Grab and Go Kids Planner: A Play, A Race, Earth Day and Itty Bitty Basketball

Where/When: , 360 Kings Village Road,  Wednesday, 7 p.m.

Why Go: It's always good to catch up on our own history and this time around we can learn about it from the students at one of our own schools. See our eighth-graders do their thing.  Your children would benefit from this and so would you and it's a nice mid-week evening out for you and your family. The Scotts Valley eighth-grade students will tell you the story of the Second Continental Congress in this staged reading.

Pricing: Free

Where/When: , 700 Lundy Lane, Thursday, starting this Thursday through May 5, 3:30 p.m.-4:15 p.m. 

Why Go: This is the latest class for Itty Bitty Basketball; starts this Thursday and runs for four weeks. Starting sports this early will help your child develop confidence in sports right from the start.  Your child will learn to dribble, pass and shoot in a recreational setting for learning and for fun. Parents are asked to remain with children. This class is for children aged 3.5 to 6 years old.

Pricing: $60 for residents, $67 for non-residents.

Where/When: , 137 Dakota Ave., Santa Cruz, Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Why Go: You live in Santa Cruz County and this is Santa Cruz County's Earth Day celebration. Lots of great events going on to tell us all why we should think green. And there are numerous kid-friendly events, starting with a concert at 11 a.m. at the main stage with Peter Weiss, the singing scientist. And much, much more. 

Pricing: Free

Where/When: , 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Why Go: Admitted to UC Santa Cruz? Not sure whether to go or go elsewhere? Spring Spotlight is designed specifically for admitted students and their families, to help them find out if UC Santa Cruz is the right fit for them. You get a good look at the school—there's a walking tour and a good overview of what you can expect in terms of academics, residential and student life at UCSC. For more specific details, visit the UCSC website at http://admissions.ucsc.edu/visit/spring-spotlight/index.html

Pricing: Free

Where/When: , 1156 High St., Sunday, 7:30 a.m.

Why Go: This is the race with a view. For you, you can go 5K or 10K (or if your kids are older, they can do this run, too!) and check out the views of the Monterey Bay as you run. For the younger kids, there is the 1K Fun Run. They also get to meet Sammy the Slug, the acclaimed mascot of UCSC. And after the race, stick around for festivities, bring a picnic and enjoy the view.

Pricing: $5 to $20 (to enter race)