Friday, May 24, 2019

FREE Summer Activities

This is a sponsored post - thank you for the support from the businesses who have an ad in the article. 
Let them know YNA sent you!
Looking for fun this summer?  Sioux Falls is such a great community and has so much to offer families.  Check out this full list of FREE kid-friendly things to do in Sioux Falls.  Enjoy your next adventure!

1. Storytime at REACH
Join in a fun storytime at REACH Literacy on May 27 at 9:15 AM.  Twice a month you can join in the fun storytime at REACH with storytelling, singing, small craft and more.  Register.  Other dates this summer: 6/10, 6/24, 7/8, 7/22, 8/12, 8/26.

2. Play on Inflatables
Tuesdays throughout the summer, Golf Addiction will be hosting a family-friendly Food Truck Tuesday event.  Try something new or grab your go-to food truck fare for dinner and let the kids play on the free inflatables.  Event is 5-9 PM on May 28, June 11 & 25, July 9 & 23, August 6 & 20. 

3. World Play Day
Join Live Well Sioux Falls and the Toy Lending Library at Sertoma Park on May 28th for World Play Day. All ages welcome from 2-4 PM.

4. Moonlight Movies
The summer series of Moonlight Movies starts on June 1 and continues each Saturday through August 31.  Watch a family-friendly movie outdoors at Fawick Park in Downtown Sioux Falls.  Movies begin at dusk.


Thank you, Ryan Nelson, for helping sponsor this post!

5. Kids Bike Rodeo and Races
Central Plains Cycling and First Evangelical Free Church partner in offering a fun biking event for kids and their families, the 4th Annual Kids Bike Rodeo and Races. Twelve station Kid's Bike Rodeo, Kid's Bike Races, Lunch and Drawings.  Event is June 1, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM at First Evangelical Free Church.

6. Paddling
The Outdoor Campus is starting Super Saturdays for the summer.  On June 1 or July 13 take the family out to do some paddling.  All equipment is provided and no registration is needed.

7. Road Races
All those 6+ are welcome to join in Road Races at Spencer Park starting at 6:30 PM on June 3, 10, 17 and 24.

8. Build a Putting Green
The Home Depot Kid's Workshops provide fun building opportunities each month.  On June 1 between 9 AM - 12 PM, kids can work with their parent in building a putting green.  Register ahead.

9. Trail Ridge Show n Shine
Join in the fun at the Trail Ridge Show n Shine Social on June 1, 11 AM - 2 PM.  Car show and bouncy houses.

10. Fargo CineDome Movie
Join in the fun of celebrating The Washington Pavilion's 20th Anniversary on June 1st.  As part of the fun, there are free movies in the Fargo CineDome!  Also find free admission to the Kirby Science Museum, face painting, children's activities and so much more fun.

11. Summer Reading Kick-off Party
Join the Siouxland Libraries in a fun party to kick off their summer reading program on June 1 at the Downtown Library location from 10 AM - 3 PM.  Games, crafts, lego building, prizes and more!

12. Learn about Outerspace
Join in the fun in learning about outerspace with a constellation craft, marbled planets and gravity defying activities, best for K-5 aged kids.  This fun is at the Caille Branch Library on June 2 from 2:30-3:30 PM.

13. Summer Developmental Track Meets
Kids ages 2-19 can participate in track and field events on Wednesdays in June at the Summer Developmental Track Meets.  The meets take place at Lincoln High School Track with registration opening at 5 PM and events starting at 5:45 PM.

14. Fun at the Kirby Science Discovery Center
Receive free admission to the Kirby Science Discovery Center and Visual Arts Center at the Washington Pavilion on First Fridays of the month. This summer attend free on June 7, July 5, August 2. Free admission from 5-8 PM.

15. Visit the Zoo Express
This summer's Tot Lot will have fun visitors.  The Great Plain Zoo's Zoo Express will bring animals to learn about and meet for those ages 6 and under at 10 AM on June 17 at Laurel Oak Shelter and June 18 at Spellerberg Park Shelter.

16. Vacation Bible School
There are several VBS sessions going on throughout Sioux Falls, some of them are free!  Check out a list of VBS going on in the area.

17. Catch it, Clean it, Cook it
Learn the basics to fishing and equipment when you sign your family up for the Catch it, Clean it, Cook it class at The Outdoor Campus on June 6 or July 11.  Then head out and test the waters at the pond.  Hopefully the fish will be biting and you will then learn how to clean it and cook it! Ages: Family/5+

18. Teen Art Show
View local area teen's art at the Downtown Library on June 6 from 6:30-7 PM.  Have a teen who would like to submit an entry?  Deadline for entries is May 31.  See all details here.

19. Eastbank Block Party
Free admission to listen to live music at the Eastbank Block Party in Downtown Sioux Falls each first Friday of the month starting with June 7, through September.  Food trucks will be on hand if you would like to make a purchase.  Picnic tables are provided, however you may choose to bring your own chairs.

20. Bubble Walk
Get your bubbles ready and join in the Bubble Walk at Terrace Park on June 7.  Walk with others blowing bubbles, listen to children's music and more.  Event starts at 10:30.  Kids are encouraged to bring their loose change to help support the Ronald McDonald House.

21. Archery
The Outdoor Campus is hosting Super Saturdays for the summer.  On June 8, July 6 or July 20 take the family out to do some archery.  All equipment is provided and no registration is needed.

22. Festival of Cultures
On June 8, you can enjoy the sights, sounds and more from around the world in a one day festival at Falls Park.  There is no admission fee to the Festival of Cultures.  Other activities available at a cost.

23. Fishing at Family Park
Family Park is home of fun with fishing this summer.  Join in the fun from 9 AM - 12 PM each Saturday June 1-July 27.

24. Watch Hot Air Balloons Take Off
Follow the Sioux Falls Ballooning Association on Facebook to see posts about take off times and locations.  Weather depending at time of take off, you can watch the whole process of setting up the balloons to take off!  This is a sight to see.

25. Flag Day Event
A free Flag Day Concert will take place at Veteran's Municipal Park on June 14 at 7 PM.

26. Legend's Sport Camps
A series of active sports camps put on by Legends for Kids will take place between June 13-15.  Register your kids now for the sports they would like to participate in. With choices such as golf, softball/baseball, soccer, wrestling, gymnastics, martial arts and more, there is sure to be something for everyone.

27. Play Star Wars Galactic Games
Join several Siouxland Library locations for kids K-5 in playing Star Wars Galactic Games. Register ahead. Several locations are participating, search by "Star Wars Galactic Games" to find your participating location.


28. Reading Programs
Find summer programs to keep the kids reading this summer.  The Siouxland Libraries and Barnes & Noble offer reading tracking programs, there is a reading to a dog program, free game tokens at Chuck E Cheeses and more!  Check it out all out in the Summer Reading article here.

29. View Historic Great Plains Buildings
A visit to Heritage Park on the grounds of Augustana University will allow you to take steps back in time.  A church, school, home and cabin allow visitors a view into history.  Summer tours are available beginning in June.

30. Tot Lot
Toddlers and Preschoolers are welcome to join in the fun with their parent at Tot Lot this summer.
This fun program put on by Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation will have weekly themes, activities and more.  Find a session to join Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs during the week 9 AM-11 AM.  See calendar for dates starting June 10 - July 25.

31. Learn to Bike Better 
Kid's ages 10-14 and their parents can attend a free workshop, Bike Better Day Camp, dealing with biking skills and safety at First Lutheran Church on June 15, 10 AM - 4 PM

32. Visit Good Earth State Park
One of the newest state parks, Good Earth State Park, sets on the southeast side of Sioux Falls.  Walk scenic trails and don't forget to grab a walking stick at the trail head for added fun and/or visit the indoor historic exhibits.  Typically there is a $6 per car fee, unless you have a state park sticker, however on June 16 you can visit all state parks for free!  This would be a great time to visit the community's very own state park.

33. Scavenger Hunt
To celebrate 100 years, the South Dakota Game Fish & Parks has a scavenger hunt going on this summer.  There are several State Parks participating.  Take selfies at particular points and have the opportunity to win prizes.  Remember that a state park sticker or daily pass is necessary if entering parks by car.  Also, there is a FREE State Park day coming up on June 16!  See rules and parks here. Good Earth State Park on the southeast side of Sioux Falls is included.

34. Learn Cosplay
REACH Literacy is going to help you out with learning several aspects of cosplay this summer!  All ages are welcome to join in this fun free event on June 19 from 6:30-8:30 PM.

35. Pioneer Fun
Head to the Old Courthouse Museum on June 20 for the Pioneer Fun Kids Activity Day. Learn about history and craft an old fashioned toy.  Call ahead to register 605-367-4210. There are two sessions 9-11 AM or 1-2:30 PM.

36. Three Little Pigs presented by South Dakota Opera
Join the fairytale opera presentation by South Dakota Opera at McKennan Park on June 20 at 7 PM or June 21, 10 AM and 7 PM.  They will be presenting 3 Little Pigs.

37. Pioneer Spray Park
Several different spray features, with a dinosaur design, make this outdoor spray park fun for the kids.  Pioneer Spray Park is open daily at 11 AM.

38. Watch an Airplane Pull
Join in the fun of watching teams compete in an airplane pull.  The 2019 Plane Pull event is to help support Special Olympics South Dakota.  Spectators are welcome to watch, admission is free.  Event is June 21 with the first plane pull starting at 11 AM at the Maverick Air Center.

39. Sensory Play
Ages 2-5 kiddos and their families are welcome to join in the Summer Sensory Play at the Downtown Library location on June 21, 10:15-11 AM.  Explore the summer season through touch, smell, hearing, sight and taste.

40. Kid's Night in the Park
Join in the fun at one or both of the Kid's Night in the Park planned for this summer at McKennan Park.  Carnival-style games, inflatables and summer fun from 6-8 PM on June 25 and July 30.

41. Bookwalk Featuring Rockin' Red
A bookwalk is a great way to enjoy a good book while getting some steps in!  Head to Downtown River Greenway Amphitheater to take a walk and read the pages of the book.  Rockin' Red will be playing music 9:30-10 AM and 10:15-10:45 AM.  Event is 9-11 AM on June 26.

42. Interactive "ET" Movie
Teens are welcome to register now for an interactive showing of "ET" at the Ronning Branch Library on June 27 2-3:30 PM. Participants will receive a script with instructions and actions to do during the movie.

43. Wading Pool
The McKennan Wading Pool offers free swimming throughout the summer. See dates and hours open here.

44. Listen to live 70's Music at the Park
The Sioux Falls Municipal Band can be found in concert throughout Sioux Falls this summer, with several concerts.  Join them on June 30 at Terrace Park at 8 PM for, "8-Tracks and Leisure Suits...the 70s"

45. Independence Day Celebration Parade
Parade will begin at 10 AM on July 4, northbound along Phillips Avenue, beginning at 13th St.  Followed by a free lunch for the first 5,000 at the north side of Falls Park at 11 AM. Full details.

46. Join Flash Mob for Book Readers
The Siouxland Libraries, along with some help, is looking to bring together all those that love to read in a flash mob-like event, Reading Invasion.  Bring your book(s), friends, a blanket or chair and come read along with others that love to read.  July 7 from 7-8 PM at the Terrace Park Bandshell is just one of the Reading Invasions planned this summer.  The Bookmobile and REACH Literacy will be on hand to help you find a book, if you don't have one to read.


47. Disc Golf or Gaga Ball
There are 3 Disc Golf Courses throughout Sioux Falls.  Even with the littles, pick a few "holes" to play. Or grab a ball and play gaga ball.  A couple locations: Explorer Elementary or Fred Assam Elementary.  If you know of others, leave a comment below.  Gaga ball is lots of fun and a great way to burn some energy!

48. Sculpture Walk
Head out on a stroll downtown to view the new 2019 Sculpture Walk art!  You can find a list of sculptures and a map here.

49. Summer Workouts
Teens, age 15-18, can workout all summer long, May 15-September 1 with the Teen Summer Challenge Program at Planet Fitness.

50. Motorcycle Parade
A full parade of motorcyclists make their way through Sioux Falls in celebration of Hot Harley Nights in July.  This year's parade will take place on July 13 at 5:30.  Check for parade route here.

51. Hydrant Block Party
Sioux Falls Fire Rescue and Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation will be coming to a neighborhood near you this summer for fun!  Keep cool by enjoying water sprays and playing games.  Locations will be announced on social media.  The fun will be from 1-3 PM on July 11, 18,  25 and  August 1, 8 and 15.



Thank you Dart Boutique, for helping sponsor this post!
Be sure to check out the Dart Boutique Facebook Page

52. Geocaching
The geocaching site lists sevearal geocaches available in Sioux Falls. Head out and explore the area, with a fun challenge along the way.

53. Pollination Celebration
That's right, get the family together and head to The Outdoor Campus and celebration pollination with area honey businesses, free seed giveaways, booths on creating pollinator gardens, etc.  Join in the fun on July 13 1-4 PM.

54. Stockyards Ag Experience
Have you heard that the Stockyards Ag Experience is now offering free admission?!  Stop in and check them out for an AGventure!

55. Storytime at Barnes & Noble
Most Saturdays at 11 AM you will find a storytime at the Sioux Falls Barnes & Noble. May 25, June 1 and June 8 are on the calendar.  Check here for more storytimes scheduled throughout the summer.

56. Chalk Drawing Contest
Families are invited to Memorial Park Hockey Pen to Parking Lot Picassos on July 14, 1-3 PM. Create your very own chalk masterpiece.  Drawings will be judged for small prizes.

57. Pokemon League
Whether you are looking to trade cards or play the game, join Pokemon League at Game Chest on Sundays 1-5 PM.  League is free, however tournaments have a fee.  Check out other game meet ups at Game Chest.

58. Grow Wings, well sorta
Want to know what it would look like if you were to grow a beautiful set of wings?  Check out the newly installed artwork in the Cathedral District depicting a set of wings that you can take a picture with and then tag #SiouxFallsWings.  You can find the artwork just up from of 7th & Spring at the alley entrance.

59. Listen to 80s/90s Live Rock n Roll Music
Head to McKennan Park Band Shell on July 15 from 7-8 PM for a free live concert at the park of 80/90s music!

60. Check out a Board Game
The Downtown Library location is now offering some games that can be checked out for a 7 day period.  Bored with your board games?  Why not give this new option a try!  Set out a blanket under a shade tree and take in the outdoors while playing a game.

61. Open Gym
Three Community Centers remain open during the summer to offer up gym space, game rooms and more to enjoy!  Great rainy day activities and when it may be too hot to run off that excess energy outside!  Kenny Anderson, MariCar and Morningside will offer hours 1-5 PM, 7 days a week.

62. Play Carnival Games
Kids up to age 6 are invited to play carnival-style games with prizes.  Sioux Falls Parks & Recration is offering Crazy Carnival on two dates, with two locations available.  Laurel Oak Park 7/17 or Spellerberg Park 7/18 both at 10 AM.

63. Jazz Fest
Free concerts at the Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues Jazz Fest on July 19-20.  Music starts at 5 PM on Friday and 12 PM on Saturday. Find all the details here.

64. Launch a Rocket
That's right, make your own rocket and launch it outdoors at the Ronning Branch Library on July 22, 2-3 PM.  Registration opens June 1.

65. Nyberg's Ace Hot Classics Night
The 2nd annual Nyberg's Ace Hot Classic's Night car show with take place on July 27, 5-10 PM at the downtown Nyberg's Ace location.  No entrance fee.

66. Kid's Art Show & Sale
Kids 4-17 are welcome to get crafty and display and/or sell their items at McKennan Park on July 30, 6-8 PM.  Registration is required with Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation.

67. Cardboard Boat Race
There will be 5 age divisions and boats will be judged for creativity, sea-worthiness and quickest to sink at The Great Cardboard Boat Race on August 3,  Kuehn Pool starting at 9 AM. Boats must be constructed of corrugated cardboard and duct tape. Registration is necessary.

68. Basketball Skills Competition
Show off your skills in a hoop shoot, free throw and hot spot contest. Ages 8-17 will be broken into age groups for competitions.  Kenny Andersen Community Center will host this event on August 7, 4-5:30 PM. Registration is required.

69. Fridays on the Plaza
Listen to a great line up of free music performances on the 12th Street Plaza in downtown Sioux Falls.  Fridays on the Plaza takes place on most Fridays throughout the summer, starting May 10.  The fun happens between 11:30 AM - 2 PM..  Bring some money and grab some food truck fare for lunch or a snack while you listen to music.  Food trucks will be available along 1st Ave.

70. Visit the Library
The Siouxland Libraries are full of fun things to do.  Pick out a good book and read it at the library, or use your library card to check it out and find a good place to read!  Play in the small activity areas set up for the younger kids.  Utilize the computers to play games and more.  Check out DVDs and music CDs.  And so much more!  Pick your favorite location or visit a new one each time you visit!

71. Outdoor University
The largest event of the year at The Outdoor Campus offers families the opportunity to try paddling, shooting, archery, games, fishing and more.  Touch ponds and activities for younger children.  Food trucks on hand.  Spend the day with your family in the outdoors.  August 3 9 AM -4 PM.

72. Supervised Playgrounds
Kids ages 7-12 can join in the fun of the Supervised Playgrounds put on by Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation.  Join in crafts, games and other special programs.  There are many opportunities to catch a Supervised Playground from June-August, Monday through Friday, at different park locations throughout Sioux Falls.  See the full schedule here.

73. Volunteer
Giving back to your community is a great way to experience a new adventure.  Getting the kids involved in volunteering is a great thing!  Check out some kid-friendly ways to volunteer in the Sioux Falls area here.

74. Storyland Children's Theatre
Join in the fun, while the Storyland Children's Theatre group presents fun children's plays at the McKennan Park Bandshell.  Performances start June 11, with several shows through July 31.  See complete show details here.


75. Visit the Outdoor Campus
The Outdoor Campus is an outdoor adventure oasis in the middle of our great city.  If you haven't visited, make this the summer to check it out.  From indoor fun with activities for littles, an aquarium and more to tons of outdoor fun.  Trails to walk, a fishing pond, an outdoor play space for kids to explore and more.

76. Bowling
Be sure to register the kids for Kids Bowl Free to have 2 free games daily during the summer at a participating bowling center.  Bowlers are responsible for shoe rental.


77. Look for Painted Rocks
There are many rock painters in the area, who share a little bit of happiness by "hiding" their rock art, hoping that others will find them. A popular spot for rocks to be hidden is The Outdoor Campus, but be sure to keep your eyes open as you adventure around the area. Find more information about the rock painting craze at Sioux Falls Rocks on Facebook.  Maybe you will find yourself inspired to paint and hide your own!

78. Check out Toys
The Toy Lending Library offers toys up for borrowing at the Siouxland Library locations, REACH Literacy and the Toy Lending Library office.  Toys are designed by age and are neatly packaged in a tote.  This is a great way to let kids play with new-to-them toys.

79. Outdoor Cooking
If you are looking for a way to learn more about cooking outdoors, sign your family up for the Outdoor Cooking class at The Outdoor Campus, with 2 dates to choose from: July 23 or August 10.  Be sure to register ahead of time. Ages: Family/5+

80. Dock Dogs
Watch dogs perform water skills at the Scheels Dock Dogs event on August 3.

81. Monarch Watching
Throughout the summer months it is exciting to watch for butterflies flying around the yard.  Have you ever wondered more about the monarch butterfly life cycle, the great migration or how you can help with conservation? Sign your family up for the Monarch Watch class at The Outdoor Campus on August 6 or 13.  Ages: Family/5+

82. Great Plains Balloon Race
See several hot air balloons fill the sky at the 2019 Great Plains Balloon Race on August 9, 10, 11.  Grab a chair and meet your friends at Kenny Anderson Park to watch the splendor of color fill the air.  All events are weather permitting.

83. Stick Your Head in a Lion's Mouth
Head to Lion's Centennial Park where you will find a lion water fountain.  You will need to stick your head into the lion's mouth to get a drink! Ha!  Makes for a fun photo op and why not play at the park as well!

84. Learn to Juggle

Join the Sooo Falls Juggle group on Thursdays from 5:30-7 PM in the center of McKennan Park to learn how to juggle or work on your juggling skills.  This activity is open to everyone, however best suited for those age 8+ and their parents.  Extra balls and clubs will be on hand for those that want to try juggling.

85. Indoor Playground
The Dawley Farm location of Kidtopia offers a cute indoor playground for kids to play.  What a fun spot for a dreary day.  And who doesn't like to be surrounded by toys! Find this location at 901 S Highline Place.

86. Play at Outdoor Playgrounds
There are several parks with playgrounds in the Sioux Falls area.  Play at your favorite parks or try a new one.  Create a challenge to visit a new one each time you play.  Have fun.

87. Concert at Levitt Shell
New to Sioux Falls this summer is the The Levitt Shell.  There will be 30 free concerts performed at the Levitt Shell, with the first show on June 14.  Children's performer, Phil Baker, will perform on June 16.

88. Skateboard or Ride Scooter at a Skate Park
Sioux Falls offers up 4 skate parks available for public use.  Try something new or hone in on your skills this summer.

89. Human Sun Dial
That's right - head to Sertoma Park on a sunny day and give the Human Sun Dial a try and see if you can truly tell time on the dial.


90. Visit Lady Liberty
McKennan Park is home to Sioux Falls' very own statue of Lady Liberty.  Take a stroll through the sunken gardens and then stop and take your picture with Lady Liberty.

91. Sioux Empire Fair
When headed to the Sioux Empire Fair, you can enter for free prior to 1 PM each day.  There are several fun things to do at the fair for free as well, including Old McDonald's Farm, Safety Village and more. August 2-10.

92. Fireworks Display
Be sure to check out the Sioux Falls Jaycee's Fireworks display on the fourth of July.  The display is held at the WH Lyon's Fairground.

93. Museum of Visual Materials
The Museum of Visual Materials offer many free kid-friendly activities Monday through Wednesday. From a Lego table, reading nook, large barbie house, crafting corner, puzzles and more!  Kids can also sign up for Summer Camps, at a cost.

94. Bird Watching at Arrowhead Park
Known for it's community of ducks and geese, Arrowhead Park on the East side of Sioux Falls is a great place to see ducks and geese.  If you have some corn feed, they may love you even more.

95. Chuck E Cheese's Games
Play a few free games on Chuck E Cheese's with their goal tracking calendars and awards certificates.  Check them all out here.  Goals such as reading, school grades, potty training and more!

96. Walk Trails at Mary Jo Arboretum
Grab a water bottle and head out for a walk on the trails at the Mary Jo Arboretum.  Head indoors to cool off and check out the old school house display.

97. Visit Dog Park
Take the family dog to one of the Dog Parks located in Sioux Falls.

98. Full Moon Hike
An evening hike at Great Bear under the full moon's glow.  Participants must be able to walk one mile on uneven terrain.  Walk is on July 16, 7-8 PM. Register here.

99. Visit a Museum
The Old Courthouse Museum, the USS South Dakota Battleship and the Pettigrew Home & Museum are just a few museums to visit in Sioux Falls.

100. Bike Trail 
Hit the bike trails throughout Sioux Falls to take in a whole new view of the great city!  Be sure to follow the Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation page for updates on possible closed portions of the trail, when planning your outing.

101. Eat a Meal
Kids ages 0-18 years of age can grab a free meal Monday through Friday via the Summer Meals Program at several different locations throughout Sioux Falls.  See the flyer for location and time details.

For even more kid-friendly fun this summer, be sure to check out these other helpful pages:
Kid-Friendly Event Calendar
Recurring Event List
Summer Camps
Area Parades & Festivals


Looking for ways to get outdoors with the kids more this summer?  Be sure to check out the Your Next Adventure 75 Day Outdoor Challenge Facebook Group.

Monday, May 13, 2019

Free Summer Workouts for Teens at Planet Fitness

This summer, Planet Fitness is inviting teens to come in for free workouts May 15-September 1, with their Teen Summer Challenge Program.

Teens 15-18 years old can head to any Planet Fitness location with their parent/legal guardian and sign up for the summer program.  The parent/legal guardian will need to be present on the first visit to sign paperwork.  Parents do not need to be a member of Planet Fitness for the teen to participate in the TSC Program.

Teens can use the equipment in the gym and Planet Fitness locations that have a trainer on hand will be offering 2 specific courses for teens each week.

Course 1: Teen Orientation
This course is offered twice a week and designed to teach teens the basics of using the equipment. 

Course 2: Teen Summer Challenge
This course is offered each day during the week and is a 30 minute circuit designed to give teens a good workout in a short time.

When parents sign their teen up for the program, they will be offered a free day pass to try out the gym.

Matt Huff, with the Sioux Falls Planet Fitness, states that along with the program, there will be prizes offered.  The first 25 teens to sign up at a club will receive a Teen Summer Challenge lanyard.

Each month, the teen that attends the most TSC classes will win a TSC bag/bottle combo.  And the teen attending the most classes throughout the program will win a Ogio gym bag.

Matt Huff, further states that in addition to the free workouts during the summer, any teen who has had their parent/guardian sign the waiver for the program will be automatically entered to win a $500 scholarship for academics or athletics (one awarded in all 50 states and each of the Canadian provinces with PF locations). In addition, one grand prize of $5,000 will be awarded (one grand prize winner in the US and Canada)!

Summer Reading

Keep the kids reading this summer with several programs and ideas to keep them motivated! Help reduce the 'summer slide'.

Reading Programs:
K-5 Library Summer Reading Program
A Universe of Stories, this summer's reading program with the Siouxland Libraries, will begin with registration starting May 24.  Kids keep track of their reading time and earn beads for every 15 minutes read.  Read 600 minutes and be entered to win prizes and be invited to the finisher's party.


Teen Library Summer Reading Program
Registration for the teen summer reading program begins on May 15 through the Siouxland Libraries.  For each book that teens read through July 31, they will receive a raffle slip for a chance to win one of the raffle prizes.

Under K Reading Program
Year 'round, the Siouxland Libraries offers a great 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program. Kids earn prizes along the way of hitting the goal of 1,000 books read before kindergarten!  Register and start tracking today.

Barnes & Noble Reading Program
Kids in grades 1-6 can earn a free book, based on their summer reading.  Print off your reading log here and learn more.

Teen Barnes & Noble Reading Program
Join the Barnes and Noble YA Book club and discuss books, takes place second Thursday of the month June - August. Find out more information here.

Chuck E Cheese's 
Read every day for 2 weeks and Chuck E Cheese's will give you 10 free play points. Download and print your reading log here.

Enhancing Reading:
Tail Waggin Tutors
Kids can read to dogs while they work on their summer reading at a Siouxland Library location.  Contact your favorite library location to sign up for a session. 


Reading Bridge Summer Tutoring Program
The Siouxland Libraries and Reading Bridge partner to provide free tutoring for elementary age children during the summer. Tutoring dates between July 8-August 1. Register Here

Finding Books:
Little Free Library 
"Little Free Library" is a non profit organization that inspires a love of reading, builds community and sparks creativity by fostering neighborhood book exchanges around the world. The "take a book, return a book" idea is simple.  Add one of your books to the little library location and feel free to take one home with you.  There are several locations throughout Sioux Falls and surrounding cities. Head on over to the Little Free Library map and put in your zip code. Be sure to keep your eyes out for other little library locations throughout the area, as not all are registered, therefore not included on this list.  And while you are traveling to other locations this year, why not look up the zip code and see what you find!


REACH Literacy Book Store
REACH helps with literacy in the area.  The bookstore is a great place to donate your gently used books - but also an awesome place for the kids to pick out books.  Each family can choose 5 free books during their visit!  What a wonderful way to keep the home library fresh and interesting!  They have a fun little reading nook for young kids and comfy chairs for the older kids and adults, if you prefer to stay and read.


Library
If you own or rent property within Sioux Falls city limits you are eligible for a free library card! Siouxland Libraries offers several convenient locations to borrow books, which can be returned to any of the library locations as well.  See this link for more information on library cards.

For Fun:
Read at the Park
Grab a good book or two and head to one of the area's parks. Find a good shade tree or fun spot in the park and read.  Older kids may enjoy a blanket to lay on under a tree to read their chapter book.  Bring a cold beverage and a snack and stay awhile.  Try a new park or location each time you spend time reading.


Bookwalk Featuring Rockin' Red
A bookwalk is a great way to enjoy a good book, while getting some steps in! Head to Downtown River Greenway Amphitheater to take a walk and read the pages of the book. Rockin' Red will be playing music 9:30-10 AM and 10:15-10:45 AM. Event is 9-11 AM on June 26.

Tuesday, May 7, 2019

Frank Olson Park Review

We visited Frank Olson Park, after picking up donuts at Flyboy.  Donuts at the playground?  Which one won the attention, the donuts or the playground? Ha!

A large picnic shelter sets just off of the playground area.

There is a public restroom that sets to the West of the playground near the softball diamonds.  It is a short walk, maybe about a block away from the playground.  Nice to know it is there in case someone would need to use it.

A nice set of swings is available at the park, with two for the younger kiddos.

For older children, this is a great playground.  With slides, climbing areas and monkey bars there is a little of everything.


The playground has a sticker that says best for ages 5-12. 

There are a couple smaller slides, but the play structure doesn't provide for much protection around the steps and slide area for younger ones. Based on this and the sticker recommendation if you have younger ones, especially those that aren't stable on their feet, please use caution as they will need very close supervision.

There is bench near the playground wood chip pit.

Overall this park is nice, however feel it is better suited for older kiddos that are fully stable on their feet.  Although there are toddler swings to help entertain the younger ones, while the older kids play.

Quick park overview - 

Park Name: Frank Olson Park
Location: 4001 E 16th St
Hours: 5 AM - 10 PM
Family Friendly: Yes
Off Street Parking: No
Bathroom: Yes
Water Fountain: Yes
Picnic Shelter: Yes
Playground: Yes 
Other Activities: Pool, ball diamonds
Open Green Space: Yes - plenty of room for picnics, playing yard games, etc
Nearby: Frank Olson Pool and softball diamonds

Find our review of Sertoma Park here.