Free Fun January

Keep your brood from going stir-crazy during the chilly winter months without tapping into the family budget. The metro area has lots of free classes and activities
to appeal to everyone. Your kids can make crafts, meet new friends, and maybe even learn something. Here are just some no-cost options we recommend:

Get Crafty!

American Girl Boutique and Bistro. Take your little girl to American Girl for some giggling, new friends and crafty fun. She can bring her favorite doll, neighbor or just a smile. Activities for ages 8 and older vary by date. Jan. 8, Mirror Craft, 1-3 p.m.; Jan. 10, Spirit Scrunchie Craft, 4-6 p.m.; Jan. 15, Dance Slipper Craft, 1-3 p.m.; Jan. 16, Birdcage Craft, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Jan. 24, Tree House Craft, 4-6 p.m. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 877-247-5223

Bean Head Toys. Help your youngster bring out his inner Warhol with colorful crafts. All ages are welcome to create an art project the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Parents should stay close, however, as smaller children may need assistance. Jan. 4, Homemade Snow Dough; Jan 18, Birdseed Feeders. 3-4 p.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980

Lakeshore Learning Store. Spend a cold January day inside Lakeshore Learning Store. Each Saturday during the month, the store hosts themed crafts and projects for ages 3 and older. Call to find out the craft offered on a specific date. Jan. 7, 14, 21 & 28. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100

Work with Your Hands

Home Depot Kids’ Workshop. Build a cavings shed to store money.Jan. 7. 9 a.m.-noon. homedepot.com

Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics. Come early, supplies are limited. Jan 14, 28. 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Pre-register. lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Learn About Nature!

Sweetwater Creek State Park. Virginia rail, brown thrasher, cerulean warbler… Can your kid name the various birds in your back yard, including the Georgia state bird? For those who enjoy bundling up and inhaling the crisp, cool January air, try the “Intro to Bird Watching Hike.” You’ll learn more about birds, their habitats and organizations dedicated to conservation. Jan. 14. 8-10 a.m. 1750 Mount Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. Free; parking, $5. 770-732-5871  

– Alexi Wilbourn