Free activities for kids planned at Gardens Mall

The Gardens Mall and Imagination Theatre Etc. are teaming up to offer free interactive program

ming for children ages 3 to 10 in July and August. Activities include jump rope, street art and fun with food.

“Big Summer Fun” will be held on four consecutive Wednesdays from July 18 through Aug. 8. Hourlong presentations in the mall’s Grand Court will include interactive demonstrations, followed by hands-on activities for kids.

Presentations include:

■ Chalk One Up for Street Art!

— 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. July 18. Street chalk artist Jennifer Chaparro will create images with chalk

and will teach kids how to make their own creations.

■ Let the Games Begin! — 11

a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Under the guidance of entertainers Janet Marie

and m’Archibald from the Children’s Theatre of Michigan, kids will learn self-esteem and team-building skills through interactive games and physical activities.

■ Play with Your Food! — 11

a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Aug. 1. Chefs at Williams-Sonoma will teach children how to prepare tasty and kidfriendly snacks.

■ Skip a Rope! — 11 a.m. and

1:30 p.m. Aug. 8. The Hurricane Jumpers Competition Jump Rope Team will perform. Kids will be able to try it out afterward.

For more information, visit thegardensmall.com/events.