Has the recent burst of Arctic air given a frightful pause to your family’s sense of wanderlust? Don’t fret…there are still plenty of indoor activities in Woodstock to remedy that ugly cabin fever. Here are five no-fail options to get you and the kids out of the house for a little while.
1. Story Hour at the Foxtale Book Shoppe
Parents of young children will be grateful to know that in the modern world of hand-held gaming devices and DVD players strapped on the back of car seats, there’s still a place in town that encourages kids to READ. Jackie Tenase of the Foxtale Book Shoppe (behind the gazebo in downtown) holds an engaging story hour every Monday and Saturday morning at 11 a.m. While Mondays usually consist of pre-schoolers and their moms, the Saturday stories are more geared toward older, elementary school-age children. Kids are often given the opportunity to read to the group themselves if they have the desire.
2. Youth Art Classes at Roomscapes Gallery
If you have a budding young artist in your midst (or just want to expand your child’s horizons a little), Roomscapes Gallery offers art classes in their studio for all age groups. The classes for 5-8 year olds are held on Mondays, 10:30-12:00 and Tuesdays, 3:30-5:00. For ages 9 and up, instruction is from 4:00-5:30 on Tuesday afternoons. For more information, contact Aubree Metlick ( aubree.metllick@att.net) or Roomscapes Gallery at 770-517-7404.
3. Lessons at the Dance and Music Academy of Woodstock
Voted best dance studio in Woodstock in 2009, the Dance and Music Academy of Woodstock offers a multitude of classes to teach the importance of music and movement as a part of a healthy lifestyle. For the younger crowd, their “Mommy and Me” sessions include Bee Bop Buddies and Butterfly Ballet. These programs are perfect opportunities to not only spend quality time with your babies, but also to promote the cognitive, emotional, and social development that music and dance provide. For the older kids, a variety of dance (tap, ballet, jazz, etc.) and music lessons (guitar, piano, voice, bass, violin, flute, etc.) abound in nurturning programs that pride themselves on small class sizes, affordable pricing, and a non-competitive environment. For more information, email them at info@woodstockdance.com or call 770-924-1661.
4. Attend (or AUDITION for) a Production at the Towne Lake Arts Center
Have you ever wished that you could channel your teenager’s drama into something a little more productive? The Towne Lake Arts Center holds open auditons for their productions and offers drama classes and camps for children ages 5-12, for teens, and adults. For more information or tickets, call 678-494-4251.
5. Offer a Helping Hand
It’s never too early (or too late) to instill your kids with compassion for others. Whether gathering canned goods for a local food bank, taking blankets a women’s shelter, or simply visiting a senior who would love to chat, your children will only benefit from witnessing their parents reaching out to neighbors in need. Take note: A day spent with you while you’re doing good for others is a legacy that your children will embrace for a lifetime. For local volunteer opportunities or a list of currently needed items, visit Cherokee County Senior Services, MUST Ministries, and Papa’s Pantry, just to name a few.
