Lights, camera, action! Does your kiddo love captivating an audience with elaborate stories, hamming it up at family functions or belting out ballads in the car? Let their creative juices flow with the Tobi 2 Director’s Camera and the Tobi 2 Interactive Karaoke Machine. The cool features on these gadgets make it simple for your filmmaker or rockstar to tap into their creativity and curiosity. Better yet, you won’t ever hear the words, “I’m bored.” (PS: siblings may quickly find themselves as constant supporting actors and backup singers.)
Hollywood, Here We Come
The high-definition Tobi 2 Director’s Camera takes videos, selfies, and photos. A green screen and built-in backgrounds transform kids into anything they dream up—superheroes, news anchors, astronauts and so much more. Other awesome special effects include creating comic book pages, making video stickers and designing stop-motion videos. Proud parent alert: internal editing software elevates videos, movies and photos into masterpieces. No matter what story your child wants to tell, it’s possible with this cool camera. We can almost hear it now, “And the award goes to…”
Super Selfies FTW!
No newsflash here—kids are experts at sneaking into their parents’ phones and taking selfies. But with the Tobi 2 Director’s Camera, they can have their own device to make silly expressions and say cheese. The flip-out lens, selfie stick, tripod, auto timer and hilarious face filters take typical selfies up a notch. (Your phone’s photo library will thank you!)
Creative Expression, Made Simple
This digital HD camera is perfect for kids 6+. It features a large 2.4” display, a microSD slot for expanded memory, and rechargeable battery with USB cable for easy charging and downloading. Plus, it’s splashproof (because spills are inevitable with kids!). Before you know it, your kiddo will be deep in the creative process, proudly sharing mini-films that magically transformed their everyday world into a movie set.
Sing On
Is there ever a bad time for karaoke? (Ok, fine… maybe bedtime isn’t exactly ideal). The Tobi 2 Interactive Karaoke Machine can connect to an external music device using wireless Bluetooth® technology—playing any song through the built-in speaker. You can lower the volume of the vocals so kids' voices can be front and center. (There’s pitch correction for those working on carrying a tune.) Not only is the singing sensational, but there’s an LED lightshow with Tobi’s fun expressions, built-in songs and beats, voice effects and more. Save up to nine recordings to share your favorite tunes with your crew.
Dance Off
The Tobi 2 Interactive Karaoke Machine inspires superstar singing and dancing. Seven interactive games including Freeze Dance, Rap n’ Record, and Laugh Attack get kids moving and grooving. Consider this practice for when Beyoncé needs some new backup dancers…
Connect to the New Smartwatch
Both of these devices connect to the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch (sold separately), which can be used as a remote control to take pictures and videos with the Tobi 2 Director’s Camera or change tracks on the Tobi 2 Interactive Karaoke Machine.
If you’ve been hesitant to get your kids a Kindle, the newest version from Amazon might be a gamechanger. Kindle Paperwhite Kids just launched and it’s the first-ever waterproof Kindle for kids, plus it has no games, ads or videos.
Now your little bookworm can read and learn with zero distractions. The new e-reader includes educational tools to build literacy skills, with Word Wise quick definitions and Vocabulary Builder to create flashcards. Kids can have fun with achievement badges as they make progress toward pre-set goals. And they can switch between reading and listening to Audible books with an included one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+.
Even though this device cuts out troublesome videos and social media content, you still might want to keep an eye on what your kids are reading. An included Parent Dashboard lets you view reading progress, add books and use a Bedtime feature to make sure sessions don’t cut into a good night’s sleep.
Just like the adult e-reader, the kid’s paperwhite version has a glare-free screen, plus an adjustable warm light. It lasts up to 10 weeks on a single battery charge and it can withstand accidental immersion in water. You’ll be able to buy it for $159.99 starting today and you can choose between black, Emerald Forest or Robot Dreams.
When it comes to pantry organization, there are few hard and fast rules to follow, like group like items together, clean out expired products regularly and place the most often used items within reach. But if you want to really level up your pantry storage and make it the most efficient space ever, you’ve got to try these storage hacks. It may just become your favorite area in the house!
Experts unanimously agree—if there is one pantry storage hack you must do to make your life better (and not just for aesthetics), it's to take everything you can out of the box, put it into clear jars or containers, and label them. The choice of container is up to you, whether you prefer glass canisters for a more farm-style look or a more modern, minimalistic take, but the real reason to do institute this change? As gross as it sounds, this is the best way to avoid bug infestations—you can easily see if there's a problem in your flour, sugar, oats or pancake mix without contaminating your whole pantry.
Pro Tip: Look for wide-mouth jars so the goods are easy to get and ones with lids that have a seal.
One of our favorite pantry organization hacks of all time is adding a lazy Susan (or two or three) to pantry shelves. Not only does this little spinner save space, but bottles also won't get lost in the back corner, and the handy handles make carrying it in and out of the pantry easy peasy.
Organizing pantry storage starts with pulling everything out, throwing out expired products, donating any non-perishables you know you aren't going to use and wiping down the shelves. But before you put everything back (in an organized manner, of course), why not add a cheerful wallpaper to the walls? What is typically a dark, uninviting space is now fun, bright and welcoming.
While this wallpaper is out of stock, we love these peel and stick options from Etsy.
Sometimes, not even a bright colorful wallpaper can help a dark space. If that's the case, you can easily install lighting (no electrician required!) with motion-sensor, battery-operated LED lights that will brighten all those shadowy corners in less than ten minutes.
File this under "Brilliant." These wire magazine holders have been reimagined as produce containers! The wire frame allows sufficient airflow to keep veggies from rotting, and the depth of the magazine racks was designed to fit on shelves.
For larger items that are hard to contain (we're looking at you, bags and bags of Pirate Booty), or items you don't need access to all that often (food processor parts), add a couple of baskets with handles to the shelves. These beauties also stack, so if your shelf height allows it, you can add a few on top of each other—just add labels, so you know what's inside without having to pull each of them down to sort through them.
Got a thing for spice? We do too, which is why this clever spice rack is by far one of the best pantry organization hacks we've seen yet. Take advantage of the inside of your cabinet by installing narrow shelves and magnetic plates to keep all your flavors handy yet out of the way. Pro Tip: Make sure to install the racks so they don't run into the shelves on the inside cabinet.
Cans may stack easily, but there's nothing worse than trying to get to the bottom can by having to move all the other cans first. This 36-can organizer eliminates that problem and keeps the cans rolling from back to front as you use them. Group like items together, and you'll never get caught without black beans, corn or peas again.
Another great use of unused cabinet door space? Acrylic storage bins that can hold awkward-shaped items you need to access regularly like aluminum foil and sandwich baggies.
No plans for a vacation in 2022 yet? Now you have some!
Crystal Lagoons Island Resort has announced that the first Mattel Adventure Park is planning to open late 2022 in Glendale, Arizona. Kiddos will be able to get up close and personal with a Hot Wheels roller coaster, go-karting, a Thomas & Friends indoor theme park with a Thomas the Tank Engine electric-battery powered passenger train, tons of retail and special dining experiences.
Julie Freeland, Senior Director, Global Location Based Entertainment, Mattel shares “By partnering with Crystal Lagoons Island Resort, we will be offering new and immersive ways for families to experience classic brands like Hot Wheels, Thomas & Friends, and more.”
More information will be forthcoming in the next few weeks about Mattel Adventure Park and the associated hotels, restaurants and other brands that will come together to make it a world class destination.
Does your little one live for the daily visit from the postal worker? Now they can live out their mail dreams thanks to a special collaboration!
Kid Trax and the USPS have paired up to bring to special toys that bring the creative play and showcase local postal workers. Starting Jul. 13 you can order an interactive, ride-on USPS Mail Delivery Truck and USPS Post Office Tent that will make your kiddos feel like they’re the real deal.
The USPS Mail Delivery Truck Ride-On Toy is everything your little could want to deliver mail in style. It has a real mail slot, opening rear door, working headlights, horn, foot pedal acceleration and an FM radio/MP3 player input. Raise your hand if it’s fancier than your first car!
It comes with a mailbox, three plastic envelopes and a rechargeable battery and retails for $229.
And you can’t have a delivery truck without a post office! The USPS Post Office Tent has a roll-up front door, window, rear dock loading door, mail drop off slot, and a drive-up or walk-up delivery window. Parents will love that the play tent is easy to assemble and comes with a carrying case. It retails for $44 and is worth every penny!
If you want to roll down the road or up hills with the greatest of ease, consider a smooth riding electric bike to gently push you along. Electric bikes are great for many reasons including reducing fossil fuels, making it easier to ride long distances or up hills and effortlessly hauling extra weight.
Pretty much every kind of bike has been made into an electric version which makes the joy of electric cycling accessible to so many people in so many ways. Below you’ll find some of the most affordable and stylish electric bike options to cruise through town for errands, going to the park or even to take camping. Most of these will accommodate child seat add-ons or a tag along trailer to either a pannier, stem or a top tube. But make sure to identify where the battery pack is placed on the bike to ensure it won’t get in the way of your attachments.
If you want to take multiple kids out with you, here’s a good list of family cargo bikes to consider. Let’s pedal on to find the perfect electric bike for you, from electric beach cruisers to the best electric hybrid bikes.
The Best Electric City, Hybrid and Utility Bikes for Families
These are great for running short errands around town, going to/from work or taking the kids to school or the playground. These are upright sitting bikes with a comfy seat, best for paved roads and pathways, but hybrids can handle some gravel and dirt for light off-roading.
Electra Townie Go! 5i Step Thru, from $2,599
Electra Bikes
This bike is too cute and you're going to love cruising around town on it. You can rely on the workmanship as it’s one of the best-selling bikes in the U.S. from a well-known brand. Electra was bought by Trek (one of the top 3 bike companies) from Benno Bikes, a well-respected bike company. The Townie Go! is a great option for beginners because it’s so easy to use, fun to ride and the step-thru styling makes it easy to get on and off in a flash.
PROS: • Powered by the Bosch Active Line Plus System • Wide handlebars and a plush saddle made for a comfortable ride • Rear rack is included • Flat-foot technology provides a more relaxed seating position • Silent motor • The PowerPack 400 battery and 4 AMP charger charges quickly to keep you going. • Available in several fun colors
CONS: • It doesn't come with a basket or a bell, but you can easily add those on yourself
Chosen as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2018, it certainly has a lot of favorites going for it. Like an integrated rear rack, leather saddle and grips and an integrated USB port to charge your phone while you ride among others. Story Electric's Step-Through Bike has specialized indestructible ThickSlick tires tp provide optimal protection and a smoother ride. It’s well-priced for an electric bike with great styling and a philanthropic purpose. For every Story Bike purchased, they donate a regular bike to students in developing countries.
PROS: • Easy assembly and easy to maintain • Battery range: 45 miles
CONS: • Low power range: 250-350W • Limited accessories
What owners say: “The rear rack is solid and easily accommodates a child’s Yepp seat. The upright design means I don't have any issues with kicking the foot trays. The front eyelets allowed for the addition of a pannier rack and a big bag for lugging gear. The disc breaks make me feel secure with slick roads.”
This is one of the most affordable electric bikes that you can find today. Huffy bikes have been around since 1934 so they know a thing or two about bikes. Huffy's entry into the electric bike world brings them up to speed with the times. Front and rear disc brakes deliver solid control and pedal-assist helps you handle small hills and longer distances. For the lowest cost on the market it’s a good option if you want to get up to speed with the times too.
PROS: • Affordable price • 2 year limited warranty • 36v battery with lock
CONS: • Battery range: 25 miles
What owners say: “I bought this bike for my daughter a couple months ago and she would LOVE going bike riding with it. When she is going uphill, all she does is turns on electric mode and goes up quickly without a sweat.”
Trek is considered one of the top 3 bike brands in the U.S. and they have a solid reputation for quality, performance and service. With so many locations, you’ll likely be able to take your bike into a local shop for any repairs or adjustments you might need. The Verve+ is the 3rd generation and is equipped with more power and range in this model. Trek accessories are plentiful and seamlessly integrated for easy operation.
PROS: • 2 year warranty • Quiet motor • Battery power: 500Wh • Smooth and easy to ride
CONS: • Bottle cages can get in the way from removing the battery • The Purion display is the smallest offered by Bosch • There is no front suspension
What owners say: "Best bike ever! We were lucky enough to find this one in our local bike shop and LOVE IT. I pull our 4 year old twins in a trailer with total ease. I was not a bike rider prior but I AM NOW! only downfall about this model is that it doesn't come with fenders or matching fenders to purchase as an add on. Great bike for the money! It does all I need it to do to get us all around town and through the bike trails with ease!"
Cannondale Treadwell Neo EQ Remixte is a lightweight electric bike that’s fun to ride and comes from a trusted top brand bike company. It has a lot of accessories like racks, front and rear lights and a plush comfortable suspension seat. The aluminum alloy chain guide reduces drops and protects your pants from getting greasy or snagged.
PROS: • Battery range: 47mi • Cannondale has a large dealer network, so repairs and adjustments can be easily accessed • Wider tires are used to improve stability and comfort • Easy-to-use hydraulic disc brakes
CONS: • The display only has one button and takes extra time to figure out • Integrated battery can’t be removed for charging separately
What owners say: "Cannondale has put out a playful adult bike that makes it fun just going out for a bike ride. The handle bars have character, they’re not just a flat bar. The tires are nice and thick so hitting a bump is nothing dramatic. The seat is so stylish different then all others. The bike has fewer speeds it’s for a a playful ride...not an exact science. Ride and go have fun, even track yourself with the Cannondale App.”
This is an incredibly good bike from an incredible bike designer. Benno sold his famed Electra bike line to Trek and has been focusing on these "Etility" bikes. The quality is exceptional, the motor is very quiet and the battery pack can be removed from the bike for separate charging. It has a low stand over and saddle height; which makes it easier for those with more limited mobility to use. Best of all for parents, it comes with a rear rack that's compatible with child seats from Yepp!
PROS: • Large 4.25″ wide fat tires and steel frame dampen vibrations and give stability • Sold at various bike shops all around the U.S. so you’ll have good access to support • Comfortable seat adjusts up/down and front/back • Front basket can hold a staggering 65lbs • Comes in 4 different colors
CONS: • No suspension fork or seat post is included • It’s heavy at 65.3 lbs
What owners say: “It’s neat to see a product that captures the vintage style of a Vespa scooter with the clean quiet technology of electric assist.”
Powered by Harley Davidson, the Serial 1 RUSH/CTY SPEED offers a sleek design for jetting around the city. Available for pre-order, this ebike is sure to turn heads.
PROS
integrated battery and mass-centralized motor position
brake lines and electrical wiring are routed through the frame for a clean look
Electric beach cruisers are perfect for beginners looking for a casual ride on flat surfaces like boardwalks or sidewalks, to ride to the beach, a neighbor’s house or down the street to the park. These are usually single speed bikes with a backward peddle to brake and upright seating with a comfy seat. Tires are wide with low pressure and low maintenance made for a comfortable ride.
The Sol features a laid back riding position, wide handlebars and a comfortable seat with large tires for a smooth and easy ride. It has an upgraded 500W motor and 46v battery pack; which means you’ll get more power and more range out of it. There are lots of mounting points for accessories and add-ons, like the optional rear rack to fit a Yepp child seat.
PROS: • They’re sold through dealers so you can see and test them in person and have access to support • The chain guide prevents drops and will keep your pant legs from getting greasy or snagged
CONS: • It has mechanical brakes (instead of easier hydraulic brakes)
What owners say: “The Sol is one of their most popular bikes, and I can definitely see why. It’s beautiful but not overpriced, the components are all upgraded, and safety and strength have been taken into consideration. The step-thru frame is incredibly low and the battery is easy to remove for charging.”
sixthreezero Around the Block New 500W, from $1,899
You'll love this electric cruiser bike with a 500-Watt rear hub drive motor. It has a classically-styled beach cruiser frame that provides maximum comfort and riding ease. You’ll love zipping around knowing nobody can tell your being powered by a disguised motor.
The Model S is a classic Step-through style electric cruiser, built to order, arrives fully built, and is 100% customizable to your heart’s content. It’s been awarded as one of the top rated E-Cruiser bikes in the USA and is less expensive than many other bikes that come with less features. Even though it’s considered a cruiser, it can qualify as a utility bike with all of the accessories available and it’s 380 pound weight capacity for carrying groceries or kids.
PROS: • Extra battery range: 140 miles with extra battery pack • LCD color display is very user friendly • USB port for charging phones or speakers • Available in 10 fun colors
CONS: • These bikes are heavier at 60.5 lbs because they come with a sturdy welded-on rear rack • They only come with one gear • The frame only comes in one size, but with the step-thru and adjustable seat stem it should work for most
What owners say: "Wow! The entire team knocked it out of the park!! After Many hours of research on the BEST built electric bikes I ordered 2 for my family and could not pass up the value."
Riding this comfortable tandem is twice as nice when you share the fun with a friend. This is the world’s first electric bicycle built for two and with its oversized seats, wide handlebars and large balloon tires it’ll be comfortable for whoever you bring along. It’s simple, tough and fairly powerful while still being quiet.
PROS: • Battery range: 60 mi • Battery pack is removable for easy charging • Industry leading warranty
CONS: • The back handlebars are lower so it’s best for an older kid or someone who’s shorter than you • It has a basic display for battery, but doesn’t show speed or range • It’s naturally heavier than most electric bikes so it’ll be tricky to transport
What owners say: “Our tandem is the best purchase in a long time. We moved within 1 mile of the beach and enjoy our tandem to ride to dinner, happy hour or just a cool ride along the beach. The power is just right and have never had an issue with battery strength or range.”
Ideal for those short on storage space in condos or apartments, for riding to work to inside your office, for taking up and down stairs, on public transportation, boats, planes, trains, motorhomes or minivans. These bikes fold in half making them perfect for taking with you literally anywhere.
This highly rated bike is one of the most sold electric folding bikes on the market that will take you on incredible adventures with its high powered 500W motor. It’s built with a unique design for a variety of riders and usage through any riding conditions. It comes standard with a rear rack, smart mounting points for accessories and front/rear/brake lights. It easily folds up in less than 20 seconds into 36”x21”x28”, making it easy to store, and easy to bring. One of the best features is the Kevlar technology for puncture resistant tires.
PROS: • Battery range: 20 to 45 miles • Motor power: 500W • USB Charging port for phone or speakers • Comes standard with a rear rack • Fully charges in 2-3 hours • LCD display that shows your speed, range, trip meter, and odometer
CONS: • It’s one of the heavier folding bikes at 50 lbs • The folding mechanism isn't as smooth as it could be
What owners say: “It is so much fun to ride! It took me about a week to get used to the powerful motor but now I feel like a pro. The ride is smooth and sturdy even with my 2 year old on the back in her attached seat. It handles very well, even on bumps and filled potholes.”
This is one of the most affordable electric bikes available, and for a folding one at that. Given that it arrives fully assembled with all of the extras that are included like the upgraded 500W motor, standard rack and fenders, front/rear lights, LCD display, plush seating, adjustable handlebars and fat 4” tires. This is an excellent option to consider that even bikes that cost twice as much don’t have.
PROS: • Battery range: 45 miles • Motor power: 500W • Arrives fully assembled • Adjustable Seat and Handlebars • All-terrain fat tires allow for off-road trail riding
CONS: • The welding work is not very smooth • Some cables are exposed instead of nicely tucked away • It has no suspension
What owners say: “I’m gushing about this bike it’s that good…and I don’t say that lightly. This bike has touched something, it’s like it’s hit a long dormant nerve, that youthful fun when you got your first really good bike as a kid.”
The Dash is the best combination from all of their previous folding bike models put together. It’s the lightest mid-drive folding electric bike available with plenty of 350W power. It comes with a drive belt system that’s only found on the best quality bikes and gearing is handled by a reliable Shimano internally geared hub. This combination is the perfect system because it requires no maintenance, no lubrication, stays clean and can get bumped into and bounced around in transport without needing adjustment.
PROS: • Battery range: 40 miles • Motor power: 350W • Arrives fully assembled • 21 day at home trial • Good for riders from 4’10” to 6’4” • 4-year warranty
CONS: • Higher price point
What owners say: "The Dash is a great e-bike. It has plenty of power and outstanding range with pedal-assist. What really makes it a good buy is Evelo's outstanding customer service."
Wild Republic Slap Watches come in 42 models in various colors. The face on the watch has an animal design or a historical figure. If you flip the watch over, you’ll see “Made in China” with the initials K&M. The label does note that the slap watch is made for children three and up. About 463,000 watches were sold in the U.S., with about 75,000 more sold in Canada.
If you bought this watch for your child, immediately take it away and contact Wild Republic for a full refund. They were sold at various zoos, museums, aquariums, online at WildRepublic.com and Amazon for approximately eight dollars between 2018 and 2021. No incidents have been reported so far.
—Sarah Shebek
Images courtesy of the Consumer Product Safety Commission
Does your little shark love pretend chores? Now you can put that passion into action in the funnest possible way!
Pinkfong, known for wildly popular Baby Shark, now makes a kids vacuum, and it actually works. The Baby Shark Children’s Vacuum with Real Suction Power ($10) is safe for kids, has an adjustable height and of course, plays the famed Baby Shark theme song.
photo: Walmart
It also has a rechargeable built-in battery that lasts for an hour and a half, has lights and music that can be turned off and a removable waste bin. You can find your own tiny vacuum at your local Walmart store and at Walmart.com.
As a new mom, it can be flattering when your children only want you. No matter if it’s a scratched knee, a bedtime story, or that special way you put on their socks, kids gravitate toward Mom. It can make you feel loved, needed, and (after a while) like you can’t be away for more than a moment. Actually, not even a moment. They find you fast.
Children don’t mean to insult your partner by refusing assistance, and they don’t consciously intend to monopolize all your time. (Even though they often do both.) They simply seek comfort. At all times. And they are used to you.
What’s the best way to share parenting responsibilities?
There may not be an official best way that applies to all situations. There may be places where you want to be the go-to parent, and others you want to share. Even though your partner might already want to share in the duties, you might find you need to be the one to initiate communication. Often dads aren’t even aware of a problem unless we communicate our needs.
If you’re like most moms, the bulk of child interaction defaults to you. Plus, we sometimes overlook our need for space and time to ourselves. If we do recognize the need, we either feel guilty or dread the logistical challenges involved. (If you think, “What would I do anyway?” It’s is a clear sign that you need time to connect with yourself.) Remember, you are a better parent when you have time to recharge your own battery. If you’re in a spot where you want your partner to share the love AND have your kids running to both of you, try these three steps.
Step One: Communicate Your Needs
The first step is shining light on the issue. There’s a chance your spouse doesn’t even realize that you’re not in maternal bliss with your kids hanging on you 24/7. After all, that’s what moms do, right? You might need to let him know that you want a more balanced distribution of hang time (so to speak). Approach this conversation by recognizing the benefit of both parents and different parenting styles (even though hopefully you’ve discussed and decided on your overall parenting approach already). When you frame the conversation in terms of a win-win for everyone, especially the kids, you might get even more buy-in. Even if the issue deals more with your child’s behavior, having a conversation with your partner is always the place to start.
Step Two: Create Bonding Moments
No matter how upset your children get when you’re away, encourage your partner to develop his own way of playing and dealing with tough situations. Hopefully, there are already games and things that your partner and kids do together. You want them to be comfortable with each other when there’s not a crisis. That’s the place to start. Then, practice with the ‘crisis’ moments. If your child bursts into tears when you leave the room, have your partner come up with a game, story, or distraction to lessen that reaction and develop a stronger relationship. If you are the eternal boo-boo fixer, then let your husband craft his signature way of dealing with scraps and bruises. (And this could mean giving him the first aid kit and saying you really need to go to the bathroom, like, right now. Whatever works.) Creating time when your kids play with your partner (especially if it doesn’t happen automatically) helps them develop a stronger relationship that will continue to grow as everyone matures. Sometimes you might be able to be home for these shenanigans, and sometimes you may need to physically remove yourself from their space.
Step Three: Remove Thyself
If you are always available, then your children will always want you. It’s good for you and your children to have some time away from each other. This cannot be overstated: It is good for you AND your kids to have time away from each other. Set a regular ‘mom’s out of the house’ time where your partner takes over. It doesn’t matter what you do with this time, but make sure you honor it. Keep to the schedule to give them time to grow and work out their own system. It’s ok for it to be awkward, for the kids to cry, and for your husband to find his own way of parenting without texting you constantly. That’s necessary for everyone’s comfort level. Note: Be wary of controlling what happens when your partner takes over. The benefit of different parenting styles is accurate, and even though it won’t be like you do it – whatever “it” is – everyone will be happier and healthier. And if the house is destroyed when you come home (thus, feeling like more work for you), revisit Step One and continue the conversation.
These three simple steps have endless variations and may need to be revisited as your relationships develop, your children mature, and your needs evolve. Don’t be afraid to have awkward conversations, speak up for what you need, and persist through any uncomfortable behavior from your child, spouse, or yourself. Changing up the expected dynamic is bound to push buttons and bring up emotion. Rest assured that when you can be away without crisis, you’ll be happier and your family will thrive no matter who’s got the snacks.
Cara Maclean, Wellness Coach & Writer, works with moms to undo what keeps them exhausted. We cultivate the calm, joyful energy needed to handle any challenge with humor and grace. Author of Just the Way It Is: A Look at Gifted/2e Families, Spring 2022, GHF Press. Learn more at CaraMaclean.com
When the snow starts falling, adults see shovels and plows, but kids see snowballs and sledding. Take a timeout this winter and join the kids in one of these snow activities. Whether you let your inner child out to play or just watch the kids do their thing, these are the seven best snow activities to do this winter (and the best locations to do them!)
Sledding
Emily Williams
Who doesn’t love gliding over the snow on a sled or saucer? Lying flat on their stomachs, using rope to steer and hands to stop, every kid gets a thrill from sledding. And DC has no shortage of hills to rush down. One of the city's best hills is off-the-beaten path Battery Kemble Park. This hidden gem is in a residential area which keeps it tucked away from tourists and often sparsely populated – perfect for this year!
Where: Battery Kemble Park 3035 Chain Bridge Rd NW Washington, DC 20016 202-895-6070 Online: nps.gov
Snowtubing
If regular sledding feels a bit tame to you and your bunch, snowtubing might be just what you want. The higher speed combined with the lack of control offers an adventure that will get the adrenaline pumping. You can ride alone or in tandem, this activity is usually best for kids 5 & up. You don’t have to go far to have fun, either; Liberty Mountain Resort is a perfect day trip from DC. Due to social distancing, be sure you make reservations and are prepared for a cashless pay experience.
Where: Liberty Mountain Resort 78 Country Club Trail, Carroll Valley, PA 717-642-8211 Online: libertymountainresort.com
Snowfort Building
popofatticus via Flickr
Building a snowfort is a fun way to spend a snowy day and, bonus!, you can use it as protection during an epic snow ball battles. Pick up this $10 brick maker (it also works at the beach!) to help littles build a solid foundation. Want to get super fancy? See if you can add ramparts, turrets, and cubbyholes for extra fun. The best place to build with snow? Your own backyard! Let the kids do their thing while you keep hot cocoa warm on the stove and watch the merry snow-making adventures from your own patio (or through the windows!).
The end of summer doesn’t mean the end of hiking if you enjoy snowshoeing. Snowshoeing gives hiking a whole different feel as you enjoy the shushed quiet of winter… well, as shushed as things get with kids. Snowshoeing is a great whole-family winter activity because if you can walk, you can snowshoe! The best place for snowshoeing is Canaan Valley with 35 kilometers of marked and ungroomed natural snow trails. And if you finish all those trails, you can head to the nearby White Grass Ski Touring Center for another 60 kilometers.
Where: Canaan Valley 230 Main Lodge Rd. Davis, West Virginia 26260 304-866-4121 Online: canaanresort.com
Get creative by building a snowman or snowwoman. Let everyone build their own and decorate them complete with carrot noses, coal eyes, and scarves or bowties around their wintry necks. Use what you have around the house, or get a snowman kit here. Have a fam-friendly contest to decide who built the best snowperson (with prizes for everyone, of course!). Or make it a neighborhood-wide competition and let everyone on your block in on the fun. Want to up the stakes? Award the winner this snowman trophy ($24.99)!
Skiing makes a great family activity and comes with built-in social distancing and masks! Whether you’re first-timers or experts, skiing offers a trail for everyone, ensuring that no one feels left out of the fun. And there’s no shortage of ski resorts nearby. Head to Winterplace Ski Resort for some of the best trails near DC. As an added bonus, if your littles get bored with skiing, they can also go snowtubing – including Kiddie Park for the younger kids!
Where: Winterplace Ski Resort 100 Old Flat Top Mt. Rd. Ghent, WV 25843 1-800-607-SNOW Online: winterplace.com
Create a Snowy Sensory Box
Sensory boxes are a great way to let your kids explore things with their hands, and a snowy sensory box lets you bring the outdoors inside. For a kiddo who isn’t a big fan of being cold or for entertaining older kids while littler ones nap, a sensory box lets them have the fun of snow days while staying toasty inside. Add a variety of little toys (think polar bears and penguins), decorative crystals, and other things that can change or contrast with the texture and temperature of the snow. It can get a little messy, so be sure to have some bath mats or towels on hand.
