traverse bay tots
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The Resource Guide For Parents Of Preschoolers In The Traverse Bay AreaTRANSCRIPT
Volume 1 • 2010
Created By The Moms Club
of the Traverse Bay Area ™ www.themomsclub.net
Published annually by Momstyle News, LLC
PO Box 43 Traverse City, Michigan 49685
(888) 809-5012 FAX (888) 809-5012
[email protected] www.momstylenews.com
Angeline Duran Piotrowski
Publisher/Ad Sales
Printed by The Pioneer Group Big Rapids, Michigan
Traverse Bay Tots is available
free throughout the Traverse Bay Area
For advertising information
(888) 809-5012 [email protected]
www.themomsclub.net www.traversebaytots.com
Traverse Bay Tots and The
Moms Club of the Traverse Bay Area are community
service projects directed by and trademarks of
Momstyle News, LLC
The entire content of the Traverse Bay Tots directory is copyrighted. No part may be
reprinted or reproduced online or in print without the expressed written consent of
Momstyle News, LLC.
© 2010 Momstyle News, LLC
ABOUT TRAVERSE BAY TOTS It is with great enthusiasm that The Moms Club of the Traverse Bay Area™ set out to create this directory of community resources. As parents of young children we encounter many “firsts” that weren’t part of our pre-child lives. Selecting a first winter coat for a toddler, a first midnight visit to urgent care, a first assessment of the age-appropriateness of a playground, and a need for support when we realize that life with a young child has opened up a whole new world that we had never even imagined. We often turn to each other for advice about where to find the new services our families need, and sharing this kind of information among friends is very helpful, but we thought it would be even better to have a comprehensive bedside directory at our fingertips. That is what this first edition of Traverse Bay Tots aspires to be. A great deal of time and effort has been spent to create a definitive directory of resources for Traverse Bay Area families of children ages 0 to 5. We are very proud of what we have accomplished, but are certain we have failed to know of and include every service that should be listed in a book like this. We hope that this annual directory will become a collaborative community project that you will add to with your suggestions for future listings. If you know of a new service that should be listed, please give us a call at (888) 809-5012 or email [email protected]. It will be added immediately to the online edition of Traverse Bay Tots at www.themomsclub.net and www.traversebaytots.com and printed in the Traverse Bay Tots 2011 edition. We would especially like to thank our sponsoring businesses and community programs, without whose funding this publication would not be possible. They include: All About Vacation Rentals, Bright Beginnings Preschool & Childcare Center, Cherry Home Orchards, The Children’s House, Children’s Therapy Corner, .E4, Easling Pool, Elk Rapids Schools, EverywhereUGO, Excel Institute, Families First Monthly, Foreclosure Prevention Pros Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, Grand Traverse Children’s Clinic, Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic, Grand Traverse Woman, Hazelnut Kids Natural Toys, Holy Angels Preschool & Elementary, Kids Creek Productions, KidzArt, Kindermusik, Milestone Music Studio, Northern Michigan Vet Hospital, Photography by Scarlett, Reliv International, Sharkey’s Cuts For Kids, Sweet Pea, Traverse City Christian Preschool, Traverse City Cooperative Preschool, Traverse City Kids, Trinity Lutheran School. Please let these businesses and organizations know that you appreciate Traverse Bay Tots and the fact that they made it possible.
An online version of this directory is available at
www.themomsclub.net & www.traversebaytots.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Childcare..........................................................................................5 Learning Assistance.......................................................................21 Enrichment Classes and Mommy & Me ...................................22 Parks & Playgrounds .....................................................................26 Strolling The Outdoors................................................................31 Beaches ............................................................................................35 Camping ...........................................................................................39 Water Parks For Tots Too.........................................................40 Winter Sports & Gear For Tots................................................42 Support Organizations .................................................................44 Health & Social Services ..............................................................52 The Great Indoors ........................................................................59 Tot Shops ........................................................................................61 A Little Extra Help ........................................................................64 Kid Friendly Dining........................................................................67 First Time Homebuyers ...............................................................69 Family Events & Festivals .............................................................72 Index of Sponsors..........................................................................76
Special Thanks
A warm thank you to Laura Kalchik
publisher of Families First Monthly. Families First Monthly is a most appreciated distribution partner of this first edition of
Traverse Bay Tots. For 10 years Families First Monthly has been committed to enriching the lives of Traverse Bay Area families and continues to succeed at doing so.
Please remember to pick up your bi-monthly free copy of Families First Monthly and enjoy it as we do!
Thank you to our children for leading us to new places
and helping us appreciate community in a whole new way.
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Chi ldcare
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Parents want to entrust their children into the care of a warm and loving environment that shares the family’s values with regard to child enrichment. Traverse Bay Area parents are fortunate that there are many options for childcare in the region ranging from in-home daycare to accredited preschools.
Childcare Environment Definitions Before/After School Care Often called “Enrichment” by local schools. A state-licensed program that cares for students before and/or after school. Child Care Center A state-licensed facility (outside of a private residence) that provides care for children usually age five and younger. Family Daycare Home A state-licensed private residence that provides care for up to six children. Group Daycare Home A state-licensed private residence that provides care for 7 to 12 children when a second adult is present. Licensed Preschool A preschool, daycare or early childhood education center that has met required minimum health, safety and teacher training standards. CHILD CARE REFERRALS Great Start Connect Childcare Referrals Free resource and child care referral agency. 941-7767 www.greatstartforkids.org/great StartConnect.cfm
Traverse City Nannies Nanny Referrals A personal nanny referral service for families in the Traverse City Area. Serving families of children ages 0-16. 342-9822
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PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE PROVIDERS Bright Beginnings Preschool & Daycare 4100 Barnes Rd Traverse City 49684 995-9444 [email protected] www.brightbeginningschildcare.net Director: Ruth Wakeman Infants, toddlers, preschool, pre-k programs. Ages 4 weeks to 7 years. Monday-Friday 6:30am-6:00pm Rates: $150-$175 full time per week. Or $35-$40 per day with a two-day minimum.
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The Children’s House Preschool 5363 North Long Lake Rd Traverse City 49684 929-9325 [email protected] www.traversechildrenshouse.org Director: Missy Russell Montessori curriculum for ages 3 months through 6th grade. Care available 7:30am-5:30pm Fees vary by program and schedule.
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Elk Rapids Schools Preschool, Summer Day Camp 616 Buckley St Elk Rapids 49629 264-8289, 267-9955 [email protected] www.erschools.com Director: Jill Murphy “Wee” Are E.R. Preschool: Ages 3-5. Way to Grow Program: Birth-5. Kid’s Club Summer Kids Club M-F Half or Whole days 8:30am-12:00pm, 8:30pm-4:00pm Full Day: $27.00 Half Day: $16.00
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Grand Traverse Bay YMCA Childcare Daycare 1100 Woodmere Ave, Ste B Traverse City 49686 421-3568 www.gtbayymca.org Director: Molly Brown Childcare program for Infants through Pre-K. Services offered: Infant – Preschool, Kindergarten Enrichment. Creative curriculum. Breakfast & 2 snacks provided. Quality Caring Environment. Monday – Friday 6:30am to 6:00pm Infant to 2 ½ years 1 to 3 days $50/day 4/5 days $170 2 ½ to 5 years 1 to 3 days $45/day 4/5 days $145 Scholarship assistance available. Grand Traverse Bay YMCA Summer Daycamps 3000 Raquet Club Dr Traverse City 49684 933-9622 www.gtbayymca.org Grand Traverse Band Benodjenh Center Head Start Child Care 2605 NW Bayshore Dr Suttons Bay 49682 534-7650
Grand Traverse Academy Mighty Mustangs Preschool Preschool 1245 Hammond Rd E Traverse City 49686 932-6953 [email protected] www.grandtraverseacademy.com Morning preschool for ages 3 to 5 years. Extended Kindergarten care – day program for ages 5 and 6 years. Quality care before & after school for school-age children. Monday-Friday during the school year. 7:00am-6:00pm Call for current rates.
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Holy Angels Preschool & Elementary Preschool 130 E 10th St Traverse City 49684 946-5961 [email protected] www.gtacs.org Principal: Janet Troppman Ages 3, 4 and young 5’s. Age requirements based on birth date apply. 3’s Class Must be 3 years old by the first day of school AND toilet trained Tu & Th 8:15 am – 11:00 am 4’s Class Must be 4 years old by December 1, 2010 M, W & F 8:15 am – 11:00 am T, W & Th 12:15 pm – 3:00 pm Pre-K Class Must be 5 years old by December 31, 2010 M, Tu, W & Th 8:15 am – 11:15 am M, Tu, W & Th 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm Program time/dates subject to change upon enrollment need. Extended Care Options: Munson Enrichment Program On Site, Early morning drop-off program starting at 7:00 a.m. for children who attend morning programs. Full-day care/enrichment on site available through Munson from 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sign up is on a week-to-week basis and flexible upon your family’s needs. Contact the school office for more information. No extended care/enrichment available for 3’s class.
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The Pathfinder School Preschool, Summer Day Camp 11930 S West Bay Shore Dr Traverse City 49684 995-3800 [email protected] www.thepathfinderschool.org Director of Admissions & Development: Leisa Eckerle Hankins The Pre-K program offers half and full day options. 8:15am-11:30am or 8:15am-2:55pm through the school year, Sept-June. Summer Day Camp offers half & full day weekly programming for 4 & 5 year olds from June 28-August 2010. Tuition is contracted for the academic year and varies with the time and schedule selected.
Teddy Bear Daycare & Preschool Preschool, Daycare, Summer Day Camp 1497 Bass Lake Rd Traverse City 49684 941-4877 [email protected] Director: Beth Fryer Serves ages 18 months to 6 years. 7:00am-5:30pm Monday-Friday Children who have completed toilet learning: Full time $28/day, Part time $30/day. Children who have not completed toilet learning: Full time $30/day, Part time $35/day. 2200 sq ft. Large fenced play yard. Acreage to hike on. Science experiences year round. No T.V. Head Start partner, Angelcare Foundation. Summer Camp for children entering Kindergarten.
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Traverse City Area Public Schools Preschool, Summer Day Camp, Ready-4’s Campuses throughout the Traverse City Area Admin Office: 412 Webster P.O. Box 23 Traverse City 49685 933-1780 www.tcaps.net Preschool / Enrichment offers half day programming for 3-5 year olds, including kindergartners and is a fee-based program. The Ready Four School Program is tuition free and offers a half-day program and serves children who are four years old by December 1st of the year enrollment is sought. Hours are school related and the cost is $27 per day or $16 per half day.
Traverse City Area Public Schools Montessori at Glenn Loomis Preschool 1009 S Oak St Traverse City 49684 933-5608, 933-6497 www.tcaps.net Toddler Montessori ages: 18 months-36 months Primary Montessori ages: 3 years-6 years. Includes Kindergarten. Toddler Hours: 8:05am-11:10am & 12:00pm-3:05pm, All day 8:05am-3:05pm $28/half day, $47/full day Primary Hours: 8:15am-11:22am & 12:0wpm-3:08pm, All Day Enrichment Program Available. $3350 per year (based on 10 months) for preschool children ages 3-5. No fee for Kindergarten students, costs are covered by Michigan Department of Education as a regular school program.
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Traverse City Christian Preschool Preschool 1514 Birmley Rd Traverse City 49686 946-5276 [email protected] www.tcchristianschools.org Director: Linda Rundle Traverse City Christian Pre-school is a Christian based preschool program for 4 year-olds and Young 5s. The program provides a warm and nurturing environment that addresses children’s social/emotional, intellectual, spiritual and physical development. Children have opportunities to learn through active play and teacher-guided exploration. 4 year olds: Full Days $28/day Mon, Wed, Fri 8:00am-2:40pm or 8:00am-11:00am Mon, Wed or Fri (any 2) 8:00am-2:40pm or 8:00am-11:00am Young 5’s: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00am-2:40pm
Traverse City Christian Pre-School & Young Fives
Young Minds
Learning About God’s
Love and Our World…
Traverse City Christian School Elementary, Pre-School & Young Fives 1514 Birmley Rd., Traverse City, MI 49686
231-946-5276 www.tcchristianschools.org
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Traverse City Cooperative Preschool Preschool 720 South Elmwood Ave, Ste 1 Traverse City 49684 946-3950 [email protected] www.tccoop.org Admissions: Kim Bealtie 938-0911 Play based, child centered curriculum designed for three, four and five year old learners. The cooperative model allows children and families to learn and grow together. The enrichment program provides field trip type experiences in the community to expose children to a multitude of activities under the guidance of an experienced teacher. ½ day classes meeting one, two or three days per week, depending on age. Tuition for one day classes is $42 per month, two day classes is $84 and three day is $126 per month. Enrichment is $40 per month.
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Trinity Lutheran Preschool Preschool 1003 S Maple St Traverse City 49684 946-3732 [email protected] www.tctrinity.org Director: Carole Rice Preschool (Ages 3 & 4) and Pre K (Ages 4 & 5) Classes are offered Monday-Friday. Our faith-based program offers a developmental curriculum in a school of excellence setting through middle school. Hot Lunch is available daily. Preschool/Pre K: $20 (Half Day 8:30am-11:30am)Preschool/Pre K: $27 (All Day 8:30am-3:00pm) Early Care: $5/day (7:00am-8:00am) All Day: $35 (7:00am-6:00pm)
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ABC Daycare 8692 Hampton Circle Grawn 49637 276-9350 A Little Schoolhouse 1620 Smith Rd Traverse City 49686 933-0289 Alphabet Soup Preschool & Day Care 222 E 14th St Traverse City 49684 941-1330 www.alphabetsouppreschool.com An Early Learning Daycare 1593 Pine Tree Rd Interlochen 49643 276-5786 Angel Care Child Care 834 Hastings St Traverse City 933-3232 Babbling Brook Day Care 2595 Four Mile Rd N Traverse City 946-3225 Central Daycare 222 Cass St Traverse City 49684 947-6131 Brilliant Minds Learning Center 18559 Maple St Lake Ann 49650 409-7512 Community Children’s Center First Congregational Church Traverse City 6105 Center Rd Traverse City 947-1650 www.fcctc.org
Cottontail Child Care 2514 West Silver Lake Rd Traverse City 933-6285 Country Lane Daycare 3100 Country Ln Traverse City, MI 941-7282 941-7282 The Cub House 100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd Acme 49610 938-5416 Firm Footings Children’s Center 6447 N Reynolds Rd Lake Ann 49650 275-2250 First Years Day Care 583 Amy Ave Traverse City 946-2318 Grand Traverse/Antrim Migrant Day Care 616 Buckley St Elk Rapids 49629 922-5343 Grand Traverse Pavillions 1000 Pavillions Circle Traverse City 932-3030 Head Start 3963 3 Mile Rd N Traverse City 933-0013 Kathy’s Child Care 5127 Dover Lane Traverse City 49684 943-4627
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Kingsley Elementary Preschool & Extended Day Program 331 Clark St Kingsley 49649 263-5161 Lakeland Child Care 616 Buckley St Elk Rapids 49629 264-8289 Leelanau Children’s Center 111 N Fifth St Leland 49654 256-7841 www.leelanauchildrenscenter.org Leelanau Children’s Center Northport 164 S High St Northport 49670 386-5144 Leelanau/Benzie Migrant Child Care 310 S Elm St Suttons Bay 49682 271-3225 Let’s Play Daycare 6111 London Dr Traverse City 49684 941-5087 Little Ones Child Care Center 2555 Garfield Rd Traverse City 49686 947-1988 Little Peoples Place 1053 Vega Dr Traverse City 946-3095 Mary’s Kid Care 929-1028 Michelle Grawn Child Care 5635 Pine Aire Dr Grawn 276-9350
Mom’s Day Care 375 Timber Hill Dr Traverse City 941-1204 Munson Child Development Center 1105 Sixth St Traverse City 935-7990 New Horizon Montessori 720 Wayne St Traverse City 49684 409-5533 Mill Creek Child Care 9039 Old M-72 Williamsburg 49690 267-9955 NMCAA Preschool 4345 Manhattan Traverse City 49684 922-2881 NMCAA Preschool – Discovery 880 Parsons Traverse City 49686 922-6273 NMCAA Preschool – Honor 2538 Indian Hill Rd Honor 49640 325-5046 NMCAA Preschool – Traverse Heights 933 Rose St Traverse City 49686 947-3780 Noah’s Ark Day Care 430 Fair St Traverse City 946-1153
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NMHSA-Head Start 3963 3 Mile Rd N Traverse City 947-3780 Peach Center 1934 High Lake Rd Traverse City 933-8833 Precious Place Day Care 1345 3 Mile Rd N Traverse City 929-3730 St. Mary’s Day Care Center 2912 W M 113 Kingsley 49649 263-7560 Suttons Bay Early Childhood Education Program 310 Elm St Suttons Bay 49682 271-3225 Suttons Bay Migrant Head Start 1878 SW Bayshore Dr Suttons Bay 49682 271-0600 St. Mary Preschool 209 St Mary St, Unit B2 Lake Leelanau 49653 256-9636 Sweetie Bug Day Dare 4422 Audubon Traverse City 941-0662 Two By Two Family Home Day Care 235 E 11th St Traverse City 929-1760 The Wooden Pony 11300 Munro Rd Williamsburg 49690 264-8371
Drop-In Care Available In most cases pre-registration is required for drop-in services. Please call for details at individual centers. See listings above for location information. Alphabet Soup Preschool 941-1330 Brilliant Minds Learning Center 409-7512 The Cub House 938-5416 Mill Creek Child Care 267-9955 Noah’s Ark Day Care 946-9451 Suttons Bay Kids Club 271-4878 Summer Programs Available Please call for details at individual centers. See listings in Childcare section above for location information. Alphabet Soup Preschool & Day Care 941-1330 Community Children’s Center 947-1650 Elk Rapids Schools 264-8289, 267-9955 The Pathfinder School 995-3800 Teddy Bear Daycare & Preschool 941-4877 Traverse City Area Public Schools 933-1780 YMCA 933-9622
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Learning Assistance
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Helping hands for kids with learning differences.
Grand Traverse Dyslexia Services & Tutoring 9938 E Valley Hills Dr Traverse City 49684 929-7485 www.gtdyslexiaservices.com Icon Learning 221 Garland St, Ste J Traverse City 49684 421-3888 www.iconlearning.org Sylvan Learning Center 2506 Crossing Circle Traverse City 49684 941-0600 www.tutoring.sylvanlearning.com
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Enrichment Classes
and Mommy & Me
ART KidzArt Cherryland Center 1738 S Garfield (next to Sally Beauty Supply) Traverse City 421-1222 DANCE Ballet Etc. Dance Institute 869 Robinwood Ct Traverse City 49686 929-2787 Dance Arts Academy 3811 Marketplace Circle Traverse City 49684 941-4244 Dance Center 225 E 14th St Traverse City 947-6820
MARTIAL ARTS ATA Black Belt Academy Classes and Camp 1127 Centre St Traverse City 49686 933-4744 [email protected] www.traverseata.com Director: Chris Pline Martial Arts Classes for all age groups including: Tiny Tigers for ages 3 to 6 Juniors ages 7 to 12 Teens & Adults Monday through Saturday 3 class confidence course $59 Seung-ni Martial Arts Academy 965 Industrial Park Circle Traverse City 932-4300 MOM & BABY FITNESS Equilibrium Fitness Studio 122 S Union St, Ste 210 Traverse City 620-2834 www.efstc.com SPORTS Grand Traverse Bay YMCA 3000 Racquet Club Dr Traverse City 49684 933-9622 www.gtbayymca.org Traverse Bay Area Youth Soccer (TBAYS) 160 Hughes Dr Traverse City 49686 933-8229 www.tbays.org
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Water’s Edge Gymnastics 971 Lynch Dr Traverse City 49686 941-7751 www.edgegymnastics.net TOT TIME Organizations below host structured Tot Time activities. Call for schedule. Boardman River Nature Center Peepers program includes indoor & outdoor activities for preschoolers age 3+. $3/child. 1450 Cass Rd Traverse City 49684 941-4263 www.gtcd.org Great Lakes Children’s Museum Hosted activities free with museum admission. 13240 S West Bay Shore Dr Traverse City 49684 932-4526 www.greatlakeskids.org Michigan State Univeristy Extension Community Playgroups. Free. Barbara Reynolds (231) 922-4824 www.msue.msu.edu Traverse Bay Area District Library Story and activity time. Various locations. Free. 932-8500 www.tadl.org Way To Grow – TCAPS Playgroups. Various locations. Free. 933-1780 www.tcaps.net
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Way To Grow – TBAISD Playgroups. Various locations. Free. 922-6437 [email protected] www.tbaisd.k12.mi.us migreatparents.org Director: Yvonne Donohoe Way To Grow is a collaboration of area schools and community agencies under the auspices of Traverse Bay Area ISD. This five-county program is designed to engage all families with children aged birth to five years by enriching the preschool years and promoting school readiness. Together we offer: Home Visits Play Groups Parent Meetings Resource and Referral Information
MUSIC Kindermusik Logan’s Landing 2070 W South Airport Rd Traverse City 631-7751 www.musicwithmelinda.kindermusic.net Milestones Music Studio Logan’s Landing 2070 W S Airport Rd, Traverse City 645-5370 milestonesmusicstudio.homestead.com Classes & lessons also offered in: Manistee, Cadillac, Bear Lake, and Glen Arbor. Traverse Community Music Musical instrument instruction. 629 E Eighth St, Traverse City 49686 932-2227 www.traversemusic.com
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SWIMMING CLASSES Easling Pool at Civic Center 1213 W Civic Center Dr Traverse City 922-4814 www.grandtraverse.org/parks Grand Traverse Bay YMCA Seasonal aquatics. Call for schedule and location. 933-9622 www.gtbayymca.com Grand Traverse Pavilions Aquatic/WellnessCenter 1000 Pavilions Circle Traverse city 932-3172
Grand Traverse Resort For members only. 100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd Acme 49610 (800) 236-1577 Great Wolf Lodge 3575 N US Highway 31 Traverse City (866) 274-3203 Premier Health & Fitness Baby Swim through Munson Community Health 935-7331
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Parks & Playgrounds
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Well managed public spaces and a neighborly community atmosphere are two of the idyllic qualities of life in the Traverse Bay Area. Community parks and playgrounds, large and small, are tucked into neighborhoods throughout our community. Grand Traverse County Parks & Recreation Department 922-4818 Traverse City Department of Public Service: Parks & Recreation 922-4910
KEY
Bathroom Trail
Picnic Area Swimming PLAYGROUNDS AT SCHOOLS These playgrounds are open to the public at times when school is not in session. Blair Elementary School 1625 Sawyer Rd
Central Elementary Grade School 301 W Seventh St Cherry Knoll Elementary School 1800 Three Mile Rd N
Courtade Elementary School 1111 Rasho Rd
Eastern Elementary School 1600 Eastern Ave Fife Lake Elementary School 108 Pierce St
Glen Loomis Elementary School 1009 Oak St Holy Angels Preschool & Elementary 130 E Tenth St Immaculate Conception Middle School 218 Vine St Interlochen Elementary School 3113 S M-137
Kingsley Elementary School 311 Clark St Living God Christian Elementary School 1514 Birmley Rd Long Lake Elementary School 7738 N. Long Lake Rd
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Mill Creek Elementary School 9039 Old M-72 E Montessori Children’s House 5363 N. Long Lake Rd
Oak Park Elementary School 301 S Garfield Rd Old Mission Peninsula Elementary School 2735 Island View Rd
Silver Lake Elementary School 5858 Culver Rd
South Boardman Elementary 7741 Shipy Rd
St Marys of Hannah School 2912 W M-113 Traverse Bay Christian Elem. School 1895 N Keystone Rd Traverse City Christian Schools 753 Emerson Rd Traverse Heights Elementary School 933 Rose St
Trinity Lutheran School 1003 S Maple St Willow Hill Elementary School 1250 Hill St
PUBLIC PLAYGROUNDS ACME Bayside Park Shores Beach Ln (on US 31 N, south of the Shell near US 31/M-72 intersection)
Woodland Creek Furniture 4290 N US N Hwy 31 Sayler Park Yuba Park Rd (on the west side of US 31 N)
The best of all worlds is an enclosed outdoor playground next to a café. Such is the playground
tucked behind Woodland Creek Furniture
4290 N Us Highway 31 Traverse City (Acme) 49686
938-8025 Have a romp and then nip over to the café next door for an ice cream cone! BLAIR Blair Township Park 2121 County Rd 633
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EAST BAY Pine Grove Park 920 Hemlock St
Grace MacDonald Park (Forest Lake Park) 133 East Arbutus Lake Rd
Pines Park 1750 Eikey Rd
Gen’s Park 2263 US 31 North
Traverse City State Park 887 Munson (US 31 North)
INTERLOCHEN Green Lake Township Memorial Park 5435 Karlin Rd
Interlochen State Park 9375 Park Entrance
LONG LAKE Maurice E. Haywood Township Park 8870 N Long Lake Rd
KINGSLEY MayField Pond Park 2200 Mill St
Village of Kingsley South Property South End of Clark St
Brownson Memorial Park South Brownson Ave
A universally accessible playground is now completed at Twin Lakes Park!
6800 N Long Lake Rd 8 miles west of Traverse City
People of all abilities, including toddlers and kids in wheelchairs can play and learn in this active environment. OLD MISSION PENINSULA Bower’s Harbor Township Park 2740 Bowers Harbor Rd
Archie Park M-37 Near Gray & Bluff Roads
Haserot Beach 4064 Swaney Rd
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TRAVERSE CITY Ashton Park Entrance at South end of N Madison St
Boon St Tot Lot (Arbutus Court Park) 939 Boon St
Bryant Park 1101 Peninsula Dr
Civic Center 1213 W Civic Center Dr
Clancy Park West Orchard Dr at Sheridan Dr
Darrow Park Monroe St at W Grandview Parkway
East Bay Park S East Bay Blvd at E Front St
F&M Park 221 Cass St
Indian Woods Park Indian Woods Dr at Comanche St
Keystone Park Keystone and Birmley Rds
Sunset Park 635 E Front St
Traverse Bay Area Public Library 610 Woodmere Ave
WILLIAMSBURG Whitewater Recreational Facility 6075 Elk Lake Rd
MINI GOLF Great Wolf Lodge Mini-golf is available to public, you do not have to be a guest. 3575 N US Highway 31 Traverse City (866) 274-3203 Pirates Cove Adventure Park Pirate themed mini-golf with caves, foot bridges, and running water. 1710 N US Hwy 31 N Traverse City 938-9599
Thank you to the Grand Traverse County Parks & Recreation Department for assisting with the compilation of this list of outdoor playgrounds.
Grand Traverse County Parks & Recreation Department (231)922-4818 www.co.grand-traverse.mi.us
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INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS
Grand Traverse Mall “The Tree” is the official indoor playground at the mall. It is located near Macy’s and is appropriate for babies through preschoolers. The food court has a carousel (rides are $1/child) and some amusement vehicles that kids can pretend to drive. They are fun to climb in, but to “make them go” costs a few quarters. 3200 South Airport Rd W Traverse City 49684 922-0077 Great Lakes Children’s Museum Children’s exploratorium teaching kids the wonders of The Great Lakes. Features include a climbing structure, slide, water table, play kitchen, lighthouse play house, art corner, baby sensory play area, various multi-media and sensory exhibits, and a common room that frequently hosts organized activities. 13240 S West Bayshore Dr Traverse City 932-4526 www.greatlakeskids.org McDonald’s PlayPlace Climbing tubes and slides. Best suited for children age 3+ who are tall enough to climb the steps. 933 US Hwy 31 Traverse City 49684 943-0774 Burger King Playground East Traverse Climbing tubes, passages, and slides. Best suited for preschoolers age 3+. 2504 Us 31 North Traverse City 49686 938-3600
Burger King B.K. Clubhouse Chum’s Corners “Clubhouse” climbing passageways and slide are all toddler accessible. 920 Us 31 South Traverse City 49684 943-9600 Art Van Kids Castle Of course this is intended to be used only by Art Van customers, but if you have to do a little furniture shopping anyway, make it a family outing. 1775 Oak Hollow Dr Traverse city 49686 932-1050
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Strol l ing The Outdoors
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Surf and turf. Snow and sun. The Traverse Bay Area is an all seasons outdoor-lover’s paradise. Good stewardship of our natural spaces is a responsibility that is proudly shouldered by many community organizations. Trail marking and maintenance is one of the invaluable services they provide, enabling families to access and enjoy our natural splendors. Below is a list of natural areas with notably well maintained trails, and some with indoor visitor areas, that families with small children, jogging strollers, and baby packs can easily enjoy.
Grand Traverse Conservation District www.gtcd.org 941-0960 Boardman River Nature Center 1450 Cass Rd Traverse City The headquarters of the Natural Education Reserve along the Boardman River. The Nature Center features an exhibit gallery, theater room, craft area for kids, and houses a weekly educational program for preschoolers called “Peepers”, as well as an environmental education program for homeschoolers age 5 to 12. Step outside the nature center to enjoy the 7 miles of trails, boardwalks, bridges, canoe portage sites, boat launch and picnic area. Brown Bridge Quiet Area 3408 Brown Bridge, Traverse City The backwaters of the Brown Bridge Dam (built in 1921) form the Brown Bridge Quiet Area which features designated trails and boardwalks, fishing, no wake boating, and wildlife observation.
Commons Natural Area The grounds of Grand Traverse Commons at1200 West 11th St Traverse City Offering the enjoyment of quiet outdoor recreation on the grounds of one of the areas most historic landmarks, “the old state hospital”. In 1885, the state hospital opened in what is now known as the Grand Traverse Commons. The lands behind the hospital were to be used as a self-sustaining farm operation, partially worked by the patients as a form of therapy. They are now maintained as a series of hiking trails. Hickory Meadows 2000 Randolph St Traverse City 49684 Paths meander through meadows and upland forests to enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and dog walking. Picnic Area On the north side of Keystone Pond, just west of the Boardman Dam on Cass Road. There is a boat launch and parking area, and a short trail along the north side of the Pond. .
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Protecting Baby In Sun & Heat Parents are challenged to keep babies protected from both sun and heat. When riding in a pack or baby carrier babies are especially vulnerable to become overheated. During warm weather you can dress your youngster in a white, cotton, long-sleeved onesie; long, white, cotton pants; and thin, white cotton socks. These articles of clothing are cool and naturally deflect both sun and insects. A brimmed safari-style hat will shade his face, ears and neck. When hiking on very hot days with baby in a front or back pack you can remove his pants to prevent his torso from becoming overheated and slip a pair of thin, white, crew length adult socks over his legs for protection from sun and bugs all the way up to his hips. A small lightweight travel umbrella is a great summer backpack item to provide shade wherever you go. Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy www.gtrlc.org 929-7911
The Moms Club of the
Traverse Bay Area playgroups hiked all of these
Conservancy natural areas, accompanied by walking toddlers and babies in jogging strollers, to test the trails’ tot and stroller friendliness. They get high marks on both counts. Fun was had by all. Go for it!
Maple Bay Farm and Natural Area A short trail through hemlock forests will lead you to a day at the beach. During warm weather remember mosquito repellent for the walk. Approximately 5 miles north of Acme along US-31. The entrance to the Conservancy parcel and parking area is located approximately one mile north of Angel Road on the west side of US-31. Drive the dirt road through the farmland, park and enter the foot trail through the gate.
Meadow Forest Trails A wonderful expanse of forest and meadow newly enhance with trails on Old Mission Peninsula. Enter on the meadow just past Homestead Ct parking lot. Or enter the forest: from Peninsula Dr turn right on Homestead Ct, left on Homestead Ln, left on Mission Ridge Circle. Pyatt Lake Nature Thousands of years ago, Pyatt Lake was part of Grand Traverse Bay. 20 minutes from Traverse City on Old Mission Peninsula. Take Peninsula Dr. north approximately 10 miles. Just past Bowers Harbor Marina, turn left on Neahtawanta Rd. Follow Neahtawanta Rd. 1/2 mile to Pyatt Rd. Turn right on Pyatt Rd. The parking area is 1/4 mile down Pyatt Rd. Bring the bug spray in summer and a sled for tots in winter. George and Ada Reffitt Nature Preserve A natural getaway right in the middle of Traverse City! There is a 1.7 mile loop trail and boardwalk around the preserve. From Munson Ave (US 31 N), turn south on Three Mile Rd. Turn right on Parsons Rd. (at the light) and park immediately on the left (next to the TART trail). The Reffitt Nature Preserve trail starts immediately south of the railroad tracks on the left (east) side of Three Mile Rd.
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Grand Traverse County Parks & Recreation Dept www.co.grand-traverse.mi.us 922-4818 Medalie Roadside Park A 15 acre park on the south side of Boardman Lake featuring a picnic shelter, restrooms, paved walking path, 3 overlooks/fishing platforms, and a canoe launch. 1910 W South Airport Rd Traverse City, MI Twin Lakes Park Enjoy fishing, swimming, canoeing and hiking near the crystal clear spring water of North Twin Lake. NEW universally accessible playground is now a feature of this property. 6800 N Long Lake Rd, 8 miles west of Traverse City. Vasa Pathway 21 miles of loops and paths can be enjoyed in all seasons. Walking, biking, and cross country skiing. Bunker Hiill & Bartlett Roads Traverse City 49686 The Leelanau Conservancy www.theconservancy.com 256-9665 DeYoung Natural Area From the intersection of M-72 and M-22 in Traverse City (Tom’s West Bay) go north on M-22 1.2 miles, turn left onto Cherry Bend Rd. Go 2.0 miles down Cherry Bend Rd., and look for the barn on your right. Pull into the parking area by the barn. Chippewa Run Natural Area From the intersection of M-72 and M-22 in Empire, head north on M-22 about 7/10 of a mile. The parking area is located on the left, or northwest side of the street just south of the creek.
Houdek Dunes Natural Area (Note: Gentle terrain, but steep steps lead to trailhead.) From Leland, drive north along M-22 approximately 5 miles to County Road 626. Proceed another ¾ mile north along M-22. A sign on the west (left) side of the road marks the entrance to the parking area. Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Lakeshore www.nps.gov/SLBE 334-8499 Entry into all areas of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakesore requires the purchase of a pass. Per vehicle: $10.00 valid for 7 days or $20 valid for 1 year.
North Bar Lake is the #1 favorite swimming spot of The Moms Club of the Traverse Bay Area playgroups. Shallow & warm. Perfect for tots!
North Bar Lake From Empire go north on LaCore Street. Turn right on Voice Road and then left on Bar Lake Road, which is gravel. The Dune Climb Climb the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes! From Empire go north on M-22 , take M-109 to The Dune Climb.
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TART Trails Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails, Inc. www.traversetrails.org 941-4300 Boardman Lake Trail 2 mile paved wooded trail along the north and east side of Boardman Lake. Access the trail from behind the Traverse Area District Library at 610 Woodmere Ave, Traverse City or from Oryana Food Coop at 610 E 10th St. TART Paved urban trail could be referred to as “the boardwalk”. It begins at Bates Rd in Acme and ends at M-22/M-72 intersection in west Traverse City. Strollers, bikes, skates, and just plain feet travel this path to enjoy the lakeside.
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Beaches
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The Traverse Bay Area beaches are the reason many families choose to make this area their home. The beaches host a warm season full of free recreation for the entire family. Parents who keep a bottle of sun block, a bucket, and a shovel in the car have an all access pass to summer fun in the sun. Thank you to the Traverse City Convention & Visitor’s Bureau for providing this descriptive list of the Traverse Bay Area beaches. 872-8377 www.visittraversecity.com
Acme Township Park Four miles north of Acme off US 31 North, 12 miles east of Traverse City Alden Depot Park & Museum On the east shore of beautiful Torch Lake is the village of Alden, whose restored 1908 train depot features photographs and memorabilia from the community's past as a railroad and resort area. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day 10670 Coy, Alden Antrim County Park (Barnes Park) On East Grand Traverse Bay, this park features a sandy beach, hiking trails, a playground, restroom facilities, and covered picnic facilities. Day use is free. It's west of US 31 and M 88 in Torch Lake Township. Bellaire Arbutus Lake A shallow, spring-fed lake, Arbutus Lake is 30 minutes south of Traverse City, off Garfield Road and has a nice playground near the beach. Traverse City
Bayside Park The combination of 600 feet of sandy beach with the bathhouse and the picnic and playground areas make Bayside Park not only lovely but also fully equipped for beach goers to stay the whole day. The water is shallow a long way out with a sandy bottom, perfect for wading. It's on East Grand Traverse Bay off US 31 North, just south of the M 72 junction in Acme and eight miles from Traverse City. Acme Bowers Harbor Beach Tucked into protected Bowers Harbor on Old Mission Peninsula, this beach offers picnic facilities as well as a nearby boat launch with restrooms. Bowers Harbor Beach looks out West Grand Traverse Bay at Power Island. It is 15 miles north of Traverse City on Peninsula Drive. Traverse City Centerville Township Park This beach on Lake Leelanau is off Highway 643 south of the Village of Lake Leelanau. It has picnic facilities, a playground, and restrooms. Lake Leelanau
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Bryant Park Picnic area, a playground, restrooms, charcoal grills, tall pines, a long stretch of sandy beach, and lifeguards (mid-June -- August) make this a popular spot near downtown Traverse City off M 37. Often you'll find excellent sunset views overlooking West Grand Traverse Bay, bright sun and cool shade. It is located where Garfield and Front Streets intersect at the base of Old Mission Peninsula. Traverse City Central Lake Municipal Park (Thurston Park) In the village of Central Lake you will find a picnic area next to a beach, and a boat launch on Intermediate Lake. It is off M 88 in Antrim County. Central Lake Clinch Park The area's most populated if not it's most popular beach features over 1500 feet of sand along West Grand Traverse Bay in downtown Traverse City. Clinch Park has picnic tables, lifeguards (mid-June -- August) and restrooms. It is adjacent to Clinch Park Marina, east of Union Street on Grandview Parkway. Traverse City Custer Township Park On Lake of the Woods, five miles west of Mancelona off M 88, there's a beach and boat launch that is part of Custer Township Park. Mancelona East Bay Park This beach is popular with young families. It has shady picnic areas, shallow water with a gradual slope, lifeguards, a playground and restrooms. Find it at the base of East Grand Traverse Bay and the foot of Front Street. Traverse City Elk Rapids County Day Park A 13-acre park with a large beach, a bathhouse, restrooms and playground; this beach park also features a picnic area, nature trails, and tennis and
basketball courts. It's just outside of Elk Rapids on south Bayshore Drive. Elk Rapids Elk Rapids Dam Fishing Park Sandy beach and privies adjacent to the Elk Rapids Dam off Dexter Road. It borders East Grand Traverse Bay. Elk Rapids Elmwood Township Park This beach, with a playground, picnic facilities and restrooms, is located on West Bay, off M 22, one mile north of the M 72 junction in Traverse City. Traverse City Empire Village Park This beach at the foot of Niagara Street in Empire has views of the stunning Empire Bluffs, part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is located 22 miles west of Traverse City on M 22. Restrooms, picnic facilities. Empire Esch Road Beach Twenty miles west of Traverse City and 12 miles south of the Village of Empire, Esch Road Beach looks out on the impressive aqua and deep blue waters of Lake Michigan's Platte Bay. Picnic facilities. Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore or National Park pass required. Empire Forest Home Township Park A lovely beach on Torch Lake is the park's main attraction, its jewel. Other of its valuable features include picnic facilities, restrooms, a playground, tennis and basketball courts in the Village of Bellaire. Bellaire Gilbert Park You'll find a sandy beach, picnic tables and privies on Long Lake in Gilbert Park. It is located eight miles west of Traverse City on North Long Lake Road (Front Street). Traverse City
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Glen Arbor Municipal Beach Thirty miles northwest of Traverse City in the town of Glen Arbor, off M 22, the municipal beach has picnic facilities, restrooms, and a playground. Glen Arbor Glen Haven Beach Thirty miles northwest of Traverse City, near Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore Dunes Climb, there is a quiet, beautiful and almost private Lake Michigan beach in historic Glen Haven, a deserted village. Glen Arbor Glen Lake Beach Located on M 22 across from Sleeping Bear Dunes Climb on Little Glen Lake, Glen Lake Beach is approximately 30 miles from Traverse City and has restrooms and picnic facilities. Empire Haserot Beach Park Just east of the town of Old Mission and 20 miles north of Traverse City on Old Mission Peninsula lies Haserot Beach Park. It boasts a variety of features -- a sandy beach on a protected bay of Lake Michigan, restrooms, picnic facilities, playground, and boat launch. Traverse City Interlochen State Park This beach on Duck Lake is only 14 miles southwest of Traverse City in the Village of Interlochen and has picnic facilities, a playground and restrooms. Interlochen Leelanau State Park This Lake Michigan beach is at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula in the Village of Northport. It's 30 miles north of Traverse City on M 22. Besides the beach, it has restrooms, hiking trails and historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse, which is open to the public. Northport
Leland Municipal Beach Twenty-four miles northwest of Traverse City off M 22 in the Village of Leland, this town beach looks out on Lake Michigan. There's a marina nearby, as well as restrooms, and picnic facilities. Leland Long Lake Township Park Picnic facilities, restrooms, playground, boat launch and warmish (mid-summer), crystalline water makes this beach popular. It is on Long Lake just off Highway 610 southwest of Traverse City. Traverse City Northport Beach This park has a beach area with playground and restrooms. It is adjacent to the marina at the foot of Nagonaba Street in Northport, which is 26 miles north of Traverse City on M 22. Northport Old Mission Lighthouse Park At the end of M 37, on the tip of Old Mission Peninsula, is a large, wide beach area with extremely shallow water, a picnic area, a reconstruction of an early settler's cabin and privies. It is an ideal spot for wading. The lighthouse there is not open to the public. Beach sites are accessible along the final mile of M 37 until the road ends at the park. To reach this park, take M 37 to the end of Old Mission Peninsula. At this point you are about 22 miles from Front Street in Traverse City. Old Mission Old Settlers' Park This park, 18 miles northwest of Traverse City on the east shore of Glen Lake off Highway 675, has restrooms, a playground and picnic facilities. Empire
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Peterson Park On Lake Michigan in Northport, 26 miles north of Traverse City on M 22, Peterson Park's rock-strewn beach is an excellent spot for finding Petoskey stones. Northport Power Island Accessible only by boat, this beach on West Grand Traverse Bay's Power Island, off Bower's Harbor on Old Mission Peninsula, features picnic facilities, restrooms and hiking trails. Traverse City Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore This park contains numerous spectacular beaches on its 33 miles of protected Lake Michigan shoreline, including D.H. Day Park in Glen Haven, north Bar Lake, Good Harbor Bay and Manitou Island. Stop at the Philip Hart Visitor Center at the junction of M 72 and M 22 in Empire for directions. The Philip Hart Visitor Center is located 22 miles west of Traverse City. Many trails are located within the 70,000-acre federally owned park. Maps are available at the visitor center in Empire. Park fee is $10 for seven days or $20 for a year paid at the visitor center. More information on Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. 9922 Front Street, Empire (231) 326-5134 Suttons Bay Municipal Beach On the west arm of Grand Traverse Bay, 15 miles north of Traverse City on M 22 in the Village of Suttons Bay, the Suttons Bay Municipal Beach is a fun spot at a beautiful location. It has a beach, picnic facilities, playground and restrooms. Suttons Bay Tony Gilroy Township Park On US 31 in Acme, the Tony Gilroy Township Park has picnic tables and a sandy beach on East Grand Traverse Bay. Acme
Traverse City State Park This popular beach offers 700 feet of sandy beach on East Bay. Beach goers enjoy the bathhouse, the picnic area and ample parking. It is located across the street from the Traverse City State Park campgrounds on US 31 North in Traverse City. Traverse City West End Beach Large, bay-front park and beach features ample parking and restrooms. You will find it overlooking West Grand Traverse Bay at the foot of Division Street, on Grandview Parkway, just west of downtown Traverse City. Traverse City Whitewater Township Park At this beach there are picnic areas, playground, boat launch, restrooms on Elk Lake east of Highway 685 north of Williamsburg. Thank you to the Traverse City Convention & Visitor’s Bureau for providing these descriptions of the Traverse Bay Area Beaches.
Traverse City Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
872-8377 www.visittraversecity.com
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Water Parks For Tots Too
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Great Wolf Lodge Indoor water park available to guests of the Great Wolf Lodge. Many local families will book a one-weekend staycation at this local resort and enjoy the unique amenities that include a water park suitable for toddlers through adults, story time, clock tower show, and Cub Club. 3575 N US 31 S Traverse City 941-3600 www.greatwolf.com
Park At Water’s Edge One-acre, outdoor water playground for toddlers through adults. Features include bubbling and spouting water, pipe falls, tumble pail, water cannon, sand play area, hot tub, water slides. Daily admission and memberships available. Crystal Mountain Resort 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr Thompsonville 49683 968-7686 www.crystalmountain.com
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Camping
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Seeing the wonder in a child’s face when experiencing nature gives us new eyes through which to see our world. Children notice and appreciate small details that we sometimes take for granted. They can teach us a renewed appreciation of simply being outside, in the quiet of natural spaces, observing nature and moving slowly. Camping is a blast and can be an inexpensive family getaway. However, sometimes with small children, it is nice to have the option to run home for emergency supplies or just plain go home to sleep. Traverse Bay Area campgrounds enable families to enjoy roughing it while still close to home… just in case.
Betsie River Canoes & Campground 13598 Lindy Rd Thompsonville 49683 879-3850 Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha 1350 E Arbutus Lake Rd Traverse City 49686 946-8589 Everflowing Waters Campground 5481 Brackett Rd Traverse City 938-0933 Grass Lake State Forest Campground 10 miles NE of Thompsonville via County Rd 669 & Wallin Rd 922-5280 Holiday Park Campground 4860 US Highway 31S Traverse City 49684 943-4410
Honcho Rest Campground 8988 Calm Highway Elk Rapids 49629 264-8548 Interlochen State Park M-137 Interlochen 49643 26-9511 Lake Ann State Forest Campground 2 mi SW of Lake Ann via Almira Rd & Reynolds Rd 922-5280 Leelanau Pines Campground 6500 E Leelanau Pines Dr Cedar 49621 228-5742 Leelanau State Park 15310 N Lighthouse Point Rd Northport 49670 386-5422
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Northern Exposure Campground/RV & Recreation Park 285 Manistee Rd Mesick 49668 563-7425 Northern Pines Campground 5945 Yuba Park Rd Williamsburg 938-2280 Platte River State Forest Campground 2.5 Mi SE of Honor via US-31 & Goose Rd 922-5280 Ranch Rudolf 6841 Brown Bridge Rd Traverse City 49686 947-9529 Scheck’s Place State Forest Campground 12 mi SW of Williamsburg via Williamsburg Rd, Supply Rd & Brown Bridge Rd 922-5280 Timber Ridge Resort 4050 Hammond Rd Traverse City 49686 947-2770, (800)909-2327 Traverse City KOA 9700 S M37 Buckley 49620 269-3203, (800) 249-3203 Traverse City State Park 1132 US 31 N Traverse City 49686 922-5270 Veterans Memorial State Forest Campground 3.5 mi East of Honor via US-31 922-5280
Wild Cherry Resort 8563 E Horn Rd Lake Leelanau 49653 271-5550
Carry a small baggie of unseasoned powdered
meat tenderizer in your pack. Mix 1 part meat tenderizer with 4 parts water to instantly neutralize the sting of insect bites. This is a lightweight, natural, and effective remedy to keep handy.
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Gear For Tots
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ICE SKATING Public Ice Rinks No charge for use. Weather permitting, open early-January to early-March. Warming house hours: Monday-Friday 3pm-9pm Saturday 12pm-9pm Sunday 12pm-8pm 14th & Pine Streets Thirlby Field Traverse City State Street between Railroad & Hope F&M Park (no warming house) Traverse City Rose St Near Carver Traverse Heights Elementary Traverse City Centre ICE 1600 Chartwell Dr Traverse City 49686 933-7465 www.centreice.org Howe Ice Arena 1125 W Civic Center Dr Traverse City 49686 922-4830 SKATING INSTRUCTION Centre ICE (see above) Howe Arena (see above) Twin Bays Skating Club 947-2267 www.twinbays.org
SKI & SNOWBOARD INSTRUCTION Crystal Mountain Resort Childcare available as well. 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr Thompsonville 49683 378-2000 www.crystalmountain.com Grand Traverse Ski Club Ski instruction starting at age 4. Based at Hickory Hills ski slope. 499-8574 www.gtskiclub.org Hickory Hills Owned and operated by City of Traverse City. Tow rope. 2000 Randolph Traverse City 947-8566 Mt. Holiday 3100 Holiday Rd Traverse City 49686 www.mt-holiday.com Timber Ridge Resort & VASA Ski Club & North American VASA “WeSki” cross country ski instruction for preschoolers to adults. Call for scheduled date. 4050 Hammond Rd. Traverse City 49686 947-2770 www.vasa.org, www.vasaskiclub.com SNOW TUBING Timberlee Hills Snow Tubing 10484 S Timberlee Dr Traverse City 49684 668-9459 www.timberleehills.com
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GEAR Boyne Country Sports “Junior Has A Fit Guarantee” Receive 100% of purchase price toward next year’s ski/ snowboard equipment. $30 membership fee and other rules apply. 101 E Front St Traverse City 49684 941-1999 www.boynecountrysports.com Don Orr Ski ‘n Beach Haus Receive 50% of purchase price of child ski boots toward next year’s purchase. Restrictions apply, call for details. The only shop in town carrying very smallest size ski boots this 2010 ski season. US-31 N at 3 Mile Rd Traverse City 49686 946-8810 www.donorrskihaus.com Grand Traverse Ski Club Used Equipment Sale Annual sale in late fall. Buy and sell used winter sports equipment. 499-8574 www.gtskiclub.org MC Sports New equipment. 3450 S Airport Rd W Traverse City 49684 933-6158 www.mcsports.com Play It Again Sports New and used equipment. 1251 S Airport Rd W Traverse City 49686 929-1870 www.playitagainsports.com
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[email protected] phone: (231)946-8636
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Support Organizat ions
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Who’s your favorite pediatrician? How do you make homemade baby food? How are you liking the new preschool? Let’s get together and talk. Having a young child can feel like starting a new job without receiving a training manual. We rely on our support systems, family and friends, to help us navigate this brave new world. Joining a support group such as a moms club or playgroup can enhance your support network and introduce you to new friends with whom to share experiences of parenthood. At times of crisis you may also need some specialized assistance from trained professionals. This is a list of the vast array of local support resources available to parents in our community.
MOMS CLUBS
The Moms Club of the Traverse Bay Area For fun and support of local moms. If you are expecting a child or have children…all moms are welcome! Member benefits include: playgroups, free educational speakers, nights out, family events, crochet & knitting group, book club, babysitter list, local shopping discounts, calendar of free & cheap local family events, free admission to public events organized by the club, a very active member base … more! (888) 809-5012 [email protected] www.themomsclub.net M.O.P.S. Traverse City Mothers of Preschoolers Trinity Lutheran Church 1003 S Maple St Traverse City 49684 Jennifer Booth 313-0117 [email protected]
Cherry Home Orchards is a family run company where the health and joy of children is a main priority for us to create a top quality product. The Mitchell family would also like to say, “Thank You” to The Moms Club of the Traverse Bay Area and all of the hard work Angeline Piotrowski has put in to create a network for Moms. The wide offerings of Playgroups, Mom’s Nights Out and Informational Meetings is an amazing resource for families with young children and also to add a little sanity to all the hard working Moms.
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MOMS CLUBS (CONT.) Mothers In Christ Christ the King Catholic Church 3801 Shore Rd, Acme 938-7179 [email protected] Single Mom Ministry 649-3799 www.singlemomm.org United Methodist Church Moms Group Traverse Bay United Methodist Church 1200 Ramsdell Rd Traverse City 946-2471 PARENTING PUBLICATIONS Families First Monthly On news stands in print. PO Box 443 Suttons Bay 49682 271-0222, 499-1454 www.familiesfirstmonthly.com Laura Lee Kalchik Publisher/Editor/Sales Families First Monthly, entering it’s 11th year, is a bi-monthly publication that is distributed in 4 counties (Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie & Antrim) at over 280 locations. It is a great resource for parents and anyone who is interested in family related stories. Health, education, events, the arts, and family fun are regular features. They are always looking for story ideas and writers. Families First Monthly is advertising supported and the ad rates and issue themes are on the website. A query would be welcome at any time as there are no set hours. Kid Koncierge Online www.kidkoncierge.com
Northern Michigan Moms Online www.northernmoms.com Momstyle News Online website & weekly e-newsletter of local parent news and information including local free & cheap family events calendar. michigan.momstylenews.com Traverse Bay Tots On news stands in print & online. www.traversebaytots.com www.themomsclub.net Traverse City Kids Online www.traversecitykids.com SPECIALTY SUPPORT ADHD Parent Support Group For parents of children with ADD/ADHD 631-3833 [email protected] “Always A Parent” Program Effective co-parenting and communication between parents who are separated, divorced, or never married. Classes by Child & Family Services. 946-8975 x1027 Attachment Parenting International of Traverse City 929-4350 www.attachmentparenting.com Autism Resource Network 668-7394 www.autismresourcenetwork.org Bayside Babywearers Educating the public and parents about the benefits of babywearing. www.tcbabywearing.com
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Bethany Christian Services Unplanned pregnancy counseling, individual/marital/family counseling, adoptions services, foster care. 3886 Cass Rd. Traverse City 49684 995-0870 www.bethany.org/traverse BirthNETWORK Free mother-to-mother and information to make informed choices for safe, satisfying childbirth. 941-2308 Breastfeeding Connections Mercy Hospital Cadillac 779-9480 Breastfeeding Support Munson Community Health Center 935-8200 Children’s Art Therapy Group Munson Medical Center 935-8492 Compassionate Friends (Loss of Child) Support for parents grieving the loss of a child. Munson Community Health Center 946-5462 Divorce Care First Congregational Church 6105 Center Rd Traverse City 49686 947-6698 Doula Teen Parent Program Support to young parents and their children. Volunteer mentors, labor & delivery support, baby pantry, empowerment groups, newsletter, advocacy, 24-hour crisis line. Women’s Resource Center 720 S Elmwood, Ste 2 Traverse City 49684 941-1210 www.womensresourcecenter.org Families In Touch Mommy & Me for toddler to preschool age children and parents. Munson Community Health Center 935-8200
Gluten Free Support Group Central United Methodist Church 947-8324 Healing The Heart Support for women who have placed a child for adoption. Pregnancy & Resource Center 418 Wakazoo St, Petoskey 439-3935 La Leche League Breastfeeding support for mothers and mothers-to-be. 935-3077 www.lllusa.org/web/TraverseCityMI .html MIFamilies Providing Michigan parents and caregivers with resources and referrals for assistance programs, childcare, tutoring, family fun, provider trainings and more. 342-3847 [email protected] www.mifamilies.com Our Special Kids A virtual community for parents of special needs children. Features local parent groups. www.OurSpecialKids.com Playgroup at Salvation Army Mothers and preschoolers invited to play and socialize weekly. 946-4644 Postpartum Depression Support Group Support during postpartum recovery. Munson Community Health Center 218-6664 Post Abortion Healing Helps people affected emotionally and spiritually by abortion. 378-4962 [email protected] Post Abortion Support & Bible Study Pregnancy Resource Center in Cadillac 775-1545
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RTS Bereavement Services Helps families cope with the loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, extopic pregnancy, and neonatal death. Warmline & Support Group. 935-7412 T.E.A.C.H. Homeschool Support Christ-centered home school support group. Includes co-op classes, events & outings. 933-0822 www.teach-tc.org [email protected] T.O.P.S. Weight-loss Support Take Pounds Off Sensibly Support meetings open to men, women and youth ages 7+. 256-9789 Women’s Resource Center Anger management classes, emergency shelter, housing assistance, Doula Teen Program. Referrals for finances, counseling, legal, substance abuse, housing and other needs. 720 S Elmwood, Ste 2 Traverse City 49684 941-1210 www.womensresourcecenter.org CRISIS SUPPORT Third Level Crisis Center Provides crisis counseling, problem assistance, information and referrals. Available 24 hours, everyday. 1022 East Front St Traverse City 49686 922-4800, 800-442-7315 www.thirdlevel.org Statewide Parent Helpline 24 hours, 7 days a week. (800) 942-HELP
Women’s Resource Center Anger management classes, emergency shelter, housing assistance, Doula Teen Program. Referrals for finances, counseling, legal, substance abuse, housing and other needs. 720 S Elmwood, Ste 2 Traverse City 49684 941-1210 www.womensresourcecenter.org A.W.A.R.E. A Women’s Anger Reduction & Empowerment Program Through Women’s Resource Center 941-1210 M.E.N.S. Men Exploring Non-Violent Solutions Program Through Women’s Resource Center 941-1210
Goodwill Inn Emergency shelter and access to donated food to homeless men and women. 2943 Keystone Rd Traverse City 231-922-4890
FREE EXERCISE Free Exercise Classes Free workout sessions. Participation limited. Call to reserve. 267-9198 Multi-Purpose Room Mill Creek School 9039 Old M-72 Williamsburg 49690
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PARENT EDUCATION “Always A Parent” Program Effective co-parenting and communication between parents who are separated, divorced, or never married. Classes by Child & Family Services. 946-8975 x1027 Becoming A Love & Logic Parent Parent training program designed by the Love & Logic Institute. 6-7 week non-religious classes. $12/person or $20/couple for the entire course. Free childcare provided. Offered through Central United Methodist Church 222 Cass St Traverse City 946-5191 www.tccentralumnorg www.loveandlogic.com CPR & First Aid Classes American Heart Association instructor Sherry Sabotka, EMT-P will teach classes in your place of business, school, daycare or home. 409-7613 Family Wisdom Conference Annual one-day conference focusing on alternative choices in health care, parenting, and pregnancy. www.familywisdom.org FUNctioning FAMilies Through home visits with parents, helps parents address children’s behavior, interact with team builders, learn positive parenting, build routines & schedules, help find resources, and use family strengths. Group classes available. Contact Christi Morgan 342-3847 Mommy Brain Playdate Monthly educational speakers coordinated by The Moms Club of the Traverse Bay Area. Free child supervision is usually available. www.themomsclub.net
MSU Extension Various parenting education opportunities. 922-4824 Munson Prenatal & Newborn Community Education Childbirth education, breastfeeding support, neonatal emergency services and more. 935-8200, (800) 4-MUNSON Northern Michigan Psychiatric Services February 16, 2010 Depression & Bipolar Disorder in Children & Adolescents March 9, 2010 Autism Spectrum Disorders in Children & Adolescents April 20, 2010 Working Memory Training in Children & Adolescents 6:30 to 8:00 pm Traverse City Central High Library Media Center 1150 Milliken Dr, Traverse City 935-0355 Free and open to the public. Prenatal & Newborn Community Education Various classes offered by Munson Healthcare. 775-1545 Way To Grow – TCAPS Home visits and advisory staff. 933-1780 www.tcaps.net Way To Grow – TBAISD Home visits and parent meetings. 922-6437 [email protected] www.tbaisd.k12.mi.us migreatparents.org
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BASIC NEEDS Angel Food Ministries Helps people save money on groceries by providing preordered food for pick-up once monthly. 508 W 14th St, Traverse City 49684 946-2090 Baby Pantry Diapers, wipes, lotions, cereal, food, clothing, toys and bottles for children ages 0 to 3. You only need show proof of residency in your county. Grand Traverse Baby Pantry 2nd and 4th Tuesdays 11:00 am to 4:00 pm 1144 Boon St Traverse City Free childcare available. Tri-County Baby Pantry Serves N. Benzie, SE Leelanau, & W Grand Traverse 2nd Saturdays 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Advent Lutheran Church 19631 Maple St Lake Ann 275-8031 Leelanau Baby Pantry 1st and 3rd Mondays 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm 2nd and 4th Mondays 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Immanuel Lutheran’s Annex 213 Lincoln St Suttons Bay 632-2643, 271-3671 Laundry Project Assists vulnerable families in obtaining clean clothing and bedding for work, school, and home. No fee, donations accepted. Grand Traverse 929-0174 Leelanau 929-0153, 256-0222
Students In Transition Empowerment Program Provides supportive education-related services to eligible students, Pre-K to 12, who have lost permanent housing due to foreclosure, eviction, or reasons related to economic hardship. 933-8991 www.tcaps.net/step
W.I.C. Women Infants & Children Food and nutrition vouchers for pregnant and post partum women, infants and children under 5 years. 2325 Garfield Road N, Traverse City 922-2720, (800) 946-4599 Women’s Resource Center Anger management classes, emergency shelter, housing assistance, Doula Teen Program. Referrals for finances, counseling, legal, substance abuse, housing and other needs. 720 S Elmwood, Ste 2 Traverse City 49684 941-1210 www.womensresourcecenter.org
52 Health and
Social Services
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PRENATAL & PEDIATRIC HEALTH Bayside Docs Urgent Care 401 Munson Ave Traverse City 933-9150 Munson Urgent Care 550 Munson Ave Traverse City 49686 935-8686 Community Health Clinic Free care sponsored by Blue Cross/Blue Shield 3147 Logan Valley Road Traverse City 49684 935-0668 Grand Traverse Children’s Clinic 3537 W Front St, Ste G Traverse City 49684 935-8822 Healthy Kids Program Health care coverage and support services for qualifying pregnant women, babies & children under 19 years. (888) 988-6300 Healthy Futures A free service to pregnant women and families with small children. A registered nurse provides moms personal support through phone calls and/or visits. Provides health information about immunizations, safety & nutrition. 935-5640, (888) 403-8468 Kids Creek Children’s Clinic 4025 N Royal Dr Traverse City 49684 935-0555
Northern Michigan Medicine & Pediatrics Meg Meeker, pediatrician & author of Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters, Boys Should Be Boys, Your Kids At Risk 3643 W Front St, Ste C Traverse City 49684 935-0614 MIChild Health Care MIChild is a health insurance program for uninsured children of Michigan's working families. (888) 988-6300 Munson Prenatal & Newborn Community Education Childbirth education, breastfeeding support, neonatal emergency services and more. 935-8200, (800)4-MUNSON
835-8822
3537 W FRONT STREET, SUITE G TRAVERSE CITY, MI 49684
HERBERT A. SCAER, M.D. ROBERT W. SPRUNK, M.D. DAVID S. OLSON, M.D. KIMBERLY A HEGEWALD, M.D. ANDREW D. TURSMAN, M.D. LEANN, R.N. – OFFICE MANAGER
HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES 53
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Pediatric Walk-In Immunization Clinic Free immunizations to children with limited or no insurance coverage for vaccinations. 935-6270
Traverse Health Clinic Providing free or low-cost health care to financially challenged and uninsured residents of Benzie, Grand Traverse & Leelanau Counties 3155 Logan Valley Rd Traverse City 49684 935-0412 www.traversehealthclinic.org
FAMILY PETS NEED HEALTH CARE TOO
54 HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES
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EYE CARE Excel Institute 328 1/2 Munson Ave Traverse City 49686 946-7700 [email protected] www.optometrists.org /drmarknoss Director: Mark Noss, O.D. Contact: Julie Bedore Evaluation and Treatment of developmental vision dysfunctions such as tracking & eye teaming) that interfere with good learning and daily life. All ages served. Open Monday through Friday by appointment.
Goodwill Optical Low cost eye exams and frames. 2279 S. Airport Road W Traverse City 932-1520
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Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic 929 Business Park Dr Traverse City 49686 947-6246 www.gtoc.net Daniel D. Thuente, MD Jillian Riecke, Orthoptist Pediatric eye care. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 8:00am to 5:00pm Thursday 8:00am to 6:00pm Friday 8:00pm to 4:00pm PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Dental Clinics North 2325 Garfield Road North Traverse City 49686 932-7316 Northern Michigan Pediatric Dentistry 4944 Skyview Ct Traverse City 49684 947-4566 Dr. Stephen Morgan, PC 1117 W Civic Ctr Dr Traverse City 941-1130 Traverse Health Clinic Sponsors “Give Kids A Smile! Children’s Dental Access Program” Call for information 935-0799 [email protected] www.traversehcc.org
56 HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES
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PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES Children’s Therapy Corner Rehabilitation and therapeutic services for children and families. 808 S Garfield Ave, Ste A Traverse City 48686 929-2354 www.childrenstherapycorner.com Northern Michigan Psychiatric Services 935-0355 Free classes 6:30-8:00pm at Traverse City Central High Library 1150 Milliken Dr, Traverse City on the following dates: February 16, 2010 “Depression & Bipolar Disorder in Children & Adolescents” March 9, 2010 “Autism Spectrum Disorders in Children & Adolescents” April 20, 2010 “ADHD & Working Memory Training in Children & Adolescents”
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PREGNANCY CARE Munson Prenatal & Newborn Community Education Childbirth education, breastfeeding support, neonatal emergency services and more. 935-8200, (800) 4-MUNSON Planned Parenthood Delivers reproductive health care, sex education, and information. 1135 E 8th St Traverse City 49686 929-1844 Pregnancy Care Center Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, diapers & wipes, maternity clothes, layettes, and counseling free of charge to women facing unintended pregnancies. 121 S Garfield Ave, Ste C Traverse City 49686 929-3488 [email protected] www.pregnancycarecentertc.org ADDICTION SERVICES Addiction Treatment Services Treatment services for the healing and recovery of chemically dependent men, women and their families. Phone available 24/7 922-4810, (800) 622-4810 www.addictiontreatmentservices.org Alcoholics Anonymous 124 N Division Traverse City 49684 AA Hotline: 946-8823 946-8823 www.district11-aa.org Al-Anon & Alateen 938-7399 www.alanon-d39.org Narcotics Anonymous 223-3399 www.michigan-na.org /nw_michigan/index.htm
CHILD PROTECTION Child Abuse Reporting Statewide 24/7 (800) 942-4357 Child Locator Tip Line 24/7 (866) 729-0026 Michigan Dept. of Human Services Children's services, adoption, foster care, protective services, juvenile justice, Family Resource Centers. 701 S Elmwood St, Ste 19 Traverse City 49684 941-3900 Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center Intervention, investigation, assessment and treatment of child sexual & physical abuse in a child-sensitive, supportive, safe environment. 521 S. Union Street Traverse City 49684 929-4166 www.traversebaycac.org
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HOLISTIC PEDIATRICS
Holistic pediatrics empowers parents to trust their natural wisdom and make informed choices on behalf of their children. Finding information about and practitioners of a whole family wellness lifestyle can be tricky since, unlike Western pediatrics, there is no one central organization governing the various holistic practices. Below are several well regarded Alternative Medicine organizations that can provide “healthful” guidance.
American Association of Drugless Practitioners 903-843-6401 www.aadp.net American Association of Naturopathic Physicians 206-298-0126 Referral number: 206-298-0125 www.naturopathic.org American Herbalists Guild 770-751-6021 www.americanherbalistsguild.com American Holistic Health Association 714-779-6152 www.ahha.org American Holistic Medical Association 703-556-9245 www.holisticmedicine.org American Naturopathic Medical Association 702-897-7053 http://anma.net Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals 303-674-0859 www.abmp.com International Chiropractic Pediatric Association 610-565-2360 www.icpa4kids.com
National Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance 253-851-6896 www.acuall.org The National Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine 888-246-NIAM www.niam.com North American Society of Homeopaths (NASH) 206-720-7000 www.homeopathy.org The Office of Alternative Medicine (OAM) 888-644-6226 altmed.od.nih.gov
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The Great Indoors
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LIBRARIES Traverse Area District Library www.tadl.org Contact library branches directly for scheduled children’s programming which are many, even for babies! Traverse Area District Library Main Branch 610 Woodmere Ave Traverse City49686 932-8500 M-Th 9am-9pm, Fri & Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 12pm-5pm East Bay Branch Library 1989 Three Mile Rd Traverse City 49686 922-2085 Tu & Th 10am-8pm, Wed & Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-3pm Kingsley Branch Library 213 S Brownson Kingsley 49649 263-5484 Tu, Wed, Fri 9am-5pm, Th 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-3pm Fife Lake Public Library 77 Lakecrest Ln Fife Lake 49633 879-4101 Tu & Th 12pm-8pm, Wed & Fri 12pm-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm Interlochen Public Library 9700 Riley Rd Interlochen 49643 276-6767 Mon, Tu, Fri, Sat 9am-5pm, Wed & Th 9am-8pm Peninsula Community Library Old Mission Peninsula School 2735 Island View Rd Traverse City 49686 223-7700 M & Th 9am-9pm, Tu, Wed, Fri 9am-5:30pm, Sat 9am-1pm
MUSEUMS
The Grand Traverse Heritage
Center is home to an antique toy exhibit, a Native American wigwam that visitors can “live in”, and the year-end “Festival of Trains”. Festival of Trains exhibits dozens of model trains and characters that whiz, whistle, flash and go go go! Bring a small stool for the toddlers so they can see everything and push the buttons too! Almira Historical Society Blacksmith shop, 2 historic homes, boat house, equipped fire barn. 19440 Maple St 275-7362 Dennos Museum Center Large collection of Inuit art. Traveling collections. Family programs. 1701 E Front St Traverse City 49686 995-1055 www.dennosmuseum.org Eyaawing Museum & Culture Center Culture and artifacts of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians 234 N West Bayshore Dr Peshawbestown 534-7764 www.gtbindians.org Empire Area Museum Complex Seasonal Household, saloon, railroad, lumbering and blacksmith artifacts, one-room schoolhouse, 1911 fire house, and 1924 gas station. 2 blocks north of M-22 and M-72 intersection, Empire 326-5519 www.empirechamber.com/museum
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Fife Lake Museum Seasonal Artifacts, toys, clothing, photos, 1878 schoolroom, barbershop, county store. Fire Barn has 1936 fire truck and equipment. Fife Lake village corner of State and Boyd St. Fife Lake Rd 879-3342 Grand Traverse Heritage Center Artifacts & culture of Native Americans, pioneers, and special installments including the year end Festival of Trains 322 Sixth St, Traverse City 995-0313 www.gtheritagecenter.org Great Lakes Children’s Museum 13240 S West Bayshore Dr Traverse City 932-4526 info@glcmorg www.greatlakeskids.org Director: John Noonan A hands-on, interactive museum for children age 1 to 8. The Museum offers special programs and events for families throughout the year. Tuesdays at 11am feature an interactive Story Time program and Fridays at 10am feature Toddler Time program. The museum hosts schools and groups for visits and programs and also visits local pre-schools and schools for educational programs. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 1pm-5pm Open Monday 10am-5pm only when local schools are closed and from mid-June to Labor Day. $6/person over 2-years-old. Memberships and Group Rates also available.
Maritime Heritage Alliance Dockside visits of traditional boats. Call 946-2647 www.mhatc.net Music House Museum All types of music making machines. 7377 U.S. 31 North, Acme 938-9300 www.musichouse.org Mission Point Lighthouse Seasonal 1870 restored struture and the tower is open. End of Old Mission Peninsula on M-37 (Center Rd.) 218-4128 Old Mission Peninsula Historical Society Hessler Log House Dougherty Homestead Log Schoolhouse www.omphistoricalsociety.org 534-7764
Provides a broad base of basic nutrients, plus an array of advanced nutrients. Research shows it help boost energy and mental performance.
Check out our new websites: Enrichingyourlife.reliv.com
or hopeandopportunity.reliv.com
Or Phone: Janet 218-5223 Eileen 392-9661
Money Back Guarantee
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Tot Shops
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There are some very special local proprietors who maintain specialty shops for young families. Play is their business. Teenie tiny shoes and unique toys fill their spaces. They provide to families both the necessities of life and the sentimental adornments of childhood that become the essence of memories.
Sweet Pea Local owners and parents, Jeff & Michele Joubran, carry high quality baby products at budget friendly prices including designer diaper bags, clothes, strollers, cloth diapers, baby carriers, gifts and nursery décor. 205 E Front St Traverse City 49684 922-1600 www.sweetpeatc.com
Readers of Traverse Bay Tots receive 20% off any one full-price item at Sweet Pea! (See ad inside front cover)
Annie’s of Traverse City 208 E Front St, Traverse City 946-6201 Children’s Orchard Logan’s Landing 2020 S Airport Rd W Traverse City 49684 929-1700 www.childrensorchard.com The Children’s Place In Grand Traverse Mall 922-1805 www.childrensplace.com Children’s World 140 E Front St (in “the arcade”) Traverse City 946-3450 Enerdyne 223 Saint Joseph St Suttons Bay 271-6033, enerdynet.com Great Lakes Bear Factory In Grand Traverse Mall 946-3906
Green Island Earth Friendly Goods 116 S Union St, Traverse City 933-8465 www.gogreenisland.com Gymboree In Grand Traverse Mall 933-5257 www.gymboree.com Hazelnut Kids Natural Toys 807 Airport Access Rd, Ste 100 Traverse City 49686 941-1901 [email protected] www.hazelnutkids.com Horizon Books 243 E Front St Traverse City 49684 946-7290 Leland Toy Co 201 N Main St, Leland 256-7575
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Thompson Pharmacy
Carries nursing and pregnancy supplies
including Medela breast pumps, bottles and parts
& maternity support belts. 324 S Union St Traverse City 49684 947-4212 x6
Thompson Pharmacy 324 S Union St Traverse City 49684 947-4212 x6 Tiny Treasures Toy Store 5919 M-22 Glen Arbor 334-2100 Toy Harbor 221 E Front St Traverse City 946-1131 Trains & Things 210 E Front St Traverse City 947-1353 Up North Kids Shorter Winter 2009/10 hours: Saturdays 10am-5pm 137 E Front St Traverse City 350-2740 Whirlygigs 115 River Elk Rapids 264-6885
Sharkey’s Cuts For Kids 522 W 14th St Traverse City 49684 421-KIDS traversecity@sharkeyscutsfor kids.com www.sharkeyscutsforkids.com Owner: Heather Cade For all ages. Moms & Dads too! Haircuts Mini-cures Day of Beauty Up-Do’s Glamour Girl Birthday Parties Monday – Friday 10am-6pm Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday 11am-4pm Boy’s & Dad’s Cuts $15 Girl’s Cuts $20 Mom”s Cuts $25 Girls & Moms Cuts include Wash & Mini-cure More prices & services available! Offering a Punch Card Reward System. “10th Cut FREE”
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A Little Extra Help
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Child Safety Seat Inspection AAA Michigan 940 US 31 N Traverse City 49686 947-2382 Safe Kids North Shore Call for safety seat inspection dates. 922-4843 [email protected] www.michigansafekids.org Meijer Community Rewards Earn cash rewards for your K-12 school by shopping at Meijer. See store for application. (800) 962-7011
Michigan Education Savings Program A tax deferred savings plan that becomes tax-free when used to pay for beneficiary’s college expenses. Some are eligible for State Matching Grant. (800) 416-9756 www.mesp529.com Newcomers Club Welcome Service Free coupons, passes & gift certificates for families new to town. 933-4404
ONE GREAT MAGAZINE FOR ALL KINDS OF FAMILIES
FREE Bi-monthly Publication • Over 280 Locations
www.TheMomsClub.net
TABLE MANNERS FOR TOTS
1. Eat with a spoon or fork if you can.
2. Stay in your seat, not under the table.
3. Don’t overstuff your mouth.
4. If you overstuff your mouth, spit it out in a napkin instead of on the
plate.
5. Don’t say “Ew Gross!” as soon as you are served.
6. Say “Please” instead of “Gimme!”
7. Eat what you are served instead of asking for a totally different meal.
8. If you have to go to the bathroom say, “I have to go to the bathroom”
instead of shouting, “I gotta go poop!”
9. Use a napkin instead of your shirt.
10. Thank the cook for dinner. If you do, he or she might give you
DESSERT!
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Kid Friendly Dining
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Kids enjoy an active environment with their dinner. Their epicurean bent is toward restaurants with kid menus, crayons, and playgrounds (if at all possible). Parents have a slightly different selection criteria which often rests on discounts. This list includes a little of something to please both groups. Note: Please call ahead to verify that discount offers are still being honored on the date of your visit. Make sure to remind your server of discounts before the bill is calculated.
DISCOUNTS FOR KIDS Blue Tractor Kids eat free on Sundays. 423 S Union St Traverse City 49684 922-9515 www.bluetractorcookshop.com Bubba’s Kids eat free on Mondays. 428 E Front St Traverse City 49686 995-0570 www.tcfood.com CW’s Blue Water Bistro Inside Holiday Inn Kids eat free. 615 E Front St Traverse City 49686 947-3700 Garfield’s Kids eat free on Sundays. 3200 Airport Rd 946-0300 www.garfields.net Giovanni’s Roadhouse Family Night Spaghetti Dinner $15 5pm to closing. US 31 S, Interlochen 276-6244 www.tcfood.com
Gusto! Ristorante hosts Friday Night Date Night Fridays 6pm-8pm Free babysitting in private dining room while you dine in the main dining room. Includes: free kids meals, games, activities, movies. M-22 Downtown Suttons Bay 271-6222 www.m22italiano.com Fazoli’s 99c kids meals on Tuesday nights. 2658 Crossing Circle Traverse City 941-8509 www.fazolis.com Gusto! Ristorante Call or see website for current specials. M-22 Downtown Suttons Bay 271-6222 www.m22italiano.com
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La Senorita On Sundays most items on the Kids Menu are 99¢. 2455 N US 31 S Traverse City 49684 946-4545 & 1245 S Garfield Ave Traverse City 49686 947-8820 www.lasenorita.com North Peak Brewing Company Kids eat free on Sundays upon request only. 400 W Front St Traverse City 49684 941-7325 www.northpeak.net RESTAURANT PLAYPLACES McDonald’s 933 US Hwy 31 Traverse City 49684 943-0774 Burger King – East Traverse 2504 Us 31 North Traverse City 49686 938-3600 Burger King – Chum’s Corners TODDLER ACCESSIBLE 920 Us 31 South Traverse City 49684 943-9600
THEME RESTAURANT Camp Critter Bar & Grille Indoor recreation of outdoor camping. Eat inside a camping cottage amongst the nighttime critters. Menu full of fun kid-friendly food. Inside Great Wolf Lodge 3575 N US 31 S Traverse City 941-3600 www.greatwolf.com
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First Time Homebuyers
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Buying a home does so much more than provide a basic need to the family. It creates financial wealth and reduces the family’s tax burden. The process of purchasing a home can feel complicated to first-time homebuyers. What are the required steps to making a successful loan application to qualify for a mortgage? What is the mortgage lending process? How to avoid predatory lending?
There are a number of education and counseling programs available to first-time homebuyers to help them navigate the path to homeownership, including programs that help families afford their first down payment. HOME OWNERSHIP COUNSELING Greenpath, Inc. Homebuyer Education, Money Debt Management, Postpurchase Counseling, Predatory Lending Counseling, Renters Assistance, Services for Homeless 10850 E Traverse Hwy, Ste 2280 Traverse City 49684 (888) 860-4167 www.greenpath.com Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency Homebuyer Education, Financial Management Education, Credit Repair Counseling, Home Inspection Funds, Home Maintenance Training, Predatory Lending Counseling Foreclosure Prevention Counseling, HELP Loan Counseling, HUD Referral Counseling 3963 Three Mile Rd Traverse City 49686 947-3780, (800) 632-7334 www.nmcaa.net
MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (MSHDA) Lansing (517) 373-8370 Detroit (313) 456-3540 www.michigan.gov/mshda Down Payment Assistance 0% interest, non-amortizing loan for down payment up to $7.500 with no monthly payments. Available with MSHDA’s FHA or Rural Development first mortgage. Graduate Purchase Assistance Offers reduced and fixed-rate conventional home loans to college graduates from accredited institutions, who meet MSHDA’s sales price and income limit eligibility guidelines. Loan Products MSHDA offers a variety of loan products for low to moderate-income homebuyers.
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USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT www.rurdev.usda.gov/mi Single Family Housing Program Provides homeownership opportunities to low and moderate-income rural Americans through loan and guarantee programs. Provides loan and grant funding for vital improvements to current homes. 1501 Cass St, Ste A Traverse City 49684 941-0951, (800) 944-8119 HOME BUYER TAX CREDIT The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009 has extended the tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence. It also authorized a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified repeat homebuyers. Applies to home purchases for which a binding sales contract is signed between January 1, 2009 and April 30, 2010. www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com FAMILIES WITH DISABILITIES Michigan Home Ownership Coalition Assists individuals with disabilities and their families to become homeowners. HomeChoice Mortgage is available to persons with a disability or a family with a member with a disability who lives with them. (616) 363-2140 SELF-HELP HOUSING Habitat For Humanity Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials Habitat builds houses in partnership with families in need. www.habitat.org Frankfort 399-0300 Traverse City 941-4663
VETERANS U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs www.vba.va.gov Ann Arbor (800) 827-1000 Detroit (800) 827-1000 Department of Veterans Affairs’ Loan Guaranty Program Encourages lenders to make VA loans by protecting lenders/loan holders against loss, up to the amount of guaranty, in the event of foreclosure. Satisfactory credit and repayment ability are required. VA Regional Loan Center 1240 E Ninth St Cleveland, OH 44199 www.vba.va.gov/ro/cleveland/index1.htm Specially Adapted Housing Program Veterans or servicemembers who have specific service-connected disabilities may be entitled to a grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the purpose of constructing an adapted home or modifying an existing home to meet their adaptive needs. Ann Arbor (800) 827-1000 Detroit (800) 827-1000 FORECLOSURE PREVENTION Foreclosure Prevention Pros David Crater 218-7545 [email protected] www.foreclosurepreventionpros.com
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Smart Homebuyer Tips
From the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development “Don’t Be A Victim Of Loan Fraud”
1. Before you buy a home, attend a homeownership education course offered
by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-approved, non-profit counseling agencies.
2. Interview several real estate professionals (agents), and ask for and check references before you select one to help you buy or sell a home.
3. Get information about the prices of other homes in the neighborhood. Don't be fooled into paying too much.
4. Hire a properly qualified and licensed home inspector to carefully inspect the property before you are obligated to buy. Determine whether you or the seller is going to be responsible for paying for the repairs. If you have to pay for the repairs, determine whether or not you can afford to make them.
5. Shop for a lender and compare costs. Be suspicious if anyone tries to steer you to just one lender.
6. Do NOT let anyone persuade you to make a false statement on your loan application, such as overstating your income, the source of your downpayment, failing to disclose the nature and amount of your debts, or even how long you have been employed. When you apply for a mortgage loan, every piece of information that you submit must be accurate and complete. Lying on a mortgage application is fraud and may result in criminal penalties.
7. Do NOT let anyone convince you to borrow more money than you know you can afford to repay. If you get behind on your payments, you risk losing your house and all of the money you put into your property.
8. Never sign a blank document or a document containing blanks. If information is inserted by someone else after you have signed, you may still be bound to the terms of the contract. Insert "N/A" (i.e., not applicable) or cross through any blanks.
9. Read everything carefully and ask questions. Do not sign anything that you don't understand. Before signing, have your contract and loan agreement reviewed by an attorney skilled in real estate law, consult with a trusted real estate professional or ask for help from a housing counselor with a HUD-approved agency. If you cannot afford an attorney, take your documents to the HUD-approved housing counseling agency near you to find out if they will review the documents or can refer you to an attorney who will help you for free or at low cost.
10. Be suspicious when the cost of a home improvement goes up if you don't accept the contractor's financing.
11. Be honest about your intention to occupy the house. Stating that you plan to live there when, in fact, you are not (because you intend to rent the house to someone else or fix it up and resell it) violates federal law and is a crime.
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Family Events &
Fest ivals
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DAILY FAMILY EVENTS The Moms Club of the Traverse Bay Area, in partnership with MomstyleNews.com, publishes an free ongoing online calendar of daily Free & Cheap Family Events. Any day of the week that you and your tots want to get out of the house and enjoy some affordable age-appropriate entertainment, you can forget your wallet at home and attend lots of local activities. Just consult the calendar at
www.TheMomsClub.net. You can also subscribe to a free weekly newsletter that highlights weekend events and local news items of interest to parents.
Subscribe to weekly email newsletter and calendar at www.TheMomsClub.net
ANNUAL FAMILY FESTIVALS
JANUARY 2010
Festival of Trains Model train exhibit featuring trains that go-go-go! Heritage Center, 322 Sixth St Traverse City 995-0313 www.gtheritagecenter.org Kalkaska Winterfest Kalkaska County Fairgrounds Dog sled pulling, antique snowmobiles, horse drawn rides, campfire, music, children’s crafts, hockey events, music. 258-9103 www.kalkaskawinterfest.com
FEBRUARY 2010
Cherry Capital Winter Wonderfest February 12-15, 2010 Music, Snow Sculptures, Outdoor Games & Competitions, Children’s Activities & Rides, Ice Sculptures, Fireworks, Petting Zoo Locations throughout Traverse City. www.winterwonderfest.com
Great Indoor Folk Festival February 13, 2010 A mid-winter music festival in the warmth of the indoors at the Grand Traverse Commons. Band stage, kids’ music stage, duo stage, and an open mic stage. Grand Traverse Commons, Bldg 50 Traverse City 941-1900 www.thevillagetc.com
APRIL 2010
Celebration for Young Children April 24, 2010 11:00 am to 3:00 pm Downtown & City Opera House Children’s events and activities throughout downtown locations including the City Opera House, Horizon Books, Traverse City State Bank and others. 922-2050 www.downtowntc.com
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MAY 2010
Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market (Saturdays) Opens for the season on May 8th. Every Saturday. Fresh produce, meat, flowers, baked goods and body products from local producers. Downtown Traverse City Parking Lot between Union & Cass Sts at Grandview Parkway across from Clinch Park, Traverse City 922-2050 www.downtowntc.com Empire Asparagus Festival May 15, 2010 The town comes alive with the spirit of the Asparagus. Asparagus food tent, music and an asparagus parade. Good old-fashioned hometown fun. 326-5922 www.empirechamber.com Antrim County Petoskey Stone Festival May 29, 2010 Stone hunting, stone skipping, and Petoskey Stone themed fun. Barnes Park, US-31 and M-88 Eastport 533-6265 www.petoskeystone-festival.com Northwestern Michigan College BBQ Annual event that invites alumni and the community to share in a BBQ and family activities on the NMC Campus. 995-1020 nmc.edu
JUNE 2010
Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market (Wednesdays) Opens for the season on June 1st. Every Wednesday. Fresh produce, meat, flowers, baked goods and body products from local producers. Downtown Traverse City Parking Lot between Union & Cass Sts at Grandview Parkway across from Clinch Park Traverse City 922-2050 www.downtowntc.com
JULY 2010 Cedar Polka Fest July 1 – 4th, 2010 A four-day polka celebration including parade, softball tournament, music & dancing. The town of Cedar 228-3378, 228-5562 www.leelanau.com Leland Fireworks July 3, 2010 At Dusk Leland Marina National Cherry Festival July 3 – 10th, 2010 Family activities, air show, fireworks, parades, carnival rides, concerts, and food. Downtown Traverse City www.cherryfestival.org Cherry Festival Veteran’s Fireworks Show July 4, 2010 At Dusk Over West Bay Traverse City www.cherryfestival.org
74 FAMILY EVENTS & FESTIVALS
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Inland Seas Summer Festival July 17, 2010 Music, boat tours, food, wetland walks, fish painting, and storytelling. 271-3077 www.schoolship.org Empire Anchor Day July 17, 2010 This year’s theme is Pirates. Festival with parade, games, chicken bbq dinner. 326-5618 www.empirechamber.com Friday Night Live Every Friday July 23 – August 27, 2010 Weekly block party with live music, food, and weekly themed family activities. 100 & 200 Blocks of Front Street Traverse City 922-2050 www.downtowntc.com Traverse Bay Outdoor Art Fair July 24, 2010 Displaying & selling art from over 100 artists. Children’s activities. NMC Lawn, Traverse City 941-9488 www.artcentertraversecity.com Harbor Days July 28 – 31, 2010 Games, carnival, parade, fireworks, outdoor movie, community dinner. Elk Rapids (800) 626-7328
AUGUST 2010
Sleeping Bear Dunegrass & Blues Festival August 6 – 8, 2010 Live music, crafts, food, and kids’ tent. 326-5287 www.dunegrass3.org
Port Oneida Rural & Cultural Arts Fair August 13 – 14, 2010 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Music, Native American crafts, storytelling, children’s activities, old-timey demonstrations, horse & wagon rides, antique vehicles and equipment, nature hikes. Glen Arbor 326-5134 www.leelanau.com/fair Buckley Old Engine Show August 19 – 22, 2010 Antique gas & oil engines, tractors, mills, cars, and workshops. Kids tractor pull (ages 4-7). Food, music, flea market. Free rides on steam train. Fields of Buckley www.buckleyoldengineshow.org Peshawbestown Traditional Pow Wow August 21-22, 2010 Native singers, dancers, and artists. 534-7750 www.gtbindians.org Rubber Ducky Festival August 21, 2010 Downtown Bellaire Parade, race, arts & crafts show, 2,000 duck Rubber Ducky Race. 533-6023 www.bellairechamber.org
SEPTEMBER 2010
Michigan Schooner Festival September 10 – 12, 2010 Tall Ship arrival and tours, live performances, music, food, games, “Pancakes with Pirates” breakfast. www.michiganschoonerfestival.org
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Harvest Festival & Scarecrow Extravaganza September 25, 2010 10:00am to 4:00pm Design a scarecrow. Children enter scarecrow costume contest. Broadstreet Downtown Bellaire 533-6023 www.bellairechamber.org
NOVEMBER 2010
Indoor Winter Farmers Market Opens for the season in November. Every Saturday 10:00am to 2:00pm Locally produced fall produce, dairy, meat, preserves, baked goods, and natural products. Grand Traverse Commons Mercato, Traverse City 941-1900 www.thevillagetc.com
DECEMBER 2010
Christmas at the Lighthouse Tour the lighthouse, see Santa, music, cookies & refreshments. Free admission. Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum 15500 N Lighthouse Pt Rd Northport 49670 386-7195 www.grandtraverselighthouse.com Victorian Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend Horse drawn sleigh parade featuring Santa, historic building tours, Christmas production, Festival of Trees, music, street vendors with roasted chestnuts and hot apple cider. Manistee 723-2575 www.manisteecountychamber.com
Breakfast With Santa Breakfast with Santa, face painting, crafts. Mt. Holiday Lodge 3100 Holiday Rd Traverse City 938-2500 www.mt-holiday.com Festival of Trains 2-week model train exhibit featuring trains that go-go-go! Heritage Center 322 Sixth St Traverse City 995-0313 www.gtheritagecenter.org The Moms Club of the Traverse Bay Area thanks you for picking up a copy of “Traverse Bay Tot s” . We hope it he lp s your fami ly f ind comfort and thr ive . We wish you we ll and we ’re here if you need a fr iend.
Your fr iend, Mom
76
Index of Sponsors
www.TheMomsClub.net
All About Vacation Rentals .................................................................43
Bright Beginnings Preschool & Childcare Center..........................6
Cherry Home Orchards ......................................................................44
The Children’s House...........................................................................7
Children’s Therapy Corner.................................................................56
.E4 ..............................................................................................................83
Easling Pool..............................................................................................25
Elk Rapids Schools .................................................................................8, 20
EverywhereUGO...................................................................................81
Excel Institute .........................................................................................54
Families First Monthly...........................................................................47, 64
Foreclosure Prevention Pros..............................................................84
Grand Traverse Bay YMCA................................................................9, 20, 22
Grand Traverse Children’s Clinic......................................................52
Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic............................................55
Grand Traverse Woman .....................................................................46, 82
Hazelnut Kids Natural Toys................................................................63
Holy Angels Preschool & Elementary...............................................10, 11
Kids Creek Productions.......................................................................80
KidzArt .....................................................................................................22, 23
Kindermusik ............................................................................................24
Milestone Music Studio ........................................................................24
Momstyle News .....................................................................................47
Northern Michigan Vet Hospital .......................................................53
Photography By Scarlett.......................................................................79
Reliv International..................................................................................60
Sharkey’s Cuts For Kids .......................................................................62
Sweet Pea.................................................................................................Cover, 61
Traverse City Christian Preschool ..................................................14
Traverse City Cooperative Preschool ............................................15
Traverse City Kids.................................................................................39
Trinity Lutheran School .......................................................................16
