Sometimes you just want to take the kids somewhere for that 10-minutes of "me time". This week there are several Ann Arbor events and activities for kids so that mom can get that respite.

On Monday, parents can take kids ages 6-11 to participate in the "Pet Party" at the Chelsea District Library (221 S. Main St., Chelsea) - kids only though, leave the pets at home! The free party starts at 3:30 p.m. and has kids making real cat and dog treats, playing animal games, and slurping out of bowls! To register, call 734-475-8732 or go to the Chelsea District Library website and click on the calendar tab.

If you are in the area of Tree Town Toys (2611 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor) throughout the day Tuesday kids can get their own free color-in tattoo. Just stop by and your child will be able to color in their personalized tattoo that is then applied by a store employee.

Then later that day, Mom, Dad and the kids age 10+ can all attend a free event where families can learn to plant their own easy organic garden. The free event at the Ypsilanti District Library Whittaker branch (5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti) will teach the entire family about planting a garden of delicious, organic vegetable, herbs and edible flowers. Local author Sherri Repucci will give tips to ensure success in growing, cooking, storing, and preserving the garden's harvest. The program runs 6:30-8:00 p.m., but space is limited to first come, first serve. Light refreshments will be served during the event.

Wednesday morning, families have a chance to join in the fun for Read Across America Day when the Dr. Seuss team visits Michael's Crafts (3655 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor). Join the fun from 10:00 a.m. - noon for special coupons, give-aways and crafts. Kids can make their own bookmarks, and printed coloring sheets for this free in-store event.

Later that day, 7:00-8:30 p.m. at the Ann Arbor District Library Malletts Creek Branch (3090 E. Eisenhower Pkw., Ann Arbor) older kids, teens and youth can make their own felt balls using sheep wool. It's a neat process where warm, wet soapy water and hands help the wool felt into amazing shapes - Youth can create felt beads to string a necklace, a pet toy or just a fun baby ball!

Tammy Mayrend is a Ann Arbor search marketing professional and mother of two who blogs on low-cost local activities, events, and Ann Arbor area freebies for families at annarbormom.com.