Most kiddos are out of school this week and are looking forward to the “lazy days” of summer. Unfortunately, many youngsters take that sentiment to heart and wind up becoming a permanent fixture in front of the TV. Sure, summer is a great time for relaxing, recharging and having fun, but it can also be the perfect opportunity to try something new. There’s no homework or afterschool activities to get in the way of trying a new hobby or interest, and it’s a great way to fill up those extra lazy days with what I like to call productive fun.

Check out this week’s Junior for a few adventures you’re going to love to give a whirl.

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Have you or the kids wanted to learn an instrument but were too intimidated to try? Check out Uke Can Do It, an introductory course on how to play the ukulele at Frisco Public Library this Saturday afternoon. At this fun, one-hour workshop you’ll learn how to tune, strum your ukulele, and three different chords. Then you’ll take your mad ukulele skills and learn to play “Riptide” by Vance Joy. The workshop is open to adults and kids 13 and up and is absolutely free.

Photo: CocoAndré Chocolatier

Budding chefs and chocolate lovers won’t want to miss the Summer Chocolate-Making Class for Kids this Saturday atCocoAndré Chocolatier in Oak Cliff. Chocolatiers Andrea and Cindy will share her chocolate knowledge and guide participants through the class. Kids 5-10 can get creative as they learn to draw and dip with the delicious confection and later make a chocolate mold. Spaces are limited so don’t wait to sign up!

Photo: Nasher Sculpture Center

While you’re out soaking up all that summertime vitamin D this weekend expose the kids to a little culture as well at the Nasher Sculpture Center’s First Saturday event. In addition to learning all about the art in the center’s garden-like setting, kids can also participate in a variety of programming geared especially for them. They can make art with guest artists Mylan Nguyen and Liz Trosper, sketch with Suzuko Davis, and get creative with a project from The Writer’s Garret. Best of all it’s free!

Photo: Flower Mound Parks and Recreation

Every kid should know how to fish. What other past time do you know of that’s so relaxing, yet is still so exciting? Flower Mound Parks and Recreation will help your children reel in the big one at KidFish–fish-tastic event that happens at Flower Mound’s Rheudasil Park Pond this Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The pond will be stocked with more than 500 lbs of catfish just ready for the catching. The event is free for kids ages 16 and younger and prizes and awards will be given in several categories. Rod, reel, and bait are provided, or you can bring your own!

For even more events, explore the Kids & Family section of the Art&Seek calendar.