Category Archives: Kids Activities

Questions in block play can support scientific learning

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Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Kevin Zoromski, Michigan State University Extension


An excellent way to enhance your child’s scientific skill set is by playing together with blocks. Through block play, you can help your child focus on specific skills that may lead to a greater understanding of scientific principles as they learn more about the world around them. Remember that you can play with blocks anywhere. Feel free to take blocks to the backyard, park and places where you can spend time in nature. Using blocks in unconventional locations may create new sensory experiences that connect children to the natural world and their overall environment. In this series of articles, you will learn some specific questions to use to interact with your child using blocks to increase their developmental skills.


There are many ways to increase scientific skills and knowledge by playing with blocks. Playing with blocks can increase the ability to use observation, guessing and comparison. Block play can also lead to increased understanding of gravity, weight and balance. As you use blocks to play with your children, it is essential to be aware of some important and fun questions you can ask to support their learning and increasing of scientific skills.


Questions for learning about comparisons with blocks:

  • Can you show me which tower is the tallest?
  • Which block is the smallest? Which block is the biggest?
  • Which block is the shortest? Which block is the longest?
  • Do you have more red blocks or blue blocks? More yellow blocks or green blocks?
  • Is the red tower or the green tower the smallest?
  • Is the yellow tower or blue tower the biggest?

Questions for learning about gravity with blocks:

  • What will happen to the tower if we take this block away? (Choose a block in the middle.)
  • What makes the blocks fall down?
  • What can you do to make the tower fall down?

Questions for learning about balance with blocks:

  • Can you hold this block and stand on one foot?
  • How many blocks can you stack before it tips over, falls down, etc.?
  • Can you build a bridge with your blocks?
  • How can you make the blocks even? (Two on each side, three on each side, etc.)

Questions for learning about weight with blocks:

  • Can you show me the block you think is the heaviest? Lightest?
  • Which block would fit best on the top of your tower?
  • Which block should we use for the bottom of the tower (use to start building the tower)?
  • What would happen if you put the heaviest block on top of the tower?

Questions for learning about observation with blocks:

  • Can you show me the smallest block? The largest block?
  • Where is the square block, the circle block, the triangle block, etc.?
  • Can you find the shortest block? The longest block?
  • Where is the straight block? Where is the curved block?

Questions for learning about guessing using blocks:

  • Can we stack 10 blocks without them falling over?
  • If I remove this block, what do you think will happen?
  • If I place a block here, what will happen?
  • Can you show me the block you think will fit here?

Using any of these questions while playing with blocks can help a child increase their knowledge and excitement for science. Beginning to learn science at an early age can help increase creation of pathways in the brain. With more experiences, children may have a greater chance of being successful at learning higher scientific skills later in life.


Another great spot to search for science activities and resources is PBS Parents. They offer many activities, ideas and articles for playful science learning and are a great place to find extra resources for helping children increase their learning in science.


For more information on developing science skills, please see these articles provided by Michigan State University Extension:

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Kentwood busy this summer with park improvements, forming new rec committee

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, WKTV Journal In Focus,
One of Kentwood’s largest projects is at the Old Farm Park, where an entirely new building is being constructed. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

This is a busy summer for the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department, and we are not just talking about the opening of the summer concert series next week or the opening of new beach volleyball and “football bowling” areas later in the month, let alone the upcoming July 4th day of celebration.

Work this summer is either underway or will be shortly at City of Kentwood’s Veterans Memorial Park, the Kentwood Activities Center and at Old Farm Park. But the city is also looking even farther into the future with recent the formation of the Kentwood Parks, Trails and Recreation Advisory Committee.

“We are growing the parks and rec opportunities for our residents,” said Ed Kape, chairman of the Parks and Recreation Committee, and now chairman of the new advisory committee, which held its first meeting June 3.

“We are expanding and exploring other opportunities of what we can do to enhance the quality of life of our residents here in Kentwood,” Kape said to WKTV. “And it is not necessarily by games and things like that, it is by services we offer. It is by programs we offer them in the parks and rec building.”

Kape talked with WKTV in May about this season’s work and the new committee when he sat down for a WKTV Journal In Focus interview.

“Kentwood’s park system is near and dear to my heart,” Kape said, later, in supplied material. “Now we need to plan for the next 50 years and determine how we can continue to provide quality parks amenities for our community.”

The 21-member advisory committee includes broad community representation and is comprised of parks and recreation commissioners, City Commission’s AD HOC Strategic Planning Committee members, planning commissioners, residents and business owners.

The advisory committee was established to review and prioritize improvements to Kentwood’s parks, trails and recreational programming “to align with the needs of the community,” according to supplied material.

“The City Commission has asked residents to perform a needed and exciting review process,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “This level of community input is paramount to ensure detailed visionary planning is performed today to preserve Kentwood’s excellent quality of life over the next 50 years.”

The City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department oversees the city’s 14 parks and 6.5 miles of trails.

Major work at parks underway

At the Kentwood Activities Center work is underway to make the facility entrance more accessible and protective for the city’s seniors and others. (WKTV)

Summer 2019 improvements include work at the Veterans Memorial Park, where the city received a grant to “grow community engagement” for the park’s neighborhood and the city as a whole.

At the Kentwood Activities Center, a facility much used by seniors and residents of all ages, work is underway to make the facility entrance more accessible and protective for the city’s seniors.

One of the largest projects is at the Old Farm Park, where an entirely new building is being constructed with the aim for providing more amenities for family and group activities.



For more detailed information on the Kentwood Parks, Trails and Recreation Advisory Committee, see the story here.

More information about Kentwood’s 14 parks and 6.5 miles of trails is available online at kentwood.us/parks.

Kentwood launches Parks, Trails and Recreation Advisory Committee

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Recreation, Upcoming Events,
Members of the City of Kentwood’s community-based Parks, Trails and Recreation Advisory Committee. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

By City of Kentwood

 
The City of Kentwood has assembled a community-based Parks, Trails and Recreation Advisory Committee to plan for the City’s future.

“The City Commission has asked residents to perform a needed and exciting review process,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “This level of community input is paramount to ensure detailed visionary planning is performed today to preserve Kentwood’s excellent quality of life over the next 50 years.”

The advisory committee, which held its first meeting on Monday, June 3, with 21 members, was established to review and prioritize improvements to Kentwood’s parks, trails and recreational programming to align with the needs of the community.

The advisory committee provides broad community representation and is comprised of Parks and Recreation commissioners, City Commission’s AD HOC Strategic Planning Committee members, Planning commissioners, residents and business owners.

During the group’s first meeting, Ed Kape, who currently serves on Planning Commission and as chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission, was named chair of the new advisory committee. Dustin Moseley, a Parks and Recreation commissioner, was named vice chair.

“Kentwood’s park system is near and dear to my heart. Having been a part of the community for 28 years, I’ve seen how we have grown,” Kape said. “Now we need to plan for the next 50 years and determine how we can continue to provide quality parks amenities for our community. I’m excited to be involved in this process.”

Following are all advisory committee members:

Robert Coughlin, City commissioner (Strategic Planning Committee), Parks and Recreation commissioner
Jessica Dennis, Tiffin University, community member
Christopher Furner, Worksighted Inc., community member
Mark Giles, Steelcase, community member
Jill Gorkowski, Spectrum Health, community member
Maurice Groce, City commissioner (Strategic Planning Committee)
Olivia Jenison-Bailey, Parks and Recreation commissioner
Karmen Johnson, Fifth Third Bank, community member
Ed Kape, Parks and Recreation commissioner, Planning commissioner
Stephen Kepley, City of Kentwood mayor, Strategic Planning Committee member
Mimi Madden, Parks and Recreation commissioner
Wallace Massie, Parks and Recreation commissioner
Trent Meyer, Parks and Recreation commissioner
David Moore, Parks and Recreation commissioner
Dustin Moseley, Parks and Recreation commissioner
Darius Quinn, Planning commissioner
Laurie Sheldon, City of Kentwood treasurer
Adam Shilling, YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, community member
Kevin Small, Parks and Recreation commissioner
Billy Smith, retired, community member
Travis Tate, Dan Vos Construction Company, community member

The committee will hold approximately nine meetings from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of every month. Over the course of those meetings, the group will review the Parks and Recreation Business Plan, Parks Master Plan and Non-Motorized Trail Plan and recommend an implementation and sustainable funding plan to the City Commission by December 2019.

Please contact Deputy City Administrator Mark Rambo at 616-554-0770 or via email at rambom@kentwood.us for more information about the advisory committee.

Details, map presented of City of Kentwood’s Fourth of July Celebration

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events

By City of Kentwood

The City of Kentwood has a full day of activities planned for its annual Fourth of July Celebration, including a pancake breakfast, 5K race, parade, carnival and live music, leading up to fireworks at dusk.

“Kentwood’s Fourth of July celebration seems to grow and improve every year providing a great variety of activities the entire family can enjoy,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. “We welcome our friends and neighbors to join us in Kentwood as we celebrate our nation’s independence.”

To start the day off right, a pancake breakfast will be offered at Kentwood Fire Station 1, 4775 Walma Ave. SE, a new location this year. The $5 breakfast will be served from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. and include pancakes and sausage. Kids who are five years old or younger may enjoy breakfast for free.

Also beginning at 7:30 a.m., racers of all ages will gather across from Fire Station 1 for registration and packet pick-up for the NN Mobile Solutions 5K Race & Fun Walk. The chip-timed race will begin 8:30 a.m., with the start and finish line on Walma Avenue SE near Kentwood City Hall at 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Using the same course route as last year, which can be viewed online, runners will loop through neighborhoods before coming back on the East West Trail to finish.

Hundreds of spectators along the race route are anticipated. For the safety of all participants, no baby strollers, roller skates, dogs or bicycles will be allowed on the course. Awards will be given for the overall fastest male and female racers; medals will be distributed at the finish line after results are posted.

 
Following the race will be the annual parade at 9:30 a.m. The parade route also remains the same as last year, starting at Crestwood Middle School, 2674 44th St. SE. The parade will travel south on Walma Avenue SE to Breton Road SE, turn west on 52nd Street SE and end at Challenger Elementary School.

Kentwood will host its best carnival yet with bigger rides than before from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at City Hall, another new location from years past. In addition to a variety of rides, the carnival will feature giant inflatables, games and other fun activities for kids. Individual tickets will cost $1 each. Wristbands will be available for $20. The number of tickets required for each attraction will vary.

City Hall will also host the evening celebration from 4 to 10 p.m. Community booths, a beer tent and food trucks will line the lawn behind City Hall. A variety of bands, including the BareNaked 90’s, Asamu Johnson and the Associates of the Blues and Main Street Dueling Pianos, will take the stage to perform live music leading up to the fireworks show at dusk. The fireworks will be viewable from City Hall and surrounding areas.

Shortly before the fireworks go off, sections of Breton Avenue and Walma Avenue near City Hall will be temporarily closed to allow pedestrians to safely cross the street and view the show. Those sections will then be reopened about 30 minutes after the finale. If guests who are parked at City Hall or the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch need to leave while the road closures are in effect, they can either turn left onto Walma and take the roundabout out to Breton heading north, or turn left out of the library’s parking lot onto Breton heading south. The Kentwood Police Department and volunteers will be on hand to help direct traffic.

Kentwood Parks and Recreation is seeking volunteers for the Fourth of July Celebration. Those interested are encouraged to visit here or call 616-656-5270 to sign up. More information about Independence Day activities in Kentwood can be found at kentwood.us/july4.

Failures are as important as successes

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, , ,

By Sara Keinath, Michigan State University Extension


In this season of graduations and the school year ending, it is easy to focus on accomplishments and successes as we reflect on the past year as well as a student’s entire school career. However, failure is an important part of our learning process and can be a powerful educational experience. It takes some practice and humility to see failure as a good thing, as so often it is portrayed as a negative experience or something people don’t want to talk about. Teachers, coaches and 4-H leaders can help youth reframe failure and reflect on what they learned.


Think back to a time when you feel like you failed at something. Did you work on a project that didn’t turn out like you hoped? Did you plan an event that didn’t attract enough people? Did you overspend on a budget? Did you run out of food or supplies for a project? Did you say something that offended someone? Did you miss a deadline?


How did you feel immediately after the experience? How did that change over time? Often, the passage of time helps us to see how we could have done something differently to affect a different outcome, but right after the experience our feelings of shame and embarrassment may hinder our ability to learn from it. We can help change the culture of how we talk about failure so that the youth we work with can learn to see failure as part of their normal development.


Here are some common situations youth experience and some tips for how to talk about them in a way that encourages growth.


Sports team doesn’t win a game or tournament. Student doesn’t win a competition or scholarship.

  • Encourage discussion on the entire experience, not just the final result. What were the things that worked well? What did they observe the other team/contestants do well?
  • Extended activity: Good Sports Greeting Cards

Youth misses a deadline for entering a project in the fair.

  • Encourage discussion about what was learned in the project experience. What could help them meet deadlines in the future? Are there other places they could share their project besides at the fair?
  • Extended activity: Juggling with Elephants

Youth work on a community service project that didn’t raise as much money or didn’t engage as many community members as they wanted. Or perhaps they work on something where there were more people than expected and they end up overspending on a budget or didn’t buy enough supplies.

  • Encourage discussion about all the different skills learned through the project. What were the things that worked well? Where could they ask for help or more resources next time?
  • Extended activity: What/So What/Now What?

Avoid shame or blame in these discussions and pay attention to how you express your feedback. Helping youth to see what they can learn in these situations can often be as much about our phrasing and attitude as the actual questions we use. It may help to remind everyone involved about the bigger picture of learning and developing skills to be better in the future.


Learning to see failure as an experience that can teach us as much or more than a success takes practice and patience. Model this in your words and feedback to youth about their experiences, and they will be able to see the value of failure!


To learn about the positive impact of Michigan 4-H youth leadership, citizenship and service and global and cultural education programs, read our 2017 Impact Report: “MSU Extension: Developing Civically Engaged Leaders.” Additional impact reports, highlighting even more ways Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H have positively impacted individuals and communities in 2017, can be downloaded from theMSU Extension website.


Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives. For more information or resources on career exploration, workforce preparation, financial education, or entrepreneurship, contact 4-HCareerPrep@anr.msu.edu.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Kentwood plans party to open new beach volleyball, ‘fowling’ areas

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events,
Fowling is a hybrid game that combines the equipment of American football and bowling into one sport with a similar layout as horseshoes and cornhole. (Wikipedia Commons)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

Reacting to increased public demand as well as the latest community recreation trends, the City of Kentwood will unveil four competition-grade beach volleyball courts and outdoor fowling lanes at a community event later this month.

Located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE, near the Kentwood Department of Public Works, the new facility will officially open with a grand opening on Friday, June 21, at 6 p.m., with with music, a food truck and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“We have experienced a growing need for additional beach volleyball courts within the community and are excited to grow our recreational offerings,” Val Romeo, director of Kentwood Parks and Recreation, said in supplied material. “We are proud to offer new high-quality sand courts right here in Kentwood. We are also excited to include fowling — an activity that’s growing in popularity.”

Fowling is a hybrid game that combines the equipment of American football and bowling into one sport with a similar layout as horseshoes and cornhole. It is maybe best known as a pastime at football and concert tailgate parties. According to Wikipedia, fowling was founded in 2001 in Detroit. The object of fowling is for teams to be the first to knock down all opponent’s pins by throwing a full-size, regulation football at 10 bowling pins positioned in a traditional bowling layout.

Following the new facility’s ribbon-cutting, volleyball teams of four will compete in a co-ed volleyball tournament. Those interested in signing up for the tournament, or a variety of competitive and recreational beach volleyball leagues set to begin July 15, can sign up at kentwoodvolleyball or by calling 616-656-5270.

For the opening day tournament at the volleyball courts, participating teams can pre-register online for $25. Day-of-event registration will cost $35. All teams are also encouraged to bring a donation of canned goods to benefit Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.

The city’s parks department plans to have the fowling lanes available for open play during volleyball league games on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights.

For more information on the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department and its many programs, visit kentwood.us .

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know — the weekend edition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Recreation, , , , , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org


Quote of the Day

“I go to Costco every weekend. It’s my favorite part of the week.”

~ Jimmy Kimmel

Kicking off so you can
kick up your heels

Circle June 4th on your calendar. That’s the date Concerts in the Park kicks off with local favorite Midlife Crisis, a classic rock band that was formed in 2001. The free, nine-week summer concert series held at 7pm Tuesdays at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW, features a wide variety of musical styles, interactive themes, and local food vendors. More info here.

Summer reads
make me feel fine

Summer reading at KDL starts Monday, June 3 this year and runs through Saturday, Aug. 10. Sign up online at READsquared or pick up a paper form at your nearest KDL branch. Log your summer reading activity and earn prizes! Get more info here.

More active souls ought to check out the third annual Liquid Force Field Day on Saturday, June 1 at Action Wake Park, 3320 Hudson Trails Dr., Hudsonville, MI 49426. It’s a great opportunity to try Action Wake Park completely free of cost. Here is more info.

Fun fact:

25 years

Up to 25 years is the jail sentence you’ll get if you cut down a cactus in Arizona. Talk about harsh.

No respect. None. Zip. Zero.

Transition to summertime

3-bottom, How-To's, Kids Activities, ,
Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Carrie Shrier, Michigan State University Extension


All across the country, children are wrapping up their school year. Final projects are turned in, the last concert of the year is performed and awards banquets are being held. Soon the bell will ring on the end of the year and children will be home for the summer.


This is a fun time, but it is also a time of transition. Transitions, both positive and negative, can be challenging times for children and their parents. What can you do to help your family successfully get into the summer routine and limit the beginning of summer chaos? Michigan State University Extension offers the following tips for summer success.

Allow for time to settle into the routine

It’s easy to think that with school out, the pressure is off, and kids should be relaxed and happy. The truth is that it isn’t always that easy. School ending abruptly changes a child’s routine and structure to their day. They miss their friends, they worry about the upcoming school year, they’re bored with long days ahead and (seemingly) nothing to do, or suddenly they’re spending an awful lot of time with their siblings. Expect the first few weeks of summer to be bumpy for children.


Set aside time for a family meeting to plan for a successful summer. What do your children want and need in the summer months? Perhaps it’s siblings respecting the private space of their bedroom or being allowed to wait until late morning to start chores. Allow children to share their feelings and be heard.

Establish rules and guidelines together

Clear expectations and boundaries for children help them be successful. What do you expect your children to do each day in the summer? How much screen time is allowed? Can screen time come before chores or is it after chores only? When can they go play with friends? How far can they go from home when playing outside?

Maintain a routine and bedtime

Routines do not have to mean firm schedules. It’s OK to let children stay up late catching fireflies or sitting around the campfire once and a while. However, maintaining predictable routines and schedules is helpful for children. They might not tell you they enjoy the routine, but knowing what comes next is a safe and predictable feeling for children. They know what to expect and when to expect it. Stick with a reasonable bedtime and support your child getting adequate sleep every night. Blackout blinds or curtains can help children fall asleep when it is still daylight and sleep in later in the morning.

Stay busy, but not too busy

Summer is a great time to be outside playing with friends and family. Schedule fun outings, camps and other activities, but don’t forget to let your child have time to just play at home. Play allows children to use creativity, imagination, dexterity as well as physical, cognitive, social and emotional skills. Authentic play experiences are essential to healthy development. Try to make time for your child to just play.

Keep learning alive

Don’t let the summer months mean an end to educational activities. Take time this summer to read with your children and engage in other learning focused activities. Sign up for the library summer reading program, go on nature walks, explore state parks. Keeping your children learning and engaged through the summer is the key to preventing summer learning loss and ensuring your children are ready to succeed at school in the fall.


Take time to plan ahead for a successful summer with your family. Include your children in creating their summer plans. Find out what they would like to do and schedule in their desired activities. Expect your children to contribute at home. Limit technology and encourage play. Relax, and enjoy your summer!


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).


Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, How-To's, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain”

~Bob Marley
Tons of talent in one colorful exhibition

Dreaming, thinking
ready for my happy day*

‘Livin’ Is Easy’ summertime exhibition opens June 1st at LowellArts. Feast your senses on depictions of beautifully weathered objects; local Michigan waterways; animal and aquatic life forms; and whimsical figurative work. More details here. *Lyrics from Uriah Heep’s Easy Livin’.

Ready for some summertime fun?

Don’t settle for the
summertime blues

Soon the bell will ring on the end of the year and children will be home for the summer. Follow these handy-dandy tips to avoid the summertime blues. More here.

Look! It’s the International Space Station!

We are all made of stars

A gentle reminder that on Wednesday, May 29 (Hey! That’s tomorrow!), WKTV Government 26 will be featuring live coverage of the International Space Station Russian Spacewalk. Read all about it right here. Don’t miss it!

Fun fact:

3%

That’s how much more milk cows produce when they listen to relaxing music. Just ask the researchers at the University of Leicester. And then there is 2% milk, which is generally available at your local grocer’s. Has nothing to do with music, though.


(Do these look like Guernsey cows to you?)

The Ingenues, an all-girl band and vaudeville act, serenade the cows in the University of Wisconsin, Madison’s dairy barn in 1930. The show was apparently part of an experiment to see whether the soothing strains of music boosted the cows’ milk production. Go here to read the NPR story about it.
Angus B. McVicar/Wisconsin Historical Society



Meijer Gardens Tuesday Evening Music Club features 10 local-talent shows

Entertainment, Food, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events
The family friendly Tuesday Evening Music Club is always an excuse to dance a little. (Supplied/Meijer Gardens)


By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park recently announced its 10-show lineup for the Tuesday Evening Music Club, which brings local and regional musicians to the Amphitheater stage starting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday evenings throughout July and August, with a special “dress rehearsal” concert set for June 4 with the amphitheater plaza gates open at 5 p.m. and the show beginning at 7 p.m.

May Erlewine and The Motivations, June 4 at 7 p.m. (Supplied)

Concert goers who are not members of the Gardens will need a regular admission ticket but they can purchase that at the new box office at the amphitheater. But for that one night only, the venue will feature 50 percent off all food at the new concessions building as the Gardens unveils the amphitheater expansion and upgrades.

The Tuesday-night concerts — free to Meijer Gardens members and included with gardens admission for other guests — feature with a diverse schedule of live bands and programming ranging from jazz to indie, rock to folk, and even ballet. And there will be more to like off the stage as well.

The amphitheater has undergone significant expansion and improvement over the past two seasons, while maintaining the intimacy of the 1,900-seat venue.

A new concessions building has been added this season, with increased capacity for quicker food and beverage service, an improved point-of-sale system with quick chip technology to speed up purchases. and new restrooms outside of the entry gates for guests waiting in line. An expanded plaza area with additional entry gates will help shorten lines and wait times.

Meijer Gardens also announced two new series sponsors for the Tuesday Evening Music Club: Meyer Music and Michigan Radio 104.1 FM join WYCE and Corporate Live as partners for the series. Meyer Music will be bringing various instruments each week for guests to enjoy in a hands-on, “instrument petting zoo” at each concert.

 
The 2019 Tuesday Evening Music Club lineup includes:

May Erlewine and The Motivations, June 4 at 7 p.m.

Roosevelt Diggs and Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, July 2 at 7 p.m.
     
Big Sherb and Paddlebots, July 9 at 7 p.m.

Matt Gabriel and Kari Lynch Band, July 16 at 7 p.m.

Boy From School and Manhattan, July 23 at 7 p.m.

Franklin Park and 6-Pak, July 30 at 7 p.m.

The Hip Pocket and Soul Syndicate, Aug. 6 at 7 p.m.

The River Rogues Jazz Band and Sam’s Swing Band, Aug. 13 at 7 p.m.

Grand Rapids Ballet, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. This program will employ a full company of dancers performing works by some of today’s most in-demand choreographers. A mix of classical and contemporary ballets, including Trey McIntyre’s Wild Sweet Love, featuring the music of Queen, Lou Reed, Felix Mendelssohn and many more.

Local favorite Ralston Bowles likes to share the stage. (Supplied)

Ralston & Friends, Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. Local favorite Ralston Bowles shares the stage with friends and collaborators from the community and beyond.


For more information on concerts at Meijer Gardens, visit meijergardens.org.

Snapshots: Kentwood, Wyoming fun things to do this weekend

3-bottom, Community Health, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation

By WKTV Staff
Ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“My artist's statement explains, my work is utterly incomprehensible and is therefore fun of deep significance.”
 
                     ― Calvin (of Calvin and Hobbes)
Maya Lin, Blue Lake Pass, 2006. Duraflake particleboard (Courtesy Pace Gallery)

New show at the GRAM

The Kent County Parks and the Kent County Parks Foundation invites all county residents to DISCOVER! Millennium Park, a free, fun, and educational program for all ages Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hansen Nature Trail at Millennium Park (at the corner of Riverbend Drive and Butterworth). For the complete story, visit here.

Supplied (Kent County Parks)

County’s Millennium Park event

The Kent County Parks and the Kent County Parks Foundation invites all county residents to DISCOVER! Millennium Park, a free, fun, and educational program for all ages Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hansen Nature Trail at Millennium Park (at the corner of Riverbend Drive and Butterworth). For the compete story, visit here.

Local high school baseball and softball action is on the schedule for the WKTV sports coverage team. (Supplied)

High School Sports in the sun

There is plenty of spring baseball and softball games as part of the weekend’s high school sports action all over the Wyoming and Kentwood area, so check out something live if you can. For the complete story, visit here.

Fun fact:

158 days

On average, there are 158 sunny days per year in Grand Rapids. The US average is 205 sunny days. Don’t waste one. (Source)

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know — the weekend edition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, Upcoming Events, ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“The Sixties are now considered a historical period,
just like the Roman Empire.“

~Dave Barry


The Vibe keynote speaker Josh George, a six-time Paralympic world champion and world record holder. (Courtesy/Josh George’s website)

I’m pickin’ up good vibrations

Get your tickets TODAY if you plan to attend The Vibe, a gala benefiting Kentwood Parks and Recreation’s adaptive recreation programs, on Friday, May 17. The Vibe will highlight the City’s adaptive water sports programs, which include kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, wake boarding and water skiing for all ages and abilities. Tickets for the semi-formal event are $100 per person and can be purchased online at kentwoodvibe.com or by calling 616-656-5270. More on the story here.


Tickets must be purchased in advance by Friday, May 10.


These boots are made for walkin’ (well…)

It’s not only elite athletes and experienced runners who are preparing for this weekend’s 42nd River Bank Run. For the ninth year, former and current residents of Dégagé Ministries Open Door Women’s Center will participate in the Amway River Bank 5k Walk. Dégagé’s walking group, the ‘Heartside All Stars for Health’, is a group of approximately 12 women who have overcome or are working to overcome things like poverty, addiction and homelessness. With the support of Dégagé’s staff and volunteers, the organization’s walking group totals nearly 30 people. For more information, go here.



Courtesy Air Zoo

Can’t get no satisfaction?
Check out these six destinations

Bored? Don’t be. The Air Zoo, Binder Park Zoo, Gilmore Car Museum, Kalamazoo Nature Center, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Kellogg Biological Station (KBS) Bird Sanctuary and Manor House are partnering for the sixth year of the Southwest Michigan Cultural Membership Exchange. Guests presenting a valid membership card and photo ID from any of these organizations can enjoy free admission at any of the six destinations May 1–31. More here.


Fun fact:

$4,743

That’s what the average salary was in the U.S. in the 1960s. But then, a loaf of bread was 45 cents, the average new car cost $2,752, and gas was about 31 cents a gallon. Ah, yes. The good, old days.

1963 AMC Rambler American


Special sporting community events at Wyoming, Wyoming Lee this weekend

Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Kids Activities, Recreation, Sports,
A banner donated by Grandville High School for the 2016 event. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The weather is supposed to be nice this weekend, and if you are into high school sports there will be two special Wyoming events — Wolves softball and baseball, and Rebel girls soccer — that will be both be great for viewers but also great for the community.

Wyoming High School will host Grandville High School in the Annual Christy Paganelli baseball/softball game Friday, May 10, at Pinery Park. The annual benefit games between teams from the neighboring high schools “celebrate life while bringing awareness to the importance of fighting cancer.”

The Christy Paganelli Softball Player Introduction Ceremony will begin at 5:30 p.m., with baseball introduction at 5:45 p.m.

 
The annual Christy’s Cause Scholarship Baseball and Softball Games honors “the person and the spirit” of Christy Paganelli, who lost a courageous 18-month battle with melanoma.

The event recognizes all cancer awareness and prevention, and is committed to making sure everyone is aware that melanoma skin cancer can happen to anyone and how to prevent it.

All funds will be directed towards cancer research and the Christy Paganelli Scholarship Fund, which funds one or two scholarships each year at Aquinas College, where Christy played softball after playing and graduating from Wyoming’s Rogers High School.

 
The events will begin with a junior varsity baseball game at 3:15 p.m., followed by twin varsity softball and baseball games at 6 p.m.

Pinery Park is located at 2301 De Hoop Ave, Wyoming.

Cope Rebelde soccer tournament at Lee

The Lee Rebel “Copa Rebelde Soccer Invite” will be held Saturday, May 11, at the Lee Athletic Fields.

The girls soccer tournament is a three-match event starting with West Michigan Aeronautics Academy vs. Lee at 9:30 a.m.; Wyoming Potter’s House vs. WMAA at 11 a.m. (or 15 minutes after end of game 1); Lee vs Potter’s House at 12:30 p.m. (or 15 minutes after end of game #2). Each game will be 60 minutes in length, with 30 minute halves, 10 minute halftimes, and 15 minutes between games.

There will be no overtime so tie games decided by penalty shoot-outs —which are always exciting — and the champion will be determined by record then point differential.

And while the event should feature some great tournament soccer action, it will also be a Latino community celebration of sorts.

“We are lucky to have a team and community that can embrace their cultural heritage as much as they do,” the Lee soccer coach said to WKTV last year. “Copa is ultimately just a word but that word represents more than a tournament cup. It represents our small community’s strong ties with Latin America.”

The Lee Athletic Fields are located at 1824 Godfrey Ave. SW, Wyoming.

For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know

3-bottom, Books, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“There’s no fear when you’re having fun.“

~Will Thomas



A few wrinkles in time

Older Michigangians Day, on May 15th, is an opportunity for Michigan seniors to speak with a united voice about the issues that directly affect them. It is also an opportunity to meet new people and enjoy a beautiful day in our State’s capitol. Call Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan to register at (616) 222-7042. Go here for more info.



So good, you can’t
read just one

“You just really can’t replace putting a book in a kid’s hands,” said district Superintendent Kevin Polston at a recent celebration of literacy” at the Early Childhood Center in Wyoming. “There is something special about touching, feeling, seeing the pictures, and engaging with the book. We know there is value to that.” Read all about it here.



Life’s too short, so go on …
have some fun

Experience Grand Rapids (EXGR) invites locals to explore the Grand Rapids area during National Travel and Tourism Week through May 11th using EXGR resources such as Culture Pass GR and Vamonde. Check it out here.

Fun fact:

Details, details

There is actually a difference between coffins and caskets — coffins are typically tapered and six-sided, while caskets are rectangular.



But in the end, does it really matter?



Do your parenting practices contribute to bullying behaviors?

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, How-To's, Kids Activities, ,

By Karen Pace, Michigan State University Extension


Most parents don’t want to think that their own parenting practices are contributing to issues of bullying in the lives of their kids. In her book Bullied: What Every Parent, Teacher and Kid Needs to Know About Ending the Cycle of Fear, author Carrie Goldman draws from the work of several scholars and shares information on parenting practices that can help prevent bullying – as well as those that can actually foster bullying behaviors.


Goldman cautions parents to be mindful of the ways that they may inadvertently put pressure on their children to be “popular” or to be liked by other kids, which can put kids at risk for being involved with bullying.


For example, if we have a habit of judging others (or ourselves) based on appearance (saying for example, “She has put on so much weight and is getting really fat!”), we model for children that being disrespectful and judging others based on their appearance is okay. One of the reasons this is so critical is that children in one comprehensive study said that physical appearance is the number one reason kids get bullied or called names.


Children take in verbal and non-verbal messages (for good or for ill) from their parents and other adults around them. These messages too often make young people feel pressured to “fit in” in ways that are not healthy to their overall identities around physical appearance, gender, skin color, sexuality and other aspects of themselves. Feeling pressured to fit in at all costs can lead youth (and adults) to participate in unhealthy relationships – or go along with the crowd in the face of hurtful, mean-spirited behaviors.


When kids are the target of bullying behaviors, they may feel shame, assume it’s their fault, blame themselves or internalize the damaging messages. Parents, families and adults in kids’ lives have important roles to play in helping kids develop resiliency by understanding the difference between fitting in and belonging.


Another way parents can foster resilient kids in the face of bullying is to practice what researcher and educator, Brené Brown calls “wholehearted parenting.”  Dr. Brown’s research on shame, vulnerability and courage illuminates several ways that parents can engage in wholehearted parenting with a focus on raising children who move through the world with courage and resiliency in the face of bullying and other challenging situations.


Goldman encourages parents to take issues of bullying seriously and resist the urge to label or dismiss their kid’s concerns as childhood “drama.” She urges parents to be present with their children by asking them open-ended questions, allowing them to talk, listening deeply and encouraging discussion about mutually acceptable solutions.


Michigan State University Extension provides opportunities for parents, youth workers and other adults to learn more about issues of bullying and ways to create safe, affirming and fair environments with and on behalf of young people.  For more information, check out a new initiative called Be SAFE: Safe, Affirming and Fair Environments.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Top 8 helmet stats aimed at saving your brain

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, , ,

“Lead by example and keep your kids safe by requiring them to always wear a helmet when riding.” (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Jodi Stanley, Spectrum HealthBeat

The joy of bicycles is a beautiful thing.

Great exercise, endless games and the freedom to “travel” as a kid.

But before the kids flip up the kickstands for the season, hit the brakes for a minute.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration urges everyone to remember that bicycles aren’t toys—they are vehicles, officially—and even experienced riders should do what they can to minimize risk.

Applying that perspective to your family’s youthful riders should motivate every family to do what we can to prepare and prevent accidents before they happen.

And while it might seem about as fun as a flat tire, knowing, understanding, and taking steps to prevent bicycle mishaps now can make a smooth, happy ride for the rest of the summer.

“Bike riding is a great family activity,” said Jennifer Hoekstra, program coordinator of Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Injury Prevention Program and Safe Kids Greater Grand Rapids.

“Lead by example and keep your kids safe by requiring them to always wear a helmet when riding.”

Why wear a helmet?

Consider these facts about bicycles, kids and injuries from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and www.helmets.org:

  • Helmet use is lowest (for all ages) among children ages 11 to 14.
  • Bicycle helmets have been shown to reduce the risk of head injury and the risk of brain injury.
  • The Center for Head Injury Services reports that 85 percent of all head injuries in bicycle accidents can be prevented by wearing a helmet.
  • Bicycle helmets have also been shown to offer substantial protection to the forehead and midface.
  • Universal use of bicycle helmets by children ages 4 to 15 could prevent between 135 and 155 deaths, between 39,000 and 45,000 head injuries, and between 18,000 and 55,000 scalp and face injuries annually.
  • Child helmet ownership and use increases with the parent’s income and education level, yet decreases with the child’s age.
  • Children are more likely to wear a bicycle helmet if riding with others who are also wearing one.
  • In a national survey of children ages 8 to 12, 53 percent reported that a parental rule for helmet use would persuade them to wear a helmet, and 49 percent would wear a helmet if a state or community law required it.

Bicycle helmet use by every rider, of every age, for every ride should be every family’s rule.

Kids may think they look “babyish” or “uncool” with a helmet. Teach them it’s just the opposite.

When possible, let them pick out their own helmet or add flair if it helps them get into it. And if they still hate it? Tell them it’s the rule to ride and stick with it.

When parents ride without helmets, kids are quick to copy. They may wonder why, if it is a big deal, mom and dad aren’t wearing them, too. The moral of the story is everybody should wear a helmet, every ride.

It’s a no brainer

Correct fit and proper positioning are essential to the effectiveness of bike helmets at reducing injury.

One study found that children whose helmets fit poorly are at twice the risk of head injury in a crash compared to children whose helmet fit is excellent. In addition, children who wear their helmets tipped back on their heads have a 52 percent greater risk of head injury than those who wear their helmets centered on their heads.

“Remember, it can only protect their head if they wear it correctly each and every time they ride,” Hoekstra added.

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum HealthBeat.

Early childhood education millage use plan approved by Kent County commissioners

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Kids Activities, Non-Profits,
An estimated 45,000 children in Kent County are below age 5. Too many of them and their parents need help so they can be healthy and prepared for kindergarten, according to early childhood advocates. (Supplied/First Steps Kent)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Board of Commissioners last week approved First Steps Kent’s proposal to administer the countywide Ready by Five millage and to push forward a plan distribute the funds intended “to help young children be ready for school success” by “support young children and their families across the community.”

The action took place at the April 25 Board of Commissioners meeting. In November 2018, county voters approved the millage, which will provide more than $5.5 million annually for enhanced early childhood services.

“We are excited to work with First Steps and the broader community to increase community based, early childhood services,” Wayman Britt, County Administrator/Controller, said in supplied information. “The Ready by Five funds will allow us to reach children and their families early in life when brain development and social/emotional bonding are critical. We have confidence that First Steps and the system that is being created will ensure that the resources are directed where it can have a significant impact.”

The millage will support programs that improve the healthy development and school readiness of children ages zero to five. The funding will be distributed to community-based organizations across the county that provide services such as in-home parenting support, developmental screenings, play and learn groups, and outreach to “ensure families know what is available and have access to the services that best meet their needs,” according to supplied material.

A review board comprised of parents, Kent County commissioners, a First Steps Kent board member, and a community member with early childhood expertise will review proposals from service providers and make recommendations about which programs and services should be funded. The first round of funding will be awarded this fall.

“We are fortunate in Kent County to have innovative and effective early childhood programs that are getting great results,” Annemarie Valdez, president and CEO of First Steps Kent, said in supplied material. “The Ready by Five Millage will allow many more children and families in our community to benefit from those services. We again want to thank the voters of Kent County, who recognize this is an investment that will pay off for our community.”

The statement from Kent County stated that research shows money invested in high quality early childhood programs saves money down the road with reduced costs for child welfare, education, health care, and criminal justice. All programs funded by the Ready by Five Millage will be evaluated to measure their impact. Those results will be shared with the public. Kent County is the first county in Michigan to have local tax dollars dedicated to early childhood.

First Steps Kent is an independent nonprofit leading a community-wide effort to build a comprehensive early childhood system in Kent County. A comprehensive system requires that programs, policies, and supports are in place to help all young children and their families thrive.

For more information on First Steps Kent visit firststepskent.org .

Calling all makers! Grand Rapids Mini Maker Faire returns for sixth year

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Recreation, Senior Living,
Photo supplied

By Christie Bender, Grand Rapids Public Museum


The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) just announced the 6th annual Grand Rapids Mini Maker Faire on Saturday, Aug. 24 and Sunday, Aug. 25.  The Call for Makers is now open for makers to register their projects.  


Maker Faire celebrates community members who are making or creating things by inviting them to share with the public what they have made! Everyone is a maker, and unfinished products are also encouraged.


Individuals and groups can now sign up at GrandRapids.MakerFaire.com. This year’s Maker Faire will be held at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.


Maker Faire is looking for participants who enjoy tinkering, hacking, building and designing new technology-based inventions. Any groups or individuals interested in participating in the Maker Faire should complete the application at GrandRapids.MakerFaire.com. The Call for Makers will close on July 31, 2019.


Spots are first-come, first-serve basis with openings inside the GRPM as well as outside on the GRPM’s lawn. Makers’ participation is free for those showcasing! Makers interested in selling products at their booth require a small commercial fee.


Part science fair, part county fair, and part something entirely new, Maker Faire is an all-ages gathering that celebrates community members who are making things. All of these “makers” come to Maker Faire to show what they have made and to share what they have learned.


Featuring both established and emerging local “makers,” the Grand Rapids Maker Faire is a family-friendly celebration featuring tech enthusiasts, crafters, educators, hobbyists, engineers, artists, students and commercial exhibitors.


The Faire will be open 10am to 5pm on Saturday, Aug. 24 and Sunday, Aug. 25. Tickets will go on sale early summer.


The Grand Rapids Mini Maker Faire is being organized by a collaborative committee that includes members from: DTE Energy, Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Valley State University, Lakeshore Fab Lab at Muskegon Community College, Kent District Library, Kent Intermediate School District, WMCAT, Great Lakes Makers and the Grand Rapids Public Museum.


The 6th annual Grand Rapids Maker Faire is sponsored by: Maker Media Inc., Gentex Corporation, Kent Intermediate School District and Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown.

Improvements started at Kentwood’s Veterans Memorial and Old Farm parks

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Kids Activities, Recreation, Sports
City of Kentwood Veterans Park, at 331 48th St. SE, will be the location of improvements this year. (WKTV)

By City of Kentwood

Exciting changes are coming to Kentwood parks this fall with several construction projects now underway.

Major improvements will bring a new splash pad and playground to Veterans Memorial Park, a covered entry to the Kentwood Activities Center and a new multi-use facility at Old Farm Park.

“As construction gets underway, we ask the community to please pardon our dust and anticipate that some park amenities will be unavailable this summer,” said Val Romeo, Parks and Recreation director. “We are looking forward to opening the new and improved facilities in the fall and appreciate your patience as we make our facilities more accessible, functional and fun.”

The City received a grant to grow community engagement at Veterans Memorial Park, located at 335 48th St. Pending Kent County approval, construction is tentatively set to begin in June and is slated for completion in November. Proposed improvements include a new splash pad with a hexagonal shelter and a new restroom/changing area that will include room for programming, storage and concessions. An additional large shelter, decorative lighting, picnic tables, trash receptacles and bike racks will also be provided.

 
During construction, the north end of the park, which includes the north playground and swings, north soccer field, tennis, futsal and basketball courts will all remain available for use, as well as the walking path along the creek, the Kentwood Activities Center and the majority of the parking lot. The shelter, splash pad, south playground, sand volleyball courts and south soccer field will be unavailable during construction.

Improvements to the Kentwood Activities Center, also located at 355 48th St., will include a new entrance portico, digital entrance sign and new windows on the front of the existing building.

 
“Many seniors visit the Kentwood Activities Center to participate in our programs,” Romeo said. “The addition of an entrance portico is an accessibility improvement with that population in mind. By protecting the entrance from rain and snow, patrons will be able to come and go without the worry of navigating slippery pavement.”

The new digital entrance sign will improve public awareness of events and allow the staff to change messages quickly. Replacing the original windows on the building will improve energy efficiency leading to positive environmental impacts.

Construction began the week of April 8 and is slated for completion in late June. The Kentwood Activities Center will remain open throughout the project. On May 3, the Parks and Recreation Department’s power will be turned off for electrical work, which will interrupt phone service. During the week of May 6, the front entry will be closed, but alternate entrances will be made available to the public.

Construction of the new multi-use building at Old Farm Park, located at 2350 Embro Drive SE, is set to begin May 2 and be completed in September. The building will have four family-style restrooms, along with room for programming and storage space. Other improvements include an enhanced central gathering space, new water main to serve the building, infrastructure for a potential future splash pad, trail replacement, landscaping and installation of irrigation.

 
During construction at Old Farm Park, the disc golf course, all four pickleball courts, basketball courts and small play structure will be available, as well as the walking path through the field around the park. However, the walking path along the parking lot, and the swings will be unavailable during the project.

 
“While some park amenities will be unavailable throughout this summer during construction, this is a great opportunity for the community to explore some of Kentwood’s other parks and trails,” Romeo said. “We have lots to offer at our community-wide system of parks and trails.”

 
Other Kentwood parks and trails include:

Bowen Station Park – 4499 Bowen Blvd. SE
Burgis Park – 4554 Burgis Ave.
East Paris Nature Park – East Paris Ave.
East West Trail – 4998 Kalamazoo Ave. SE
Home Acres Park – 145 Farnham St.
Jaycee Park – 1088 Gentian Drive SE
Kellogg Woods Park – 275 Kellogg Woods Park Drive SE
Northeast Park – 1900 Middleground Drive SE
Paris Park – 3213 60th St. SE
Paul Henry Trail – Runs through 44th Street SE and Kalamazoo Avenue south to 60th Street and Wing Avenue
Pinewood Park – 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE
Rondo Street Station Park – 1950 Gerda Ave. SE
Stanaback Park – 3717 Whitebud Drive
Stauffer Station Park – 2360 52nd St. SE
Summerwood Park – 4689 Summer Creek Lane SE
Wing Station – 5931 Wing Ave. SE

More information about Kentwood’s 14 parks and 6.5 miles of trails is available online at kentwood.us/parks.

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood (fun) things to do this weekend

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Food, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , ,

By WKTV Staff
Ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“We're all in the same boat ready to float off the edge of the world. The flat old world.”
 
                     ― The Band (from the song "Life is a Carnival")

Wyoming’s annual Spring Carnival will open this weekend at Lamar Park. (Supplied)

Life is a carnival

West Michigan families are invited to come out to Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St SW, and enjoy carnival rides, food, and games April 26 – May 5. The carnival will be open Monday through Thursday from 4–8:30 p.m., Friday from 2– 8:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon–8:30 p.m. For the complete story, visit here.



VeggieCon is coming to Kentwood this weekend. (Supplied)

Eat your veggies!

VeggieCon, an event to educate the community more about healthy options, is coming at Encounter Church, 4620 Kalamazoo Ave. SE., Kentwood, on Saturday, April 27. 10 am. to 2 p.m. Along with many family friendly activities, there will be April 27, there will be a fresh produce display on site so people can see what produce is available at local farm stands. For the complete story, visit here.


This strange creature is part of Grand Rapids Public Museum’s “Expedition: Dinosaur exhibition” (Supplied/GRPM)

(Strange) creature comforts

The Grand Rapids Public Museum’s “Expedition: Dinosaur exhibition” has been extended, so visitors can now explore the fascinating world of dinosaurs and the hunt for their fossils through May 12. This exhibit has something for all ages, from life-sized and life-like animatronic dinosaurs – some controlled by visitors – to mechanical and electronic learning stations. For the complete story, visit here.



Fun fact:

240 million years

You may know that the world was full of dinosaurs 99 million years ago, but crocodilian creatures, including current crocodiles themselves – have been on Earth for an estimated 240 million years. Talk about adaptable! (Source)

Questions in block play can support mathematical learning

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Education, How-To's, Kids Activities, ,

By Kevin Zoromski, Michigan State University Extension

 


Playing with blocks is one of the most satisfying and fun ways to interact with your child while teaching important skills to enhance their language, social, emotional, cognitive and motor development. Block play can help to increase vocabulary, math, science and overall physical development. In this series of articles, you will learn some specific questions to use to interact with your child using blocks to increase their developmental skills.


There are many ways to increase mathematical skills and knowledge by playing with blocks. Playing with blocks can increase the ability to understand sizes, shapes and patterns. Block play can also lead to increased skills in counting, adding, subtracting and sorting. As you use blocks to play with your children, be aware of some important and fun questions you can ask to support their learning and increasing of mathematical skills.


Questions for learning about counting with blocks:

  • How many blocks do you have?
  • Can we count how many blocks you have?
  • How many square blocks? How many circle blocks?
  • What color blocks do you have?
  • Do you have a red block? Do you have a blue block?
  • How many red (blue, green, orange, etc.) blocks are there?

Questions for learning about patterns with blocks:

  • Can you make a pattern with…? (choose two color or two shape blocks)
  • What comes next in the pattern? (example: red, blue, red, blue)
  • How can you continue the pattern?

Questions for learning about shapes with blocks:

  • Can you pick up a round block? Can you pick up a square block?
  • Can you find a block shaped like a triangle? Can you find a block shaped like a circle?
  • What shapes are you using to build your castle (tower, house, etc.)?

Questions for learning about sizes with blocks:

  • How tall can you build your block tower?
  • Which block is the smallest? Which block is the biggest?
  • Which block is smaller? Which block is bigger?
  • Can you build a castle/tower larger than the one you just built?
  • Can you find the smallest block and place it on top?

Questions for learning about sorting with blocks:

  • Can you put all the yellow (red, blue, green, etc.) blocks right here?
  • Can you put all the red blocks in the bucket? All the green blocks? All the blue blocks?
  • Can you line up all the small blocks? Can you line up all the big blocks?
  • Can you line up all the blocks from smallest to biggest? Biggest to smallest?

Questions for learning about adding using blocks:

  • How tall will your tower be if you add two more blocks?
  • How many orange (red, blue, yellow, etc.) blocks will you have if you add one more?
  • How many red (blue, green, yellow, etc.) blocks will you have if you take one away?

Using any of these questions while playing with blocks can help a child increase their knowledge and excitement of math. Beginning to learn math at an early age can help create pathways in the brain for children to have a greater chance of being successful at learning higher math skills later in life. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) provides many activities, ideas and articles for playful math learning and is a great place to find extra resources for helping children increase their learning in mathematics.

For more information on developing math skills, please see these articles by Michigan State University Extension:

Toddlers rule at mealtime when no rules exist

3-bottom, Food, How-To's, Kids Activities, ,
Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Christi Demitz, Michigan State University Extension


Toddlers do not have control over much in their lives, but they do control what goes into, and comes out of, their mouths at mealtime. For this reason, many parents find mealtimes challenging when trying to feed a toddler. Out of frustration, parents may serve only the foods the child likes in order to get the child to eat. When you think about it, it does make sense that many toddlers are picky eaters because they are being introduced to new foods that have unfamiliar tastes, textures and smells compared to the breast milk or formula given during the first year of life. Parents can teach healthy eating habits during mealtime by offering a variety of foods to eat, adjusting their mealtime expectations and allowing the toddler some freedom to decide how much to eat. 


Toddlers start eating solid food when their growth starts to slow, but nutrition remains very important. Making mealtime a family affair sets a good example for toddlers as parents and siblings model healthy eating. Kids are more likely to eat more fruits and vegetables when they eat meals with their family. Resist the urge to only feed them their favorite food at every meal or rewarding them with dessert. Instead, prepare and serve healthy meals and let them choose what they want to eat. Keep offering unfamiliar foods. The more young children are offered foods, the more likely they will taste it and eventually learn to like it. 


Consider these tips to get your toddler to eat more than just their favorite food at mealtimes. 


Serving size for toddlers. The United States Department of Agriculture recommends that two year olds get 1,000 calories a day from a variety of sources from each food group. Serving a tablespoon or two of an unfamiliar food can encourage your toddler to try a bite rather than having an overwhelming mound of squash or other unknown food on his or her plate. 


Positive peers. When toddlers see someone their size eating fruits and vegetables, they are more likely to try them too. Look for opportunities for your toddler to eat with friends. Children also learn by watching you, so set a good example by eating the same food you’re serving your toddler.


Feed themselves. Your toddler should try using a spoon or fork by 15-18 months. Toddlers should try to feed themselves, with assistance from mom or dad when needed. Letting children feed themselves helps them to learn the cues of hunger and fullness.


Regular meal and snack times. Having regular meal and snack times helps establish a routine. If toddlers refuse a meal, having regular meal and snack times helps kids manage hunger because they learn when to expect food during the day. It is not advisable to allow kids to eat on demand, because they will not learn the cues of hunger or fullness.


It is common for toddlers to be picky eaters. If your toddler is growing and has energy, he or she is probably eating enough to be healthy. If you have concerns, you should see your doctor or pediatrician. For more tips for handling picky eaters in your family the USDA has a tip sheet for picky eaters online.


Michigan State University Extension offers nutrition education for parents in counties throughout Michigan. To contact an expert in your area, visit the expert page, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Lice: What to know and what to do

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, , ,
Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Carrie Shrier, Michigan State University Extension


It is easy to panic if your child gets lice. It’s hard to feel calm about the idea of little bugs crawling around on your child’s (or your) scalp. Lice, while definitely creepy and crawly, are not dangerous and do not spread disease. The only major issue they cause is itching. So, what should a parent do to get rid of lice quickly? Michigan State University Extension offers the following tips to thoroughly eliminate lice.

Know your lice facts

Lice are tiny, wingless parasites that feed on blood. They are found on your scalp and are most easily seen at the nape of the neck and behind the ears. Head lice are common among children ages 3 to 11. They can live on all types of hair—straight, curly, dyed or natural. They are most frequently found on girls and are more prevalent among Caucasian children. Head lice do not jump, they do not live on pets and poor personal hygiene does not make someone more likely to have them.


Lice are most frequently spread by head to head contact. Less commonly, they can be spread through shared items that touch the head such has hats, combs, brushes or hair accessories. Lice do not live for more than a day off of the human body.

Signs and symptoms

Although they’re very small, lice can be seen with the naked eye. Here is what to look for:

  • People with head lice often complain of itchy, scratchy heads. This is a reaction to the saliva of the lice. Some people may feel things moving around in their hair as well. Some children may get small, red bumps from itching and scratching, especially behind their ears and around the nape of their neck.
  • Nits, or lice eggs, are often what is visible in a lice infestation instead of louse. The nits are tiny yellow, brown or tan dots. They cling to the hair shaft close to the scalp where they are warm until they hatch. They look like dandruff but can’t be easily brushed off. See a picture of nits in hair from the Mayo Clinic.
  • Adult lice and nymphs (baby lice). An adult louse is about the size of a sesame seed and is grayish white or tan. Nymphs are smaller and become an adult louse one to two weeks after they hatch.

Treatment and de-lousing

Once your child is diagnosed, it’s time to treat. There are several over-the-counter treatment options. The most commonly used medications contain pyrethins, which are made from the chrysanthemum flower. These should not be used if you or your child are allergic to chrysanthemums, mums or ragweed. Some lice have developed resistance to the commonly used medications. Learn more about medication options from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Head louse nymph

Keep these tips in mind when using medication to treat for lice:

  • Follow package directions. Creams and shampoos are typically applied directly to the hair, either dry or freshly washed (not conditioned). Apply when you or your child are full dressed and rinse into the sink or bathtub. Do not rinse off while bathing. Limit how much of the medication touches the skin.
  • After treatment, use a nit comb. Once the medication is applied and rinsed, change you or your child into clean clothes and carefully comb the hair in small sections utilizing a nit comb. Specially designed nit combs can be purchased and may be more effective. Many flea combs will also work. Separate the hair into small sections and comb the hair shaft from root to tip.
  • Wash clothing, bedding and towels. Wash items worn in the last two days by the infected person such as hats, coats, pillowcases, towels and bedding. Lice and eggs do not live long off a person and are easily killed by five minutes or greater in hot water or hot air cycles greater than 103 degrees; typically, the hot water/high temperature dry cycles are sufficient. Soak combs and brushes in hot water. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
  • Continue to check and nit comb. Repeat nit combing every two to three days to check for remaining lice and nits.
  • Many medications require retreatment seven to nine days after initial treatment. This is meant to kill newly hatched lice before they mature and lay eggs.

Avoid re-infestation

Continue to check the infected person’s hair every two to three days for two to three weeks. Reapply a second dose of the treatment if the package indicates it is required. This is because many medications only kill the live lice and not the eggs. Failure to retreat can cause a second round of lice to hatch. If you treated correctly and they are not going away, you may have lice that are resistant to the over-the-counter medications. These so-called “super lice” may require prescription medications. Follow up with your doctor for additional advice should over-the-counter treatments fail to be successful.

 

There is no need to use lice sprays or fumigate your home. Lice do not live long off the human body. Washing bedding, clothing and towels should be sufficient to kill any lice that have fallen off of the head. You can vacuum the infected person’s bed and common seating areas, but intense cleaning and household treatments are not necessary. Animals cannot get lice or spread lice. There is no additional need to treat your pets.

 

While the discovery of lice on you or your children can be alarming, there is no need to panic. They can typically be treated inexpensively and relatively quickly. With some time and focus, you’ll be back to enjoying a lice-free home again in short order.

 

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Meijer State Games of Michigan opens registration for summer games, hockey tourney

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events
Foot golf is one of the new sports at the Meijer State Games. (Supplied/CKGolf)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The Meijer State Games of Michigan 2019 Summer Games will include sport competition at various dates and locations this summer but is focused on the weekend of June 20-23 and the 2019 Opening Ceremony at Fifth Third Ballpark. Registration for most sports has opened.

The Meijer State Games of Michigan is an Olympic-style, multi-sport event that welcomes athletes regardless of age or ability level. According to supplied information, “the games embody the values of participation, sportsmanship, and healthy living among the residents of Michigan.”

Since 2010, Meijer State Games of Michigan has hosted more than 65,000 athletes and contributed over $25 million in estimated economic impact to cities throughout Michigan.

Registration rates vary between sports and can be found on each sports’ page. For more information about registration, please visit the following link .

Registered athletes for all sports will receive free admission to the Opening Ceremony and have the opportunity to walk in the athlete parade. Some sports may charge an entry fee for spectators.

Hockey tryouts are first up

Tryouts for the 2019 hockey tournament will take place in May and the tournament will take place June 20-23. This tournament will have six divisions: high school boys, high school girls, 14U boys, 14U girls, 12U, and 10U.

The fee for tryouts is $40. An additional fee of $160 will be charged to players who make the teams. This fee includes a team jersey, socks, a gift for the player and three games minimum, and admission to the Opening Ceremony.

 
“It’s cool – it’s an Olympic-style event, which is great,” David Moss, honorary chairman of the State Games hockey tournament, said in supplied material. “They do a lot of cool things for the kids, and the hockey side, we’re doing some neat things this year with ACHA coaches being involved and giving the kids the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of good coaches.”

 
For more information on this year’s hockey tournament details and registration, visit the following link .

45 sports in all will be offered

There will an estimated 8,000 plus athletes participating in more than 45 sporting events in this year’s Summer Games. The sports offered for the 2019 Summer Games include: a 5k fun, archery (3D and FITA), archery tag, badminton, baseball, basketball, BMX (freestyle and Olympic), bocce ball, bowling, boxing, cricket, cycling, disc golf, field hockey, figure skating, foot golf, golf, hockey, judo, lacrosse (girls), mountain bike, ninja warrior competition, paintball, pickleball, pinball, rowing, rugby, shooting sports, skateboarding, softball, soccer, swimming, tae-kwon-do, tennis, track & field, volleyball, waterskiing, weightlifting, and wrestling.


The Meijer State Games of Michigan is a nonprofit organization that relies heavily on the help of willing volunteers and trusted partnerships. There are also volunteer opportunities available for the Summer Games. For more information on volunteering, visit the following link .

For more information on sponsoring the Meijer State Games of Michigan, visit the following link .

For more information about the Meijer State Games of Michigan visit stategamesofmichigan.com .

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Faces, Upcoming Events, , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Look again at that dot. That’s here. That’s home. That’s us. On it everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives . . .”

~ Carl Sagan

Painting the town … purple

Because red is just so overrated. Seriously, though, Paint the Town Purple offers an opportunity to check out the artwork of some of the talented and creative students of Wyoming High School. But hurry, because it all goes away this Thursday. Go here for the deets.

“Here am I floating
’round my tin can…”

On Wednesday, April 17, WKTV will be featuring, via the NASA channel, the launch of the newest Northrup Grumman Cygnus Cargo Craft, the S.S. Roger Chaffee, to the International Space Station. For more info, go here.

Looking for a few, good members

Get involved! The Kentwood City Commission has approved a resolution to establish an advisory committee that will review and prioritize improvements to Kentwood’s parks, trails and recreational programming to align with the needs of the community. Here’s your chance to do your part! Go here to learn more.

Fun fact:

$12,000,000

That’s how much an entire NASA suit costs — just ONE suit, mind you — and 70% of that is just for the backpack and control module. And you thought a Birkin bag was expensive.

Kentwood Farmers Market seeks vendors for upcoming season

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Food, Pets/Animals, Senior Living, Upcoming Events
Vendors of all types are active at the City of Kentwood’s Farmers Market. (WKTV)

By City of Kentwood

The Kentwood Farmers Market is now accepting vendors for its fifth season, set to begin June 1. The market will take place each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in front of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, located at 4950 Breton Road SE. Vendors have the option to sign up for individual dates or for the full season, which will end Oct. 5.

The Farmers Market provides community members the opportunity to buy a variety of goods ranging from produce, baked goods, syrup and cheese, to fresh-cut flowers, coffee and handmade items.

“We are looking forward to welcoming a variety of vendors and continuing to host special events throughout the season,” said Lori Gresnick, Kentwood recreation program coordinator. “The Kentwood Farmers Market is a great opportunity for the community to support local businesses, and likewise, it’s a great way for our local vendors to connect with Kentwood residents and neighbors.”

Upcoming events include the following:

June 1 – Opening Day will include special giveaways for the first 30 visitors.

July 20 – Dog Days of Summer will feature vendors who provide specialty pet products.

Sept. 21 – Kentwood Cares will allow guests to bring nonperishable food donations to support Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry or monetary donations for the Youth Scholarship Fund, which helps low-income youth participate in Kentwood’s recreational programs.

Aug. 4–10 – National Farmers Market Week will include vendor spotlights on Facebook.

Oct. 5 – Harvest Celebration will mark the closing day of the season and feature music, games and baked goods.
 

The Kentwood Farmers Market accepts food assistance benefits, including SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks and Senior Project FRESH/Market FRESH.

In its fourth year, Kentwood welcomed 18 vendors throughout the season and nearly 330 customers per market.

Vendors can reserve a spot for $15 per day for $250 for the full season. More information about the Kentwood Farmers Market, including vendor applications, can be found online at kentwoodfarmersmarket.com .

Early literacy skill-building begins at birth

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, How-To's, Kids Activities, ,

By Carrie Shrier, Michigan State University Extension


Did you know if you start daily reading at birth, and read with your child for 30 minutes a day, they will go to kindergarten with over 900 hours of literacy time? If you reduce that to 30 minutes a week, they lose over 770 hours of this critical “brain food” and go to kindergarten with just 130 hours of literacy time.


Developing early literacy skills makes it easier for children to read. These early skills, such as building vocabulary, rhyming, and book handling skills make it easier for children to learn how to read when they get to kindergarten. However, more than one in three American children are starting kindergarten without the essential skills they need to be ready to learn to read.


Make a commitment to help your child be ready to succeed in school and commit to engaging in 30 minutes of daily literacy skill-building time starting at birth. Here are seven tips from Michigan State University Extension and ideas to support your young child’s literacy development.

1. Promote high-quality language interactions

Think of yourself like a sports commentator. You are providing the play by play for the infant or toddler in your life. Narrate the world around them, their interactions with toys, even diaper changes. Talk about what is going on, what you are doing, what they are seeing, etc. Research shows that when children have higher levels of language stimulation in the first year of life, they have better language skills, including larger vocabularies.

2. Make art a regular part of the day

In infancy and toddlerhood, young children are learning that their movements and motions can make the marks on the paper. Art experiences provide young children with the ability to practice gripping and holding a marker or crayon, learning to be purposeful in making marks on paper and phenomenal sensory feedback (feeling the paint squish between their fingers, smelling the crayons, etc.). Provide children with a wide variety of art experiences including, but not limited to, coloring with markers and crayons on heavy and thin paper, painting, finger painting, molding paint and clay, etc. Consider using non-traditional paints like chocolate pudding or shaving cream for a fun sensory experience.

3. Read, read, read

Build children’s print awareness and book handling skills by reading to them every day and making books available for children to explore. Consider heavy-duty board books that will survive heavy duty toddler usage. MSU Extension offers ideas to expand on your child’s experiences with books in our free, reproducible Family Book Sheets.

4. Nursery rhyme time

Research in early literacy has proven that regular exposure to rhymes help boost children’s abilities to master pre-reading skills such as rhyme prediction and detection. Add rhymes and rhythms to your child’s day. Read nursery rhymes, sing songs with rhyming words, find fun books with rhymes and add chants or rhymes to routine times of your day, such as cleanup time or bath time.

5. Use baby sign language

Did you know that babies who learned to sign first have been found to have significantly higher vocabularies and higher IQ scores? In fact, babies who learn to sign are more likely to be reading on grade level by the end of third grade. Use signs to teach your baby and toddler basic communication words like eat, more, milk, tired, wet, hot, etc. You can tell your baby is starting to be old enough to sign when you see them waving bye-bye or mimicking other gestures to communicate, such as pounding on their high chair tray for more food.

6. Read it again, and again, and again!

While reading books again and again might be frustrating for parents, toddlers love to have their favorite books read aloud multiple times. The act of re-reading a book helps young children build their comprehension skills and their vocabulary. Consider having special books as parts of your routine, such as a bedtime book you read at the same time every night. Ask questions while you read, can they predict what will happen next?

7. Literacy rich environments

Point out to your baby or toddler all the things you read in a day. Read in front of them, emphasize that reading is something you value. Read cereal boxes at breakfast, magazines in the doctor’s waiting room, street signs while you are driving. Make books accessible to your child. Help your child grow up valuing reading as a critical skill and worthy use of their free time.


It is critical to help your child be ready to read when they go to kindergarten. According to 2017 M-STEP data, only 50 percent of Michigan’s children were reading on grade level by the end of third grade. This is a crucial benchmark because in fourth grade, children shift from learning how to read to reading to learn. The Michigan Department of Education is working diligently to improve reading proficiency, beginning with supporting language, literacy and pre-reading skills in early childhood.


Do your part in supporting your child’s early reading skills. Make an effort to keep reading a priority in your home; a family activity that is fun, engaging and something you do together, every day. Helping your child learn to love reading is an amazing gift.


For more information about early childhood literacy development, programs in your area and webinars, visit MSU Extension’s Early Childhood Development.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Good Night, Sweetheart

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, , ,

By Dr. Jenny Bush, Cherry Health

Anyone who has ever had a bad habit to break knows that life would have been easier if they had never started the habit in the first place. Bad sleep habits in young children can cause fatigue for the caregivers along with irritability and learning difficulties for the child. The following are tips for starting your child off with a good night sleep:

  • Newborn babies typically go through cycles of playing, eating and sleeping every 3-4 hours. If your baby has been recently fed and seems fussy, try to calm them by walking or rocking them. When they seem calm but are not quite asleep, place them in a crib on a firm surface on their back with nothing extra present. Doing this while they are tired but still awake will help them develop the ability to fall asleep on their own, which eventually helps them get back to sleep when they awaken at night.
  • If the baby gets fussy when put in the crib, try rubbing their tummy and softly shushing or singing a lullaby.
  • Never let a baby fall asleep with the bottle or breast in their mouth, as this habit is very hard to break and can cause severe dental infections that are often painful and require surgery to fix.
  • Establish a firm bedtime routine. It is good to have bedtime at the same time every night. Choose 2-3 things to do the same prior to saying goodnight. For example, you could read a book, sing a song and say ‘goodnight’ to a favorite stuffed animal.
  • Avoid stimulating activities such as television, phone or tablet use for 30 minutes prior to bedtime. This tip can help people of any age sleep better!

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

Alternatives in Motion ‘Wheel Run Together’ 5k at GVSU this weekend

3-bottom, Community Health, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Sports, Upcoming Events
Alternatives in Motion’s Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser from a previous year. (Supplied/Alternatives in Motion)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The local non-profit Alternatives in Motion — whose mission state is to “enhance independence through access to mobility equipment — invites the public to run, walk or hand cycle your way through Grand Valley State University’s campus in Allendale this Saturday, April 6, for its Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser.

All proceeds go directly to support the organization, which aids in donating and refurbishing wheelchairs to individuals and families in need.

For a late 2017 WKTV In Focus video interview with the group, see this YouTube link.

“Nothing is more powerful than the gift of independence and mobility, so come out to support a wonderful cause put on by students in the physical therapy program at GVSU,” states a supplied press release.

The event will take place at 1110 Kirkhof Center, 1 Campus Drive, on GVSU’s Allendale campus. In addition to the run, there will be raffles, prizes, music, snacks, drinks, and more. The cost is $25 per person with events starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m. Online registration ends April 5.

Registration and additional race information can be found at the following Facebook link.

For more information on Alternatives in Motion, visit their website here.

Whitecaps open season, plan Hispanic/Latino fan engagement games

3-bottom, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events,
The West Michigan Whitecaps will soon begin play at Fifth Third Ballpark. (Supplied/West Michigan Whitecaps)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The Detroit Tigers have already throw out the first pitch of the 2019 season, with the local West Michigan Whitecaps ready to do so Thursday, with their first pitch at home on Saturday, April 6. But the Whitecaps have a little something special planned for their Saturday, May 11, home game — a little lanzamiento descontrolado (wild pitch, in the Spanish).

The West Michigan Whitecaps will become “Las Calaveras de West Michigan” —The Skulls of West Michigan — for three games during the 2019 season, all on Saturdays: May 11, July 13, and Aug. 17.

These games will be centered on “celebrating the Hispanic/Latino culture and the influence it has had on America’s pastime,” according to supplied material.

“Our desire is to reflect the community, whether it’s our game-day employees, our front office or our fans,” Whitecaps President Steve McCarthy said in supplied material. “The core values of this community reflect the core values of Minor League Baseball – family, community, entertainment and tradition. This is an opportunity for us to grow.”

At the games, fans will enjoy sugar skull decorating, face painting, authentic food and music, games and more when Las Calaveras de West Michigan take the field in alternative uniforms focused on the Calaveras.

Calaveras, or skulls, are an important part of Hispanic culture. Skulls made out of sugar are decorated and used during Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a festive and colorful Latin holiday that originated in Mexico thousands of years ago, during which families celebrate the lives and legacies of deceased relatives. The uplifting holiday recognizes death as something to celebrate as part of the cycle of life.

The Calaveras logo is a unique take on a sugar skull, viewed at an angle to suggest motion and competitiveness as the team swings for the fences. Inside the decorative skull logo are subtle references to the Whitecaps and West Michigan. The eyes are baseballs inside the 616 West Michigan area code; also look for baseball bats, home plate, a W and M, the team’s original logo from the 1990s, and seagulls and waves representing the Lake Michigan shoreline.

 
With its Las Calaveras de West Michigan nights, the Whitecaps will be one of 72 minor league teams participating in the 2019 “Copa de la Diversion,” or “Fun Cup,” an Hispanic/Latino fan engagement initiative.

“This program is aimed at connecting the teams to their communities,” McCarthy said. “For the Whitecaps, it’s allowing us to both demonstrate our commitment to diversity and provide a wide selection of fan engagement offerings.”

 
The Copa de la Diversion initiative seeks to connect MiLB teams with their diverse communities, embracing the culture and values that resonate most with Hispanics and Latinos. The initiative launched with 33 participating teams in 2018 to great success and overwhelmingly positive feedback, and the program is more than doubling in size to 72 teams for its second season.

For more information about Calaveras de West Michigan, or to buy tickets or merchandise, please visit this link.

The Whitecaps open their 26th season on Thursday, April 4 at 7:05 p.m. at the South Bend Cubs. The home opener is set for Saturday, April 6 at 4 p.m. also against the Cubs. Complete ticket information, including season and group ticket prices and perks, is available at this link.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny coming to Kentwood Activities Center 

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Holidays, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events
The Easter bunny will be making a return visit to Kentwood on April 20. (WKTV File Photo)

By City of Kentwood

The Easter Bunny will make an early appearance in the City of Kentwood this year to meet and enjoy breakfast with families on Saturday, April 20, at the Kentwood Activities Center.

A pancake breakfast with juice and coffee will be served from 9-11 a.m. When families arrive, there will be music to enjoy and an art project for children.

An opportunity to take meet and take photos with the bunny will be offered from 10-11 a.m. Guests are asked to bring their own camera for pictures.
 

“We are delighted to welcome spring with our ‘Breakfast with the Bunny’ event this year,” said Val Romeo, director of Kentwood Parks and Recreation. “All are invited to enjoy hot cakes and activities with Peter Cottontail.”

Tickets are $5 in advance or $7 at the door. Breakfast is free for kids age 5 or younger.

The Kentwood Activities Center is located at 355 48th St. SE. More information about the event is available online at this link.

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know — weekend edition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Pets/Animals, Upcoming Events, , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Do not put all your eggs in one basket.”

― Warren Buffet

Hop to it!

Make them funny bunny photos
(and why not?)

Sheesh. Was that a long winter or what? Time to get out and celebrate — and here are some fun ideas. The Mad Hatter Tea Party, an Enchanted Spring Party with Mermaids and Unicorns and family pet photos with the bunny are all in store at Woodland Mall — and the fun starts this weekend. Shoppers will also find the latest spring fashion trends to freshen their wardrobes. Read more here.



Expande tus horizontes

Mark your calendar for April 4-5 — and get down to Wealthy Theatre for Grand Rapids Latin American Film Festival (GRLAFF). This year, GRLAFF will showcase eight feature-length films from Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay and the Dominican Republic, plus​ Una mujer fantástica (​A Fantastic Woman), a 2018 Oscar-winning film from Chile. More info here. En español aqui.



Give the kids a break

Rock climbing, art, bounce houses, swimming, and fitness are just a few of the family–friendly activity options available at The Salvation Army Kroc Center during Spring Break 2019. More here.


Fun fact:

1904

The first year scientific literature described fainting goats.





Woodland Mall brings on spring this weekend with bunny photos, family events

Entertainment, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Business, Upcoming Events
Woodland Mall will begin their season of the Bunny (photos) this weekend. (Supplied Graphic)

By Woodland Mall

Woodland Mall is preparing for the arrival of spring by hosting a series of events to help shoppers welcome spring with beautiful displays, special events, fashion, dining and entertainment options for those looking to celebrate with family or friends, and even pets.

The Mad Hatter Tea Party, an Enchanted Spring Party with Mermaids and Unicorns and family pet photos with the bunny are all in store at Woodland Mall in the coming weeks. Shoppers will also find the latest spring fashion trends to freshen their wardrobes.

“After an especially harsh end of winter, the arrival of spring could not be more welcome,” said Cecily McCabe, Woodland Mall marketing director. “Woodland Mall is pleased to provide fashion trends and family-friendly events that are fitting for the holidays year-round.”

Bunny photos begin Saturday, March 30, with two new fresh photo options and will be available for photos in Macy’s Court through Saturday, April 20. New this year, a second photo backdrop will be available for spring family photos in addition to traditional bunny photos. Pets are welcome to take part in family photos all day Mondays. For photo hours and pricing, please visit shopwoodlandmall.com.

For the more whimsical at heart, families can also attend the Mad Hatter Tea Party on Saturday, March 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event takes a fun and interactive twist on the Lewis Carroll classic story, to make photos with the bunny even more magical.

The Alice in Wonderland-themed tea party will include a special story time event presented by Barnes & Noble, sing-a-long songs, spring-themed crafts and coloring activities. Guests will receive a free gift with purchase of bunny photo. Tickets for the event are free but spots do fill up quickly, so those interested are asked to reserve a ticket online.

Members of the mall’s rewards program, PREIT Perks, receive an exclusive treat during the event: face painting. To sign up for PREIT Perks, find a kiosk in Woodland Mall or visit Woodland Mall online.

Also, for little ones who love mermaids and unicorns, be sure to mark the calendar for the Enchanted Spring Party on Saturday, April 13. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Macy’s Court, children will have the opportunity to meet a real mermaid and pose for an under-the-sea-themed photo, ride a unicorn and create a craft to take home.

The Bunny will also be available for photos during the event. Attendees who purchase a bunny or mermaid photo will receive a free gift. More information can be found online.

GR Public Museum and John Ball Zoo partner to become Sensory Inclusive-certified

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, , ,
Image by Andrea Don from Pixabay

By Kate Kocienski and Darci David


People with autism, dementia, PTSD and similar conditions often experience sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation. A big barrier for these folks is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise — the norm for environments at public spaces like the Grand Rapids Public Museum and John Ball Zoo.


What to do?


Well, thanks to passage of the Kent County millage in November 2016, funding was made available for the Grand Rapids Public Museum and John Ball Zoo to help highly sensitive individuals enjoy their experiences. The duo partnered with KultureCity — a nonprofit based in Birmingham, Alabama — to make their organizations, including all of the programs and events hosted, sensory-inclusive. The goal: to promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory issue.


To obtain sensory-inclusive certification, JBZ and GRPM employees underwent training by leading medical professionals on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will be available to guests beginning in early April at the GRPM and in May at John Ball Zoo.


Families can prepare for visits to JBZ or the GRPM by downloading the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory inclusive features are available and where they can be accessed. Also on the app is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while visiting.


“Having the opportunity to collaborate with KultureCity and the Museum to offer sensory kits to our guests embodies the Zoo’s value of diversity within the culture, talents, and experiences of our communities,” said Peter D’Arienzo, CEO of John Ball Zoo.


“We strive to be a place where all people feel welcome,” said Dale Robertson, President and CEO of the Grand Rapids Public Museum.




Is your home poison-safe?

3-bottom, Community Health, Education, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, ,

By Dr. Jenny Bush, Cherry Health Pediatrician and Director of Pediatrics


National Poison Prevention Week is observed in the United States the third week of March every year. Over half of the 2.4 million cases of poisonings reported to poison control centers each year involve children less than 5 years of age.


To help keep your little ones safe, please check out these tips below:

  • Put the toll-free number for the Poison Control Center (1.800.222.1222) into your cell phone and post on the fridge.
  • Store all household products out of children’s sight and reach. Young kids are often eye-level with items under the kitchen and bathroom sinks. So, any bleach, detergents, dishwasher liquid or cleaning solutions that are kept there should be moved to a new storage location. This also applies to chemicals that may be in a garage or shed.
  • Keep cleaning products in their original containers. Never put a potentially poisonous product in something other than its original container (such as a plastic soda bottle) where it could be mistaken for something else.
  • Be aware of any medications that may be in your handbag. Ask visitors to place their handbags in an area that the children cannot get to.
  • Make sure that all medications, including vitamins, are stored out of reach and out of sight or children. Even if you are tempted to keep it handy, put medicine out of reach after every use. When you need to give another dose in just a few hours, it may be tempting to keep medicine close at hand. Accidents can happen fast. It only takes a few seconds for children to get into medicine that could make them very sick. Put medicine up and away after every use. And if you need a reminder, set an alarm on your watch or cellphone, or write yourself a note.

If you are interested in learning more about poisoning safety, please visit safekids.org.


Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.