Looking for Family Outing Ideas? Try These

Glad you clicked on our new Grab & Go Kids Planner!

We've assembled a weekly calendar of kid-friendly activities and new places to try out with children.

Each week we'll give you the info on the five best family activities or events for the week.

You're time-pressed enough, so we're happy to do the research and find the best things to do and places to go, both locally and within reasonable striking distance.

Look for the kids’ planner each Wednesday, and help us build the planner with your own suggestions and tips — just add them to the comment box. Even if you disagree with our picks, let us know. We want to hear from you!

Why Go: Can you say bilingual? This story time, or hora de cuentos, for children 3 to 6,features songs, nursery rhymes and stories in both English and Spanish.

Where/When: Friday at Plainfield Public Library. 11-11:30 a.m.

Pricing: A parent or adult caregiver must attend, library card required. Please register at 815-436-6639.

2. PANERA STORYTIME, MILK AND COOKIES (AGES 2-6)

Where/When: , next to IKEA. Thursday, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Why Go: The Fountaindale Public Library story teller is back with more stories and songs. Milk and cookies will be also served. Yum!

Pricing: Free. Call 630-685-4231 or register online.

3. OPEN CLIMBS (AGES 6 AND UP)

Where/When: . Thursdays, 5-7 p.m.

Why Go: The staff will guide you through this fun climbing experience. Drop in; first come, first serve.

Pricing: $6; w/Resident $4. Call 630-783-6510 for more information.

4. NATIVE AMERICAN GAMES (AGES 9-12)

Where/When: . Saturday, 1-3 p.m.

Why Go: Have fun creating and racing snow snakes, learning how to stalk prey and challenging yourself with the "Warrior Test". The activity will take place outside, so dress warmly. The parents are more than welcome to stay.

Pricing: $15; w/Resident ID $10. 13420A. Call (630) 739-2600 for more information.