Cape Cod Kidz

Here’s hoping Mother’s Day weekend was as special as mine was last week. This weekend we have been promised sun! So get out of your homes and enjoy all that the summer has to offer on Cape Cod, because we’re getting a sunny preview this weekend!

The Cape Cod Kidz What to do on the Weekend Guide by Christine Chapman On Friday May 18, 2012:

• Music and Movement Playgroup 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Music and Movement Playgroup for ages 2 ½ – 5 years. Please register with the Coalition for Children. Contact: Tina Toran 508-548-0151 ext. 172 or ttoran@falmouth.k12.ma.us in the Children’s Program Room at Falmouth Public Library in Falmouth.
• "Wild" Drop-In Preschool Storytime10:00 AM. New! 'Wild' Drop-in preschool storytime. Thursdays at 1:00 pm on May 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th. Fridays at 10:00 am on May 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th. For preschool aged children and their siblings to listen to stories and hands-on exploration of "wild" Cape Cod ponds, woods, marshes and sea! At the Sandwich Public Library in Sandwich.
• Critter Capers at Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich from 10:30AM – 11:00AMCritter Capers, Fridays at 10:30 AM, year-round. Drop in for a half-hour visit with a naturalist and one of the resident animals. Suitable for children ages 2.5 and up. Advanced registration is NOT required. Free to members; $2 per person for non-members.
• Animal Story Time10:30 AM is an old-time favorite. Head out to the Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen in East Sandwich to enjoy this wonderful weekly event with your little ones.
• Baby Playgroup 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Baby Playgroup for ages birth – 14 months, please register with the Coalition for Children. Contact: Tina Toran 508-548-0151 ext. 172 or ttoran@falmouth.k12.ma.us in the Children’s Program Room at Falmouth Public Library in Falmouth.

Don't fish for dinner--head to Moby Dick's and support the WES PTA.

• White Whale Week Fundraiser Wellfleet Elementary School PTA fundraiser: May 13 - 19th Come on down to Moby Dick’s restaurant in Wellfleet for White Whale Week! A portion of the proceeds goes to the Wellfleet Elementary School PTA. It’s a great meal for a great cause! Moby Dick's Restaurant in Wellfleet.

On Saturday, May 19 2012:

• Jammin for Julian: A Concert for a Cause A benefit for 6 year old Julian Gabriel from Dennis who has recently been diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He is spending the next 7 weeks as an inpatient at Boston Childrens Hospital receiving intense chemotherapy treatments and then (hopefully) as an outpatient for the remainder of the next 2 years. This benefit is being held so that we might raise some funds to offsets costs and financial burdens they will be facing for the next 2 years while he is undergoing treatment. Silent Auction being help from 1 pm to 6 pm. Hundreds of wonderful items and gift certificates from local restaurants and merchants. LIVE music throughout the day featuring performances by Shango Axe, Funktapuss, Highly Suspect, The Mighty Ceej, Brendan Princi, Angela McCluskey, Cape Cod African Dance and Drum and more!  Kids events from 1-6 including face painting, henna tattoos, popcorn, cotton candy and an African drum workshop at 2pm~All proceeds will go directly into the Julian Gabriel Benefit Fund that has been established at Cape Cod Five. To make a donation online people can go to www.jamminforjulian.blogspot.com $15 for adults, 5$ for children. Improper Bostonian in Dennisport.

• White Whale Week Fundraiser: Wellfleet Elementary School PTA fundraiser: May 13 - 19th Come on down to Moby Dick’s restaurant in Wellfleet for White Whale Week! A portion of the proceeds goes to the Wellfleet Elementary School PTA. It’s a great meal for a great cause! Moby Dick's Restaurant in Wellfleet.

• Bird Banding Demonstrations with Sue Finnegan, Certified Master Bird Bander and Manager, Wing Island Bird Banding Station 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present Bird Banding Demonstrations hosted by Sue Finnegan, Certified Master Bird Bander and Manager, Wing Island Bird Banding Station.  Here is an extraordinary opportunity to see a variety of live birds at close range and learn why banding is important. You may even be able to release a bird after banding. Meet at the front door of the Museum at 8:30 am. In case of rain, the program will be cancelled. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster.

Yoga with the little ones!

• Yoga with Families with Kristen Machon 10:00 AM. Families will learn basic yoga techniques to use at home. Saturday, May 19 - 10:00 am grades K-5. Classes are Free. All participants must pre-register for class! Space is limited. Location: Leonard Room at the South Yarmouth Library (Lower Level). For more information please contact Jayne in the Children's Department at 508-760-4820 ext. 1316. Bring a Yoga Mat (we have some to share if you need a mat) and water! Parents must stay in room with their child(ren). Register today online.
• Do You Think Like a Scientist? Join ECO-Kids Cape Cod 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM Do You Think Like a Scientist? Join ECO-kids Cape Cod. Students ages 7 - 11 are invited to come explore, discover and experience the nature and science of the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. Sessions are Saturdays, April 28th and/or May 19th at 10AM. No charge. Reservations are required as space is limited. Sessions will be filmed. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster.
• Tour de Chatham Bike Tour 10:00 AM. A bicycle fun ride for Chatham’s 300th anniversary! The whole family will enjoy this outing,which offers two great ways to see scenic Chatham: a 7-mile tour through town or a longer 23-mile ride which adds the Old Colony Rail Trail. Two different rides are available to suit all riders, one of 7 miles and one of 23 miles, both starting at 10:00 A.M. at Oyster Pond near downtown. Please take a moment to register online HERE. There is a nominal fee of $15 which includes a commemorative T-shirt which may be picked up at the 9:00 A.M. check-in on May 19th. For more information and to register visit our web site: http://www.tourdechatham.org/
• Highland Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour 10:00 AM - 05:30 PM. Tour Highland Lighthouse, daily from 10am to 5:30pm, May 19 through mid October. Gift shop closes at 6pm. Admission is $4 per person, all ages. There is a 48 inch height requirement for all children. Highland Lighthouse in North Truro.
• Animal Story Time10:30AM at Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich. During the spring, fall and winter, drop by and join a naturalist for a lively story of "Peter Rabbit" and friends and visit with one of the resident animals. Suitable for families with children ages 2.5 and up. No advanced registration required. Free for members; Non-members $2 per person.
• Christine’s Yard Sale at 288 Cotuit Road, Sandwich—between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. If you are looking for great books, some wonderful glassware and some little pieces of furniture, I’ll be there with my brood, looking to rid ourselves of all the extra stuff we can’t take with us. You can talk to me about bigger items (furniture) we still have at my house if you’d like, too! For more information, call Christine at 617-823-5403.
• Pirate Festival 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM Pirate Festival: Pirate Parade at 1pm, Thieves Market from 9:00-3:00: Bring your Gold. Adults $4, Children $2, Family $10 - “Come dressed as a Pirate” $1 off each Pirate but you must stay for the “PIRATE Parade” at 1:00pm. Crafters & Vendors. Raffle Table. Live Auction. Pirate Kid Meals & Grill offerings Treasure Hunt & Pirate Games. Face Painting. Story Telling. “Walk the Plank.” Pirate “Kodak Moments” & Live Entertainment. Come Dressed for the Occasion! Call for information & to participate 508-759-6123.

Arrgh! Have some pirate fun in Bourne Saturday.

• HJT will hold auditions for JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday, May 19th and 20th at the HJT Arts Center, 265 Sisson Rd at Parallel St in Harwich Center. Many wonderful roles are available for ages 9 - Adult. Adapted from Raold Dahl's book and Directed by Emily Murray. A magical peach! A boy imprisoned by zany aunts! Insect friends! An incredible journey! This amazing adventure will fulfill the fantasy of anyone who has ever dreamed of escape. Performances will be held from June 29 -July 14, 2012. For more info call 508-432-2002 ext 12.
• Family Science Fun 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. FAMILY SCIENCE FUN at the Green Briar Nature Center, 6 Discovery Hill Road (off Route 6A), East Sandwich. Join the naturalist for on-going science explorations geared to families with children ages 4 to 12 years. Fee is $5 per person or a family maximum of $15.
• Cape Cod Symphony Youth Orchestra Concert 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. The Cape Cod Symphony Youth Orchestra will perform under the direction of conductor Joan Landry at 2pm at the Lund Auditorium at the Riverview School in East Sandwich. The public is invited to attend this free event for an inside look at this unique performance opportunity for young Cape Cod musicians. The youth orchestra program brings talented young musicians from across the Cape together to perform symphonic music under the direction of professional conductors, musicians and educators. Participating students are also exposed to workshops and master classes conducted by Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra musicians and guest artists. Lund Auditorium, Riverview School in East Sandwich.

Finally, on Sunday May 20, 2012

• Highland Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour 10:00 AM - 05:30 PM. Tour Highland Lighthouse, daily from 10am to 5:30pm, May 19 through mid October. Gift shop closes at 6pm. Admission is $4 per person, all ages. There is a 48 inch height requirement for all children. Highland Lighthouse in North Truro.
• Animal Story Time10:30AM at the at the Green Briar Nature Center, 6 Discovery Hill Road (off Route 6A), East Sandwich. Join the naturalist for a half-hour story featuring “Peter Rabbit” and other animal friends from the tales of Thornton W. Burgess. Visit with an animal featured in the day’s story. Suitable for families with children ages 3 and up. Fee is $2 per person. Advance registration is not required. 508-888-6870 at Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen in East Sandwich.
• Horseshoe Crab Spawning 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM Join Wellfleet Bay horseshoe crab researchers on a field trip to local beaches to learn about the sanctuary's research on horseshoe crabs and observe spawning horseshoe crabs at high tide. Learn about their behavior, biology, conservation, and management. Children ages 10 and older welcome. At Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in South Wellfleet.
• HJT will hold auditions for JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday, May 19th and 20th at the HJT Arts Center, 265 Sisson Rd at Parallel St in Harwich Center. Many wonderful roles are available for ages 9 - Adult. Adapted from Raold Dahl's book and Directed by Emily Murray. A magical peach! A boy imprisoned by zany aunts! Insect friends! An incredible journey! This amazing adventure will fulfill the fantasy of anyone who has ever dreamed of escape. Performances will be held from June 29 -July 14, 2012. For more info call 508-432-2002 ext 12.
• Nauset Lighthouse Tour 1:00PM - 4:00PM. Tour the Nauset Lighthouse in North Eastham.
• Free Camp day at Camp Favorite 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Are you on the fence about camp? Why not spend the day doing fun camp activities on Sunday, May 20th from 1:00p.m. – 4:00p.m. This free event invites you to bring the family and spend the day boating, having s’mores by the camp fire and doing a fun craft. Camp Favorite, our premier sailing and water sports camp, has both day and resident camp options, all girls are invited to attend camp. Camp Favorite is located at 208 Crowell’s Bog Road, Brewster, MA 02631. For more information visit www.hercamp.org or call 617-350-8335 or email at camp@girlscoutseasternmass.org. At Camp Favorite in Brewster.
• Sunday Student Soiree 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. FREE! Four local arts organizations have united to create the series of free monthly concerts featuring talented music students from across the Cape. The Sunday Student Soiree's feature beginner through advanced music students including well-known budding musicians Cotuit Center for the Arts.
• "The Early Years at Plimoth Plantation" with Vicki Oman 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present The Early Years at Plimoth Plantation with Vicki Oman, Museum Teacher at Plimoth Plantation. What was it like to live here after the Mayflower departed for England? Travel back in time to discover the hardships and triumphs of the first few years in Plymouth with someone who was there! Spend time with Mayflower passenger Goodwife Elizabeth Hopkins (Vicki Oman in costume) as she reflects upon the first seven years of settlement in New England. Enjoy this special “trip” and compelling narrative as Vicki Oman brings to life a woman’s personal experience of this historic period.

Enjoy the weekend, everyone!

Christine Chapman is the mother of two children: Celia is 5-years-old and Henry is one. She is a type 2 diabetic determined to become a healthy role model to her children. Christine was born and raised in Montreal, and has resided in Seoul, South Korea, Vancouver, Canada and in Boston, MA. She is an alumna of the Sacred Heart School of Montreal, Skidmore College and is in pursuit of her master's degree at Harvard University.   She enjoys reading, writing, walking, regular gym visits, pilates, and is grateful for the opportunity to work out of her home--she runs her own business, Chapman Educational Services, from her South Plymouth home--so that she can be active in the lives of her young children while pursuing a career positively impacting schools, students and families for which she feels great passion and gratitude.

Happy May Everyone! I am so excited about summer approaching and with the coming of summer is the promise of so many fun and exciting things to do on Cape Cod for the whole family!

The Cape Cod Kidz What to do on the Weekend Guide by Christine ChapmanOn Friday, May 4 2012:

• A Baby Center's Annual Diaper Drive continues at BJ's Wholesale Club in Hyannis. ALL DAY! The Barnstable Sunrise Rotary Club with help from the Rotary Club of Cape Cod Community College is kicking off A Baby Center’s Annual Diaper Drive. BJ’s will collect un-opened packages of diapers for A Baby Center from April 28 through May 5, and will “match” each donated package with another package of diapers. Members and non-members may donate much needed items including critically needed size 4, 5 and 6 diapers. A Baby Center (ABC) provides critical basic items like diapers and clothing for in-need infants and toddlers up to the age of three who live on Cape Cod and the Islands.

• Toddler Time 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM at Cape Cod Children’s Museum in Mashpee. Toddler Time. Early Childhood Educator "Miss Mary" leads this popular class that provides a great socialization opportunity for up to 12 children, ages 18 months to 3 years old and their caregivers. Spring session runs through May 7. Pre-registration is required.

• Music and Movement Playgroup 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Music and Movement Playgroup for ages 2 ½ – 5 years. Please register with the Coalition for Children.
  Contact: Tina Toran 508-548-0151 ext. 172 or ttoran@falmouth.k12.ma.us in the Children’s Program Room at Falmouth Public Library in Falmouth.

• "Wild" Drop-In Preschool Storytime 10:00 AM. New! 'WILD' DROP-IN PRESCHOOL STORYTIME ~ Thursdays at 1:00 pm on May 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th. Fridays at 10:00 am on May 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th. For preschool aged children and their siblings to listen to stories and hands-on exploration of "wild" Cape Cod ponds, woods, marshes and sea! At the Sandwich Public Library in Sandwich.

• Generations! Music & Movement 10:30 AM. Generations! - May 4th at 10:30 AM at the Congregational Church. Intergenerational music, movement, fun, and laughter with World Musician, Denya LeVine. For children up to age five, along with a caregiver. Fun-loving seniors 55+ are also invited! Congregational Church in Yarmouth Port.

• Critter Capers at Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich from 10:30AM – 11:00AMCritter Capers, Fridays at 10:30 AM, year-round. Drop in for a half-hour visit with a naturalist and one of the resident animals. Suitable for children ages 2.5 and up. Advanced registration is NOT required. Free to members; $2 per person for non-members.

• Baby Playgroup 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Baby Playgroup for ages birth – 14 months, please register with the Coalition for Children. Contact: Tina Toran 508-548-0151 ext. 172 or ttoran@falmouth.k12.ma.us in the Children’s Program Room at Falmouth Public Library in Falmouth.

• Spaghetti Supper 6:00 PM. $6.00 for adults, no charge for kids! Spaghetti and Meatballs, Garlic Bread, Tossed Salad, Dessert, Coffee, Tea, Milk. Please plan to attend and bring a friend! 6pm on the first Friday of every month at The Congregational Church of South Dennis in South Dennis.

• Family Fun Night 6:00PM to 8:30 PM. Games, music and activities. Moon bounce and face painting. Free admission. Food at concession: pizza, hotdogs, drinks, ice cream and candy.  Raffle. All welcome, you don't have to be a member to attend. Call 508-477-8845 for more information or visit: www.BoysGirlsClubCapeCod.org. Boys & Girls Club of Cape Cod located behind the Mashpee Police and Fire Stations.
• Sea Turtle Talk 6:00 PM. Presented by Bourne Community Boating. Bring the family and meet Henry Milliken, Research Fisheries Biologist at NOAA Fisheries in Woods Hole. We will learn how he and other scientists are working to develop better commercial fishing gear that will reduce the accidental catch of protected species like sea turtles. Mr. Milliken’s talk will include movies, pictures and a taxidermy turtle to touch. Admission is Free, Donations Accepted. All donations to support Bourne Community Boating. At the Canal Club, downstairs at the Trowbridge Tavern, off the Bourne Rotary, 100 Trowbridge Rd, Bourne.

• Falcon Theater Company presents "Seussical Jr." 7:30 PM at Forestdale School in Forestdale. Falcon Theater Company brings to life all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters in this whimsical musical performed by some very talented middle school students. All tickets $5 will be sold at the door starting at 6:30pm. No advance ticket Sales.

On Saturday, May 5, 2012:

• Wellfleet Elementary School PTA Pancake Breafast 08:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Benefits students at Wellfleet Elementary School. Pancakes or eggs, choice of sausage or bacon, coffee or tea, orange juice. Adults $7, children $4. Harrigan's Cafe at the Wellfleet Lodge, 170 Route 6, South Wellfleet.

• Bird Banding with Sue Finnegan 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM. On Saturday, May 5 and Saturday, May 19 from 8:30-10 am the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present Bird Banding Demonstrations hosted by Sue Finnegan, Certified Master Bird Bander and Manager, Wing Island Bird Banding Station. Admission is $5.00. Here is an extraordinary opportunity to see a variety of live birds at close range and learn why banding is important. You may even be able to release a bird after banding. Meet at the front door of the Museum at 8:30 am. In case of rain, the program will be cancelled. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster.

• A Baby Center's Annual Diaper Drive continues at BJ's Wholesale Club in Hyannis.

• Animal Story Time10:30AM at Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich. During the spring, fall and winter, drop by and join a naturalist for a lively story of "Peter Rabbit" and friends and visit with one of the resident animals. Suitable for families with children ages 2.5 and up. No advanced registration required. Free for members; Non-members $2 per person.

• Family Science Fun from 1:00pm to 2:30pm Family Science Fun at the Green Briar Nature Center, 6 Discovery Hill Road (off Route 6A), East Sandwich. Join the naturalist for on-going science explorations geared to families with children ages 4 to 12 years. Fee is $5 per person or a family maximum of $15.

• Falcon Theater Company presents "Seussical Jr." again at 7:30PM at The Forestdale School in Forestdale.

Finally, on Sunday, May 6, 2012

• Animal Story Time10:30AM at the at the Green Briar Nature Center, 6 Discovery Hill Road (off Route 6A), East Sandwich. Join the naturalist for a half-hour story featuring “Peter Rabbit” and other animal friends from the tales of Thornton W. Burgess. Visit with an animal featured in the day’s story. Suitable for families with children ages 3 and up. Fee is $2 per person. Advance registration is not required. 508-888-6870 at Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen in East Sandwich.

Enjoy the weekend, everyone! May 5^th is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate: Cinquo de Mayo and in South Korea, it’s Children’s Day! Have a great weekend celebrating spring and our children!! Get out and enjoy the family, the outdoors, and the promise of summer!

Christine Chapman is the mother of two children: Celia is 5-years-old and Henry is one. She is a type 2 diabetic determined to become a healthy role model to her children. Christine was born and raised in Montreal, and has resided in Seoul, South Korea, Vancouver, Canada and in Boston, MA. She is an alumna of the Sacred Heart School of Montreal, Skidmore College and is in pursuit of her master's degree at Harvard University.   She enjoys reading, writing, walking, regular gym visits, pilates, and is grateful for the opportunity to work out of her home--she runs her own business, Chapman Educational Services, from her South Plymouth home--so that she can be active in the lives of her young children while pursuing a career positively impacting schools, students and families for which she feels great passion and gratitude.

Here’s hoping everyone had a wonderful Easter. I know that my little ones loved starting the day with an Easter egg hunt and gorging themselves on candy. I spent most of the day feeling guilty for letting my kids consume so much candy but hey—Easter only happens once a year! The challenge is staying away from all the left-over candy!!!

The Cape Cod Kidz What to do on the Weekend Guide by Christine Chapman

What with April vacation coming up next week, I thought I would just start with the weekend picks for the end of the week and I will have an April vacation events post to follow shortly. Here’s hoping you get to spend some time enjoying all that Cape Cod has to offer this weekend as it’s starting to get busy down here again with summer approaching!

• Critter Capers is a consistently reliable good time for kids. Head out to Green Briar Nature Center with your little ones to be part of the fun at 10:30 AM. Drop in for a half-hour visit with the naturalist and one of the nature center’s resident animals. Suitable for families with children ages 3 and up. Fee is $2 per person. Advance registration is not required. Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen in East Sandwich.

• Toddler Time Early Childhood Educator "Miss Mary" leads this popular class that provides a great socialization opportunity for up to 12 children, ages 18 months to 3 years old and their caregivers. Spring session runs through May 7. Pre-registration is required. Cape Cod Children's Museum in Mashpee from 9am to 10:30 AM.

• Rock Night (Grades 4-7) 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Enjoy an opportunity for your children in grades 4-7 to get together at The Hyannis Community Center for an evening of skating to rock music! Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis.

• HJT presents "Babe, the Sheep Pig" 7:30 PM. BABE, THE SHEEP PIG - April 6 - April 22 with school vacation week performances! Play by David Wood. Adapted from the book, The Sheep-Pig by Dick King-Smith. Friday eves at 7:30 PM Saturdays and Sundays at 2 PM. Special April Vacation performances on Monday – Friday April 16, 17,18, 19 on 20 at 2 PM Deep down, Babe just knows he’s a champion. An epic tale of a little pig, with magical transformations that bring every quirky character from the beloved story to life! Tickets; $22 Adult and $15 youth under 21. Harwich Junior Theatre in Harwich.

On Saturday, April 14, 2012:

• The Hobo Express (Fall River) Departs State Pier, Fall River. April 14 – 19 (Saturday through Thursday. 9:45 AM – 10:45 AM $14 ages 3 and up. Take The Hobo Express to “Hunt the Rats” at Battleship Cove, and make this April school break a memorable one for the whole family! Board the train at the State Pier in Fall River for an hour-long, roundtrip ride along the Taunton River – on rails that have been inaccessible to passengers since the 1950’s! Experience the thrill as the whistle blows, smell the ocean air breeze through your window, and relax while our “hobos” provide entertainment for the kids. When you’re done, cross the street to Battleship Cove to enjoy discounted admission to the park featuring the amazing Pearl Harbor Experience and the popular “Hunt the Rats” scavenger hunt for kids. The Fall River Carousel will also be open Monday – Friday. For more information or to buy tickets for the Hobo Express, please visit www.capetrain.com or call 508-771-3800. Tickets will also be available at the State Pier before each departure.

• Discovery Center Birthday Party from 10 AM to 11 AM. Celebrating the 14th birthday of the Discovery Center. Part of Sandwich Reads Together! Focus on Favorites, guest readers will be reading their favorite books, the ones that you and your child read over and over. Cake and ice cream. Sandwich Public Library.

Fun at the National Marine Life Center. Photo courtesy nmlc.org.

• Spring Splash Open House 10:00 AM to 2 PM. Join us for our Spring Open House! Explore the Discovery Center, make marine animal arts and crafts, enjoy games and refreshments. Meet Catch-22, Bruce, Vesuvius, and Pierce, Sir Isaac Newton, and our eight hatchlings. Tour our new marine animal hospital.
  National Marine Life Center in Buzzards Bay.

• Awesome Ospreys 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Discover how this beautiful raptor, sometimes known as the sea hawk, breeds and hunts. We'll look at artifacts in our nature center and then travel to Lieutenant Island to view nesting ospreys through our scope. Transportation from the sanctuary provided. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in Wellfleet.

• Animal Story Time 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM. Drop by and join a naturalist for a lively story of "Peter Rabbit" and friends and a visit with one of the animals featured in the day's story. Suitable for families with children ages 3 and up. Advance registration is not required. It’s a favorite for all young children. At The Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich.

• Parade with Therapy Dogs 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Bring your children with their unique Easter Bonnet or Hat, and join in the Easter parade with the therapy dogs! One child will be given a special award for the Most Unique Easter Hat! After the parade, the children and dogs will interact by playing Choose the Correct Chicken Egg! Can your child pick the right egg or will the dog win? Come for a fun-filled hour teaching children to interact with dogs in a relaxing and educational venue!
  Liberty Hall (next door to MMPL) in Marstons Mills.

• HJT presents "Babe, the Sheep Pig" 2:00 PM again at Harwich Junior Theatre in Harwich.

• Public Skating is on again twice! From 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and then again from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at The Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis.

• Wings for Falmouth Families 2nd Annual Comedy Night 8:00 PM at Coonamessett Inn in Falmouth. Wings For Falmouth Families is thrilled to announce that Sound Financial Advisors, Janney Montgomery Scott is the sponsor of their 2nd Annual Comedy Night. The event will be on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at The Coonamessett Inn, Falmouth, MA. The headliner for the evening is nationally renowned comedian and Best of Boston award winner Paul D'Angelo who co-stars in Showtime’s “Godfathers of Comedy”. Opening for Mr. D’Angelo is Boston's rising star comedian Sal Votano. The evening's Master Of Ceremonies is our own Falmouth Police Chief Anthony Riello. Individual tickets are $40.00; to order individual tickets or reserved tables of 8 or 10 guests, please visit www.WinsgForFalmouth.org. Questions regarding tickets and reservations, please call Russ Pelletier at 508-274-4703. Monies raised from this event will support the mission of Wings for Falmouth Families which provides local families with school age children financial assistance when they are experiencing a medical crisis or tragic event. Visit www.WingsForFalmouth.org for aid application, secure online donations, upcoming events and news. Wings for Falmouth Families is a community-based, 501(c) 3 established in 2003 by Lisa and Eric Asendorf. While medical costs may be covered by insurance, spousal loss of work, childcare and housing expenses, to name a few, add up to an enormous burden. Wings for Falmouth Families has helped dozens of Families and donated over $80,000 to date.

Finally, on Sunday, April 15, 2012

• 3rd Annual Wing Fling from 12 PM to 4 PM. Chicken wing competition between local restaurants and amateur chefs to benefit the Michael Fernandes Foundation for Bone Marrow Disorders. Taste the wings and vote for your favorite, who will win the title of Wing King. Music by Dick Fiscus. Raffle, silent auction, face painting & fun! The Beach House Restaurant, North Falmouth.

• The Hobo Express (Fall River) will be a special treat all through April vacation week. Boards at the State Pier in Fall River.

• Free Brigadeiro Barn Workshop from 1 PM to 2:30 PM. Presented by Grasiela. Featuring handmade Brazilian truffles. Children will be able to decorate and sample our brigadeiros (Brazilian truffles). Fun and delicious. While supplies last.
  Grasiela will also have gift products available for parents to purchase and will take orders for birthday parties and Mother's Day. Cape Cod Children's Museum in Mashpee.

• HJT presents "Babe, the Sheep Pig" at 2:00 PM at the Harwich Junior Theatre in Harwich.

• Public Skating is always a treat at Hyannis Community Center from 2:00 PM - 04:00 PM .

• Parent/Child Stick 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Here’s another way to have fun with your family on the rink! Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis.

Here's wishing you a great weekend! Happy Spring!

Christine Chapman is the mother of two children: Celia is 5-years-old and Henry is one. She is a type 2 diabetic determined to become a healthy role model to her children. Christine was born and raised in Montreal, and has resided in Seoul, South Korea, Vancouver, Canada and in Boston, MA. She is an alumna of the Sacred Heart School of Montreal, Skidmore College and is in pursuit of her master's degree at Harvard University.   She enjoys reading, writing, walking, regular gym visits, pilates, and is grateful for the opportunity to work out of her home--she runs her own business, Chapman Educational Services, from her South Plymouth home--so that she can be active in the lives of her young children while pursuing a career positively impacting schools, students and families for which she feels great passion and gratitude.

I love spring—it’s just such a hopeful time of the year here in New England. The temperature has been a bit of a mixed bag, but today, it was just gorgeous—water gleaming on the canal as I crossed the Sagamore Bridge. Just gorgeous. It makes me feel so grateful to have lived with Cape Cod a real, integral part of their early years. We are lucky to live in such a beautiful place.

This weekend is both Passover and Easter. In both cases, there is a promise that signals renewals, new life. For me, it always feels like a time of change, of fresh starts and new adventures. Spring is full of that promise—in the bushes and trees budding again, and in soft pastels and vibrant splashes of color in the drawings of children depicting Easter eggs and bunnies and sweet treats! 

The Cape Cod Kidz What to do on the Weekend Guide by Christine Chapman

We’ve got some weekend-long fun for you!:

• My Impressions of Impressionism: Art by Students from Mattacheese Middle School  In the Board Room through April 8.  Gallery Hours are M-F, 9-5, Sat 11-5, Sun 12-5 and by chance. Cultural Center of Cape Cod  in S. Yarmouth;  Friday-Sunday
• HJT presents "Babe, the Sheep Pig" 7:30 PM Harwich Junior Theatre (Harwich).  Friday at 7:30 and Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. BABE, THE SHEEP PIG - April 6 - April 22 with school vacation week performances! Play by David Wood. Adapted from the book, The Sheep-Pig by Dick King-Smith. Friday eves at 7:30PM Saturdays and Sundays at 2 PM. Special April Vacation performances on Monday – Friday April 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 at 2PM. Deep down, Babe just knows he’s a champion. An epic tale of a little pig, with magical transformations that bring every quirky character from the beloved story to life! Tickets; $22 Adult and $15 youth under 21.
• “Hop” into Easter! 10:00 AM - 08:00 PM on Friday and Saturday. Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis. Cape Cod Mall invites Hyannis area kids and parents to attend a family-friendly Easter Photo Experience event. Kids will have the chance to visit with the Easter Bunny and get ready for the Blu-ray DVD release of HOP from Universal Studios on March 23, the all-new comedy about candy, chicks and rock ‘n’ roll! Visit Facebook.com/CapeCodMall for more details! Monday – Saturday 10am – 8pm, Sunday 12pm – 6pm

Here’s wishing you all a great weekend. There is so much to do on Cape Cod, and I’m sure you’ll find that your little ones have plenty of stimulation and fun ahead!

For Friday April 6, 2012:

• Toddler Time 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Early Childhood Educator "Miss Mary" leads this popular class that provides a great socialization opportunity for up to 12 children, ages 18 months to 3 years old and their caregivers. Spring session runs through May 7. Pre-registration is required.

• Stroller Skating 9:30AM - 10:30AM. Stroller skating.  Tickets available at the skate sharpening and rental booth. Admission: Adults (18+): $7. Students (17 and under): $5. Seniors (62+): $2. Rentals: $5. Hyannis Youth & Community Center  in Hyannis.

• Public Skating 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM. Tickets available at the skate sharpening and rental booth. Admission: Adults (18+): $7. Students (17 and under): $5. Seniors (62+): $2. Rentals: $5. Hyannis Youth & Community Center  in Hyannis.
• Critter Capers 10:30 AM Get out to Green Briar Nature Center for a half-hour visit with the naturalist and one of the nature center’s resident animals. Suitable for families with children ages 3 and up. Fee is $2 per person. Advance registration is not required. Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen in East Sandwich.
• Spaghetti Supper 6:00 PM. $6.00 for adults, no charge for kids! Spaghetti and Meatballs, Garlic Bread, Tossed Salad, Dessert, Coffee, Tea, Milk. Please plan to attend and bring a friend! 6pm on the first Friday of every month. At The Congregational Church of South Dennis in South Dennis.
• Rock Night (Grades 1-3) 7:00 PM. Rock night, grades 1-3, 7pm to 9pm. Tickets available at the skate sharpening and rental booth. Admission: $5. Rentals: $5. Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis.

On Saturday April 7, 2012:

• Easter Eggs-press Train Ride and Egg Hunt 09:30 AM - 01:00 PM. Departs Hyannis 9:30 am, returns 1:00 pm; Departs Sandwich 10:15 am, returns at 12:40 pm. Celebrate the return of spring with a fun outing for the whole family! Board the train in Hyannis (or Sandwich) for an hour-long scenic excursion over the Cape Cod Canal -- traveling a mere seven feet above the water on the Cape’s unique horizontal-lift train bridge -- into Buzzard’s Bay. The Easter Bunny will be waiting to greet you on the big lawn alongside the canal where you’ll enjoy an egg hunt and other games. You’ll also have time to share a picnic (available for purchase on board the train) or just take in the views before returning to Hyannis. Don’t forget to bring an empty Easter basket to fill. Cape Cod Central Railroad in Hyannis.
• Dennis & Yarmouth Recreation Easter Egg Hunt 10:00 AM.  The Easter Bunny only has a certain amount of eggs so come early. We ask that each child only collect 10 eggs. For all children 10 and under**There will be a separate hunt for preschoolers. Bring a basket to collect your eggs.
  The Easter Bunny will be available for pictures. Please bring your camera to take a memorable picture for your scrapbook. We ask that parents not collect eggs. Johnny Kelley Park  in South Dennis.
• Annual Easter Egg Hunt Bring the kids to our Annual Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by Mashpee Commons and 106 WCOD. It's sure to be an egg-cellent event with over 1500 eggs to find, filled with candies and prizes! Little ones, ages 0-4, get a head start at 10:20, Kids ages 5-7 at 10:45, Big Kids ages 8-10 at 11:00. Three lucky eggs in each round, will contain a Mashpee Commons Gift Card. Spin WCOD's lucky wheel for your chance to win great prizes. 10am to 12pm. Mashpee Commons  in Mashpee.
• Family Whale Walk Saturday, April 7 from 10am to 12pm. Endangered right whales stop over in Cape Cod Bay each spring to feed in the zooplankton-rich waters. Join us at Herring Cove and Race Point beaches in Provincetown for a chance to observe right whales from shore. We'll bring whale bones and other artifacts to help us learn about whale evolution and conservation. Directions provided upon registration. Herring Cove and Race Point beaches  in Provincetown.
• Animal Story Time 10:30 AM.  During the spring, fall and winter, drop by and join a naturalist for a lively story of "Peter Rabbit" and friends and visit with one of the resident animals. Suitable for families with children ages 2.5 and up. No advanced registration required. Free for members; Non-members $2 per person. Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich.
• Annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Sea Call Farm in Orleans, MA at 1:00 PM.  Bring your own basket or container.
• Audubon Children's Program - Seals!  2:00PM. The Brewster Ladies’ Library will be holding a Massachusetts Audubon Society program about seals on Saturday, April 7. Presented by the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, this program invites children and families to learn about seals through role play and games. Brewster Ladies' Library in Brewster.  This sounds like a really great experience.
• Public Skating 2:00PM - 4:00PM Tickets available at the skate sharpening and rental booth.
  Admission: Adults (18+): $7. Students (17 and under): $5. Seniors (62+): $2. Rentals: $5. Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis.
• Ice! Camera! Action! Learn to Skate Annual Figure Skating Show 06:30 PM Saturday, April 7 at 6:30pm. A celebration of the movies. Free admission. Donations are gratefully accepted and will help to fund our year-round US Figure Skating Learn to Skate Program. FEATURE PROGRAMS. Come and See What We’ve Been Working So Hard For All Year! Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis. Bring your aspiring ice skaters and get them excited about what they can achieve in our Learn to Skate program and beyond.

Sunday April 8, 2012:

• Gourmet Easter Dinner Train Gourmet Easter Dinner Train. Sunday, April 8 from 1-4 pm. Join us for a unique and memorable Easter Dinner. Relax in style as Cape Cod whirls past you, bursting with spring colors and smells. Enjoy a delicious five-course gourmet dinner, expertly served on crisp white linens and freshly prepared on board by our award-wining chef, Rich Davis. Board the train in Hyannis and leave the work to him this holiday – have an adventure instead! For more information or to buy tickets, please visit www.capetrain.com or call 508-771-3800.
  Cape Cod Central Railroad in Hyannis. This sounds awesome!!! I may have to see if this might be an Easter option for my family.

Have a great weekend! Here’s wishing you an Easter that is fun, filled with togetherness and joy.

Christine Chapman is the mother of two children: Celia is 5-years-old and Henry is one. She is a type 2 diabetic determined to become a healthy role model to her children. Christine was born and raised in Montreal, and has resided in Seoul, South Korea, Vancouver, Canada and in Boston, MA. She is an alumna of the Sacred Heart School of Montreal, Skidmore College and is in pursuit of her master's degree at Harvard University.   She enjoys reading, writing, walking, regular gym visits, pilates, and is grateful for the opportunity to work out of her home--she runs her own business, Chapman Educational Services, from her South Plymouth home--so that she can be active in the lives of her young children while pursuing a career positively impacting schools, students and families for which she feels great passion and gratitude.

What incredible spring weather we have had! Oh happy spring!!! Enjoy time outside with the kids before we get more cold in our lives. A spring teaser is what this week has been!!! I wish it would last longer but I am certainly not complaining!

The Cape Cod Kidz What to do on the Weekend Guide by Christine Chapman

On Friday March 23, 2012:

• Cape Cod Mall & Universal Studios Home Entertainment Invite Families to “Hop” into Easter!10:00 AM- 08:00 PM The Cape Cod Mall invites Hyannis area kids and parents to attend a family-friendly Easter Photo Experience event, from Friday, March 23 - Saturday, April 7. Kids will have the chance to visit with the Easter Bunny and get ready for the Blu-ray DVD release of HOP from Universal Studios on March 23, the all-new comedy about candy, chicks and rock ‘n’ roll! Visit Facebook.com/CapeCodMall for more details! At the Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis.

• Critter Capers is a consistently reliable good time for kids. Head out to Green Briar Nature Center with your little ones to be part of the fun at 10:30 AM. Drop in for a half-hour visit with the naturalist and one of the nature center’s resident animals. Suitable for families with children ages 3 and up. Fee is $2 per person. Advance registration is not required. Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen in East Sandwich.

• Toddler Town is offered from 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Stories and crafts at 10:30am, followed by playtime in the indoor gym. Wellfleet Public Library in Wellfleet.

• Kids' Night Out! Will be from 5:00 PM- 8:00 PM at Willy's Gym in Eastham. For students aged 5 to 12. Parents, leave the kids with us and go enjoy a night out! Rock Climbing and Swimming; dinner on-site from Subway.

Photos with the Easter Bunny. Courtesy Cape Cod Mall.

• Tools of the Trade fundraiser from 6:30 PM- 9:30 PM at The Chatham Wayside Inn in Chatham. Tools of the Trade is a great night out to benefit local families of Monomoy Community Services. Monomoy is a 501C3 non-profit organization. The evening includes auction and raffle prizes that focus on home and self-improvement. Auction prizes include: Mudroom Built-ins, Gardener's potting table and accessories, Red Sox Getaway including tickets for four, accommodations, transportation and more. Raffle prizes and silent auction items include home improvement items, restaurant certificates, Disney tickets, Boston Bruins autographed items, etc. Cash bar, appetizers, $1.00 drafts.

 On Saturday, March 24, 2012:

• Last year, I wrote an article about this upcoming awesome consignment event right here on CapeCodKidz! I hope you’ll access it because it’s truly an amazing event. Children's Consignment Sale Event 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Centerville. Cape Kids' Treasures 4th semi-annual sale! SHOP for bargains! THOUSANDS of new/gently used kids' items available: Baby, kids (size 0-16) and maternity clothing; Toys, games, books; Sporting gear/equipment; Baby gear, nursery items and more! SELL your gently used kid's items and earn money for them! Consignors earn 60-75% of their sales! Consignors and Volunteers get a pass to our special VIP Pre-Sale! NEW MOMS Pre-Sale Event! For details and registration, visit www.CapeKidsTreasures.com. Don’t miss it! It’s an amazing event!

• Nature Tales10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Cozy up in the nature center at Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for a special story and color a picture to take home. You'll learn about the wildlife that thrives here on Cape Cod and throughout the world. Best for families with children up to age 8. Wellfeet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in Wellfleet.

• Live Animal Story Time 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM. Drop by and join a naturalist for a lively story of "Peter Rabbit" and friends and a visit with one of the animals featured in the day's story. Suitable for families with children ages 3 and up. Advance registration is not required. It’s a favorite for all young children. At The Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich.

• Cape Cod Mall & Universal Studios Home Entertainment Invite Families to “Hop” into Easter!10:00 AM- 08:00 PM The Cape Cod Mall invites Hyannis area kids and parents to attend a family-friendly Easter Photo Experience event, from Friday, March 23 - Saturday, April 7. Kids will have the chance to visit with the Easter Bunny and get ready for the Blu-ray DVD release of HOP from Universal Studios on March 23, the all-new comedy about candy, chicks and rock ‘n’ roll! Visit Facebook.com/CapeCodMall for more details! At the Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis.

Have fun as a family at Healthy Together!

• Healthy Together 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM. Healthy Together will be held at the Henry T. Wing School, Water Street in Sandwich. Come learn some great new ways to get healthy and stay healthy! The entire family will have a blast! Tips, demos, snacks, screenings, checks, games, activities and more. This FREE event is sponsored by Spaulding Rehab Hospital. For more information call 508-888-9525.

• Public Skate is always a fun time. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM at the Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis.

Finally, on Sunday, March 25, 2012…

• Cape Cod Mall & Universal Studios Home Entertainment Invite Families to “Hop” into Easter!10:00 AM- 8:00 PM. The Cape Cod Mall invites Hyannis area kids and parents to attend a family-friendly Easter Photo Experience event, from Friday, March 23 - Saturday, April 7. Kids will have the chance to visit with the Easter Bunny and get ready for the Blu-ray DVD release of HOP from Universal Studios on March 23, the all-new comedy about candy, chicks and rock ‘n’ roll! Visit Facebook.com/CapeCodMall for more details! At the Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis.

• For all you expectant mommies and daddies: from 1:30 PM- 4:30 PM to The Work of Birth Film Festival at Cape Cod Community College Science Lecture Hall A in West Barnstable. The Cape Cod Birth Collective will host its first event, “The Work of Birth” film festival to raise awareness about birth year support services & professional education opportunities on Cape Cod. Two documentary films will be shown—”Laboring Under an Illusion: Mass Media Childbirth vs. The Real Thing” and “Doula! The Ultimate Birth Companion.” In between films, a gathering of area birth professionals will serve on a panel to answer questions and discuss current issues & local services available. The event is organized by the Cape Cod Birth Collective, a newly formed group of local women committed to helping all Cape Cod mothers to have safe, empowering birth experiences.

Here’s wishing you a great weekend! Happy Spring!

Christine Chapman is the mother of two children: Celia is 5-years-old and Henry is one. She is a type 2 diabetic determined to become a healthy role model to her children. Christine was born and raised in Montreal, and has resided in Seoul, South Korea, Vancouver, Canada and in Boston, MA. She is an alumna of the Sacred Heart School of Montreal, Skidmore College and is in pursuit of her master's degree at Harvard University.   She enjoys reading, writing, walking, regular gym visits, pilates, and is grateful for the opportunity to work out of her home--she runs her own business, Chapman Educational Services, from her South Plymouth home--so that she can be active in the lives of her young children while pursuing a career positively impacting schools, students and families for which she feels great passion and gratitude.