5 Kid-Friendly Events This Week in the Pikesville Area

Keeping children occupied can be challenging in the summer heat. These activities are indoors at air-conditioned locations:

1. . Kids ages 6-12 can exercise their imaginations during this Legos session, set for 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Pikesville Branch Library, 1301 Reisterstown Road. Advanced registration is required. All children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult. For info or to register, call 410-887-1234.

2. . Older kids and history buffs can enjoy The Maryland Historical Society's "Inventing a Nation," displayed at the gallery, 201 W. Monument St., Baltimore. The exhibit is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Cost: Adults, $6; seniors, $5; students with ID/children (from ages 3 to 18), $4; children younger than 3, free. For more info, call 410-685-3750 or visit the society's website.

3. at Barnes & Noble Booksellers. Old and new picture books will be read at 10 a.m. Wednesday and Saturday at the store, located at 1819 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville. Older kids are welcome as well, and no registration is required. For more information, call 410-415-5758, or visit the Barnes & Noble website.

4. . The Pikesville Branch Library has stories and games geared to toddlers' interests and abilities. This event is held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday for children ages 2 and 3. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Advanced registration is required at the library. Call 410-887-1234 for more information.

5. . Children ages 2-5 will enjoy singing and reading. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The event is set for 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Pikesville Branch Library.