One of the descriptive catch phrases I swore I would never use as a writer is "offers something for everyone." This one-event-fits-all cop-out doesn't hold water since, well, one size never fits all. When it comes to kids, this is especially true. Can you imagine a 12-year-old boy being happy about attending a Pretty Princess party? Or most 7-year-old girls wanting to learn about gross science facts? Sure, some kids are exceptions to the norm, but for the most part, children have age-specific interests. With multiple kids under one roof looking to be entertained over February school break, keeping the peace on the home front can easily deteriorate into a touchy diplomatic situation.

I'm going to break my cardinal rule and use my most-hated cliché. We have a hidden gem here in our community that offers the perfect solution to school break terrors by serving as a terrific resource for parents: the Monroe County Library, whose menu of kids activities and programs truly offers something for everyone. And yes, typing that was painful, but I'm over it.

Below is a minor survey of some activities offered over February school break; parents may check out the full spectrum of offerings at each branch by heading to www2.libraryweb.org and clicking "kids" on the left-hand menu.

Anime Club: If your teen makes references to Naruto, wants to dress as a Shinigami for Halloween, thinks Tite Kubo is a literary genius, and forever has his or her nose buried in the latest issue of Shonen Jump, there's a good chance he or she will be right at home with the Webster Library's Anime Club. The club meets once a month for movies, activities, and fun.

Doodle Art: This class is perfect for all those kids like me who always got in trouble for doodling on their homework, on the cat, on the wall... Art is in the eye of the beholder, and kids can turn those doodles into art at this Fairport Public Library workshop.

Heart crafts: Whether Valentine's Day is your thing or not, teens do like making crafts. This class focuses on heart-themed activities such as making keychains, bracelets, and other gifts.

Wii action: Many branches are hosting Wii parties throughout the week. Wii Sports seems to be the major theme, but who knows what will transpire. Still, I've been told it's pretty cool to be out of school and have your parents take you to a video game team competition. Check the calendar for locations.

Mystery Mania Week: For my generation, Encyclopedia Brown was the man. Now? Who knows, but it is true that kids love mysteries. The Henrietta Public Library is hosting this week-long series for sleuthing teens with various activities centered around a selection of books available on the HPL website.

Chess: Whether it's chess instruction or some friendly competition your child seeks, many branches offer both, and some even hold tournaments.

Films: The Hamlin library is showing films every day during break based on books by well-loved children's authors, such as C.S. Lewis and Roald Dahl. Other branches are following suit. Free movies? Score.

Read to me: Many of these library branches have daily story time activities for smaller kids to attend with their parents. There are too many to list, so check the calendar for details.

Some of these programs require pre-registration, many have age range requirements, and most are free. Be sure to check the website for details.