GRKIDS Family Fun Guides | January 2019

JAN 2019

GRAND RAPIDS

VOL 3

FAMILY FUN GUIDE

TOP DOCS

FIND YOUR FAVORITE HEALTH CARE PROVIDER HERE

See pages 12 - 15

ALL THE AT THE FUN LIBRARY

indoor play places page 26

Say Cheese!

BEST ADULT MAC N CHEESE

’S T A WH T 2019 HMO n in a g i ich out all est In W eck them 17 Ch age on p

Ooey Gooey Details on pages 6-7

GRAND RAPIDS

KIDS

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

Welcome

… to the Health and Learning Edition of the GRKIDS Family Fun Guide!

Find out who was voted "Top Pediatrician" in our annual Family Care Provider contest, research local schools + preschools, and most importantly, take notes on our deep dive into GR's tastiest mac n' cheese. We scoured Grand Rapids for the best versions of your favorite comfort food so you’ll know what to order on your next date night.

And for those of you new to West Michigan, find tips on dressing for warmth, a list of favorite communities, and fun facts about Grand Rapids. We hope you dig this place as much as we do!

One of the things we love about West Michigan is our beautiful winter season. Whether you prefer to spend it indoors or out, we have ideas for the best ways to spend a snow day, a bucket list of winter activities, and our favorite indoor play places.

We are so happy you are here!

Team GRKIDS Melody VanderWeide Publisher

April Hunt Content Editor

Leanne Hendrikse Content Manager

Christie Tidd Graphic Designer

Ashley Burgin Contributor

Stephanie Kozlowicz Contributor

Mary Scripps Contributor

Stephanie Pearson Contributor

Elizabeth Rudd Contributor FIND US ONLINE grkids.com Facebook.com/grkids Instagram.com/grkids grkids.com/daily

The Grand Rapids Family Fun Guide is published five times per year by Grand Rapids Kids in Grand Rapids, MI. ©2019 Grand Rapids Kids, All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part granted only by written permission of the publisher in accordance with our legal statement.

GRKIDS.COM

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

SO MUCH Good Stuff PACKED IN HERE! THE GREAT MAC ‘N’ CHEESE ROUNDUP | 6 HOW TO DRESS FOR WINTER | 8 SNOW DAY IDEA KIT | 9 WHERE TO WORK OUT WITH CHILDCARE | 10 WINTER BUCKET LIST | 11 TOP VOTED HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS | 12 COMMUNITIES FAMILIES LOVE | 16 WHAT’S HOT IN GRAND RAPIDS IN 2019 | 18 FIND YOUR SCHOOL | 19 NEW NEIGHBOR 101 | 22 GRAND RAPIDS BY THE NUMBERS | 23 WEST MICHIGAN LINGO | 24 MICHIGAN CITY NICKNAME QUIZ | 25 LIBRARIES WITH GREAT INDOOR PLAY PLACES | 26 INDOOR FUN IN GRAND RAPIDS | 27 WAITING GAMES TO PLAY WITH YOUR KIDS | 30 GRATITUDE JAR | 31

GRKIDS.COM

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The 8 Most Delicious ADULT MAC N CHEESE DISHES

You’ll Find in GR

When going out on date night, I’m tempted to order a meal I usually don’t cook at home - something exotic that my kids would never eat. But honestly, I love macaroni and cheese, and if this one night offers me an hour to enjoy a well-made mac n cheese dish, then yes, I am going to order it.

Below I have reviewed eight Macaroni and Cheese dishes in the Grand Rapids area, so you too, can order macaroni and cheese on date night, and not feel embarrassed, because these are classy adult mac n cheese dishes. These are not made from a blue box!

B

se / Creamiest e e h

Best Mac N

C

e c N Ch ese Ma

WESTSIDE SOCIAL TAVERN

Perfect mixture of crab, noodles and cheese, made with white cheddar, smoked gouda, macaroni, lump crab, avocado & bacon, baked with parmesan-reggiano, panko & gremolata. $17

hell Mac N Ch S t

2213 WEALTHY ST EAST GRAND RAPIDS PH: 616.805.5231 carolinalck.com

eese

2802 LAKE MICHIGAN DR NW GRAND RAPIDS PH: 616.453.5877 westside.social

CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY KITCHEN

Bes

The color of the chorizo makes this mac n cheese glow. Add in bell peppers, jalapenos, spiced bread crumbs, and it’s complete. $12

ese

eafood N Ch S t e es

HOPCAT Shell noodles smothered in warm cheese sauce & topped with kettle chip crumbles. We chose the Caprese combo, which added marinated tomatoes and basil to the mac n cheese. $12 25 IONIA AVE, GRAND RAPIDS PH: 616.451.4677 | hopcat.com/grand-rapids 6

GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

Most S o

Mos t

heese NC

sticated Mac i h p

THE GREEN WELL Perfectly blended assortment of corkscrew pasta, chicken, ham, bacon, peas, caramelized onions, mushrooms, four cheeses, bread crumbs and white truffle oil. $16

TWISTED ROOSTER Cavatappi pasta, bold house cheese blend, toasted garlic breadcrumbs, fresh herbs and a parmesan crisp. $13.59 1600 EAST BELTLINE AVE NE GRAND RAPIDS PH: 616.301.8171 twisted-rooster.com

Raise a

to this Mac lg ass

OPPOSITIES ATTRACT

Vegetarian Best

heese NC

924 CHERRY ST SE GRAND RAPIDS PH: 616.808.3566 thegreenwell.com

t Meat Lovers Bes

eese Ch

tive Mac N Crea

ELECTRIC CHEETAH A house seven-cheese blend with a touch of Dijon mustard and paprika, bacon and green onions, topped with seasoned bread crumbs and baked to order. $14 1015 WEALTHY ST SE GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49506 PH: 616.451.4779 electriccheetah.com

THORNAPPLE BREWING COMPANY Two choices of mac n cheese; the first is a whiskey BBQ pork with haystack onions, and the second is a mushroom, spinach and pesto mac n cheese. $7 6262 28TH ST SE, GRAND RAPIDS PH: 616.288.6907 | thornapplebrewing.com

GRKIDS.COM

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HOW TO DRESS for

Winter in West Michigan

If you’re new to the area, it can be hard to know what to expect, how to stay warm, and when winter really starts or ends. (Last year snow storms continued into April.)

When dressing for outdoor play, these tips can guarantee comfort in the brisk temps. Warning: dressing well for winter may cause you to fall in love with Michigan in wintertime. If this happens to you, please consult our Ski, Sled, Snowshoe and Ice Skating Guide at grkids.com.

Staying warm starts with the important base layer of wool or synthetic long underwear.

Avoid cotton as it cools the body once it’s wet.

Wool socks (thick or thin) keep toes comfortable, and they’re sold at any outdoor store in West Michigan. For long days outside, consider buying disposable foot warmers.

Layer up with pants and long sleeve shirts. Cotton and fleece are great for the mid-layers.

For further insulation and water protection, waterproof snow pants and quality insulated boots that keep toes dry will go a long way. Popular brands in West Michigan are Bogs, Kamik, Sorel and Columbia.

Finish up with a warm hat, scarf, and waterproof mittens. A balaclava is great for extra blustery days and skiing, sledding, or tubing adventures.

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

LET IT SNOW

SNOW DAY Idea

Kit

Winter in West Michigan means surprise snow days for local kids. (Why can't grownups ever get a WORK Snow Day??) These are some of our favorite unique activities for when the next ‘school’s canceled’ text comes.

Launch a Plush Snowball Fight

Finally, a use for the six dozen plush animals lying in every corner of the house! Set up teams and create bases, divvy up the animals, and then watch them fly.

(Remember to remove any toys with hard plastic parts.)

Build an Epic Blanket Fort

Pull out all the blankets and pillows to make a huge fort. Grab flashlights and books for a cozy, fun storytime.

Paint in the Snow

Add a few drops of food coloring to a water spray bottle and let the kids paint on the snow. Mix up several bottles of different colors to learn how red and blue blend to make purple!

Host a Tea Party

Invite your neighbors (or just those plush animals) to a British afternoon tea. Dress up with fancy hats and gloves and get out fun cups and plates. *Bonus points if you make scones beforehand! **Extra bonus if you serve them with clotted cream.

Run a Hot Chocolate Stand

While all the neighborhood kids are outside making snowmen, it’s a great time for your kids to make some sales! Bake cookies for additional profits.

Make Snow Ice Cream

Collect 8 cups of (fresh!) snow in a large bowl. Add a 14oz can of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix to combine. Add toppings and serve immediately.

Create an Indoor Obstacle Course

Set up an obstacle course in the house and award prizes for the quickest time and the best sportsmanship.

GRKIDS.COM

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WHERE TO Work

Out

WITH Childcare Achieve your health goals - with children in tow - at these fitness centers offering childcare.

Alkalign Studio 523 Ada Dr SE, Ste 101, Ada This barre and fitness studio offers classes throughout the day. Check their schedule for class offerings and childcare availability.

The Dailey Method - Eastown 1551 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids They offer childcare during select classes. Sign up for a class and childcare and enjoy a mixture of Pilates, yoga, ballet barre training and cycling.

MVP Sports Clubs MVP has six area locations Kid’s Stuff is free to child members ages 0-11 and is a large, supervised play area where children can be active and creative while you work out.

Renew Mama Studio 5161 Northland Dr, Grand Rapids Here you can wear your baby to yoga or barre class! For moms who want to go it alone, they also offer childcare for a fee. Have an older kid? Check out their yoga classes for kids.

The Salvation Army Kroc Center 2500 S. Division Ave, Grand Rapids Child Watch is a safe, fun environment for children ages 3 months to 11 years. It is included with a family membership, or a punch card may be purchased for 10 uses.

Burn Boot Camp 6272 28th St SE, Grand Rapids Complimentary childcare is available at various times of the day for their 45 minute boot camp sessions.

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

CHECK IT OFF

WINTER Bucket

List

Winter is here and West Michigan is the best place to experience it. Indoors or outdoors, this Winter Bucket List is your key to enjoying the snowy season with your kids! How many of these do you think your family will check off this year?

Build a snowman family.

Have a family movie night in pj’s.

Eat a picnic lunch in a snow fort.

Donate warm coats, sweaters, or mittens to In The Image.

Take a snowshoe hike at Blandford Nature Center.

Set up a Hot Chocolate Bar with all your favorite toppings.

Visit frozen Lake Michigan.

Take a carriage ride through downtown Grand Rapids.

Cheer on the Grand Rapids Griffins hockey team.

Have a chili cook-off with your neighbors.

Make snow art by filling a spray bottle with colored water and paint the snow.

Make a homemade bird feeder out of pine cones, peanut butter and birdseeds.

Go for a snowmobile ride.

Host a snowball target contest.

Bake cookies and deliver them to friends.

Visit a downtown museum.

Read winter-themed books outside.

(Our list includes The Mitten, The Snowy Day, Owl Moon, and The Snowman.)

Host a family game night.

Glide your way through the woods on the ice skating trail at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex.

Shovel a neighbor’s driveway.

Unbundle and take a dip during open swim at Holland Aquatic Center.

Cut out snowflakes and hang them on the windows.

Catch snowflakes on your tongue.

Blow bubbles and watch them freeze.

Hunt for animal tracks in the snow.

Grab the printable at

GRKIDS.COM/WINTER-BUCKET-LIST GRKIDS.COM

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Top Voted HEALTH CARE Providers If you are looking for a dentist or doc, where do you start??

You start here. We’ve polled parents across West Michigan to find the area’s most beloved pediatricians, mental health professionals, doulas, ENTs and more. Here are the top-voted professionals of each category. (To see the full list, including each category's top 10, go to www.grkids.com/top-docs.)

Allergist // Dr. Sara Uekert, Grand Rapids Allergy Chiropractor // Dr. David Ward, Active Life Chiropractic Dentist // Dr. Agata Lefere, Grandville Pediatric Dentistry Dermatologist // Dr. Richard Ashack, Dermatology Associates of West Michigan Birth Doula // Kristin Revere, Gold Coast Doulas Postpartum Doula // Carrie Stephens, Ginger Blossom Doula Services

continued on page 14

Infancy to young adulthood, every step of the way

Our practice strives to make this new journey for your child a fun and rewarding experience. There is no doubt … your child’s path to optimum dental health starts here.

Our Doctors Dennis L. Lake, MD

Shawna Pierce, MD

Megan N. Clark, MD

Jeremy R. Veenema, DO

Jennifer L. Van Zee, MD

Nicole R. Van Allen, MD

Our Locations GRAND RAPIDS 721 Kenmoor Ave SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 949-6112

3131 44th Street SW, Grandville, MI 49418

616-531-3430

grandvillepediatricdentistry.com 12

GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

JENISON 1915 Georgetown Center Dr Suite 102 Jenison, MI 49428 (616) 457-3510

westernmichiganpediatrics.com

Voted GRKids ! #1 Orthodontist for the past three years

WM Eye Care

www.AWbraces.com

vvandmkidsden�stry.com

Your Dental Team

At Valleau, VanDeven, and Massie Dentistry for Children, what sets our office apart is the

kind, gentle, and compassionate care we provide all of our pa�ents. We understand that a child’s mind is constantly growing and developing and that all children cope with new situa�ons differently. Our wonderful staff takes pride in making all children feel comfortable, relaxed, and even making a dental visit fun!

Grand Rapids (616) 455-1301 2000 43rd St. S.E. - Grand Rapids, MI

Rockford (616) 884-5812 170 Marcell Dr. N.E. - Rockford, MI

Top Voted HEALTH CARE Providers cont.

Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor // Dr. Chad Afman, Spectrum Health Medical Group Eye Doctor // Dr. Jeffrey Kenyon, West Michigan Eyecare Associates Mental Health Professional // Dr. Michael Wolff, BRAINS Midwife // Sarah LaGrand, Advanced Obstetrics and Gynecology OB/GYN // Dr. John LaGrand, Advanced Obstetrics and Gynecology Occupational Therapist // Chelsey Langley, Paper Plane Therapies Orthodontist // Dr. Mark Wierenga, Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics Pediatrician // Dr. Jeffrey Mantia, Grandville Pediatrics Primary Care // Dr. Michael App, Internal Medicine & Pediatrics of West Michigan Speech Therapist // Jill Miller, Paper Plane Therapies

GRAND RAPIDS

KIDS See the full list of

TOP VOTED HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS at grkids.com/top-docs Grand Rapids Ear Nose & Throat, P.C. has been serving the Grand Rapids community and surrounding areas for over 25 years. Our practice is committed to providing the highest level of comprehensive treatment for your ear, nose and throat concerns.

1555 44th St SW Wyoming MI 49509 (616) 249-8000

1425 Michigan St NE Suite A Grand Rapids MI 49503 (616) 459-4514

www.grentpc.com 14

GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

Any Child. Any Need.

Smile, Adventure Awaits!

179 East Paris Avenue, Suite 130 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546

(616) 942-9840 | kingmakids.com

400 Ann St NW Suite 106A Grand Rapids, MI 49504

616-591-2905

paperplanetherapies.com

paperplanetherapies PAPER PLANE THERAPIES provides occupational and speech therapy services to the Grand Rapids area. We strive to create a fun, creative, and warm atmosphere that considers the needs of the entire family. Our therapists are trained to identify each child's barriers and utilize their strengths to overcome challenges and meet tangible goals. If you have any questions regarding services for your child, do not hesitate to contact us!

KRUSEORTHO.COM | 616-656-4155

6208 KALAMAZOO AVE. SE, SUITE 3 GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49508 GRKIDS.COM

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LIFE IN THE MITTEN

COMMUNITIES

we Love ROCKFORD

ALTO

Rockford has so much to offer families! I

Moving to Alto is one of the best decisions we’ve

love living here because we have a generous

made! We are only 15-20 minutes from the big

community, amazing schools, and a

stores or Downtown, while still enjoying life in a

beautiful downtown area with so much

rural area. The community couldn’t be friendlier or

history. We love walking Downtown as a

more helpful! We are an egg “borrowing,” ride

family and enjoying the dam area, the parks,

giving, lend-a-hand-and-watch-each-other’s-kids

the restaurants and the shopping.

community. I’ve never felt more at home than I do here.

Laura Gifford GRKIDS Team Member

Carla Hardy GRKIDS Team Member

HOLLAND Holland is an absolutely fantastic place to live. Lake Michigan is so close that we can have beach days all year round. (Of course, they do look a little different depending on the season!) We love the farmers market, the quaint beauty of 8th Street, and the well-planned community events. I love the friendliness we find in our sweet little town. Holland is great!

Jennifer VanderLugt GRKIDS Team Member

CALEDONIA I love the friendly community in Caledonia. You get the small

HUDSONVILLE Our family has come to love Hudsonville for its quiet countryside and growing urban area. The farmers market at Terra Square, treats from Sprinkles Donut Shop and the Hudsonville Fair are quintessential to our community. And our growing locally-owned restaurant and retail scene makes it a perfect place to spend time with family and friends!

Renee Compston GRKIDS Team Member

hometown benefits, plus the Grand Rapids city life just a short drive away. It has everything to offer with restaurants, parks, a library, small businesses, walking and biking trails, and wonderful schools.

The Village has many festivals and celebrations throughout the year that bring the community together.

EASTOWN

Kimberly Guider GRKIDS Team Member

We love Eastown because we can walk to get almost everything we need. Our butcher knows our names, we eat pizza and drink locally-brewed beer at Harmony Brewing, buy spectacularly curated items at the fairs and stores, and we walk down the block for music lessons for the kids at Southtown Guitar. The neighborhood values community and walkability. I think we'll never leave here!

Liz Leo GRKIDS Team Member

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

WHAT’S Hot IN

Grand Rapids IN 2019

The area is bursting with growth and change. Overnight a new restaurant or shop pops up, another park is renovated, and more cranes are busy at work transforming the downtown skyline. It’s hard to keep tabs on all the exciting new things in Grand Rapids!

These are the things to watch for in West Michigan in 2019

Entertainment Studio Park | 100 Ottawa Ave SW, Grand Rapids Plans include a 9-screen movie theater, restaurants, a live music “listening room,” open green space, apartments and a hotel.

The Lion King

| 744 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids - This favorite Lansing coffee shop is opening

a 2nd location in GR. Blue Owl Coffee is known for its open mic nights and and delicious brew.

Railbird Taphouse and Brewery

| 2619 84th St SW, Byron Center - The first brewpub in Byron Center

will make its debut this year, in the old Byron Hotel.

DeVos Performance Hall | 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids - Broadway’s award-winning musical, THE LION KING makes its premiere at DeVos.

Hamilton

DeVos Performance Hall | 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids - Broadway GR is bringing Hamilton

to DeVos in the 2019-2020 season.

Brewery Vivant “Concept Two” | 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, Kentwood - Brewery Vivant is

opening a second taproom in 2019, dubbed “Brewery Vivant Concept Two.” It will feature on-site brewing, retail space and a 99 seat taproom.

Retail Woodland Mall

Parks Grand Rapids Bike Park | 570 Kirtland St SW, Grand Rapids - If you are a biker add this to your ride list. It’s the area’s newest single track!

Calder Plaza | 250 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids - As early as June you may be able to enjoy dinner and a performance at Calder Plaza. Plans include a pavilion with a stage and cafe building.

Frederik Meijer Gardens | 1000 East Beltline Ave, Grand Rapids - FMG’s Amphitheater expansion project should be completed by June, just in time for a summer concert! There will be increased seating, restrooms and concessions.

Ottawa Sands |

Blue Owl Coffee

18153 North Shore Dr, Ferrysburg

Ottawa Sands, purchased by Ottawa County, includes 345 acres of rolling sand dunes and a pristine 80 acre lake. Trails are ready for hikers!

All Grand Rapids City Parks

In 2019 you can expect to see new signage for all 75 Grand Rapids city parks.

Dining Third Nature Brewing Company

| 7733 Childsdale Ave NE, Rockford - This brewery is

situated on 7 1/2 acres between the Rouge and Grand Rivers. With 20-foot windows and a beer garden it will be a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

| 3195 28th St SE, Kentwood

Big changes are coming to Woodland Mall, including REI (see below). Progress continues on the new Von Maur dept store and the new shopping wing will include Urban Outfitters, Black Rock Bar and Grill and a few more surprises.

REI | 3149 28th St SE, Kentwood - This outdoor outfitter specializing in high quality gear and apparel is opening at Woodland Mall. More than a gear store, you can also take REI Outdoor School classes here.

Community Amy Van Andel Library and Community Center | Thornapple River Dr SE, Ada - The newest

Kent District Library branch begins construction this spring and is part of the large redevelopment project Envisioning Ada.

ArtPrize | Grand Rapids - ArtPrize has moved to a biennial format. During the years between ArtPrize competitions the city will host a project series.

Project 1 kicks off September 7.

Driverless Shuttle

| Grand Rapids - Starting in spring, new driverless vehicles will be part of the downtown GR scene! The vehicles will travel a 3.2 mile route along the existing DASH West bus route, providing connectivity (free of charge) to many GR parking lots and venues.

GRKIDS.COM

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FREE (or almost free) Winter

Activities FOR KIDS AROUND WEST MICHIGAN

1. Bundle up and head out to the nearby sledding hill. Some of our favorites are Ada Vista Elementary, Provin Trails and Pinery Park.

2. Explore nature at Calvin College Ecosystem Preserve. Free family programs are offered on the first Saturday of each month.

3. Go bowling. Many local lanes offer low-priced games, including Hudsonville Lanes’ Buck Night with $1 games, shoe rental, pop, hot dogs and fries every Monday and Thursday night.

4. Head to Caledonia Dance & Music Center for Story Time with a Twist. This free activity is held every Tuesday at 10 AM, and combines storybooks with music, dance, rhymes and more!

5. Visit Grand Rapids Art Museum on Tuesdays from 10 AM - 5 PM, or on Thursdays from 5 - 9 PM, and get in free!

6. Enjoy Family Night at Grand Rapids Children’s Museum on Thursdays from 5 - 8 PM. Admission is just $1.75 per person, for ages 1 and up.

7. For only $5, kids in grades 5-9 can have a blast at the 3 Mile Project. A former warehouse, it now contains sports courts, theaters, a skate park, a Reball arena, video games, table games and more!

8. Get your farm animal fix in at the Critter Barn in Zeeland, from 10 AM – 1 PM, Monday-Saturday. Admission is a freewill donation.

9. Ice skate at Rosa Parks Circle, where admission, including skate rental, is only $3 for adults and $1 for children (cash only).

10. Attend a Grand Rapids Symphony concert. Children ages 7-18 get in free with the purchase of an adult ticket purchased from the GRS ticket office with their Free for Kids program.

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

Learning DIRECTORY What kind of school are you looking for? Educating our kids no longer has a one-size-fits-all approach.

Many families put a lot of work into choosing the right school for their child. Start your research here with our Learning Directory!

Gathering information is the first step.

Next, explore your options as you consider what is best for your child and family. Compile your top choices and then plan tours to meet teachers and learn more about each school.

For our full list of West Michigan school options for every family – private, secular and faith-based, visit:

GRKIDS.COM/SCHOOLS

GRKIDS.COM

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Find Your School

At Outside the Box: Creative Tutoring, we believe that the secret to unlocking a student's potential lies in the ability to be silly, personable, and creative with how we teach. We have skilled tutors to help with every grade level and subject, preK-12, including ASL, art, mental health coaching, drama, Spanish, and advanced math and science. We work with teachers to ensure we are covering what will best help the students succeed in the classroom, and we make it fun.

Our students enjoy sessions with us and look forward to tutoring every week.

Outside the Box: Creative Tutoring

703-966-8725

Greater Grand Rapids Area

otbctutoring.com

Jenison Inl Academy

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

Find Your School

High Quality, Affordable, Christ-Centered Education

Join us for our Open House on January 29, 2019 at 6:30pm 1916 Ridgewood Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI oslsgr.org // 616.949.0710

A GREAT PLACE TO GROW!

3060 Wilson Ave SW Grandville, MI 49418

616.534.5465

mapletreepreschool.org

GRKIDS.COM

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HOWDY, NEIGHBOR!

3 WAYS TO MAKE

New Locals FEEL at Home West Michigan is quickly growing! Warmly welcoming new locals goes a long way to help newcomers call West Michigan home.

1. Say Hi to Your New Neighbors!

This one is simple and very effective - introduce yourself and your family. Knock on your new neighbor's door and introduce yourself within a week of the new family's arrival. Just saying hi goes farther than you can imagine.

2. Share Your Area Expertise

Give recommendations about great places to eat, fun places to go, and ways to get involved in extracurricular activities in your community.

3. Extend an Invitation

Does your family order pizza from your favorite restaurant on Fridays? Are you planning to take the kids to the park this weekend? Encourage the new neighbors to join!

Are you a new local looking for more ways to connect and build friendships?

Check out

GRKIDS.COM/LIST-OF-PARENTING-GROUPS -IN-WEST-MICHIGAN

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

THE WHOLE NINE YARDS

GRAND RAPIDS by

the Numbers

Check out this list of all the ways Grand Rapids is special to us - in numerical order. This one's for you, math friends!

1 Presidential Library & Museum to explore 3 public city pools to swim in 4 pro sports teams to cheer on 5 rules to ordering at Yesterdog 6 museums to explore 6.5 acres of Robinette’s corn fields to get lost in

44 lumber boom furniture companies to remember

44 hand-carved wooden horses, 2 chariots and 6 menagerie animals to ride at the GRPM

50 years of Festival of the Arts to celebrate 54 different languages spoken by GRPS students 74 city-owned parks to enjoy 116 art-glass windows in Frank Lloyd Wright’s

7 feet of Motu Viget tire to swing on Meyer May House 8 days of LaughFest 169 years of Grand Rapids to treasure 8 miles of the Grand River to enjoy 230 species of animals on exhibit at the John 8 distinct destination neighborhoods to call home Ball Zoo 9 2018-19 Civic Theatre shows to see 300 planes to watch from the GRR Airport Viewing Park 11 flavors of root beer at the Electric Cheetah to try 473 LEED Certified buildings (with 107 registered and in the works) 12th best place to live in the nation 1,273 family-friendly articles to read on 13 ice cream shops to scream for grkids.com 14 public city pads to splash in 1,300 architectural wonders to admire in 14 must-try food trucks Heritage Hill 15 colleges 7,000 tropical butterflies to watch take flight 16 breweries to visit on date night at Frederik Meijer Gardens 24 Downtown Market vendors 8,000 Kids Food Basket sack suppers served daily 24 feet of American Horse to run under 10,834 seats at Van Andel Arena 25 Instagrammable spots: find them all at grkids.com/instagram-spots 21,000 participants to cheer on in the Fifth Third Riverbank Run 27 Rapid Bus routes to ride 150,000 hot dogs consumed each season at 28 different coffee shops to try Fifth Third Ballpark 32 miles to drive to Lake Michigan 198,829 residents to love 42 tons of steel that make up La Grande 500,000 dollars awarded at ArtPrize Vitesse GRKIDS.COM

23

SAY WHAT?

WEST MICHIGAN Lingo “Ope!” Wonder what’s up with all the people around you saying “ope”? If you’re new to Grand Rapids some of our local lingo may leave you scratching your head. Like, why is everyone saying Meijers when there’s no s at the end?!?

While we cannot explain the whys, we can explain the meaning behind some of our local lingo.

You eat supper. And drink pop. (Dinner and soda are for people in faraway places.)

On busy roads and small highways, left turns are often not allowed.

Instead, there is a separate lane just after the intersection to allow for a U-Turn called a Michigan Left.

When people say they’re going Up North, it means anywhere in Michigan that’s north of where they are (even if it’s only 30 minutes away).

Fleece is not just a fabric - it’s a warm coat layer necessary for fall, winter and spring in our fickle Michigan weather.

The Big Lake is Lake Michigan.

We are the Mitten State because the lower peninsula is shaped like one.

When you tell people where you live, use your hand as a map!

(And yes, there is a way to use your other hand as the map for the Upper Peninsula!)

‘Ope! - An amalgamation of sorry and oops, we often say 'Ope! as a way to be polite and show deference to the other person who we almost bumped into or cut off in line. (You can take this term with you anywhere in the Midwest.)

WHAT’S IN A NAME

MICHIGAN City

Nickname QUIZ

How well do you know the Mitten State? Test your knowledge of these beloved Michigan cities by guessing their corresponding nicknames.

1. Cereal Bowl of the World 2. Michigan's Oldest City 3. Baby Food Capital of the World 4. Gem of the Huron 5. Blueberry Capital of the World 6. Christmas Pickle Capital of the World 7. America's Emerald Isle 8. A Squared 9. Cherry Pit Spitting Capital of the World 10. Celery City GRKIDS.COM

25

MORE THAN BOOKS

Libraries

with GREAT KIDS’

Play Places

Our libraries are a sanity saver for many local parents. From dynamic storytimes to unique kid-friendly spaces, each branch has something new for children to discover. Come for the interactive fun, and leave with a stack of books to enjoy together at home.

With both Grand Rapids Public Library (GRPL) and Kent District Library (KDL) branches in our city and surrounding communities, you’re never far from learning fun.

Be sure to ask your local library staff about children’s programming like storytime or playgroups!

GRPL Main Branch | GRPL

East Grand Rapids Branch | KDL

111 Library St NE, Grand Rapids There are two areas here for children. In one section babies can enjoy board books, puzzles and blocks. Bigger kids will dig the area with a play kitchen, dress up clothes, a puppet theatre, a train table, blocks and LEGOs and an art station.

746 Lakeside Dr SE, East Grand Rapids The fun begins with a child-sized pirate ship, a magnet wall, a bean bag toss game, a light table, and a shadow puppet screen, as well as many rotating activity centers.

Seymour Branch | GRPL 2350 Eastern SE, Grand Rapids This branch offers children early literacy computer stations, blocks and other building materials, a train table and puzzles.

Yankee Clipper Branch | GRPL 2025 Leonard NE, Grand Rapids Featuring cozy reading nooks, this branch also offers puzzles, blocks and a play kitchen, and early literacy play stations.

Englehardt Branch | KDL 200 N. Monroe St, Lowell Pretend play abounds with a child-sized log cabin and pretend fire, a fishing hole game, farm toys and magnet wall.

Krause Memorial Branch | KDL 140 E. Bridge St, Rockford At this branch, find many options for play with a LEGO table, puzzles, a light table, and an imagination station, as well as a chance to work on writing skills at the writing center.

Byron Township Branch | KDL 8191 Byron Center Ave SW, Byron Center Kids will find a play kitchen, toy bins and a magnet board, a play grocery store stocked with pretend produce, a LEGO wall and a dress up station.

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

See more library play places: GRKIDS.COM/LIBRARIES

INDOOR PLAY PLACES

WHERE TO Play Inside Lots of options for when the weather is frigid.

Find even more places to explore AT GRKIDS.COM/INDOOR-PLAY

Great Family Fun! Check out our Facebook page or website for rates, hours and specials

3330 Fairlanes Ave., Grandville MI, 49418 (616)534-8235

GRKIDS.COM

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2978 28th St. SE GR, 49512

616-200-6956

grandrapids@catchairparty.com FB Catch Air Grand Rapids We are so excited to have opened a state of the art indoor play center for children 10 years of age and under!

- Fun, safe and clean environment - Tiny Town – for our 3.5 feet & under guests - A 3 story structure with 5 slides, a Nerf ball shooting area, obstacle courses, 2-mini zip lines and more!

- 2 bounce house style toys - Interactive dance floor!

- Party rooms!

- 2 Party Package Options!

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

Online Booking craigscruisers.com GRKIDS.COM

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HAVE PATIENCE

Games to Play

WHILE YOU’RE

Waiting

Ditch the phone and give these games a try the next time you and your kids are waiting at an appointment or restaurant, in the car, or in the grocery store checkout line!

Twenty-One

Penny Gymnastics

Starting with #1, go around the circle counting up to 21.

Each person can say 1, 2, or 3 numbers in a row.

Challenge yourselves to drop a penny on your shoe without it falling off.

For example: Person A: 1, 2, 3 Person B: 4 Person C: 5, 6, 7 Person A: 8, 9

Listen Closely Choose a word or phrase for everyone to listen closely for.

The first person to hear it wins!

If you’re the player who has to say 21, you’re out. Play again and again until one person is left - the winner!

I Spy Take turns to guess what the other person sees. Start the game by saying, “I spy with my little eye, something that is (insert color here).”

20 QUESTIONS Pick a person, place, or thing. Start the game by saying, “I am thinking of a person (or place, or thing)”. Players can ask 20 yes/no questions to deduce what you chose.

Tote Tale

Craft a story together about three items from your purse.

CATEGORIES One player names a category and other players list an item that fits that category. Make it extra challenging by requiring the answers to start with the same letter as the category.

(For example, Baking category answers could be Bread, Butter, Buns.)

The first person to repeat an item or not have an answer gets a point. Lowest number of points wins the game.

Two Truths and a Lie One person makes three statements about his or her self, but only two of them are true. Go around and have everyone guess which statement is the lie.

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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | January 2019

GIVE THANKS

Gratitude JAR Cultivating an attitude of gratitude begins by taking a moment to stop and appreciate the little and big joys of life. A Gratitude Jar is a simple practice for this.

To start, think about something you are grateful for, write it down, and place it in a jar. It can be simple, like a hot cup of coffee or a heartfelt conversation with a friend. Daily, weekly, or monthly, take time to write a gratitude note.

Be reminded of your blessings as you see your jar fill up, and once it’s full, read through the gratitude notes and look back on your time celebrating life’s joys.

Make your own Gratitude Jar

Ingredients: - 1 Mason Jar - Ribbon, stickers or paint to personalize - Pen and paper for writing Gratitude Notes on - Gratitude!

Childhood memories that will last a lifetime!

Check out our preseason specials at backyardfunzone.com

5668 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321 616-785-7383 | backyardfunzone.com backyardfunzone@gmail.com Follow Us on