GUIDEPARENTS | OUTDOORS | KIDS | ACTIVITIES
Spring Issue Featuring 2 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR A NEW PARTNERSHIP: DES MOINES PARENT + MODEL FARM
ou may have seen some glimpses of an Yexciting new project coming from Des Moines Parent the past few months, but I am "5 &1"!1,,#Õ & ))6 ++,2+ ",2/- /1+"/0%&- with Model Farm. Des Moines Parent and Des Moines Outdoor Fun are partnering to unveil a new print publication. This will be the keeper to have on % +!Ą&+6,2/ /,/6,2/-2/0"ă 14&)) "Õ))"! with activities, calendars of events, coupons and offers, resources for things we all want and some things we did not know we needed. Through a partnership with our new publisher, Model Farm, we will be producing an 80-page publication distributed to over 700 racks around central Iowa on a quarterly basis. Iowa State Daily Media Group and Model Farm are a great partner because their 3 )2"0Õ14&1%1%,0",#"0,&+"0 /"+1ă%"0",/$ +&7 1&,+0 /"-/,#"00&,+ ))6 managed but student-run and right on the campus of Iowa State University. Model Farm gives students hands-on experience and provides growth opportunities as they transition into the professional world. When you pick up the Des Moines Parent Guide not only are you supporting a free resource for central Iowa families, but you are supporting students gaining "5-"/&"+ "&+1%"-/,#"00&,+ )4,/)! ×"/$/ !2 1&+$ă
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*** Before heading to an event or activity, please double check times an locations. We try hard to keep everything accurate, but things do change without notice.
3 CONTENTS 20 THINGS TO DO IN
07 DES MOINES FOR MOM’S NIGHT OUT
20 PLACES TO VISIT IN DES
19 MOINES WITH GRANDPARENTS Visit in Des Moines with Grandparents
DES MOINES AREA PARKS
31 PERFECT FOR MUDDY DAYS
38 COLORING PAGES
7 WAYS TO SURVIVE AND
45 THRIVE IN MUD SEASON
5 FUN OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO 51 WITH KIDS IN DES MOINES Survive and Thrive in Mud Season
SPRING BREAK IN DES MOINES 59
SUMMER CAMPS IN DES MOINES 65
MYDMPL CON 72
LIBRARIES IN DES MOINES 74
KIDS EAT FREE IN DES MOINES 78
4 Area Parks Perfect for Muddy Days
Spring Break in Des Moines
5 6 20
THINGS TO DO IN DES MOINES FOR MOM’S NIGHT OUT! Being a mom, a night out every now and then is super important for my sanity.
A night out with my girlfriends doesn’t , (""- 1% 1 Ē4% 1 0%,2)! 4" !,ċē % --"+ 0,×"+ 0 đ!)&("Ą 214%"+&1 #/,* % --"+&+$Ą * !" )&01 ,# !,"0Ą4"1"+!1,,-1#,/1%"0 *"/"01 2- 1%&+$0 1, !, ,+ *6 +&$%1đ0 ,21ă "/" / +1 4&1% 1%" $,,!Ą %" - * /$ /&1 0ă /"14"+161%&+$0*6$&/)#/&"+!0 +! Not that we don’t enjoy those margar- % 3""+',6"!!,&+$ģ +!1%&+$04"đ/" &1 0Ą 21 4" )4 60 1%&+( ,# 1%&+$0 4" planning on in the future): ,2)!% 3"!,+" ×"/1%"# 1ă 4.#' )# Ȃ -!-*(# $ .+ -/.
7 8 MOM’S NIGHT OUT IN DES MOINES
Jasper Winery
PINOT’S PALETTE POTTERY CLASSES JASPER WINERY ьBe sure to go to their эTake a pottery class (or юOR WINTERSET )"+! /Õ/011,0")" 1 simply painting pottery). CIDERY, L.L.C. the painting you’d like "đ3"$,+"1, ) 7"! I’ve spent plenty of time at to paint. I did this with Expressions many times Jasper Winery (their wine two friends last spring to paint pottery such as tastings with chocolates and we had a great time! bowls and coffee mugs. It’s is a must) but have yet Loved our instructor and a great way to relax and to try Winterset Cidery. the painting we did was chat with friends. It seems like the perfect awesome. Helpful hint: Glazed Expressions place to visit on a Saturday not only can you bring in (Clive, IA): ×"/+,,+4&1%#/&"+!0ă wine/beer, you can also (515) 224-4700 Be sure to check out their bring in food. We didn’t Five Monkeys website, as the Cidery is (+,41%&0#,/,2/Õ/01 (Des Moines, IA): currently closed for the time and were drooling (515) 537-5662 season and will reopen in over everyone’s dips and the spring. 3 /&,20 --"1&7"/0ă Jasper Winery Pinot’s Palette (Des Moines, IA): (Des Moines, IA): (515) 282-9463 (515) 277-7651 Winterset Cidery (Winterset, IA): (515) 493-9756
Photo credit: Jasper Winery 9 1010 BREWERIES COFFEE SPOTS BOOK CLUB яIf wine isn’t your ѐJava Joe’s, Caribou (on ёIf you even remotely thing, check out Exile Ingersoll), Grounds For enjoy reading, set (also had a great dinner Celebration (Beaverdale) up a book club with *"+2ĤĄ,+Ö2"+ " all come to mind when I friends. Books are great (try biking there, as it’s think of meeting a friend conversation pieces. Some right along the bike trail for coffee. Also, the books to get you started: and across from Gray’s cinnamon rolls at Grounds Evicted, Hillbilly Elegy, Lake), Peacetree, or Iowa are one of my favorites. The Alchemist, All The Taproom (there’s a huge • Java Joe’s Light We Cannot See. selection here). (Des Moines, IA): • Exile (Des Moines, IA): (515) 288-5282 CREME CUPCAKE (515) 883-2337 • Caribou (Ingersoll Ave. ђThey don’t have just • ,+Ö2"+ " Des Moines, IA): cupcakes, they have (Des Moines, IA) (515) 274-1644 an array of fabulous (515) 285-9005 • Grounds for Celebration desserts in the evening • Peace Tree (Beaver Ave. Des Moines, hours paired with drinks (Des Moines, IA): IA): (515) 255-4863 (martinis, coffees, (515) 883-2739 champagnes, teas, etc.). • Iowa Taproom The place has a (Des Moines, IA): great, sweet vibe for (515) 243-0827 girlfriend shenanigans. Creme Cupcake (Des Moines, IA): (515) 288-1050 Photo credit: DSM Parent 11 *+ѷ'$3- 2#*0. " '' -4ѵ*//*(' ȅѷ Flix Brewhouse theater. Bottom middle: Des Moines Social Club. Bottom right: Estila Salon.
FLIX CLASSES AT SPA DAY AT ESTILO ѓDinner and drinks єDES MOINES ьыIt may not be a while you watch the SOCIAL CLUB night out, but a day out movie. Show up early Vastly different classes are it’s just as good! Make ģ,/01 6) 1"/ ×"/6,2/ offered at the social club: appointments (schedule movie) for drinks. Check belly dancing, aerial boot ahead of time) and out their calendar for camp, break dancing for get pedicures and/or special movies and events kids, fantasy writing and manicures. Bring along other than their regular drawing class, and more. a bottle of your favorite movie showings. Des Moines Social Club champagne to sip while Flix Brewhouse (Mulberry St., Des you gab away. (Merle Hay Mall): Moines, IA): Estilo Salon and Day Spa (515) 612-9200 (515) 369-3672 (West Des Moines, IA): (515) 727-4980
12 Photo credit: Flix, Estilo, DSM Social Club 13 COOKING WITH ģ$/ &+$ ,##"" ×"/&0 excellent places to try: ььALESSANDRA must). There’s something Bubba’s, Django, CLASSES mind freeing about Tacopocalypse, Ceviche, Learn how to make sweating AND having fun Strudl Haus, Mi Patria, wonderful Italian food, get with a friend. To get you Louie’s Wine Dive (and keep) the recipes, and started, check out: % 3" + * 7&+$1&*"4&1% Powerlife Yoga THE CHEESE SHOP friends (and a fantastic (Des Moines, IA): ьяA wine and entertaining instructor). (515) 243-3383 cheese pairing night Cooking With Alessandra is phenomenal, plus it (East Village, Des Moines, A NEW teaches you pairings for IA): (515) 508-9474 ьюRESTAURANT future get togethers with EVERY MONTH friends. You could also EXERCISE A friend and I have done check out a show at the ьэCLASS: YOGA, 1%&0 ×"/$"11&+$1&/"! Des Moines Community SPINNING, WALK of our usual chips and Playhouse, right across AROUND GRAY’S LAKE margaritas on our girls the street! In the summer, Gray’s nights. We tried a variety The Cheese Shop Lake has yoga classes of restaurants and have (Des Moines, IA): on Saturday mornings a list of our faves. Some (515) 528-8181
14 Top: Burn exercise class. Bottom: The Cheese Shop
Photo credit: Cheese Shop , Burn 15 VINES TO WINES friends for cocktails. Botanical Bath Bombs. ьѐGo with friends to Blue Moon Dueling Piano There’s also Botanical make your own wine! Bar (West Des Moines, IA): Blues every Sunday Make a batch or go to a (515) 564-7300 ×"/+,,+&+1%"4&+1"/ă wine making session. Greater Des Moines Vines to Wines FREEZER Botanical Garden (Des (Des Moines, IA): ьѓMEAL PARTY Moines, IA): 515) 664-5161 I haven’t been to one of (515) 323-6290 these, however I have UP DOWN friends that set one up LINE DANCING ьёAn arcade bar that every month. Everyone эыCLASS (OR OTHER features skee ball and life gets together at someone’s DANCE CLASSES) 0&7" "+$ ă%&0-) " + house, brings their own I’ve done a line dancing keep you and your friends ingredients, and then class (and a salsa class) busy for hours! -/"- /"0#/""7"/ $ and loved it. Although I Up Down meals that can be eaten % 3"14,)"×#""1Ą ),3"! (Des Moines, IA): throughout the month. the class! Miss Kitty’s (515) 243-4322 offers just for fun classes, CLASSES AT available for all levels.ǣ BLUE MOON ьєTHE BOTANICAL ьђDUELING PIANO BAR GARDEN Great night spot to get This was put on my to do dressed up and meet list when I saw a class for 16 Photo credit: DSM Social Club 17 1818 PLACES TO VISIT IN DES MOINES WITH GRANDPARENTS
20Are the Grandparent’s coming to town? Are they babysitting for the weekend?
I have put together a list of 20 fun things to visit, eat and activities in Des Moines with the grandparents. Now, let us be honest, these 20 things are great for anyone who wants to explore the Des Moines area.
by Erin Huiatt
191 20 PLACES TO VISIT WITH GRANDPARENTS
Des Moines Botanical Garden building.
GRAY’S LAKE Lake also offers a lot of can register for Kids Bowl ь2101 Fleur Drive, shady areas and plenty of Free. When you register Des Moines parking options. each child receives 2-free This park is a great place games of bowling every to enjoy a picnic and take Hours: Daily 6 a.m. day, all summer long. a walk around the lake. to 10 p.m. Must pay for shoe rental There are a ton of activities and for yourself, if you 3 &) )"02 % 0Õ0%&+$Ą BOWLING AT would like to bowl too. sailing, canoeing, and эWARRIOR LANES swimming. There is also 190 SE Laurel Street, Hours: Monday-Thursday a small playground for Waukee, 515-987-4840 and Sunday Noon - 10 kids to climb on. Although Want to get out of the p.m.; Friday Noon- they offer many activities, heat this summer? Take Midnight; Saturday children have just as much the kids bowling at Noon-Midnight fun by just walking across Warrior Lanes. During the huge bridge. Gray’s the Summer each child
20 Photo credit: Des Moines Botanical Garden DES MOINES юBOTANICAL GARDEN 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines, 515-323-629 Take the outdoors indoors at the Des Moines Botanical Garden. This is a great place to explore and walk around if it is too hot or rainy outside. Walk around the gardens at your own pace. They also offer a Story Sprouts program every Friday through August 25; 10: 30 to 11 a.m. This class is an additional $3 on top of admission. Story Sprouts is an interactive story time that explores nature and plants. Take a break and enjoy lunch at the Trellis Cafe! Eat inside or sit out on their patio overlooking the Des Moines River.
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: Children ages 4 to 17 $6; Children 3 and under #/""Ć"+&,/&1&7"+0ƥàĆ!2)10ƥá
Des Moines Botanical Garden walkway. 21 Des Moines Sculpture Park.
DES MOINES water feature in the park even feed them during яCENTRAL LIBRARY where the kids and walk 0 %"!2)"!Õ0%#""!&+$0ă + PAPPAJOHN through and get wet. Bowl and eat at Uncle SCULPTURE PARK Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill. 1330 Grand Avenue, Hours of Des Moines This is another great Des Moines Central Library: Monday option to beat the heat. You can spend an entire - Wednesday; 9 a.m. to 8 Fish Feedings: Tuesday, morning in Western p.m.; Thursday & Friday 9 Thursday and Saturday Gateway Park which a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday & at 3 p.m. includes Central Library Sunday Closed and the Pappajohn (June-August) Store Hours: Monday Sculpture Park. Enjoy a - Saturday; 10 a.m. to 9 morning storytime and BASS PRO SHOP p.m.; Sunday; 10 a.m. activity at the library, ѐ1000 Bass Pro Dr. to 7 p.m. then walk through the NW, Altoona, 515-957-5500 several pieces of artwork You would not think there THE PLAYGROUND in Pappajohn Sculpture would be so many fun ёFOR KIDS Park. There are several things to do at a store! 2401 SE Tones Drive #7, picnic benches and green Wander around the Ankeny, 515-965-9899 space, so pack a lunch store and look at several The Playground for Kids to enjoy. Bring a change taxidermies, mounts, is a fun place to bring of clothes for the kids, wildlife facts and more. the kids to burn off some because there is a fun 1 %1%"Õ0% +! energy. There is a cafe 22 The Historical Building. area where you can sit play area. The play area is GREENWOOD/ back and relax while free and includes a small ѓASHWORTH PARK they climb, run and cafe of coffee drinks, juice + SPRAYGROUND play. There is not much and snacks at a small cost. 4500 Grand Avenue, activity needed from you They also have fun classes/ Des Moines except watching them activities throughout The Des Moines Parks enjoy themselves. the week including and Recreation completed Hours: Monday, Kids Zumba, Creative renovating this park Wednesday & Friday 10 Movement and more. last year. Greenwood/ a.m to 8 p.m.; Tuesday & Classes available start for Ashworth Park is tucked Thursday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. children ages 3 and older. behind the Des Moines Admission: 2-12 years old The cost is $5 per class or Arts Center with a lot of $8.99; Walkers up to 23 $3 per class with a punch shade and trees. There is a months old $5.99 card. Take a look at the playground, sprayground, schedule by clicking the shelter and bathroom VALLEY link above. facility. Pack a lunch and ђCOMMUNITY CENTER enjoy a day at the park! 4444 Fuller Road, West Hours: Monday through Des Moines, 515-327-6000 Friday; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ASHBY PARK The Valley Community є3200 38th Street, Center is a great place to Des Moines grab a coffee while the Are the kids looking to kids play in the indoor swim, but not interested Photo credit: DSM Parent, The Historical Building 23 in getting in yourself? Ashby Park is the perfect option! This park located in Beaverdale offers a splash pool about 1 to 2 feet deep. It also has two great playgrounds, tennis courts, shelter, shade, and bathroom facility.
Wading pool hours: Monday - Friday; 10 a.m to 7 p.m; Saturday & Sunday; 10 a.m to 4 p.m. Splash pool open seasonally.
THE HISTORICAL BUILDING ьы600 East Locust, Des Moines, 515-281-5111 This is a great place to explore and learn about this history of Iowa. Get out of the heat and/or rain and walk through the several exhibits at The Historical Building. There &0 )0, 0-" &Õ % +!0Ě,+ /" #,/ the children to play which includes a large tractor, a huge train table,
Union Park and Heritage Carouosel 24 Kids riding on the carousel. rubbing fossils, story CHOCOLATERIE UNION PARK nook and much more. ьэSTAM ью& HERITAGE 2814 Ingersoll Avenue, CAROUSEL Hours: Monday - Des Moines, 515-282-9575 725 Thompson Avenue, Saturday; 9 a.m. to 4:30 What child doesn’t love Des Moines p.m.; Sunday Noon chocolate? Chocolaterie A Des Moines original to 4:30 p.m. Stam is much more than park offers a ton of Admission: Free just chocolate, it is also a activities for everyone. fun experience. Take the Ride the Heritage Carousel CHICK-FIL-A kids to the local chocolate ($0.50 admission), walk ььVarious locations shop to pick out their through the Union Park This is a great place to favorites and enjoy them Floral Garden, watch the grab lunch or dinner and right in the store. Make kids climb and play on the let the kids play in the play sure you check their rocket slide or splash in area. The staff brings out website for special events. the water play area. There 6,2/#,,! +!4&)),×"+ are a lot of picnic benches 01,-1, 0( +!/"Õ))6,2/ Hours: Monday - Friday and shady areas available. beverage. Bonus, their 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday food tastes pretty good! 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday Carousel hours: May Noon to 5 p.m. 28 - August 23; Tuesday & Note: Closed Sunday’s Thursday Noon - 7 p.m.; Friday - Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Photo credit: Union & Heritage Carousel 25 DOWNTOWN SKYWALK ьяWalk through the downtown skywalks. The kids will love walking across the bridges and watch cars drive underneath, grab lunch or a snack at the many restaurants available.
ART TERRARIUM ьѐ106 11th Street, Des Moines 515-346-4155 Take the kids to learn about plants and create their own terrarium. Art Terrariums staff is knowledgeable and patient with small kids. Let the kids get their hands dirty and create their own growing masterpiece.
Hours: Sunday Noon to 4 p.m., Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday & Young girl creating a small Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. garden at the Art Terrarium. 26 Exploring the skywalks in downtown Des Moines.
Photo credit: Art Terrarium, DSM Parent 27 BAUDER’S ьёPHARMACY 3802 Ingersoll Avenue; Des Moines Take the kids to enjoy an old-fashioned soda fountain at Bauder’s Pharmacy on Ingersoll. They also offer delicious ice cream. A great experience for the entire family.
Hours: Monday - Friday; 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
DES MOINES ьђCOMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE 831 42nd Street, Des Moines, 515-277-6261 Take the kids to their Õ/011%" 1"/-"/#,/* + " at the Des Moines Community Playhouse. They offer several great shows for the entire family Performers at the Des Moines Community Playhouse. 28 Landscape of the Brenton Arboretum. each year. A few that are JAVA JOE’S THE BRENTON coming up are The Music ьєCOFFEEHOUSE эыARBORETUM Man and Disney’s the 214 4th Street, 25141 260th Street, Little Mermaid. Des Moines, 515-288-5282 Dallas Center Java Joe’s is a great place 515-992-4211 BARNES & NOBLE to grab breakfast or lunch. Spend the day wandering ьѓVarious locations ×"/4 /!Ą)"11%"(&!020" through beautiful trees Barnes & Noble is a great their imaginations and and connect to nature. -) "1,Õ+! %&)!/"+đ0 let them play in the small Nature play is encouraged books and educational playhouse located in a with the children and toys. They have a great special area. there are plenty of children’s area where opportunities available. they offer storytime each There is a bench and week and a small area for shaded Pavilion, where kids to explore and use you can relax as they play. their imaginations. Most locations offer a small Hours: Daily 9 a.m. cafe with lunch, drink, to sunset and dessert. Admission: Free ǣ
Photo credit: Des Moines Community Playhouse, Brenton Arboretum 29 TOP PET GROOMING IN DES MOINES!
1. Tangled Tails; Altoona, 515-381-0511 2. Dogwoods Lodge; Grimes, 515-986-7387 3. Bark Avenue; Ankeny, 515-608-8186 4. Bark Avenue; WDM, 515-444-5112 5. Shear Pawfection; WDM, 515-279-7297 30 DES MOINES AREA PARKS PERFECT FOR muddy days
%"+1%"4" 1%"/01 /101,Õ+ ))64 /*2- +!1%"0+,4 *")10Ą-) 6$/,2+!04&1%),10,#!&/1,/0- /0"4,,! %&-0 +12/+&+1,*2!-&10ă 1%,2$%1 đ!-211,$"1%"/ )&01 ,#-) 6$/,2+!04&1%/2 "/#,,1&+$ /,2+!"0,&+"0Ą W ,4 0,6,2 +$"1,210&!""3"+,2!,+đ14 +11,!, *&))&,+ ), !0,#) 2+!/6Ĉ%"0" /" /" ))- /(06,2 +3&0&14&1%,21$"11&+$ *2!!6 +! 2/+,## ))1% 101&/ / 764&+1"/"+"/$6ă
,4&01%"-"/#" 11&*"1, 260,*"4 1"/-/,,# ,,10#,/0-/&+$ -) 6&+$Ĉ"202 ))6% 3",+"- &/,#4 1"/-/,,# ,,10 +!,+"- &/ ,#1"++&00%,"0#,/0-/&+$Ą1%"+0 +! )0,/4 /*"/ ,,10#,/4&+1"/ă
" )0, !,/",2/ (&4" // &+02&10Ą1%"6 /"02-"/%&$%.2 )&16 +!6,2 + 26Û0&7"0 &$$"/ " 20"1%"6 &+ % 11%" +()"0ĸ 4 &01ĸ4/&010Ą0,1%"6đ/"4,/1%1%"&+3"01*"+1Ĉ"/#" 1#,/*2!!6 ! 60Ą 26,+",+* 7,+ă%"+6,2!,+đ1% 3"1, " 0-& (6 ,21 -) 6$/,2+!#,,1&+$ă by Stephanie Woodson
BEST WAYS TO CLEAN UP A MUDDY MESS!
1. Apply liquid detergent to mud and let sit for 15 minutes or soak in detergent before washing. сѵ*4*0# 1 (0 *)/# -+ /*-ޕ**-Ѽ $/0)/$'$/ -$ .Ѷ/# )0. vacuum to clean up. тѵ +2 /2$+ .*)# ) /* ' )(0 4# ) . ) ޔ)" -. !*- leaving the park. 4. Keep a special bag in your car to place all the muddy clothes and shoes before leaving the park. Make sure you have extra clothes on hand!
31 ANKENY DEAN PARK Address: SW 19th ST and SW College AVE Ankeny, IA 50023 Type: Places to get wet and Places to play and places to take a walk Bathrooms: No Shade: Yes, shaded shelter Playground: Yes Trails: Yes, paved Water: Yes, sprayground Other notes: Baby swings, basketball court, grill. Reservable shelter. Climbing wall. Separate toddler playground.
MIRACLE PARK Address: 300 NW School St Ankeny, IA 50023 Type: Places to play Bathrooms: Yes Shade: No Playground: Yes
Dean Park 32 Trails: No Water: No Other notes: Baby swings, separate toddler playground
ALTOONA IJ Ĉij Address: 2380 3rd Ave SW Altoona, IA 50009 – my Ironwood Park Google Maps takes me somewhere close, but not exact. Use the intersection ASHLEY OKLAND of 3rd Avenue SW and DES MOINES STAR PLAYGROUND PETE CRIVARO PARK 24th St SW Altoona, IA & NATURE TRAIL Address: 1105 E Railroad for a closer end-point. Address: 5300 Indianola Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 Type: Places to play Ave, Des Moines, IA 50320 Type: Places to play Bathrooms: "0Ą+,+ĚÖ20% Type: Places to play and places to get wet Shade: Yes, shaded shelter and places to hike and take a walk Playground: Yes Bathrooms: Yes Bathrooms: Yes Trails: Yes, paved Shade: Yes, shaded Shade: Yes, shaded Water: No shelter and shaded trails shelter(s) Other notes: Tennis, Playground: Yes Playground: Yes basketball. Really Trails: Yes, dirt trail Trails: Yes, paved unique playground with Water: Yes, stream Water: Yes, wading pool a wobble-y plank, sea Other notes: A part of the with spray elements monster, and some cool larger Ewing park, this Other notes: 9 hole disc hills that would be perfect has ramps for wheelchair golfgolf ccourse,ou basketball for sledding. Public Art. access and a wheelchair courtcourt (n(non adjustable friendly swinging deck, hoops),hoops), grill, reserve- in addition to adaptive ableable sshelter,he backstop swings and baby swings. There is a great hiking trail for young kids – not stroller friendly, lots of little bridges, muddy ×"// &+ă 12/"1/ &) map here (purple loop is closest to the playground).
OAKIWEAR RAIN SUIT: Available on Amazon.com for $69.99 + shipping.
Photo credit: DSM Outdoor Fun, Oakiwear 33 DRAKE PARK Address: 2300 Drake Park Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311 Type: Places to play and places to get wet Bathrooms: Yes Shade: Yes, partially shaded playground and shelter Playground: Yes Above: Images of Ashley Trails: No Oakland Star Playground Water: Yes, wading pool Other notes: Backstop, basketball, grill, Other notes: Easiest places to take a hike tennis, baby swings. access, besides the trail Bathrooms: Yes system, is via Northglenn Shade: Yes, shaded shelter JOHNSTON Drive. LIttle free library. Playground: Yes MORNINGSIDE PARK Trails: Yes, paved and Address: Merle Hay PLEASANT grass – short grass Rd & Morningside Dr, HILL nature trails are behind Johnston, IA 50131 COPPER CREEK the playground. Type: Places to play LAKE PARK Water: Yes, pond Bathrooms: Unknown Address: 4390 E. Other notes: Soccer, Shade: Yes, partially University Ave Pleasant reservable shelter. shaded playground Hill, IA 50327 Bridge to cross over. Playground: Yes Type: Places to play and Trails: Yes, paved places to take a walk and Water: Yes, creek 34 Copper Creek Lake Park
POLK CITY POLK CITY TOWN SQUARE Address: 107 South 3rd St. Polk City, IA 50226 Type: Places to play Bathrooms: No Shade: Yes Playground: Yes Trails: No Water: No Other notes:2 )& 4&ĚÕ KEEN LITTLE WEST DES MOINES KIDS’ ENCANTO WALNUT WOODS WATERPROOF BOOT Address: 3155 SE Walnut Reasons Why I Love: Woods Dr. West Des Moines, IA 50265 1. The top cinches up Type: Places to 2. Rubber toes hike and play 3. Bottoms of the boot feels Bathrooms: Yes like a sneaker Shade: Yes, shaded trails Playground: Yes Trails: Yes, dirt/sand Water: Yes, river
Photo credit: DSM Outdoor Fun, Keen 35 36 Other notes: Great short loop for young kids, bird )&+!ĄÕ0%&+$Ą , 1/ *-ă Reservable shelter. WINDSOR HEIGHTS COLBY PARK Address: 69th St & School St Windsor Heights, IA 50324 Type: Places to play Bathrooms: Yes Shade: Yes, shaded benches, partially shaded playground Playground: Yes Trails: Yes, paved Water: No Other notes: Separate toddler playground, outdoor stage, little #/"")& / /6ĄÕ/"1/2 (ǣ Walnut Woods
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38 39 40 41 42 43 44 7 WAYS TO SURVIVE AND THRIVE IN Mud Season by Sara Barry
You and your kids are tired of winter. But before spring comes in earnest, you have to make it through the dreaded mud season. The days are longer and sometimes warmer, but it’s melty and messy and hard to do much outside. Here are seven ways to survive mud season—and maybe even Õ+! )&11)"*2!* $& ă
45 7 WAYS TO SURVIVE MUD SEASON
PLAY IN THE MUD like robins, crocuses, or buds on the trees. ьEveryone is tired of being cooped up Add family or local symbols of the return inside, so ignore the weather and get ,#0-/&+$ă/"!& 14%"+6,2đ))Õ))&+6,2/ outside to play. Go to the playground. Ride bingo card, and have a picnic (indoors if bikes. Fly a kite in the brisk spring winds. you have to) to celebrate a bingo. Or really embrace mud. Make mud pies. Put on rain boots for puddle stomping. Not seeing many signs of spring yet? Instead of scolding kids for getting dirty, Cheat a little and visit a spring bulb surprise them by jumping in a puddle show. The warm, moist, fragrant air and splashing with them. +! ,),/#2)Ö,4"/0-/,3&!" /" ( from the chill, drab outdoors. SEEK OUT SPRING эThe calendar says spring arrives in SAVOR THE SWEETNESS March, but late snow storms and raw юSugar houses can also be warm, days don’t always feel like spring. Keep it moist, and fragrant this time of year. positive with an ongoing search for signs Warm days and cold nights are necessary of spring. to make maple syrup, so maple season +!*2!0" 0,+,×"+,3"/) -ă&0&1&+$ Make your own spring bingo cards. a sugar house brightens up early spring. Include pictures of classic signs of spring No sugar houses nearby? Hold your own 46 pancake breakfast to celebrate. Better READ ALL ABOUT IT yet, invite neighbors you haven’t seen ѐSometimes it’s still too raw to get much during the cold winter months to ,210&!"ă,762-#,/0,*"/" !&+$ ,21 join you. (Then see tip #1 and turn the the season. Choose stories and poems kids out to burn off that sugar together.) to celebrate different facets of spring. Think mud and maple, or dream ahead COME TO YOUR SENSES to warm days and gardens in bloom. яTake a senses walk and see what you Here are a handful of suggestions: notice. What colors do you see? What • And Then It’s Spring by Julie Fogliano is revealed by melting snow? Do you • Sugaring by Jessie Haas hear squelching mud or the drip of melt • Puddles by Jonathan London coming off the roof? Is the mud sticky • Maple Syrup Season by Anne Purmell ,/0)& (ċ 01%" &/0,×,// 4ċ +6,2 • Jo McDonald Had a Garden by smell the dirt? What does almost spring Mary Quattlebaum smell like? What tastes do you associate • Mud by Mary Lyn Ray with spring? You may not taste them on your senses walk, but you can come back GROW SOMETHING home to a springy snack. ёPlanting seeds offers hope for warmer weather. Some seeds can be planted as soon as the ground can be 47 4,/("!ģ&#$/,2+!&0#/,7"+,//" ))6 CELEBRATE SOMETHING boggy, wait). You can start seedlings ђThe Cat in the Hat knew how to have indoors to be ready for warmer, fun even when the weather wasn’t nice. drier weather. Try a Dr. Seuss read-a-thon to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday on March 2nd. Hold a If you don’t have room to set up plantings 0-/&+$Ö&+$1, ")" / 1"1%",#Õ & )01 /1 inside, try sowing in covered containers of spring on the vernal equinox March set outside. 20. Heading into April, enjoy spring • Collect clean plastic milk jugs. poems for National Poetry Month or plan • Cut nearly around the jug at the base fun tricks and jokes for April Fool’s Day. of the handle. If you look at a celebrations calendar, • Poke drainage holes in the bottom. 6,2đ))Õ+!" /)60-/&+$-"--"/"!4&1% %"+Õ))4&1% 0""!&+$0,&)*&5ă special days for everything from jelly • Add seeds, cover as directed, and beans to meatballs and penguins thoroughly moisten the soil. to pandas. Choose one and create a • Tape up the jug creating a mini celebration around it. You can even make greenhouse. Leave the top off and place up your own holiday. Maybe the last in a sunny place outdoors. Friday is Neighborhood Game Night or the second Saturday is Watch Cartoons in ,,+Ą6,20%,2)!0"" % 7",#$/""+ Your PJs day. Give yourself something to inside. As the weather gets warmer, open look forward to and break up routines. the jug during the day so the plants don’t You don’t have to love mud season, but cook. Close it during the cool nights. you can make the most of it. Even though When it’s warm enough, transfer your it might not feel like it, mud will dry up, plants to pots or a garden plot. days will warm up, and spring will soon be here for real. ǣ 48 49 50 FUN OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN 5DES MOINES If you are visiting or have lived here your whole life, summer in Des Moines, Iowa has a ton to offer. Check ,21 *6 1,- Õ3" ,21!,,/ 1%&+$0 1, !, this summer.
51 OUTDOORS WITH KIDS IN DES MOINES
JESTER PARK make your reservations at https://www. polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ Jester Park is a great place to visit or even parks-trails/14-jester-park/ camp when visiting Des Moines. This. 1,675-acre park sits on the western part Our favorite area, we visit frequently, of Saylorville Lake. It offers camping, $,)Õ+$Ą-& +& /" 0Ą%&(&+$1/ &)0Ą is the natural playscape. It is easily to Õ0%&+$Ą +,"&+$Ą+ 12/ )-) 60 -"Ą spend a half day just at this portion. There is water, bison and elk to see and bison to see and much more. Jester Park rocks to climb. A few tips if you head also offers an equestrian center which to the natural playscape: Bring bathing has horse rides and other fun activities suits and/or a change of clothes. The throughout the year. fountain and pond are the best parts for the kids so be prepared to get wet! Make Jester Park offers more than 168 sure to bring tennis shoes or hiking campsites and four modern rental shoes, if you plan to explore the trails. cabins. Each cabin has a two-story 4 )(,21Ö,,/-) +ă%"0" &+0 ,,( Bring a picnic lunch and/or healthy snacks and waters. out more than a year in advance, so
52 Photo credit: DSM Parent Natural playscape at Jester Park. 53 “The Monster” roller coaster at Adventureland.
of different room types ranging from ADVENTURELAND standard accommodations to suites. Does your family love rollercoasters? They also have two different courtyard Adventureland Amusement Park is /" 04&1%-,,)0Ą&+ )2!&+$ 7"/,!"-1% located in Altoona just east of Des Moines. entry pool for your little ones. This may Adventureland consists of an amusement be a perfect option if it is raining or cold park and Adventure Bay Water Park when you come to stay. Adventureland which contains over 100 rides for all ages. also offers a huge campground, if They also offer fun games and shows. camping is more your style. Learn more about Adventureland and Right next door is Adventureland Inn purchase your passes at https://www. which is a great place to stay if you are adventurelandpark.com/ in the area. They offer an assortment
54 Blank Park Zoo entrance.
BLANK PARK ZOO HISTORICAL %") +( /( ,,&0+,1 3"/6) /$"7,,Ą but it offers tons of fun for all ages. You VALLEY JUNCTION The Historic Valley Junction is a great will not want to miss the sea lion shows, place to wander around outdoors. It lions, monkeys, feeding the giraffes and offers fun, unique, local shops, and *,/"ă%"7,,,##"/0 + /" 4%"/"6,2 restaurants. If you are visiting during +#""! +!-"11%"$, 10Ą#""!1%"Õ0% the Summer, make sure you visit on and a large wooden playground where a Thursday evening. Every Thursday kids can play for hours. starting at 4 p.m. they offer a Farmers’ Market and Music in the Junction. It is a Our children love to ride the train great way to enjoy music outdoors and through the park, riding the camels and grab some local produce or other fun the carousel! Feel free to bring in a sack items from local vendors. lunch and/or snacks. They offer several Learn more about stores and events at special activities and events throughout http://www.valleyjunction.com/ the day. Take a look at their event calendar at https://www.blankparkzoo. com before you go to plan your day. Photo credit: Adventureland, Blank Park Zoo 55 Vendors at Farmer’s Market
DOWNTOWN % +!* !"-/,!2 10Ą-) +10ĄÖ,4"/0 +! so much more. There is live music and FARMERS’ MARKET fun children’s activities. The farmers’ Downtown Des Moines is a hot spot with market is located just off the Des Moines loads of fun. One of the most popular /&3"/ă×"/4 +!"/&+$1%"* /("1Ą4 )( farmers’ markets, the Downtown along the Des Moines river! Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday from May through October. There are Learn more about the Downtown nearly 300 vendors including vendors Farmers’ Market at http://www. with fresh produce, baked items, food, desmoinesfarmersmarket.com/ ǣ 56Photo credit: DSM Parent 57 57 58 SPRING BREAK IN Des Moines by Erin Huiatt
Spring Break Des Moines 2019 is just around the corner. There are several classes and workshops being held all over Des Moines. Check out this great list below and register quickly. These ) 00"0 + Õ))Ě2- 02-"/ # 01ă # * missing your class or workshop, let me know. Make sure to check out our event calendar to stay up-to-date with events and activities.
59 SPRING BREAK IN DES MOINES
exploration, and live ARTFULL animal encounters. For CLIMB IOWA MONDAY, MARCH 18 – SESSION 1: children ages 5 to 9 years. FRIDAY, MARCH 22 MARCH 18-19 Spring Break camp SESSION 2: registration is open! THE MARCH 21-22 Artfull will host two BRENTON 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. sessions. Mornings from ARBORETUM $125 member; $140 9 a.m. to Noon for grades MONDAY, MARCH 18 – non-member ĚÛ +! ×"/+,,+0#/,* FRIDAY, MARCH 22 1 to 4 p.m. for grades 3-5. Various times Climb Iowa camps Come explore an entire will introduce young galaxy of art! Enjoy various workshops adventurers to rock and programs during climbing, but we won’t BLANK Spring Break week at stop there. Children The Brenton Arboretum. will learn about trust, PARK ZOO Each day offers a different teamwork, and problem MONDAY, MARCH 18 – theme. Make sur solving while developing WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20 you register! their rock climbing skills 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday: Movie Monday; through interactive games $111 members; $156 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and activities. For ages 8 to non-members Tuesday: Tie Dye 13 years old. Tuesday; 11 a.m. to Noon This year’s Spring Safari Wednesday: Wilder theme is Zoo Clues. DES MOINES Wednesday; 11 a.m. Take a look and you can ART CENTER to Noon Õ+!0&$+0,# +&* )0 VARIOUS DAYS Thursday: Thoughtful everywhere outside! From AND TIMES Thursday; 11 a.m. to Noon scat to tracks, animals The Des Moines Art Center Friday: Filthy Friday; leave clues all around that offers classes for all ages 11 a.m. to Noon 4" +20"1,Õ$2/",21 throughout the year. what they have been up to. Pull out the magnifying $) 00"0 +!14""7"/0 +! join us as we become true Animal Detectives! This fun-packed camp will consist of hands-on )"00,+0Ą$ *"0Ą /1Ą7,, 60 61 Youth/Adult Pair, of plants! Find out why GREATER $20 Additional Youth. plants are green and how DES MOINES photosynthesis works, BOTANICAL LEAF PRINT-MAKING then create beautiful leaf GARDEN Tuesday, March 19 prints to take home. TUESDAY, MARCH 19 – 10:30-11:45 a.m. and FRIDAY, MARCH 22 2-3:15 p.m. LEAFY LANTERNS Thursday, March 21 Looking for a fun family Explore printmaking 10:30-11:45 a.m. and experience over spring techniques and create 2-3:15 p.m. break? Join us for an array multiple unique works of of drop-in activities (free art that celebrate leaves. Light up your spring with with paid admission) botanically inspired leaf from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and LOOK INTO LEAVES lanterns! Participants explore the diversity of Wednesday, March 20 will use natural materials )" 3"04&1%$ *"0Ą / ×0Ą 10:30- 11:45 a.m. and to build their own paper and activities. Members 2-3:15 p.m. lantern to take home. $20 Youth/Adult Pair, $15 Additional Youth; Zoom into leaves as we Nonmembers $25 explore the food factory
61 HERB WINDOW BOX World, Preservers of the a.m. to Noon (ages 5-12) Friday, March 22 Land, Families in 1900 and ASAP Art – 9:30 to 11 a.m. 10:30-11:45 a.m. and more. Prices vary on camp (open to all ages) 2-3:15 p.m. and how many days your Taste a variety of different child attends. Wednesday, March 20 herbs and then plant your Imagination Playschool own window box. This PINOT’S 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.(ages 7 and easy-to-care-for project is PALETTE under) perfect for indoor growing MONDAY, MARCH 18 – Baseball skills clinic – 10 and will make your THURSDAY, MARCH 21 a.m. to Noon (ages 5-12) recipes taste great. 1 to 3:30 p.m. ASAP Art – 9:30 to 11 a.m. (open to all ages) LEE COLE’S This week your kids have Thursday, March 21 MAGICAMP the opportunity to paint TUESDAY, MARCH 19 & popular and colorful, Imagination Playschool 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (ages 7 THURSDAY, MARCH 21 iconic animals. Each and under) 9 to 11:45 a.m. ×"/+,,+Ą&+ !!&1&,+1, painting, they will have a Basketball skills clinic – 10 RACCOON RIVER PARK /" 1&3" / × +!0+ (ă a.m. to Noon (ages 5-12) NATURE LODGE Kids ages 5 and up are ASAP Art – 9:30 to 11 a.m. (open to all ages) Spend two days learning invited to join us! Parents from professional magician are welcome to paint with Friday, March 22 – 10 a.m. Lee Cole on how to their kids or drop off. "+1"/1 &+ +! * 7"6,2/ to Noon Imagination Playschool friends and family! They PIONEER 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (ages 7 will learn all sorts of tricks COLUMBUS and under) and all magic material are COMMUNITY ASAP Art – 9:30 to 11 a.m. provided. For ages 7 to 15 (open to all ages) years of age. $45. CENTER MONDAY, MARCH 18 – Movie in the gym FRIDAY, MARCH 22 (TBD) – Noon LIVING Various Times HISTORY SKATE FARMS Monday, March 18 MONDAY, MARCH 18 – NORTH Imagination Playschool MONDAY, MARCH 18 – FRIDAY, MARCH 22 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (ages 7 FRIDAY, MARCH 22 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and under) 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ASAP Art – 9:30 to 11 a.m. Camps are offered (open to all ages) Learn how to skate at as 1-day or 5-day Skate School during Spring experiences. Receive a Tuesday, March 19 Break. Open to ages 5-12, 15% discount if you are a Imagination Playschool beginner and intermediate member. There are three 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (ages 7 skaters. $45 + tax themes to choose from and under) Celebrations Around the Soccer skills clinic – 10 62 NORMAL HOURS: Monday – Thursday 7 SPRING BREAK to 8:30 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday ARCHERY 1 to 4 p.m. THURSDAY, MARCH 21 & FRIDAY, MARCH 22 Wednesday, March 20: Pool Carnival; 1 to 1 to 4 p.m. 4 p.m. $6 per person for this event. 2 years of age & under free with paid RACCOON RIVER PARK adult; 3 years of age & older: $5; Annual NATURE LODGE Passes are available. Learn more here. ǣ
Looking for something fun to do during your spring break? How about spending some time at the Raccoon River Park Archery Facility? You will have the opportunity to practice your archery skills and possibly learn some new ones in this spring break day camp. $30. TIGERLILY STEM MONDAY, MARCH 18 – FRIDAY, MARCH 22 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Planning a stay-cation over spring break? Join us for some beach and ocean inspired STEM fun & learning! We will be exploring marine biology, chemistry, engineering design and construction, art, beach sports, games and more! $299 URBANDALE SWIMMING POOL SPECIAL SPRING BREAK HOURS: Monday, March 18 – Friday, March 22 open 1 to 4 p.m. additionally to their normal hours.
63 64 Summer Camps IN DES MOINES
It is that time of year to begin planning for summer! Crazy, right?! Des Moines Summer Camp 2019 registrations are +,4 ,-"+ +! 4&)) Õ)) 2- # 01ă (" a look at all the choices in the Des Moines area for summer 2019.
Please contact me if you would like your camp added to the list.
Photo credit: Gray’s Lake Park 65 SUMMER CAMPS IN DES MOINES
COMMUNITY CAMPS FITNESS + FUN
Here are some places around the CLIMB IOWA community that offer summer camps. Send your kids on a rock climbing adventure. Check out Climb Iowa’s • ANKENY PARKS & RECREATION unique summer camps. They will • CLIVE PARKS & RECREATION engage your child’s mind and body • DES MOINES PARKS & RECREATION while keeping them active and teaching • GRIMES PARK & RECREATION them new skills. Climb Iowa camps will • INDIANOLA PARKS & RECREATION introduce young adventurers to rock • URBANDALE PARKS & RECREATION climbing. Children will learn about trust, • WAUKEE PARKS & RECREATION teamwork, and problem solving while • WEST DES MOINES PARKS developing their rock climbing skills & RECREATION through interactive games and activities. Register and learn more at http://www.climbiowa.com 66 Blank Park Zoo.
Kid’s Camp (ages 8 to 13 years): 3 days; 9 children 5 to 12 years of age for summer a,m, to 4:30 p.m.; $180 for 3 days camp at Triad Gymnastics. Each week Kinder Camp (ages 4 to 7 years): 2 days; &+ )2!"01%/""Õ")!1/&-0&+ )2!&+$ 9 a.m. to Noon; $80 for 2 days swimming every Wednesday, gym time, Lifetime Fitness age-appropriate themed activities, and #2+,+ %2$"&+Ö 1 )"0)&-Đ+0)&!"ă You do not have to be a member of They offer full and half day care. Register &#"1&*"Ą1,0&$+Ě2-#,/1%"&/ * 7&+$ at http://www.triadgymnastics.com. summer camps! Themes include Pirate’s Life, Great Outdoors, Time Warp, Full Day: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $50 per day or 2-"/%"/,&77)" +!*,/"ă *-0 /" $195 per week available for ages 4 to 12 years. Register Half Day: 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. OR 12:30 at https://www.lifetime.life/ to 6 p.m.; $25 per day
PRAIRIE LIFE FITNESS **Other fees may apply. 10% sibling School-aged camps are educational and discount offered. fun for children ages 3 to 12 years of age. They offer full day camps with fun YMCA themed weeks including Pirates Week, Greater Des Moines YMCA offers several Spy Week, Everything Disney Week and summer camps. Each YMCA provides more. If you are not a member, guests different types, dates, times and themes can purchase daily passes at the front of camp. Check all locations. Check desk at $6 per day for children under details of each camp and register at 13, in addition to the camp charge. https://www.dmymca.org. Learn more and register at https://www. prairielife.com $175 per full week. Traditional Day Camp: An entire week of camp for children kindergarten TRIAD GYMNASTICS through 6th grade. Hours are 6:30 a.m. There are a lot of great options for to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, with
Photo credit: Blank Park Zoo 67 core programming, offered 9 a.m. to 4 They offer half day and full day p.m. $150 week for YMCA members, $195 opportunities. Half Day camps are $90 week for non-members. per week for members, $130 per week for non-members. Full Day camps are Preschool Camps: These camps are $180 per week for members, $260 per suited for children ages 3 to 5 years of week for non-members. age. They are offered 9 a.m. to Noon. %" 2(""), 1&,+,##"/0 + ×"/+,,+ CAMP FIRE HEART OF IOWA option, 1 to 4 p.m. for children ages 4 to 6 Camp Fire Heart of Iowa offers a wide years. $60 per week for YMCA members, variety of programs throughout central $100 week for non-members. ,4 Õ11&+$1%"+""!0,#,3"/+&$%1"/0 and day campers alike. Whether you Specialty Camps: These camps provide like creek stomping, bugs, or sports, opportunities for campers to explore they have got a summer of fun waiting 0-" &Õ 1,-& 0 +! /" 0,#&+1"/"01 for you! Offering programs for children including Camp Chef, Planet Animal in 1st -12th grade, Camp Fire offers a and more. Available for children variety of themed options to get your kindergarten through 6th grade. 6:30 child to truly experience summer. Learn a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. more at %11-0ąĸĸ444ă *-Õ/"&,4 ă,/$ĸă $190 per week for YMCA members, $235 Prices starting at $195. per week for non-members. CENTRAL COLLEGE SUSTAINABILITY OUTDOORSY CAMPS Central College offers a variety of camps and clinics during the summer for young BLANK PARK ZOO athletes, artists, and many others. In Sign your child up for a Summer Safari addition, the college hosts a diverse Camp at the Blank Park Zoo. There are array of non-college, multi-day activities, weekly themed camps available starting including summer athletic camps, in June through August. Camps are academic/business summits, and youth available for children ages 3 to 12 years conferences. Learn more at register at of age and run Monday through Friday. https://www.central.edu/camps/ Learn more and register at https://www.blankparkzoo.com.
68 LIVING HISTORY FARMS horseback riding, archery, nature trails Full and half day options available all and much more! Register at summer long at Living History Farms. http://www.easterseals.com/. Full day camp hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and half day hours are 9 a.m. to Noon OR RELIGIOUS CAMPS 1 to 4 p.m. Options available for children kindergarten through 8th grade. Prices CYC - CATHOLIC YOUTH CAMP based off of age and what session you Catholic Youth Camp is a co-ed, sleep- register for. away summer camp. Each day campers Register at https://www.lhf.org will be able to participate in 3-4 outdoor activities, along with CYC programming POLK COUNTY CONSERVATION and weekly staples like a talent show, The Polk County Conservation offers !,/ 1&,+ +!/" ,+ &)& 1&,+Ą *-Õ/"Ą several different summer day camps for carnival night, water fun day, dances, different age levels all season long in concerts, and more! For children in grades the Des Moines area. Take a look at all 3rd to 12th grade. Learn more and register the camps and register at https://www. at https://stmcenter.com/why-cyc. mycountyparks.com. LUTHERAN CHURCH OF HOPE: EASTER SEALS OF IOWA VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Camp Sunnyside is where children and Join Lutheran Church of Hope for a adults with and without disabilities week of action-packed fun! It’s a time can enjoy canoeing, an animal farm, both kids and volunteers won’t want
Photo credit: DSM Parent 69 to miss. Through large group worship, Session 4: 2)6ÛÛĚÛßģ,+Õ/*&+$! 1"0 *20& Ą0(&10Ą / ×0Ą,21!,,/ 1&3&1&"0 and location) Ridge Pointe Pavilion +!)"00,+0Ą %&)!/"+4&))"5-),/"Õ3" in Waukee awesome stories from the Bible for Session Time(s): Monday – Friday 8:30 children to learn and experience in a.m. to 4:30 p.m. memorable ways. Click the link above to Fee/class: $225 be directed to each campus, details on Age or grade of participants: Ages 6-12 dates and prices. Register at http://www. (At least completed Kindergarten and lutheranchurchofhope.org/. up to entering 6th grade)
WESLEY WOODS SUMMER CAMP DES MOINES ART CENTER Wesley Woods is located in Indianola The Des Moines Art Center offers tons and has lots to offer. Your child can of classes available for all ages. Fun enjoy horseback riding, wagon tours, themes include Patterns Gone Wild, Wild swimming, broken arrow pond, slip-n- Animal Posters, Wild Hair Portraits and 0)&!"Ą +,"&+$Ą )&* &+$4 ))ĄÕ0%&+$Ą more. Camps are available for children bible study, worship and much more. as young as 5 years of age. Register at Learn more and register at http://www. https://www.desmoinesartcenter.org. wesleywoodsiowa.org. DES MOINES ART, MUSIC + SCIENCE COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE There are camps available for all ages CAMP BRAINIAC starting from Kindergarten through Enjoy a full-day summer day camp that grade 10. Camps are grouped by age welcomes elementary school age kids level so children can learn according to 6-12! Camp Brainiac gives kids a break their developmental needs. Keep an eye from the classroom but not necessarily out for more details to be announced from learning. Planned and run by Iowa for summer 2019. Visit https://www. licensed teachers, Brainiac campers dmplayhouse.com/ for more details. will spend their days immersed in experiential learning with new activities GREATER DES MOINES each session. Campers have plenty of BOTANICAL GARDEN outdoor and free time to burn off energy Spend your summer in Des Moines at the too. This isn’t like REAL summer school! Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. A Camp sessions are limited to 30 kids to lot of great options are available starting ensure maximum fun. Visit https://www. in June through August. Themes include campbrainiac.com/ to learn more. Plants Unleashed, Magic in the Garden, Budding Chefs, and more. Camps are Session 1: June 17-21 at Colby Park in designed for children ages 6 to 10 years Windsor Heights of age. Camps run Monday through Session 2: 2)6áĚÚÛģ,+Õ/*&+$! 1"0 Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register at and location) Ridge Pointe Pavilion https://www.dmbotanicalgarden.com. in Waukee Price is $210 per week for members, Session 3: July 15-19 at Colby Park in $250 per week for non-members. Windsor Heights 70 Classes at the Science Center of Iowa.
SCIENCE CENTER OF IOWA The Science Center of Iowa is another great option for a Des Moines Summer Camp in 2019 because they offer a lot of options for all ages starting at Pre-k through 8th grade. Morning camps run â ă*ă1,,,+ +! ×"/+,,+ *-0 run 1 to 4 p.m. $105 per week member, $130 per week non-member. For older children, no half-day option is available. $210 per week member, $260 per week non-member. Learn more at register at %11-0ąĸĸ444ă0 &,4 ă,/$ăǣ Photo credit: DSM Parent 71 72 he Des Moines Central Library MEET THE LUCHADORES! will transform into an interactive яLuchadores, the term for Mexican hub of family-friendly festival wrestlers, will set up a real wrestling for all fandoms on Sunday, May ring outside the library, where they’ll T5 at the second annual MyDMPL Con. perform and sign autographs for fans. And it’s all FREE. )0,,210&!"ĄÕ+!), )#,,!1/2 (0)&(" Outside Scoop for refueling. More than 1,000 people – many in costumes of their favorite superheroes, PLAY VIDEO GAMES! &0+"6-/&+ "00"0 +!Õ)* % / 1"/0 ѐOne entire room inside the library – stopped by at the inaugural MyDMPL will be geared towards teens and tweens, Con in 2018, and this year’s version will featuring a chance to play classics video " &$$"/ +! "11"/ă "/" /"Õ3"Ĝ,# games like Mario Kart and Super Smash 1%"* +6Ĝ1%&+$06,2 +"5-" 11,Õ+!ą Bros. Attendees can also learn how to do 7,* &" ,0-) 6Ą* +$ / ×0Ą,/&$ *& COSTUMES, COSTUMES AND and more. ьMORE COSTUMES! In addition to children and families This is just a small dose of everything !/"00"! 01%"&/# 3,/&1"ĄÕ)* 6,2đ))Õ+! 11%"0" ,+!6,+ă and video game stars, many of your Go to dmpl.org for more information. favorite characters will be walking around the library for pictures, hugs IF YOU GO +!%&$%ĚÕ3"0ă*,+$1%,0"6,24&)) 2019 MyDMPL Con see: Wonder Woman and the Iowa WHEN: 1-5 p.m., Sunday, May 5 League of Heroes, Disney princesses WHERE: Des Moines Central with Little Princess Parties, Paw Library, 1000 Grand Ave. Patrol puppies, and many more. COST: Free! Free parking will also be available. EXPLORE THE WORLD MORE INFO: Go to dmpl.org for эOF HOGWARTS! a full lineup and schedule. Attendees will have a chance to explore *Tim Paluch is the Community 0"3"/ )/,,*0!"!& 1"!1,0-" &Õ Engagement Supervisor for the fandoms, including Harry Potter "0,&+"02 )& & / /6ăǣ 1&3&1&"0ă +0&!"ĄÕ+!,216,2/- 1/,+20Ą create your own remembralls, and even check out DumbleDore’s desk.
GET HANDS-ON WITH юINTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES! It’s not just costumes, either. Attendees can jump into their favorite movies or video games with a green screen, watch a Jester Puppets show, learn with IPTV, do science experiments with the Science Center of Iowa, make your own art, and more.
Photo credit: Des Moines Public Library 73 LIBRARIES IN DES MOINES
Have you been to your local library lately? calendar! Also check your local library Central Iowa libraries are one of the best for classes and story time for your kids. free resources available to parents. You Here is a list of local libraries: can borrow books, DVDs, CDs, audio ,,(0Ą* $ 7&+"0 +!Ě ,,(0 1+, ,01Ĉ ADEL LIBRARY That’s right for free. If you are a parent 303 S 10TH STREET ADEL, IA 50003; who is constantly renting movies for 515-993-3512 the kiddos or buying new books at the Monday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Tues - Thurs bookstore this could save you some major 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; cash. Plus you can pick up some great Saturday 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; Sunday: things for yourself as well. Here are just a CLOSED few things at your local library that could Website: http://adelpl.org/ make your life easier: ALTOONA LIBRARY • PARENTING BOOKS – Tons of books 700 8TH STREET SW ALTOONA, IA out there on this subject 50009; 515-967-3881 • COOKBOOKS – Find recipes for quick, Mon - Thurs 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Fri & Sat 9 make ahead or crock pot meals that will a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. give you more time for other fun stuff Website: https://www.altoona.lib.ia.us/ (like laundry) • ADVENTURE PASSES - A lot of the KIRKENDALL local libraries allow you to check-out an LIBRARY Adventure Pass which provides admission 1210 NW PRAIRIE RIDGE DR. ANKENY, into the Science Center of Iowa, Blank IA 50023; 515-965-6460 Park Zoo or Living History Farms. Mon – Thurs: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Fri – Sat: • PUPPETS, AMERICAN DOLLS AND 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Sunday: 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. MORE - A lot of libraries offer fun Website: https://www.ankenyiowa.gov/ puppets to check out. The Grimes Public Library has American Dolls to check out! CLIVE LIBRARY • DVDS – Movies for veg out time when 1900 NW 114TH STREET CLIVE, IA the kids are asleep or perhaps a Pilates or 50325; 515-453-2221 Yoga video for stress management Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. | • STORY TIMES AND OTHER FUN Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Saturday 9 a.m. – PROGRAMMING - The local library 5 p.m.| Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. offers several story times for different Website: https://www.cityofclive.com/ $"0Ą ! 60Ą / ×0Ą 1&3&1&"0 government/library and more. Take a look at their event 74 CENTRAL LIBRARY FRANKLIN AVENUE 1000 GRAND AVENUE, 50309; LIBRARY 515-283-4152 5000 FRANKLIN AVENUE, 50310; Mon-Wed: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Thu – Fri: 9 515-283-4152 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Sat: CLOSED | Sun: 1 – 5 Mon-Tue: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Wed: 10 a.m. p.m. [September - May] – 6 p.m. | Thu: CLOSED | Fri: 10 a.m. – 6 Pick-Up Window Hours: Mon – Fri: 4 – 6 p.m. | Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sun: CLOSED p.m. | Sat: CLOSED Website: https://dmpl.org/locations- Website: https://dmpl.org/locations- hours/franklin-avenue-library hours/central-library NORTH SIDE LIBRARY EAST SIDE LIBRARY 3516 FIFTH AVENUE, 50313; 2559 HUBBELL AVENUE, 50317; 515-283-4152 515-283-4152 Mon: CLOSED | Tue-Wed: 10 a.m. – 8 Mon-Tue: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Wed: p.m. | Thu-Fri: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Sat: 10 CLOSED | Thu- Fri: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Sat: a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sun: CLOSED 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sun: CLOSED Website: https://dmpl.org/locations- Website: https://dmpl.org/locations- hours/north-side-library hours/east-side-library SOUTH SIDE FOREST AVENUE LIBRARY LIBRARY 1111 PORTER AVENUE, 50315; 1326 FOREST AVENUE, 50314; 515-283-4152 515-283-4152 Mon: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Tue: CLOSED | Mon: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Tue-Wed: 10 Wed: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.| Thu-Fri: 10 a.m. – a.m. – 6 p.m. | Thu: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Fri: 6 p.m. | Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | CLOSED | Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sun: CLOSED Sun: CLOSED Website: https://dmpl.org/locations- Website: https://dmpl.org/locations- hours/south-side-library hours/forest-avenue-library
75 GRIMES LIBRARY 200 NORTH JAMES STREET GRIMES, IA 50111; 515-986-3551 Mon - Thurs 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. Website: https://www.grimes.lib.ia.us/ INDIANOLA LIBRARY 207 N. B STREET INDIANOLA, IA 50125; 515-961-9418 Mon - Weds 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Fri & Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday: CLOSED Website: http://www.indianolaiowa. gov/227/Library URBANDALE LIBRARY 3520 86TH STREET URBANDALE, IA 50322; 515-273-3945 Mon - Thurs 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Fri - Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. Website: http://www.urbandale library.org/ 76 WEST DES MOINES WAUKEE LIBRARY LIBRARY 950 WARRIOR LANE, WAUKEE IA 4000 MILLS CIVIC PARKWAY WEST DES 50265; 515-978-7944 MOINES, IA 50265; 515-222-3400 Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Mon - Thurs 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. Friday 9 am – 5:30 pm | Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday 4 p.m.| Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. 2 to 5 p.m. Website: https://waukeepublic Summer Hours (Memorial Day - Labor library.org/ ǣ Day): Mon - Thurs 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sunday: CLOSED Website: http://www.wdmlibrary.org/
77 KIDS EAT FREE IN DES MOINES
MONDAY breakfast item of the week 7 to p.m. and children 10 years and Fighting Burrito: Kids 10 a.m. Located in under. Located in Ankeny. 10 and under eat free with Ankeny, Des Moines and purchase of an adult entree! W. Des Moines. IHOP: One child eats free with Located in Des Moines. purchase of an adult entree. All Chili’s: Children can receive day long. Ankeny location. IHOP: One child eats free with a free entree off the kids menu purchase of an adult entree. All per adult. Located in Ankeny. Perkins: Kids can eat free day long. Ankeny location. ALL DAY, with the purchase Chuck’s Restaurant: Kids 10 of an adult meal. Located Jethro’s: One free kid’s meal and under eat free with an adult in Altoona, Ankeny, Des with one adult entree. All entree. Located in Des Moines. Moines, and W. Des Moines. day long. Several locations. Denny’s: Buy one adult Pizza Ranch: Children 10 Los Charros: Receive one meal and TWO kids can years and under eat free with free kids meal with every eat free! Located in Clive. the purchase of an Adult Buffet adult meal purchased and soft at regular price. Located in drink. Located in Ankeny. Famous Dave’s: Children Altoona, Ankeny, Indianola, can receive a FREE Lil’ Urbandale and Waukee. Spaghetti Works: Wilbur Kids meal with an Kids 11 and under eat adult entree. Located in Des Ruby Tuesday: Kids eat free all day Monday! Moines & W. Des Moines. free 5 p.m. to close with the Downtown Des Moines. purchase of an adult entree. Fazoli’s: Purchase one adult Located in Urbandale. Maxies: Kids 12 and under eat meal and receive TWO kids for $1. 4:30 to 9 p.m. Beverages meals for 99 cents each from 5 Sports Page Grill: Kids eat not included. One kids meal pm to 8 pm. Located in Ames, free with the purchase of an per each paying adult meal. Ankeny and Des Moines. adult meal. Located in Ankeny. Located in W. Des Moines. Fuddruckers: Kids eat Village Inn: Kids can eat free Village Inn: Kids can eat free free with one adult meal. with the purchase of an adult with the purchase of an adult Located in W. Des Moines. meal! Located in Altoona, meal! Located in Altoona, Ames, Ankeny, Des Moines, Ames, Ankeny, Des Moines, Gateway Market: One of my Johnston, and W. Des Moines. Johnston, and W. Des Moines. favorites! Kids eat free after 4 pm. Buy one adult meal and Wobbly Boots: Kids eat TUESDAY receive TWO free kids meals! free all day on Tuesday. Bennigans: Kids eat free Located in Des Moines. Located in Clive. with the purchase of an adult entree. 4 to 10 p.m. Godfather’s: Kids can eat WEDNESDAY Located in Urbandale. free at the buffet with adult Applebee’s: Kids meals Chick-Fil-A: Grab a free buffet purchase. 5 p.m. to 7:30 are half-price all day. 78 Bakers Square: Free pie Cozy Cafe: Receive a free kids Gusto Pizza: Children can Wednesday! Enjoy a FREE meal for lunch or dinner with enjoy a free kids 7” single slice of pie with every meal an adult meal. Located in Des topping pizza and a fountain purchased. Located in Clive. Moines, Johnston, Urbandale, drink with the purchase of a Waukee and W. Des Moines. 10” or 14” pizza. Located in Buffalo Wild Wings: Kids Johnston and W. Des Moines. meals are half off with the Hy-Vee Market Grille: purchase of an adult meal. Another favorite! Kids 10 Legends American Grille: Located in Ames, Ankeny, Des and under eat free with the Kids eat 1/2 off with adult Moines, and W. Des Moines. purchase of an adult meal. meal. Located in Johnston These are located ALL over! and W. Des Moines. Cozy Cafe: More FREE In most cases, wherever there pie! Free slice of pie with is a Hy-Vee you will find a Longest Yard: Kids eat the purchase of a meal. Hy-Vee Market Grille. free with an adult meal. Located in Des Moines, Located in Valley Junction. Johnston, Urbandale, Waukee Mama Lacona’s: After 5 and W. Des Moines. pm kids eat free with an adult Malo: Kids eat free from 10am meal. Located in Urbandale. to 2 p.m. with the purchase Dairy Queen: Waukee only, Mixed: Children can receive of an adult brunch buffet. children can receive a free kids a free kid’s meal with every Located in Des Moines. meal with the purchase of an adult meal purchased. adult meal. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located in W. Des Moines. Mickey’s Irish Pub: Free kids meal with an adult meal. Firehouse Subs: Kids eat SATURDAY Located in Waukee. free all day with the purchase Gusto Pizza: Children can of an adult combo meal. enjoy a free kids 7” single Sam & Louie’s Pizza: Located in Ames, Clive, Des topping pizza and a fountain Free kids meal 12 years and Moines and W. Des Moines. drink with the purchase of a under with every $12 spent. 10” or 14” pizza. Located in Located in Urbandale. Pepperjax Grill: Kids Meals Johnston and W. Des Moines. are 99 cents all day. Limited to EVERYDAY two with the purchase of an Z’Mariks: You can receive Cici’s Pizza: Kids 3 and under adult entree. Kids 12 and under. one free kids bowl when eat FREE every day of the Located in Ankeny and Clive. you purchase an adult bowl! week! Located in Des Moines. Located in Ankeny and Clive. R Taco: One free kids item McAlister’s Deli: All kids per adult item purchased SUNDAY meals are 99 cents every (limit one per kid). The Chicken Coop: Kids day when you dine-in. eat free with the purchase of Beverages are not included. Wig and Pen: Kids 12 and an adult meal. Dine in only. Located in W. Des Moines. under can eat free. Beverages Located in W. Des Moines. are not included. Multiple kids Sonic: Enjoy 1/2 price may eat free with a single adult Fireside Grille: Kids eat slashes and soft drinks from entree. Located in Ankeny free with one adult meal. 2 to 4 p.m. daily. Located in Located in Altoona. Ankeny and Johnston. ǣ THURSDAY 5 De Mayo: Receive a free Guadalajara’s: Kids eat free kids meal for each adult meal. with an adult meal. Located Located in Des Moines and in Ankeny. W. Des Moines. 79 80