Grab and Go Kids Planner for Feb. 23-27

We've done the research, we've done your homework, and we're ready to give you our suggestions for ways you can get up and go with your family this week and heading into the weekend.

We've even given you a few suggestions for a ride to San Jose for the day, in case you are off at the same time your kids are off from school!

We think we've found a great mix—indoors and outdoors, fun and educational, right here in town and not too far away.

Here are our five suggestions for this week. 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!

Where/When:  Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch, 10840 Coyote Lake Rd., Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday

Why Go: Are you a birder? Does your family like parks? If so, Ranger Crocket wants YOU! Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park will participate in the nationwide Great Backyard Bird Count Friday through Monday. You can volunteer all four days, or you can volunteer for a few hours one day. Tally sheets, pens and maps will be provided. Happy Birding!

Pricing:  Free

Where/When: , 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd. (Gavilan College Theater), Saturday, 3 p.m.

Why Go: Support Gavilan College! Go to the music festival to hear the winners play!

Pricing: Free 

Where/When: 8755 Kern Ave., Wednesday, 8:30-9:30 p.m.

Why Go: If you are a Rod Kelley parent, you should be there. The Rod Kelley Elementary School English Language Advisory Committee meets in the Multipurpose Room. Learn more about the curriculum and instruction for the school's English learners. It also serves as a Parent Club for Spanish-speaking parents. 

Pricing: Free

Where/When: 180 Woz Way, San Jose; Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m

Why Go:  Meet local custom-bicycle designers and fabricators from Santa Cruz's Calfee Designs and San Jose's Shorty Fatz. New riders can learn important safety tips and hone their skills on the museum's obstacle course. The Silicon Valley Bike Coalition will provide additional safe bike parking. Plan your next bicycle outing using a free bike map of Santa Clara County. Customize your bike by creating a license plate and unique decorations to make your bike one-of-a-kind.

Pricing: $10 to enter the museum—and while you are there...

Where/When: 180 Woz Way, San Jose, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m

Why Go:  In The Art Loft, children learn to create visual art that is meaningful to them using both authentic and unconventional art-making tools and materials. Guided by program specialists, children engage in unique visual arts projects that support their exploration of ideas, development of skills and ability to perceive aesthetically. Parents and caregivers can expect to spend about 30 minutes in The Art Loft assisting children in the art processes. Designed for children ages 4-10. 

Pricing: $10 for museum admission fee