Fun Free or Inexpensive Things to do Around Central Ohio: Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center

Do you have a son who is wild about fire trucks?  Does he want to dress like a fireman every Halloween?  Does he point out a firehouse every time you pass one?  If so then you should visit the Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center .

The Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center is housed in an old fire station in downtown Columbus.  As the name implies there is a museum.  It is pretty neat, although not hands on.  The museum portion has exhibits of old fire engines, hook and ladder trucks, fire alarm boxes, and all sorts of equipment used by fire fighters for the past 150 yrs or so.

There is also a learning area where children learn about fire safety.  If you schedule a tour your group can have one of these presentations.  They are divided into two categories: Preschool and School Age. 

Preschoolers learn the differences between "tools" and "toys."  The fire fighter explains that "tools" are used by adults and includs things such as knives, hammers, and matches.  He also explains that "toys" are for children.  Examples of both are used and the children have to determine if they are tools or toys.  Preschoolers also see a fire fighter completely decked out in his gear.  This is to help them learn that fire fighters aren't really scary, but are there to help you and that you shouldn't hide from them.  The total presetation takes about 20-30 min.

School age children learn about fire safety in the kitchen such as moving the toaster away from drapes, making sure electrical outlets aren't overloaded, etc.  These children also practice escaping from a bedroom filled with smoke.  They are also able to see the aftermath of a fire in a bedroom.  The children also develop a fire drill/plan of their own as a part of this program.

Lastly, there is a hands on play area for the children.  It is small, but the kids enjoy it.  There is a fire engine to play and and a fire pole to slide down. 

The Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center is not free.  Parking is free, but admission is not.  Cost is $6 for adults and $4 for children. They do offer group rates. Their hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10a-4p.  The museum is also available for parties. 

Address: 260 N. Fourth St.
Columbus, OH 43215

Fun, Free or Inexpensive Things to Do Around Central, OH: Metro Parks

Did you know that there are 15 metro parks in the Columbus area?  Yes, 15!  Plus, there are plans for a new one in Grove City (not sure when it will come into fruition though).  All 15 of these metro parks offer free programs for children, teens, adults, and seniors.  Our tax dollars go to support these metro parks so why not check them out?  You might even learn a thing or two!  :-)

The one we frequent the most is Battelle Darby Creek since it is the closest.  Plus, they offer a regularly scheduled Preschooler Program each month.  In fact they have four of these each month!  That is more than any other metro park.  The Battelle Darby Creek Preschoolers Programs are generally offered on the second Tuesday of the month at 9:30a and 11:00a and then again on the last Friday of the month (sometimes this will change due to holidays and such) at 11:00a and 1:00p.  The same program is presented at all four and the topic changes each month.  Last month was owls. This month they will be talking about snakes.

The Preschooler Programs (ages 3-5.5 or 6) seem to be fairly standard from park to park.  The kids gather on the floor while the naturalist talks about the topic.  After that they will read and story and sing a song.  Once that is done a craft is made based on the topic for the month.  The programs last 45 min to an hour and are lots of fun!

Some of the metro parks (generally Sharon Woods and Blendon Woods) offer Homeschooler Programs as well.  The age range is for 6 and up, but after going to one I think they are geared more toward ages 10 and up.  It was a little too much for my six year old Monkey.  The owl program at Sharon Woods lasted almost two hours with lots of sitting still time.  He doesn't do well with sitting still and he found it boring.  At the end they dissected an owl pellet and he did enjoy that. We've not been to any other Homeschooler Programs so I cannot comment much about them.  We've been to many, many more Preschooler Programs.

Check out Metro Parks Programs for the current schedule of events.  Some of the metro parks require registration for their programs and others do not. 

The photos below are all from various programs at Battelle Darby Creek.

Young Chef's Academy: A Fun Activity For Winter.

Does your little one always want to help you in the Kitchen?  Does he eat more (or more variety) if he helps you to cook?  Then you might want to check out Young Chef's Academy in Gahanna.

Last week my moms' group had a cooking class at Young Chef's Academy.  Our group had a private, 1.5 hour time slot.  We dropped the kids off and went to lunch.  While we were gone the children made pizza.  Sounds simple, right?  No. Well, sort of. 

At Young Chef's Academy the children learn to cook mostly from scratch (I say mostly because they have been known to use a mix or two).  We chose a pizza class because we had younger children attending.  For this class they made pizza dough from scratch.  All the kids were fascinated by the bubbling, blooming yeast.  Then, they were each able to mix the dough.  After that it rose while they talked about cooking and colored paper chef's hats.  Then, it was time to roll out the pizza, top it, and bake it.  Afterward the children were able to enjoy their creation.  It was a hit!  None of the pizza was left!  Monkey even asked for more!

We have been to Young Chef's Academy twice.  Each time my son has absolutely enjoyed himself.  I only wish there was one closer to us because he would love to take a weekly class.

Young Chef's Academy has classes and camps for children ages 3+.  They also offer birthday parties and field trips for groups (school, Scouts, moms' groups, etc.).  This is not one of the cheaper things I post about, but it is fun.  The cost for the private class was $14 per child.  Weekly classes are $79 with a three month minimum and a $49 registration fee.

Another free thing to do with kids in Central Ohio!

Last summer my husband, son, several friends and I ran in a 5K race at the Village Chapel United Methodist Church in Ashville, OH.  It was called the Freedom Run.  One of the things that the entry fees helped to support was a mission of the church called The Way. 

The Way helps to keep teens and pre-teens busy and off the streets.  They have Bible study and other activities.  One of the big ones is an indoor skateboard park.  As far as I know it is the only indoor skate park in this part of Ohio.  At the time I just filed this away.  Fast forward five months to an almost six year old Monkey who wants to learn to skateboard. 

Last Wednesday night my son and I drove down to Ashville to check out The Way Skate Park.  It is in a 4,000 sq ft warehouse on Main St in Ashville.  It has a half pipe and several ramps (excuse my ignorance as I am just now learning about skateboarding).  That night there were about nine kids there (mostly middle schoolers) on bikes and skateboards.  Almost all of the children were very polite and willing to help out my little novice. I think it was a good experience overall.  Monkey had a great time and has been begging to go back.

If you'd like to go:
The Way Skate Park
269 West Main
Ashville, OH
Hours:  Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights from 6-9p. 
Cost: Admission is by donation.  The park is staffed by volunteers. 
Skateboard rental is $1. 
Helmet rental is $1 (helmets are required).

Fun, inexpensive or free things to do with kids around Central Ohio #11--Fryer Flicks on the Hill

Here is another freebie for the movie buffs out there. For this one you don't even need kids as many of the movies are classics and not children's movies.  Every Thursday night in Grove City a movie is shown at dusk at Fryer Park.  The movie screen is near/in one of the parking lots.  Patrons sit on the sledding hill to view the movie.   Ice cream and snacks are sold.  Come early to get a good seat and let the kids play in the spaced themed park.

What: Fryer Flicks on the Hill
When:  Every Thursday at Dusk
Where:  Fryer Park  at 3899 Orders Road in Grove City
What to Bring:  A blanket or lawn chair.  Snacks are also allowed (no glass)

Schedule:
Thursday, July 8: “Casablanca”
Thursday, July 15: “Hotel for Dogs”
Thursday, July 22: “Beverly Hills Cop” (edited edition)
Thursday, July 29: “Charlotte’s Web”
Thursday, Aug. 5: “Rudy”

Fun, inexpensive or free things to do in Central Ohio #10--Free Concerts

If you are looking for something fun and free to do on a Friday evening with the family head on down to Grove City.  There you will find the Summer Sizzle Concert Series. 

What:  Summer Sizzle Concert Series
When: Fridays in the summer from 7-8:30p
Where:  Park St. and Broadway (Hwy 62) in Grove City
Schedule:
Family Fun Friday, Summer Sizzle Concerts

June 4: Paul Clark Band, Oldies
June 11: Eight Day A Week, Beatles Tribute Band
June 18: The Cyndi Black Big Band, Big Band
June 25: Dwight Lenox, Jazz/Swing
July 9: Blend, Acappella 50's
July 16: Robin Lacy & DeZydeco, Zydeco/New Orleans
July 30: Party of Nine, Classic Rock/R&B
Aug. 6: These Guys Live, Classic Rock
Aug. 13: Soul Kitch'n, Classic Soul/R&B/Funk
Aug. 20: Coyote Canyon Band, Variety/Family Favorites

During the concert Park St. is blocked off so they kids can play.  Kids can play with sidewalk chalk, hula hoops, and jump ropes during the concert.  Don't forget to stop in Graeter's for yummy ice cream or shakes to help you cool off during the concert.

If you come you may want to get there early or bring a chair as the provided chairs tend to fill up quickly.  If you don't care about a chair there is generally room to sit on the curb so you can watch your kids play while you listen to the music.  Oh, and be prepared for dirty children!  They are playing on the asphalt and tend to get filthy in the process.

Fun, inexpensive or free things do to around Central Ohio #9---Free Movies

Does your child like movies?  Are you looking for a fun, free way to spend a morning?  Then come down to Grove City on Wednesday or Thursday mornings in the summer. 

Each Wednesday and Thursday in the summer Star Cinemas has a free movie showing.  The movies begin at 10a and doors open at 9a.  So, get there early if you want a seat!  Here is a link to the showings: Star Cinema.  The Family Summer Morning Matinee Series list is toward the bottom of the page.

Have you signed up for your local library's summer reading program?

This is another free thing to do this summer.  Most public libraries across the country have some sort of summer reading program.  It is for both adults and children.  Even children who cannot read can still sign up.  They just need to have an older sibling or adult read to them.  If you haven't checked it out you should.  You may be surprised!

Here the program begins the first week of June and runs until the end of July.  Children mark off squares for every 20 min spent reading.  When they reach a certain point the sheets can be taken in for a raffle entry (reminds me that I need to take mine in).  Once the sheet is completed it is turned in and the child receives a coupon sheet good for free items in the Columbus area and, generally, a back pack.

Also, during the summer the library has special programs for kids of all ages.  For instance, here, we have the Turtle Lady who comes to visit.  She brings turtles, of course, and various other animals for the program.  Last summer we went to a food tasting party.  The kids got to try different types of pancakes and toppings. 

If you are in the Columbus area here is the link to our local library: Get a Clue Summer Reading Program  Check it out!

Fun, free or inexpensive things to do around Central Ohio #7---Splash Pad

I took a few days off due to the holiday, but now it is back to the grind.  Today's installment is for the Central Ohio crowd, sorry.  The fun, free thing today is the Splash Pad in Powell.

The Splash Pad is located at Village Green Park, 47 Hall Street in Powell, OH.  The park is open from dawn until dusk.  The Splash Pad is appropriate for children of all ages (well, maybe teens would be bored).

What to bring:  Kids need to bring or wear a swimsuit unless you want wet regular clothing.  A towel is good to bring as well.  There are bathrooms nearby, but children need to wear shoes in the bathrooms. 

I have only been to the Splash Pad once, but it was lots of fun.  Monkey and I went with our moms' group after a Lollipops concert last year (the concerts are held at the same park).  It was a very hot day and the kids loved being able to cool off at the Splash Pad.

What will you find when you get to the Splash Pad?  You will find a 2000 sq ft water play area.  The area has fountains that shoot up, buckets that drop, and many other fun, water related activities. 

The Splash Pad floor  is made of that squishy, foamy type surface that you see at most water play areas.  I am not sure what it is called.  It is cool for bare feet and also offers a bit of a cushion for falls.  The pad has recently been resurfaced so it should be in great condition for this summer.

What if you don't want to get wet?  Well, you're in luck!  There is a nice dry park right next to the Splash Pad.  Many kids go back and forth between the two areas. 

So, bring a picnic and spend the day at Village Green Park and the Splash Pad in Powell, OH. 

Fun, free or inexpensive things to do around Central Ohio #6---Michael's

Yes, I know there are Michael's crafts stores all over the country.  So, this is another one that can apply to everyone.

When:  Saturday, May 29
Time: 10a-1p or while supplies last
Where:  Your local Michael's store

On Saturday the craft is a flower card.  Here is a link to the card: Flower Card

Michael's has a craft class like this at least once a month.  In June there are two for Father's Day.  On June 5 the craft is a Build a Book Kit.  Book  The time is from 10a-2p or while supplies last.  Children ages three and up are welcome.

More free things to do!

This one is just for active duty military or dependents though, sorry.  Several museums across the country are offering free admission for military members and dependents from Memorial Day through Labor Day.  Here is the link: Military Free Admission  Just click on your state to see which museums are participating. 

Fun, inepensive, or free things to do in Central Ohio #4--Lollipops Concerts

For my fourth installment of fun things to do in Central Ohio I am going to talk about the Lollipops Concerts.  These are held in Powell, OH each summer.  They are free concerts featuring children's bands.

Our moms' group went to one last summer.  It was the first time any of us had been and I wasn't sure what to expect.  The band scheduled to play was Thaddeus Rex.  I had never heard of this band, but then my children's music is limited to Kindermusik and Veggie Tales. 

We were told it would be crowded and they were right!  It was very crowded and I am glad we got there early.  Upon entering the amphitheatre each child was given a Dum Dum lollipop.  I am assuming this is how the concert series got its name.

All of the moms met up (aren't cell phones wonderful?) and spread blankets out before the show began. The kids ran around while we waited for the show to begin.  Once it began the kids were interested in the stage. There was this giant green dinosaur that came onto the stage along with a man with a guitar.  The man sang and the dinosaur danced.  The kids thought it was great and they all began dancing.  The children were invited to dance near the stage and many did. 

The music was rather entertaining.  Yes, it was kids' music, but it also had some funny comments and undertones for adults.  It wasn't all sing songy like Row, Row, Your Boat, and Mary Had a Little Lamb, etc.  They were original songs. 

The concert lasted about an hour. Afterward the band stayed behind to sell CDs and chat with the kids. 

This year the day of the week has changed.  The concerts are now on Mondays and there are only three this summer.  Concerts begin promptly at 10:30. Here is a link to the site: Lollipops Concerts

I highly suggest getting there at least an hour early. Parking is free.  Once you get there mark out your territory as the space fills up quickly.  Bring along sunscreen as there is no shade what-so-ever.  If you plan to stay after the concert and hang out at the Splash Pad (I will blog about this later) bring a swimsuit or at least a towel for your little ones.

The performer I'd most love to see at a Lollipops Concert is Barenaked Ladies.  My son would love to hear them sing the Snacktime CD.  Although, I am 99% sure they would never even entertain coming because they are too popular and successful, but one can dream, right?

Fun, inexpensive, or free things to do in Central Ohio #3---Home Depot

This post actually applies to everyone who has a Home Depot nearby.  On the first Saturday of the month Home Depot has free Kids' Workshops for children ages 5-12.  Workshops are held  from 9-noon or while supplies last.  There is no pre-registration required.  http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?pn=Kids_Workshops&langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053&navFlow=3&searchRedirect=kids workshops&cm_sp=searchredirect-_-kids_workshop_lp-_-x-_-x

The next workshop is scheduled for Saturday, June 5.  The craft is a mini foosball table. 

These workshops expose children to the basics of woodworking and building.  All crafts include hammering and gluing.  Children receive an orange Home Depot apron at their first workshop and a pin upon completion of each craft.

Monkey has been to two of this Kids' Workshops.  He has enjoyed both, but both have required considerable help from an adult.  He has made a firetruck and a perpetual calendar.

Fun, inexpensive, or free things to do in Central Ohio #2

Sorry about yesterday.  We spent the day at the zoo and then I had a raging headache and went to bed early.  This is what I had planned for yesterday's post:

Swisher Creek Alpaca Farm located in Blacklick, OH  www.alpacanation.com/swishercreekfarm.asp
614-939-1872  or swishercreekfarm@aol.com  Tours are free, but you need to call/email to schedule one.

This is a small alpaca farm owned by Judy and Pete Klein.  I met them at our local farmer's market a few years ago and contacted them about a tour.  Our moms' group went last fall for an up close and personal tour.  Blacklick is about an hour away from Columbus.

We arrived at the farm about mid-morning for a private tour.  We had about 10 kids with us.  Judy meet us at the shop behind their house to begin the tour.  She began by telling us about their farm and the alpacas.  We then walked down the road to the alpacas.  Judy let us all go into the alpaca pen.  This was the first time all of us had been inside one. The kids loved it!  There were alpacas of all sizes and colors, although I think the caramel colored ones are the prettiest.  The alpacas were skittish at first, but then their curiosity got the better of them and they walked up to the children.  The children were able to pet some of them and to hear the sounds that they make.

After we left the pen Judy answered any of the questions that we had.  We walked back up the road to the barn and went into the shop. 

In the shop Judy has fiber from her alpacas for sale.  We found some very unique Christmas ornaments in the shop.  Monkey fell in love with a miniature alpaca toy and it had to come home.  Judy also has knit items for sale in the shop as well as yarn and roving. I am a knitter and loved looking at and feeling the fiber.  If you have never felt alpaca fiber it is very soft, softer than mohair.   Alpaca fiber is also very warm.

The total tour takes less than one hour.  Their only request is that tour goers stop in the gift shop to have a look.

Fun, inexpensive or free things to do in Central Ohio #1

Since I am part of a moms' group here in my town I thought I would post some of the things that we do to help keep us and the kids entertained.  Because most of us stay at home money can be an issue.  So, we try to do a mix of free and paid activities.  I will be posting one or two activities per day.  So, stay tuned!

Velvet Ice Cream Factory in Utica, OH.   http://www.velveticecream.com/
Tours are free.  The factory is open May-October.  Group tours are given Monday-Thursday from 11-3. Please sign in for the tour at the barn.

Velvet Ice Cream is a family run ice cream factory.  The factory is set on several acres of land.  In addition to a water wheel and the ice cream factory on the property you will also find a creek with ducks and geese, a picnic shelter, and two Rainbow play structures.

The actual factory tour is somewhat limited.  Your tour begins in the barn for an iintroduction to the area and to the history of the factory.  After the talk and video you will be escorted up the hill to the factory.  Once inside you are in a room with a large viewing window of the factory.  Your tour guide will tell you about each area of the factory while you watch the ice cream being made and packaged.  In the viewing room you will also find displays of vintage and current Velvet packaging.  My son found it really neat to look at the old style packages (not sure why, but he did).  The tour lasts about 30-45min.

No tour is complete, however, without a stop to the ice cream shop.  In the shop you will find many (if not all) of the yummy ice cream flavors Velvet makes.  So, get your ice cream and go out by the creek or play area to enjoy!

I would plan for an entire afternoon if you go to Velvet.  Bring a lunch and hang out for a bit.  Let the children play while the adults relax and chat.

Monkey and I have been to the factory twice.  Both times he has had a blast!  The first time was with my parents a couple of years ago and the second was last summer with our moms' group.  Each time I think he has enjoyed playing and eating the ice cream more than he has enjoyed the tour, but you must realize he is a very active boy.  The older kids seem to take much more interest in the actual tour.  The tour can also make for a good homeschooling lesson.