Send your calendar submissions (a phone contact number MUST be included) to Diane Tierney – email: dtierney@metroland.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 5
5 p.m.: ROMkids Sleepover: Canada – This giant sleep-over is the ultimate backstage museum pas with exclusive after-hours ROM tours and family activities. For children ages 5 years and older. Call 416-586-5797 or visit www.rom.on.ca

SUNDAY, MARCH 7
Music and Truffles! Children’s Concert Series – Great interactive music performances featuring top professionals as well as brilliant young artists presented to families at Walter Hall, University of Toronto. For ages five and up. Includes a chocolate truffle. Visit www.mooredaleconcerts.com.

The Monster Under the Bed – A hilarious new comedy in which Ben faces some big problems and has meets monster who wants to trade places. For ages 6 and up at Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People. From March 8 to April 1. Call 416-862-2222 or visit www.lktyp.ca.

SATURDAY, MARCH 13
11 a.m.: Max & Ruby: Our Favourite Things – A whimsical, interactive production full of stories, catchy songs, and fun for all - big or small. Max & Ruby are adorable bunny siblings who never, ever, want the same thing. Their plans often collide - with hilarious results at the Music Hall - 147 Danforth Ave. Tickets are $33 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.ca or www.themusichall.ca.

MARCH BREAK (MARCH 15 TO 19)
Blow the Whistle on Bullying! Brandon Street Community Development Foundation and Centerpoint Mall present a weeklong series of activities on bullying. Youth seminars will cover Bullying and Cyber Bullying; for parents, adults, teachers and employers, Workplace Bullying and Facebook 101. (activities running throughout the day) For more information contact 416-366-1399 or email bscdfoffice@gmail.com.

Camp Millionaire – A unique financial literacy program for kids ages 9-14. Through fun-filled games and activities, children learn how money works and start to develop good financial habits. Call 416-562-0140 or visit www.moneysmarts4kids.com.

Casa Loma Family Program – Celebrate March Break at a real castle. Performances, interactive displays and strolling characters provide an exciting getaway in the heart of the city. At Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terrace. Call 416-923-1171 or visit www.casaloma.org

10 a.m. & 2 p.m.: Green Scenes at NFB Mediatheque – A series of hands-on animation workshops for children age 6 to 14 and their parents. Workshops take place twice a day for $5 per child, no cost for parents joining in. Call 4416-973-3012 to reserve a spot.

9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.: Green Scenes Camp – An in-depth animation experience at NFB Mediatheque during a week-long camp for children aged 8 to 14. Particiapnts work in teams to create their own original animated film with a premier at the NFB Cinema. Limited enrolment. Call 416-973-7114 for details.

12 noon - 4:30 p.m.: March Break Family Discovery – Families explore a different theme each day as they tour the historic house. Join us for Maple Monday, Toy Tuesday, Woolly Wednesday, Thready Thursday and Fireside Friday. Experience hands-on activities in the Gibson House Discovery Gallery and make a craft to take home. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Regular admission applies. At Gibson House, 5172 Yonge St. Call 416-395-7432 or visit www.toronto.ca/museums.

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 12:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.: March Break Discovery Camp at Colborne Lodge – Colborne Lodge and the High Park Nature Centre lead crafts, hikes, cooking, and other activities. For ages 6-10. At Colborne Lodge, South End of High Park. Pre-registration is required. Sign up for any or all half-day sessions.Visit www.toronto.ca/museums or call 416-392-6916

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.: March Break Camps at Harbourfront – Children ages 3 to 17 can take part in camps with themes including circus, fashion design, pop star and theatre. Call 416-973-4093 to reserve. For information visit www.harbourfrontcentre.com/camps.

12 noon - 4 p.m.: March Break Mystery – A crime has been committed at Markham Museum and young sleuths 12 and under are invited to help find the culprit. Drop in and follow the clues around the historic site. Call 905-294-4576 for details.

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: March Through Time – Children between the ages of 3 to 12 will love to dress up, march like a soldier, cook in an old-fashioned kitchen, and much more at Fort York. Enjoy all kinds of fun activities related to Fort York and Toronto's history through this drop-in program. Call 416-392-6907.

ROM March Break Camp – Participants discover hidden treasures and natural wonders through hands-on activities and the support of dynamic instructors. For ages 5 to 14. For details visit www.rom.on.ca.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: Spring Fling – March Break fun for the whole family at Rogers Centre. Midway and more. Ticket information to be announced. For the latest event information visit www.rogerscentre.com.

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Pioneer Adventure Day Camp – Outdoor activities are part of the experience at Scarborough Museum where children (ages 6 to 11) will also make 19th century toys, play camp games, make historic crafts and cook on a open hearth. Visit toronto.ca/torontofun or call 338-4FUN (4386) to register.

11 a.m. - 3 p.m.: March Mania in the Valley - Drop in at Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre to explore the historic homes, sample treats, make a craft and learn about life in 19th century Toronto. Weekends, March 13 & 14, March 20 & 21 12 noon to 4 p.m. Call 416-396-2819 for details.

2 p.m.: Spring Break Event at Indigo Books & Music – From Twister to friendship bracelets to making your own Wimpy Kids Journal, activities will take place in-store. All activities are free. At Indigo and Chapters locations throughout Ontario. Contact your local store for details.

TUESDAY, MARCH 16
9:30 -11:30 a.m.: March Break Adventures - Imagine a visit to the Gibson’s farmhouse in the late winter of 1851. Children will enjoy baking delicious treats in the historic kitchen, creating an old-fashioned toy and exploring the life of a child of the 19th century. For ages 5 to 7. Call 416-395-7432 to register or visit www.toronto.ca/museums for information.

MARCH 16 TO 19
1 - 4 p.m.: Time Travel at Mongomery’s Inn – Kids (ages 8 to 11) can cook tasty treats, make creative crafts, play old-fashioned games and enjoy tall tales all in the special atmosphere of the Inn. New theme each day. Call 416-394-8113

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17
9 a.m. - 12 noon: St. Patrick’s Day Celebration – Live entertainment, spring crafts, games and activities. Wear green to the Magna Centre, 800 Mulock Dr. Contact the Town of Newmarket 905-895-5193 or www.newmarket.ca

10:30 a.m. – 12 noon: Children’s Author Visit Chapters-Newmarket – Local author Geeta Bagga brings a playful tale that answers the age-old question, “Where do our favorite socks go?” She’ll read from her book titled “Gracie Meets the Sock Monster” that takes young readers on a quest that will fuel their imagination. Presented at Chapters, Yonge Centre, 17440 Yonge St., Newmarket. Call 905-836-8508.

1 & 4 p.m.: Robert Munsch – Canada's best-selling children's author will entertain and delight all ages with hilarious and engaging readings from some of his best-loved children' books at the Mississauga Living Arts Centre. For tickets call 905-306-6000. Visit www.livingartscentre.ca.

7 p.m.: Cinderella – Presented by Ballet Jorgen at Markham Theatre, this is an innovative take on the classic fairy tale. When Cinderella wins the hand of her prince, her stepsisters find their world turned upside down. Box Office: 905-305-SHOW(7469) or 1-866-768-8801

THURSDAY, MARCH 18
Rec & Tec Skills Championship – Hockey, lacrosse, basketball and video game skills challenge. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. At Magna Centre, 800 Mulock Dr. Contact the Town of Newmarket 905-895-5193 or www.newmarket.ca

SATURDAY, MARCH 20
12 noon: Spring Equinox Labyrinth Walk: Walk to the beat of live medieval music and to the new vigour of spring at Toronto Public Labyrinth, Trinity Square Park, west of the Eaton Centre. For details visit labyrinthnetwork.ca.

2 p.m.: Circus Terrifico – A whimsical and poignant comedy featuring Tchaikovsky’s soaring scores and original music by Canadian composer Ray Luedeke. This kid-friendly show will make you laugh out loud and leave the theatre smiling, Tickets $10.For more information or to reserve tickets call 905-640-2322 or www.townofws.com/nineteen to buy online. Presented at Nineteen on the Park, 19 Civic Avenue, Stouffville.

SUNDAY, MARCH 21
1 p.m.: Welcome Wagon Baby Shower, Brampton – Expectant parents can learn about products and services required to meet the needs of their growing family through displays, demonstrations and educational guest speakers. Door prizes and gift bag. Located at the Century Gardens Recreation Centre, 340 Vodden St. E. For a complimentary invitation call 905- 791-0145 or register at www.welcomewagon.ca

2 p.m.: Fred Penner – Children connect with this multi-talented performer. Penner, a two-time Juno winner for Best Children’s Album will perform at Markham Theatre. Box Office: 905-305-SHOW(7469) or 1-866-768-8801

MARCH 25 - 28
Avenue Road Arts School Teen Exhibit: The first-ever juried teen exhibit is at the Nikola Rukaj Gallery (384 Eglinton Avenue West) from March 25 to 28. The theme for this event is the World Around Me. Contact 416-961-1502, ext. 302.

SATURDAY, MARCH 27
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Free Day at the Dentist – A free program for Toronto toddlers and young children that offers a positive and fun first experience at the dentist. For information about Toddler Day at Dr. Nathan Hass Dentistry, 4256 Bathurst Street, Suite 405, call 416-636-HAAS or visit www.drnathanhaas.com.

10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.: The Shoestring Magic Flute – An introduction for children age 4 to 10 to opera by Shoestring Opera with Mozart's famous story of Allegra and the dark forest. At Solar Stage presentation at The Madison Centre, Yonge and Sheppard. Call 416-368-8031 or visit www.solarstage.on.ca for details.

1:30 & 3:30 p.m.: Spanish Fire! Young People’s Concert – An afternoon of Spanish music and dance with Spanish guitar flamenco and classical Spanish dance with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Call 416-598-3375 or visit www.tso.ca.

2 p.m.: Principal Meany’s Very Bad Day - A free performance of a new comedy for kids (age 6 and up) and adults by Mike McMurtry at the Palmerston Public Library Theatre. Other performance dates with a $10 ticket price on Saturday, April 17, Saturday & Sunday, May 1 & 2. For tickets call 416-539-8437.

2 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.: TVOKids Turn out the Lights - Join the TVOKids Hosts as they premier their new song Turn out the Lights for Earth Hour at the Ontario Science Centre. Mark, Kara and Enviro Girl spread the "Don’t Sit Still" message of healthy eating, healthy lifestyle along with keeping our Earth healthy. Visit www.tvokids.com/dss for more information.

8:30 – 9:30 p.m.: Earth Hour – An annual international event created by World Wildlife Fund that asks households and businesses to turn off their non-essential lights and electrical appliances for one hour to raise awareness towards the need to take action on climate change. Toronto Zoo will be participating by turning off all non-essential lights on the site during this hour.

SUNDAY, MARCH 28
10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.: Sing and Dance with Jack Grunsky – Always a sell-out concert, it’s a fun interactive performance at Solar Stage Theatre, at The Madison Centre, Yonge and Sheppard. Call 416-368-8031 or visit www.solarstage.on.ca for details.

3 - 4:30 p.m.: Rarely Heard Gems – The Mooredale Youth Orchestras play rarely heard gems by a variety of composers at the Rosedale Heights School of the Arts, 711 Bloor Street East (Castle Frank subway). The concert features three levels of orchestras, with players ranging in age from six to 20. Tickets are $15; seniors and students, $10, and are available at the door. For information call 416-587-9411 or visit www.mooredaleconcerts.com.

3 p.m.: Goodnight Moon and The Runaway Bunny – Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia bring the classic bedtime tales alive with innovative black-light staging, whimsical puppets, music and colourful props at the Mississauga Living Arts Centre. For tickets call 905-306-6000. Visit www.livingartscentre.ca.

ONGOING EVENTS
Wanda T. Grimsby, Detective Extraordinaire: Wanda must track down two bizzare and endangered animals before they find each other and create disastrous results. The theatrical production is presented at The Lower Ossington Theatre from March 14 to 17 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Tickets $15. Call 416-915-6747 x 222 or visit wandatgrimsby.eventbrite.com

Bad Dog Theatre Improv Classes: Participants, age 5 to 17, learn the fundamentals of storytelling, create their own characters on stage, and gain the confidence to show off their new-found skills in a showcase at the end of each session. Sessions beginning in March and April. Located at 138 Danforth Ave, Toronto. For details contact 416-491-3115 or email youth@baddogtheatre.com

Cinderella: Stage West presents a family-friendly buffer lunch and show from March 13 to April 10. Tickets are $32.89 per person plus tax for buffet lunch and show available online at www.stagewest.com or the box office at 905-238-0042. Check out the theatre’s March Break Adventure Getaway Package.

Colborne Lodge March Break Drop-in: Tour the historic house and take part in an activity based on early life at Colborne Lodge. Enjoy the expanse of High Park and visit the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground and the Animal Paddocks. From March 13 to 21, 12:30 to 4 p.m. Ages 3 and up. Call 416-392-6916 for details.

Famous People Players Presents Hi-Yo Silver: Famous PEOPLE Players turns back time in its new performance venue, performing an original hit musical production of the story of a little girl with big dreams with appearances by many of the popular celebrity puppets who have graced its stage over 35 years. Tuesday to Saturday, until April 30 at 343 Evans Ave. Etobicoke at 11:30 a.m., 3, 6 and 10 p.m. For tickets call 416-532-1137 or 1-888-453-3385

High School Art Display: High school art teachers submit students’ work for a three- month display. All pieces are judged and winners are awarded prizes. At the Town of Newmarket Municipal Office, 395 Mulock Dr. Subject to change. Till April 30. Contact 905-895-5193 or www.newmarket.ca

March Break at the CN Tower: Take March Break to a higher level at the CN Tower with special admission (save up to 30 per cent), Nickelodeon characters Dora the Explorer* and SpongeBob SquarePants*™, Battle Strikers and more. March 13 to 21. Visit www.cntower.ca for schedule. Open daily 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. Attractions: 11 a.m. – 7 pm.

March Break Hot Spot: Get out of the cold and explore the Toronto Zoo’s tropical pavilions, filled with exotic animals including a new baby gorilla Nassir. Grab a hot chocolate and walk through the new, award-winning Tundra Trek exhibit with Arctic wolves, reindeer and polar bears. Visit www.torontozoo.com for details.

March ‘Musements: Drop in for some Victorian fun at MacKenzie House (82 Bond St.). Typeset your name on the 1845 printing press, make a paper plate mask in the gallery and enjoy a treat in the kitchen. From March 13 to 21. Regular admission applies. Call 416-392-6915 for information. Hours: Mon. to Fri.: 12 noon to 4 p.m., Sat. & Sun.: 12 noon to 5 p.m.

Natrel Rink: Enjoy music and picturesque waterfront surroundings at Canada’s largest artificially cooled outdoor rink. From 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Till March 14. The Natrel Rink provides skate rentals, sharpening, change rooms and locker services. At Harbourfront Centre, Queens Quay W. Visit www.harbourfrontcentre.com or call the rink info line: 416-973-4866.

ROM Saturday Morning Club: Explore ancient civilizations, animals or dinosaurs, create with clay, play Dungeons & Dragons. Programs geared to various ages. From January 9 till March 6 every Saturday. Call 416-586-5797 or visit www.rom.on.ca

Stitching Community: African Canadian Quilts from Southern Ontario: In celebration of Black History Month, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) proudly presents an exhibition that uses quilts made from 1848 to 1976 to explore the role of African Canadian women in reinforcing community ties in new and unfamiliar settings. From January 30 to September 6. The exhibition is comprised of artifacts loaned from the Buxton Museum and items from the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS), including quilts, photographs, tools of the trade, and a variety of black cloth dolls. For more information visit www.rom.on.ca.

Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival: Demonstrations, wagon rides, activities and, of course, pancakes and maple syrup at Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area, Kortright Centre for Conservation. From March 6 to April 11, with special March Break and Easter activities from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For further information, visit www.trcaparks.ca, e-mail info@trca.on.ca or call 416-667-6299.

Too Cool For School Art & Science Fair: A call for submissions to all dreamers and inventors, original thinkers and adventurous tinkerers, mad scientists and misunderstood artists, anyone with an over-active imagination. Entry deadline is March 26. To find out how to participate in this Harbourfront-sponsored event, visit the project website at www.artandsciencefair.ca.