Book it!

When I was younger, my sister and I participated in the Book it! program through our local library. Call me nerdy, but there was nothing greater than finally earning enough points to get my personal pan pizza from Pizza Hut. Well that feeling of success and pure excitement leads me to today's post. Summer reading isn't just about homework- it can be about much more.

Libraries, book stores and organizations across the country have created summer programs designed to encourage reading in students of all ages. Local libraries host summer reading competitions, live story hours for the little ones and even Nintendo Wii parties. At the Live Oak Public Libraries in Savannah, GA, the Summer Reading Splash has officially begun! Kids ages three and up can take part in hands on art projects and games inspired by books. A teen schedule of events is also available including Twilight Trivia- get your Edward fix at the library!

Not only can you read for fun, but you can read to break a world record! Scholastic Books is sponsoring a challenge for kids everywhere! The more you read, the more minutes you log and the closer they are to breaking the world record! Check here to see if your school is registered!

Finally, Barnes and Noble bookstores are doing their part to encourage reading by offering FREE prizes for kids. You can download a passport on their website and keep track of books read. Once you hit 8, you get to pick out a free book!

This summer when the going gets hot and humid, the hot and humid head into the AC and start reading! Those summer reading lists will get shorter by the day! Summer was always the time when my Dad would let me and my sisters stay up a little later to hear one more chapter. Happy reading!

Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, OH

Are you intimidated by the term "contemporary art?' If you are anything like my family, then you may be nodding your head right now. The Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland has made it their mission to introduce you and your family to the world of contemporary art. In an effort to engage guests of all ages, MOCA Cleveland has a variety of programs designed to begin a dialogue about modern art and what makes art to begin with.

During your visit, you can pick an Artypack filled with thought provoking questions, gallery games and activities to help fuel dialogue about the exhibitions. MOCA Cleveland is so intent on introducing new audiences to the world of contemporary art that children under the age of 12 is FREE!

Throughout the year, MOCA Clevelabd sponsors free Family Art Studio nights. In addition to opening receptions, the Family Art Studios provide families the opportunity to enjoy new exhibitions while keeping children engaged with hands on activities. Light fare and beveridges are available for all guests as well.

For more information and to begin your adventure with contemporary art, please visit MOCA Cleveland's site, http://www.mocacleveland.org/index.php

Summer is Here!

Welcome to Family Friendly! All summer long, I will share creative and family friendly events, activities and places with you. No matter how old or young- there's something for everyone in the family to keep busy! Slather on your sunblock and let's hit the road!