Indulge in Nature, Theater, Food and Fashion

Glad you clicked on our new Grab & Go Kids Planner! 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!

1. 

• Where/When: Thur-Sat. at 7 p.m. and Sun. at 2 p.m. at Malibu High School.
• Why go: Take the kids to this classic musical performed by the MHS Middle School Theater Department. Support local kids and enjoy this inspirational story.
• Pricing: $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
• Ideal for: Families with children 5 and up.

2. Music in Motion

• Where/When: Fri. at 9 a.m. sharp, .
• Why go: Bring your little one for a fun morning of music, story and dance.  Taught by marriage and family counselor Linnea Richards, this rewarding class is sure to be a hit with your little one.
• Pricing: Free, but registration is required. Call 818-889-2278 for more information.
• Ideal for: Families with babies and toddlers.

3. Creek Critters

• Where/When: Saturday, 1 p.m.,
• Why go: Get your hands and feet wet while you explore Medea Creek with a ranger. Discover insects and other creatures while learning what they indicate about the creek's health.
• Pricing: Free, but reservations are required. Call 805-370-2348, ext. 204.
• Ideal for: Families with children of all ages.

4. Whale Watching Boat Excursions

• Where/When: Sat. and Sun. departures at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from the Malibu Pier.
• Why go: Spend 2 1/2 hours witnessing the great migration of the beautiful Gray Whale. Every year, the whales make one of the longest migrations of any mammal, from Mexico to the Arctic. Malibu is on their route, so take advantage to discover their beauty and grace.
• Pricing: $45 for adults, $35 for children ages 3-12, children under 3 are free. Reservations can be made by calling 310-456-8031, but walk-ups are welcome.
• Ideal for: Families with children of all ages.

5. Food & Fashion at the Janss Marketplace

• Where/When: Sat. 12-3 p.m., The Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks.
• Why go: Food, kids activities, fashion and music all in one place. Sample food from Buca di Beppo, T.G.I. Fridays, Panera Bread, Sunset Terrace, and more while the kids get their faces painted and you browse the spring fashion trends.
• Pricing: Free!
• Ideal for: Families with children of all ages.