Spring is here and so is a fresh batch of free things to do in the Ann Arbor area. Many of these events occur multiple times a month while others are held on one day only.
UofM Museum of Natural History Investigate Labs
Learn how scientific tools and museum specimens can be used to answer questions and solve problems in two Investigate Labs. Ages 6 and up are best suited for Investigate Labs. This will occur every week Tuesday-Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, 1105 North University Ave, Ann Arbor.
The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra will join pianist Kathryn Goodson for a guided introduction to the instruments of the orchestra. This is a great opportunity to get out of the house and let your little ones (five and under) dance and move as they listen to the music.
May 11: Saline District Library, 555 N Maple Rd. Saline.
May 12: Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 South Fifth Ave, Ann Arbor.
May 13: Chelsea District Library, 221 South Main St, Chelsea.
May 13: Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St, Dexter.
May 15: Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker Branch, 5577 Whittaker Rd, Ypsilanti.
Wednesdays
Kids 8 and up can join community advocate Glenn, Stefan, Corduroy and Eric for drop in D & D adventures at Sylvan Factory on Wednesday nights. This event is free but registration is required. This event will be held on May 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 from 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.
Sylvan Factory, 2459 W Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor.
Saturdays
Join The Upkeep Games for a weekly kid’s Pokemon event. Learn to play or battle against others. Great for children ages 6-12; Pokemon helps children with math and reading skills.This will take place every Saturday in May from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
The Upkeep Games, 2121 W. Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor.
Baby Playgroups
Mondays
This is a time for babies up to 24 months and their grown-ups to gather and play. Each playgroup includes 15 minutes of stories, rhymes and songs followed by open playtime. No older siblings please. This will be held on Mondays in May at 10:30 a.m.
Malletts Creek Branch, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor.
May 2
Animal Ear & Floral Headbands
Kids in grades K-5 can design their own headbands using felt ears or flowers, or both!
Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 South Fifth Ave, Ann Arbor.
May 5
Sensation Stations
Young children, 10 months to two years old, can engage their senses by scooping, pouring, shaking, and sorting a variety of materials, and will explore colors, shapes, textures, and sounds!
Ann Arbor Pittsfield Branch Library, 2359 Oak Valley Dr, Ann Arbor.
May 6
Pat-A-Cake Group for Children with Developmental Disabilities
Parents have a place to chat while their children with developmental disabilities and their siblings are participating in structured play at Pat-A-Cake Playgroup.
Work and Play Cafe, 444 North Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti.
Get SCRAPpy
Join SCRAP Creative Reuse for a fun hands-on experience, giving new life to unique materials.
Westgate Branch Library, 2503 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor.
May 14
Mother’s Day in Nature
The Howell Nature Center will extend free admission to moms & grandmothers on Mothers Day.
Howell Nature Center, 1005 Triangle Lake Rd, Howell.
Woodland Creature Paper Dolls
Kids can make a moveable paper doll of their favorite woodland creature.
Malletts Creek Branch, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor.
May 18
Read to Hugo the Library Dog
Reading to a Therapaws dog helps children develop confidence and become better readers. Sign up when you arrive at the Library for a 10-minute slot with Hugo.
YDL-Superior, 8795 MacArthur Blvd, Ypsilanti.
May 19
Wildflower Papercraft
Kids can celebrate the arrival of spring by making colorful paper flowers.
Traverwood Branch Library, 3333 Traverwood Dr, Ann Arbor.
May 20
Tiny Window Greenhouse
Kids can make a tiny window greenhouse and watch as their very own plant seedlings grow!
Malletts Creek Branch, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor.
May 24
Spring All Ages Clothing Swap
Join YDL in the downtown library plaza for a Spring All Ages Clothing Swap to find something new and connect with others in the community. All ages and sizes are encouraged to attend. Registration is not required but is encouraged for those bringing clothing.
YDL-Downtown, 229 West Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti.
May 28
Art Supply Swap
Are you a crafter with too many supplies on your hands? Do you want to try a new hobby, but don’t want to buy even more material? Join the Traverwood Branch Library for an art supply swap, where you can bring in your gently used supplies or pick up some new art tools! You do not need to bring materials in order to pick up new supplies!
Traverwood Branch Library,3333 Traverwood Dr, Ann Arbor.
