June 12, Wednesday

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR ALBEMARLE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS
All Albemarle County Schools.
Please note: this is an extension to the 2012-2013 calendar due to the number of days that schools were closed for inclement weather and power outages.​​ At their March 14 meeting, the Albemarle County School Board agreed with the staff recommendation to use the following as make-up days for the 2012-13 school year: February 19, March 29, June 10, June 11 and June 12. Pending any additional school closings, the last day of the 2012-13 school year will be Wednesday, June 12, 2013. All Albemarle County Schools.  For details, please click this link. 

SCHOOLS, TUTORING, & AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES
Visit the AlbemarleKids School Connection to find schools, tutoring centers, and after-school learning opportunities. For details, please click this link. 

Call for session dates and times.

TEST PREP COURSES
Piedmont Virginia Community College.
SAT/ACT prep as well as GRE test preparation. For more info call: 961-5351. 

May 22, Wednesday

BLOCK PARTY: LEGO GATHERING!
JMRL - Gordon Avenue Library.
Do you want to get together with LEGO-minded people to build great things? All you need to bring is your creativity and natural engineering ability; we will have the building blocks to your next great creation. Ages 5 and up. No registration required. Gordon Avenue Library.  Directions: 1500 Gordon Ave.  4pm.  $Free.  Email: gordon@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-5544. 

June 9, Sunday

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH IN A JAR WORKSHOP
Crozet Mudhouse.
Join Executive Pastry Chef Margot Diaz for a wonderful hour of creating these fun and unique gifts! A fun activity for all ages! Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. You must prepay for this event. Crozet Mudhouse.  2-3pm.  $8.  All ages welcome.  Contact: Margot Diaz.  Email: margot@mudhouse.com. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 823-2240. 

June 14, Friday

I DIG SUMMER!
JMRL - Northside Library.
Get ready to dig into summer with a fun afternoon of digging.You'll excavate dig sites to find exciting creatures (including prehistoric creatures), dig for buried treasure, create rockin' crafts to take home and dig into chocolate-chip cookies. No registration required. Northside Library.  Directions: 300 Albemarle Square.  2-3pm.  $Free.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-7893. 

June 15, Saturday

OUTDOOR DESIGNERS: COLORFUL BIRD HOUSES
Virginia Discovery Museum.
Strap on your tool belts and celebrate Father's Day at the Virginia Discovery Museum! Paint your very own birdhouse to take home while learning about the many types of birds that make their home in Virginia. Ages 4-6 with an adult. Virginia Discovery Museum.  1:30pm.  $10 Members/$13 Non-Members.  Email: vdmprograms@vadm.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

June 18, Thursday

TUESDAY AFTERNOON ADVENTURES: PAINTED GARDEN TOOLS
JMRL - Scottsville Library.
Paint your set of hand tools to make them look distinctive and easy to find when you work in the garden. Registration is required and begins on Monday, June 3. Limit 10 participants Scottsville Library.  3:30-4:30pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 5 to 10.  Email: scottsville@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 823-4050. 

ARTS & CRAFTS CLASSES
Visit the AF Kids Year-Round Recreation for ongoing craft opportunities at many fun spots around town. For details, please click this link. 

ONLINE SUMMER CAMPS FAIR
From computer robot programming to tennis and horseback riding to scuba diving, you can find fabulous camps on CharlottesvilleFamily's Online Summer Camp Fair! You'll find helpful information and web links to day camps and residential camps, all over the East Coast. From traditional to special interest, you and your child will find the perfect camp. For details, please click this link. 

Ongoing

OPEN STUDIO AT THE VIRGINIA DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Virginia Discovery Museum.
Each week the Museum supplies directions, materials and samples to help make a unique, creative project to take home. Virginia Discovery Museum.  Directions: East end of Charlottesville Downtown Mall (near amphitheatre).  during regular hours.  $Free with admission.  All ages welcome.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

Last Tuesday of every month

STITCHES: AN INTER-GENERATIONAL HANDCRAFT GROUP
JMRL - Crozet.
Knitters, beaders, stitchers - come one, come all. Bring any project you're working on (or interested in learning) and join this fun group for an hour of handcrafting and sharing. Drop-ins welcome! Crozet Library.  Directions: 5791 Three Notched Road, Crozet.  4:30pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 8 to 108.  Email: crozet@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 823-4050. 

Ongoing, Wednesdays

TODDLER TIME
Virginia Discovery Museum.
Toddlers can join in the fun of a workshop where each child can create a different craft each week. Ages 6 & under with adult. Virginia Discovery Museum.  Directions: East end of Charlottesville Downtown Mall.  10:30am.  $Free with admission.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

June 1, Saturday

4 THE WOUNDED 5K
University of Virginia Foundation/Charlottesville Track Club.
An on and off-road event. One hundred percent of the race's proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, which provides programs and services to severely injured service members during the time between active duty and transition to civilian life. Kids Fun Run starts at 9am. University of Virginia Research Park.  Directions: Runners & spectators should arrive no later than 7:30am.  8am 5K start.  $30.  Special Needs Accommodation: An all-terrain course with an alternate, paved route for handicap runners  Contact: Katie Murphy.  Email: km9ua@virginia.edu. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-4850. 

June 13-14, Thursday-Friday

WESTERN ALBEMARLE BASKETBALL CAMP
Western Albemarle High School.
Th 2013 Basketball Camp is designed to teach, improve and refine basketball skills. Individual attention will be given to each camper and the instructional level will be geared to all age groups. Camp activities will include fundamental station work, individual drills, team play and a free throw contest. Western Albemarle High School.  Directions: 5941 Rockfish Gap Turnpike, Crozet.  9am-4pm.  $75.  For more info call: 823-8705. 

June 14-16, Friday-Sunday

FATHER'S DAY WEEKEND AT WINTERGREEN
Wintergreen Resort.
This Father's Day start a new tradition and celebrate this special holiday at Wintergreen Resort. Lots of family fun has been planned! Wintergreen Resort, Nellysford.  All ages welcome.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 325-2200. 

ATHLETIC CLASSES AND SPORTS PROGRAMS
Visit the CharlottesvilleFamily Year-Round Recreation for comprehensive listings of ongoing fitness and sports classes like Little League, ice skating, gymnastics, basketball, soccer and more for all ages. For details, please click this link. 

ONLINE SUMMER CAMPS FAIR
From computer robot programming to tennis and horseback riding to scuba diving, you can find fabulous camps on CharlottesvilleFamily's Online Summer Camp Fair! You'll find helpful information and web links to day camps and residential camps, all over the East Coast. From traditional to special interest, you and your child will find the perfect camp. For details, please click this link. 

CLASSES AND PLAYGROUPS FOR PARENTS WITH BABIES & TODDLERS
Visit the CharlottesvilleFamily Parent Classes and Events to find Baby & Me Classes. Also, in Family Support Groups and Clubs you'll find Playgroups listed. There are many wonderful organizations around town that offer programs through the year so check back often.

June 4, Tuesday

R.E.A.D. REGULARS
JMRL - Gordon Avenue Library.
R.E.A.D.: Read, Enjoy And Discuss! Become a part of the regulars. Meet other kids, new books and old favorites. Free copies of the book each month and snacks will be provided. Call the library for titles. For ages 10 & up. Ongoing registration. Gordon Avenue Library.  Directions: 1500 Gordon Ave.  4pm.  $Free.  Email: gordon@jmrl.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-5544. 

CHILDREN'S CLUBS AND GROUPS
Belonging to a group is important. Visit the CharlottesvilleFamily Year-Round Recreation Guide to find comprehensive listings of organizations offering clubs for local children. For details, please click this link. 

Weekly

GAME TOURNAMENTS AND LEAGUES
Weekly leagues and tournaments for Warhammer 40 K, Magic The Gathering, Lord of the Rings, Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon and X-Box games. The End Game Center.  $5 for tournaments.  Contact: Peter Leiher.  For more info call: 974-9828. 

Every other Monday, beginning January 23

JUNIOR NATURALISTS CLUB
Ivy Creek Foundation/Virginia Cooperative Extension.
Join 4H Junior Naturalists for a fun, hands-on club for kids who want to explore the natural world, and the fields and forests of Ivy Creek and Ragged Mountain Natural areas. The younger group (6-9 year olds) will learn about native trees and wildlife through outdoor activities, while the older group (10-13 year olds) will study our area's ecology more in-depth. Ivy Creek Natural Area, 1780 Earlysville Road.  younger group 4-5:30pm; older group 4:30-6pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 6 to 13.  Contact: Dan Bieker.  Email: danbieker@gmail.com. Reservations are required.  For more info call: 971-9618. 

Ongoing, Tuesdays

POETRY CLUB
Virginia Discovery Museum.
Join this award-winning group of young poets! Learn fun ways to get your creative juices flowing, write your own original poems, and publish them in the poetry anthology of the VADM, Museum Muses. Virginia Discovery Museum.  Directions: east end of the Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall .  4pm.  $Free with admission.  Recommended for ages 5 to 10.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

Ongoing, Thursdays

SCIENCE CLUB
Virginia Discovery Museum.
Discover the mysteries of science through hands-on activities, demonstrations and special guests. Ages 5 & up. Virginia Discovery Museum.  Directions: Downtown Mall.  4pm.  $Free with admission.  Email: vadm@vadm.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

Now through May 31

BUS LINES POETRY CONTEST: DOORS
Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) & Bus Lines.
Tell a story or weave a rhyme, and it could show up on a CAT bus! This round's theme - which can be used in a literal or symbolic sense - is "doors." Create a ten line poem or 100 word piece of flash fiction. Winners will have their work featured on a CAT bus and will have the opportunity to read their piece at an event during Try Transit Week in September. Entries must be received by 5pm.  $Free.  All ages welcome.  Email: buslines@gmail.com. For details, please click this link. 

June 8, Saturday

TEEN MOVIE MARATHON
JMRL - Gordon Avenue Library.
Dive into the summer with movie marathon madness! Harry, Ron and Hermione are back to defeat Voldemort in the final two movies in this very popular series, shown back to back! Popcorn and pizza will be served. Registration is recommended, but not required. Grades 6-12. Gordon Avenue Library.  Directions: 1500 Gordon Ave.  12-5pm.  $Free.  Email: gordon@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-5544. 

June 19, Wednesday

THEATRE GAMES
JMRL - Northside Library.
Are the bright lights of the stage calling your name? Don't let stage fright keep you away. Back by popular demand, professional actor and musician Koda Kerl will present an acting workshop with new and classic activities. Theatre games, improv, stage combat, and lots more. Required registration begins on Wednesday, June 5. Limited space. Grades 6-12. Northside Library.  Directions: 300 Albemarle Square.  2-3:30pm.  $Free.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-7893. 

June 20, Thursday

DRUM CALL: A DRUMMING WORKSHOP
JMRL - Central Library.
Do you love drumming? Join William "Whit" Whitten of Drum Call for an interactive workshop that explores the sounds of African drumming. Drums will be provided. Required registration begins on Thursday, June 6. Limit: 20 participants. Ages 10 and up. Central Library.  Directions: 201 E. Market Street.  2-3pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 6 to 12.  Email: central@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 979-7151. 

Now through August 19

HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTOR COMPETITION
Virginia Film Festival.
Take your passion for filmmaking and create an entry for ACTION! The Virginia Film Festival's High School Director Competition. Submissions are welcomed from rising 10th-, 11th- and 12th-graders from throughout Virginia. Cash prizes for three winning submissions, as well as a screening at the upcoming Virginia Film Festival. Contact: Jane Freeman.  Email: janefreeman@virginia.edu. For details, please click this link. 

Second Monday of the month

ANIME CLUB
JMRL - Northside Library.
Help us pick which anime episodes to watch and enjoy the poky! Registration recommended but not required. Grades 6-12. JMRL - Northside Library.  Directions: 300 Albemarle Square.  6:30-8:30pm.  $Free.  Email: northside@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-7893. 

Second Tuesday of the month

CROZET TEEN ADVISORY BOARD (TAB)
JMRL - Crozet Library.
Your ideas are needed! Be a part of the Crozet Library Teen Advisory Board! Help plan teen programs, displays, and activities. Members will enjoy yummy snacks and receive volunteer hours for their participation with TAB. Registration recommended. Grades 6-12. Crozet Library.  Directions: 5791 Three Notch'd Rd, Crozet.  6:30-7:30pm.  $Free.  Email: crozet@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 823-4050. 

Starting April 25, Thursdays

GO GIRLS! EXERCISE PROGRAM
UVA - KCRC.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to relieve some stress and connect with friends! "Go Girls!" is a fun dance-based exercise program for girls that incorporates 45 minutes of Zumba and 15 minutes of casual conversation about exercise and health-related topics. The program is designed for girls ages 10-18, but moms, grandmothers, sisters, neighbors, and friends are all welcome to join the class. Kluge Children's Rehabilitation Center (KCRC) Gymnasium, 2270 Ivy Road.  5:30pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 10 to 18.  Email: am7bd@virginia.edu. For more info call: 243-6911. 

Second Wednesday of every month

GRAPHICALLY SPEAKING AND THEN SOME... A BOOK GROUP
JMRL - Central Library.
This is a graphic novel book club that will expand the boundaries of a graphic novel, book and club. Visit the GSTS blog at gstscentral.blogspot.com. Call 979-7151 ext. 4 to register. Registration is ongoing. Central Library.  4-5pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 11 to 18.  Email: central@jmrl.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: -. 

First Tuesday of every month

MUSINGS: A TEEN WRITER'S WORKSHOP
JMRL - Crozet Library.
Interested in creative writing? Join this writer's group and get inspired! Practice writing skills, learn new techniques, read works by other teen writers and hear helpful comments about your own writing. Grades 6-12. Drops-in are always welcome. Crozet Library.  Directions: 5791 Three Notched Road, Crozet.  6:30pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 13 to 18.  Email: crozet@jmrl.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 823-4050. 

ONLINE SUMMER CAMPS FAIR
From computer robot programming to tennis and horseback riding to scuba diving, you can find fabulous camps on CharlottesvilleFamily's Online Summer Camp Fair! You'll find helpful information and web links to day camps and residential camps, all over the East Coast. From traditional to special interest, you and your child will find the perfect camp. For details, please click this link. 

Last Tuesday of every month

STITCHES: AN INTER-GENERATIONAL HANDCRAFT GROUP
JMRL - Crozet.
Knitters, beaders, stitchers - come one, come all. Bring any project you're working on (or interested in learning) and join this fun group for an hour of handcrafting and sharing. Drop-ins welcome! Crozet Library.  Directions: 5791 Three Notched Road, Crozet.  4:30pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 8 to 108.  Email: crozet@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 823-4050. 

Call for session dates and times.

TEST PREP COURSES
Piedmont Virginia Community College.
SAT/ACT prep as well as GRE test preparation. For more info call: 961-5351. 

VIRTUAL TEEN LIBRARY GROUP (TAG)
JMRL - Gordon Avenue Library.
Want a say in Gordon Avenue Library teen programs? Take part in VIRTUAL TAG to help decide what kinds of programs you'd like to see and participate in. Call 295-5544 or email ht@jmrl.org to get on the VIRTUAL TAG email list. Grades 6-12. Gordon Avenue Library.  Email: ht@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link. 

Third Wednesday of every month EXCEPT November

WIRED WEDNESDAYS FOR TEENS
JMRL - Central Library.
Laptops provided in the Teen Zone. Chill or do homework, it’s your choice. No registration required. Grades 6-12. JMRL - Central Branch.  Directions: 201 E. Market St., Charlottesville.  4-5:30pm.  Recommended for ages 11 to 18.  Email: central@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 979-7151. 

MUSEUM EXHIBITS
We have many fabulous museums in our region. Visit our CharlottesvilleFamily Family Events & Festivals Calendar to plan an outing for your family and find out what's new in the rotating exhibit rooms at the Virginia Museum of Natural History, Virginia Discovery Museum, Children's Museum of Richmond, Amazement Square and others. Also, find comprehensive listings of all local and regional museums in our CF Guide to Family Fun Year-Round.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS
Charlottesville-Albemarle is rich in history. Plan an outing to one of the many famous sites in our community and in the surrounding region for your family. You'll find comprehensive listings of historical sites in our AF Guide to Family Fun Year-Round. For details, please click this link. 

Mondays

MONDAY NIGHT DINNER & A MOVIE
Bounce-n-Play of Charlottesville.
Drop your kids off with us for dinner and a movie while you go out! Bounce from 5-6pm, dinner at 6pm and movie at 6:30pm. Seminole Square Shopping Center.  5-8:30pm.  $25 per child.  Recommended for ages 5 to 10.  Email: fun@bouncenplayofcville.com. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-1111. 

Ongoing, Fridays

MUSIC & MOVEMENT
Virginia Discovery Museum.
Move your body and enjoy the music! For ages 2 & up, accompanied by an adult. Begins September 18. Virginia Discovery Museum.  Directions: East end of the Downtown Mall.  10:30am and 11:30am.  $ Free with admission.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

MUSIC ORGANIZATIONS & LESSONS
Charlottesville-Albemarle has many fabulous organizations and talented individuals offering music classes and performance opportunities for kids to participate in - even a youth orchestra! Visit our comprehensive CharlottesvilleFamily Guide to Kids Recreation Year-Round to learn more. Also, if you'd like to attend a performance, visit our CF guide to Family Fun Year-Round to discover venues and performing groups.

Mondays

MUSICAL MONDAYS WITH MS. PAM
Stanardsville UMC.
A place for children Pre-K through 2nd grade to come and explore music and rhythm. Stanardsville United Methodist Church.  Directions: Main Street, Stanardsville.  3:30-4:15pm.  $5/per week.  Contact: Julie Nitzsche.  Email: jnitzsche96@gmail.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 990-8375. 

ONLINE SUMMER CAMPS FAIR
From computer robot programming to tennis and horseback riding to scuba diving, you can find fabulous camps on CharlottesvilleFamily's Online Summer Camp Fair! You'll find helpful information and web links to day camps and residential camps, all over the East Coast. From traditional to special interest, you and your child will find the perfect camp. For details, please click this link. 

May 22, Wednesday

MEET THE BACKPACKING ADVENTURER, ANDREW SKURKA
Monticello Boy Scout District.
Andrew Skurka is an accomplished adventure athlete, speaker, guide and writer. He is the author of The Ultimate Hiker's Gear Guide and has been named Adventurer of the Year by both Outside and National Geographic Adventure magazines, as well as Person of the Year by Backpacker Magazine. The 31-year-old is most well known for his solo long-distance backpacking trips. The Moose Lodge.  Directions: 3656 Richmond Rd., Keswick. Located of of Route 250, east of I-64.  7-8:30pm.  $10 general public; $5 for scouts and scouters in uniform.  Recommended for ages 10 to 100.  Contact: Jeff Monroe.  Email: monroejeff@gmail.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 962-1808. 

May 25, Saturday

BUDDING BOTANISTS
Amazement Square.
What do chloroplasts and cupcakes have in common? Learn about what makes plants work in this innovative and yummy program! Amazement Square.  Directions: 27 Ninth Street, Lynchburg.  1pm.  All ages welcome.  Email: visitus@amazementsquare.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 845-1888. 

June 15, Saturday

BUMBLEBEE JAMBOREE
Chesterfield County Office of Virginia Cooperative Extension & Maymont.
Families can enjoy live butterflies, crafts for the kids and more! Maymont, Children's Farm Lawn.  11am-3pm.  $Free.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 804-751-4401. 

Saturdays

FREE SHOWS AT THE JOHN C. WELLS PLANETARIUM AT JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY
JMU Planetarium.
The Wells Planetarium offers free shows for the public on Saturdays during the fall and spring semesters. Our full-dome planetarium shows are perfect for families with children both young and old! Seating begins 10 minutes before showtime on a first-come, first-seated basis. Each show is followed by a 25-minute "star talk" that provides visitors with updates about the night sky, including constellations, planets and any comets that might be visible. Come learn more about your Universe! Miller Hall, Harrisonburg.  Directions: Exit 243 of I-81. Take Port Republic Rd to US-11 (Main St.). Turn right onto US-11. Turn right onto Grace St. Free parking on the right in front of Miller Hall..  2:30pm & 3:30pm.  $Free.  All ages welcome.  Contact: Shanil Virani.  Email: viranisn@jmu.edu. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 5405684071. 

Every other Monday, beginning January 23

JUNIOR NATURALISTS CLUB
Ivy Creek Foundation/Virginia Cooperative Extension.
Join 4H Junior Naturalists for a fun, hands-on club for kids who want to explore the natural world, and the fields and forests of Ivy Creek and Ragged Mountain Natural areas. The younger group (6-9 year olds) will learn about native trees and wildlife through outdoor activities, while the older group (10-13 year olds) will study our area's ecology more in-depth. Ivy Creek Natural Area, 1780 Earlysville Road.  younger group 4-5:30pm; older group 4:30-6pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 6 to 13.  Contact: Dan Bieker.  Email: danbieker@gmail.com. Reservations are required.  For more info call: 971-9618. 

ONLINE SUMMER CAMPS FAIR
From computer robot programming to tennis and horseback riding to scuba diving, you can find fabulous camps on CharlottesvilleFamily's Online Summer Camp Fair! You'll find helpful information and web links to day camps and residential camps, all over the East Coast. From traditional to special interest, you and your child will find the perfect camp. For details, please click this link. 

SCIENCE & NATURE ORGANIZATIONS
Explore the outdoors with the many terrific organizations listed in our comprehensive AF Guide to Kids Recreation Year-Round who offer special prgrams geared to children and families in our community. For details, please click this link. 

Ongoing, Thursdays

SCIENCE CLUB
Virginia Discovery Museum.
Discover the mysteries of science through hands-on activities, demonstrations and special guests. Ages 5 & up. Virginia Discovery Museum.  Directions: Downtown Mall.  4pm.  $Free with admission.  Email: vadm@vadm.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month

ELEMENTARY WEDNESDAYS
Stanardsville UMC.
Join us after school for fun silly games, scrumptious snacks and friendly faces. Kids will enjoy creative time together in a small group atmosphere where they can explore all God's goodness. Ages 3 & up. Stanardsville United Methodist Church.  Directions: Main Street, Stanardsville.  3:15-4:30pm.  $Free.  Contact: Julie Nitzsche.  Email: jnitzsche96@gmail.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 434-990-8375. 

PLAYGROUPS
Playgroups are a fun and important way for children to learn about friendships while they play. CharlottesvilleFamily has lots of playgroup resources. All ages welcome.  For details, please click this link. 

June 8, Saturday

SUMMER READING KICK-OFF HULLABALOO!
JMRL - Central Library.
School's out! the sweet start of summer fun at JMRL's annual street party. Sign up for the Summer Reading Club of choice - adults, teens or kids - and hang out for the fun. Kids can dance with ballerinas from the Charlottesville Ballet Academy from 10:30am on. Central Library.  Directions: Outside of the library, along 2nd Street.  10am-12pm.  $Free.  All ages welcome.  Email: central@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 979-7151. 

June 10, Monday

19TH ANNUAL ICE CREAM SOCIAL
JMRL - Gordon Avenue Library.
I scream, you scream... let's share some ice cream! It’s time for Gordon Avenue Library’s traditional kick-off for summer fun. Get started in the Summer Reading Program, eat ice cream, visit with Lilly with her purple plastic purse and get decorated by Ginny Sieminski of Expressions! Face Painting. Gordon Avenue Library.  6:30-8pm.  $Free.  All ages welcome.  Email: gordon@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-5544. 

June 15, Saturday

FAIRY CHASE
Maymont.
Do you believe in fairies? Enjoy a magical morning filled with whimsy and make-believe. Play games, make wishes, hear stories and receive your very own wings and wand as you learn what fairies like to do and where they like to hide. Imaginative clues guide you around the lawns of Maymont as you search for the winged creatures, finding treasures along the way. This enchanting program concludes with a sweet treat of fairy cakes and lemonade. Maymont Carriage House, Richmond.  Directions: 1700 Hampton Street, Richmond.  10:30am-12pm.  $20 per child/$18 members.  Recommended for ages 4 to 8.  Email: info@maymont.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 804-358-7166 ex. 329. 

June 20, Thursday

I DIG: WORMS!
JMRL - Gordon Avenue.
In honor of the book "How to Eat Fried Worms," celebrate tons of wormy, squirmy fun and if you are brave enough, eat a wormy treat! For ages 7 and up. Registration is required and begins on Thursday, June 6 . JMRL - Gordon Avenue.  Directions: 1500 Gordon Ave.  3pm.  $Free.  Email: gordon@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-5544. 

June 5-August 7

SUMMER FUN DAYS
Stanardsville United Methodist Church.
Preschoolers ages 2-6 (siblings welcome) with their parent, are invited to come and discover, play and grow together. Activities include fun with food, gardening, storytelling, movie mornings, arts and crafts and more. Parental consent required Stanardsville United Methodist Church.  Directions: .  10-11:30am.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 2 to 6.  Contact: Julie Nitzsche.  Email: jnitzsche96@gmail.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 985-3888. 

Thursdays

HOME SCHOOL DAY
Bounce-n-Play of Charlottesville.
Arrive before 2pm with your certification letter from the state. Seminole Square Shopping Center.  $7 for the first 2 children and $5 for each additional child.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-1111. 

Mondays and Wednesdays

TODDLER TIME
Bounce-n-Play of Charlottesville.
Bounce away at Toddler Time! Reservations are not required, however, in order to get the Toddler Time Rate please arrive before 11am. Seminole Square Shopping Center.  9:30-11am.  $5 for children under 3; free for children under 12 months and adults.  Email: fun@bouncenplayofcville.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-1111. 

Mondays

BASKETBALL THERAPEUTIC
Charlottesville Recreation & Leasure Services.
Come practice basketball skills with your friends. This activity is geared for teen and adults with physical and mental challenges. Staff participant ratio 1 to 8. Carver Center.  Directions: 4th Street NW.  4-5pm, Go to web site for more information..  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 970-3260. 

SPECIAL OLYMPICS
Special Olympics.
Special Olympics is a year-round international program of sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with mental retardation. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 980-7762. 

THERAPEUTIC TRIPS, CLASSES, & EVENTS
Charlottesville Recreation & Leisure Services.
The Therapeutic Recreation Program is for individuals, ages 8 and up,  with physical and or mental disabilities whose recreational needs cannot be met by regular programs. The goals of the activities are to improve self-esteem, health, social skills, recreation skills, safety skills, and independence while having fun. Staff participant ratio is usually 1 to 8. For information, please call or email Mildred Spicer (970-3264) or Leslie Kelley-Genson (970-3269) For details, please click this link. 

April 18-May 23, Thursdays

MONKEY BUSINESS! A PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
JMRL - Gordon Avenue Library.
Come monkey around for this 30-minute program of exciting stories, fingerplays, silly songs, and flannel stories. designed for independent 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds, but accompanying adults welcome. Registration begins March 26. Gordon Avenue Library.  Directions: 1500 Gordon Ave.  10:30am.  $Free.  Email: gordon@jmrl.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-5544. 

June 1, Saturday

HISTORICAL SOCIETY FUN DAY
Virginia Discovery Museum, Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society.
Join the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society and the Virginia Discovery Museum for an afternoon of family FUNraising. Try on period costumes, make a bark rubbing of the McIntire Ash Tree, meet an archaeologist, learn about local history and more! Rain cancels the event. Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society.  Directions: 200 Second Street NE.  1-4pm.  $10 per family, max 2 children; $5 each additional child.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-1492. 

June 17, Monday

DANCE INTO FAIRY TALES: SLEEPING BEAUTY
JMRL - Central Library.
Ballerinas pirouette into Central Library to bring a fairytale to life through story and dance. Each storytime will include a special dance class with the Charlottesville Ballet Academy based on the tale. Space is limited. Please arrive early. Doors will close at 3:05pm. Central Library.  3pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 3 to 8.  Email: central@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 979-7151. 

June 22, Saturday

BOOK FAIR TO SUPPORT VDM!
Virginia Discovery Museum, Barnes & Noble.
Support the Virginia Discovery Museum by shopping at Barnes & Noble in Charlottesville. Barnes & Noble will donate a percentage of every sale made with a special voucher (available at the museum) or by mentioning VDM to the cashier. The Virginia Discovery Museum will be present at Barnes & Noble hosting fun crafts and storytime event. Barnes & Noble Bookstore.  Directions: 1035 Emmet St N.  Email: vdmprograms@vadm.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

STORYTIMES
There are lots of storytimes around town each week. Look to "Storytimes" below to find regularly scheduled readings. For details, please click this link. 

January 5-May 25, Saturdays

DROP-IN STORYTIME
JMRL - Gordon Avenue Library.
Thirty minutes of stories, songs, rhymes and fun. No registration is required. Gordon Avenue Library.  Directions: 1500 Gordon Avenue .  11am.  $Free.  All ages welcome.  Email: gordon@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-5544. 

Wednesdays

IT'S TIME FOR STORIES
Barnes & Noble Bookstore.
Children of all ages will be entertained by our talented and cheerful booksellers. Anytime is a great time to share a favorite book with old friends and new friends. Barnes & Noble Bookstore.  Directions: 1035 Emmet Street, Barracks Road Shopping Center.  11am.  $ Free.  Contact: Sandra Cararo.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 984-0461. 

Thursdays

LOUISA LIBRARY STORYTIMES
JMRL - Louisa County Library.
Louisa County Library offers baby time for under-twos and preschool storytime for children ages 3-5, with stories, songs and learning. Louisa County Library.  Directions: 881 Davis Highway, Mineral.  $Free.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 540-894-5853. 

Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays

STORYTIME AT OVER THE MOON
Over the Moon Bookstore and Artisan Gallery.
An assortment of stories for various ages. Over the Moon Bookstore and Artisan Gallery.  Directions: 5798 Three Notch'd Road, Crozet.  11am.  $free.  For more info call: 823-1144. 

STORYTIME EVENTS
In addition to all of the regular storytimes planned around town each week there are sometimes extra special events. Look to "Storytime Events" above to find visits from costumed characters, theme parties, live storytimes on the radio, and more. For details, please click this link. 

Tuesdays

STORYTIME TUESDAYS
Virginia Discovery Museum.
Come each week for a seasonal or exhibit related story on the front porch of the Cabin. Virginia Discovery Museum, Downtown Mall.  10:30am.  $free with admission.  All ages welcome.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

Sundays

TELL US A TALE RADIO SHOW
University of Virginia's WTJU fm 91.1.
An outstanding radio program of storytelling and music for children hosted by Peter Jones. Peter also works with local school children to produce special programs. 12-2pm.  All ages welcome.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 924-0885. 

Ongoing

SCOTTSVILLE LIBRARY STORYTIMES
JMRL - Scottsville Library.
Scottsville Library offers Toddler Time for toddlers with accompanying adult and Preschool Storytime for 3- to 5-year-olds ready to enjoy songs, fingerplays and books on their own. Scottsville Library.  Directions: 330 Bird Street, Scottsville.  $Free.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 286-3541. 

Wednesdays

NELSON LIBRARY STORYTIME
JMRL - Nelson Memorial Library.
Enjoy 30 minutes of storytime fun for children ages 3-5. No registration required. Nelson Memorial Library.  Directions: 8521 Thomas Nelson Highway, Lovingston.  10:30-11am.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 3 to 5.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 263-5904. 

CENTRAL LIBRARY STORYTIMES
JMRL - Central Library .
Central Library offers two sessions of Mother Goose Time, for walkers and pre-walkers under 2; Storytime Stew for ages 5 and under; Toddler Time for 2-year-olds; and preschool power for children ages 3-5 without accompanying adults or siblings. Central Library .  Directions: 201 East Market Street.  $Free.  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 979-7151. 

June 3, Monday

NORTHSIDE PLAYERS DRAMA CLUB
JMRL - Northside Library.
Calling all actors, join us for a monthly theater workshop. You'll explore improv, story theater, and puppetry, play fun theater games, and much more! No experience necessary; just bring your creativity. For grades 3 and up. Registration is required and ongoing. Northside Library.  4pm.  $Free.  Email: northside@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-7893. 

ONLINE SUMMER CAMPS FAIR
From computer robot programming to tennis and horseback riding to scuba diving, you can find fabulous camps on CharlottesvilleFamily's Online Summer Camp Fair! You'll find helpful information and web links to day camps and residential camps, all over the East Coast. From traditional to special interest, you and your child will find the perfect camp. For details, please click this link. 

THEATRE AND DANCE CLASSES AND PERFORMANCE GROUPS
Charlottesville-Albemarle is filled with talent! Your young dancer or actor is sure to find a class or group to enjoy. Look to our AF Guide to Kids Recreation Year-Round to find many terrific organizations offering dance classes and theatre classes. Also, watch the Family Events and Festivals Calendar for specific performances and review the AK Guide to Family Fun Year-Round to see which groups do shows for families.