baton rouge family friendly events Archives

Brec’s Baton Rouge Zoolights – Making Spirits Bright

November 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo for Zoolights from November 25th through December 30th! This nightly event is presented by Children’s Hospital of New Orleans and features more than 50 illuminated sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays for the whole family to enjoy.

Again this year, the Zoo will be partnering with The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to bring more impact & excitement to Zoolights. Every guest presenting a non-perishable food item during the hours of Zoolights, will receive a 50% discount from the regular admission price. Regular admission prices are: $5 for adults/teens; $4 for senior citizens; $3 for children (2-12 years old) and $3 for Zoo members. These amounts will be cut in half when a non-perishable food item is presented at the time of entry & all food donations will go directly to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Last year, 6,933 pounds of food were collected during this drive. The goal is to reach 7,500 pounds this year!

Baton Rouge Zoolights

During each evening, the Safari Post Gift Shop and Flamingo Café will remain open & feature special holiday treats and gift options.

WHEN: November 25 – December 30 – Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
Admissions gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

ADMISSION:
Adults/Teens: $5
Seniors: $4
Ages 2-12: $3
Friends of the Zoo Members: $3 per person

Prices will be reduced by 50% when guests present non-perishable food items to be donated to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.

ZOOLIGHTS IS:

A mile-long trail through the Zoo
More than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays
A festive family activity, adding to the quality of life for residents throughout the region.

Baton Rouge Zoolights displays will include the following:

ILLUMINATED SCULPTURES: Visitors will find illuminated sculptures representing animals and traditional symbols of the holidays.

GIANT SPECTACULARS: Larger-than-life displays capture the imagination of children of all ages. These displays may include: Flamingos, Giraffes, Lions, Tigers, Gorillas, Rhinos, Elephants, Alligators, Giant Santa, Giant Snowmen, Holiday Trains, Santa in Sleigh pulled by Giant Reindeer and Toy Soldiers. Displays can be up to 30 ft. tall!

ANIMATED SPECTACULARS: Animated displays add additional entertainment value to our event. The use of high-wattage, computer-controlled displays will provide exciting animation to displays.

During each evening, the Safari Post Gift Shop and Flamingo Café will remain open & feature special holiday treats and gift options. On Friday and Saturday nights, representatives from the Children’s Hospital of New Orleans will be on hand with fun activities and gifts for the kids.

Additional ZooLights Information: https://www.brzoo.org/events/special/zoolights/

Looking for more festive family fun? Find more a plethora of holiday events to enjoy this season in our 2022 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}.

Corn Maze at Burden – What to Know Before You Go

October 28, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

As a family, we have learned so much culturally from our move to America. One of the things I have loved embracing is the holidays here and the traditions surrounding them. Fall is when all the pumpkins come out, and sweater weather and gumbo making is in full swing.

There are specific experiences that each season here offers, and having our children be a part of these new traditions is very exciting. There is something magical in having so many wonderful memory-making traditions and times with your children; so much joy is shared in these moments!

Corn Maze at Burden

Annually we carve pumpkins (well… mostly, my hubby does all the work,) organize Halloween outfits, and go to a pumpkin patch as our ‘must-do’ traditions. We found our favorite pumpkin patch fall fun day at the LSU Botanical gardens, and this year was our third year. Some activities have remained, and new ones have been added, but each time we have come away after a fun day out, soaking up the incredible feeling of fall being in the air and fun being the only thing on the agenda.

Where Is It?

The Corn Maze at Burden is held at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens in Baton Rouge. The setting is scenic, with the flowers and plants as a backdrop. The farm fall feeling is there in abundance. So if you are looking for a day of fall fun, this is the perfect spot for it in the city.

What Is There To Do At The Corn Maze at Burden

Cornmaze
Parents will appreciate that this Cornmaze is not the longest or most difficult and the patchy spots are perfect for both big and little kids. The characters that are spotted along the way add to the fun.
Spook-tactular Playground
The spider web is back and just as much fun for kids of all ages. Being low to the ground makes it so easy for the little ones to climb on. You may spot a green dragon made of painted tires to climb on and there are two closed slides near the entrance.
Petting Zoo
Animal lovers unite! Bring a couple of dollar notes to buy some food as you enter the area and let your kids feed and pet the goats, cows, and Llamas. A hand washing station is there for your convenience once the kids have had their fill of fun.
Hay Mountain
Climb to the top of a hay mountain and take a photo with the American flag at the top!
Hay Ride
This is my favorite! The hay ride stops for you to hop off and pick satsumas. You can ride or walk a short distance back. Watching the kids pick and eat the juicy satsumas fresh off the trees is priceless. Sunflowers are weather dependent.
Corn Crib – This could be an activity to keep my kids busy for the entire two hours! It’s huge and such sensory fun… lots of digging, jumping, and crawling to be done. Do yourself a favor and dig your feet in too!
Temporary Tattoo Parlor
Let the kids put a tattoo on by themselves!
Picnic area with local food vendors
Freshly popped corn, gelato, or snowballs with drinks and water for sale to quench thirst and curb hunger.
Pumpkin Patch
Choose your perfect pumpkin to take home and decorate and take a photo at the adorable photo op station.

What To Know Before You Go

Offered every Saturday of the month of October in 2-hour time slots
Morning 9-11am, Midday Noon-2pm, Afternoon 2.30- 4.30pm, Night maze on 29 October only at 6-9pm
Buy a $15 ticket per person and free for children 2 and under here: https://lsuagcenterbg.ticketspice.com/corn-maze
Make a toilet stop at the Burden Museum and Gardens Visitor Information office before entering to park.
No pets allowed.
Bring a few dollars in cash for a snack, or some feed for the petting zoo.
Wear comfortable shoes which you don’t mind getting dirty.
Pack water, sunscreen, and hats.

Roz is a wife and mother of two, who loves traveling and experiencing life to the fullest. Raised in Southern Africa, she has lived in the UK, Thailand, and now the USA. She enjoys camping with her family, exploring new places, and sitting by a campfire. When she is not working, you will find her shouting for her kids on the soccer field, jogging with loud music in her ears, or creating art with her kids.

2022 Baton Rouge Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Guide

September 7, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Who’s ready for a taste of cooler days, pumpkins, cute costumes, and a few fun fall events??? We all are!! Check back often as we continue to update our Baton Rouge Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Guide with more deets as new information comes our way. Don’t miss our favorite spots in Baton Rouge and beyond to find your perfect pumpkin, create some fall family memories, and take a hayride or two.

This post will be updated as new events are listed; check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun!

While every effort has been made to ensure this information is accurate, we encourage you to contact the patch directly to verify that all details are correct and have not changed. Please let us know if you have information on a Pumpkin Patch or corn maze that we missed!

2022 Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze Guide

AgCenter Botanic Gardens Corn Maze

Corn Maze Saturday

A 2-HOUR Corn Maze experience will allow you to traverse the maze, meander through the sunflower fields, ride a hayride and pick satsumas with the ones you love. Other activities include climbing the hay mountain, petting farm with Goula Paradise Farm, make your way through the mini hay maze, take a pic’ and pick-a-pumpkin in the pumpkin patch, and more!

WHEN:
October 8, 15, 22, 29

WHERE:
Burden Museum & Gardens 4560 Essen Lane

SESSION TIMES:
Morning | 9 – 11 a.m.
Midday | Noon – 2 p.m.
Afternoon | 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.

ADMISSION:
$15 per person and free for children two and younger. This year’s tickets are pre-sale only and will not be offered at the gate. All ages must have a ticket to enter. Tickets are limited.

Visit the Botanic Gardens website for ticketing and more info: https://bit.ly/CornMazeatBurden

Jefferson United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch

Family fun in a safe environment. The Pumpkin Patch is the largest mission project at JUMC – there will also be photos ops for the family. All net proceeds are distributed to local missions, plus help fund the youth mission trip. Last year they were able to donate thousands of dollars – all because of the volunteers willing to work the patch. Plus, with the Kick-Off event, new people can experience JUMC.

WHEN:
First week in October

WHERE:
10328 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 Back of Lot.

SESSION TIMES:
TBA

ADMISSION:
Free – pay for your pumpkin

Pop-up Pink Pumpkin Patch at Baton Rouge General

The pop-up pink pumpkin patch is coming! Visit Baton Rouge General Medical Center to get your free pumpkin – one per person – while pumpkins last! Two locations this year… and be sure to get your #Protectyourpumpkins T-shirt!!

WHEN:
Always a surprise pop up in October

WHERE:
Mid City Campus 3600 Florida Blvd. and Bluebonnet Campus 8585 Picardy Ave.

ADMISSION:
Entry and pumpkins are free. “Protect your pumpkins” T-shirts will be available for purchase. Proceeds go toward Pennington Cancer Center.

Walker Pumpkin Patch

The City of Walker is proud to announce the opening of their Pumpkin Patch on Monday, September 26th at 3:00pm in conjunction with the City of Walker Fall Festival. Over 1800 pumpkins in unique shapes, sizes, and colors will be available for purchase with proceeds dedicated to the Walker Challenger’s Program.

WHEN:
Monday – Friday: 3pm to 8pm
Saturday: 10am to 6pm
Sunday: 12pm to 6pm

WHERE:
Sidney Hutchinson Park in the Challenger’s Field area.
13750 Ball Park Rd, Walker, LA 70785

ADMISSION:
Free – pay for your pumpkin

For more information please call 225-665-3755 or email: parksandrecinfo@walker-la.gov.

Hallow Jack’s Pumpkin Patch

Opening Date TBA!!! It is located off of Magnolia Beach in Denham and is the perfect spot for a fall photo backdrop. It’s not a pumpkin patch per se, but it’s everything you want in a “pumpkin patch.” Adorable photo ops, excellent quality in fancy pumpkins, carving tools, seasonal flowers, festive T-shirts, and fall decor.

WHEN:
October

WHERE:
6834 Magnolia Bridge Road Denham Springs, LA 70726

ADMISSION:
Free – pay for your pumpkin

Ascension Parish

NewSong Church Pumpkin Patch

The NewSong On Old Perkins Road Community Church pumpkin patch, at the corner of Old Perkins and Bluff Road in Prairieville, will be open September 26th.

Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, as well as various types of gourds from the Navajo Tribe in Northern New Mexico, will be available for purchase.

Jellies and salsas from the United Methodist Children’s Home will be for sale.

There will be a photo booth and other photo opportunities around the patch (no paid photography!).

Free hayrides are available on the weekends.

Morning field trips for area schools include storytime, hayrides, crafts, and pie-sized pumpkins. All proceeds go to church missions.

NewSong will also host a FREE Fall Festival on Saturday, October 30th, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Live music, hayrides, delicious food, face painting, inflatables, games, crafts, learn more: https://bit.ly/NewSongPumpkinPatch

WHEN:
September 26th through Saturday, October 31st.

WHERE:
18465 Old Perkins Rd, Prairieville, LA 70769

SESSION TIMES:
Monday – Friday 9am – 6 pm
Saturdays – 9am – 6pm
Sundays – 2pm – 6pm

ADMISSION:
Free – pay for your pumpkin

Livingston Parish

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin and Strawberry Patch

Pick a Pumpkin from the field – Activities include zipline, Jumping Pillow, Tunnel Slide, Face Painting, Duck Racing, Pedal Tractors, See Cotton, Growing, Hay Maze Milk a Cow Roll Down the Hill Catch Mrs. Heather telling how pumpkins grow Merry go round Play Horse Shoes Nature Trail Lots of places to take pictures Weigh & Measure your pumpkin, Bring a Picnic Lunch, Paint a pumpkin (weekends only)

WHEN:

September 24 – November 6

WHERE:

31458 La 43 Hwy, Albany, LA 70711. Phone: 225-567-3493

SESSION TIMES:
Daily 9:00am – 5:00pm

ADMISSION:
Kids (newborn & up): $9 per child Adults: Free – Cash Only

Faith Crossing UMC Pumpkin Patch

Join Faith Crossing for a budget-friendly Fall Family Fall Fest on Saturday, October 5th, designed to help you and your loved ones disconnect from devices and reconnect with one another – Free KidZone with lots to entertain, food/snacks, Craft Show with 20+ vendors showcasing crafts, baked goods, home decor, fun gifts and more! Pumpkin Patch is for a limited time only starting 10/5 and runs until they are out of pumpkins. Budget-friendly pricing and great photo ops!

WHEN:
October 5th until pumpkins run out.

WHERE:
34260 Walker Rd. N.
Walker, LA 70785

SESSION TIMES:
TBA

ADMISSION:
Free – pay for your pumpkin

East Feliciana Parish

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

Barn Hill Preserve’s pumpkin patch will be going on every weekend in October! Guests will participate in fun Fall related activities and get to experience the beauty of the preserve. They will have activities ranging from animal shows, hayrides, face painting, and mini animal encounters to picking pumpkins out of the patch.

Tour zoological park

Petting Zoo

Kangaroo Walkabout

Fall Games

Free small pumpkin from the patch

Tractor Rides

Face Painting

DINOSAUR Shows

WHEN:
Every Saturday/Sunday from September 24th- October 30th

WHERE:
Barn Hill Preserve 11342 LA-955, Ethel, LA 70730 – 225-286-3003

SESSION TIMES:
Saturday’s & Sunday’s 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

ADMISSION:
TBA

St. Helena Parish

Cajun Country Corn – CLOSED FOR THE 2022 SEASON

Cajun Country Corn has been farming food and fiber for over 30 years. They started their corn maze in 2000 and have been doing it ever since. In addition to the regular maze, they open up a portion of the maze on Friday and Saturday nights for haunting. Other spooky attractions include the haunted trail, board maze, and zombie paintball. You can also enjoy the pumpkin blaster, corn cannon, and other farm attractions while you are there. Pine Grove, LA – 7 Acres
Haunted Nights in October

WHEN: CLOSED FOR THE 2022 SEASON

WHERE: The maze is located 1 mile east of 42360 (Napa Auto) in Pine Grove and five miles west of 35999 (Bear Creek Western Store) in Montpelier, LA

SESSION TIMES:

ADMISSION: Closed for the 2022 season

Beauregard Parish

CM Farms

Pumpkins, 40+ attractions, a 12-acre maze, farm animals and so much more are awaiting your visit! Includes a corn maze, jumping pillow, photo ops, animal barrel train, wagon rides, dirt mountain slide, animal barn, tasty eats, and rubber duck races. CM Farms has something special planned for each weekend.

WHEN: October 1 – November 20, 2022

WHERE: 252 CM Farms Road, Dry Creek, LA 70637 (337) 328-8916 – About 2.5 hours from Baton Rouge

SESSION TIMES:
Saturdays in October 10 am-7 pm
Saturdays in November 10 am-5 pm
Sundays 12-5 pm

ADMISSION: Ages 3+ $18.95

Baton Rouge Family Fun will always bring you the best in Family Friendly events in Baton Rouge and beyond. This post will be updated as new events are listed; check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun!

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch: Know Before You Go

September 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Fall is in the air, and if your family is ready for some Pumpkin Patch fun, the Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch / Prehistoric Pumpkin Patch is one you won’t want to miss. Barn Hill Preserve’s annual Pumpkin Patch has quickly become a fall family tradition. The addition of the “Prehistoric Dinasour Pumpkin Patch” makes it a must-do for our tiniest Palaeontologists.

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

Here’s an overview of a previous trip and what to know before you go:

Entry is $17 per person, and there is so much to do that I felt the price was justified. The ticket price includes one small pumpkin picked from the pumpkin patch. In addition, there were animal encounters, a corn pit, pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, hayrides, corn maze, archery, games, a kangaroo walkabout, and many other activities.

Add-on encounters with a two-toed sloth, spectacled owl, and anteater are not included in the door price.

We arrived around 10:30 am, and it only took us about 15 minutes to park and pay. There was a bit of a line, but it moved pretty efficiently. Upon getting to the front, I was pleasantly surprised to find they take both cash and card options, as I could not get a firm answer to this question on their website or social media before arriving.

We started the day by practicing our archery, then enjoyed zoo-like enclosures featuring a lynx and a pair of very friendly otters. After that, we found our way to the Kangaroo Walkabout, which we unanimously agreed was the highlight of our trip. Kids and adults alike delighted in getting up close with baby goats, kangaroos, and even a giraffe!

We even fed the baby goats, which was such a sweet experience.

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

We then walked down a rocky path to the actual pumpkin patch, which had its ups and downs. From afar, it was beautiful. Between the stunningly perfect weather providing a cloudless blue sky, to the lovely bright greens and oranges of the pumpkins, it made for gorgeous photos. However, it’s Louisiana, so we were sidestepping large ant piles. That said, everyone found their perfect pumpkin. There were picnic tables set up where we could have painted them; the thought of even semi-wet paint entering my vehicle was enough for me to veto that activity.

Eating at Barn Hill Preserve

On-site food options are limited, but the preserve does permit outside food and drink. We weren’t sure what to expect, so we brought a picnic lunch. It was perfect, and there were multiple options for seating. If picnics aren’t your jam, they offer hamburgers and cheeseburgers for $5 each. There was also a mobile bar on site serving coffee, tea, soft drinks, mocktails, and a selection of sweet treats.

Navigating Barn Hill Preserve

There were a few things I didn’t love, like the only bathrooms being two portapotties at the entrance. I don’t know about your kids, but mine are horrified by the things which caused us to make an early departure. Also, there wasn’t any direction as to where to find things, like the animal show we got lucky and stumbled upon or the corn maze we never did locate. A map or signage would have been hugely helpful. More and more people arrived as the day went by, so I suggest arriving first thing on a Sunday morning to avoid the bigger crowd.

My family had a great time at Barn Hill Preserve’s pumpkin patch! Our highlights were the Kangaroo Walkabout, the otters, and all the great photo ops. I’m looking forward to going again next year and having an even better time now that we have this experience under our belts! If you’ve been before, what advice would you give families planning to go for the first time? Join the conversation on our Facebook page.

Christy is a Northshore native who, in 2018, was dragged kicking and screaming to Denham Springs. After a short adjustment period, she’s learned to love her new home and enjoys exploring all the Baton Rouge area has to offer. A working mother of two, she balances her free time between hanging out with her family, writing, and baking for her home business, The Little Things Cakes.

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Barn Hill Preserve Dinosaurs – Prehistoric Pumpkin Patch

Summer Travel Safety Tips – Ask the Expert

July 8, 2022 by Guest Contributor

“Ask the Experts” is a series on Baton Rouge Family Fun where local experts share their thoughts, opinions and answer questions relating to health, wellness, parenting and living in Baton Rouge. This week on Ask the Experts, Smith Shanklin Sosa, fellow Baton Rouge parents, are sharing a few Summer Travel Safety Tips.

Summer and road trips go together like peas and carrots. Traveling during these high traffic times can be dangerous and it is important to be extra cautious when sharing the road with large trucks and buses. Even though truck drivers are well aware of the dangers their vehicles present to other passenger vehicles, I can guarantee that this mama is not going to trust my family’s safety to another driver. As a personal injury attorney, I have seen beautiful vacations turn tragic on highways and interstates. Follow my top 3 Summer Travel Safety Tips and put your family and yourself in a better position to avoid tragic accidents.

Summer Travel Safety Tips

Be Aware of the “No Go Zones”

Large trucks and buses have huge blind spots as shown in the below photo. It is best to spend as little time as possible in these “No Go Zones”. If you have a feeling that the driver of a large truck or bus does not see you, make some noise and honk that horn. I know that horns can make you feel like your yelling at the other drivers on the road, but I personally have avoided my fair share of accidents by letting my horn rip.

Safe Passing

Make sure you can see the driver in the vehicle mirror. If you do not see the driver, it is best to assume he/she cannot see you. When passing a truck or bus, make sure the truck or bus is visible in your rearview mirror before you pull in front giving extra space. If possible, it is a good idea to avoid passing trucks and buses when you are traveling downhill. These big trucks and buses take longer to stop and you do not want to be on the receiving end of their failure to slow down.

Avoid Wide Turns

Buses and trucks make wide turns. Be aware that these trucks usually have around a 55-foot turning radius. A lot of times truck/bus drivers will swing wide to accommodate this turning radius and you want to avoid them swinging into your vehicle.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to share BRM’s experiences with food, fitness, health, and life as well as opinions from some of our local experts. This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. When it comes to your health or the health of your child, please be sure to contact your physician.

Dry Drowning 101: Know the Signs with Dr. Mindy Calandro – Ask the Experts

June 13, 2022 by Dr. Mindy Calandro

As if the idea of drowning didn’t strike enough fear into the heart of every parent, recent news headlines and social media posts have brought a new term to the forefront… dry drowning. You might be thinking, “Well of course my kiddo has had a cough a time or two after their face inadvertently went into the water. Is this something to worry about?” Here is what parents need to know about so-called “dry drowning.”

What is dry drowning?

To get scientific, there are actually two entities here:

Dry drowning– This occurs when a small amount of water gets into the nose or mouth, and this water causes a sudden spasm of the airway where it shuts close. It is almost like the airway is “overprotecting” itself from the water that isn’t supposed to be there. With dry drowning, there is no water in the lungs. In these cases, you will see symptoms almost immediately after the water gets into the airway (the airway will not spasm if the water isn’t there).

Delayed or Secondary drowning– In delayed drowning, a child inhales a bit of water through their nose or mouth, and the water actually does make it down into their lungs. Once in the lungs, the water begins to cause significant irritation and inflammation (after all, water is not supposed to be in our lungs) which leads to something called pulmonary edema. This can occur anywhere from 1-24 hours after the initial inhaling of the water.

You can see that while these two terms mean something different from a medical standpoint, the term “dry drowning” is often used in the news headlines and on social media to refer to secondary drowning.

How common do these types of submersion injuries occur?

Good news…these are both UNcommon! It is estimated that either dry or secondary drowning probably accounts for only 1-2% of all drowning-related injuries in children. Think about all the times your child has inhaled a bit of water while in the bathtub or the pool, and the vast majority of the time, they are a-ok.

What are the symptoms?

Good news again…dry and secondary drowning do not occur without warning signs. When it comes to dry drowning, the symptoms will often be sudden in onset, and remember, they will occur at the time of the incident (like while they are still standing in the pool water). Children will have immediate coughing that doesn’t resolve and sudden difficulty breathing.

Now, with secondary drowning, the symptoms usually do not start immediately after they inhaled the water. It takes time for the inflammation to begin in the lungs. Rather kiddos will start with coughing, trouble breathing, faster breathing, fever, vomiting, extreme sleepiness or a drastic change in behavior anywhere from 1-24 hours later.

What should parents do if they suspect dry or secondary drowning?

If your child has been swimming and in the hours following a swim they show any of the above signs, they need to be brought to medical attention immediately. These symptoms certainly might end up being just the start of a circulating summer virus, but it is important to make sure that it is not secondary drowning. Often a good physical exam by your child’s doctor as well as checking of vital signs including their oxygen levels and sometimes even a chest x-ray can help to ensure that their lungs do not have fluid that shouldn’t be there.

And a quick reminder here as well…anytime a child has required a pool rescue of any kind, at a minimum, there needs to be a call to your child’s pediatrician. Depending on how long the child was under water, many of these kiddos also need to be evaluated by a medical professional.

How can you prevent dry or secondary drowning?

Both of these entities really fall on the spectrum of drowning-related injuries, and the best way to prevent any kind of drowning is constant adult supervision while swimming. I have written before about drowning prevention (you can click here to check out that blog post), but close attention to a child while they are in the water and vigilance for new onset of symptoms after a swim are key. And again remember, these dry or secondary drownings are NOT common.

So hopefully now that you understand these frightening terms of dry or secondary drowning, you will breathe a sigh of relief knowing that this does not happen commonly. Kiddos will be kiddos playing in the water which often means an inadvertent inward sniff while in the water. Let them continue to play, of course under an adult’s watchful eye, and if something doesn’t seem right after pool time is done, then you know the next step. Happy summer!

“Ask the Experts” is a series on Baton Rouge Family Fun where local experts share their thoughts, and opinions and answer questions relating to health, wellness, parenting, and living in Baton Rouge.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to share BRM moms’ experiences with food, fitness, health and life as well as opinions from some of our local experts. This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. When it comes to your health or the health of your child, please be sure to contact your physician.

EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM

June 1, 2022 by Tiany Davis

The long awaited summer months are finally here, and while fun in the sun is top of mind for us all, we’re also thinking about how we can help encourage students to keep reading over the summer.

Make plans to join in the fun during the 2022 EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM. The East Baton Rouge Parish Library hosts reading challenges for babies, kids, teens, and adults.

EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Dive right in with the 2022 Summer Reading Program, Oceans of Possibilities! Beginning Wednesday, June 1, and running through Monday, August 15, enjoy an entire summer of FREE programs, workshops, storytimes, concerts and performances for all ages, scheduled throughout the library system.

Track your reading and earn rewards! It’s easy! First, sign up at your local Library location or online at ebrpl.beanstack.org or at your Library to start logging your reading to earn virtual badges; completion rewards from California Pizza Kitchen, Raising Canes, Barnes and Noble, All-Star Bowling and much more; and to be entered into weekly drawings for prizes from Nothing Bundt Cakes, Celebration Station, Victoria’s Toy Station, and many others! It’s going to be a whale of a time!

Li’l Ones Program – Ages 0 – 5

The Li’l Ones Program is for ages 0 to 5. To complete this challenge, children need to listen to or read at least 10 books. Once a child has completed 10 books, see a library staff member to collect completion incentives, while supplies last. For every 5 books completed, they earn an entry (up to 5 entries total) into a drawing for a chance to win a special incentive.

Young Readers – Ages 5-11

The Young Readers Program is for ages 5-11. To complete this challenge, children need to read for at least 300 minutes. Once a child reads for at least 300 minutes, see a library staff member to collect completion incentives, while supplies last. For every 100 minutes read, they earn an entry (up to 5 entries total) into a drawing for a chance to win a special incentive.

Teens – Grades 6 to 12

The teen challenge is for grades 6 to 12. Completion requires at least 10.5 hours of reading (21 sessions of 30 minutes). There are 7 virtual activity badges, and teens can gain 22 entries into the weekly drawings.

Baton Rouge Adults – 18 and Up

The Adult Challenge is open to ages 18 and up. Adults must read at least 3 books to complete the challenge, but you can also keep reading and earn up to 27 virtual activity badges and 3 entries into summer drawings!

EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM- Entertainment

The Little Mermaid – Petite Princess Company

The Little Mermaid from the Petite Princess Company will be splashing into libraries this summer to celebrate the 2022 Summer Reading Program, Oceans of Possibilities. The Little Mermaid will be sharing stories with us as well as some ocean education, fun with shells and bubbles, sea creature identification, photo ops, and more! Ages 3 and up. Group registration is required.

Eden Park, Monday, June 6, 2:30 p.m.
Main Library, Wednesday, June 8, 2:30 p.m. River Center, Wednesday, June 15, 10 a.m. Pride, Monday, June 20, 2:30 p.m.
Zachary, Wednesday, June 22, 10 a.m.
Baker, Thursday, June 23, 10 a.m.
Greenwell Springs, Wednesday, July 6, 2:30 p.m.

Harvey Rabbit and Friends

Join Harvey Rabbit, Cecil the Orangutan, Miss Laura, and Mr. Tim as they bring fun and mayhem to the library with ventriloquism, puppetry, music, magic, and comedy! It just wouldn’t be summer without this gang’s energy and entertainment!

May 31, 2022

Main Library, Tuesday, May 31, 10 a.m. Greenwell Springs, Wednesday, June 1, 10 a.m. Central, Wednesday, June 1, 2:30 p.m. River Center, Thursday, June 2, 10 a.m. Delmont Gardens, Thursday, June 2, 2:30 p.m. Baker, Monday, June 13, 10 a.m., Zachary, Monday, June 13, 2:30 p.m.

Baton Rouge Astronomical Society

Fairwood, Thursday, June 16, 10 a.m. Jones Creek, Thursday, June 16, 2:30 p.m. Pride-Chaneyville, Friday, June 17, 10 a.m. Eden Park, Monday, June 20, 10 a.m. Bluebonnet, Monday, June 20, 2:30 p.m. Scotlandville, Monday, July 11, 10 a.m. Carver, Monday, July 11, 2:30 p.m.

Join the Astronomical Society for another spaced out program! They return this summer with a great presentation filled with fun, learning, and things to see and do that are out of this world! Ages 8 -11. Registration is required. To register, call the library branch directly.

Pride-Chaneyville Branch, Wednesday, June 1, 2 p.m. Greenwell Springs Regional Branch, Monday, June 13, 2 p.m. Bluebonnet Regional Branch, Thursday, June 16, 2 p.m. Jones Creek Regional Branch, Thursday, July 7, 2 p.m.
Main Library at Goodwood, Thursday, July 28, 2 p.m.

Wink Danenberg – Juggler Extraordinaire!

Baker, Monday, June 27, 2:30 p.m.
Zachary, Tuesday, June 28, 10 a.m.
Pride, Tuesday, June 28, 2:30 p.m.
Delmont Gardens, Wednesday, June 29, 10 a.m. Scotlandville, Wednesday, June 29, 2:30 p.m. Main Library, Thursday, June 30, 10 a.m. Bluebonnet, Thursday, June 30, 2:30 p.m.

Comedy! Entertainment! Juggling! Juggler extraordinaire, Wink Danenberg, will be here to amaze us with his talented juggling! You may even find yourself being part of the show! Wink has been entertaining children of all ages for over 20 years with his juggling and comedy. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Group registration is required.

Zachary, Thursday, June 16, 10 a.m. Jones Creek, Friday, July 15, 10 a.m. Baker, Wednesday, July 13, 10 a.m. Main Library, Thursday, July 21, 10 a.m

Find all the program listings in the Event Calendar.

Summer Reading Virtual Programming

Checkers Library TV – Deep Sea Readers

Join Checkers as he explores the globe! Checkers and his sidekick, Robot, will introduce us to a new animal each week, and each episode will feature arts and crafts, interviews with animal experts, animal book recommendations and reviews, and much more! You can access these awesome fun videos Monday, June 6 – Friday, July 29 through the Beanstack Summer Reading Virtual Programming Challenge at ebrpl.beanstack.org and on our EBRPL/Kids Facebook page.

Page Turner Adventures – Ocean Adventures

20,000 Books Under the Sea! Viewers are transformed into Storyologists when they join Page Turner and Kenny on an epic, interactive quest to discover the Lost Library of Atlantis. Along the way, they will explore Coral Reefs, The Bermuda Triangle, Arctic Waters, and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Filled with fascinating facts and fabulous fiction, this adventure is designed to educate kids about our oceans while inspiring them to read books AND visit the library! Each week includes crafts, shows, guest performers, and more! Don’t miss out on the fun! You can access this fun lineup of programs from Monday, June 6 – Friday, July 15 by going to our Beanstack Summer Reading Virtual Programming Challenge at ebrpl.beanstack.org or by visiting our EBRPL/Kids Facebook page to access the Web Portal.

West Baton Rouge Library Summer Reading Program

Ascension Parish Library Summer Reading Program

There’s something for all ages! Plus, check out the library’s lineup of summer events and entertaining presenters. Discover a new activity, dive into a new book, and support lifelong learning with APL! Get your printable calendar now.

Registration begins on Tuesday, May 24. You can register online at myAPL.beanstack.org or by using the Beanstack app. All participation must be logged online by Sunday, July 31, to be redeemed for prizes.

Rockin’ at the Swamp – BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

March 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Rocks, crystals, and gemstones, oh my! Rockin’ at the Swamp has been a family favorite for years. Our boys enjoyed going year after year. In previous years we enjoyed the different learning stations, playing games, rock climbing, digging for shark teeth, and playing with the giant stones!

Photos from previous Rockin’ at the Swamp events.

Rockin’ at the Swamp

If you like nature’s earthly treasures, this event will rock your world!;) Join BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center to explore the world of rocks, minerals, gemstones, and fossils. Add to your rock collection or find some unique gift items at the Rockhound Market. Try your skill scaling the rock climbing wall. Learn to identify different rocks and minerals and make your own take-home identification card on the Treasure Trail. Experience the excitement of the gold rush while hunting for iron pyrite in our Gold Mine. Try out some rockin’ crafts or paint your own Rock Animal in the craft corner. Explore ancient life forms in the Fossil Quarry. This is one rockin’ day of fun highlighting geology and earth science.

Food and beverage purchases are available from on-site vendors.

Date: March 15
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Adult/$5 Child/$4

For More Information
225-757-8905
sguidry@brec.org

Geaux Fish Catfish Rodeo

February 15, 2022 by Tiany Davis

Grab your fishing pole and head out with the family to GEAUX Fish! BREC’s Geaux Fish Catfish Rodeo is an excellent opportunity to introduce new anglers to the sport of fishing or for the old veteran to test their skills.

They will be stocking the pond with adult channel catfish to ensure you have plenty to catch and prizes galore. Don’t miss this chance to bring home channel catfish for dinner and spend the day outside with the family. This event is weather-dependent. Early registration is encouraged to guarantee a spot.

Geaux Fish Catfish Rodeo

Date: March 5
Time: 7:30 a.m. – noon
Location: Howell Community Park

Prizes will be awarded based on age group, number of fish caught, and size of fish. Open to all ages and skill levels.

Fishing equipment is not provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their rod and reel, bait, and an ice chest to easily store and transport their fish.

Participants 16 and older are required by state law to have a Basic Fishing License to fish recreationally in Louisiana waters., which can be purchased at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

For More Information: 225-218-4979
conservation@brec.org

BREC Art – Saturday Morning Studio

February 1, 2022 by Tiany Davis

Saturday mornings are full of artsy fun. This spring Saturday Morning Studio is meeting new cultures, seeing America, visiting Europe, and writing poetry! Each month BREC Art will treat students to a new art experience with history and an emphasis on culture and fun!

BREC Art – Saturday Morning Studio

WHERE: Milton J. Womack Park
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.-noon

Feb. 19 – Hometown America
Following the wonderful work of Mattie Lou O’Kelley (1908-1997) students will draw and paint a primitive art landscape.

March 19 – Shel Silverstein
Shel Silverstein urged his readers to catch the moon or invite a dinosaur to dinner—to have FUN! In this class students will hear and discuss Mr. Silverstein’s work and then write a few, fun, imaginative poems of their own!

April 9 – Gnome Home
Inspired by German garden statues, students will love using their imaginations to create a toadstool home that is perfect for a little gnome. Flap door and gnome included!

May 14 – Fish and Chips (rescheduled from original date in January)
Join us chaps for a morning of Fish and Chips! Students will use mixed media to create a fun take on the British favorite. Cheerio!

Ages:8-12

Cost

$10/class per EBR resident; $12/non-EBR resident

For More Information

225-281-9509
Robin.mcandrew@brec.org

Baton Rouge Zoolights

Baton Rouge Zoolights displays will include the following:

Corn Maze at Burden

Where Is It?

What Is There To Do At The Corn Maze at Burden

What To Know Before You Go

2022 Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze Guide

Corn Maze Saturday

Pop-up Pink Pumpkin Patch at Baton Rouge General

Ascension Parish

Livingston Parish

East Feliciana Parish

St. Helena Parish

Beauregard Parish

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

Here’s an overview of a previous trip and what to know before you go:

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

Eating at Barn Hill Preserve

Navigating Barn Hill Preserve

You might also like the following post: Barn Hill Preserve Dinosaurs – Prehistoric Pumpkin Patch

Summer Travel Safety Tips

What is dry drowning?

How common do these types of submersion injuries occur?

What are the symptoms?

What should parents do if they suspect dry or secondary drowning?

How can you prevent dry or secondary drowning?

EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Li’l Ones Program – Ages 0 – 5

Young Readers – Ages 5-11

Teens – Grades 6 to 12

Baton Rouge Adults – 18 and Up

EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM- Entertainment

The Little Mermaid – Petite Princess Company

Harvey Rabbit and Friends

Baton Rouge Astronomical Society

Wink Danenberg – Juggler Extraordinaire!

Find all the program listings in the Event Calendar.

Summer Reading Virtual Programming

Checkers Library TV – Deep Sea Readers

Page Turner Adventures – Ocean Adventures

More 2022 Summer Reading Programs

Rockin’ at the Swamp

Date: March 15 Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost: Adult/$5 Child/$4

For More Information 225-757-8905 sguidry@brec.org

Date: March 5 Time: 7:30 a.m. – noon Location: Howell Community Park

BREC Art – Saturday Morning Studio

You might also like the following post:
Barn Hill Preserve Dinosaurs – Prehistoric Pumpkin Patch

Date: March 15
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Adult/$5 Child/$4

For More Information
225-757-8905
sguidry@brec.org

Date: March 5
Time: 7:30 a.m. – noon
Location: Howell Community Park