Kids, etc.

Big Fun for Little Ones

by Jessica Loughery

Runs through Oct. 31, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., $13.95-$16.95, Adventure Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Dr., Camden, N.J., 856-365-3300

By the time your little mates leave this pirate-themed creature fest, they'll have bona fide sea legs. Captain Kidd will share secrets of his treasure map, and those up to the challenge can set out on a scavenger hunt that'll lead to prizes and scary animal exhibits. Watch for the ghost pirate ship, which will appear as if it's barreling through the 550,000-gallon shark tank. All ages.

Runs Oct. 20-29, 5:30-8 p.m., $6, Linvilla Orchards, 137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media, 610-876-7116

Haunted houses aren't for everyone. Instead, let the tykes jump on a tractor that'll cross Linvilla Orchards and visit the house of the "Nice Witch." Back on the farm, kids can warm up with apple cider and marshmallows. Ages 3 to 11.

Tue., Oct. 24, 10-11:30 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m.; Wed., Oct. 25, 1-2:30 p.m., $10-$12, Honey Hollow Environmental Center, 2877 Creamery Rd., Solebury, 215-297-5880

Kids love little stingers, which poses a problem when it comes to allergies. Explore the insects from a safe distance -- no real bees are involved. Environmental educator Stephanie Foster will show off real beekeeping equipment, including hive boxes and suits. Then, she'll talk to the kids about what keeps bees so busy, and help them make bee-themed crafts. Ages 3 to 5.

Sat., Oct. 21 and Sun., Oct. 22, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., $8-$10, Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., 215-299-1000

Whether they're touching the jawbone of a whale, marveling at a stingray or laughing at a waddling duck, mini-Bill Nyes will thrill at a weekend of water-themed activities. Live animal shows are scheduled at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. All ages.

Runs Oct. 21-Nov. 11, $115, Arden Theatre Company, 40 N. Second St., 215-922-1122

Arden Theatre offers an array of Kids Crew classes for theatrically inclined boys and girls, and one of the most popular is the costume design program. Kids start by reading stories and picking out characters they find interesting. With those personality traits in mind, they conceptualize costume designs, while learning the basics of fabric, color, texture and fit. They'll even get a lesson on hand sewing, using thick, super-safe needles. Ages 7 to 11.