What Can I Do with the Kids this Week?

Parents all over Grafton got a preview of February vacation and time home with the kids with our recent snow days. And  just in case they are looking for something to do besides baking cookies, sledding or cleaning their rooms, the kids might like to try out some of these local activities during vacation week.

is offering an all-day sports program for children ages 6 to 12 at Grafton Middle School. The program runs from Tuesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on school vacation week.

Kids can learn teamwork and banish some winter doldrums with physical activity in games such as kickball and soccer. New games are played in each class and the cost is $155 according to the town’s website. Call the Recreation Department for details.

The sporty set can also head out to the Buffone Arena in Worcester for a public skate session. The schedule varies but the ice is open to the public all week. Check the website or call them at 508-277-7640 for details. Skate rentals are available.

Ski Ward in Shrewsbury has alpine-only ski lessons for kids ages 4 to 7 during vacation week. Alpine or snowboard programs are available for kids 8 to 14 for one- to five-day sessions. Ski Ward can be reached at 508-842-6346.

EcoTarium in Worcester has built a vacation week activity lineup with build-it-yourself fun. Kids can assemble their own LED lights, use levers and cams and make toys from various items, including  peas.

Slimy silly putty is another fun workshop project at EcoTarium this week that will have kids smiling. The Toymakers’ Workshop is free with museum admission and is offered Tuesday through Saturday. It’s recommended for kids in elementary, preschool and middle school. EcoTarium’s phone number is 508-929-2700.

has a special performer scheduled on Feb. 23 at 2:30 p.m.

Children’s entertainer Ed Popielarczyk brings his own brand of storytelling, comedy and magic to the children’s room. Considering that he is billed on his website as a “flea circus ringmaster,” it will surely be an entertaining afternoon for families.

Reservations are requested for this event. Preceding the show, story time for 4- and 5- year olds happens at the library at 10:30 a.m., along with a craft. Story time for smaller children, 2- and 3-year-olds, is held on Tuesday and Friday. Call the library or see the library website for details.

Vacations are a great time for families to try something new together. Defense-Wise Martial Arts in South Grafton offers a family karate night every Wednesday, including during vacation.

Kids have to be at least 6 years old to attend. The studio’s website lists the cost as $25 for two family members and $5 each after that. Their number is 774-275-0614.

Remember, all of these events may be subject to cancellation or changes, so call ahead.