Indy's Child | May 2026

WHAT KIDS REALLY LEARN AT SUMMER CAMP

FOR FEARLESS

LETTER

FROM

THE EDITOR

Parenting Outside My Comfort Zone

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

I’ll admit: I am not an “adventurous parent.” When I think of family time, I imagine movie nights, board games and playing at a park. What I did not envision was strapping on a helmet and zip-lining over a forest canopy. Or strapping on a helmet and riding an ATV through bear country. Or strapping on a helmet and spelunking through a dark cave. Basically, if an activity requires a helmet, I usually want nothing to do with it.

But sometimes, you do things for your kids.

It started small. A gentle family hike that turned out to be less gentle and more uphill. Then, the hikes that took us to cliffs that make you question your life choices. My kids were thrilled. Me? I spent most of the time wondering how many people had ever fallen off this cliff that I was standing over.

But something unexpected happened along the way. I didn’t just survive these adventures. I started to (kind of) look forward to them.

I still approach activities like ATV riding with a lot of wariness and a mental review of my insurance coverage. But once we’re out there, with mud on our shoes and wind in our faces, I begin to understand what my kids love about all of these helmeted activities: adventure can be fun!

If you’re looking for a way to connect with the family in an adventuresome way, check out “Adventurous Fun for Families” on page 32. We’ll show you some destinations around the Midwest that turn an ordinary trip into an unforgettable adventure.

I still love a good movie night, and I always will. (And movie nights don’t require helmets.) But I’ve also come to appreciate the kind of memories that can’t be paused or rewound. The ones that leave you a little sore, a little dirty and completely connected.

FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Barbara Wynne, barbara@indyschild.com

PUBLISHER + SALES

Mary Wynne Cox, mary@indyschild.com

EDITOR

Nicole Sipe, nicolesipe@indyschild.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER + SALES & PRODUCTION

Becca Reynolds, becca@indyschild.com

DIGITAL PUBLISHER + EVENTS

Wendy Hasser, wendy@indyschild.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Katie Clark, katie@indyschild.com

ADMINISTRATION

Emily Kirchmann, emily@indyschild.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Samantha Kupiainen, Jessica Willits

BILLING billing@indyschild.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS calendar@indyschild.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER GC Photography

1. Adan (4) and Carolina (1) at The Children's Museum

2. Joy (1) at home

3. Lynne (3) at Mallow Run

4. Remy (7) at Roller Cave

5. Corria-Latrice (3 mos) at home

6. Stori (2) at the Indianapolis Zoo

7. Beckham (2) at Charlie Brown's Pancake & Steak House

news + notes

OUR MONTHLY ROUNDUP OF NEWS YOU CAN USE

That’s the year Congress officially proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day. This year, Mother’s Day lands on May 10.

CINDERELLA at

the Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre

Cinderella at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre

Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo! On May 28-July 12, Beef & Boards Dinner brings the enchanting fairy tale Cinderella to life, with all of the romance, magic and humor that only Rodgers & Hammerstein can deliver. Follow Cinderella as she dares to dream beyond her humble circumstances, with the help of a Fairy Godmother who reminds us that anything is possible. Featuring beloved songs like “In My Own Little Corner” and

BACK

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO Indianapolis-Area Playgrounds

Brought to you by Franciscan Health

Summer means more playground time! Indy is packed with amazing outdoor spots for kids of every age and ability, so running out of fun isn’t an option. Our Ultimate Guide to Indianapolis-Area Playgrounds, sponsored by Franciscan Health, makes it easy to find your next go-to play spot. We’ve sorted everything by county and highlighted the best of the best: mud-free playgrounds, inclusive spaces, worththe-drive destinations and indoor options for those rainy days.

Find them all at indyschild.com/playgroundsindianapolis

“Ten Minutes Ago,” this timeless tale sparkles with wit, warmth and wonder — captivating audiences of all ages with its message of hope, kindness and the power of dreams.

Purchase tickets online at beefandboards.com

AND BETTER THAN EVER: The Broad Ripple Art Fair

The Indy Art Center's largest fundraiser, the Broad Ripple Art Fair, returns on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17! This is your chance to support and celebrate Indianapolis arts, and shop from 185+ local, regional and national artists.

Visitors can enjoy one-of-a-kind art, live music, food and beverages, artist demonstrations, and interactive art activities for people of all ages. New this year are lower ticket prices: $15 presale and $18 at the gate for adults, and $5 for children 3-12. Children 3 and younger are free.

There is also the option of purchasing a wristband, which allows access on both Saturday and Sunday.

Date: May 16 & 17

Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: Indy Art Center, 820 E. 67th St.,

More info: indyartcenter.org/braf

Did You Know?

The first full week of May is Teacher Appreciation Week, a time to celebrate the many educators who pour their hearts into helping children grow!

Age: 6 years old

Age: 8 years old

My favorites: My favorites:

COLOR / Blue

FOOD / Cheeseburgers

SPORT / Basketball

MOVIE / Mario Galaxy

ICE CREAM / Vanilla

SNACK / MadeGood bars

SUPER HERO / Batman

BOOK / Narwhal and Jelly series

My favorite thing to do with my family: Go on vacation!

When I grow up: I want to be a basketball player!

COLOR / Neon yellow

FOOD / Cheeseburgers

SPORT / Basketball

MOVIE / GOAT

ICE CREAM / Caramel

SNACK / Cheez-Its

SUPER HERO / Batman

BOOK / Harry Potter series

My favorite thing to do with my family: Go on bike rides!

When I grow up: I want to be an author!

Where Play Sparks Young Children’s Curiosity

id you know that The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis works with the Indiana Department of Child Services to offer free museum memberships to qualifying Indiana foster families? This special membership includes all adults in the household, along with foster children, stepchildren and biological children under 21. It’s one way the museum supports caregivers who open their homes — and their hearts — to children who need them.

For families with young children, the museum offers five floors of hands-on fun, plus an outdoor sports experience designed to help kids move, explore and play. Whether it’s the life-sized plush baby alpacas in Take Me There®: Peru, or a joyful ride on the historic Carousel, the museum gives families a place to learn and connect together.

Play-Based Learning for Ages 5 and Under

Families with little ones won’t want to miss Playscape®, an exhibit created specifically for children age 5 and under. Older siblings are welcome to join as “helpers,” but the space is intentionally designed for early learners. “Research continues to show that children learn best through play,” says Elyse Handel, Early Childhood Education Manager at The Children’s Museum. “Even at a young age, we

WORDS BY MATT TODD, THE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

see that children gravitate and engage in play that is motivating, stimulating and interesting to them.” With a climbing structure, water table, sandbox, Rube-Goldberg-style reaction contraption, and art and music studios, Playscape invites children to explore at their own pace.

STEM Discovery for Early Learners

Under the guidance of caring museum staff, Discovery Lab offers another early childhood space where young children can examine rocks, plants, fossils and other natural materials using kid-friendly science tools. It’s a gentle introduction to STEM concepts, and a perfect place for young children to investigate, play and learn.

Outdoor Play for Every Ability Level

Outside, families will find a sports wonderland equipped with “my-sized” hockey sticks, lightweight foam soccer balls, “quick catch” baseball gloves, a mini pedal car race car and more. The equipment is intentionally chosen to help even the smallest

athletes feel confident and successful while trying something new. Because when the play is better, the day is better.

Special Events Designed by Early Childhood Experts

Families can deepen their museum experience by registering for one of the museum’s paid early childhood Special Events:

Young

Explorer’s Backpack Adventure

A playful Peruvian-themed journey with exclusive time in Take Me There: Peru, plus a keepsake scrapbook to remember the adventure.

ABCs of Recess

A weekly series this May that encourages outdoor movement through active-play sports clinics led by museum coaches.

Namaste at the Museum: Yoga for Little Learners

Practice beginner yoga skills with a certified youth yoga instructor and explore breathing techniques, learn beginner level poses and play fun movement games. Each monthly session takes place in a different exhibit and includes early play opportunities in the exhibit before the museum opens.

For all families, moments of connection matter. The Children’s Museum is proud to offer a place where children can explore freely and families — however they’re formed — can build joyful memories together.

BECOME A FOSTER PARENT

Open your home and change a life.

Opening your home to a foster child is a decision that can change a child’s life, and your own life, too. Foster parenting gives children a safe, supportive environment during difficult transitions, whether they are waiting to reunite with their biological families or looking for a more permanent placement. Understandably, the process can seem complex! But understanding each step can make the fostering journey a little more manageable.

What is Foster Care?

Foster care provides temporary homes for children who can’t safely remain with their families, due to things like neglect, abuse or other challenges. As a foster parent, your role is to offer

stability and support during a time of uncertainty.

It’s important to note that foster parenting is not the same as adoption. While some foster parents eventually adopt, the main goal of foster care is to reunite the child with their biological family. This means foster parents need to be prepared to support that goal, even if it’s emotionally difficult. Foster parents become part of a larger team that is working to support the child.

Meeting the Requirements

In Indiana, foster parents are licensed through the state’s Department of Child Services (DCS). Many of the general qualifications in Indiana are similar to other states.

To become a licensed foster parent in Indiana, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old.

• Complete a licensing application and background check. This includes criminal history and a fingerprintbased national history.

• Show financial stability. You need to be able to show that you can meet the child's financial needs without relying on foster care reimbursement.

• Be physically and mentally able to care for children. This might include getting a medical statement from a physician.

• Provide a safe home environment. Your home needs to meet state licensing standards, inc-

luding a separate sleeping space for the child, fire extinguishers and reliable transportation.

• Complete CPR and first-aid training.

• Do pre-service training This will need to be done before and on an ongoing basis each year after getting your license.

You don’t need to be married or own your home to be a foster parent. Foster parents can be single, married, renting or homeowners. What matters is whether you’re able to provide a safe, consistent and nurturing environment.

Training and Licensing

Before welcoming a child into your home, you’ll need to complete a training program. This training will help pre-

pare you for the realities of foster care, including understanding childhood trauma, learning effective parenting strategies and managing challenging behaviors. After the training, the next step is getting your license, which includes paperwork, interviews and inspections.

The Home Study

A home study is done to make sure your household is ready for fostering. During the home study, a social worker will visit your home to check for safety and space. They will also interview you and anyone else who lives in your home. You’ll also talk with them about your lifestyle and parenting philosophy, and they’ll go over any paperwork or documents that you submitted. Social workers are not looking for perfection, but it helps to be prepared. They just want to make sure that both you and the child will be set up for success.

Welcoming a Foster Child

Once you’re approved, you might receive a call about a potential placement. This can happen quickly and with little notice. You’ll usually get basic information about the child, like age and background.

The first days and weeks are important for building trust. Keep your expectations realistic. Many foster children have been through trauma, and it might take time for them to feel safe and comfortable. Simple things can make a big difference, like keeping consistent routines, being patient and listening without judgment. Remember: Your role is to provide stability and care, not be a perfect person.

Fostering isn’t always easy, and placements can be temporary. But the impact you have on a child can last a lifetime. By offering safety, compassion and consistency, you can become one of the most meaningful experiences of a child’s life.

PREPPING YOUR HOME FOR A FOSTER CHILD

You don’t need to do a home makeover to create a welcoming space for a foster child. You just need to give a little thought and attention to what a child might need.

Make Space

Make sure the child has their own designated area for clothes and personal items, even if it’s just a drawer or small closet space.

Provide Comfort Items

Soft bedding, a nightlight and a few ageappropriate toys or books can help a child feel more at ease.

Think Safety

Check that your home meets safety standards: working smoke detectors, secure medications and childproofing where necessary.

Keep It Neutral

Avoid gendered or personalized décor. Allow the child to add their own touches as they settle in.

Stock the Basics

Have the essentials ready, such as toiletries, snacks and clothing in a few sizes, if possible.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

A welcome note, a smile and a calm environment can go a long way in helping a child feel safe.

Understanding Complex Needs in Foster and Adopted Children

still remember some of those early parenting moments where everything felt new, layered and a little hard to name. The kind where you’re learning your child in real time, adjusting, growing, and realizing that connection doesn’t come from having all the answers, but from staying curious and present. As a special needs adoptive parent, this wasn’t the version of parenting I once pictured. But it’s also not something I would ever trade. Like so many parents in the foster care and adoption world, what I want most is simple: for my children to feel understood, accepted, and supported for who they are.

And in writing this, that’s the hope too, to open the door for more understanding, and maybe help other families feel a little less alone in the process. Because here’s the question that keeps coming up in both foster and adoptive spaces: What if we’re misunderstanding the very “behaviors” we’re trying to support?

Children who have experienced foster care or adoption often carry layers of complexity. Trauma is real, and it matters. But according to Natalie Morris, adoption coordinator at Firefly Children & Family Alliance, it’s rarely the whole story. “With behaviors, the ‘why’ is incredibly important,” she explains.

WORDS BY JESSICA WILLITS, NEURODIVERSITY CONNECTION

“Trauma can be a factor, but it’s not the only factor. When we attribute behaviors to just one thing, we miss opportunities to help a child heal and grow.”

Nuance Matters

In foster care especially, children are navigating constant transitions. New homes, new caregivers, new expectations. It makes sense that behaviors may shift in response to environment alone. Morris emphasizes the importance of time and consistency, noting that before drawing conclusions, children need space to settle into a stable environment so patterns can become clearer.

But even then, not all behaviors point back to trauma. Sometimes, what looks like defiance, withdrawal or sensory seeking may actually be rooted in neurodivergence. Differences in communication, regulation

or development can be subtle, especially when layered with a child’s lived experiences. Morris encourages families to lean on pediatricians and specialists, especially when a child’s emotional or physical development seems out of sync with peers.

When those differences are overlooked, the impact can be long-term.

Early intervention plays a critical role, not just for trauma, but for neurodivergence too. A delayed or missed diagnosis can mean missed opportunities for support, both at home and in school. “The older children get, the more resistant they can be to healing,” Morris says. “And with a later diagnosis, they may miss key skills needed to interact with the world.”

For families, this can feel overwhelming. The systems aren’t always designed for nuance. Labels can come quickly, while deeper understanding takes time.

How to Offer Support

It starts with letting go of the idea of a “perfect” outcome. “You have to meet the child where they are,” Morris says. That means setting realistic goals, staying flexible and advocating fiercely, not for who you hoped your child would be, but for who they already are.

Because at the end of the day, children in foster care and adoption aren’t asking for anything extraordinary. They’re asking for what all kids need: consistency, support and to be seen clearly. And when we begin to look beyond behavior and toward understanding, we get a little closer to giving them exactly that.

GWhen Kids FEEL THE PRESSURE

Simple tips to support healthy ways of coping with stress.

rowing up, my mom always knew when I was stressed. My ponytail didn’t stand a chance. I would twist and turn the daylights out of it — whether it was an upcoming exam, a basketball game, or something going on with friends. I felt things deeply, and it showed. At the time, I didn’t have many tools to cope, but I’ve learned a lot since then, and learned to let more things roll off my shoulders, too. Now, as a parent, I find myself hoping I can help my own kids build those skills a little earlier.

The truth is, kids feel stress, too. It might not look the same as adult stress, but it’s just as real. Busy schedules, social dynamics, school expectations, sensory overwhelm, and changes at home can all add up. And depending on a child’s age, stress can show up in ways that are easy to miss or misunderstand.

When we start to recognize what stress looks like for our kids, we’re better able to support them in ways that actually help.

PRESCHOOL (Ages 3-5)

At this age, kids are still learning how to express what’s going on inside. Stress doesn’t usually come out as “I’m overwhelmed.” It might look like meltdowns, clinginess, trouble sleeping, or even going backward on skills they’ve already learned.

Little kids are especially sensitive to changes. New routines, new environments, even exciting milestones like starting preschool or becoming a big sibling. What can help:

• Keep routines predictable. Knowing what comes next helps kids feel safe. Even simple visual schedules can make a big difference.

• Stay close and calm. When a child is overwhelmed, your calm presence matters more than any words. Sitting nearby, offering a hug, or speaking gently can help them settle.

• Make breathing playful. Try “smell the flower, blow out the candle” to introduce calming breaths in a way that feels natural.

• Let them play it out. Play is how young kids process the world. Pretend play, drawing, or sensory activities like playdough can help release stress.

The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that warm, responsive relationships are one of the strongest supports for children learning to manage stress.

GRADE SCHOOL (Ages

6-10)

As kids grow, so does their world. School becomes more demanding, friendships get more layered, and kids may start comparing themselves to others.

At this stage, they’re beginning to understand their feelings, but they still need support figuring out what to do with them. Stress might show up as irritability, avoiding school, frequent stomachaches, or putting a lot of pressure on themselves. What can help:

• Put words to feelings. Naming what you notice, like, “It seems like you’re feeling nervous about that test,” can help kids feel understood.

• Break things down. Big tasks can feel overwhelming. Helping kids take things one step at a time builds confidence.

• Encourage creative outlets. Art, music, movement, or even just time outside can help kids release stress in healthy ways.

• Protect downtime. Kids need space to rest and recharge, especially when life feels busy.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights that learning coping skills early helps children build resilience they’ll carry into adulthood.

MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL

(Ages 11-18)

The teen years come with a lot. Academic pressure, social expectations, extracurriculars, and figuring out who they are can all feel like a lot to carry.

Teens might not always say they’re stressed, but you might notice it in other ways, like pulling away, changes in sleep or appetite, irritability, or losing interest in things they usually enjoy. What can help:

• Keep the door open. Teens are more likely to talk when they don’t feel judged or rushed. Sometimes just listening is enough.

• Encourage healthy habits. Movement, rest, and small breaks from screens or social media can go a long way.

• Support time management. Helping teens prioritize and set realistic expectations can ease some of the pressure.

• Model balance. When kids see us taking breaks and setting boundaries, it gives them permission to do the same.

The National Institute of Mental Health notes that these years are key for developing coping strategies that often stick into adulthood.

SUPPORTING KIDS THROUGH IT ALL

No matter their age, kids don’t need us to take away every stressor. What they really need is support in understanding what they’re feeling and tools to move through it. Sometimes that looks like slowing things down. Sometimes it means seeing behavior as communication instead of something to fix. And often, it just means being there.

Because just like that ponytail I used to twist when I was overwhelmed, our kids are always giving us clues. When we learn to notice and respond with care, we’re helping them build skills they’ll use for the rest of their lives.

What Kids Really Learn at Summer Camp

How camp builds important life skills.

hen you think of summer camp, you probably imagine canoes gliding across lakes, kids singing around a campfire, and messy arts-and-crafts projects. Yes, those moments are certainly part of the magic of camp, but they’re only a small part of what camp really is. Beneath the archery lessons and lazy moments by the pool is something far more lasting: a crash course in life skills that shape kids long after summer ends.

Independence, One Small Decision at a Time

At camp, kids quickly learn to navigate daily life without constant guidance from parents. From choosing what to wear based on the weather to keeping track of their belongings, they begin making decisions for themselves. These might seem like small things, but they build confidence. A child who can organize their day at camp is a child who returns home more capable and self-assured.

Resilience Through Real Challenges

Camp isn’t always easy, and that’s a good thing. Whether it’s missing home or not winning a competition, kids face real (but manageable) challenges. Without the immediate safety net of home, they learn how to cope, adapt and try again. This kind of resilience can’t be taught through lectures. It’s built through experience.

Social Skills Beyond the Classroom

Unlike school, camp groups kids together in a more relaxed, unstructured environment. They share cabins, collaborate on activities and solve conflicts in real time. This helps kids build empathy and teamwork. Kids learn how to navigate disagreements and form friendships with people who might be very different from them.

Responsibility + Accountability

At camp, everyone has a role. Kids are often responsible for keeping their space clean, helping with group tasks and being on time for activities. If they forget their flashlight or don’t show up prepared, they feel the natural consequences. These moments teach accountability in a way that feels fair and immediate.

Trying New Things

Camp creates a unique environ ment where trying something new is encouraged and failure is part of the fun. A child might try to rock climb for the first time or act in a talent show, even though they have stage fright. Everyone is learning together, so there’s less pressure to be perfect. This helps kids take risks, which is a skill that carries into their adult life.

Unplugging + Being Present

In a world full of screens, camp is that rare chance to unplug. Without constant notifications, kids are free to be more present in the moment. They might notice the sound of birds, the feeling of the wind, and the joy of a face-to-face conversation. This mindfulness helps reduce stress and improves emotional well-being.

Problem-Solving in the Real World

Camp life is full of little puzzles. You learn how to fix a broken bracelet, how to work as a team to win a game, or how to stay dry during a surprise rainstorm. These situations require creativity and quick thinking. Over time, kids learn to approach problems with curiosity rather than frustration.

A Stronger Sense of Identity

Most importantly, camp gives kids space to discover who they are outside of their usual environment. Away from school labels and routines, they can explore new interests and redefine themselves. The shy child might become the one who tells jokes at dinner. The cautious kid might discover a love for adventure.

The real value of camp lies in these invisible lessons. Summer camp isn’t just about filling time — it’s about shaping character. Kids return home not just with souvenirs, but with stronger confidence, deeper friendships and a growing sense of who they are. Most importantly, they’ll learn how to navigate life, which is a skill that lasts far beyond summer.

AYS Make this summer unforgettable with AYS Summer Days! Our full-day camps offer a fun, enriching experience with engaging activities, arts, exciting field trips, and specialty mini-camps. Open to all families, regardless of the school or district they attend. Secure your child’s spot today! 4701 N. Keystone Ave., Suite 475, Indianapolis, IN, 46205, ayskids.org/summer, breaks@ayskids.org, 844-865-3278

Dates: June 1 – July 17 / Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm / Ages: Rising Kindergarten through Rising 8th Graders

Bach to Rock Music School

Unleash your child’s inner rock star this summer at Bach to Rock! Our high-energy music camps in Fishers, Carmel, and Zionsville offer a fun, hands-on experience across a variety of camp options, where kids explore music, learn new instruments, and jam with friends. Perfect for beginners and seasoned musicians, our camps inspire creativity, build confidence, and ignite a lifelong love of music! (317) 660-5285, Locations in Carmel, Fishers, and Zionsville, carmel. bachtorock.com, fishers.bachtorock.com, zionsville.bachtorock.com, carmel@ bachtorock.com

Dates: Offered every week of the summer, specific dates vary by location Hours: 9am - 4pm, half-day and full-day camp options available / Ages: 3.5-17

Camp Bravo: The Performing Arts Conservatory Summer

Camp The Performing Arts Conservatory offers a family environment where youth can thrive and feel safe and perform without judgement. The campers, grades 57, will learn the art of collaboration and teamwork. (317) 436-7997, 7160 Shadeland Station, Indianapolis, IN 46256, tpacindy.org, admin@tpacindy.org

Dates: June 22nd - July 3rd, 2026 / Hours: 9:00 - 4:00 pm / Ages: Entering grades 5 - 7

Camp Cathedral Camp Cathedral is dedicated to providing every camper with a safe environment to learn, discover, and have fun! We offer more than 50 enrichment camps, including theatre, music, art, and community service. In addition, our ever-popular sports camps provide an opportunity to be coached by state championshipwinning coaches. Leadership and adventure camps are also offered, so register today! (317) 968-7352, campcathedral.com, aernst@gocathedral. com

Dates: June 1 - July 24 / Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. with before and after camp care available / Ages: Kindergarten-Grade 9

Camp JCC Camp JCC days are packed with fun, friendship, and meaningful growth. Kids enjoy sports, games, arts and crafts, all-camp activities, and daily swimming in a safe, supportive environment. With outdoor recreation across our 40-acre campus and endless opportunities to learn and play, Camp JCC is summer done right. (317) 715-9246, 6701 Hoover Rd Indianapolis, IN 46260, jccindy. org/summer-camps, hhensel@jccindy.org

Dates: June 1st - July 24 / Hours: 8-4pm / Ages: K-9

Camp Riley at Bradford Woods

We partner with Riley Children's Hospital to put on an adaptive summer camp for all. Campers with a wide range of diagnoses get the opportunity to experience a week of camp and become the best versions of themselves! 5040 SR 67 N, Martinsville, IN, (765) 342-2915 | (765) 349-5119, wgershon@iu.edu, bradfordwoods. iu.edu/index.html

Dates: May 24–July 31 / Hours: All day / Ages: 8–18 (adult camp also available)

Central Indiana Academy of Dance There's something for everyone this summer at CIAOD! The summer starts off June 1st with our popular young dancer day camps, featuring themes such as Frozen, Moana and Bluey, tor ages 2.5-6! Themes change each week, as do the crafts and performance dances! Don't forget to have your older dancer join us for our Youth Dance Camp for ages 6-12, July 6th-10th! Don't forget we also have summer classes! 14950 Greyhound Court #4, Carmel, IN 46032, (317) 581-2423, ciaodance.com, studio@ciaodance.com

Dates: June 2nd through July 31st / Ages: 2.5-12

Children's Art Classes, Brownsburg Children’s Art Classes offers fun summer workshops for ages 5–18 in our children’s art studio. Professional artists guide students through painting, drawing, watercolor, acrylics, and ceramics! Workshops include Hogwarts-Inspired Art, Mosaic Birdhouses, Stained Glass Painting, Pikachu Painting, Clay Coil Pots, Anime/ Manga Comics, Oil Pastel, Beginning Drawing, & more.(463) 710-5101, 578 W Northfield Dr, Suite 1070, Brownsburg, childrensartclasses.com/brownsburg

Code Ninjas Fishers Unleash Your Inner Ninja This Summer! Transform your child’s love for technology into an

exciting learning adventure! Guided by our expert team of Code Senseis, Code Ninjas Camps empower Ninjas to gain valuable tech skills while making new friends.Campers can choose from a wide variety of immersive topics, from building their own Roblox games and modding in Minecraft to 3D printing, coding. (317) 827-6192, 11501 Geist Pavilion Dr #112, Fishers, IN 46037, codeninjas.com/ in-fishers/camps, fishersin@codeninjas. com

Dates: May 26 - July 31 / Hours: Morning (8:30 AM - 11:30 AM), Afternoon (12 PM - 3 PM), and Full-day (8:30 AM - 3 PM) / Ages: 7 - 14

DeVeau's Summer Camp

Extravaganza Fun is our ultimate goal! At DeVeau’s, campers make new friends, try new things, and learn new skills from trained coaches in a positive and safe environment. Your child can spend the summer building self-confidence with exciting and age-appropriate activities. All our summer camps take place in our 56,000-square-foot gym; fun is in the forecast, no matter the weather! 9032 Technology Drive, Fishers Indiana 46038, deveaus.com, information@deveaus.com, (317) 849-7744

Dates: June 9-July 24 / Hours: 7am-6pm Before Camp Care offered from 8am-9am / Ages: 3-12

Flat Rock River YMCA Camp

Only 45 minutes southeast of Indianapolis, Flat Rock River YMCA Camp is an overnight experience where kids are Included and Engaged, becoming Confident and Inspired. We offer climbing challenge courses, zip line, river activities, creative arts, horseback riding, woodworking, kayaking, canoeing, target sports, fishing, water slide, swimming and more, plus camper personal choices on morning activities. Lifelong relationships and life skills are formed with cabin mates and mentors. Come spend one week or several! 6981 W County Rd 650 N, St Paul, IN 47272, (765) 525-6730, flatrock@indymca.org, FlatRockYMCA.org

Dates: June 7-July 31, 2026 / Hours: Residential (Overnight) Camp / Ages: 7-16

Freetown Village Summer Camp Six weekly sessions of learning and fun! Our camp fosters discovery, appreciation of the arts, and personal growth. Highlighting Indiana and African American history and culture, campers will develop a stronger sense of purpose, while learning about themselves and their

community. Each week ends with a performance showcase of the activities. (317) 631-1870, freetownvillage. org, summercamp@freetownvillage.org

Dates: June – July / Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. / Ages: 5 – 14 (K – 8th grade)

Girl Scouts of Central Indiana Girl Scouts of Central Indiana offers five beautiful camp properties across all of central Indiana: Dellwood in Indianapolis, Gallahue in Brown County, Sycamore Valley in Lafayette, and Na Wa Kwa near Terre Haute. From day camps to overnight camps to fun experiences for the whole family, explore your options at girlscoutsindiana.org! 7201 Girl Scout Lane, girlscoutsindiana.org, customercare @girlscoutsindiana.org, (317) 924-6800

Dates: June 3 - July 24, 2026 / Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm / Ages: Kindergarten - High School

iCode Fishers iCode Summer Camps offer fun, hands-on coding experiences for kids and teens. Dive into programming, game development, robotics, and more with expert instructors. Build new skills, make friends, and unleash your creativity in a supportive environment. Join us and ignite your passion for technology this summer! (317) 348-4917, 12350 Olio Road, icodeschool.com/fishers, lauren.gehle@ icodeschool.com

Dates: May 5th - August 8th / Hours: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm / Ages: 5-14

Indiana Ballet Conservatory 2 camps at the same time! Fairy Tale Camp for dancers aged 3-5 featuring an exploration of ballet technique through the lens of well known fairy tales. Young Dancer Intensive for age 6-9 for those who want a taste of the pre-professional level their own “mini-intensive” while receiving in-depth training in Ballet Technique, Pre-Pointe, and Conditioning. Choose one week, two, or all three! (463) 273-6441, 849 W Carmel Dr, indianaballetconservatory.org, contact@ indianaballetconservatory.org

Dates: June 1st - 19th / Hours: 9am-12pm / Ages: 3-9

Indiana Repertory Theatre Camp Bring theatre to life at the Indiana Repertory Theatre! Children new to theatre can learn the basics, while more advanced actors can sharpen their skills. Small class sizes, highly trained theatre professionals with teaching experience, and an inclusive environment make IRT Theatre Camp a great way to grow as

CAMPS + SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE

an actor and person. (317) 916-4841, 140 West Washington Street, irtlive.com, education@irtlive.com

Dates: June 1-26 / Hours: 9 AM - 4:30 PM / Ages: 5-18

Indianapolis Children's Choir Come learn, laugh, sing, and make magical memories with the Indianapolis Children’s Choir at Summer Music Camp! It’s ideal for kids in grades 1-8 who love music, no matter their level of experience. This week-long camp is packed with part-singing, instruments, music games, and crafts, and ends with a concert where campers will present all that they’ve learned. (317) 940-9640, 9111 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46250, icchoir.org/camp, info@icchoir.org

Dates: June 8-11 OR July 20-23 / Hours: Wednesday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm and Thursday, 9:00 am – the conclusion of the 4:30 pm camp concert / Ages: Entering 1st-8th grade

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum Summer camps at the IMS Museum expose students to the innovation and excitement of racing through STEAM concepts. Robo Racers camp involves coding an autonomous LEGO robot. Racing Careers camp simulates what it’s like to be a team owner. In the Art in Racing camp, students create racing-inspired art pieces. (463) 276-0526, 4750 West 16th Street, imsmuseum.org/summer-camps/, nslone@ imsmuseum.org

Dates: June 8-12: Robo Racers | June 22-26: Racing Careers | July 13-17: Art in Racing / Hours: 9 am - 3 pm Monday-Friday Ages: Robo Racers: 5th-8th graders | Racing Careers: 5th-8th graders | Art in Racing: 4th-6th graders

Indianapolis School of Ballet's Ballet & Art Camp

Step into a world of enchantment this summer at the Indianapolis School of Ballet! We are thrilled to announce that registration is now officially open for our 2026 Ballet & Art Summer Camps, themed around the timeless classic, The Sleeping Beauty. Designed to spark imagination and build confidence, these camps offer a unique blend of high-quality dance instruction and creative hands-on artistry in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. (317) 955-7525, admin@indyballet.org, 502 North Capitol Avenue, Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46204, indyballet.org

Dates: July 20 - 24, 2026 / Hours: 9:30am4:30pm or 9am-12pm / Ages: Full-Day: 7-10 years | Half-Day: 5-6 years

Indy Art Center Make it a picture perfect summer at Indy’s most creative summer camps! Young artists, creative teens, or camps the whole family can enjoy together, the Indy Art Center has something for Everybody! Find more than 100 options for fun at 2 locations Broad Ripple + Fishers. Tuition Assistance and Payment Plans are available. Sign Up Today! (317) 255-2464, 820 E 67th St, Indianapolis, In 46220, indyartcenter.org/camps/, camps@ IndyArtCenter.org

Dates: Weekly June 8 - July 24 / Hours: Morning and Afternoon Camps / Ages: 4-18

International School of Indiana Lower School summer camps will include Language Summer Camps in French, Mandarin, Spanish, and Arabic, held in partnership with the Indiana University Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies, Amazing Athletes camp, and Enrichment camps. Upper School camps will include athletic programming and Inspirit AI Program, held in partnership with graduate students from Stanford and MIT. (317) 923-1951, 4330 North Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46208, isind.org/summer, info@isind.org

Dates: Camps run weekly from June 8th to August 3rd / Hours: 8 AM to 3 PM | Extended Care Available / Ages: 3 year olds through High School

Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana Dance with MYB this summer! Bursting with imagination and fun, our half-day camps for ages 3-6 feature themes like Under the Sea, Once Upon a Fairytale, and Nutcracker in July! Dancers learn about famous ballets, their music, and the characters and movements that bring them to life on stage! Each camp includes crafts, costume fun, and a final performance for family & friends. Full-day Junior Summer Intensive (ages 7-11) & Senior Summer Intensive (ages 12+) are also offered for more advanced dancers. my-ballet.org, (317)-798-2133, 6210 Technology Centre Dr., Suite 200, Zionsville Dates: June 16-July 23

Park Tudor School Summer

Experience Park Tudor School invites all central Indiana students ages 3-14 to attend its Summer Experience. We have camps for preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, and middle school. In keeping with the mission of Park Tudor School, you will find our summer programs offer small class sizes and varied experiences that will foster creativity and a joy for learning. Whether it's

academics, enrichment, STEM, performing arts, athletics, Spanish, or more, you'll find the perfect summer camps for your child at Park Tudor. Experience summer at Park Tudor and discover the magic that happens when summer fun meets great teaching! 7200 North College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46240; (317) 415-2898; rdabertin@ parktudor.org; parktudor.org/summer

Dates: June 1 - July 24 (no camps on June 19 or the week of June 29 - July 3) / Hours: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm (student drop off begins at 8:30 am); 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm; (student drop off begins at 12:30pm); or full day 9:00am- 4:00pm / Ages: 3-14

Peace Camps Weeklong camps at Peace Learning Center offer Kindergarteners to 2nd graders, 3rd to 5th graders, middle schoolers, and high schoolers opportunities to discover what it means to be a true leader and a peacemaker while having fun and making friends in beautiful Eagle Creek Park. (317) 327-7144, 6040 DeLong Road, Indianapolis, peacelearningcenter.org

Camp Dates: June and July / Ages: 5-16

React Summer Camp Whether you’re a first timer or a seasoned pro, you can have fun this summer onstage or off with React! Create and perform familiar tales or devise new adventures at our premier immersive sleep away camps! Grow your confidence and have a blast at any of our theatrical experiences! 317-416-3789, 401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, IN 46204, reactclasses.org, Ryan@reactclasses.org

Dates: June-July / Ages: Grades K-12

Sullivan Munce Summer art camps for children ages 7-17! All-day and half-day youth art camps include clay; art/clay combo. (2D art projects half of the day and the other half of the day will be spent learning clay hand building and wheel throwing techniques); art/drama combo (art projects early part of day and drama in the afternoon) and art all day. Teen camps include Ceramics, Teen Design Camp: Mixed Media, and Teen Design Camp: Fiber Arts. All-day campers will enjoy an hour of lunch and recess at a local park or on our grounds each day. Half-day campers will enjoy a provided snack. 205-225 West Hawthorne Street, Zionsville, IN 46077, (317) 873-4900,sullivanmunce.org/camps.html

Camps Dates: June 8, 2026-July 31, 2026

Summer of Fun Camp at the Indianapolis Healthplex Every week unfolds a new chapter of

excitement and exploration! Our weekly themed summer camp program is a thrilling journey that combines outdoor adventures, sports, educational experiences, and so much more. The Indianapolis Healthplex is dedicated to providing a summer experience that is not only entertaining but also enriching. Join us for a season of adventure, friendship, and discovery. (317) 920- 7400, twatkins@indianapolis healthplex.com, 3660 Guion Rd, Indianapolis, IN, indianapolishealthplex.com

Dates: June 1st - July 31st (Weekly Registration Deadline is the prior Friday) / Hours: 8am-5pm / Ages: 7-12 (Jr Camp Available for Ages 5-6)

Summer Stock Stage Summer Stock Stage’s Summer Academy is a full-day musical theatre camp on the campus of Butler University for students entering grades 3–9. Young performers build skills in acting, singing, and dancing with professional teaching artists, culminating in a fully staged junior musical performance for family and friends. (908) 216-4475, 610 W 46th St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, summerstockstage.com, info@ summerstockstage.com

Dates: June 1-13, June 15-26, June 29-July 11 / Hours: 9a-4p / Ages: Students entering grades 3-9

Sycamore

Summer Programs

Our summer program offerings are designed to help students discover and explore new topics and interests, and build confidence and creativity. With the instruction of many Sycamore faculty and staff members, as well as our trusted community partners, students will grow, learn, and have an awesome time during camps and classes. 1750 West 64th Street, sycamoreschool.org/ summerprograms, kaylor.jeremy@ sycamoreschool.org, 317.202.2529 Camp Dates: June 8 - July 31, 2026 / Hours: 8:30am - 4:00pm / Ages: Age 3 - 8th Grade

YMCA of Greater Indianapolis YMCA Summer Day Camp is a space that allows children to grow personally and explore the world around them in a safe and exciting environment. In today’s world filled with screens and busy schedules, the YMCA takes us back to what is really important in childhood- playing outside, making new friends, and stepping outside of your comfort zone to try things you’ve never tried before. With 15 convenient locations across Greater Indianapolis, there’s a Y camp for you. (317) 266-9622, INDYMCA.org/ SummerCamp, Various Locations Dates: June - Aug; Varies by location / Hours: 6:30am-6:00pm / Ages: 5-15

Indiana Medical History Museum

Littles can learn about modern medicine in its historic location.

ne of Indiana’s most famous facilities, Central Indiana Hospital, opened its doors in 1848. The 160acre facility, located on Indianapolis’s west side, was more commonly referred to as the “Indiana Hospital for the Insane” when it was operational and treating patients.

In the present day, the facility has reopened and is now home to the Indiana Medical History Museum, and teaches generations to come about the city’s rich medical history and role in the Circle City.

In 1896, another infamous Indiana facility was founded on the grounds of the hospital: the Pathological Department of Central State Hospital. It housed a 150-seat teaching amphitheater, bacteriological and chemical research facilities, and the hospital’s morgue.

“We opened as a cutting-edge laboratory in 1896, and it got national attention for how modern it was,” says Sarah Halter, executive committee of the Indiana Medical History Museum. “It was one of only a couple pathology labs in the United States at the time. It was the first to really dedicate this kind of research to finding causes and treatment for mental diseases.”

WORDS BY SAMANTHA KUPIAINEN

Throughout the years, the hospital was plagued with scandals regarding patient abuse. The Pathological Department, highly regarded for its abilities, conducted research for a variety of diagnoses, including hysteria, dementia and alcoholism. The hospital ultimately closed due to ongoing scandals.

The hospital was given a new purpose and meaning when it reopened as the Indiana Medical History Museum in 1984. Since opening, the museum has worked to educate future generations about the beginnings of scientific psychiatry and modern medicine. Additionally, the Old Pathology Building is the oldest surviving pathology facility in the nation.

“Visitors tell us all the time that they feel like they're stepping back in time when they come into the building,” Halter says.

The Indiana Medical History Museum currently offers tours by appointment only. Those interested in scheduling a tour can visit imhm.org/visit. The standard tour takes you through the Old Pathology Building, a two-story facility

that’s on the National Register of Historic Places.

The tour length varies depending on what visitors wish to see and learn about, but a one-hour tour is recommended for young children.

“We can cater tours to younger students,” Halter says. “We get summer camps, as well. We can tailor tours to the younger kids and focus on things that are more within their interest, and in line with what they’re learning in school at particular ages.”

All tours of the Indiana Medical History Museum are by appointment only. Admission fees are $10 per adult, $9 for seniors 65 and up, $7 for university or trade students, and $5 for those under 18 years.

Fuel the Fun with Winners Drink Milk

Dairy from Indiana farms helps power your family's most active season yet.

ay in Indiana is magic. Soccer cleats are muddy, baseball diamonds are busy, and sunscreen is flying off store shelves. And right in the middle of it all, at one of the world's most iconic sporting events, an Indiana dairy farmer hands a cold bottle of milk to the winner of the Indianapolis 500.

It's not a coincidence. It's a tradition nearly 90 years in the making, and it's rooted in something Indiana farm families have known for generations. Milk fuels winners!

For the American Dairy Association Indiana (ADAI), that message isn't just for race day. It's for every spring soccer Saturday, every post-practice parking lot moment, and every family picnic that stretches into a golden evening. This May, as your family shifts into full activity mode, dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are some of the simplest, most nutrient dense ingredients in your kitchen. Each serving gets you closer to meeting the recommendation of 3 servings per day for those 9+ years old (aim for 2 ½ servings for kids 4-8 years old and 2 servings for 2–3-year-olds). For information about dairy nutrition and what counts as a full serving, visit winnersdrink milk.com/sustainablenutrition/all-about-milk/

Your Secret Weapon After Practice: Milk

Here's something that might surprise you: one of the best post-workout recovery drinks for your young athlete isn't a sports drink with a neon label, it’s milk; particularly chocolate milk.

No matter which milk your family reaches for — whole, 2%, skim, or lactose-free — that 8-ounce glass delivers 13 essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and 8 grams of complete protein working together to rebuild muscle, replace fluids, and build bones for a lifetime of activity. And if your kids are reaching for chocolate milk after practice, that's a win too. Those added carbohydrates are exactly what their bodies need to refuel energy stores after a busy day of practice and play.

Kids who drink milk, including chocolate milk, have higher overall nutrient intakes than

kids who don't. And when chocolate milk is available at school, students drink more milk altogether. Did you know that flavored milk in schools follows strict guidelines that limit the total added sugar to no more than 10 grams per 8oz serving? That's a win any parent can get behind.

Spring sports snack ideas featuring chocolate milk:

• No prep. Just Pour: Hand your athlete an ice-cold bottle of chocolate milk after a game or practice. Every year at the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, runners and walkers make a beeline for the chocolate milk booth — many even say that they participate just for the chocolate milk! That kind of post-activity ritual is worth starting at home too.

• Smoothie Upgrade: Blend chocolate milk with a frozen banana and a spoonful of peanut butter for a recovery smoothie that feels like a treat.

• Cooler Staple: Freeze individual chocolate milk cartons the night before — they'll thaw perfectly by halftime and double as an ice pack.

Take It Outside: Dairy-Powered Picnic Ideas

Spring is picnic season, and Indiana dairy farms make it delicious. Cheese and yogurt are nutritional powerhouses that travel well, satisfy hungry families, and make outdoor eating feel like a celebration.

When you're building your picnic basket this May, think of Indiana cheese as your MVP. And if you're not sure where to start, ADAI's official Indiana Cheese Guide is a fantastic resource for discovering locally made varieties worth trying. A simple spread of sliced cheese, whole grain crackers, fresh fruit, and veggies covers protein, calcium, and staying power with no cooking required. Cheese boards have had a moment in recent years for good reason as they are endlessly customizable, genuinely crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to pull together.

For yogurt, think beyond breakfast. Greek yogurt-based dips pair beautifully with vegetables and pita, and individual cups of yogurt are perfect grab-andgo fuel for kids between activities. Yogurt parfaits layered

with granola and spring berries are the kind of thing kids will get excited about eating.

Easy dairy-forward picnic concepts:

• A cheese and fruit board built around Indiana-made varieties

• Greek yogurt veggie dip with colorful vegetables and whole grain crackers

• Yogurt parfait cups prepped the night before — layered and lidded, ready to grab

• String cheese and fresh fruit as the ultimate no-fuss

The goal is simple: real food, real nutrients, real enjoyment. Indiana dairy farms make all that possible.

THE

SIDEBAR THAT'S WORTH THE READ: INDY 500 AND THE MILK TRADITION

At Indy, Winners Drink Milk

In 1936, Louis Meyer won his third Indianapolis 500® and asked for a glass of buttermilk in Victory Lane. A photographer caught the moment, and without anyone fully planning it, one of sports' greatest traditions was born.

Today, the Indy 500® Bottle of Milk has been called the "Sports World's Coolest Prize" by Sports Illustrated — ahead of the Heisman Trophy, the Masters' Green Jacket, and the Stanley Cup.

What makes it uniquely Indiana? Each year, two Indiana dairy farmers — one a Rookie, one a Veteran — carry the milk to Victory Lane and ceremoniously hand it to the winning driver. It's a moment that airs worldwide and puts Hoosier farm families on a global stage.

And here's a fun detail your kids will love. Before the race, drivers get to choose their milk preference between whole, 2%, or fat-free. The winning driver's choice is pre-selected and waiting in Victory Lane, cold and ready, the moment they cross the finish line.

It's tradition, nutrition, and pure Indiana pride — all in one iconic bottle.

Visit WinnersDrinkMilk.com to learn more about the history and the Indiana farmers behind the tradition.

Indy 500 Family Fun

Start your engines! Here’s how to celebrate the Indy 500 with your family all month long.

t’s that time of year again! The Indianapolis 500 returns for its 110th running, and the excitement is already in high gear. In Indy, May isn’t just a month — it’s a full-on celebration.

From can’t-miss events to family-friendly fun, everything builds toward race day on Sunday, May 24. Here are some of the best ways to join the action before the green flag drops.

500 Festival Kickoff to May

April 29 | Monument Circle 500festival.com

The countdown to the India napolis 500 is on! This event is packed full of festivities, and you can also pick up prizes from exhibitors, take photos with the 2026 500 Festival Cars, and much more.

500 Festival MiniMarathon Expo

April 30-May 1 | Indiana Convention Center indymini.com

An exciting start to Mini-Marathon weekend in Indianapolis! The Mini-Marathon Expo features interactive activities and exhibitors for all ages. The Expo is free and open to the public and a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy the excitement of the Mini-Marathon.

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

500 Festival Mini-Marathon

May 2 | Downtown Indianapolis indymini.com

More than 20,000 participants will take over the streets of downtown Indianapolis for The Greatest Spectacle in Running - the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.

500 Festival Kids Day

May 9 | Downtown Indy 500festival.com

Indiana’s largest free outdoor celebration designed exclusively for kids! Enjoy interactive, educational displays in a carnival atmosphere – giving children a day full of fun, learning and activity for every interest and ability!

500 Festival Rookie Run

May 9 | Downtown Indy 500festival.com

Taking place on Kids Day, this non-competitive fun run allows children ages 3-10 the fun opportunity to get active and experience the excitement of a running event, complete with a start and finish line production, cheering section, participant bib and finisher medal.

Indy 500 Practice

Weekdays, May 12-15 & 18 | Indianapolis Motor Speedway indianapolismotor speedway.com

The first taste of the Indianapolis 500 begins with practice. These full afternoon practice sessions Tuesday-Friday help the teams and drivers prepare for the

Indianapolis 500, while fans get a first look at their favorite cars, drivers and race in a relaxed atmosphere.

500 Festival Parade

May 23, 11:45 a.m. | Downtown Indianapolis 500festival.com/parade

More than 200,000 people will line the streets of downtown Indianapolis to experience the larger-than-life floats, giant helium balloons, celebrities and dignitaries, award-winning bands, and all of the drivers competing in the Indy 500.

Music, Family & Fun at Indy Parks

v arks are the perfect place to make memories that will last a lifetime! Indy Parks is excited to announce the 2026 Free Summer Concert Series, which will bring dozens of free, family-friendly events across the city, including Eagle Creek Beach, the Taggart Memorial Amphitheater at Riverside Park, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Broad Ripple Park, Watkins Park, and the McAllister Memorial Amphitheater at Garfield Park.

Set up lawn chairs or picnic blankets, kick back, and tune in to local jazz, folk, indie, blues, and everything in between. These free concerts invite all ages to enjoy. Visit Eagle Creek Beach and ask about renting a kayak or canoe to experience concerts from the reservoir at sunset. This year we’re put together a brand-

new kids concert series in addition to our allages offerings!

Please visit parks.indy.gov/ free-concert-series to view the full concert schedule. We hope to welcome you soon to fill your summer with music and joy!

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Adventurous Fun for Families

Destinations around the Midwest that turn an ordinary trip into an unforgettable adventure.

s your family looking for a little adrenaline? The Midwest is packed with some seriously fun ways to have an adventurously good time. From spelunking in caves and ziplining around a treetop canopy, to riding ATVs and hiking, these bucket-list adventures are calling your name this summer.

Caves and Caverns

With more than two miles of passageways that range in depth from 30 feet to 103 feet, Ohio Caverns in West Liberty is the state’s largest cavern. The cavern is open in all weather, and stays a constant and cool 54 degrees all year long. Walking tours typically take about an hour, so bring your walking shoes, a sweater, and your camera to take photos of the wonderful world of underground beauty that awaits you.

Explore an underground world filled with waterfalls and rock formations at Indiana Caverns in Corydon, which boasts the longest cave in the state. Make your way 110 feet downhill to the underground river and back up again, and then enjoy the cavern’s other attractions, including a single rail zip coaster, gemstone mining and an escape room.

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Zip-lining

Located in Indiana cave country in Mauckport, Squire Boone Caverns Zipline Adventures has the longest zip line in the region, with two different zipline courses. The Canopy Tour, for ages 7 and older, is great for families and will take you zipping through tree-top canopies and above scenic forest ravines. The Long Course Canopy Tour is for ages 10 and up, and is perfect for thrill-seekers who want more time on the ropes (and more time up in the air!). After zipping around, an underground tour of the caves at Squire Boone is a must.

Featuring six underground zip lines in a man-made cave, Mega Zips in Louisville, Kentucky, boasts the distinction as the world’s only fully underground zip-line course. With over 17 miles of underground passageways beneath the city, families can challenge each other to zip racing, or test their balance and skill across two challenging bridges.

ATVs and UTVs

Riding an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) or UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) is a fun and adventurous way to explore the outdoors. In Indiana, off-road parks like Badlands Off Road Park in Attica and Haspin Acres in Laurel offer hundreds of acres of rugged terrain, like sand dunes, trails, mud pits, and more, all designed for riders of every skill level. In Ohio, Wayne National Forest has the largest off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail system in the state. Wind your way through the Appalachian foothills on four different designated trail systems.

Hiking and Exploring

From forests and parks to rivers and lakes, the Midwest is at its best (and most scenic) when viewed on foot.

Take a hike along a portion of the Ice Age Trail, a 1000-mile footpath that is contained entirely within the state of Wisconsin. The Ice Age Trail — which is one of only 11 National Scenic Trails in the United States — is the perfect platform for day hikes and enjoying a picnic in the great outdoors, or more intensive backpacking and camping adventures.

In northern Kentucky, Big Bone Lick State Park is an 813-acre historic park with plenty to do for adventurous families. You will find many trails for hiking and exploring, as well as Big Bone Lick Lake, where you can fish from one of the piers or rent a boat and enjoy an afternoon on the water. The park also has a museum featuring exhibits on the history of the area, including the Ice Age and the bison that used to roam the region, and large skeletons of prehistoric animals. The Bison Trail leads to a large open field where visitors can see a real herd of bison.

STUDENTS WHO SHINE

WE ASKED SEVERAL AREA SCHOOLS TO SHARE A STUDENT WHO EXEMPLIFIES THEIR SCHOOL'S VALUES, AND THEY ROSE TO THE CHALLENGE.

Nolan McCracken – Senior, Cathedral High School

WHAT SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I am most proud of completing my AP Research project. While it was not tied to a specific award, it deepened my interdisciplinary understanding of science and mathematics and strengthened my curiosity, showing me both how much I’ve learned and how much more there is to explore.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

After high school, I plan to attend college and major in physics. I am also considering pursuing additional studies in mathematics and possibly biochemistry. While I have not finalized a specific school, I am excited to continue exploring and expanding my academic interests.

HOW HAS CATHDRAL PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE?

Cathedral has prepared me for the future through both its opportunities and its community. My teachers and peers have encouraged me not only to succeed, but to ask questions, think critically, and challenge myself. These experiences have helped me grow academically and personally.

Kamau Grizzle – 7th Grade, The Sycamore School

WHAT SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I am most proud of creating a National History Day project about Jamaican Independence in 6th grade. My dad was born and raised in Jamaica, and it is an important part of my heritage. The project connected me to my ancestors.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

After high school, I plan to play professional soccer. I started playing soccer when I was four. I would also like to become an architectural designer. I hope that one day I’ll be able to create the blueprints for the masterpieces that I love seeing.

HOW HAS THE SYCAMORE SCHOOL PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE?

Sycamore pushed me to be a better critical thinker, problem solver, and more cultured person. A humanities curriculum helped me think deeply and outside the box. Math and science have enhanced my ability to study. Band increased my love of percussion.

Scarlett Parcell – 8th Grade, The Orchard School

WHAT SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

In seventh grade, I joined the basketball team with zero experience. This year, I worked extremely hard and won the Fred G. Appel Award. This award wasn't necessarily for my basketball skills, but for my teamwork, sportsmanship, and how much I contributed to the team.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER MIDDLE SCHOOL?

After middle school, I will be attending Park Tudor High School. I hope to continue pursuing my interest in music while also having the opportunity to learn more about the STEM field. I'm very excited for new opportunities to discover what I’m interested in.

HOW HAS ORCHARD SCHOOL PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE?

The teachers at Orchard have prepared me in many ways. They have not only prepared me academically, but have also made me a more compassionate person. They have taught me how to handle stressful situations, how to be the best learner possible, and important leadership skills.

Vyas – Senior, The International School of Indiana

WHAT SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I am proudest of my leadership in Model United Nations. In MUN, I learned valuable skills of critical thinking, collaboration and awareness of global issues. My experiences in MUN made me a better student and a more open-minded person.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

After high school, I will attend the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University in Bloomington, where I will pursue a Business Exploratory major. Gaining a general understanding of business will help me find a more specific major to pursue.

HOW HAS ISI PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE?

ISI has prepared me in critical thinking and writing. Because of the IB program, my school has demanded in-depth, analytical writing, as well as nuanced, non-biased ways of thinking that will be extremely helpful in college.

Jaxden Wims – Senior, Lawrence North High School

WHAT SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

Earning the privilege to play baseball at the college level is a great achievement, but what makes me most proud is being a role model for younger players to look up to and being a player the coaches can count on to represent the team well.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

I plan to attend Huntington University, where I will play baseball and study computer science with a focus on cybersecurity. I plan to have a career helping individuals and organizations in a continuously advancing technological society.

HOW HAS LAWRENCE NORTH PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE?

In a community as diverse at Lawrence North, I learned how to work with people from different backgrounds, lead through challenges, and to serve others. These experiences have prepared me for the next level in academics, athletics, and in life.

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Evan Connors – Senior, Lawrence Central High School

WHAT SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I am most proud of being an Academic Top 30 and Distinguished Scholar in the Class of 2026 while participating in two sports.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

I plan to attend Loyola University in Chicago to study Data Science and play club baseball.

HOW HAS LAWRENCE CENTRAL PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE?

I have had amazing teachers including Mr. Joseph Dodridge and Mrs. Rachel Anderson who pushed me to be a better student in AP Calculus. The diverse community here at Lawrence Central has helped me prepare for the world after high school.

Sophie Renaud – 8th Grade, St. Richard's Episcopal School

WHAT SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

The school achievement that I am most proud of is my GAIM 2023 Innovator Distinction award for the best scoring St. Richards group in the annual Girls’ Adventures in Math Competition. I am proud because I put a lot of effort and dedication.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER MIDDLE SCHOOL?

My plans after middle school are to attend a top boarding school in New Hampshire named Phillips Exeter Academy. In this academy, I plan to flourish my education, while also pursuing my interests in the lines of biology and visual arts.

HOW HAS ST. RICHARD'S PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE?

St. Richard’s has prepared me for my future by opening me to opportunities such as traveling to Italy, participating in student government, attending math competitions, and performing in a musical. St. Richard's has positively impacted my character.

Robyn Pate – Senior, Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School

WHAT SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I am most proud of maintaining above a 4.0 GPA throughout my four years. It took a lot of discipline, hard work, and dedication to school. I am proud of myself for staying with it.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR HIGH SCHOOL?

I plan on attending Alabama A&M University with a major in psychology and a minor in sociology. I plan on being on the pre-med track with aspirations to become a pediatrician.

HOW HAS BREBEUF PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE?

It has prepared me for future networking with diverse communities of people. It has also taught me how to effectively manage my time. Lastly, it has prepared me for trying things that I am not used to and stepping outside of my comfort zone.

SCHOOL + EDUCATION GUIDE

CARMEL

Starting Line Preschool, The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning! Our strong academic-based curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while discovering learning is fun! All of our classes focus on an introduction to colors, number and letters with exciting art and science projects. Math, social studies and sight words are taught in the older classes.Develop Social Awareness & Friendships, Build Confidence and Master Academic Skills for Kinder- garten. 110 Third Ave NE, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Diane Atkins, Phone: (317) 753-9397, Email: dkatkins22@ msn.com, startinglinepreschool.com

DOWNTOWN

IU Indianapolis Center for Young Children offers childcare and early childhood education for children ages six weeks to five years old and believes children learn through play, experiences, and interaction with their environment and peers. 321 Limestone St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, Phone: (317) 274- 3508, Childcare.indianapolis.iu.edu

St. Richards Episcopal School education provides students aged 3 through grade 8, a transformational experience through our engaging and challenging curriculum while developing global citizens who love learning, embrace diversity and live Episcopal values. Students thrive with small class sizes and personal attention from outstanding faculty as they learn knowledge and values for a lifetime. 33 East 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Phone: (317) 926-0425, Contact: Kim Napier, Director of Admissions, Email: knapier@ sresdragons.org, sresdragons.org

The Oaks Academy is a Christ-centered school (Pre-K through 8th grade) that exists to provide a rich, classical education to children of diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds, preparing them to succeed in a rigorous secondary educational program and to demonstrate spiritual, social and emotional maturity. Multiple locations; Contact: Jody Barbour, Phone: 317-6100880; Email: admissons@theoaksacademy. org; theoaksacademy.org

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTH

Beth – El Zedeck Early Childhood Center, where we believe in the power of play, including risky play! We strive to achieve and implement the most developmentally appropriate practices to help our youngest students learn and be successful in their early education. We achieve that by implementing a play based curriculum and providing lots of love and care!. Cost/Tuition: Please call or email for full brochure. Hours/Dates: Flexible Hours. Full Time/Part-Time available. Ages/Grades: 12 months old+, 18 months old+, 2s+, 3s+, 4s+, PreKindergarten (3 day or 5 day option) Before/After School Care: Before and After School Care. Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pick up anytime up until 6:00pm/5:30 pm on Fridays. 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: ECC Office, Phone: (317) 259-6854, Fax: 317-2596849 or Email: cfuller@bez613.org

Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool is a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values and learning through play. It is designed to offer children ages 9 months to 5 years a positive and developmentally appropriate first school experience in the care of experienced and loving caregivers. We play and learn! Classes are offered Tuesday through Friday from 9 am to 2:30 pm during the school year. We also offer both a Fall and Spring soccer league for young children ages 3-8. Please call, e-mail or visit our website for further information and registration forms. 5500 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Phone: (317) 253-0472, cdi@meridianstreet.org, meridianstreet.org

International School of Indiana is a non-profit, independent school that offers the International Baccalaureate curriculum to all preschool through grade 12 students on our newly unified campus. With lessons taught in English, French, Mandarin, and Spanish, our curriculum helps students excel academically while learning to become responsible citizens and effective leaders. ISI also offers a wide range of sports, clubs, and arts programs for students of all ages. High school students participate in a comprehensive four-year college counseling program, leading to a 100% college acceptance rate. 4330 N. Michigan Rd.; Phone: (317) 923-1951, ext. 334; email: admissions@isind.org; isind.org

The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasizing experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education. Orchard’s diverse community and commitment to multicultural education inspires responsible, global citizenship. Founded in 1922. NAIS, ISACS, NAEYC accredited. 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Jessica Aiyasami, Director of Admissions, Phone: (317) 713-5717, Fax: (317) 254-8454, Email: jaiyasami@orchard.org, orchard.org

Sycamore School, Indiana's only accredited, independent, private school for Preschool - 8th grade gifted students, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, physical education, technology, extensive field trips, athletics, financial aid, and after school activities are offered. 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Duane Emery, Director of Enrollment Management, Phone: (317) 202-2500, Email: emery.duane@ sycamoreschool.org, sycamoreschool.org

INDIANAPOLIS –NORTHEAST

MSD of Lawrence Township is located in the northeast corner of Indianapolis, Lawrence is a residential suburban community of 95,000+ and home to Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park and Geist Reservoir. With families from widely diverse cultural, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds, the Lawrence community values and embraces diversity as one of its greatest strengths. Lawrence Township strives to be the district of destination, a reputation built over the years based on the district's awardwinning staff, accomplished administrators, high-achieving students, supportive community, and innovative educational programs. 5720 Wheeler Road, Indianapolis, IN 46216; Phone: (317) 423-8200; Email: danaaltemeyer@msdlt.k12.in.us, LTschools.org

Heritage Christian School desires to partner with Christian families to provide a Christ-centered education with strong, college-prep academics and intentional discipleship of preschool – 12th-grade students. Our extraordinary teachers, coaches, and staff are committed to creating a secure and loving learning community where a student’s educational

experiences prepare and equip them for wherever the Lord leads them. 6401 E. 75th Street, Indianapolis, (317) 849-3441, heritagechristian.net

INDIANAPOLIS – SOUTH

Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy, the elementary school program of Beech Tree House Center for Child Development, Inc., promotes the emotional, physical, intellectual, social, and spiritual development of each child. Our exceptional teaching staff is dedicated to presenting a challenging and enthusiastic learning environment that recognizes each unique learner. With a dedication to personal excellence, all members of our school family are challenged to practice and exhibit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in daily life. State-accredited with exemplary ratings. Preschool - Fifth Grade, cwpsa.com / 7850 South Emerson Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46237 / (317) 882-8636 / Email: kmeguschar@cwpsa.com

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

St.

Mary’s Early Childhood Center

The Preschool Program at St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center is Reggio-inspired, nationally accredited, state licensed and Level 4 on Indiana’s quality rating scale. For over 60 years, St. Mary’s has provided the highestquality preschool experiences that will transition into a foundation for lifelong success. Call or click today to enroll for the 2024 – 2025 school year! NEW! Broad Ripple: 4186 Broadway St, Indianapolis, IN 46205; Downtown: 901 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St, Indianapolis, IN 46202; Fort Harrison: 9230 Hawkins Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46216, (317) 635-1491, stmarysecc.org, info@ stmarysecc.org

SPECIAL NEEDS

Easterseals Crossroads offers comprehensive disability services for people of all ages. Early Intervention, Autism Services, PT, OT, Speech Therapy, Feeding/ Swallowing issues, Augmentative Comm-unication, Assistive Technology, Multi-sensory Therapy Rooms, Summer Camps, Life/ Social Skills Groups, Deaf Community Services, Autism Family Resource Center. 4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Phone: (317) 466-1000, Email: info@ easterseals crossroads.org, eastersealscrossroads.org

Interested in being in our monthly guide? Email Becca@indyschild.com for more details.

May 2026 THINGS TO DO

FRI 01

Baby & Toddler Prom Babies, toddlers and their caregivers are invited to come dressed up to dance the hour away! There will be music, dancing and plenty of adorable photo opportunities for a magical first prom.

Location: Fort Ben Branch Library, Time: 11 am, indypl.org *F

Pajama-Rama Put on your cutest pair of pajamas, grab your favorite teddy bear, pack up a blanket, and enjoy a fun program for toddlers and preschoolers. Location: Cool Creek Nature Center, Time: 7-7:45 pm, hamiltoncounty.in.gov *F

FRI 01 – SUN 03

The Phantom Tollbooth

A children’s classic by Norton Jester brought to life on stage! This play tells the story of Milo, a bored boy who finds a magic tollbooth in his room. Also May 8-10. Location: Hendricks Live, hendrickslive.org

SAT 02

500 Festival Mini-Marathon

30,000+ runners, joggers, walkers, and wheelchair participants will take over the streets of downtown Indianapolis for The Greatest Spectacle in Running

— the Indy Mini. Location: West St near JW Marriott, Time: 7 am-2 pm, indymini. com

Brick Street Market Stroll

through arts, crafts and food booths set up on Zionsville’s historic brick Main Street, while browsing unique Village shops and restaurants.

Location: Main Street Downtown Zionsville, Time: 10 am-4 pm, zionsvillechamber.org

Fiesta on the Rails An all-ages Cinco de Mayo celebration aboard vintage train cars! The experience combines lively music and décor with interactive fun: play Lotería with small prizes, make a quick papel picado banner to take home, and enjoy aguas frescas and a sweet treat as the train rolls through Hamilton County.

Location: Nickel Plate Express, nickelplateexpress.com

Indianapolis Chinese Orchestra Spring Concert

Enjoy traditional and contemporary Chinese music blended with familiar American music classics. Location: Fishers Library, Time: 2 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org *F

One Piece: Music Symphony Immerse yourself in the magic of a full orchestra as the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra performs One Piece’s iconic music live on stage. Watch the greatest moments from one of the most popular anime stories come to life on screen. Location: Hilbert Circle Theatre, Time: 7:30 pm, indianapolissymphony.org

Riley Wrangler’s Arts and Crafts Fair More than 100 vendors selling custom jewelry, woodcrafts, floral arrangements, quilts, hand-sewn items, American doll clothes, oil paintings and more, plus food vendors and live entertainment. Location: Hancock County 4-H Fairgrounds, rileywranglers.org

SAT

02

– SUN 03

Bird Fest Celebrate all the birding opportunities Eagle Creek Park has to offer during the height of migration season. There will be guided hikes, workshops, activities, adaptive/ inclusive outings, and various paid birding adventures. No birding experience required! Location: Eagle Creek, indyparks.org *F

TUES-SUN, MAY 5-10

DISNEY'S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST at the Old National Centre

Little Mermaid: The Magic of the Sea A reimagined ballet that explores themes of bravery, kindness and being true to yourself, told through music, movement and a joyful underwater finale that’s enchanting and fun for the whole family. Location: The Basile Theatre at the Athenaeum, balletinitiative.org

SUN 03

Japan Spring Fest Celebrate the spring season and all things Japan! Sample tasty Japanese foods, enjoy local Japanese cultural performances, take photos with cosplayers, and experience Japan through various family-friendly activities. Location: Japanese Gardens at Carmel City Hall, Time: 12-5 pm, carmel.in.gov

Sensory-friendly Play @ Urban Air The first Sunday of each month is an event specifically designed for kids with sensory processing difficulties to enjoy time at the park without loud music and flashing lights. Location: Urban Air Noblesville, Time: 9-11 am, urbanair.com *SN

Sensory Sensitive Sundays @ Chuck E. Cheese’s The first Sunday of the month, families can enjoy a quieter dining and entertainment environment, dimmed lighting, and an arcade experience that is more accommodating for those with sensory sensitivities. The sensory-friendly events are staffed by trained and caring employees who ensure that each guest has a safe, fun-filled visit.Location: Chuck E. Cheese’s, Time: 9-11 am, chuckecheese. com *SN

MON 04

Music and Movement Sing, move and enjoy together! This interactive storytime focuses on music and early literacy skills for young children and their caregivers. Location: Plainfield Library, Time: 10 am, plainfieldlibrary.net *F

Pajama Storytime Young children and their caregivers are invited for stories, songs and fun. Stay after for some literacy activities and play time. Location: Lawrence Branch, Time: 6:30 pm, indypl.org *F

TUES 05

Bilingual Storytime Babies, toddlers and caregivers will enjoy books, songs, and games in this bilingual storytime in English and Spanish! Location: Wayne Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F

Circulating Sound Concert:

The Project Enjoy a concert featuring The Project, part of CRP Jazz. Location: West Perry Branch Library, Time: 5:30 pm, indypl.org *F

Free Movie Series: High School Musical 3 As seniors in high school, Troy and Gabriella struggle with the idea of being separated from one another as college approaches. Along with the rest of the Wildcats, they stage a spring musical to address their experiences, hopes and fears about their future. Location: Schrott Center for the Arts, Time: 7 pm, butlerartscenter.org *F

TUES 05 – SUN 10

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

A breathtaking musical filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love. This enchanting and timeless tale has been brought to life like never before, with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. Location: Old National Centre, indianapolis.broadway.com

WED 06

Midtown Block Party

A pre-summer kick off event with a family-friendly focus. The event is free and open to the public and includes a movie, music, games, food, activities and more! Location: Midtown Plaza

Carmel, Time: 2-6 pm, midtownplazacarmel.com *F

Play & Learn with

Gymboree Toddlers are exposed to sensory play, songs, and the beginnings of social play in this program with an expert from Gymboree! Ages 18-36 months.

Location: Franklin Road Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F

Small Wonders: Superhero

Science Children will investigate different superpowers and become their own hero. Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am, indianamuseum. org

THURS 07

First Thursday Night @ The Children’s Museum On the first Thursday of every month, admission is just $6 per person!

Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 4-8 pm, childrensmuseum.org

Mom & Me Cookie

Decorating Come ready to laugh, decorate and enjoy a fun-filled time together. You’ll leave with beautiful (and delicious) treats and even better memories. Location: Zionsville COhatch, Time: 6 pm, zionsvillein.myrec.com

Newfields Community Day

Enjoy free admission to Newfields on the first Thursday of the month. Advance ticket is required. Location: Newfields, Time: 11 am-8 pm, discovernewfields.org *F

Stay and Play Young children and their caregivers participate in sensory experiences, STEM activities and even make music in Firefly Landing. Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10:30 am, indianamuseum. org

FRI 08

Paws and Play with IndyHumane Playing is important for kids, and it’s just as important for our pets! Learn how to create a playful, enriching environment at home for your pets. Create an enrichment activity for your pet or donate it to an animal waiting for a home at IndyHumane. Ages 6-12.

Location: West Indianapolis Branch Library, Time: 3 pm, indypl.org *F

SAT 09

500 Festival Kids Day +

Rookie Run Indiana’s largest free outdoor celebration designed exclusively for kids! Enjoy interactive, educational displays in a carnival atmosphere – giving children a day full of fun, learning and activity for every interest and ability! Location: Monument Circle, Time: 11 am-3 pm, 500festival.com *F

Art Fair on the Square Shop from more than four dozen of Indiana’s most talented fine artists selling paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry and more. Location: Noblesville Courthouse Square, Time: 10 am-3 pm, hcaa-in.org *F

Asian Fest Experience Asia's culture, arts, music, henna and food. Attend free health fairs and fun activities for the entire family. Location: Indiana Historical Society, Time: 11 am-4 pm, aaalliance.org *F

Celebrating Her Enjoy a relaxing and comforting celebration of mom. Moms, while you unwind with coffee and treats, your little ones will be able to create a gift of their appreciation. Location: Brownsburg Town Hall, Time: 10:30 am, brownsburgparks.com

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Teddy Bear Concert Young children are invited to move along to live music as they listen to the story of a ladybug’s search through the garden for her own special song. Location: Zionsville Library, Time: 11 am, hmmpl.org *F

NerdFest A festival of nerdy fun for adults, teens and kids! Enjoy workshops, creators, demonstrations, arts and crafts, arcade games, board games, trivia, costumes, giveaways and more. Whether you identify as a nerd or not, come enjoy this day full of fun and fandom. Location: Carmel Clay Public Library, Time: 10 am-4 pm, carmelclaylibrary.org *F

Pokémon GO Community Day Meet local Trainers, catch Pokémon, trade and connect during this casual, all-ages meetup. Location: Noblesville Library, Time: 2-5 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org *F

Star Wars Night @

Indianapolis Indians Victory Field turns into a galaxy far, far away with Star Wars character appearances, music, in-game entertainment and more. Location: Victory Field, Time: 6:35 pm, milb.com/indianapolis

Touch-A-Truck Mooresville

A unique opportunity for children to explore vehicles of all types — public service, emergency utility, construction transportation, delivery, and just plain cool — all in one place! Location: Pioneer Park, Time: 10 am, mooresvillepark.com

Young Explorers: Trains, Planes and Automobiles

Discover the different ways people move from place to place! Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 1-2:30 pm, indianamuseum.org

SUN 10

Mother’s Day Brunch @ Conner Prairie Celebrate that special person in your life! Relax, let Conner Prairie do the cooking, and make the day special with a delicious variety of items to choose from.

Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 10 am & 12:30 p.m., connerprairie.org

Wild Wonders: Birds Explore, discover and imagine with your child in this 90-minute program for kids ages 3-5 and an adult. Play-based activities will help develop your child’s sense of wonder and understanding of the natural world. Location: Indianapolis Zoo, Time: 9:30-11 am, indianapoliszoo.com

MON 11

Arabee Learn & Play A joyful Arabic program introducing 3-5 year olds to Arabic basics through play, songs, crafts and simple vocabulary.

Location: Fishers Library, Time: 10 am, hamiltoneastpl.org *F

Bug Crafts Spring has sprung, and our little buggy friends are waking up or hatching from their eggs! Stop by the Activity Center for some buggy crafts. All materials provided. Ages 4-12. Location: Southeastway Park, Time: 1-4 pm, indyparks.org *F

Little Sprouts: Garden Artists Create colorful masterpieces using leaves, flowers, and nature treasures as we turn the garden into an outdoor art studio! Location: Heritage Trail Park, Time: 10 am, zionsvillein.myrec.com

TUES 12

After School Squad: Race Ramp-Up Calling all kindergarten to 2nd graders! Join us as we celebrate the upcoming Indy 500 with some race-themed fun. Location: Zionsville Library, Time: 4 pm, hmmpl.org *F

Jungle Tales Bring your preschooler to this program with a focus on the natural world. Enjoy a different nature-related story, activity and craft each month. $6; registration required. Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am, garfieldgardensconservatory.org

activities inspired by the game, and team up to complete creative challenges. Location: Fishers Library, Time: 6 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org *F

WED 13

Amazing Artists Create, read and enjoy together! This interactive storytime focuses on art and early literacy skills for young children and their caregivers. Location: PlainfieldGuilford Library, Time: 10 am, plainfieldlibrary.net *F

Family Storytime Families with children of all ages are invited to listen to stories, sing songs and participate in movement activities. Location: Nora Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F

World Cultures Club: New

Zealand Calling all young explorers in grades 3-6! Enjoy an unforgettable journey around the globe. We'll transport you to a new country, unlocking the mysteries of diverse cultures, traditions and histories. Location: Zionsville Library, Time: 4:30 pm, hmmpl.org

THURS 14

Pigeon Playtime Learn about Pigeon Ambassador Albert, who is usually behind-the-scenes at the Ornithology Center. You will get to learn about pigeons while Albert flies and explores freely around the classroom (playtime for him!). Location: Eagle Creek, Time: 3-4 pm, indyparks.org

Preschool Story Hour: The Curious Garden Enjoy a read-aloud and special crafts related to the book. Weather permitting, we will also enjoy a short optional walk outside. Location: Taylor Center of Natural History, Time: 11 am, hamiltoncounty.in.gov

Sensory-friendly Storytime

Everyone is welcome for a joyful, sensory-friendly storytime designed for all ages with Miss Donna. We’ll share songs, stories, and a craft, along with relaxed sensory playtime where all ages can explore at their own pace. Location: Fort Ben Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F *SN

THURS 14 – SAT 16

The Children's Ballet Presents A Royal Visit A charming and imaginative tale of kindness, courage and a little bit of magic. When a struggling orphanage faces closure, hope arrives in the form of an unexpected royal visit. Location: Hendricks Live, hendrickslive.org

FRI

15

After-Hours Laser Tag Party

Join other teens to play laser tag in the library after-hours! While you wait your turn for laser tag, hang out in the TeenZone to play video and board games and eat pizza. Grades 6-12. Location: Noblesville Library, Time: 5:45 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org

Baby Doll Storytime Bring a favorite doll/stuffed animal or use one of theirs. Children will participate in songs, rhymes and stories while interacting with their baby doll. Ages 2-5. Location: Whitestown Library, Time: 10 am, hmmpl.org *F

Garden Storytime Learn about nature through a story. After the reading, children are encouraged to stay and explore the Children’s Garden. Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 10 am, garfieldgardensconservatory. org *F

FRI

15 – SUN 17

Panda Fest One of the biggest outdoor Asian food festivals in the U.S., with experiential activities, tastings,

and market fairs that showcase the vibrant food, art and cultural traditions from Asia. Location: Military Park, pandafests.com

SAT 16

Critter Chat Drop by Blake’s Garden to meet one of our resident critters. Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 2 pm, garfieldgardensconservatory.org *F

The Great Potato Derby of 2026 In honor of the Indy 500, participate in a race of spud proportions! Bring the whole family out to decorate your team's potato, and let those spuds rip down the ramp. Location: Noblesville Library, Time: 2 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org

Indiana Peony Festival Enjoy celebrating our state flower! There’ll be a bouquet-off, peony plants, peony growers sharing their expertise, artisans, kids’ activities, photo opps, food trucks and much more. Location: Seminary Park, Time: 10 am-4 pm, indianapeonyfestival.com *F

Marvel Studios ’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience

Go on an epic on-screen cinematic journey covering 23 films in one momentous concert event. Revisit the earliest days of Iron Man, Captain America and Thor as they discover their place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, each accompanied by their own heroic music. Location: Hilbert Circle Theatre, Time: 7 pm, indianapolissymphony.org

Touch-A-Truck Greenwood

Every kid's favorite vehicles gather together so your little ones can climb in and bring their toy trucks to life. Local departments and companies will pack the parking lot! $2. Location: Department of Public Works parking lot, Time: 9 am, greenwood.in.gov

Minecraft IRL Kids ages 8-11 are invited to step out of the screen and into the world of blocks, builds and buried treasure. Young crafters will take part in a real-world mining scavenger hunt, explore hands-on

Westfield International

Festival Explore diverse arts, entertainment, traditions and food from all over the world. Location: Grand Junction Plaza, Time: 12-3 pm, westfieldin. gov *F

SAT – SUN, MAY 16-17

PETER PAN at the Tarkington

SAT 16 – SUN 17

Broad Ripple Art Fair

Celebrate the richness of the Indianapolis arts community! Enjoy one-of-a-kind art, live music curated by Indy Jazz Fest, fantastic food, Bier Brewery products, artist demonstrations, and interactive art activities for people of all ages.

Location: Indianapolis Art Center, Time: 10 am-5 pm, indyartcenter.org

Peter Pan A timeless tale of adventure and imagination, Peter Pan invites audiences of all ages to fly away to the magical world of Neverland. Location: The Tarkington, thecenterpresents.org

SUN 17

Circulating Sound Concert:

Elder Charlot & the Akoustiks Enjoy some Haitian culture and tunes at this special concert! Location: Central Library, Time: 2 pm, indypl.org *F

Sensory-friendly Afternoon

@ Indiana State Museum Each month, the lights are lowered and distractions reduced so people with sensory processing differences can enjoy an interactive learning experience in a comfortable environment. Social narratives will be available and sensory-based activities will be spaced throughout the museum. Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 3-5 pm, indianamuseum. org *SN

Spring-Palooza Peony Festival

Explore 5 acres of display gardens, shop local vendors and plants, enjoy food/drink trucks, play games, do crafts and more. Sensory room and nursing mothers room available. Location: Avon Gardens, Time: 11 am-5 pm, avongardens.net *F

MON 18

Family Game Night Families and children of all ages are invited to drop in any time to make new friends while playing board games or solving puzzles. Games and puzzles will be provided. Location: Haughville Branch Library, Time: 5:30 pm, indypl.org *F

TUES 19

Playdate at the Park Grownups and littles can meet new friends during this designated unstructured nature play in the park. During this kid-led exploration, plan to get your hands, clothes and shoes dirty as we experience the habitats, plants and animals of the park. Location: Holliday Park, Time: 10 am, indyparks.org *F

SATURDAY, MAY 23

500 FESTIVAL PARADE in Downtown Indy

Touch-a-Truck Nickel Plate

Kids can explore Fishers’ fleet of big rigs, including tractors, snowplows, police cars and fire trucks. Location: Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, Time: 4-7 pm, fishersparks.com/touch-a-truck

WED 20

Bilingual Storytime (ASL)

Enjoy a storytime with a Deaf presenter and American Sign Language interpreter. This program is fully accessible and enjoyable to both Deaf and hearing individuals. Location: Lawrence Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F

Children's Masquerade

Party Decorate your own mask and then dance the night away with toddler-friendly music. Dress as fancy or as casual as you want! Location: Plainfield-Guilford Library, Time: 5 pm, plainfieldlibrary.net *F

Little Green Thumbs Young ones will learn about gardening and have the chance to help plant, grow and harvest in a vegetable garden. There will also be a story, craft and time to explore. Registration required; $5. Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am, garfieldgardensconservatory.org

THURS 21

Nature Tales: Spring

Flowers Kids can enjoy captivating tales about animals, plants and the environment. Each session will cover a new topic and may include fun activities like nature crafts, songs or movement. Location: Pecar Nature Center, Time: 9:30 am, washingtontwpparks.org *F

Pre-K Open Play Looking for a safe and fun place to let your toddler run wild and free? Games offered include floor scooters, giant bowling, jump ropes, giant connect four, youth hockey sticks and more! $3. Location: Ellenberger Park, Time: 2-4 pm, indyparks. org *SN

FRI 22

Friday Night Campfire: Bees

Enjoy a sweet treat by the fire, learn about something new, and experience the joys of beekeeping! Roasting sticks and s'mores provided, bring your own hot dogs and make a meal of it!

Location: Holliday Park, Time: 6:30 pm, indyparks.org

Strawberries on the Square

Celebrate the arrival of strawberry season with strawberry shortcakes! This festival also features food, a movie at the Artcraft Theatre, and a car cruise-in along Main Street. Location: Downtown Franklin, Time: 11 am, discoverdowntownfranklin.com *F

Movies in the Park: Cars

Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks to this free outdoor event and we'll bring the popcorn! Location: Arbuckle Acres Park, Time: 6:30 pm, brownsburgparks.com *F

FRI 22 – SAT 23

Romeo & Juliet Experience star-crossed passion, thrilling storytelling, and sweeping ensemble scenes performed by Indiana Ballet Conservatory’s acclaimed dancers. Location: The Tarkington, thecetnerpresents.org

SAT 23

500 Festival Parade More than 200,000 people will line the streets of downtown Indianapolis to experience the larger-than-life floats, giant helium balloons, celebrities and dignitaries, award-winning bands, and all 33 drivers competing in the Indy 500. Location: Downtown Indy, Time: 11:45 am, 500festival.com

Indy 500 Puzzle Race In honor of the big race, the library will be hosting a timed puzzle race. Teams or individuals can sign up to complete a 500 piece puzzle as quickly as possible. Location: Zionsville Library, Time: 2 pm, hmmpl.org *F

Peanut Butter & Jam: Todd Williams Trio All aboard! The train is leaving the station to explore what makes jazz swing. The Todd Williams Trio will explore everything you need to bop before you stop. Location: The Studio Theatre, Time: 10:30 am, thecenterpresents.org

Swan Lake This iconic ballet comes to life through breathtaking White Swan and Black Swan performances, stunning costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score, transporting audiences into a world of royal balls and moonlit spells. Location: Star Bank Performing Arts Center, Time: 2 & 7 pm, my-ballet.org

SUN 24

110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 From the 33 drivers racing for glory to the epic infield party and making memories that will last a lifetime, it’s time to celebrate the Indy 500! Location: Indianapolis Motor Speedway, indianapolismotorspeedway.com

MON 25

Baby & Toddler Storytime: Babies-A-Bloom A great way to help your infant and toddler with physical skills, early language, and early literacy skills as well as increase the bond between the parent or caregiver and a young child. Location: Eagle Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F

TUES 26

Fish for Fun An educational session on fundamental fishing skills and environmental stewardship, with a focus on native fish species, catch and release practices and habitat protection. Location: Pecar Nature Center, Time: 6-8 pm, washingtontwpparks.org *F

I Am Wild Exploration

Explore the flora and fauna of different habitats through hands-on learning. Build your own bug motel, create art inspired by wildlife and more! Based on the Indiana State Museum’s I AM WILD: A Charley Harper traveling exhibit visiting this summer. Ages 6-12. Location: Eagle Branch Library, Time: 4 pm, indypl.org *F

WED 27

Cardboard Creations Create, make, and play with cardboard in this program for kids 4-8 led by Jeremy South of Ripple Mobile Arts. Dress to mess! Location: Fort Ben Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F

Movies in the Plaza: Lilo & Stitch Come out to the Plaza with your family and friends to enjoy a free evening of entertainment on the Great Lawn. Bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the movie! Location: Grand Junction Plaza, Time: 7:30 pm, westfieldin. gov *F

Show and Tell Comes to the Library Kids in grades K-4 can share about a special collection they have. Once they’ve shared with the group, they will create a poster about their collection, help the librarian place their collection in the display case, and help the librarian to hang their poster. Location: Zionsville Library, Time: 4 pm, hmmpl.org *F

Youth Clinic @ Indianapolis Indians Learn the fundamentals to baseball and softball from your kids’ favorite Indianapolis Indians with a pregame youth clinic for children 14 and younger. Gates open at 5 p.m., and demonstrations begin at 5:10 p.m. Location: Victory Field, Time: 5 pm, milb. com/indianapolis

THURS 28

Birds of Prey with Take Flight Wildlife Education

Raptors: hawks, owls, falcons and their kin have long held our imagination. See what it's like to be hawk eyed or falcon fast by meeting these magnificent predators up close and hearing the stories of our shared history. Location: Central Library, Time: 1 pm, indypl.org *F

THURS 28 – SAT 30

Saint Simon Festival Enjoy live music, amazing festival food favorites, carnival games and rides for all ages! Location: Saint Simon The Apostle Catholic Church, saintsimonfestival.com

THURS 28 – SUN 07

The Secret Garden Based on the beloved novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the musical adaptation of The Secret Garden is a haunting and redemptive story of healing and rebirth. Location: Basile Westfield Playhouse, westfieldplayhouse.org

FRI 29

Last Day of School Foam Party Put away your school supplies because it’s summer vacation! Enjoy three foam machines, food trucks, and a Kona Ice truck. Bring goggles, a towel and a change of clothes. Location: Washington Township Park, Time: 5-8 pm, washingtontwpparks. org *F

Mud Day Get messy and have some fun with the Greenwood Fire Department as we mud up some ground and dive in! Ages 2-10. Location: Freedom Park, Time: 10 am & 12 pm, greenwood.in.gov *F

SAT 30

EarthFest Join Earth Day Indiana for free environmental activities, featuring a play performance, live music, hands-on activities and more. Location: Garfield Park, Time: 10 am-4 pm, earthdayindiana.org

EidFest Experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Eid through a variety of activities, including delicious food trucks, live cultural performances, intricate henna art and unique clothing vendors. Location: Carmel Civic Square, Time: 4-8 pm, facebook.com/ experiencecarmel

Family Concert Series: El Marimbaso El Marimbaso will take you on a musical tour of Latin America, sharing their knowledge of instruments and Latin cultures along the way. Location: Irvington Branch Library, Time: 2 pm, indypl.org *F

blocks. Bring your bike and helmet. Location: Mulberry Fields Park, zionsville-in.gov

Noblesville Duck Race Come to the Noblesville Main Street Farmers Market for festivities, and then make your way to the Bridge of Flowers and Noblesville’s Riverwalk to view 2,500 ducks cascading into the river and see who finishes first! Location: Noblesville Riverwalk, Time: 11 am, noblesvillemainstreet.org

Teddy Bear Concert with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Young children and their families are invited to an introduction to the orchestra through story, movement and live music. Teddy bears welcome! Location: East 38th Street Branch Library, Time: 11 am, indianapolissymphony.org *F

ONGOING EVENTS

Fiddler on the Roof Through May 9. Set in the little village of Anatevka, the story centers on Tevye, a poor milkman, and his five daughters. With the help of a colorful and tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and instill them with traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Czarist Russia. Location: The Tarkington, thecenterpresents.org

Come From Away Through May 10. 7,000 stranded airline passengers are welcomed to one small town in Newfoundland in the wake of September 11, 2001. Tensions run high and cultures clash, but uncertainty turns into trust while music, dance and laughter fill the night. A joyous celebration of how even the worst tragedy can be countered with kindness, generosity, and simple human compassion. Location: Indiana Repertory Theatre, irtlive.com

Flowers Forever Through May 10. Exploring various uses of flowers helps us better understand the nuances of their importance. Location: Indiana State Museum, indianamuseum.org

Singin' in the Rain Through May 23. Step back into the golden age of Hollywood with this splashy stage adaptation of one of the greatest movie musicals of all time. Singin’ in the Rain follows silent film star Don Lockwood as he navigates the turbulent transition to “talkies” — with plenty of comedy, romance and dance along the way. Location: Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, beefandboards.com

PAW Patrol: Adventure Play Through May 25. The heroic PAW Patrol pups are back in action, and they need your help in Adventure Bay! Children and families will join Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rubble, Everest, Rocky, Zuma and Tracker as they explore unique abilities, overcome challenges, and help friends in this epic adventure. Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

Cinderella May 28-July 12. This enchanting Broadway musical brings the classic fairy tale to life with the romance, magic, and humor that only Rodgers & Hammerstein can deliver. Location: Beef & Board Dinner Theatre, beefandboards.com

Indy A to Z Through June 28. View Indianapolis through a new lens as we explore the city using our A-B-Cs. Monumental sights, breathtaking art and more! Location: Indiana State Museum, indianamuseum.org

Setting the Pace Through June 28. Highlights the legacy of pace cars, a tradition that started at the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911 and continues to this day. Location: Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, imsmuseum.org

Tiana’s Joyful Celebration Through Jan. 3, 2027. Explore the art, food, dance, music and collaborative spirit of New Orleans alongside Princess Tiana. Use your own "special spice" to help her finish preparations for the Mardi Gras parade and create a joyful celebration! Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

Toddler Time: Feathered Friends Discover the amazing, feathered friends passing through and living in Indiana. Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am, indianamuseum. org

Kids Bike Rodeo Young riders will rotate through fun, hands-on stations to practice bike safety skills like helmet fit, stopping, turning and riding with confidence. To ensure a great experience for every rider, age groups will participate during scheduled time

Spring Blooms Through May 10. Spring Blooms explores how the spring season shapes our traditions, activities and celebrations both around the world and close to home. Location: Newfields, discovernewfields. org