Grab and Go Kids Planner: The Great Outdoors, Plays, Poetry and Art

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 upcoming family activities or events.

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.

1.

Where/when: ; 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday (events run simultaneously).

Why go: Learn how to find geocaches with a GPS unit and how to get around in the great outdoors (includes a lesson in map reading and orienteering compass use).

Pricing: $5 for both programs (both events run simultaneously, so you can switch back and forth); or it’s $3 for one program. (Note: Daily park pass is $5.)

2.

Where/When: Highland Recreation Area; 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday.

Why go: Enjoy letterboxing, which involves searching for special letter boxes in beautiful terrain; make sure you wear comfortable clothing suited to the weather.

Pricing: Free, but register at www.heavnernatureconnections.org or call Emily Senese at 248-889-2727.

3. THE MATCHMAKER

Where/When: Central United Methodist Church at 3882 Highland Rd.; Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. 

Why Go: Enjoy The Matchmaker, as presented by Lakeland Players; it’s a farce in four acts upon which the musical Hello, Dolly! was based.

Pricing: $10 general admission at the door or online (but service fee with online purchase).

4.

Where/when: Milford Public Library, 330 Family Dr., Milford; 6:30 p.m. Saturday.

Why go: Support the arts while enjoying local art and poetry talent.

Pricing: $10 adults; $5 for children under 17 years.

5.

Where/when: , 1836 N. Old U.S. 23, Howell; noon-6 p.m. Saturday.

Why go: Family-friendly event open to people of all ages; promotes musical talent.

Pricing: Free