Grab & Go Kids Planner: Pancakes, Chili and Bugs

We've assembled a weekly calendar of kid-friendly activities and new places to try out with children.

Each week, we'll give you the info on the five best family activities or events for the week.

You're time-pressed enough, so we're happy to do the research and find the best things to do and places to go, both locally and within reasonable striking distance.

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!

FAMILY BEST BETS OF THE WEEK

1.

Where/When: , 321 Wisconsin Ave.; 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Thursdays

Why Go: Teach your children between ages 3 and 5 to love reading through the library’s story time. In addition to stories, music will be involved. There is also an opportunity for your young one to wiggle.

Pricing: Free

2.

Where/When: Waukesha County Expo; 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday

Why Go: Spend the morning or afternoon with friends and family eating fluffy pancake after fluffy pancake. Dribble on the syrup and you are set for a great breakfast.

Pricing: $5 in advance, $6 at the door, children 5 and under free (tickets can be purchased at Waukesha State Bank in advance)

3.

Where/When: , 100 E Broadway; 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday

Why Go: Warm up your body with all-you-can-eat chili while warming your heart because you and your family will be supporting the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Texas Roadhouse rolls and assorted desserts will be featured as well.

Pricing: $8 for adults, $5 for Carroll University students, seniors and children.

4. U Bug Me

Where/When: Todd Wehr Theater, Marcus Center for the Performing Arts/Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Why Go: First, supporting the arts always feels good. Second, this is opening weekend of a cute play about a fly and an earwig who prepare for the queen bee’s annual Soil Contest.

Pricing: Tickets start at $11.50.

5. Mad Science Workshop

Where/When: Brookfield Lab, 655 N. Brookfield Rd., Suite 2, Brookfield/9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday

Why Go: Educational fun is always a good route to take. This one is all about pH factor and exploring acids and bases through experiments and other fun activities. Online registration is required, or by calling 414-768-1678.

Pricing: $20 per child