memkids.com

One of the books I picked up at the library’s discard sale was the a book published 15 years ago entitled, “Explore Memphis with Children” written by Debbie Monroe and Marci Sweeney, in some sort of partnership with MIFA. I thought it might be a nice resource for someone like myself, who has children, wants to explore Memphis, but has only been here 2.5 years. (I also rely on Stacey Greenberg, a native Memphian who always knows what is going on and takes her children to just about everything! She’s also an Urban Parentilla, like myself and her outings skew to the Midtown and Downtown area.)

It’s a good little book, but there are many, many out of date entries. One thing that stuck out at me as I read is the closure of pricey outdoor entertainment venues (Libertyland, Adventure River Park, Maywood Beach) which if the Ericson Group has its way with the Pyramid may change.

Which leads me to this. You don’t have to pay a dime to have a wonderful time with your children. There are acres and acres of parks in Memphis, nearly every museum and attraction offers free days/times and there are many places to explore that you may not think of as traditional kid places, but offer up free fun.

Let me know, what are the free places that your family enjoys the most? Drop me an email. Write about it and let me post it. Or heck, just even try a comment (and don’t forget the free list on this site which I’m still updating, but getting closer to complete).

Rats
I just saw this and thought it might be interesting for families. The Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art is holding its 4th Annual Chinese New year Art Competition. 2008 is the year of the rat in the Chinese Zodiac and the museum invites you to enter a drawing or painting of a rat that could be used as a mascot. Winners will be announced at the Belz Museum Annual Family Day on February 16.