Macaroni Kid
Bloomington-Normal
Macaroni Kid   Editions

"Emotionally Attached"


Letter from the Editor

A couple of weeks ago my family and I moved.  Moving comes along with the task of going through everything you own and separating it into piles of "take," "donate," and "toss."  Like a good gal, I brought home empty boxes and bins, labeled them properly, and took to sorting with the intent of massive downsizing.  As I went through all the things my husband and I had collected during the years in our first home, I noticed that another separate pile was beginning to form.  A fitting label would ...


Time to Register for YEP!


Community Education for Kids and Teens at Heartland Community College

Registration is underway for the summer Youth Enrichment Program (YEP) at Heartland Community College.  The Heartland Community Education Department is excited to offer over 130 exciting learning opportunities for young people of all ages who want to explore and develop new areas of interest this summer.  Students from kindergarten through high school can have fun learning new hobbies such as cooking, foreign language, theatre, computer programming, sports camps, and more and also develop their academic skills in the areas of math, writing, reading, science, and more. 

Some of the exciting ...


Stop and Smell the Flowers


Try Planting a Few Too!

April is the perfect time to take walks with your children and look at the beautiful new flowers that are blooming like crocus, daffodils and tulips.  It gets you out of the house and gives you and your children something fun and inexpensive to do.

Have your child draw a picture of the flower.  Better yet, if the flowers are yours, have her take a petal and press it in her nature journal.  Can you imagine the memories and delight 25 years later when she shows this petal and drawing ...


Wanted: Baseball-Loving Families


Normal CornBelters Looking for Training Camp Host Families

The May 27th CEFCU Opening Night for the Normal CornBelters is quickly approaching and the team is looking for more Training Camp Host Families.  These are generous families who will open their home to a ball player during the Training Camp days of May 1st through May 15th.  Host Families play an important role in the lives of these young players by giving them a place to call home.  Baseball-loving families will enjoy this unique experience of 'adopting' a professional baseball player as he works to achieve his dream.  Interested ...


This Week's Picks:


April 8th through April 9th

Friday, April 8 - Zoot Dace Party: Summer Songs

Mom and Dad, give yourself a night out, as Mickey Lower introduces your child to the wonderful sounds of popular musicals, at the same time teaching basic dance movements and choreography that teach rhythm, timing, and beat.  Theatrical face paint is included.  Stage presence and much more will abound from your child as you will see when you return for the musical revue at 7:45pm.  So sign up now!
Where: Children's Discovery Museum 101 E. Beaufort Normal, IL
When: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Kids in K-5th grade
How: Registration required.  Click here for the Programming Registration Form or register over the telephone with a credit card by calling 309433-3444. 
Cost: $10 museum memners, $14 non-members
For more info: Click here for more information.

Saturday, April 9 - Illinois Sustainable Living and Wellness Expo

Explore the many aspects of Living Well and Living Green at the upcoming Illinois Sustainable Living and Wellness Expo.  Up to 100 exhibitors and 20 presenters.  This interactive event celebrates Creating Healthy Communities!  The Kids' Green Zone will have educational crafts, games and activities.
Where: Illinois Weslyan University, Shirk Center, 302 E. Emerson St., Bloomington
When: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!
For more info: Click here for more information.

Saturday, April 9 - 3rd Annual Child Safety Open House

It is time for the 3rd Annual Child Safety Open House!  From 10am - 2pm, take part in free martial arts classes, a fun pizza party, and prize drawings!  Schedule is as follows: 10am Tiny Tiger Safety Class, 10:30am Snack, 10:45am Kidz 'n Power Safety Training, 11:30am Pizza Party, 12pm Board Breaking Seminar, 12:45PM Anti-Bullying Seminar, 1:15pm Kids Fit Class, 2pm Grand Prize Drawing, 2:15 Adult Fitness and Flexibilty.  This is a FREE event for the whole family!
Where: Coffrin's ATA Martial Arts, 503 N. Prospect Rd. #203, Bloomington, IL 61704
When: 10:00 AM - 2:15 PM (See description for class times for various age groups)
Who: All ages (younger child class takes place at 10am)
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!
For more info: For more information click here or call 309-663-KICK.

This Week's Calendar:


April 6th through April 12th

Wednesday, April 6 - Preschool Storytime

Preschool Storytime will meet at 10 a.m. in the Story Room at Bloomington Public Library. This 30-minute program will help your 3- to 5-year-old build independent listening skills.
Where: Bloomington Public Library 205 E. Olive St. Bloomington, IL 61701
When: 10:00 AM
Who: 3 to 5 year olds
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Wednesday, April 6 - Open Gym at Rising Stars Academy

Open gym allows you and your child to explore the facilities and equipment on your own.  Staff is available to help out and give you ideas for activities.
Where: Rising Stars Academy 2902 Gill Street Bloomington, IL 61704
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (See "More Info" for Additional Days/Times)
Who: Ages "walking" to 5 years
How: Just show up, special event release form will have to be filled out once to participate.
Cost: $5 per walking child
For more info: Open gym hours: Monday/Wednesday/Friday 11am-noon.  Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday 1:30-2:30pm.  Click here for more information and to check for cancellations.

Wednesday, April 6 - New Release Movie Nights

On Wednesday nights, Bloomington Public Library will be showing the newest and hottest DVD movie which was released just the day before.  Enjoy free popcorn with the movie too.  Titles will be determined as movie release dates are made available.
Where: Bloomington Public Library 205 E. Olive St. Bloomington, IL
When: 6:30 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!
For more info: Please call ahead to make sure movie is young child appropriate. 309-828-6091.

Thursday, April 7 through Friday, April 8 - Earth Day Extravaganza

Delve into a world of exploration during a two hour, drop-off program designed to stimulate a child’s interest in science, art, literature, and culture with age-appropriate, hands-on activities. Cost includes program and Museum exploration for one child.  Earth Day Extravaganza: We love our planet!  Discover ways to reduce, reuse and recycle and make some useful recycled objects too!  Thursday, 4/7: 9:30-11:30AM or 1:30pm-3:30pm.  Friday, 4/8: 9:30am-11:30am.
Where: Children's Discovery Museum 101 E. Beaufort Normal, IL
When: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM (See description for more times.)
Who: Homeschooled children ages 5-8
How: Advanced registration is required.  Call 309-433-3444 to register.
Cost: $10 members/$14 non-members
For more info: Click here for more information on the Homeschool Programs at the Children's Discovery Museum.

Thursday, April 7 through Friday, April 8 - The Wonderful World of Bugs

Delve into a world of exploration during a drop-off program designed to stimulate a child’s interest in science, art, literature, and culture with age-appropriate, hands-on activities. Cost includes program and Museum exploration for one child.  The Wonderful World of Bugs:  *Extended Class: Discover the fascinating world of bugs. Students will walk to ISU to visit the Lubber Grasshopper lab and learn about these amazing insects, have lunch on the quad and participate in hands-on activities about bugs with ISU Biology students. Please bring a sack lunch for the day.
Where: Children's Discovery Museum 101 E. Beaufort Normal, IL
When: 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Who: Homeschooled children ages 9-13
How: Advanced registration is required.  Call 309-433-3444 to register.
Cost: $20 members/$24 non-members
For more info: Click here for more information on the Homeschool Programs at the Children's Discovery Museum.

Thursday, April 7 - Toddler Time at the Bloomington Public Library

The Bloomington Public Library invites toddlers to enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, and movement activities with a parent or grandparent.
Where: Bloomington Public Library 205 E. Olive St. Bloomington, IL 61701
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Toddlers age 19 to 35 months
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Thursday, April 7 - Story Time - Fun Learning About Money

Stories about money to help children think about the value of money and how they will earn and save money.
Where: Barnes & Noble, 1701 E. Empire St., Bloomington, IL
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!
For more info: Click here for more information.

Thursday, April 7 - Lego My Library

Come to the library and build, build, build!  Each month will have a different theme to help inspire participants, but you're welcome to build anything you'd like.  Think it's a good idea and want to help?  The library welcomes donations of Legos!  Please bring new or used Legos to the Children's Information Desk.  A big thank-you goes to the Friends of the Normal Public Library and to those patrons who donated Legos!
Where: Normal Public Library Community Room 206 W. College Ave. Normal, IL
When: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Children ages 2 to 12.  Kids under 8, please bring a grown-up along!
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Thursday, April 7 - Taco Mania - Kids Can Cook!

This is the second class in the Kids Can Cook! Series where Registered Dietician Kim McClintic demonstrates how you can include your child in meal preparation. The importance of good nutrition for growing bodies will be addressed while food is being prepared. This class if for one parent and one child, grades 2-6. This menu includes: Tasty Tex-Mex, Southwest Chicken Wraps and Tasty Tortilla Dessert Cups.
Where: Center for Healthy Lifestyles, 2200 E. Washington St., Bloomington, IL
When: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Grades 2-6 and a grown-up
How: To register, call 1-888-6-ASK-OSF (1-888-627-5673)
Cost: $20 per parent/child couple and payment is due 48 hours in advance. (Additional children may be added for $10 each and additional parent for $5.)

Thursday, April 7 through Friday, April 8 - Playful Learners I: Spring is Here!

Each one hour class begins with group time where children and adult partners play and interact with each other, sing and dance to music and listen to a story or participate in finger plays.  From there, the class will break up for center time.  Children will develop fine motor skills for detailed exploration, and activities for gross motor skills will focus on movement. Spring is Here!: Let's get ready for spring!  Wee'll decorate windsocks, plant flowers, make sun catchers and more!  Thursday from 6-7pm or Friday from 10:30-11:30am.
Where: Children's Discovery Museum 101 E. Beaufort St. Normal, IL
When: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM (Friday at 10:30am to 11:30am)
Who: Ages 12-24 months and their grown-up
How: Advanced registration is required.  To register call 309-433-3444.
Cost: $6 museum members/$10 non-members (Additional adult $4)
For more info: Click here for more information on the Playful Learners.

Thursday, April 7 - Square Dance Lessons

Learn to square dance with the Twin City Twirlers.
Where: YWCA Fitness Room 2 1201 N. Hershey Road Bloomington, IL 61704
When: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: Anyone 10 years with a parent and up
How: Just show up
Cost: $4 per person

Thursday, April 7 - Meet Author Shirin Yim Bridges

Shirin Yim Bridges is the author of Ruby's Wish and the new series, The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Real Princesses.  Have your copy signed by the author!
Where: Milner Library, 201 North School St., Normal, IL
When: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Friday, April 8 - Family Story Hour

Come to the Normal Public Library for stories, songs, crafts and activities!
Where: Normal Public Library Community Room 206 W. College Ave. Normal, IL
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Geared towards 3 to 5 year-olds, but everyone is welcome!
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Friday, April 8 - Open Gym at Gymnastics Etc.

Every Tuesday and Friday, Gymnastics Etc. Will hold open gym for preschool aged children.
Where: Gymnastics Etc. 402 Olympia Drive Bloomington, IL 61704
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Also on Tuesday!)
Who: Preschool aged chilldren
How: Just show up
Cost: $5 per child
For more info: For more information visit http://www.gymetc.com/

Friday, April 8 - Books ALIVE

Enjoy a night of storytelling, games, crafts, and an opportunity to get your child's picture taken with a favorite book character - don't forget your camera!  Each child will get to select a book to take home!  Spanish interpreters will be available and the will be a Spanish storytime at 7pm.
Where: Western Avenue Community Center, 600 N. Western Avenue (corner of Western and Locust), Bloomington, IL
When: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Come anytime between 5:30pm and 7:30pm)
Who: Designed for 3-8 year olds but everyone is welcome
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Friday, April 8 through Saturday, April 9 - Follow the Drinking Gourd at the ISU Planetarium

The ISU Planetarium invites you to the family friendly program, Follow the Drinking Gourd.  The stars of the Big Dipper are among the brightest and most popular in the night sky -- pointing the way to the North Star.  Throughout time these stars have been thought to resemble everything from a bear and three hunters to a drinking gourd guiding the way to freedom.  Join us as we explore the tales surrounding the Big Dipper and the stars that it points to!  Friday at 7:30pm.  Saturday at 2pm.
Where: ISU Planetarium is located at the east end of Felmley Hall of Science on the corner of College Avenue and School Street in Normal.
When: 7:30 PM (Saturday show is at 2pm)
Who: Ages 3 and up
How: Just show up
Cost: Ages 3-4 $2, ages 5-12 and seniors $3, and ages 13-59 $4.
For more info: Click here for more information.

Saturday, April 9 - Preschool Fair

Come see what area Preschools have to offer.  Meet with local preschool administrators, learn about preschool requirements and find the right learning environment for your child.  Everything is free and open to the public.  There will be free learning sessions on Medical Requirements, How to Pick a Preschool, Developmental Milestones, Speech & Language, Social Emotional Readiness, Love & Logic, Autism, and Potty Training.
Where: Heartland Community College Workforce Development Center, 1500 W. Raab Road, Normal, IL
When: 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Saturday, April 9 - Ye Olde $$$ Fair, Hosted by Ben Franklin

A variety of activities for children ages 4-10, including guessing games associated with money and its place in society.
Where: Holy Trinity Church Basement, 711 Main St., Bloomington, IL
When: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: Ages 4-10
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!
For more info: Click here for more information.

Saturday, April 9 - Lowe's Build & Grow Parent/Child Craft Building Clinic

From project basics to giving your child the opportunity to say, "I built it!," Lowe's Build and Grow kid's clinics are a great way to help build confidence! Bring the kids into any Lowe's store and build a FREE wooden project. Each participant also receives a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certification of merit upon completion of their project.  This weekend children will build a Sports Pinball Game!
Where: Lowe's, 2101 E. Empire St., Bloomington, IL
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: All ages
How: Pre-register HERE, print waiver, and bring it with you.
Cost: Free!
For more info: Click here for more information.

Saturday, April 9 - The Easter Bunny Arrives at Eastland Mall

Visit the Easter Bunny at Eastland Mall during mall hours!  Photo packages will be available from April 9th through April 23rd.
Where: Eastland Mall, 1615 East Empire St., Bloomington, IL
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Ages 3 and over with a parent
How: Just show up
Cost: Visiting with the Easter Bunny is Free!  Photo packages start at $20.

Saturday, April 9 - Family Story Hour

Come to the Normal Public Library for stories, songs, crafts and activities!
Where: Normal Public Library Community Room 206 W. College Ave. Normal, IL
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Geared towards 3 to 5 year-olds, but everyone is welcome!
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Saturday, April 9 - Second Saturday Family Stories

Second Saturday Family Stories will meet at 11 a.m. in the Story Room. Kids of all ages will enjoy stories, songs and finger plays. A parent or caregiver needs to accompany children.
Where: Bloomington Public Library, 205 E. Olive St., Bloomington, IL
When: 11:00 AM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Saturday, April 9 - Dress Up Movie at the Normal Theatre - Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

This is a free family activity!  Doors open at 12:30pm.  Movie goers are encouraged to dress up or bring an item that relates to the featured movie.  Each child under the age of 10 will receive something special either before or after the movie.  Concessions are available for $1 or $2.
Where: Historic Normal Theatre, 209 North St., Normal, IL
When: 1:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Saturday, April 9 - Birth of Stars, Orion's Nebual: TCAA Public Viewing Session

Join the Twin City Amateur Astronomers at the Sugar Grove Observatory to learn how stars, star clusters, and planets are born from large clouds of interstellar gas. We will also tour the night skies, point out constellations, and give you a look through our telescopes at beautiful celestial objects. The program may be cancelled in the event of a cloudy sky. Phone Carl at 309.830.4085 or Lee at 309.324.2804 to confirm if you are unsure. For additional information, visit their website at http://tcaa.us/.
Where: Sugar Grove Nature Center, 4532 N. 725 East Road, McLean, IL 61754
When: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Monday, April 11 - Last day to register for Bunny's Pizza Dinner & Egg Hunt

Bunny's Pizza Dinner & Egg Hunt will take place on Friday, April 15th at 5:30pm.  Bring the family out for an evening of eggstra special fun. The bunny will have been busy preparing pizza for dinner and hiding candy filled eggs in the park for all to find. Make sure to dress for the weather. There will be drawings for prizes and everyone will enjoy a sweet treat after the hunt. Registration deadline: April 11.
Where: Event takes place at Miller Park Pavillion
When: 9:00 AM
Who: All ages
How: Registration is required.  Call 309-434-2260 to register.
Cost: $25 for parent/child, and $10 for each additional participant

Monday, April 11 - Second Monday Story Club

The Second Monday Story Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. in the Bloomington Public Library Story Room. Children in first, second and third grades will enjoy stories, poetry and activities.
Where: Bloomington Public Library Story Room, 205 E. Olive St., Bloomington, IL
When: 6:30 PM
Who: Children in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Tuesday, April 12 - Lapsit for Infants

Lapsit for Infants will take place at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. in the Story Room at the Bloomington Public Library. Babies and their caregivers are invited to drop in for 30 minutes of stories, rhymes, songs and more. This is baby-and-me-time for infants up to 18-months-old; please make arrangements for older siblings.
Where: Bloomington Public Library, 205 E. Olive St., Bloomington, IL
When: 10:00 AM (Also at 6:30pm)
Who: Infants up to 18 months old and their caregivers
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Tuesday, April 12 - Tuesday Tales

Stories and songs every Tuesday morning.  Aimed at 3-5 year olds but everyone is welcome!
Where: Normal Public Library Book Nook 206 W. College Avenue Normal, IL
When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: 3 to 5 year olds, but everyone is welcome.
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Teen Scene:


April 11th through April 12th

Monday, April 11 - Teen Writers Workshop

Teens are invited to the Normal Public Library Board Room for a writer's workshop!
Where: Normal Public Library 206 W. College Ave. Normal, IL
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Teens
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Monday, April 11 - Digital Photography Classes for Teens - Reception

At 7pm, the BPL will officially unveil the artwork created during the Digital Photography Classes for Teens as National Library Week is Celebrated.
Where: Bloomington Public Library, 205 E. Olive St., Bloomington, IL
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Teens
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Tuesday, April 12 - Anime Now

Watch anime films and series so new that most have not yet been shown in our area.  Teens and adults are invited to view and discuss anime.
Where: Bloomington Public Library Community Room 205 E. Olive St. Bloomington, IL
When: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: Teens and adults
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Tuesday, April 12 - Re:Verse: An Open Mic Night

Come one, and all, to a an open mic night at TheatresCool.  Special guest reader will be Joanne Diaz!
Where: TheatresCool. 403 N. Main St., Bloomington
When: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: Teens and adults
How: Just show up
Cost: $5 donations are appreciated

Plan Ahead:


April 14th through April 17th

Thursday, April 14 through Sunday, April 17 - Going Going Gone Seasonal Consignment Sale

Save up to 90% off of retail prices on children's items such as clothes, shoes, toys, baby gear, furniture, books, maternity, strollers, sports equipment and more!  Many items in new and "like new" condition!  Thursday, April 14th  6:30pm-9pm, Friday, April 15th 9am-7pm, Saturday, April 16th 9am-5pm, and Sunday, April 17th 12pm-3pm. 
Where: The Ashland House (Best Western), 201 East Ashland St., Morton, IL 61550
When: 9:00 AM (See Description for Days/Times)
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free admission and parking!
For more info: Click here for more information.

Friday, April 15 - Hands are for Hoding Mini-Parade

Celebrate Child Abuse Prevention Month by particpating (or watching) children take part in the Hands are for Holding Mini-Parade.  Children are encouraged to make a mini float using a child's wagon, musical instruments or signs.  There will be circle time with Jump Start, Children's Discovery Museum, and a presentation by Normal Police and Fire Department.  Dress for the weather and come out for this fun family event!  Special appearance by McGruff!
Where: Franklin Park, 949 North Main Street in Normal (outside the pool area).
When: 9:15 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: All ages
Cost: Free!

Friday, April 15 through Saturday, April 16 - Gamma Phi Circus Spring Show

Come one, come all to the Gamma Phi Circus Big Top at Redbird Arena.  The Gamma Phi Circus troupe will amaze you with their tight-wire skills, juggling, hand-balancing, Russian swing, German wheel, clowns and much more!  Fun for the while family!  April 15th & 16th at 7pm.  Saturday Matinee show at 1pm.
Where: Redbird Arena, Illinois State University
When: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Tickets are available through ticketmaster.com or Braden Box Office (309-438-5444).
Cost: Adults $12, Children 5-12 $8, Children 0-4 $1
For more info: Click here for more information.

Saturday, April 16 - Wheelchair Basketball!

Come watch as the University of Illinois Wheelchair Basketball Team take on the Bloomington Police Association, Bloomington Firefighters Local #49 & Friends in a game of Wheelchair Basketball!  There will also be concessions, cheerleading, a silent auction, DJ music by Joe Beck Entertainment, a pre-game performance by Kids on the Block Puppet Troupe, a raffle, and more!  All proceeds will benefit LIFE Center for Independent Living. 
Where: Kingsley Junior High School, 303 Kingsley St., Normal, IL
When: 11:00 AM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: $5 per person, children 5 and under are Free!
For more info: For more information call the LIFE Center at 309-663-5433.

Saturday, April 16 - Party for the Planet

Come and join in the "largest Earth Day celebration in North America." Your Miller Park Zoo is the ideal place to connect with conservation in your community. Party for the planet festivities will feature environmental education activities, amazing animal encounters, and fantastic family fun.
Where: Miller Park Zoo, 1020 S. Morris Ave., Bloomington, IL  
When: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free with paid admission of Youth (ages 3-12) and Senior Citizens $3.50, Adults (ages 13-59) $5.00, and children under 3 are free!

Saturday, April 16 - Meet Award Winning Author Candace Fleming

Candace Fleming is the author of picture books, like Muncha! Muncha! Muncha!, chapter books like The Fabled Fourth Graders of Aesop Elementary School, and nonfiction like The Lincolns: A scrapbook Look A Abraham and Mary.  There will be refreshments available after the presentation and books available for purchase and autographing.  This is a wonderful opportunity to meet and talk with a real children's author!  Thank you to the Friends of the Normal Public Library for sponsoring this event, to Marriott for the accommodations, and to Barnes & Noble for making books available.
Where: Normal Public Library, 206 W. College Ave., Normal, IL
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: Free!

Sunday, April 17 - Family Science Day

Family Science Day is a public outreach event to educate and inspire preK-8 students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by encouraging scientific discovery through the use of hands-on activities, displays, and demonstrations.
Where: Horton Field House at Illinois State University
When: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: preK-8 students and their families
How: Purchase your tickets at the Redbird Arena Ticket Office, the Children's Discovery Museum, or the Challenger Learning Center
Cost: $2 per person by April 1st, $3 per person after April 1st, Kids 2 and under are free!
For more info: Click here for more information.

Make a Bird's Nest


Jump into spring with a craft!

This is a fun and EASY project for the kids.

Items needed:

  1. Brown bags
  2. Sticks from the yard
  3. Glue
  4. Candy Eggs

Squash down the side of the brown paper bag. Glue sticks on the bag to form the look of a bird's nest. Let the bag dry and fill with eggs. I used candy eggs, but you can also use your colored Easter Eggs.

Enjoy!


Fruit Salsa


A light snack kids will love

Choose four or five different colored fruits like strawberries, blueberries, kiwis, mandarin oranges, grapes, apples, etc.

Dice fruits very small, use a food chopper or place fruits in food processor and process briefly (do not puree). You want about one to one and a half cups of fruit.

In a small bowl, combine one tbs. lemon or lime juice, two tsp. Agave Nectar or honey, and a dash of cinnamon. Pour mixture over chopped fruit and toss to coat. Serve fruit salsa with cinnamon and sugar pita chips. I bought ...


Macaroni Date to Remember


No Housework Day - April 7th!

No sweeping! No dusting! No mopping! No laundry! No Dishes! No Guilt!
 
NO KIDDING!
 
Celebrate No Housework Day and relax a little - you deserve it!
 
Follow my lead.....Just Say NO!

New Macaroni Kid Business Directory


Family-Friendly Community Businesses

Bloomington-Normal Macaroni Kid is excited to announce the addition of a Business Directory to our website!  The Business Directory link can be found on the left hand side of the website under "Connect."  We will be adding many more family-friendly community businesses, so keep checking back!

Do you own a local business that you would like to see listed in our Business Directory?  Click here to find out how to submit your listing.  We would love to add your business to our directory!


Kids Eat Free or Cheap!


By request, here is our Kids Eat Free or Cheap listing!  If you know of any restaurants that should be added to this list, please email me at [email protected].

Everyday

Cosi: Kids eat for $1 after 2pm with each adult entree purchase (limit one child per adult)

Flat Top Grill: Children 4 and under eat free everyday

Quiznos: Kids eat free with purchase of adult entree

Sunday

Alexanders: Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entree (limit 2 children per adult)

Carlos 'O Kellys: $2.50 ...


Contact Bloomington-Normal Macaroni Kid


Each week, I do my best to find all the great family-friendly events in the Bloomington-Normal area and I would love to hear what you think!  Also, if you know of any local events that our readers would enjoy, please let me know! If you would like to advertise your business on Bloomington-Normal Macaroni Kid, contact me! And if you are as excited about our newsletter as I am, don't forget to click on "forward to a friend" so this newsletter can continue to grow!

Melissa

[email protected]


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