ML Holiday Tag: family day

Start Your Engines! What to See and Do at America’s Car Museum

by Helen Walker Green

Think your tyke’s Hot Wheels habit is out of hand? Wait ’til you see this record-breaking collection of cars, trucks, motorcycles and more at Tacoma’s LeMay Museum. With vehicles of all shapes and sizes filling the nine-acre, four-story museum and plenty of hands-on activities to keep the tiniest car-crazy kid happy, America’s Car Museum is your one stop shop for fuel-injected fun.

photo: LeMay Museum

Life is a Highway
You can’t miss this museum from the freeway – the building looks like a chrome air-intake on a hot rod (or maybe it’s a muffler). Right across the street from the T-Dome, America’s Car Museum is a big draw for car aficionados – you may even spot some classics in the parking lot. The Grand Prix race car mounted on the wall grabs your attention as soon as you enter, and there’s an ever-changing display of lovingly-restored vehicles in the lobby.

 photo: Helen Walker Green

Pedal to the Metal
ACM is full of amazing vehicles from the 19th century right up to the 21st. Can you find the cherry red Deusenberg or the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost? What about the tiny Crosley Fire Engine or the Messerschmitt? It’s a great place for kids to get an eye-opening look into the history of the automobile – bet they didn’t know early motorists had to turn a hand crank to start their engine. It’s a good thing we don’t have to do that now!

 photo: Helen Walker Green

Get Your Kicks on Route 66
Head west on Route 66  – and show your kids the road and the automobiles that inspired the movie Cars. These are the kind of cars that cruise “low and slow” through Radiator Springs – sporting fins, shiny grilles, and whitewall tires. You’ll also see the rarest Corvette ever made. The art deco gasoline pumps and tin signs make you feel like you’re cruising down the “Mother Road.” Psst… If your kids are Cars fanatics, be on the lookout for a ’56 Hudson Hornet, several Model T Fords, and a car raced by Richard “The King” Petty.

 photo: Helen Walker Green

Back to the Future?
If you’re starting to feel like a time-traveler – ACM has two DeLoreans on hand (although we’re not sure if they’re equipped with flux-capacitors). Also, keep an eye out for the Flintmobile, built especially for the Flintstones movie.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Spoiler Alert
Feeling the need for speed? The NASCAR Legends of Motorsport exhibit is full of fast cars, from early stock cars that raced on dirt tracks to cars driven by current stars. Learn about the famous cars and their equally famous drivers and see how NASCAR cars are designed to keep drivers safe in 200 mph crashes.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Speed Zone
Could you drive as fast as Jimmie Johnson or Danica Patrick? Big kids and grownups can test their driving skills on three racing simulators – the same kind used to train professional drivers! You may find yourself negotiating hairpin turns at Brands Hatch or racing on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Kids are good to go once their feet can touch the pedals and they feel ready to handle the controls. Staff and docents are very helpful and they even have cushions to help young racers get properly positioned in the driving seat.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Next door to the racing simulators you can take a spin on a fantastic hand-built slot car circuit. There’s a great assortment of cars to choose from, and four tracks, so the whole family can join in (watch out, Grandma just might lap you on that bend!).

 photo: Helen Walker Green

Road Trip!
When it’s time to shift gears, there’s hands-on fun in the Family Zone, where you can race pinewood derby cars down a super-speedy track – kids can add and remove weighted blocks from the chassis and experiment to see what combination makes their car go fastest. Find out how cars work and get an up-close look inside. Trace and color classic cars and take a pretend road trip across the country in a display that puts kids right inside the map. You can also “drive” an antique Dodge. (Psst! Make sure you turn the hand crank to make it go).

photo: LeMay Museum

Shaken, not Stirred
Think the British Invasion was just about pop music? Cars came across the pond in the swinging 60s too, including the Mini, MGB, Jaguar, and James Bond’s car of choice – the Aston Martin. Enjoy the music of the era as you look at the cool designs, from the racing green Lotus to the Morris Minor van.

photo: Helen Walker Green

The Age of Steam?
Did you know electric cars were being made back in the early 1900s? Car makers experimented with all kinds of propulsion back then, including steam. When your future driver gets behind the wheel, he or she may not be driving a gasoline-powered car. Get them ready for the future by checking out cars powered by alternative means (although steam cars are not likely to be that big in the 21st Century).

photo: Helen Walker Green

Get Your Motor Running…
If you think ACM is filled with just cars, think again. There’s no shortage of motorcycles at ACM including classic Harley-Davidsons, Triumphs and Yamahas. There’s also an awesome collection of vintage scooters, featuring Lambrettas, Vespas and more. If your family is really into motorcycles, be sure to check out ACM’s roaring Vintage Motorcycle Weekend held each summer (keep an eye on their website for more deets).

photo: Helen Walker Green

Pit Stop
After seeing all the museum has to offer, you’ll probably be “exhaust”ed (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves there). Fuel up at the Classics Café by Pacific Grill. It offers tasty fare for a pit stop, including salads, juicy burgers, bbq chicken sandwiches, chili brats and root beer floats. Then hit the ACM Store – packed with every car-related souvenir you can think of from VW bags and Mustang t-shirts to build-your-own internal combustion engine kits.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Good to Know
ACM hosts a STEM Family Day on the third Saturday of every month, where families can explore the world of cars and its relation to science, technology, engineering and math. Check out the details online. Summer camps are also offered for ages 8-15 and can be found online.

LeMay – America’s Car Museum
2702 E. D. St.
Tacoma, Wa 98421
253-779-8490
Online: lemaymuseum.org

Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $16/adults; $14/seniors (65+) & military; $12/students; $8/kids (6-12); children 5 & under and members free. Racing simulator $8; slot car track $3/driver.
Parking: $5. (Psst! Remember your parking spot number and pay inside when you buy your ticket).

The LeMay Collection is so huge, only about a quarter of it can fit in America’s Car Museum. The collection is rotated through, but If you want to see ALL THE CARS, you can. The rest of the vehicles are housed in the LeMay Family Collection, also located in Tacoma. More information can be found here. 

Have you taken your kids to LeMay – America’s Car Museum? What was their favorite part? Tell us in a comment below!

— Helen Walker Green

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Teach Your Kids to Love Opera. No, Really.

by Meghan Rose

Opera (noun): A super boring performance where very large people screech in a foreign language. See also: interminable, nap time, old-fashioned.  If that’s your definition of opera, it’s time to change that! Under the direction of Placido Domingo, LA Opera is hosting a Family Day on March 8 with a vibrant and exciting production that makes opera come to life for kids—and parents, too.

Opera + Kids = Disaster. Right? Wrong!
Opera and kids sounds a bit like oil and water, but more expensive and potentially more embarrassing, when you have to abandon your seats after fifteen minutes because they clamor (loudly) that “this is boring.” That seems like an obvious conclusion—until you actually take your kids to the opera. Opera is loud, dramatic, musical, and the sets and scenes are busy and ever changing. It’s perfect entertainment for your little A.D.D. drama addict. None other than Placido Domingo knows this: Opera is for everyone. So this year he has created the Domingo Family Days. For kid friendly operas (not an oxymoron!), the LA Opera has a matinee show book-ended by themed activities for the whole family to enjoy, while learning more about the opera.

Even Elmer Fudd Likes It
The Family Day opera this spring is The Barber of Seville (yes, the one you know from watching Bugs Bunny). It’s the story of the dashing Count Almaviva who has lost his heart to the beautiful Rosina, who has a mean guardian determined to marry her himself. Figaro comes to the rescue, and the barber conjures up wacky schemes to unite the young lovers.  And it’s got a score you can’t get out of your head.  (In a good way, unlike say, The Doc McStuffins theme song.)

First, There’s The Pre-Show
Before the show, you’ll head up to the 5th Floor of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. A teaching artist leads fun acting workshops that explore themes from the opera and help kids understand the elements of theater. There will be tables of props from the Opera that kids can play with, as well a kite making workshop. With a stunning view of the city and hills and popcorn, drinks and cookies to tide you till intermission, it’s a perfect way to start the day.

Then, Your Seat. And Their Seat, Too.
Something is already waiting for you—a booster. You can reserve one beforehand, and the opera staff will have it waiting in your child’s seat. And here’s one more thing you can reserve: intermission drinks and snacks. Your little one doesn’t want to wait in line when the break rolls around. So pre-order & pay and your treat (a little champers for you, a big bag o’ gummy bears for them) is ready and waiting. Then it’s showtime. And because you’ve accessed the special website (you’ll get access when you get family package tickets) with description and kid friendly activities, you all know the plot.  But just in case you forget, the words, in English, are displayed to the sides of the stage throughout the show.

There’s More Show After The Show
Post-show it’s time to meet the cast. Back to the 5th floor you go, where a whole new table of treats await, so you can nosh and nibble and pick up your kites while you wait to have your program signed by these singing sensations, who are happy to meet and talk with the next generation of opera lovers.  It’s a thrill for kids to meet the stars, and you can tell that it’s exciting for the singers as well.  They really take their time with the kids, answering all questions as well as asking what the kids enjoyed.

More Opera…
Now that your little one is a fan (and your fear is banished), be sure to check out the other family shows that the LA Opera stages for kids across the city:
Opera Tales Tour  – Free shows in public libraries.
Saturday Mornings at the Opera – Twice a year shows just for kids.
Community Opera – Free community opera performances.

And before we say, “That’s all folks,” one last link to get you in the mood. Click here to hear a little of the music, courtesy of everyone’s favorite bunny.

Domingo Family Day is March 8, family pre-show activities start at 12:30 p.m., curtain is at 2 p.m.
The show is best for kids 5 & up.
Tickets start at $17, get tickets to Family Day by calling the box office.

Dorothy Chandler Concert Hall
Grand Ave, Downtown LA
Phone: 213-972-8001
Online: laopera.org/tickets

Have you taken your kids to the opera? What did they think? We’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below.

-Meghan Rose

 All photos courtesy of Meghan Rose and the LA Opera.

 

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Fall Falls: 4 Waterfall Hikes to Enjoy This Season

by Phebe Wahl

Your little sprouts up for some leaf peeping? Make a major splash and take the family to one of these beautiful waterfall trails. They are all short enough for even the littlest legs and will really “wet” their appetite to explore nature’s wonders.

Helton Creek Falls
A great hike for kids, Helton Creek Falls is a trail a little less than half of mile long featuring a double waterfall. Just north of Helen or Dahlonega, this hike is a perfect complement to a quick family day trip. Click here for your guide to a gold mine of family fun in Dahlonega, or here for your guide to a “Bavarian” good time in Helen.

Find It: From Dahlonega, take Highway 129 to Turners Corners and turn left. Continue past Neel’s Gap to Helton Creek Road on the right. Once on Helton Creek Road follow it for just over two miles. The parking lot is on the right. Or, the more scenic route to Helton Creek Falls is from Helen. Take GA. 348 (Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway), and at the town of Hood, go west. Follow this unnamed road. It fords two rivers and becomes Helton Creek Road. Continue down to the parking lot on left.

Amicalola Falls
At 729 feet, Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast. The trail is a bit longer at 2.1 miles, and you need to watch the little ones on the steep staircase beside the waterfall. The climb is worth it as at 1 mile you’ll reach a bridge with spectacular views of the Appalachian Mountains to the south.  Bring a picnic to enjoy at the end of your hike. There is also a playground to burn any excess energy that the little ones may have left before loading back up for home.

Find It: 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville

Desoto Falls Trail
Bring a sack lunch (there are even grills) and enjoy this double water fall hike at Desoto Falls in the Chattahoochee National Forest. This trail is a great hike for the little ones at an easy 2 miles long. Teach the tots a history lesson along the way as it was here that archeologists found a plate of armor that was thought to be from an explorer from the 1500s.  The kiddos will love Desoto Falls Trail one of Georgia’s most popular waterfall hikes.

Find It: From Dahlonega travel north on US 19 for 13.5 miles to Turners Corner. At this intersection, turn left and proceed on US 129 for 4.2 miles. Shortly after the Walasi-yi Center is a left turn for the park.

Marble Mine Trail
The Marble Mine waterfall hike is only 1.7 miles long roundtrip and is full of fascinating sights to delight budding naturalists. The trail leads to a large abandoned mine entrance in Floyd State Park where the wee ones will enjoy peering into the undeveloped mine. Scattered white marble figments line the trail, which are fragments of the old mine. Don’t forget to catch the reflections of the surrounding forest and fall colors in the water of the park’s lake—a picture perfect moment. If you are looking for more fun in the area, check out the Etowah Indian Mounds.

Find It: From Rome, take I-75 exit 306 (GA 140) west for 16.0 miles. Turn left at Sloppy Floyd Lake Road. Travel 3.4 miles, past the lake and the park office to the Marble Mine Trail entrance on the left. Park and return to the trailhead to begin the hike.

Looking for other tot-friendly hikes? Click here for our list of the best natural walks in and around Atlanta, or here for even more hikes suited for little legs.

—Jessica Obenschain

Photos courtesy of Georgia State Parks, jeffgunn, LLoydnc and FlossieJane on Creative Commons via Flickr

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Just Opened: The Discovery of King Tut at The NAT

by Cherie Gough

Is your house full of adventurers? Do your little ones spout off the names of more dinosaurs than you ever knew existed? Ready to walk like an Egyptian with one of the biggest exhibits opening this fall? For curious minds always ready to learn something new, The NAT offers an exciting day’s romp that is sure to spark some great family conversations.

Photo Courtesy of The NAT

The Discovery of King Tut
The newest highlight at The NAT is The Discovery of King Tut exhibit, which opened Oct. 11 and runs through spring 2015. This impressive recreation of King Tut’s tomb replicates the beauty and awe of discovering the young pharaoh’s tomb as it was first found with all its golden treasures at hand.

Families will marvel at the large, open, gilded burial chamber with intact mummy, golden masks, and stunning treasures such as statues of Egyptian gods and precious gems and learn about the young king who died at the age of 19 but who will never be forgotten. An audio tour in both adult and kid versions will enhance your understanding of the exhibit and is included in the price of your tickets.

This special exhibit is worth a visit all on its own. Entrance to the exhibit costs $27 for adults (members are $15). And to celebrate Kids Free San Diego, the first 500 kids who enter with a paid adult are admitted free. Otherwise kids under 12 are $10 during October.

Insider’s Tip: This is sure to be a popular exhibit. To ensure a speedy entry without waiting in long lines with your kiddos, we suggest purchasing advance time entry tickets online.

Photo Courtesy of The NAT

Permanent Exhibits
A big draw for little ones is the 2nd floor of the museum: Fossil Mysteries where terrific, interactive exhibits allow kids to pretend to be paleontologists with truly hands-on experiences. Starting at the South Entrance, kids turn a wheel and watch a baby dino “hatch” from an egg. Further on, school-aged museum-visitors will enjoy the interactive blocks that tell a story of a local dinosaur’s life, death and journey to the museum.

A big screen computer prompts kids with hints in sequencing the story, a hit with kids who love technology. Younger siblings can stand next to a model of an ankylosaur and touch his plates. Enter prehistoric San Diego and search for animals with a field guide, use a sifter to look for fossils, and gaze through a microscope at fossils projected onto a computer screen.

Also on this floor, kiddos can move a large map of California showing how plate tectonics are at work and also check out the animals that lived in our local waters during prehistoric times and compare them to native animals living today.

Photo Credit: Cherie Gough

Your visit includes a ticket to watch a movie in the comfortable giant screen theatre on Level 1. The film Ocean Oasis is great for kids of all ages who enjoy learning about animals and reinforces topics that they saw throughout their museum tour. Filmed in Baja California, you too may learn something new about this nearby region and relax watching the beautiful scenery.

Also on Level 1, sit in peace at a table in the atrium and savor a cup of coffee at the Dino Cafe where you can watch your little ones play in adjacent Camp-o-saurus with model dinosaurs, a tent, and campfire. Enjoy a quick walk through the water exhibit located behind Camp-o-Saurus where water conservation is reinforced in a cool demo showing how energy and water are linked. Spot some local live reptiles in the terrariums as you pass through.

Photo Credit: Cherie Gough

More Reasons to Visit
In addition to its stellar exhibits, The Nat features fun, family events that add to kids’ scientific thinking and hands-on experiences. If your kids love this museum, consider coming back for one of these fun programs that is free with admission.

For Preschoolers: Nature and Me Storytime
Every second Thursday, little ones can listen to stories and engage in fun activities that will enhance their love of nature. Upcoming themes include: bats, Ancient Egypt, and winter animals.

For School Kids: Wacky Science Sundays with Mrs. Frizzle
Every Sunday Mrs. Frizzle takes kids on an awesome adventure via her Magic School Bus. This show features Mrs. Frizzle decked in her wacky gear taking fun-loving kids through the fascinating world of science. In October explore bats, in November germs, and in December coyotes. The popular show runs every Sunday at 12:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.

Family Days
Each month, the NAT hosts a special Family Day on a weekend  between 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. This month explore bats and make a Halloween-themed crafts. Next month, learn more about King Tut and learn to walk like an Egyptian.

Insider’s Tip: After your visit, enjoy a picnic nearby. At the North entrance is one of the biggest fig trees in all of San Diego. Near the South entrance is Balboa Park’s renowned fountain.

Money Saving Tips 

  • If you’re thinking about visiting multiple times, the NAT offers annual membership. For $70, a family can enjoy unlimited entrance to the museum’s permanent exhibits, family shows and films. Members also receive significant discounts to special exhibits like The Discovery of King Tut, and discounts for summer camps and the museum store.
  • Kids are free to the permanent exhibits during October.
  • San Diego residents receive free museum admission on the first Tuesday of each month.

1788 El Prado
Balboa Park
San Diego, Ca 92101
619-232-3821
Online: sdnhm.org

Have you taken your little ones to the Natural History Museum? What’s your favorite thing about The Nat?

— Cherie Gough

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Fur Sure: Don’t Miss This Sesame Street Exhibit!

by Anna Knoebel

Kids are born loving “Sesame Street.” Babies go gaga for Elmo, and the appeal of Kermit and friends endures for the toddler set and beyond. That’s why Somebody Come and Play: 45 Years of Learning on Sesame Street, on view now until January at Lincoln Center, is a must-see for both new and old fans of the groundbreaking show. It’s got life-sized Muppets, archival art and clips, and an off-the-hook play space. Kowabunga! (Double Kowabunga: It’s free!)

Where the Air is Sweet

A collaboration between Sesame Workshop and the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, the exhibit fills the 3700-square-foot Donald and Mary Oenslager Gallery with over 250 items from “Sesame Street”‘s history. When you enter (at the West end of Lincoln Center plaza) you’ll first encounter a mechanized Oscar the Grouch, who lifts his head out of his trash can when a green button at kid-height is pressed. While the little ones are occupied “disturbing” Oscar, you can check out the surrounding room, filled with production photos, early promotional prints and videos, and information about how the show was (and is) inspired by New York City.

Word on The Street: Grab a program guide outside the gallery entrance. Toddlers will still be paging through it days later.

The People in Your Neighborhood

Moving further into the space, you’ll find many of the most popular “Sesame Street” characters: life-sized Big Bird (along with his sizable nest), Elmo, Cookie Monster, Bert and Ernie, and others. Though the Muppets aren’t for touching, they’re still a treat to see: pristine, well-lit and surprisingly compelling. Interspersed throughout the space, collections of original sketches, style guides, and behind-the-scenes footage pay tribute to the talented writers, composers, animators, and puppeteers who have contributed to the show’s success. While you’ll probably enjoy it, the material is pretty dense for kids, so sit them down to watch video reels from early shows, play with apps on strategically-placed iPads, or let them dig into some real live Muppet hair.

Word on The Street: Beware the Plexiglass. We saw many a kid make a run for Big Bird and bounce off.

After you’ve consumed all the history you can handle, take the kids to where the real hands-on magic happens: a huge play space filled with desks where they can color, read “Sesame Street” books, or watch clips from the show. The interactive area also includes a giant chalkboard, an illuminated hopscotch board, and a photo booth where you and the kids can take pictures with Honkers.

Word on The Street: Check for your photo on screens outside the gallery entrance.

Everybody’s Song

After 45 years of Muppet magic, we’d be hard-pressed to find a person who didn’t have at least one memory of watching (or letting someone else watch) “Sesame Street.” “Somebody Come and Play” is a truly comprehensive look at the show’s past, and Muppet lovers of all ages will enjoy the behind-the-scenes peek at the landmark series. While the exhibit is a great activity for any day, it’s also a perfect option in the face of rain, and — thanks to a generous run through January — even snow.

Word on The Street: Want the maximum Muppet experience? Check out Family Day on October 13 from 1-4 p.m. The afternoon will feature storytelling, giveaways, games, a full-bodied Muppet, and complimentary goodie bags for the first 50 children under 10 years of age. On select Wednesday mornings, the library will offer storytelling at 11 a.m. (Check the website for exact dates).

“Somebody Come and Play”: 45 Years of Learning on Sesame Street
Now through January 31, 2015, Mon. – Sat., noon – 6 p.m.
Tickets: Free
The Library for the Performing Arts’ Donald and Mary Oenslager Gallery
40 Lincoln Center Plaza
Manhattan
With strollers, use ramp at 65th St. & Columbus Ave.
Without strollers, you can also enter at 111 Amsterdam Ave., just below 65th St.
917-275-6975
Online: nypl.org/sesamestreet

— Anna Knoebel
 
What’s your little Muppet’s favorite thing about “Sesame Street”? Let us know in the comments below!
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Courting the Kids in Corte Madera

by rtsarahlynch

Tucked between Mount Tamalpais and San Francisco Bay, the town of Corte Madera is a mash-up of small-town nostalgia and big-time amenities—perfect for a family day out. It’s home to Marin’s two main shopping malls and is filled with charming midcentury neighborhoods, all centered around a  20-acre public park.

 

photo: Sarah Lynch

Play

Town Park
Corte Madera’s 20-acre Town Park includes playing fields, a skate park, tennis courts and the Community Center, along with one of the largest playgrounds in Marin. There’s an area for toddlers and little kids along with a sand box and a swing set. A separate area for older kids features a rock wall.

map it

San Clemente Park
This park borders the Mariner Cove neighborhood and Cove School so it’s primarily used for its playing fields and as part of the schoolyard. But there are two fenced-in play areas for kids of all ages—perfect for neighborhood kids or families watching team sports.

map it

photo: Momma H. via Yelp 

Playground at The Village at Corte Madera
There’s a fun kiddie play area with climb-on creatures at this outdoor shopping mall. Located directly across from Peet’s Coffee on the southern end of the mall, it’s a good place to unload the stroller and let the kids run around. Be forewarned: even though it’s covered for shade, the structures can get hot on a warm sunny day.

1618 Redwood Hwy.
Corte Madera, Ca
 415-924-8557
online: villageatcortemadera.com

 

 

Explore

Hiking Ring Mountain
If you have a little rock-climber or a budding archaeologist, consider a hike along the three-mile trail looping Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve. On a clear day the views of the East Bay, San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge are breathtaking and better yet:  you’ll encounter something for everyone—petroglyphs, boulders and rare wildflowers.

5300 Paradise Dr.
Corte Madera, Ca
online: marincounty.org

Bike Along the Marshes
There’s a flat paved bike path that connects Larkspur and Corte Madera that is great for beginning riders. You’ll ride along the Corte Madera Creek Marshland and pass several shopping centers along the way if you need to stop for bathroom breaks. The path along San Clemente Drive ends at the Paradise Foods grocery store so you can grab a bite before heading back the way you came.

map it 

A Child’s Delight
This toy store, one of three branches in the Bay, is filled with high-quality brands like wooden Haba toys, Corolle dolls and Alex art supplies. Located in the Town Center near the elephant fountain, there’s lots of space just outside the store, where kids can work out some of their toy-store enthusiasm.

105 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera, Ca
415-945-9221
Online: achildsdelight.com

 

photo: Sarah Lynch

Eat

Veggie Grill
The latest addition to the restaurant offerings at Corte Madera’s Town Center mall, this vegetarian eatery will definitely get your kids to try something different. Crispy cauliflower, vegan mac ‘n cheese and kale salad with meat-free thai “chicken” are just a few of the small-scale options.

147 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera, Ca
415-945-8954
Online: veggiegrill.com

Pacific Catch
If you’re not one for vegan fare but you’re still looking for a kid’s menu with something other than the usual suspects, consider Pacific Catch. The locally based chain offers small-scale versions of their fish & chips, coconut shrimp and teriyaki bowls for kids and this location has an outdoor seating area with a firepit for chilly afternoons.

133 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera, Ca
415-927-FISH (3474)
Online: pacificcatch.com

Brick & Bottle
A Michelin-ranked restaurant that the whole family can enjoy sounds like a faraway dream, but Brick & Bottle is a dream come true. The farm-to-table menu includes kid’s options like petrale sole or skirt steak with seasonal veggies.

55 Tamal Vista Blvd.
Corte Madera, Ca
415-924-3366
Online: brickandbottle.com

Lighthouse Café
You may be familiar with the original Lighthouse Cafe in Sausalito but just across from the Old Square’s Gazebo is another location. This diner-style restaurant serves breakfast standards—including the Mickey Mouse pancake—as well as a selection of Danish specialties (the owners are from Denmark).

12 Tamalpais Dr.
Corte Madera, Ca
415-945-8902
Online: lighthouse-restaurants.com

 

photo: Marni N. via Yelp

Sip and Snack

Cafe Verde
Grab a coffee and a snack at this charming new café. With built-in outdoor seating perfect for squirmy kids or strollers, Café Verde is a great spot to hang with your tiny tots. You’ll especially love that it’s a stone’s throw from Corte Madera Park and right next to the community center.

502 Tamalpais Dr.
Corte Madera, CA
415-927-1060
Online: cafeverdemarin.com

Café at Book Passage
The café and wine bar at Marin’s legendary independent bookstore accommodates kids with a menu of sandwiches including PB&J’s (and they even have gluten-free bread). Grab a book for you and another one for your sidekick then hit the café for coffee or a well-deserved glass of wine while you crack the spine on your new novel.

51 Tamal Vista Blvd.
Corte Madera, CA
415-927-0906
Online: bookpassage.com 

 

—Sarah Lynch

 

 

 

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Guppies and Pikes: Splash-tastic Summer Swim Teams

by Gabby Cullen

Swim little fish swim! If your kid has dreams of making it onto the illustrious Wheaties Box, what better way to start the journey than joining a recreational summer swim team? Not only will they be able to enjoy the water on those hot summer days, but they’ll get their daily dose of exercise and be able to enjoy a sport that is available to anyone willing to don a suit and jump right in. Events like Swim-a-Thons and Pasta Power Nights are often the norm, making it fun for the whole family. Indulge your future Michael Phelps or Dana Torres by finding the right team, at the right level.

San Francisco

Rossi Manta Rays Swim Team
This super successful year-round team has summer hours and participates in the recently created San Francisco Summer Swim League. Swimmers will also learn how to give back to others, during the summer months, members help out with the San Francisco Parks and Rec Learn-to-Swim program. Many kiddos in San Francisco have learned the stroke basics with help from the Manta Rays.

Rossi Manta Rays Swim Team
Rossi Pool
600 Arguello Boulevard
San Francisco, Ca
Dates: Registration open now
Online: rossiswimteam.blogspot.com
 

The MLK, Jr. Blue Dolphins
This year-round competitive swim team strives to make the sport available to all interested kids, regardless of background and economic status. They participate in the SF Summer Swim League and came in second in 2011.

MLK, Jr. Pool
5701 Third Street
San Francisco, Ca
Dates: Ongoing
Online: mlkbsf.org


Balboa Sharks
With classes for both pre-schoolers and adults, everyone will be cruising through the water after a summer with the sharks. They cover everything from breath exercises to basic strokes in their classes, making them great for swimmers of all skill levels. Families wanting to join the Balboa Sharks need to have an account with the San Francisco Parks and Rec prior to signing up.

Balboa Sharks
51 Havelock Street
San Francisco, Ca
Dates: Registration open now
Online: sfrecpark.org/BalboaSpring

 

Marin County

Novato Riptide
Northern Marin kiddos will get a kick out being part of the Novato Riptide, which calls the pool at Indian Valley College home. they have fun events such as the Bring Your Parents to Swim Day.

Novato Riptide
Indian Valley College Campus
Ignacio Boulevard
Novato, Ca
Dates: Open Registration ends June 1st, 2013
Online: novatoriptide.org
 

Marinwood Waterdevils

This team in central Marin is tons of family fun. With the Tadpole program for swimmers ages 4-6 operating in tandem to the Waterdevils, ages 4-18, the little beginners will “graduate” to the swim team when they have the skills. Bingo Night, Pasta Power Night and and team BBQ’s throughout the summer will bring the whole gang together for unforgettable family nights.
 
Cool Bonus: Hot Chocolate Fridays! A great incentive to get the kiddos working hard.
 
Marinwood Waterdevils
Marinwood Community Center
775 Miller Creek Road
San Rafael, Ca
Dates: Open Registration ends April 30th, 2013
Online: waterdevils.org
 

Terra Linda Orcas
The very first team in the Marin Swim League, the Orcas enjoy practice in a fabulously modern 8 lane pool. Little kids trying their hand at swimming will love the Junior Orcas program. Parents will love the adults only Wine and Cheese night, and everyone will have a blast at the Meet and Greet BBQ and Dance!

Terra Linda Orcas
Terra Linda Recreation Center
670 Del Ganado Road
San Rafael, Ca
Dates: Open Registration ends July 13th, 2013
Onliner: tlorca.org
 

Strawberry Seals
One of Mill Valley’s summer swim teams, not only do these kiddos get to swim to their hearts content but there are super cool outings too, such as the Stinson Beach BBQ and the field trip to Raging Waters in San Jose. The seals have two practice locations but hurry to join up, this squad is nearly at full capacity! 

Strawberry Seals
Strawberry Recreation Center
118 East Strawberry Drive
Mill Valley, Ca
Dates: Open Registration ends on July 13th, 2014
Online: strawberryseals.com
 
Tamalpais High School Pool
700 Miller Avenue
Mill Valley, Ca
Online: strawberryseals.com

FYI: These teams are part of the Marin Swim League, check out the full list for a team near you!

 

East Bay

Warm Springs Gators
This team is part of the East Bay Swim League, which touts over 30 years of swimming kiddos under it’s belt. Although practices have already started, there are still spots open for those hoping to join a summer league.

FYI: Don’t live near the Warm Springs Gators home pad? Check out other teams in the East Bay Swim League.

Warm Springs Gators
251 Goldenrain Avenue
Fremont, Ca
Dates: Registration is now
Online: wsgators.org
 

Berkeley Barracudas
This year-round team has been supporting little swimmers since the 70’s. Since it’s a monthly fee, you can get your kiddo in the water for the summer months. There are two summer swim practices, so your guppie will be a pro at those strokes in no time.

Berkeley Barracudas
King Pool
1700 Hopkins Street
Berkeley, Ca
 
West Campus Pool
2100 Browning Street
Berkeley, Ca
Dates: Ongoing
Online: berkeleybarracudas.org
 

Walnut Creek Swim Club
This summer swim program also offers the Starfish Program for beginning swimmers, starting at age 3. The summer rounds out with an awesome championship meet in August.

Walnut Creek Swim Club
Las Lomas High School
1460 South Main Street
Walnut Creek, Ca
Dates: Open Registration ends on May 31st, 2013
Online: teamunify.com


Dublin Green Gators
Practice starts on May 31st and summer swimmers will compete against other teams in the Dublin and Pleasanton area like the Briarhill Barracudas, the FAST Dolphins and more! Parents interested in getting their kiddos signed up must do so through the Dublin Parks and Rec program, see here for more info.

Did you know? There are seven more teams in the Tri-Valley Swim League, check out the full list for the team near you!

Dublin Green Gators
Dublin Swim Center
8157 Village Parkway, Dublin, Ca
Dates: Registration is open now
Online: sites.google.com/a/dublingreengators.com

South Bay/Peninsula

Swim South Bay
Lucky members of the Swim South Bay team will travel to Lake Tahoe for a 4th of July meet! Parents will be stoked on a the one week trial offer, if the kiddo doesn’t dig the water, they don’t lose their registration money.
 

Swim South Bay
Presentation High School Pool
2281 Plummer Avenue
San Jose, Ca
Dates: Open registration ends on July 1st, 2013
Online: swimsouthbay.org
 
Pinehurst Cabana Club
886 Lewiston Avenue
San Jose, Ca
 

Osprey Aquatics
This is a year-round competitive team that offers a summer swim league too. Members of this swim league will get a blast out of the annual Family Day and Swim-a-Thon.

Osprey Aquatics
Willow Glen High School
2001 Cottle Avenue
San Jose, Ca
Dates: Registration is almost full, contact coaches for more info.
Online: ospreyaquatics.com
 
Peninsula Swim Association
This summer swim group has six teams swimming in the water. Which team is the best fit for your family? Fremont Hills Barracudas, Alpine Hills,  University Club, SCRA Summer Swim Team, Ladera Oaks and the Foothills Dolphins.
 
What is your go-to summer swim team? We want to know!
 

–Gabrielle Cullen

Picture #1: Little Swimmer Courtesy of Evoo73 via Flickr
Picture #2: Swim Team Fun Courtesy of JMurawski via Flickr
Picture #3: Diving Courtesy of EricSurfdude via Flickr
Picture #4: Jump Courtesy of Terren in Virgina via Flickr
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Take a Day Trip to the Russian River

by Erin Lem

In the heat of the summer, there is nothing like a canoeing day trip on the Russian River. Leave early and drive up to Guerneville, a small town along the river in Sonoma County. Visions of swimming and frolicking in the river, picnicking on a sandbar and most of all, enjoying a family day doing something fun, new and active will keep you motivated during the drive from the city.

When to go: In the summer or spring, when you want to escape the fog, the city, or both.

Approximate travel time: Guerneville is located 75 miles north of San Francisco, about an hour and a half drive.

What to see/do: One company named Burke’s Canoe Trips does half-day adventures. This outfit is a great idea if you have bigger kids, who are ready to paddle, but not with the wee ones. Johnson’s Beach is an option that accommodates smaller children. It’s a quaint spot where you can rent canoes by the hour, perfect for short attention spans. If you are not sure how your child will react to the vessel or activity, better not to invest too much energy or spend too much money.

Johnson’s Beach is a sweet little beach, reminiscent of spots in New England in the 70’s, a little lost in time, but that is part of the appeal. The locale and pace is slow, relatively easy to negotiate and an antidote to the foggy San Francisco summer. It is really low tech, really friendly and family run. It’s not fancy, but that too is what makes it special. You can rent an umbrella and someone will even come over and pound it into the sand for you. The snack bar serves soft serve for a dollar and you can rent inner tubes to float along if you don’t want to paddle. A popular area is the roped off kiddies pool and many folks just hang on the beach with a cooler and a good book.

In a canoe, an hour is a bit short, but enough for a paddle around. If you want to go down the river, away from the crowds, pack a picnic and plan on a three-hour tour. Once you get into a canoeing rhythm you can stop often to swim and hang on the shore, passing many other folks out for a paddle. If you head further down the river, you’ll be surrounded by calming peace and quiet!

Check out all the homes with docks and tables and setups along the banks. It is a leisurely way to introduce canoeing to little ones, who like to act as coxman, if they are not into paddling. The return trip takes slightly longer so make sure to plan out your journey.

Possible lunch spots: Once you have returned your canoe, head over to Flavors Unlimited for a simply divine and well deserved cone or shake. For a truly classic day, stop at In and Out for a burger and fries in Petaluma or Mill Valley, and then head home.

How to dress: Summer gear! Don’t forget the swimsuits, towels, hats and sunscreen and a change of clothes for the way back.

Cost: For the price of a ½ tank of gas and about $50, you can have a full day adventure! The beach offers canoes, kayaks and paddle-boats for rent ($30 day or $10 hour), as well as umbrellas ($6 day), low beach chairs ($5 day), and inner tubes ($5 day).

Need to know: This year because of the snowmelt, the river is higher than usual and the current stronger. Everyone needs to wear life preservers and safety first, always. Ask for a little refresher, children will listen to the experts about not standing up in a canoe.

– Darya Mead

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Family Fun at a San Jose Earthquakes Game

by Erin Lem

Bay Area soccer is a big deal. Check out the Marina Green Park any Saturday in the fall or spring and you will see hordes of peewee teams. The parks are often packed with older kids and adults on the pitch, in leagues or just playing for the love of it. When a World Cup is in action, flags fly, kids miss school and parents work, and often the city is at a standstill. Think about it and you’ll realize, there’s no better activity around which to build a fun family day out!

If your family is hankering for a great Bay Area spectator sport experience and tickets to the Giants, Sharks or 49ers are sold out or too steep, why not consider catching a San Jose Earthquakes professional soccer game?The Earthquakes are an Major League Soccer team. The MLS is a league that comprises top level teams from Canada and the US and includes many top tier players.

Most games are played at Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa Clara, although for some special occasions such as the 4th of July Firework festivities, the team plays at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto.

Many families, including lots of kids dressed in soccer gear flood the grounds for pre-game festivities and once in the stadium you could feel the roar of the crowd as the kids certainly gave the earthquake stamps their all. The team’s tag line is: San Jose Earthquakes: Did You Feel That? Taking your little ones to an outdoor game is a great way for them to get out some of that pent up energy and use those outdoor voices you’re perpetually trying to quell. During the game a rumble begins and then a stampede and it really feels like a temblor as fans stamp their feet in syncopated rhythm to get the excitement going!

The Earthquakes’ schedule runs from May through October and tickets run from $20-$50, with VIP tickets that go for much more.  San Jose Earthquakes games are very kid-family with tons of kiddos in the stands roaring and cheering on their team. Get into the team spirit and flaunt that teal blue and black — you can even try some fun face-painting before the game to show your family’s team pride!

There were a ton of free giveaways, Frisbees, soda, and posters, all of which will certainly keep your kids engaged. The pace of the game suits kids too. With only two 45-minute halves and a 20-minute break or so for halftime, it is a manageable outing for those little tykes with waning attention spans!

Parking is easy, although be ready to pony up around $20.  The bugs are nippy and it gets chilly when the sun sets so be sure to bring a jacket and layers!

Ole Ole Ole Ole!

Upcoming Games:
Sat. Jul 30 Earthquakes v D.C. United at the Buck Shaw Stadium 7:30 pm
Sat. Aug 6 Earthquakes v Timbers at the Buck Shaw Stadium 7:30 pm
Full Schedule: sjearthquakes.com/schedule

– Darya Mead

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