October may be known as the scariest month of the year, but getting your January credit card statement (the one with ALL of those holiday purchases on it) is downright terrifying. But a lack of funds doesn’t mean a lack of fun! The St. Louis metro area is full of free family-friendly events. Here are a few you may want to check out:

Watching the news is depressing. This month alone included destructive tornados and dead birds mysteriously falling out of the sky. If that doesn’t make you want to crawl into bed with the covers over your head, news about the economy will. Because of high unemployment rates, it may be difficult for your teenager to land a job this summer.

Is your teen looking for a fun, friendly and unique work environment? Consider a seasonal job at the St. Louis Zoo! Come learn about all of the Zoo’s unique opportunities for spring, summer and fall employment. Positions include Food Service, Gift Shops, Grounds, Guest Services and more.9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Ages 15 and above. Free. The Living World at the St. Louis Zoo.

 More information: stlzoo.org or (314) 781-0900.    

Is your teen looking for a fun, friendly and unique work environment? Consider a seasonal job at the St. Louis Zoo! Come learn about all of the Zoo’s unique opportunities for spring, summer and fall employment. Positions include Food Service, Gift Shops, Grounds, Guest Services and more.9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Ages 15 and above. Free. The Living World at the St. Louis Zoo.

More information: stlzoo.org or (314) 781-0900.    

Like many people, my daughter is scared to death when she sees a bee heading her way. But pollinators such as bees are an essential part of our ecosystem. Many plants grown for food, beverages, fibers, condiments, spices and medicines must be fertilized with pollen. In fact, 90 percent of all flowering plants need the help of pollinators to produce fruits and seeds. Most pollinators are the usual suspects – bees, flies, beetles, wasps, ants, butterflies and moths. But an additional 1,000 species of animals, including birds, bats, lizards and small mammals also pollinate plants.