How To Keep the Kids Amused This Week

Seems they were just home yesterday for Christmas, but they're back!

Yup, it's true, this week is February school vacation and the kids are going to be underfoot and seeking adventure. Fear not, we've got some ideas for you. Here are our top five picks:

1. Love to run? Need to feel athletic? This Grafton Recreation program is for you. All Day Sports will take place at the Grafton Elementary School from 8  a.m. to 3 p.m. all week. The cost of $155 covers a combination of warm-up games, and sports such as soccer, kickball, wacky ball and dodge balll. 40 kids in grades six through 12 are needed to run this program. Visit www.grafton-ma.gov for more information.

2. Would you like to get in touch with your wild side? Sign up for the Winter Outdoor Adventure program running at the Lions Club on Brigham Hill Road. Learn how to ice fish, snowshoe (weather permitting), camp in the cold, build fire build and other outdoor skills. The cost of $200 covers from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. all week. A minimum of 24 kids over six is needed to run this program.

3. Love tubing, skiing and other outdoor fun? Ski Ward will be open throughout the vacation week. They are offering a variety of classes and programs for ski or snowboard. Come for the day or the week. Rentals are available. For more information www.skiward.com and click on the February vacation link.

4. How about a Zentangle? The Grafton Public Library will host a Zentangles program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Feb. 22. Zentangle artist Jeannine Ballarossa will lead the group in this relaxing and expressive art form. You must register through the library ahead of time. Best for kids 12 and over.

5. Love to draw? The Grafton Public Library is offering Creative Doodling for kids aged 8 to 12 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. Feb. 24. Bring your creativity and your markers and Kristie Proctor will help you tap into your inner doodler. Let loose with shapes and form, and the instructor will teach you how to create art.