Family events in Canton, MI

FedUp Ministries leads a chef boot camp in the YDL-Michigan Program Room, inviting highly motivated, food-curious kids to build their culinary confidence as part of a summer series. Participants choose the techniques they want to improve, whether that means preparing meals for a group, dicing any vegetable with precision, or transforming basic pantry items into something new and mouth-watering. The focus is on practical skills that encourage exploration, creativity, and skill growth in the kitchen.

This weekly small-group writing program for ages 8 to 14 takes place in the Program Room at YDL-Michigan. With guidance from volunteers in a welcoming setting, participants explore collaborative activities and also dedicate time to individual projects. By the end, each student develops and drafts an original story with publication as the goal.

At YDL-Michigan, The STEAM Scene offers a welcoming space to experiment and learn through changing weekly themes. Hands-on activities invite participants to build with Legos, use educational tools to practice STEAM ideas, try new art techniques, and even meet live animals. This session focuses on exploring natural science. Across the series, topics include computational thinking with a trading card game, music and art through a scientific lens, barbershop computing with clippers, the science of sewing, an introduction to 3D printing, weather phenomena such as tornadoes presented by EMU STEMEd Institute, LEGO SPIKE, and a comics workshop led by local creator Kamron Reynolds that covers character design, faces, backgrounds, lettering, and more. Some multi-day offerings require registration, including Barbershop Computing: Clippers and Physical Computing and the Intro to 3D Printing Miniseries.

An open playdate at YDL-Michigan features materials set out for open play with a different theme each week. Some sessions include special guests who help explore the topic in new ways. This session highlights Cardboard Creations.

A rolling showcase of classic and specialty cars fills the street, creating a lively backdrop for an evening of food and shopping. A DJ keeps the energy high while families enjoy a kids’ hula hoop contest and fun giveaways. With music in the air and plenty to explore, the scene naturally turns into dancing in the streets.

Children can practice reading aloud with a Therapaws-certified dog at YDL-Michigan in Meeting Room 2, building confidence and improving reading skills. Sessions are offered in 10-minute blocks. Registration is required by emailing mitchell@ypsilibrary.org.

Enjoy stories and songs by the water at Rutherford Pool. Take a break from swimming and stop by to listen. Use a Summer Challenge pool pass for pool entry, and ask at a Youth Desk for more information.