Kids, etc.

Big Fun for Little Ones

by Linnay Trail

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This Philly-based fivesome plays all kinds of head-bopping music, from folk to jazz to rock. Expect hand claps, echoes, three-part harmonies and audience participation — the band sometimes requests that everybody put their fingers in their belly buttons and make slurping sounds. With help from sock puppets, these ditties teach lessons about self-esteem, literacy and family values. Ages 12 and under.

Please Touch Museum is opening its doors after hours for a kiddie extravaganza, so grab your sleepyheads for an evening on the town. Admission gets you a full dinner, a clown show, balloons, face-painting, goodie bags and drinks (of the Shirley Temple variety). Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society's Childhood Cancer program. Registration required. Ages 2 to 12.

Stick a costume on your little prince or princess and join Cinderella at this ball. Activities include storytelling, singing, dancing and "royal" crafting. Ages 12 and under.

The Franklin Institute's celebrating National Astronomy Day and Earth Day in one go, complete with green birthday cake. Kids can learn how to live green before rocketing off on a cosmic adventure, featuring hourly Lunar Lander tours, space boot camp demonstrations and presentations on the world's cheapest space suit. Ages 5 and up.

Ringling Bros.' 137th edition stars Bello, a daredevil clown who falls — sometimes literally — for acrobat Erendira Wallenda. And let's not forget the tigers, high-wire walkers and human-cannonball finale. Tykes who show up early can try on circus costumes, learn to juggle and watch an elephant paint. Ages 6 and up.