Build and Grow Family Fun

Looking for a weekend activity to enjoy with your family? How about a visit to Lowe’s in Aliso Viejo!

When I first mentioned to my family that we would be heading to Lowe’s for some weekend fun, my kids groaned in unison, “Boring!”  I wasn’t exactly shocked at their response considering our last trip to Lowe’s resulted in the purchase of a water filter and some light bulbs. Even though we played “roller coaster shopping cart” and enjoyed some lounge time on the patio furniture swing set, it was still an errand.  It took a pinkie promise to convince my kids that this trip to Lowe’s would be different.

What my kids did not know was that I had signed them up to participate in Lowe’s Build and Grow clinic.  Offered every other Saturday, this clinic gives families a chance to build a cool project (usually a game or toy) together.  Even better, this clinic is free!

When we checked into the Build and Grow clinic, my kids were handed their own apron, goggles and project kit. Both my kids were excited to find out they would be building a shoot around basketball game.  As we led them to a box filled with kid-sized hammers, my 4-year-old son began to jump up and down while shouting, “Hip Hip Hooray!”  My 8-year-old daughter was a little more reserved but had a huge smile when she was told she could keep the apron and goggles for future Build and Grow clinics.

While my husband guided our kids on their projects, I had the chance to chat with Tifa Chau, of Santa Ana.  Chau works in the Customer Service Department at Lowe’s and has been managing the Build and Grow clinic for more than six years.  When I asked Chau what she enjoyed most about the Build and Grow clinics, she responded that she “loves the fact that kids have been coming here for years.”  Chau’s work with the Build and Grow clinics has even helped her realize that she would like to be a teacher someday. 

One of the kids that Chau has enjoying watching grow up is Shira Singer, 6, from Aliso Viejo.  Singer was proud to show me her 10 project patches attached to her apron.  Each patch represents a completed project from the various clinics.  Some of Singer's favorite clinics have been the U.F.O. and treasure box projects.  She also enjoyed the 3-part clinic offered during the holiday season where she had a chance to build different parts of a train, including the caboose.

After my kids finished their projects they were thrilled to receive a certificate of merit and their first Build and Grow patch.  I have no doubt that Lowe’s Build and Grow clinics will continue to be a part of our weekend fun.

Register for a Build and Grow clinic online.

The next clinic is March 26 and spots fill up fast.