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May Family Friendly Events for the Indy Area, 2016

May 1, 2016 by Mama Carmody Leave a Comment

May Family Friendly Events for the Indy Area, 2016



It’s time for the May Family Friendly Events. Do you know what May means to Indianapolis? It’s time for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” – The Indianapolis 500 Race! You will find several family friendly events, this month, related to the race but there are also many other activities as well. Remember to check back often because I will add things as I find them. I also love comments and conversations on here and on the Love to Laugh and Learn Facebook page.

 

May 14
Saturday

Shake, Rattle & Roll – for ages from the Womb to 36 Months
Shake, Rattle & Roll is for the little ones in your family. You are never too young (or too old) to get your groove on. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
$5.00 per child, $10 max per family (Parents are free)

Family Friendly Events: Peanut Butter & Jam Concert Series
Family Friendly Events: Peanut Butter & Jam Concert Series

Peanut Butter and Jam Saturday morning music series at the Palladium.
You and your child will be able to explore a multitude of musical genres. You will get to experience 30 minutes of music and then get 15 minutes to explore and play with the musical instruments. These performances are specially geared for children ages 1 to 7 years old. Today your child will enjoy Dragon and Dances of China. Music, colorful costumes, dances, and even a dragon will enchant the youngsters. Two adults get in free with the purchase of a child’s ticket. There is limited seating for these events. To purchase tickets, call the Box Office at 317-843-3800.
Palladium (in the Robert Adam’s room)
355 City Center Drive
Carmel, IN 46032
10:30 a.m.
$10 for child (2 adults get in free with each child’s ticket)

Family Drum Circle – Ages 3 to 8 years old
Children will explore rhythm making and rhythm making games. Older kids and parents play supportive rhythms while younger kids explore rhythm on various instruments. Parents must stay with their children and are encouraged to participate. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
$5.00 per child, $10 max per family (Parents are free)

Free crafts for kids every Saturday at the Lakeshore Learning Store. This Saturday your child will be able to make a fun pony craft. Lakeshore is an Educational Store that has wonderful toys and craft supplies for use at home or in the classroom.
1300 E. 86th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46240
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Free

Family Friendly Events: Ferris Wheel at Chase 500 Festival Kids' Day
Family Friendly Events: Ferris Wheel at Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day

Chase 500 Festival Kids Day
In celebration and anticipation of the Indianapolis 500 race, head downtown to enjoy Indiana’s largest free outdoor festival for kids. There will be so many great things to enjoy with your family. Have your child try their hand at racing remote-control cars or doing a race-themed craft. There will be games, face painting, rides and entertainment by Fifth Harmony. You won’t want to miss this fun filled day. If you have never attended be sure to check out my review of 2013’s event: Review: Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day.
Monument Circle, Downtown Indianapolis
Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Free

May 16
Monday

Free Community Drum Circle for Special Needs at Bongo Boy Music School
This event is open to families, music and recreational therapists & their clients, and organizations working with children and adults with special needs. It is a requirement that caregivers/therapists stay with their family members/clients and that the ratio stay at one caregiver to two family members/clients. This is so the instructors can more easily lead the group and keep things fun and moving. Drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO. So beat a path to Bongo Boys Music School, on Monday, for a drumming good time.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
6:45 – 7:30 p.m.
Free

May 19
Thursday

Free Community Drum Circle for the Whole Family
Sharing musical experiences, with the family, can be so much fun. Bongo Boys Music School (not just for boys) gives your family an opportunity to find the rhythm of the beat together, every Thursday evening. It’s a free community drum circle and all ages are welcome. No experience necessary. Drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.
Free

May 21
Saturday
Family Friendly Events: Drumming at Bongo Boy Music School
Family Friendly Events: Drumming at Bongo Boy Music School

Shake, Rattle & Roll – for ages from the Womb to 36 Months
Shake, Rattle & Roll is for the little ones in your family. You are never too young (or too old) to get your groove on. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
$5.00 per child, $10 max per family (Parents are free)

Move and Groove for Ages 3 – 5 yrs old
Move & Groove is a fun rhythm and movement program for kiddos ages 3-5. Children will get to discover their own rhythm while experimenting with different drums and other percussion instruments. Parents must stay with their children and are encouraged to participate. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
$5.00 per child, $10 max per family (Parents are free)

Family Drum Circle – Ages 3 to 8 years old
Children will explore rhythm making and rhythm making games. Older kids and parents play supportive rhythms while younger kids explore rhythm on various instruments. Parents must stay with their children and are encouraged to participate. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
$5.00 per child, $10 max per family (Parents are free)

Free crafts for kids every Saturday at the Lakeshore Learning Store. This Saturday your child will be able to make a fun Twist and Twirl Spinner. Lakeshore is an Educational Store that has wonderful toys and craft supplies for use at home or in the classroom.
1300 E. 86th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46240
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Free

May 23
Monday

Free Community Drum Circle for Special Needs at Bongo Boy Music School
This event is open to families, music and recreational therapists & their clients, and organizations working with children and adults with special needs. It is a requirement that caregivers/therapists stay with their family members/clients and that the ratio stay at one caregiver to two family members/clients. This is so the instructors can more easily lead the group and keep things fun and moving. Drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO. So beat a path to Bongo Boys Music School, on Monday, for a drumming good time.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
6:45 – 7:30 p.m.
Free

May 26
Thursday

Free Community Drum Circle for the Whole Family
Sharing musical experiences, with the family, can be so much fun. Bongo Boys Music School (not just for boys) gives your family an opportunity to find the rhythm of the beat together, every Thursday evening. It’s a free community drum circle and all ages are welcome. No experience necessary. Drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.
Free

May 28
Saturday

Shake, Rattle & Roll – for ages from the Womb to 36 Months
Shake, Rattle & Roll is for the little ones in your family. You are never too young (or too old) to get your groove on. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
$5.00 per child, $10 max per family (Parents are free)

Move and Groove for Ages 3 – 5 yrs old
Move & Groove is a fun rhythm and movement program for kiddos ages 3-5. Children will get to discover their own rhythm while experimenting with different drums and other percussion instruments. Parents must stay with their children and are encouraged to participate. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
$5.00 per child, $10 max per family (Parents are free)

Family Drum Circle – Ages 3 to 8 years old
Children will explore rhythm making and rhythm making games. Older kids and parents play supportive rhythms while younger kids explore rhythm on various instruments. Parents must stay with their children and are encouraged to participate. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
$5.00 per child, $10 max per family (Parents are free)

Free crafts for kids every Saturday at the Lakeshore Learning Store. This Saturday your child will be able to make a festive Memorial Day hat. Lakeshore is an Educational Store that has wonderful toys and craft supplies for use at home or in the classroom.
1300 E. 86th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46240
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Free

 

Filed Under: Attractions and Events Tagged With: family friendly, family friendly activities, family friendly events, Indianapolis Family Friendly Activities, Indianapolis Family Friendly Events, Indianapolis family fun, Indy Family Friendly Activities, Indy Family Friendly Events, May, May family activities, May family friendly activites, May family friendly events

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center Review

May 24, 2014 by Mama Carmody 4 Comments

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center Review

Disclaimer: I was given free admission to the Indianapolis Zoo and the Orangutan Center, for 3 guests and myself, however I was not influenced by the offer. All opinions and insights are my own.

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center is receiving nationwide media attention and is being called one of the most significant zoo exhibits anywhere in the world. The zoo’s website says, “An epic adventure awaits inside this incredible new exhibit, which offers an unparalleled experience for both guests and orangutans.” After our visit today, I must say, I agree.

In Preparation

I invited my friend and her two little boys (ages 4 ½ and 2 ½) to go with me. We did a couple of things in preparation for our trip. First of all, we visited the zoo’s special site called Azy and Friends. We were able to learn about each of the orangutans that reside in the Center. We learned their ages, where they lived before they came to Indianapolis, what their favorite foods are and a little about their personalities. You will find a fun little quiz on the site that will match you up with one of the orangutans. We took the quiz and then I made each of us a special t-shirt with the picture of our orangutan on it.

Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: Rockin' Our Orange
Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: Rockin’ Our Orange

I picked up some books, from the library. I gave Ashley one titled, “Orangutan (A Day in the Life: Rain Forest Animals)” by Anita Ganeri. She said the boys enjoyed it so much that she read it to them three different times. Now they have an idea of what an orangutan is and are ready for their trip to the zoo.

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center

The Center is a beautiful structure that appeals to the orangutans and humans as well. There are many areas for the orangutans to explore and interact with visitors…and interact, they do! Look at the smiles I got from this one.

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: All Smiles
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: All Smiles

When we arrived Rocky was exploring the Myrta Pulliam Hutan Trail. It is designed to represent the orangutans’ “highway” through the forest. The trail is a series of cables and bridges that allow the orangutans to travel 40 feet above the guests.

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center : TheHutan Trail
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center : TheHutan Trail

On his way back down Rocky enjoyed stopping and watching us as much as we enjoyed watching him.

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: Rocky
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: Rocky

Once inside the Center, we were able to look through large windows into the R.B. Annis Atrium. The orangutans can stay away from the windows to relax and hang out together or they can come up to the windows and interact with the visitors. They are so close you feel like you could just reach out and touch them. (And in some camera shots it looks like you just did.)

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center

From the Community Plaza, you can view the front of the building. The front  is covered with large glass windows, from which you have another angle to view the orangutans.  We stood out there for a long time while the boys interacted with one of the orangutans.

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: Interacting with the orangutans
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: Interacting with the orangutans

One aspect of the Center, that we didn’t get to experience, is the Skyline. The Skyline is an aerial ride that travels around the outer edge of the exhibit. Visitors get an excellent view of the Hutan Trail as well as a gorgeous view of downtown. I’m looking forward to experiencing this.

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: The Skyline
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center: The Skyline

I can all ready tell that this is going to be one of my favorite exhibits at the zoo. I have a feeling that it’s going to be popular with many people. If you are a member, you have the opportunity of beating the crowds by accessing the Center an hour before the zoo opens. This exclusive benefit is available on Saturdays and Sundays. from May 24-Sept. 1, at 8:00 a.m.. Who knows, maybe I will see you there.

The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center

Filed Under: Reviews Tagged With: educational activities, family friendly, family friendly activities, family friendly events, fun learning, Indianapolis, Indianapolis Family Friendly Activities, Indianapolis Family Friendly Events, Indianapolis Zoo, learning opportunities, orangutan center, orangutans, Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center, Zoo

October Family Friendly Events 2015

October 1, 2015 by Mama Carmody Leave a Comment

October Family Friendly Events 2015

Here come the October Family Friendly Events 2015. October is my birth month and it’s also my blog’s birth month. My blog is celebrating it’s fourth year….me?….well, I’m a little older. Thanks to everyone that follows me. I hope that I am giving you some of the help you are looking for while enjoying the children in your life.

Fall has arrived and, with it, many autumn activities; apple picking, choosing a pumpkin, jumping in leaves and so much more. Below are listed the activities I have found, for the Indianapolis area, for you to enjoy with your family. Be sure to check back often because I will add things as I find them. Follow Love to Laugh and Learn on Facebook for reminders and please feel free to leave comments and suggestions of things you would like to see me cover.

I’ve listed several of the orchards and pumpkin patches that I am aware of for our area. Just click on the name of the orchard or pumpkin patch and it will take you to their site to learn more about their activities for this month. If you aren’t from the Indianapolis area, please leave a comment about the pumpkin patch or orchard that you enjoy visiting during the fall. And if you are from the Indianapolis area and you realize I have missed a special place please let me know.

October Family Friendly Events 2015
October Family Friendly Events 2015

Fun Places to Go in October:

Beasley’s Orchard & Gardens  Danville, IN
Kelsey Farms  Whiteland, IN
Lark Ranch  Greenfield, IN
Piney Acres  Fortville, IN
Smith Family Farms  Pendleton, IN
Stony Creek Farm  Noblesville, IN
Stuckey’s Farm Market  Sheridan, IN
Tuttle Orchards Greenfield, IN
Waterman’s Family Farm  2 locations: Indianapolis & Greenwood, IN

More Fun Things to Do:

 

October 29
Thursday

Indianapolis Children’s Museum’s Pirate’s Revenge Haunted House
IPL’s Lights On Hours
Recommended for children who scare easily.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N Meridian St
Indianapolis, IN 46208
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Indianapolis Children’s Museum’s Pirate’s Revenge Haunted House
Defender Direct’s Frightening Hours
Recommended for children who dare to be scared
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N Meridian St
Indianapolis, IN 46208
3:30 – 8:30 p.m.

October Family Friendly Events 2015: Bongo Boy Music School
October Family Friendly Events 2015: Bongo Boy Music School

Free Community Drum Circle for the Whole Family
Sharing musical experiences, with the family, can be so much fun. Bongo Boys Music School (not just for boys) gives your family an opportunity to find the rhythm of the beat together, every Thursday evening. It’s a free community drum circle and all ages are welcome. No experience necessary. Drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.
Free

October 30
Friday

It’s time to enjoy Snow White at Beef and Boards. Are you ready to introduce your child to the wonderful world of live drama? Beef and Boards has an awesome children’s program. The classic fairy tale of a princess that is poisoned and falls into a deep sleep, until her Prince Charming awakens her with a kiss. The show is one hour long with no intermission. A drink and snack are included with your admission.
Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre
9301 Michigan Road
Indianapolis, IN 46268
Showtimes: 10:00 a.m. (doors open 30 minutes prior to show)
$15.50 per person

Indianapolis Children’s Museum’s Pirate’s Revenge Haunted House
IPL’s Lights On Hours
Recommended for children who scare easily.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N Meridian St
Indianapolis, IN 46208
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Indianapolis Children’s Museum’s Pirate’s Revenge Haunted House
EMC2 Xtreme Scream
This is not for the faint of heart. Only the super brave should attempt this feat.
Youth under age 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N Meridian St
Indianapolis, IN 46208
8:30 – 11:00 p.m.

October 31
Saturday
October Family Friendly Events 2015: Bongo Boy Music School
October Family Friendly Events 2015: Bongo Boy Music School

Kid’s Rhythm Club – Shake, Rattle & Roll – for ages from the Womb to 36 Months
Bongo Boys Music School has added a new event! Shake, Rattle & Roll for the little ones in your family. You are never too young (or too old) to get your groove on. All materials, instruments & drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
9:30 a.m. – 10:10 a.m.
$5.00 per child (Parents are free)

Kid’s Rhythm Club – “Jam as a Fam” for Ages 3 – 8 yrs old
Do your children love beating on pots and pans?…using your end table as a drum? Check out the Kid’s Rhythm Club at Bongo Boy Music School every Saturday. Children will explore rhythm making and rhythm making games. Recommended ages are for kids 3-12 but all ages are welcome. Older kids and parents play supportive rhythms while younger kids explore rhythm on various instruments. Parents must stay with their children and are encouraged to participate.
Bongo Boy Music School
8481 Bash St. Suite 1100
Indianapolis, IN 46250
(Located in the Castleton Area about .3 miles north of 82nd street on Bash St.)
10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
$5.00 per child (Parents are free)

It’s time to enjoy Snow White at Beef and Boards. Are you ready to introduce your child to the wonderful world of live drama? Beef and Boards has an awesome children’s program. The classic fairy tale of a princess that is poisoned and falls into a deep sleep, until her Prince Charming awakens her with a kiss. The show is one hour long with no intermission. A drink and snack are included with your admission.
Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre
9301 Michigan Road
Indianapolis, IN 46268
Showtimes: 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (doors open 30 minutes prior to show)
$15.50 per person

Indianapolis Children’s Museum’s Pirate’s Revenge Haunted House
IPL’s Lights On Hours
Recommended for children who scare easily.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N Meridian St
Indianapolis, IN 46208
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

October Family Friendly Events 2015: Peanut Butter & Jam Concert Series
October Family Friendly Events 2015: Peanut Butter & Jam Concert Series

Peanut Butter and Jam Saturday morning music series at the Palladium.
You and your child will be able to explore a multitude of musical genres. You will get to experience 30 minutes of music and then get 15 minutes to explore and play with the musical instruments. These performances are specially geared for children ages 1 to 7 years old. Today your child will have some Halloween fun with Ruditoonz. Dress the kids in their Halloween costumes and come expecting a spooktacular time. We’ve had the pleasure of singing and dancing with Ruditoonz at a couple of events this past summer. Come and experience the fun yourself. Two adults get in free with the purchase of a child’s ticket. There is limited seating for these events. To purchase tickets, call the Box Office at 317-843-3800.
Palladium (in the Robert Adam’s room)
355 City Center Drive
Carmel, IN 46032
10:30 a.m.
$10 for child (2 adults get in free with each child’s ticket)

Free crafts for kids every Saturday at the Lakeshore Learning Store. This Saturday your child will be able to make a spooky spiderweb. Lakeshore is an Educational Store that has wonderful toys and craft supplies for use at home or in the classroom.
1300 E. 86th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46240
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Free

Visit Peewinkles Puppet Studio for a little Halloween fun. Let Witch Gertrude introduce you to her ghoulish friends on strings. Lots of laughs for the whole family.
Peewinkles Puppet Studio
25 E. Henry Street
Indianapolis, IN 46225
Tickets: $12, Under two, free.
Optional post show workshop $3 (purchase in studio after show)
6:30 p.m.

Related Posts

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie, Review
The Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie, Review
Love to Laugh and Learn at the Apple Orchard

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Filed Under: Attractions and Events Tagged With: apple orchard, family friendly activities, family friendly events, Indianapolis, Indianapolis Family Friendly Activities, Indianapolis Family Friendly Events, October, October activities, October events, October family friendly activities, October family friendly events, pumpkin patch

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