April 2012
Top Pick Events
MATHALIVE
March 10 - June 3, 2012 I RIPLEY CENTER - SMITHSONIAN, WASHINGTON DC
Through 40 interactives, this exhibition brings to life the real math behind some of the activities children like. Visitors young and old can ride snowboards in 4-D, design and play their own video games, capture their images in 360 degrees, jump into a fractal dance party, design a custom skateboard, operate simulations of NASA's latest robotics, test their bridge-building skills, and design the infrastructure for an ecologically sustainable city. Professionals, visionaries, and inspiring personalities in a variety of fields -- design, engineering, technology, and science -- share how they use math in their work. Designed for students in upper elementary and middle school. To schedule a field trip, visit the web or call 202-633-0050.
THE WAR CAME BY TRAIN 150TH ANNIVERSARY CIVIL WAR EXHIBIT
Ongoing through May 1, 2015: Mon-Sat 10:00AM-4:00PM; Sun 11:00 AM-4:00PM I BALTIMORE AND OHIO RAILROAD MUSEUM, BALTIMORE
The B&O Railroad participated in American's Civil War and changed the course of American history.
DIVIDED VOICES, MARYLAND IN THE CIVIL WAR
Ongoing through May 6, 2015 I MARYLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, BALTIMORE
The impact of the war on the people of Maryland will be told in personal terms in “Divided Voices: Maryland in the Civil War.” The largest Civil War exhibit in the museum’s 167-year history will occupy over 5,000 square feet and tell the story of a tragedy in three acts: the romantic war, the real war and the long reunion.
READ TO A DOG!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012: 4:45 PM I DAMASCUS BRANCH LIBRARY, DAMASCUS
School-age children, especially beginners learning to read and those who want to improve their confidence in reading skills, are invited to practice reading aloud in short (5-10 minute) semi-private sessions with a calm and patient certified therapy dog, a rescued greyhound. First-come, first-served. No registration required; no younger siblings. FREE.
CHESS CLUB
Tuesday, April 3, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Learn to play chess or sharpen your skills for ages 8 and up. Every Tuesday at 6:30. No registration necessary.
CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, April 4, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.
CYPRESS TRIO--CAJUN MUSIC
Wednesday, April 4, 2012: 5:30 PM I POTOMAC BRANCH LIBRARY, POTOMAC
Musical fun for the whole family. The Cypress Trio sings in French(translates beforehand) and discusses the background of Cajun music. The audience is invited to join in. One hour. No registration required. Free.
THE SHAZAM MAGIC SHOW STARRING MAGICIAN PETER WOOD
Thursday, April 5, 2012: 2:00 PM I POOLESVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY, POOLESVILLE
Come be enthralled and entranced by the mystifying magic of magician Peter Wood. This is performance is for all ages and no registration is required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Montgomery County, MD Inc.
IMAGINATION & CREATION EXPLORATION
Friday, April 6, 2012: 3:00PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
This activity is specially designed for children ages five through eight. Each week come and face a new I.C.E. challenge based on our monthly theme. Our theme for April is Hot and Cold. Come get fired up as we learn what effect extreme heat can have on ordinary objects, Then cool your jets as things start to get icy.
USED BOOK SALE
Saturday, April 7, 2012: 10:00 AM I QUINCE ORCHARD BRANCH LIBRARY, GAITHERSBURG
Lots of books, videos, CDs, DVDs for all ages. 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Quince Orchard Library. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Quince Orchard Chapter. For more information call 240-777-0200.
GUIDED TOUR OF THE WAR CAME BY TRAIN
Saturday, April 7, 2012: 12:00 PM I B & O RAILROAD MUSEUM, BALTIMORE
Join a senior docent for a guided tour of the American Civil War exhibit, The War Came By Train. Learn about the role of the B&O Railroad during the Civil War and see the largest collection of locomotives and rolling stock that served during the War. Listen to stories of actual people that worked for the railroad during that critical time in America's history.
READ TO A DOG!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012: 4:45 PM I DAMASCUS BRANCH LIBRARY, DAMASCUS
School-age children, especially beginners learning to read and those who want to improve their confidence in reading skills, are invited to practice reading aloud in short (5-10 minute) semi-private sessions with a calm and patient certified therapy dog, a rescued greyhound. First-come, first-served. No registration required; no younger siblings. FREE.
CHESS CLUB
Tuesday, April 10, 2012: 6:30 PM
MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Learn to play chess or sharpen your skills for ages 8 and up. Every Tuesday at 6:30. No registration necessary.
CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, April 11, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.
HOMEWORK HELP
Wednesday, April 11, 2012: 4:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Free homework help for children/teens in grades K-9 every Wednesday from 4-6pm, except for MCPS holidays.
KID'S BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, April 11, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
2nd,3nd and 4th graders are invited to join our monthly book club. This month's selection is The Lost Hero, by Rick Riordan.
Call for further information 240-773-9460
BOOK SALE
Saturday, April 14, 2012: 10:00 AM I GERMANTOWN BRANCH LIBRARY, GERMANTOWN
Bargains galore! 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Germantown Chapter.
SUPER SCIENCE SATURDAY: HOW THINGS FLY
Saturday, April 14, 2012: 10:00AM – 3:00 PM I AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM UDVAR-HAZY CENTER, CHANTILLY, VA
Immerse yourself in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics topics related to aviation and space exploration through demonstrations and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. Free, but $15 parking fee per vehicle.
MIKE ROSE "THE MAGIC OF A BOOK"
Saturday, April 14, 2012: 11:00 AM I SILVER SPRING BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Magician Mike Rose will be performing “The Magic of a Book.” This is a Family event. Space is limited please arrive on time. No registration required.
FAMILY DAY: ROYAL MAIL SHIP TITANIC CENTENNIAL
Saturday, April 14, 2012: 12:00 – 3:30 PM I POSTAL MUSEUM, WASHINGTON DC
You may know the story of the Titanic disaster, but did you know it was a floating post office? Learn about life onboard, the postal workers who processed tons of mail at sea, and more in hands-on activities. Related Exhibition: Fire & Ice: Hindenburg and Titanic
4-H READING BUDDIES
Saturday, April 14, 2012: 1:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Join members of the Lucky Clovers 4-H Club for reading and crafts. Grades K-5.
DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES CLUB
Saturday, April 14, 2012: 1:00 PM I DAMASCUS BRANCH LIBRARY, DAMASCUS
As a follow-up to the Damascus Heritage Museum Dollhouse Miniatures Workshops, the "Mini Wonder Workers of Damascus" will be mentoring a new group of miniature enthusiasts who signed up at the Museum. The group will make a small project each month for a nominal materials fee. If you are interested in joining the club, please contact the Damascus Library for more information.
MIKE ROSE "THE MAGIC OF A BOOK"
Saturday, April 14, 2012: 1:00 PM I LITTLE FALLS BRANCH LIBRARY, BETHESDA
Magician Mike Rose presents "The Magic of a Book" show which tells the story of how a 100 year old book, a gift from his grandfather, changed and guided his life. Mike displays the magic book and performs magic he learned from the old tome! Not registration required
TUMBLEWEEDS MUSICAL GROUP
Saturday, April 14, 2012: 3:00 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Country, bluegrass, old time, ragtime and cowboy music from the rich American musical tradition. Guitar, bass, fiddle, banjo mandolin and vocals. All ages are welcome!
WELCOME DISCOVERY! FLY-IN DAY (WEATHER PERMITTING)
Tuesday, April 17, 2012: 8:00 AM I AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM UDVAR-HAZY CENTER, CHANTILLY, VA
Welcome the Space Shuttle Discovery as it starts its new career as an American icon of the space program! Discovery is expected to depart NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a modified Boeing 747 (weather permitting) and arrive in the Washington, D.C., area around mid-morning. Join other space enthusiasts in the Udvar-Hazy Center parking lot to observe the fly-over. This event is BYOB (breakfast)! Note: The actual touchdown at Dulles airport will not be visible. Free, but $15 parking fee per vehicle. Parking lot opens at 8 AM today.
READ TO A DOG!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012: 4:45 PM I DAMASCUS BRANCH LIBRARY, DAMASCUS
School-age children, especially beginners learning to read and those who want to improve their confidence in reading skills, are invited to practice reading aloud in short (5-10 minute) semi-private sessions with a calm and patient certified therapy dog, a rescued greyhound. First-come, first-served. No registration required; no younger siblings. FREE.
CHESS CLUB
Tuesday, April 17, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Learn to play chess or sharpen your skills for ages 8 and up. Every Tuesday at 6:30. No registration necessary.
HOMESCHOOL WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP
Wednesday, April 18, 2012: 3:00 PM MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
Springtime Showers (Ages 6-8) Investigate the science of springtime storms and experiment with sound as we make instruments to mimic the pitter-patter of rain and the crashing boom of thunder. Register by phone- 410-545-5945.
HOMESCHOOL WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP
Wednesday, April 18, 2012: 3:00 PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
How Far is Far? (Ages 9-14) Explore scales in the Solar system and beyond. Get an update on the New Horizons mission to Pluto. Register by phone at 410-545-5945.
CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, April 18, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.
HOMEWORK HELP
Wednesday, April 18, 2012: 4:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Free homework help for children/teens in grades K-9 every Wednesday from 4-6pm, except for MCPS holidays.
WELCOME DISCOVERY! STUDENT DISCOVERY DAY AND PUBLIC ACTIVITIES
Friday, April 20, 2012: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM I AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM UDVAR-HAZY CENTER, CHANTILLY, VA
Welcome the Space Shuttle Discovery as it starts its new career as an American icon of the space program! Today, enjoy a variety of public programs: NASA's Our Future in Space, NASA astronaut and scientist appearances. Ask-an-Expert talks, Science demonstrations, IMAX space movies. Free, but $15 parking fee per vehicle
IMAGINATION & CREATION EXPLORATION
Friday, April 20, 2012: 3:00PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
This activity is specially designed for children ages five through eight. Each week come and face a new I.C.E. challenge based on our monthly theme. Our theme for April is Hot and Cold. Come get fired up as we learn what effect extreme heat can have on ordinary objects, Then cool your jets as things start to get icy.
SHAZAM MAGIC SHOW
Saturday, April 21, 2012: 11:00 AM I GERMANTOWN BRANCH LIBRARY, GERMANTOWN
An amazing magic show featuring visual magic, tricks, comedy, and audience participation. Limited Seating. Free tickets available in the Library beginning at 5:30 p.m., Tues., 4/17/12. No one admitted without a ticket.
FAMILY DAY: EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE: EVERYBODY LOOKS UP!
Saturday, April 21, 2012: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM I AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM, WASHINGTON DC
Discover the universe! Observe the sky through telescopes, experience how different cultures see the sky, build your own astrolabe and pocket solar clock, talk to experts about telescopes and other astronomical instruments, and enjoy stories and activities for all ages.
EARTH DAY
Saturday, April 21, 2012: 12:00-4:00 PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
Join us in celebrating our home, the planet Earth. During our Earth Day extravaganza, we’ll be exploring family-friendly ways to adopt a greener lifestyle and help conserve our planet’s resources. Guests will learn how to identify edible herbs and participate in a cooking demonstration, make a container garden from recycled materials and discuss the effects of plastic bags on our environment. The day will be full of hands on experiments, workshops and live demonstrations. All activities are free with paid admission, completely free for members.
THE RELUCTANT DRAGON PUPPET SHOW
Saturday, April 21, 2012: 1:00 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Bob Brown Puppets presents the hilarious adventures of the Reluctant Dragon. Free show for children age 4 and up.
UTSAV - "GLIMPSES OF INDIA"
Saturday, April 21, 2012: 2:00 PM I QUINCE ORCHARD BRANCH LIBRARY, GAITHERSBURG
Our annual festival of Indian music and dance, including a Penny Theatre presentation of "Little Babaji". Please register for one session, either 2 PM or 3 PM, but not both. Register online after April 7th. Registration is required.
EARTH DAY PARTY FOR THE PLANET
Sunday, April 22, 2012: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM I NATIONAL ZOO, WASHINGTON DC
Find out about simple daily actions you can take to enjoy a more environmentally friendly lifestyle: get our Green Tips. We have lots of information about how to reduce your lunch waste, how you can make sustainable seafood choices, how to conserve water, and much more. Free and open to the public.
ACT IT OUT KIDS BOOK CLUB
Monday, April 23, 2012: 7:00 PM I ROCKVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
For children in grades Kindergarten, first and second grades. We will share stories and act them out. Please register at 240-777-0140.
READ TO A DOG!
Tuesday, April 24, 2012: 4:45 PM I DAMASCUS BRANCH LIBRARY, DAMASCUS
School-age children, especially beginners learning to read and those who want to improve their confidence in reading skills, are invited to practice reading aloud in short (5-10 minute) semi-private sessions with a calm and patient certified therapy dog, a rescued greyhound. First-come, first-served. No registration required; no younger siblings. FREE.
CHESS CLUB
Tuesday, April 24, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Learn to play chess or sharpen your skills for ages 8 and up. Every Tuesday at 6:30. No registration necessary.
HOMESCHOOL WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP
Wednesday, April 25, 2012: 3:00 PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
Transit of Venus (Ages 9-14) Venus will cross in front of the Sun on June 5. Learn what makes this a rare and special event to see and learn how to observe it yourself. Register by phone- 410-545-5945.
CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, April 25, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.
HOMEWORK HELP
Wednesday, April 25, 2012: 4:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Free homework help for children/teens in grades K-9 every Wednesday from 4-6pm, except for MCPS holidays.
KIDS BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, April 25, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
5th and 6th graders are invited to join or monthly book club. This month's selection is Scat, by Carl Hiaasen. For further information call 240-773-9460.
JAM-MIN’ FAMILY DAY
Saturday, April 28, 2012: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM I AMERICAN ART MUSEUM, WASHINGTON DC
American Art celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM)! Baltimore Jazz Alliance’s Jazz for Kids band presents an introduction to jazz music, with a family-friendly mini-concert including audience participation. Children can also visit a “petting zoo” of musical instruments, where they try out some or all the band’s instruments—drums, flute, saxophone, clarinet, recorder, bass, violin, guitar, trumpet, and trombone.
OPEN HOUSE: PONDS CREEKS AND PUDDLES
Thursday, April 26, 2012: 12:00-1:30 PM I SHARP'S AT WATERFORD FARM, BROOKEVILLE
Hayride to creek/catch critters/discuss habitats/life cycles & feed the farm animals. $7.00/child. Adults free. Registration required by April 25. “Healthy Eats” option available for additional $2.00/person.
BOB BROWN PUPPETS PRESENT "DRAGON FEATHERS"
Saturday, April 28, 2012: 1:00 PM I ROCKVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Come to a puppet show at the library and meet some very silly dragons! For preschool and up. No registration necessary.
SHAZAM MAGIC SHOW
Saturday, April 28, 2012: 2:30 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Not just for kids, not just for adults: The Shazam Magic Show is a family experience!
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Submit Your Event to HSM!
If you know of a future family-friendly event geared to our community of homeschoolers, please let us know!Send an email to Homeschool Montgomery. Please allow 4 weeks notice for possible inclusion.
LIBRARY INFO
For hours and locations of Montgomery County Branch Libraries click here.
FIELD TRIP IDEA
Tour the Federal Reserve in Baltimore: For your homeschool economic studies – here’s a great place to tour – the Federal Reserve in Baltimore
"We offer group tours of 30 or fewer attendees by appointment. Developed for high school and college students and teachers, our tours seek to reinforce classroom instruction and promote economic education and financial literacy. What you will see - Our tours focus on bank operations and monetary policy and may include a video presentation on the functions of the Federal Reserve System upon request. Generally, tours of the Baltimore Branch take 90 minutes to complete, but can be customized based on the special interests of the group. Please note, cell phones and cameras are not permitted inside the building. - For more information or to schedule a tour, please call Diana Wilkes in the Public Affairs Department at 410-576-3387."
Submit Your Event to HSM!
If you know of a future family-friendly event geared to our community of homeschoolers, please let us know!Send an email to Homeschool Montgomery. Please allow 4 weeks notice for possible inclusion.
LIBRARY INFO
For hours and locations of Montgomery County Branch Libraries click here.
FIELD TRIP IDEA
Tour the Federal Reserve in Baltimore: For your homeschool economic studies – here’s a great place to tour – the Federal Reserve in Baltimore
"We offer group tours of 30 or fewer attendees by appointment. Developed for high school and college students and teachers, our tours seek to reinforce classroom instruction and promote economic education and financial literacy. What you will see - Our tours focus on bank operations and monetary policy and may include a video presentation on the functions of the Federal Reserve System upon request. Generally, tours of the Baltimore Branch take 90 minutes to complete, but can be customized based on the special interests of the group. Please note, cell phones and cameras are not permitted inside the building. - For more information or to schedule a tour, please call Diana Wilkes in the Public Affairs Department at 410-576-3387."