By Emily Rust
School’s out, the pool’s already getting old and the kids’ summer boredom has set in. To change up the routine, hit these local events in between Fourth of July parades and festivals.
National Geographic Kids Club
July 1, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Even indoors, insects rule this month’s kids club. For a shopping break, Bob the Bug Man will help children wrangle up bugs using a bug net and magnifying glass. Snacks, music, a bug themed story and games will help children learn more about creepy crawlies. Insider tip: To hear about more kids events, register for free online. Show your membership card to the Concierge Desk to receive a free Tysons Corner Center Balloon. / Bloomingdale’s Court Level One, Tysons Corner Center; 1961 Chain Bridge Road, McLean; free
Taratibu Youth Association. Photo courtesy of Wolf Trap.
Taratibu Youth Association
July 3, 10:30 a.m.
The Maryland-based youth dance company performs hip-hop, modern and traditional African dance, teaching children about African and African-American culture. Ranging in age from 11 to 18, dancers combine vocal performances with dance. Their Wolf Trap performance will include a new Taratibu piece that encourages audience participation. / Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, Wolf Trap; 1551 Trap Road, Vienna; $8
Parent/Child Arts and Crafts Workshop
July 5, 10 a.m.-noon
If you’re already tired of the oppressive summer heat, remember the days of winter chill with “Winter in July” themed crafts. Little ones will decorate paper plates with scenes of Santa’s summer vacation and artist Pat Mcintyre will help them turn their creations into snowglobes. / Reston Art Gallery & Studios; 11400 Washington Plaza West, Reston; free
Patty Shukla. Photo courtesy of Jammin Java.
Patty Shukla Kids Music
July 5, 10:30 a.m.
With six music apps, 5 CDs and more than 77,000 YouTube subscribers, Patty Shukla is ready to keep children entertained. Her interactive performance and upbeat songs will keep your keeps awake on Saturday morning. / Jammin Java; 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna; $8
Kids Fishing Clinic
July 5, 11 a.m.
Bring a fishing pole and head out to the Occoquan Reservoir, to learn the basics of fishing. Children will learn about different types of fish and how to adjust their fishing rods accordingly. Later on, families can rent boats or hit the trail and bike beginner, intermediate and advance loops. / Fountainhead Regional Park; 10875 Hampton Road, Fairfax Station; free, reservations required
The Ice Queen
July 5, 1 p.m.
For fairytale lovers, this original play follows the story of the Ice Queen’s quest to find love including trouble with Jack Frost along the way. / Workhouse Arts Center; 9601 Ox Road, Lorton; $9-12