So glad you clicked on our new Grab & Go Kids Planner!

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 family activities or events for the week.

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.

Look for the kids’ planner each Wednesday, and help us build the planner with your own suggestions and tips—just add them to the comment box. Even if you disagree with our picks, let us know. We want to hear from you!

From arts and crafts, to sledding to animal adventures, we've got you covered for family fun all weekend long. 

 FAMILY BEST BETS OF THE WEEK

• Clay Tech

Where/When: Boys and Girls Club, Friday 6 to 7 p.m.

Why Go: Kids can get their hands dirty (in a good way!), combining art and technology to make their own claymation films. 

Pricing: Free with membership. For information on how to become a member, see the club’s website.

• Sledding

Where/When: Check out Joyce Middle School after school hours and the Woburn Country Club anytime you want!

Why Go: Because kids’ smiles will make you take back all the curse words you emitted while shoveling out your car from this week’s blizzard.

Pricing: Free 

• Ice Skating Lessons

Where/When: Stoneham Arena, Saturday at noon and Sunday at 1 p.m. Advanced session Saturday at 10 a.m. 

Why Go: A great way to burn off energy and tap into your more graceful side… you might have a budding Michelle Kwan or Wayne Gretzky on your hands and not even know it.

Pricing: $10/session. Open to skaters of all ability levels, ages 3-17. 

• Animal Discovery Exhibit

Where/When: Stoneham Zoo, Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Why Go: Check out the new “Animal Encounters” hands-on exhibit and create animal-inspired arts and crafts projects.  

Pricing: Free with the price of admission. For ticket information, check out the zoo’s website.

• Pancake breakfast

Where/When: St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sunday after 8 a.m. mass and 10 a.m. mass

Why Go: Because Chef Boyar-Mom (or Dad) deserves the morning off… what better way to bond than over maple syrup and a short stack (or three)?  

Pricing: Free, open to all.