts and crafts for the kids, and food vendors. 
The free concert series is on Wednesdays in June and July from 5:30-7:30pm.
This year’s performers include:
·       June 8th at Wheeler Park (212 W Aspen Ave): Chuck Cheesman and Bookman’s (folk)
·       June 15th at Foxglenn Park (4200 E Butler): Summit Dub Squad (reggae)
·       June 22nd at Wheeler Park (212 W. Aspen Ave): Dave Logan Band (folk)
·       June 29th at Bushmaster Park (3150 N Alta Vista): Knockabouts (Celtic)
·       July 6th at Foxglenn Park (4200 E Butler): Denise Allen Band (blues)
·       July 13th at Wheeler Park (212 W. Aspen Ave): Northern AZ Celtic Heritage Society Day with the Knockabouts, Bagpipers and Celtic Choral Groups
·       July 20th at Bushmaster Park (3150 N Alta Vista): Chris Laterzo (rock)
·       July 27th at Foxglenn Park (4200 E Butler): Isrobel (rock)

For more information contact City of Flagstaff Recreation Services at (928) 213-2300 or visit our website at www.flagstaff.az.gov/recreation.

Win a family vacation from Arizona

Arizona is giving away a free family vacation. Enter HERE for a chance to win the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Family Playcation Package:

• Three-night stay in a Casita Suite for two adults and two kids
• Two kids’ dining passes
• Admission to Bobcat Billy’s Clubhouse
• Court time at John Austin Center for Tennis

May events at the Children's Museum of Phoenix

May is Manners Month at the Children's Museum of Phoenix!

 Here's a look at their program of events for the month:

STORYTIME
Presented daily in the Book Loft
11:30am and 1:30pm

Wednesday, May 11
MUSIC TOGETHER PRESENTS: SPRING MARACAS
9:10-9:55, 10:10-10:55 & 11:10-11:55

Bounce with us into spring with the fun Maracas semester!  We will be shaking our eggs to the lively Dorian jazz "Doodle" tune, spinning scarves to the Greek "Taskonikas" and everyone's favorite waltz, "Dancing with Teddy".  Join us for 10 weeks of musical fun with your child as they grow in the journey towards basic music competence.  For more information and online registration, please go to www.MusicTogetherInPhx.com.

Thursday, May 12
GOOF & GIGGLE
10:00 - 11:00

Goof and Giggle is a fun and interactive class designed for toddlers between the ages of one to three years and their parents/caregivers. During this 4-week class (5/12, 5/19, 5/26 & 6/2), toddlers will dance, sing and play instruments to old songs with new words.  Explore the world of science as well as move and groove with balls, hoops and more.  Don't miss this opportunity to Goof and Giggle with your little one.  This program is taught by Sharen Pearson, the host of Baby D.I.Y on BabyFirstTV and creator of Goof & Giggle.  Admission into this 4-week program is $45.00 per child and includes Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here for tickets.



Friday, May 13
BRAIN TIME FOR BABIES
10:00 - 10:30 
New Directions Institute is offering a FREE interactive experience called Brain Time at the Museum. This program emphasizes simple but critical messages about early brain development. Included are stories, songs, rhymes, and one-on-one parent/child playtime with brain-based learning toys and books. The program is designed to teach parents about the importance of a child's early experiences to the wiring of his or her brain in a fun, informal learning setting where play is emphasized. Children birth to 18 months old plus a parent/caregiver are welcome.  Admission into the program is free with paid Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here to print your tickets.



Friday, May 13 
BRAIN TIME FOR TODDLERS
11:15 - 11:45

New Directions Institute is offering a FREE interactive experience called Brain Time at the Museum. This program emphasizes simple but critical messages about early brain development. Included are stories, songs, rhymes, and one-on-one parent/child playtime with brain-based learning toys and books. The program is designed to teach parents about the importance of a child's early experiences to the wiring of his or her brain in a fun, informal learning setting where play is emphasized. Children 18 months to 3 years old plus a parent/caregiver are welcome.  Admission into the program is free with paid Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here to print your tickets.



Saturday, May 14
THANK YOU CARDS
9:00-11:00

Come design your very own card as we discover the value and purpose of thank you notes.



Sunday, May  15
THANKFUL TREE
9:00 - 11:00

Join us as we make a beautiful tree out of handprint leaves to reflect on all the things we are thankful for.



Monday, May  16
THE MUSEUM IS CLOSED.



Tuesday, May  17
THANKFUL TREE
9:00 - 11:00

Join us as we make a beautiful tree out of handprint leaves to reflect on all the things we are thankful for.




Wednesday, May 18
MUSIC TOGETHER PRESENTS: SPRING MARACAS
9:10-9:55, 10:10-10:55 & 11:10-11:55

Bounce with us into spring with the fun Maracas semester!  We will be shaking our eggs to the lively Dorian jazz "Doodle" tune, spinning scarves to the Greek "Taskonikas" and everyone's favorite waltz, "Dancing with Teddy".  Join us for 10 weeks of musical fun with your child as they grow in the journey towards basic music competence.  For more information and online registration, please go to www.MusicTogetherInPhx.com



Thursday, May 19
GOOF & GIGGLE
10:00 - 11:00

Goof and Giggle is a fun and interactive class designed for toddlers between the ages of one to three years and their parents/caregivers.  During this 4-week class (5/12, 5/19, 5/26 & 6/2), toddlers will dance, sing and play instruments to old songs with new words.  Explore the world of science as well as move and groove with balls, hoops and more.  Don't miss this opportunity to Goof and Giggle with your little one.  This program is taught by Sharen Pearson, the host of Baby D.I.Y on BabyFirstTV and creator of Goof & Giggle.  Admission into this 4-week program is $45.00 per child and includes Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here for tickets.



Friday, May 20
THANKFUL TREE
9:00 - 11:00

Join us as we make a beautiful tree out of handprint leaves to reflect on all the things we are thankful for.



Saturday, May 21
TODDLER & PARENT YOGA
10:00 - 10:50

Introduce your young child to the countless benefits of yoga in this specially designed class that uses games, music, stories and play to explore postures, balance and breath. Quality time with a parent is an added bonus! Class is designed for children ages 18 months through three years and is taught by Anna Blocher-Rubin.  Admission into the program is free with paid Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here to print your tickets.



Saturday, May 21
KIDS YOGA
11:00 - 11:50

Kids gain improved focus, balance, breath, strength & confidence through yoga, as they practice with music, stories, obstacle courses, partner poses and creative play.  Parents are welcome to participate.  Class is designed for children ages four through ten and is taught by Anna Blocher-Rubin.  Admission into the program is free with paid Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here to print your tickets.



Sunday, May 22
THANKFUL TREE
2:00 - 4:00

Join us as we make a beautiful tree out of handprint leaves to reflect on all the things we are thankful for.



Monday, May  23
THE MUSEUM IS CLOSED.



Tuesday, May  24
THANK YOU CARDS
2:00 - 4:00

Come design your very own card as we discover the value and purpose of thank you notes.



Wednesday, May 25
MUSIC TOGETHER PRESENTS: SPRING MARACAS
9:10-9:55, 10:10-10:55 & 11:10-11:55

Bounce with us into spring with the fun Maracas semester!  We will be shaking our eggs to the lively Dorian jazz "Doodle" tune, spinning scarves to the Greek "Taskonikas" and everyone's favorite waltz, "Dancing with Teddy".  Join us for 10 weeks of musical fun with your child as they grow in the journey towards basic music competence.  For more information and online registration, please go to www.MusicTogetherInPhx.com



Thursday, May 26
GOOF & GIGGLE
10:00 - 11:00

Goof and Giggle is a fun and interactive class designed for toddlers between the ages of one to three years and their parents/caregivers.  During this 4-week class (5/12, 5/19, 5/26 & 6/2), toddlers will dance, sing and play instruments to old songs with new words.  Explore the world of science as well as move and groove with balls, hoops and more.  Don't miss this opportunity to Goof and Giggle with your little one.  This program is taught by Sharen Pearson, the host of Baby D.I.Y on BabyFirstTV and creator of Goof & Giggle.  Admission into this 4-week program is $45.00 per child and includes Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here for tickets.



Friday, May 27
DRAWING "FUN"DAMENTALS
9:00-11:00

In this program, young art apprentices are introduced to basic art concepts including use of line, shape, and composition, while learning a range of technical methods used be the masters themselves. Children will learn to use various drawing materials in a nurturing atmosphere, which stresses experimentation and exploration.   



Saturday, May 28
GENTLE IMAGE CONSULTING PRESENTS: FAMILY RESPECT
9:30 - 11:30

Children between the ages of 6-10 will join certified etiquette consultant, Rita Taylor of Gentle Image Consulting, to discover the importance of respecting one's family. This program will teach children the importance of personal values, respecting others, kitchen and bathroom etiquette, sharing personal space and acts of kindness. Admission into the program is free with paid Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here for tickets.



Sunday, May 29
MATH BEFORE YOU CAN ADD...OR EVEN COUNT!
2:00 - 2:45

Think your child is too young for math? Think again! From the moment we're born, we begin laying the foundations for the mathematical skills we'll use later in school and in life. Parents and grandparents can foster this natural learning process with a few simple, creative, and fun activities. Come experience the joy of math with your child through hands-on projects, and learn more tools that you can implement at home. This program is deigned for children between the ages of birth - 2.  Admission into the program is free with paid Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here to print your tickets.



Sunday, May 29
MATH BEFORE YOU CAN ADD...OR EVEN COUNT!
3:00 - 3:45

Think your child is too young for math? Think again! From the moment we're born, we begin laying the foundations for the mathematical skills we'll use later in school and in life. Parents and grandparents can foster this natural learning process with a few simple, creative, and fun activities. Come experience the joy of math with your child through hands-on projects, and learn more tools that you can implement at home. This program is deigned for children between the ages of 3 - 5.  Admission into the program is free with paid Museum admission.  Space is limited.  Please click here to print your tickets.



Monday, May 30
THANK YOU CARDS
2:00 - 4:00

Come design your very own card as we discover the value and purpose of thank you notes.



Tuesday, May  31
THANK YOU CARDS
9:00 - 11:00

Come design your very own card as we discover the value and purpose of thank you notes.

Arizona Snowbowl

The Arizona Snowbowl just north of Flagstaff features family fun in the winter and summer.
In the winter, the Snowbowl is home to Arizona's favorite skiing and snowboarding runs. There's lessons to take if you want and equipment to rent if you need it.
From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, weather permitting the Snowbowl opens its skyride to the highest point in the state. After Labor Day, the skyride operates Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through mid-October. Look for discount tickets on their website!  If you have a squirmy little one, you may want to skip the skyride, though there's no official age restrictions.
There is a restroom up at the top as well as picnic tables with awesome views.
During the summer months, hiking trails are also open along with the Snowbowl’s premiere disc golf course.
Do stop at the bottom of the road up to the Snowbowl at the Ski Lift Lodge for some of the BEST chicken wings in town. Eat on their fantastic deck and relax!

Riordan Mansion

Older children and adults will enjoy looking back into Flagstaff and the Old West's past at Riordan Mansion State Park. The guided tour is a must-do, so be sure to make reservations. They have self-guided brochures you can follow around part of the park if you’re short of time.
Tour guides share the history of the Riordans and the town in which they helped build. Along the way, you’ll see well-kept furnishings and everyday items from the turn of the twentieth century as well as a beautiful example of Arts and Crafts architecture work by Charles Whittlesey, who also designed the famous El Tovar hotel at the Grand Canyon. Note: little kids will be bored on this tour for the most part and it takes about an hour and a half to complete, so you may want to skip it until the kids are older.

Oak Creek Canyon

View from the relaxing deck at Junipine in Oak Creek Canyon

Take a scenic drive down 89A from Flagstaff through Oak Creek Canyon to see how quickly the landscape can change from cool pines to warm red rocks. Heading south out of town on 89A you can first stop at a scenic overlook of the canyon (about 10 minutes from town). There are also often Native American crafts and jewelry for sale here and a great spot for taking in the views.
Once down in the canyon, you’ll find some campgrounds, hiking trails, Slide Rock Stake Park, even some hotels and restaurants. If you want to get out and hike around, you’ll need a Red Rock pass to park on the side of the road. At the south end of the canyon just before you get to Sedona, you can find lots of great coupons in the market area next to Dairy Queen. These coupons can get you 10% off many of Sedona’s restaurants including the tasty Sonoran food of Javelina Cantina and others.

Moms get in free to Flagstaff Arboretum on Mother's Day

Moms, head to The Arboretum Sunday, May 8 (aka Mother's Day) for family-friendly fun.

Moms get in free that day (10a-4p). Regular admission for accompanying family members ($7 adults, $6 seniors, $3 for youth).
The whole family can enjoy a chocolate tasting, create a crafty gift for mom, tour the garden and more. This year families can also have a commemorative photo taken at the photography area.

Backyard Fun: Putting your backyard swingset together

Continuing the Backyard Discovery series as I document the building of our new backyard playset complete with fort, swings and monkey bars...
After a forced break due to rain and snow, the Montpelier play set is now complete. We had another half day of work to put on the finishing touches, which included building the slide (a step we had skipped before), attaching the monkey bars and swing beams as well as the bench.
We also bought recycled rubber mulch mats for ground protection (from Sam's Club) as well as sand for the sand box from Home Depot. Those were very easy to install and look great. Plus the rubber mulch mats won't blow or wash away or fade with time, or so says the packaging.
All in all, this project was pretty easy but it was time consuming. I did 90% of it by myself, an intermediate level DIYer, with some help from my husband, a DYI novice, the other 10% of the time. My mom also lent a helping hand for the slide construction. This is definitely a project that could be completed quicker with two or three experienced project participants.
No matter the time it takes you - it will be worth it. My children are thrilled beyond belief with the results and I'm feeling pretty proud of my work too. Plus - it was pretty fun!

Moms Club of Flagstaff

Hey moms - if you're looking for some other ladies in similar life stages to hang out with, consider joining the Moms Club of Flagstaff. They have playgroups as well as groups for moms to hang with sans the kiddos. Plus they do field trips, babysitting co-ops and more.
There's two groups in Flag - North for members living north of i-40 and South for moms living south of i-40. Get more info on their website momsclubflagstaff.com.

Flagstaff's 2011 Soar Into Spring festival

Fun at last year's festival

Check out Flagstaff's ninth annual Soar Into Spring festival. This year it is in May -Saturday, May 14, 2011 to be exact- at Foxglenn Park, 4200 East Butler Avenue, as always, from noon to 4pm.
Flagstaff Recreation Services hosts this awesome free event that's been voted AZ Parks and Recreation’s Most Outstanding Community Event.
The day includes kite flying, arts and crafts with the Northern AZ Celtic Heritage Society, carnival games, bounce houses, yummy carnival food, a climbing wall, face painting, the Flagstaff Library Book Mobile and Kiddie Kaboose Train. Lots of fun prizes and giveaways too.  Most activities are free. $3.00 wristband for unlimited rides on the Kiddie Caboose, bounce houses and climbing wall.
Parking is free at Sinagua High School and Knoles Elementary School.
For more information contact the Flagstaff Recreation Services at (928) 213-2300 or visit our website at www.flagstaff.az.gov/recreation.

Summer day camps for young kids at Flagstaff's Arboretum

Flagstaff's Arboretum has summer day camps for ages 4-5 and 6-7. Get complete info on their website TheArb.org.

Flagstaff's Lowell Observatory

Looking at the sun at Lowell

Lowell Observatory is a haven of science-based fun for kids and adults. Check their activity calendar before you go so you can get in on tours and special telescope viewing times of the wonders of the sky from solar viewings in the day to stars, planets, the moon and more at night.
Lowell is the home of Pluto’s discovery (even if you don't want to call it a planet, that's a pretty cool find)! You can learn all about that and everything else under the sun.
During the summer months, your admission is good all day so you can check out the tours and museum portions during the less busy daytime and return for stargazing when they are more crowded at night.
Lowell is open daily during both day and night June through August. Check their website for hours of operation other times of the year when they run on a different schedule.

Meteor Crater near Flagstaff

Looking out at Meteor Crater is fun for kids

Metero Crater is the most famous, best-preserved meteorite crater on Earth... and it's right here in Northern Arizona.
Meteor Crater is nearly a mile across, almost two and a half miles around and deeper than a 60 story building is tall. Because the terrain is similar to the moon, Meteor Crater was an official training site for Apollo astronauts. There's a museum at the edge of the rim that includes a great movie about the area that all ages will enjoy.
If you want to take the guided tour out to the crater’s rim, be sure to bring water and wear sunscreen and closed toed shoes. There’s no shade out on the rim at all. It is best to go early in the morning or in the evening when it isn’t as hot during the summer months. It can easily be 80 degrees in Flagstaff but 95 degrees at the crater. Meteor Crater is open everyday of the year, except Christmas.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff

Hiking at The Arb

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a educational and family-friendly outdoor experience with lots of potential.
A short drive along a dirt road west of Flagstaff (long enough to make you feel lost, though you’re most likely not if you followed the signs) takes you to The Arboretum at Flagstaff. Here visitors can learn of the natural flora and fauna of the region. You'll find guided nature walks and talks as well as special activities. Check their website for a schedule of events including free entrance days which generally include their first day of the season in April as well as Arbor Day. There are also easy trails to explore native birds around the arboretum grounds. The Arboretum is open from April to October only.

Backyard Fun: Building the fort of our backyard playground

As a Backyard Discovery Ambassador, I'm documenting the whole process of building a backyard swingset from the ground up. The company sent me their 2011 Montpelier playset to share my experiences building our family's first ever backyard playset/swingset. This weekend, we got to building the fort...And what a fort it is!
This baby is sweet! The bottom floor will have a sandbox, built-in counter/table and bench. The second story has a bay window, door and porch... plus you can also swing in via monkey bars.
I was excited to get to the fort phase but also a little intimidated. I knew this would be a task and it needs to be almost perfect because it is a structure and my kids will be playing in there.
The parts that are pre-drilled are pretty simple and go quickly, especially because at this point you are familiar with the part names and can find them quickly. But the parts that require pre-drilling as you go are a pain in the you know what, even with my husband helping me for this phase. (I've done about 90% of the construction by myself. I'm quite a do-it-yourselfer, where my husband is not.) I would prefer that every single hole was pre-drilled at the factory. But alas, as it is... you have to settle for about 85% pre-drilled.
I worked on the fort from about 8am to 4pm with a lunch break in there too. Most was done by myself. A few segments needed a second person... but those could have even used a third person for about 30 minutes. Otherwise, pretty easy to tackle solo.
My 5 year old did also help and LOVED it! I had her help me build the bay window and install it (which was so easy!). I was able to get it constructed minus getting the roof attached and building the bench. Then there's putting all the pieces together, anchoring it to the ground and setting it up with the rubber mulch for safety and sand for the sandbox. So there's probably another day of work ahead.
I have to say my hands are sore today - but so worth it! My kiddos are beyond excited as they see me building their playset. I was so proud to have my 3.5 year old say to me, "Mommy, when I'm a mommy I want to build my kids a cool playset like you are making. I'll do the tools and make the fort. Then I will be a good mommy." So sweet!
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to tackle this fun project.

Backyard Fun: Building our own wooden swingset

As a Backyard Discovery Ambassador, I'm documenting the whole process of building a backyard swingset from the ground up. The company sent me their 2011 Montpelier playset.
First up - picking the spot. It has to be about 6 feet larger than the area the set will take up.
We picked this spot:

This week the boxes arrived. I was glad to see that the whole thing could fit in two boxes... made me feel reassured that this was going to be a project we could handle. I think it is!

The two boxes were too heavy to carry with all of the parts inside, so the first thing we did was to open the boxes and take the piece to the backyard. As we did that we sorted them according to part name (each part is labeled with a letter and number) then checked off all the parts on the part list. All was there, whew!
Next it was time to start building! As the kids played nearby, we assembled the ladder, monkey bars and swings post. I wish the parts were all sorted according to what each section needs. It would save SO much time. I spent most my time looking for the right screw, nut, bolt, etc. Some of the building so far was awkward... but it was also really easy. Everything is pre-drilled and it is really a matter of looking at the pics in the instruction manual and following instructions.
All in all, we spent about 5 hours on this section of the sorting and building.

Tomorrow - we move to the building of the fort phase! Stay tuned.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Sunset Crater National Monument is a really cool and unique place to check out a few miles past Flagstaff's mall on the east side.
It features dramatic landscapes that you can investigate first hand with relatively easy hikes. The Lava Flow Trail even features a paved portion that is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Be sure to stop and read the plaques along the path to learn about the area’s fascinating past.
There's also camping near by.

Visit Flagstaff's Arboretum free today (April 1) plus on Arbor Day (April 30)

 The Arboretum officially opens for 2011 today! As always, all visitors are FREE.
Check it out with the whole fam from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. 
As always, The Arb will also be free on Arbor Day (April 30) and have lots of family-friendly tree-centric fun!
Find out all about this year's events at TheArb.org.

Indoor Flagstaff Fun: Camp Wannaplay playground in the Flagstaff Mall

Camp Wannaplay is a free indoor playground for kids 42 inches and shorter inside the Flagstaff Mall (4650 N Highway 89) near JC Penney.
This playground is the only one of its kind in the city, featuring soft objects to climb on and slide down. There's a cute slide inside a big tree, a slide across a mountain, a bridge and other fun stuff plus some space to run around and play. If it's too crowded little ones won't have fun, but when there's only a few kids there, it's a blast!

Flagstaff Summer Camps: Flagstaff Recreation Services Day Camp

Flagstaff Recreation Services will host summer camps for kids 5 (and entering kindergarten) through 12 years old this summer for $95 per week. Camps are Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm... and change themes each week. Participants will go on outings to the Aquaplex, Ice Arena, city parks and more. Call 928-213-2300 for more info.

Indoor Flagstaff Fun: Sporties 4 Shorties

Rock climbing during Sporties 4 Shorties

Sporties 4 Shorties is an awesome year round activity for tots 3-5 years old. Children sign up for 4 week sessions (check the Aquaplex calendar for the next openings) of fun from having fun on the climbing wall to playing in the water park part of the pool to scootering to soccer and lots more. It's a great way to tire tots out and get them socializing before starting kindergarten!
Sessions are on Tuesdays from 11:30-12:30 (though some months session times vary a little from this). Cost is $5 for a month for Aquaplex pass holders or $16 for non-pass holders.

Flagstaff Parks: Thorpe Park

Thorpe park (191 N. Thorpe Rd) is a massive Flagstaff park near downtown and Lowell Observatory with lots of amenities. It has two playgrounds, one of which is aimed at the 2-5 year old crowd, the other for five plus... plus two sets of swing sets, including lots of baby seat swings... plus a jungle gym type firetruck for climbing on and plenty of space for running around. There's also a section with lots of ride-ons of dinosaurs and such.
Add to that, Thorpe has several tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, basketball court, soccer fields, youth baseball fields, adult softball fields, a picnic ramada and picnic tables with grills,  racquetball courts, horseshoe courts a disc golf course, a dog park and thankfully portable and permanent restrooms.
It's a fun park that you can always expect to find other kids to play with while you're there.

Free Flagstaff Fun: 'First Green Fridays' eco-friendly events for the whole family

The Willow Bend Environmental Center (703 E Sawmill Rd) hosts First Green Fridays every month with three events for the whole family.
First - take the Recycling Tour at the Recycling Center (1800 E. Butler Ave.) from 3:00-4:00pm.
Then - take the Sustainable Living Tour at Willow Bend from 4:15-5:00pm.
Finally, wrap up the eco-friendly day with the First Friday Art Walk at Willow Bend from 5:00-8:00pm.
For more info, visit their website or call 928-779-1745.

Flagstaff Parks: Ft Tuthill

Playground at Ft Tuthill

Ft Tuthill County Park is on the southern end of Flagstaff. It has tons of picnic areas, 6.5 miles of trails plus a playground. The playground is small but in a nice wooded area and next to a picnic ramada, three picnic tables, two small grills and a composting restroom facility (with two handicapped-accessible unisex facilities). Read about having your birthday party at Ft Tuthill HERE.
There's also camping allowed in the park from May 1 through September 30.

Backyard Fun: Building your own playground

I'm excited to announce a partnership with Backyard Discovery, makers of all those really cool swingsets that have caught your family's eye (like the big one Sam's Club has on display). As an ambassador, I'm going to share my family's experience building their new Montpelier playset in our backyard this spring... plus care, maintenence, playdates and more as time goes on!
I'm happy to answer any questions any of you have about how to choose a playset for your own backyard, building it yourself and more. Stay tuned for a complete series on everything from picking the right spot in the yard to prepping the ground to building and even playing!

Backyard Discovery's Montpelier is what we'll be building in our yard!

New carrier for on the go with kids: Piggyback Rider

Piggyback rides are fun for kids but get so tiring for adults... that's why a team of two brothers that are dads themselves invented the new Piggyback Rider carrier. It's made for kiddos that generally don't want to use a stroller anymore but get tired of walking and want to be carried in the 2.5 to 7 year old range (up to 60 pounds).
Being a huge fan of carriers, the company sent me one to test out with my 5 and 3.5 year olds who are always asking Daddy in particular to be put on his shoulders whenever we take a trip (especially to Disneyland). So he was eager to test this one out too. We took it out on a hike to test it out (and we'll be bringing it to Disneyland this summer too).
Both my daughters loved this thing. They kept referring to it as "the ride thing" and asked to get on over and over, fighting over who would get to ride it next. And I see why, it's a pretty cool set up - kids put on a harness while the adult puts on the carrier. The carrier basically consists of carrier straps that go over the shoulders and buckle in the front (like other backpack carriers) but on the back there's a lightweight bar for kids to stand on. You can also attach the handy Piggyback Rider bag to hang at the bottom of the bar to carry any "stuff" you might want while doubling as a mud flap. Once both adult and child are hooked in, the adult gets down to the child's level while they stand on the bar, grabbing hand straps on the adult's shoulder. The the adult (or we found a second adult makes it easier) clips the child's harness to the back of the carrier and off you go. It takes just a minute.
The carrier is comfortable but feels a bit awkward at first as kids figure out where they should have their toes on the bar. Because kids are standing, they have to be awake and active while being carried around. Once everyone is settled, the ride is enjoyable for both parent and child. My husband said he found it a bit taxing as with him, the kids wanted to lean back and goof around while he was giving them a ride. Once they stopped goofing off, he too liked the carrier and said we should bring it on our next trip to Disneyland to use as we walk around at the end of the day when our 3.5 year old (especially) asks to be carried because she's tired of walking. It would also be good for parade watching!
For more information, to purchase, or find a store near you, visit www.thepiggybackrider.com. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter if you want to get more info.

Flagstaff Family Fun: NAU Fun Run benefit + costume competition

Get ready to lace up those running shoes. Willow Bend Environmental Education Center is having a fundraiser, hosted by the NAU Blue Key Honor Society. The 2nd Annual NAU Fun Run / Walk and Costume Competition is pet and kid friendly. The Fun Run is an 8k run or 5k walk. THere will also be a raffle. Kids 12 and under are free! Students, AmeriCorps members and seniors are $10, adults are $20. You can get a discount rate for a group of five students for $45 and five adults for $95.
The NAU Fun Run takes place Saturday, April 2nd at NAU's South Fields off of Pine Knoll Drive, across from the Forest Science Complex. Registration begins at 7:30, if you didn't sign up in advance. The costume competition and raffle starts at 8am and the run starts at 9am.\
Get more info and sign up HERE.

Free baby signs intro class next week

Learn how to communicate with your baby before he can talk with the free baby signs intro class at Bookmans on Tuesday (March 22, 2011) from 10-11am.
Bring your little one and learn how signing with babies work and tips on getting started.

Free Flagstaff Fun: Crafty pot and saucer cupcakes at Micahels this week

Courtesy: Michaels

Learn how to turn a clay pot and saucer into a giant decorative cupcake at a free event for kids at Michaels this weekend.
From 10am to noon on Saturday (March 19, 2011), kids 3 and up can come in and buy the pot and saucer and learn how to decorate it, including the other supplies, for free. No registration needed, but the event only lasts as long as the supplies do.

Easter-plex at the Flagstaff Aquaplex events for kids

The Flagstaff Aquaplex is hosting Easter-plex, a morning of Easter-themed fun for kids.
On Saturday April 23, 2011, the Aquaplex is having easter egg hunts in the pool and on the climbing wall plus arts and crafts and a visit from the Easter Bunny. The fun takes place from 8:30-11am.
The cost is $2 per child for passholders and $3 per child for non-pass holders. No pre-registration required.
The pool egg dive schedule is divided by age group:
9am: 4 and under
9:30am: 5-7 years old
10am: 8-11 years old
10:30am: 12+
For more info, call 928-213-2300.

Free Flagstaff Fun: Junior Archaeologist Day at Wupatki National Monument

Get your dig on this week by celebrating Junior Archaeologist Day at Wupatki National Monument tomorrow (Wed, March 16, 2011) and Friday (March 18, 2011  at 1pm.
These free events for kids 8-12 celebrates Arizona Archaeology & Heritage Awareness Month. Kids will learn about archaeology through fun, hands-on activities. Space is limited and reservations are required.
The event is free, but regular park entrance fees do apply.  For more information or to make a reservation call the Wupaki Visitor Center  at 928-679-2365.
More about Wupatki National Monument.

Free Flagstaff Fun: Easter Egg Hunt and spring festivities

Bounce on over to Bushmaster Park (3150 N Alta Vista) on Sunday, April 24th for the City of Flagstaff – Recreation Services’ 2nd annual Easter Egg Hunt!  Events begin at 11am and run through 1pm.
They will have Easter Egg Hunts separated by age, face painting, egg decorating, and a visit from the Easter Bunny -- all FREE!  Plus $1.00 raffles return and for $2.00, you can jump all you want in a Bounce House!  Food vendors will be there so you can enjoy lunch at the park.
Family fun every year!

Spring Break Camp: Flagstaff Gymnastics

Flagstaff Gymnastics is holding a Spring Break Camp this week from March 14-18.
The full week of fun is $125, $65 for a half day. Or you can sign up for just one day or go day by day at $30 or $20 for  half day. They also offer a sibling discount of 30%.
They're also having camps April 22 and 25 (Easter break at most Flagstaff schools), May 6, 16, 27 and May 30 (Memorial Day).
Call for more info or to register at 928-226-0696.

Family science event 'Radical Reptiles' this Saturday

The Willow Bend Environmental Center (703 E Sawmill Rd) is hosting a family science event this Saturday (March 12, 2011) that lets kids (4 and up) and their parents get up close and personal with reptiles native to Arizona.
The hands-on night of discovery (from 6-7:30pm) will include a fun reptile craft and interaction with live reptiles.
RSVP is required by calling 779-1745.
The event is free but they ask that you make a $5 donation per child to cover the cost of the event.

Free Flagstaff Fun: Spring Break crafts, stories & games for kids at the library

Enjoy free fun with the kiddos at the Flagstaff Main Library while they're off for Spring Break.
Tuesday March 15 through Thursday March 17, the library will host a free Spring Fling with spring time crafts, stories and games for all ages. Events start at 10:30am. At 1pm each day, they're playing a free movie for kids:
Tues.—Tale of Despereaux (G)
Wed.—Apple Dumpling Gang (G)
Thurs.—Scooby Doo Curse of the Lake Monster (G)
Friday March 18, the library will have a free movie at 5pm - Megamind - for the whole family.
Call the library for details at (928) 779-7671.

Flagstaff Parks: Kiwanis Southside Park

The Kiwanis Southside Park (1600 S. San Francisco) is across from NAU's Skydome and behind Kinsey Elementary. This is a fabulous park for toddlers. There are two playgrounds here with several slides of all sizes plus nicely enclosed areas for little ones to walk across and play on. There's also a little frog to ride and several wheels to spin. The park has several picnic ramadas for covered eating as well as a big grill and several uncovered tables. For more fun, there's a sand volleyball court (bring your own net and ball) and two horseshoe courts (bring your own horseshoes). It also has a portable restroom in the summer months.

Flagstaff Parks: Ponderosa Trails Park

A great park to take small children is the Ponderosa Trails Park (3875 S. Wild West Tr), just behind the Mountain School (map).
This park has a giant soccer field to run and play plus a nice playground, four swings (two baby seats, to regular seats) and a picnic ramada. There's also a portable restroom in the summer months in case potty trainers need one "now."

Flagstaff Parks: Bow and Arrow Park

Bow and Arrow park is a smaller neighborhood park, just off Lake Mary Rd. at 3701 N. Cochise Dr (map). It has two baby swings, slide, climbing playground, a half basketball court, and a nice sized field to run and play in plus several picnic tables. The area is shaded by lots of tall trees. There's also a port-a-potty in summer months. There's a long fence seperating the park from Lake Mary Road to make sure little ones can't wonder out into the busy street.

Flagstaff Kids Camps: Museum of Northern Arizona Discovery Summer Camps

A long running educational kids camp to consider for your children this summer are the Museum of Northern Arizona's Discovery Summer Camps.
For children 4 to17, Discovery day and overnight camps are a summer’s worth of wonder, taught by experienced educators versed in the region’s traditions. The 2011 Discovery Summer Camps will run from June 20 through August 12 and the schedule will be posted by March 15 at musnaz.org. We'll also follow up on it here at FlagstaffFamilyFun.com when the schedule is released!

Win a Schleich animal family set!

Check out this article in Angele's national parenting column for details on how to win a free Schleich animal family toy set. They make awesome gifts for kids!

Flagstaff Outdoor Fun: Mormon Lake Lodge

Petting a goat at Mormon Lake Lodge.

There's lots of free outdoor fun to be had for kids by taking a short drive southeast of Flagstaff out Lake Mary Road to Mormon Lake Lodge. You can make it a whole fun weekend and stay at one of their cool cabins... or just drive out for part of the day.
Under the free fun for kids category - Mormon Lake Lodge has a petting zoo with goats, shetland ponies and a donkey. You just go in and say hi to the animals as long as you like... if you show up at the right time you can also help them feed the animals (call ahead and ask what time is good for the day you will be visiting). They also have a heard of buffalo including some babies to check out (but not pet, they're too big!)
You can also go on one of the many hiking trails through the Coconino Forest for free too.
Plus they have a cool old stagecoach to explore as well as a small playground.
In the summer months... For little kids for $5 you can go on a horse ride down the street and back with a handler for about $5, complete with helmet. May seem like a short trip to adults, but it is just about the coolest thing ever to young children! Check out our YouTube video of horseback riding fun below! Older children and families can go on several hour and half day guided horseback rides.
If you have a fishing permit, or get one there, you can also fish the stocked pond!
For teens and adults, consider guided four wheeler tours.
In the winter months... Snowshoeing, cross country skiing and snowmobile tours are all family friendly fun.

Mormon Lake also features a family-friendly steakhouse to dine for breakfast (LOVE their pancakes!), lunch and dinner all year round.
For more info about anything and everything related to Mormon Lake, go to mormonlakelodge.com.