KidsOutAndAbout's weekly e-newsletter |
|
|
|
Save the Date Sat, Mar 14: Maple Syrup Festival at the Y at Watson Woods Sat, Mar 14: Haudenosaunee Winter Games, Food & Storytelling at Ganondagan State Historic Site
Wed, Mar 18: Dog Man: The Musical at Kodak Center at Kodak Center
Fri, Mar 20: GCV&M Maple Sugar Festival starts Fri, Mar 20: Visit The Easter Bunny starts at Eastview Mall Fri, Mar
20-Sun, Mar 22: Dear Edwina JR at Stages (A Magical Journey Thru Stages) Fri, Mar 20-Sun, Mar 22: GCHS Presents: Singin' in the Rain at Gates Chili Musical Theatre
Fri, Mar 20-Sun, Mar 22: KIDZ CITY SPRING/SUMMER SALE 2026 in Panorama Plaza, Penfield
Sat, Mar 21: Maple Sugaring Weekends start at Cumming Nature Center of RMSC Sat, Mar 21: Ferret Fest: Spring Craft & Play Day to support Furever Ferrets Sanctuary
Sat, Mar 21: Maple Weekend 2026 at Helmer Nature Center Sun, Mar 22: Cinderella's Children's Ball at Rochester City Ballet Sat, Mar
28: The Jungle Book at TYKEs Theatre Mon, Mar 30: Esports & Gaming Spring Break Camp 2026 at Great Lakes Gaming
Tue, Mar 31: Rochester Red Wings opening day at ESL Ballpark Tue, Mar 31: Rock Climbing Spring Vacation Program at Central Rock Gym Rochester Sat, Apr 4: 2026 Riedman Foundation Trout Derby in Powder Mills Park |
Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers:
For much of the country this year, March simultaneously is bringing hope that spring may in fact return to North America... AND ALSO the awareness that every car is at risk for the foreseeable future. All winter long, water seeps into asphalt cracks, freezes, expands, melts, and freezes again, and bit by bit the driving experience becomes a game called Avoid the
Crater. But lately I’ve started seeing the repair trucks out there again, their bright-vested workers moving methodically from hole to hole with their shovels. Every time I pass them, it gives me a lift, not just because it means someday soon I'll start seeing flowers out in the real world, but also because potholes are one of those perfect reminders of what humans do. Playrooms, projects, and paperwork start out neat, but over time, weather, wear, gravity, and
procrastination take their toll. No matter how strict the system, order gradually slides toward chaos. And then humans step in and make it right again. I saw the cycle in action at the KidsOutAndAbout office last week: Our storage room had slowly become a museum of random supplies, half-filled bins, and Christmas decorations that had been tossed in with a hopeful Future Us will deal with this someday. Fortunately, my colleague Michelle, who works in our data department,
is also a genius organizer. A few hours after Future Michelle stepped in and applied logic and elbow grease, the little room had transformed from a cluttered cave into a serene space. The quickening of the seasons seems to bring that same energy into our homes: Closets get sorted, garages get swept, junk drawers finally meet their match. It feels good, not just because the space looks better, but because fixing things reminds us of something important: Disorder is normal, but
it’s not permanent. Humans can step in and bring brightness back. So here’s to spring cleaning, organized shelves, and freshly patched roads. Our tires, and our spirits, roll much more smoothly because humans fill potholes.
—Debra Ross, publisher of KidsOutAndAbout.com, co-author of The Eclipse Effect: How to Seize
Extraordinary Moments to Build Strong Communities
|
|
|
KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Connect more. Do more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
|
|
|
Get ready for a tail-wagging good time when Dog Man: The Musical takes the stage at the Kodak Center in Rochester on March 18, 2026! Based on the bestselling books by Dav Pilkey, this hilarious and heartfelt adventure follows Dog Man—half dog, half policeman—as he battles Flippy the cyborg fish and the villainous Petey the cat. Packed with catchy songs, laugh-out-loud moments, and lovable characters, this epic production brings the world of Dog Man to life in a way the whole family will love. Recommended for ages 6+, it’s a must-see musical adventure! Friday, 3/13 10am-10pm only: BOGO FREE tickets for National K9 Veteran’s Day with offer passcode K9VETERANS.
|
|
|
|
Saturday, March 14: Head to Ganondagan in Victor for Snowsnake demonstrations, Dog sled demonstrations, Haudenosaunee Social Dancing workshops, Storytelling, Traditional games, Food demonstrations & sampling, Maple sugar & traditional tapping demonstrations, Haudenosaunee White Corn inspired foods for purchase, Children’s activities, and more!
|
|
|
|
Hipocampo Children's Books is celebrating Pi and PIE this Saturday, March 14 at 3pm! Fun math games and delicious pie tasting at Hipocampo! Join Hipocampo for an Irrational Celebration of Math! Pi (π ) is a mathematical constant and the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. It is an irrational number, meaning it is a decimal with no end and no repeating patterns. On Pi Day (3.14), we'll be celebrating the irrationality of math! We'll be playing math games, having tons of fun AND EATING PIE! Join us for this wonderful free event, made possible by the Rochester Museum and Science Center
|
|
|
|
This March and April, Great Lakes Gaming will present a Spring Break Esports Camp for kids ages 8–13. Campers will take part in team-based gaming sessions that promote communication, leadership, and strategic thinking. They’ll also gain creative tech skills through beginner video editing, crafting highlight reels from their own recorded gameplay. Session 1: March 30 & 31. Session 2: April 1 & 2. Each session is $275. Info at https://www.glgaminglounges.com/camps-programs-winterbreak
|
|
|
|
March 21-29: It's the SWEETEST time of the year! Maple Sugaring season has arrived at the RMSC Cumming Nature Center (CNC) in Naples, NY. The CNC is hosting its 48th annual Maple Sugaring Weekends the last two weekends in March. Enjoy a locally-sourced pancake breakfast before heading outside for tapping & boiling demonstrations on the trail to the Sugar House–then see how syrup gets from tree to plate! Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance, this event sells out annually.
|
|
|
|
Get ready for a feel-good musical full of charm, laughter, and heart! Dear Edwina JR at A Magical Journey Thru Stages is a delightful show that celebrates kindness, confidence, and doing your best. Follow Edwina and her friends as they put on a talent show to prove she’s ready for the “Advice Lady” spotlight, sharing helpful tips and big dreams along the way. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and plenty of humor, this production shines with positivity and youthful energy. Perfect for audiences of all ages, come support our students and enjoy an uplifting, entertaining experience that will leave you smiling from curtain to curtain.
|
|
|
|
Join Rochester City Ballet for our Cinderella Ball, where young guests of all ages can step right into the fairytale world of Cinderella! Young guests are invited to experience the magic of ballet in an enchanting afternoon designed just for them. Children will enjoy a special live ballet performance by professional dancers, participate in creative arts and crafts, and meet Cinderella and her royal friends up close. The celebration continues with a lively dance party and other delightful surprises throughout the event. It’s a perfect opportunity for children and families to experience the wonder of live ballet in a fun, interactive, and unforgettable way. Sunday March, 22nd 11:00 AM & 1:30 PM Rochester City Ballet Studios
|
|
|
|
Step into the spotlight with the Cobblestone Community Players for a spectacular showcase of Broadway classics and contemporary favorites! From the gravity-defying hits of Wicked and the revolutionary beats of Hamilton to the razzle-dazzle of Chicago, this vibrant production brings your favorite stories to life. Our talented local performers will take you on a journey through the full spectrum of musical theatre, featuring heartfelt ballads, bold character-driven moments, and powerhouse ensemble showstoppers from shows like Rent, Hairspray and other Broadway gems. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the world of musicals, come celebrate the passion and artistry of our community in an evening of pure theatrical magic.
|
|
|
|
Discover a joyful way to learn at Renaissance Academy Charter School of the Arts! As a tuition-free public charter school for grades K–6, we blend rigorous academics with daily creative expression. Whether your child is exploring the arts or cozying up with Remy, our beloved school therapy dog, they will grow with true confidence and a sense of belonging. Don’t miss your chance to join our vibrant school family! Reach out to Mrs. Moyo-White at moyowhite@renacad.org or (585) 225-4200 ext. 209 with any questions. Apply by April 1 for the 2026-2027 lottery at GoodSchoolsRoc.org or renacad.org.
|
|
|
|
Jump into a summer of dance at Dance Connection! Our 2026 summer programs offer exciting camps and classes for all ages—from 18 months to adults! Little ones can enjoy Grownup & Me sessions, while kids and teens explore tap, ballet, jazz, hip hop, African, contemporary, and musical theatre. Summer classes are a great way to try dance in just six fun-filled lessons or build skills while having a blast! For ages 3–8, our Summer Morning Camps combine dance, crafts, games, tumbling, and friendship-building. Adults, too, can join the fun with classes for all levels. Join us this summer! Learn more on our website here: https://www.danceconnectionrochester.com/
|
|
|
|
For 80 years, Camp Cherith of WNY has provided a safe, fun, traditional faith-based summer camp experience for youth ages 7 - 17. Campers choose from activities such as hiking, kayaking, archery, tree climbing, horses, crafts, drama, swimming and more. Our 125-acre property is the perfect place for campers to get out in nature to learn and grow. With small cabin groups and vetted, background checked staff, campers are free to relax and enjoy making new friends and learning new skills. No matter the experience level, interests or skill set, Camp Cherith offers something for everyone. Join us for summer 2026! Making memories, one campfire at a time!
|
|
|
|
Enter to win a family four-pack of tickets to A Bad Case of Stripes, performing at TYKEs theatre at the JCC! April 11–19, 2026: With infectious energy and a heartfelt message, A Bad Case of Stripes reminds audiences of all ages that embracing your true colors is the key to self-discovery and acceptance. Instructions in the details, drawing March 28.
|
|
|
|
Saturday, March 14, 5:30-7:30: Looking for something for your child to do while you are out? Come join us for our Parent Night Out event featuring Elio! We will watch the movie and do a dance party to music from the movie. You do not need to be enrolled at Studio East Dance Company to enjoy this event, all are welcome! $25 per student, $15 per sibling.
|
|
|
|
Start your morning off right with KinderZoo! This month’s KinderZoo theme is full of discovery and fun! In Mighty Millipedes (ages 18 months–3 years), our youngest learners will meet a marvelous millipede, make a themed craft, play games, and more!
|
|
|
|
Come to Museum of the Earth on Sunday, March 15th from 5:00pm-7:00pm for a sensory friendly museum experience for visitors of all ages and abilities! Sensory Friendly Hours at the Museum provides an opportunity for visitors with Sensory Processing Disorder or other developmental disabilities to enjoy a more sensory-friendly experience. These hours will take place quarterly on the third Sunday (March 15, June 21, September 20, and December 20) from 5:00pm-7:00pm.
|
|
|
Have a wonderful weekend!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
|
|
