HOWARD COUNTY
In addition to exercise and creative programs, Howard County’s winter programs for the under-4 set includes Sesame Street-themed cooking classes for parents and kids age 2, “Bollywood” dancing with mom (that’s the lively dancing in movies made in India, with the choreography and hand motions telling a story), and language lessons for little ones and their parents in French, Spanish, and Chinese. Catalog with dates, times, locations, and costs at www.hcrpsports.com; 410-313-4700.
Definitely head for the Robinson Nature Center in Columbia. The new facility has a huge children’s discovery area filled with big bins crammed with toys and touchables, like a beaver pelt in the beaver dam display. There’s an interactive, two-story “Life of the Forest” exhibit. Kids can also play dress-up with all sorts of nature animal costumes, including butterflies. For quiet times, there’s a reading and coloring area. Under 3 years old is free; 3-17 $3; adults $5. (www.co.ho.md.us; 410-313-0400. 6692 Cedar Lane, Columbia)
