What are your plans for the weekend? There are a lot of interesting activities planned in the Little Rock area, and the forecast looks sunny and warm, so there is no excuse to stay indoors! Get out there and enjoy this beautiful Arkansas springtime! I’ve looked through the Savvy Kids Calendar of Events and my daughter and I have planned out our weekend.

First up for us is the “Take Out the Trash” event at the Heifer Village. Beginning at 10 a.m. and running until 3 p.m., this day of learning and play will help families understand what happens to their clothes, toys, food, and garbage after they’re thrown away. Heifer Village is always a good bet to keep socially conscious youngsters busy as they become aware of how our habits impact the lives of people all over the world. Activities will include worm-bin creation, mapping where trash goes once it leaves our homes, and there will be some “special guests” from Heifer Ranch available for photo opportunities. All activities are free! (www.heifer.org or 501-907-2852)

While we’re in the downtown area, we’ll be sure to check out the Territorial Fair at the Historic Arkansas Museum, 200 E. Third Street. The focus of this year’s activities is “Back Home in the Civil War.” This super-fun event will have lots of hands-on activities for kids, including dancing at the May Pole, making fruit leather, assembling a Civil War care package, jumping off of hay bales and so much more! The fun starts at 10 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. The fair is free to attend, and Lindsey’s BBQ will be selling their famous barbecue sandwiches and fried pies. (historicarkansas.org or 501-324 – 9351) 

May 7 is National Astronomy Day and to celebrate, Pinnacle Mountain State Park will have programs for all ages beginning at 2 p.m. in the Visitor’s Center. There will be indoor and outdoor activities, solar viewing, and if the weather permits – from 9 – 10 p.m. there will be telescopes to view the night sky. My daughter Cassidy is always up for a climb to the top of Pinnacle, so we’ll be heading out there in the late afternoon to get some exercise and learn a thing or two about astronomy while we’re at it. Our late night viewing of the super moon earlier this year has piqued her interest in the stars and planets. Like any mother, I do my best to encourage her when she feels drawn toward a particular subject (especially when it’s one that will ensure her a possible career path in the sciences). (arkansasstateparks.com or 501-868-5806) 

Sure hope to see ya’ll out there!