Just Opened: Mama Says Comics Rock

by Mimi O'ConnorMay 4, 2016

Comic book fans, rejoice! While the NYC storefront comic book scene has lost some key outposts over the last few years, a new spot just set up shop in Brooklyn. Mama Says Comics Rock, a venture from two home grown comic book devotees opened in March, and it’s ready to serve the comic book needs of fans of the form both beginner and hard core.

Mama Says What?
Why the name? Co-owners Davey Kourtesis and Cade Schreger, both Brownstone Brooklyn natives (Kourtesis grew up in Cobble Hill, Schreger in Brooklyn Heights) see the name as a fun shout out to L.L. Cool J. Both men are longtime comic book readers and hobbyists, and were serious enough about the the idea of opening a comic book store that they’d been keeping an eye out for appropriate retail spaces in the area of their old stomping grounds. A Carroll Gardens storefront opened up and Mama Says Comics Rock found its home.

Mama Has What
You’ll find brick walls painted a clean white, nice dark wood floors and a selection of comic books, graphic novels and merch displayed cleanly (i.e. it’s not your father’s — or your — comic book store, with volumes piled high to the ceiling and every inch of space stuffed to the max). In-demand comics are displayed in baskets mounted on the wall to the left; high-profile books and related products can be found on tables in the center of the store; a nice wooden bench provides a spot to peruse the merchandise.

Kourtesis and Schreger promise a little bit of everything when it comes to inventory. Customers will find the top 50 new and ongoing comics series in the store, as well as independent and local comics and publications. Of course, subscriptions/pull lists are available for readers who need to know the latest issue of their favorite series is reserved and waiting for them.

For the Kids
While not every comic book series is appropriate for the tiniest of readers, many are and have plenty of junior fans. Mama Says Comic Rock stocks many titles popular with younger readers, including Amulet, Bone, Lumberjanes and The Simpsons, as well as older titles that still entertain, such as Calvin & Hobbes and Tin Tin.

More Than Just Comics
In addition to selling comics of all kinds, the shop also plans to host events such as signings and readings, art openings (an artist friend’s colorful work adorns the back wall now), and even movie screenings. (Anticipate a Marvel film fest leading up to the release of Captain America: Civil War.) There’s also been some interest in drawing classes, so those may be offered soon. Keep an eye on the store’s events page and Facebook feed for the latest updates. (Psst! May 7 is National Free Comic Book Day, and the store is participating!)

Mama Says Comic Rock
306 Court St.
Carroll Gardens
718-797-3464
Online: mamasayscomics.com

Does your family love comic books? What series is a must-read in your household? Tell us in the comments!

—Mimi O’Connor

Today Is Nature Photography Day

by rtstephenApril 15, 2016

Daily

Presented by:

Today Is Nature Photography Day

It will be gone in a flash.

Go old school today (as in pre-iPhone era) by making your own pinhole camera to capture the world around you. Get our four-step tutorial by clicking here.

Follow in the footsteps of American Girl, Lea Clark as she photographs her exciting adventure in the brand-new movie, Lea to the Rescue.

Inspire your Ansel Adams wannabe with our beginner tutorial that includes three simple tips for documenting nature and a cool nature photography scavenger hunt.

Today’s photo challenge theme: wear an animal mask. Take a photo and share with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Don’t forget to tag #Happy100SanDiegoZoo.

{ Today’s ideas brought to you by American Girl’s Lea to the Rescue }

Ramp up the Fun: Where Skateboarding Kids Can Get Some Air

by rtvictoriamasonAugust 27, 2015

Got a kid who is Jonesing for their own set of wheels? The local skate park might be just the thing. There are plenty of spaces in the District and its surrounding areas for tiny Tony Hawk wannabees to grab some air and perform a few tricks while nabbing a little bit of freedom that comes with a board attached to a few wheels. Get ready to grind and carve with your tyke at these DMV approved parks.

Photo: Allie_Caulfield via Flickr

Maloof Skate Park
Located in Lot 3 (across from the DC Armory) at RFK Stadium, Maloof Skate Park sprung up in 2012 and was created by Pro Skater Geoff Rowley and California Skate parks. This 15,000 square foot space is all about the skate. Inspired by D.C.’s Freedom Plaza and the surrounding Pennsylvania Avenue architecture it is an entirely free space that is perfect for skaters of all ages.

2400 East Capitol St., SE (Armory)
Online: eventsdc.com

Powhatan Springs Park
Another 15,000 skate park in Arlington offers kiddos the chance to practice their ollies and kickflips in an area that is a combination of street-style elements with a mixture of half-pipes and bowls, ensuring a well-rounded afternoon of skating fun that is welcoming to all ages and skill levels with parents picture taking welcomed. Kids 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the skate space and helmets are de rigueur.

6020 Wilson Blvd. (Arlington, Va)
Open: Sun-Thu, Sunrise-9 pm; Fri-Sat, Sunrise-10 pm
Online: parks.arlington.us

Schuyler Hamilton Jones Skateboard Park
If ramps and rails are your little skaters M.O. then a trip to Schulyer Hamilton Jones Skateboard Park is in order. This Alexandria park has a variety of rails to grind on as well as areas where kids can work out their latest tricks. A street course and a small half pipe are located here. This is a sweet spot for a beginner that caters to the younger skating crowd. Skateboarding lessons are also available at the park so your tot can take their skills the next level.

3540 Wheeler Ave. (Alexandria, Va)
703-838-4343
Online: alexandria.gov/recreation

Wakefield Skate Park
When it comes to skateboarding this park means business. Run by the Fairfax County Park Authority it offers up both a Freestyle course and a Competition course. That means twice the fun that’s loaded with bank ramps, grind rails, a four foot quarter pipe a grind box and even a euro gap. Fun for all ages, but especially skate newbies, the park offers camps and classes for little ones ages six and up through the summer months. Take advantage of this fast-paced outdoor time that breaks them away from the electronics.

8100 Braddock Road (Annandale, Va)
Open: Mon-Sat, 7 am-8 pm; Sun, 9 am-8 pm
703-321-7081
Online: fairfaxcounty.gov/parks

Where does your little skateboarder go to practice moves? Tell us in the comments section.

—Victoria Mason

Ride the Wave: Surf Lessons for Locals

by Sonia GandiagaAugust 13, 2015

Let’s go surfing now, everybody’s learning how, surfing in the Bay Area with kids! OK, so The Beach Boy’s song didn’t quite go that way, but we are betting they probably knew about these awesome surf spots in NorCal. The late summer is the best time of year in the Bay Area for beginners since waves are much smaller, the currents less dangerous, and water is warmer. Here are a few of our favorite surf spots and lessons for kids so they can shred away the last days of summer.

Photo: Maui SUP via Flickr

Bolinas Bay

Bolinas is located in Marin county, at the southern end of the Point Reyes National Seashore. Because of Bolinas’ unique coastal position, the surf is protected from the winds and huge swells which make Bolinas one of the safests surfing beaches for beginners.

Bolinas Surf Lessons at 2 Mile surf Shop
At Bolinas Surf they will teach you and your kids the basic surfing fundamentals, as well as ocean awareness, water safety, wave riding skills, and the all-important surf etiquette.

Where: 22 Brighton Ave, Bolinas, Ca

Cost: Weekend Group classes at $50 each. Kids 1 hour Private lessons $80 for first child and $30 for each additional child.

Phone: 415-868-0264
Online: surfbolinas.com
Tip: You can schedule a lesson online

Photo: Lena Smith via Flickr

Linda Mar in Pacifica

This is most well-loved and well-used beach in Pacifica. Just fifteen minutes from San Francisco, this gorgeous beach offers some of the best surfing for beginners in the region. After you and your kids are done riding the waves hit the local food stands to restore your energy!

University of Surfing
University of Surfing is one of the best known surfing institutions in the Bay. They offer Surf 101 beginner group lessons and promise that they will get you surfing in under an hour, and riding waves within your first two lessons. All ages and skill levels are welcome.

Where: Linda Mar in Pacifica State Beach, 1416 9th St, Ca
Cost: $100 for 2 hours
Phone: 650-556-6515
Online: universityofsurfing.com
Tip: Schedule your lessons Online

Photo: Vince Alongi via Flickr

Homebreak Surf Lessons
Formerly known as WB Surf, they took home the prize for best surf lessons in SF Weekly’s Best of San Francisco 2012. Instructors at Homebreak ensure that each student will not only learn to stand during their first lesson but will also learn surf etiquette, wave selection, ocean safety, beach hazards and best practices. They provide lessons for kids of all ages.

Where: Linda Mar Beach, 1416 9th St, Ca
Cost: $75 for one hour or $110 for two hours private lesson.
Phone: 415-797-7873
Online: wbsurflessons.com
Tip: Surfboard and wetsuit included in lesson price.

Image via Homebreak (WB) Surf Website

Cowell’s in Santa Cruz

This is a lovely beach just north of the Santa Cruz Wharf, and a little quieter and smaller than the Main Santa Cruz Beach. It’s great for beginner surfers but it can get a little busy in the water at times.

Cowell’s Surf Shop
This is the place to go if you want to learn how to surf in Cowell’s beach. They state that if your child feels comfortable in the ocean away from the shore, he/she is old enough to surf! They book all lessons around low tides, swell and surf conditions. Tide times change daily and they usually have 4 surfers per instructor in their group lessons.

Where: 30 Front St., Santa Cruz, Ca
Cost: $90 for two hours
Phone: 831-427-2355
Online: cowellssurfshop.com
Tip: The price includes a board and wetsuit for the day.

Image via Sea, Surf and Fun Yelp

The Jetty in Half Moon Bay

This wide sandy beach in Half Moon Bay is located beneath the seawall along Highway 1. The Jetty is also called “Surfers Beach” and it’s for good reason. This popular surf spot doesn’t get as crowded as other beaches, so it’s a great place to ride your first wave.

Sea, Surf and Fun!
This Half Moon Bay surf school offers regular private and group surf classes, but also Girls Session (yoga+surf), team building and summer surf camps. They promise that you will never notice the chill of the water as you paddle around with seals and dolphins summon all of your energy to face the power of the ocean.

Where: 531 Obispo Road, El Granada Ca
Cost: $60 for 2 hour group lesson and $100 for 2 hours of private lesson.
Phone: 415-410-1102
Online: seasurffun.com
Tip: Wetsuits and equipment included in the price.

Are you ready to paddle out? Let us know if you or your kids are planning to ride the waves this summer and where you go to get your surf fix!

–Sonia Gandiaga

Just Opened!: Tech-y Toy Store littleBits Now in NYC!

by alina adamsAugust 5, 2015

Calling themselves “Legos for the iPad Generation,” littleBits, which offers budding inventors ages 5 and up kits of easy-to-use electronic building blocks, recently opened the doors to its first ever New York City pop-up store in Manhattan’s SoHo district. A formal grand opening is planned for August 13, but we dropped in early for a sneak peek. Here’s the scoop on the STEAM-y store your little engineers will be begging to hit up again and again!

The Maker Space

Over half of the impressive 2,200-square-foot store is devoted to various work stations, where kids (and adults) can try their hand at connecting customized littleBits components to form electronic circuits. (This is the basic concept of the toys; the components can then be used to create pretty much anything a user imagines.)

At one table, snapping your Bits together, connecting the result to a USB cable and wrapping it in a strip of colored paper creates an individual, colorful light. String an entire series via wires and you have a blinking design or your name literally spelled out in lights (this is New York City after all, where every kid is a star.)

At another table, you can construct a machine that doodles for you. (Remember that Spirograph you had as a kid? This automates the process!). For more advanced builders — typically age 8 and up— there’s the chance to unleash your inner rock star. Select a cut-out of a guitar off the wall, then stick on your personalized, hand-built circuit that can blink, make noise and vibrate. The keyboard, oscillator, synth speaker and battery are all provided so you can take your show on the road! For tiny engineers especially interested in things that “go”, littleBits has a station where you can add wheels to… pretty much anything. Inventors can then test their creations on a track.

photo: Alina Adams

Can your kid really make something?

Yes! The beginner projects are set up to take about 10 minutes apiece, with the more advanced ones estimated to require 15-20 minutes of work. However, it’s not uncommon for some projects to take longer, with some trial and error to get things just right and working smoothly. In these days of instant gratification, it’s refreshing to see kids struggle at a task, experiment, and try, try again, before ultimately succeeding. The store also makes every aspect engineering and building of process accessible to young minds and tiny fingers.

Playing and Paying at littleBits

Perhaps the best part about the littleBits store is that you are welcome to come in and play for free. You can stay as long as you like, work in as many stations as you like, make as many projects as you like. Visitors to the littleBits store are expected to work on their own, but if they get stuck, they can push a handy button right there on the table, and an associate will come running.

If, in the end, you wish to keep what you’ve constructed, you may purchase the entire kit. Prices for projects mentioned above range from $29.95 for the light kit to $74.95 for the “keytar”, with further add-ons available for an extra fee.

Builders are also welcome to leave inventions at the store for other people to remix, but if your little creator wants to preserve the memory before say good-bye, pop into the photo booth for quick picture. (These left-behind items are dubbed “Inventions to Stay”, littleBits’ version of open-source collaboration.)

photo: Alina Adams

Go Before It’s Gone!

The littleBits Store is open now and will be in this SoHo spot through the end of 2015. Things will be busy while it’s here, with events like weekend workshops and guest speakers. The owners see it as a learning lab, not only for the customers who’ll come in and build things they never dreamed of, but for them, too, as there are plans for establishing a more permanent NYC space down the line.

So run, don’t walk to SoHo: This mecca of family tech creativity and fun will only be open for a littleBit!

LittleBits Store
355 West Broadway
SoHo
917-924-2302 (ext. 102)
Open: M-F: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Sat & Sun: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Online: littleBits.cc/store

Does your kid love littleBits? Share in the comments below!

—Alina Adams

Fore! Great Greens for the Little Golfer

by Sarah OrdodyApril 9, 2015

What’s that you say? Your child hasn’t taken up golf yet? Haven’t you heard that Tiger was swinging his clubs by age 2? Michelle by age 4? Well, even if your retirement plan doesn’t hinge on your kid joining the PGA Tour by high school, junior golf can still be a fun and rewarding activity (emphasis on fun). It’s great for working on those math skills, too! Here we bring you the best kid-friendly courses as well as some need-to-know info on turning your little duffer into a pint-sized pro.

If your kid’s only experience with the sport is playing Flappy Golf on your iPad, they’ll need to learn a few things before teeing up on a course (e.g., golf balls don’t have wings). Is there a golfer in the family itching to take on a student? Perfect! Toss the clubs in the trunk and head to one of the many kid-friendly driving ranges in the Bay Area. (Ask ahead if the range has loaner clubs if you don’t own any.) If you’d rather let a licensed professional handle the instruction, most of these places offer weekend classes and summer camps for all ages and levels.

Once they have a few clubs and some skills in the bag—or at least know when to shout “FORE!”—start them out on a par 3 course where the distances from the tee to the hole aren’t so daunting. Plan to tee off later in the day when there won’t be so many grumps tapping their toes behind you, and the cheaper “twilight” rates kick in. If you suspect you might be seeing your shares of greens, save some green by signing up for a Youth on Course membership and get discounted junior rates on area courses. Some as low as $2 per round!

San Francisco

Golden Gate Park Golf Course
Any discussion of kids and golf has to include this 9-hole par 3 course at the ocean end of Golden Gate Park. When The First Tee organization took over management duties in 2013, they spiffed up the outdoor seating and updated the (very) small driving range. A few tidy stalls and net, plus a putting green are perfect for the beginner just learning to make contact with the ball. The staff actively encourages early participation in the sport, with PGA pros specializing in junior instruction offering private and semiprivate lessons. Or sign up for an after-school or summer camp through The First Tee (ages 6 and up), at Golden Gate Park or Harding Park’s Fleming course. Bonus for adults: Beach Chalet brews on tap!

970 47th Ave.
San Francisco, Ca
415-751-8987
Online: goldengateparkgolf.com

To sign up for The First Tee classes and camps in other Bay Area regions, see:

The First Tee East Bay
The First Tee Contra Costa
The First Tee Silicon Valley

Presidio Golf Course
The golfers tend to be a little more serious about the game here; use it as an opportunity to work on golf etiquette on the practice green. The sizable driving range is surrounded by the Presidio’s stately pines and Eucalyptus. It can get fairly windy here in the afternoons, but sunny mornings can’t be beat. And though it looks awfully inviting, don’t plan on taking the kid on the course until their age and scores are close to double digits. Pop into the Presidio cafe for a post-practice beverage or brunch instead. Course pros offer individual instruction for juniors and summer camps for ages 7 and up.

300 Finley Rd.
San Francisco, Ca
415-561-4653
Online: presidiogolf.com

Peninsula

San Bruno Golf Center
You may have spied the telltale driving range nets just off 280 on your way to the airport from points North. Two levels of stalls plus a grass tee area means there is always an open spot for you and your student to empty a bucket or two of balls. There is no course on site, but the ginormous practice area is great for working on chip shots, putting and hitting out of the sand. Junior instruction is offered on weekends and throughout the summer through Mr. Peter’s Golf Camp (mrpetersgolfcamp.org).

2101 Sneath Ln.
San Bruno, Ca
650-952-1901
Online: sanbrunogolf.com

Mariner’s Point
Between the air traffic from nearby SFO and the wind off the Bay, you shouldn’t come here expecting tranquility. But you will find lots of other families working on their game at the expansive range and practice area. The 9-hole par 3 course has lovely vistas and very few gotchas, so it’s ideal for beginners. It’s even lighted, in case you want to squeeze in a round before bedtime. They offer club fitting service for juniors, too. Lessons are offered throughout the year, including summer camps for ages 7 to 15.

2401 East 3rd Ave.
Foster City, Ca
650-573-7888
Online: marinerspoint.com

From Santa Teresa Golf Club’s Facebook page

South Bay

Santa Teresa Golf Club
Drive, chip, putt, repeat. And when your young charge is ready, head out on the beginner-friendly “short course.” (There’s an 18-hole course here, too.) Private and group instruction is available, including the Little Linksters program for kids 9 and under. Free clinics and discounted greens fees with a Santa Teresa junior golf club membership.

260 Bernal Rd.
San Jose, Ca
408-225-2650
Online: santateresagolf.com

San Jose Municipal Golf Course
The practice area includes lighted (and heated) driving range stalls, chipping green and a practice green with sand bunkers. After school and weekend classes are ongoing, as well as Saturday golf clinics for kids as young as 4 years. The onsite pro shop sells a range of junior clubs, too. There is a regulation-length par 72 course here as well, for when you’re ready to make the leap.

1560 Oakland Rd.
San Jose, Ca
408-441-4653
Online: sjmuni.com

East Bay

Tilden Park Golf Course
While the long and challenging course isn’t recommended for the younger set, the range and putting green are a fine excuse to spend a few hours in this idyllic setting. You might even see some deer roaming the range (no antelope, though). Their highly regarded Junior Academy is offered on weekends for kids 5 and up. (The Nike Golf Camp also takes place here in the summer; see info below.)

10 Golf Course Dr.
Berkeley, Ca
510-848-7373
Online: tildenparkgc.com

Chuck Corica Golf Complex
This aptly named golf “complex” in Alameda has a lighted driving range (with a special junior rate for range balls!), three practice putting greens, and three courses. The 9-hole par 3 course is perfect for young beginners, with most hole lengths hovering around 100 yards. Golf classes for juniors are held throughout the year.

1 Clubhouse Memorial Rd.
Alameda, Ca
510-747-7800
Online: alamedagolf.com

Marin

McInnis Park Golf Center
McInnis Park has the requisite practice green and two-level driving range, plus a 9-hole course, full-service restaurant and bar, an 18-hole mini golf course and batting cages. And they serve up a mean slushie, which you and your little golfer will definitely be craving on those sizzling hot summer days. The course is mostly par 3s, with some par 4s to keep it interesting for more experienced golfers. Bring your sunscreen, as there aren’t many trees to throw shade out there. Weekend clinics and summer camps are available for kids as young as 4.

350 Smith Ranch Rd.
San Rafael, Ca
415-492-1800
Online: mcinnisparkgolfcenter.com

Nike Golf Camp
Nike Junior Golf Camps are held at area courses throughout the summer, both full day and half day. See list of courses and related ages below.

800-NIKE-CAMP
Online: ussportscamps.com/golf/nike/california/

Tilden Park Golf Course, Berkeley (ages 7 to 12)
Monarch Bay Golf Club, San Leandro (ages 7 to 18)
Peacock Gap Golf Club, San Rafael (ages 5 to 15)
Shoreline Golf Links, Mountain View (ages 7 to 17)
Summitpointe Golf Club, Milpitas (ages 7 to 18)
Santa Clara Golf and Tennis Club, Santa Clara (ages 7 to 17)

Good to Know: Many Bay Area Parks & Rec departments offer kids’ golf instruction (generally for ages 7 and up), so check those spring and summer catalogs.

Does your little linkster love to golf? Where does your family go to enjoy a day on the green?

—Sarah Ordody

All images courtesy of the author unless otherwise noted.

For Mini Music Makers: Little Mission Studio

by Erin FeherJanuary 29, 2015

Imagine: Instead of the electronic beeps and blasts of the latest video game, what if your kiddo was filling your home with the sweets sounds of the piano? Clarinet? What if they were singing? The new Little Mission Studio can’t promise video game abstinence, but they can teach your little one how to carry a tune, master the scales and get comfortable with an instrument, from guitar to clarinet to bucket drums (ok, that one might make you beg for them to bring a little screen time back).

The Venue
This spacious music haven in the sunny Mission District offers more than just a place to take one-on-one lessons. There are private practice rooms enrolled students can use free of charge, larger rehearsal spaces so they can jam out with friends, and a performance space that is perfectly suited to the seasonal recitals that students are invited to participate in. The set up is inspired by the ways that the pros work, and students are encouraged to collaborate with their fellow musicians and let their inner artists shine.

Music Makers
Little Mission Studio is headed by three passionate professionals. Claire Plumb is a singer, composer and vocal coach; Matt Rupert is a master of piano and clarinet, and loves introducing kids to the joy of music—he’s taught extensively at schools from Baltimore to San Francisco; Christian Howes is the guy who is going to teach your kid how to bang on things, as he is a professional percussionist who’s kept the beat with award-winning marching bands. All three also teach adult classes at Little Mission Studio, in case you want to make it a family affair (or dream of starting a band a la The Partridge Family).

Broadway-Bound Babes
Your little crooners can now spend their Sundays in the Little Mission Kids’ Chorus or work on their harmonies in A Cappella class. If it’s the bright lights they crave, maybe Broadway Bound is the class for them, or guitar for the beginner. All classes are series classes, and private lessons are booked in monthly packs. There are no drop-ins or single classes offered, so make sure you and your little maestro are ready to commit. Group class series are a great way to gauge interest and see where the music takes them!

445 Hampshire St.
San Francisco, Ca
415.857.3408
Online: littlemissionstudio.com

Do you have a musical child on your hands? Have you enrolled them in lessons anywhere? Tell us in the comments below!

—Erin Feher

All images courtesy of Lit

Discover a Hidden Gem: Archers Afield

by Suzie RidgwayJanuary 23, 2015

If your little Katniss Everdeen or Robinhood has been talking (ok, obsessing) about bows and arrows lately, you’re in luck. Before you shell out dough for your own set, though, check out Archer’s Afield in Tigard, where kids can not only try their hand at archery with real equipment, but they can also learn how to do it right and safely from seasoned pros.

photo: Beginner Lesson by Mark L. via Yelp

Pick a Lane

The first things you’ll notice when you walk in is the wide array of camoflage clothing on rounders for every size and shape. (They even have super pink, baby camo suits!). Past the pro shop, in the back of the establishment, you’ll see a wall of haybales with targets.

Each child has his or her own space to stand, right next to their own knee-high quiver filled with arrows, in front of their own target. The instructors then ask the kids if they’re righties or lefties. They are then instructed to pick out one of the black or white bows hanging on a portable holder that have either right or left imprinted upon them. Kids are given a solid set of safety instructions as they stand in their own lane, including how to wait to go safely remove their arrows from the target haybales, as well as how to pull them out without stabbing someone (or themselves).

photo: Archers Afield lanes by Susan F. via Yelp

Aim for the Bullseye

When the instructor tells them to start, they can take as many shots as they are permitted. If two people are sharing a lane, they usually can take 3 shots. The instructors walk up and down behind them, giving each kid pointers on how to hold, aim and shoot. They finish their turn, then wait until everyone is finished before walking to the hay bales to remove their arrows.

photo: Archers Afield Party Room

Classes and Parties That are on Target

Archers Afield offer a one-hour beginner intro class for kids ages 7 and up for $14, as well as a six-week Big Kids/Little Kids series of one-day-a-week classes for a variety of ages (some as young as 5) for $42/person. All equipment is provided. The range for beginners is set up so that kids under 8 years shoot at targets about five yards away.

Birthday parties are totally fun here. In addition to one of their party rooms, with a smaller range, you’ll get equipment and a mini, as well as a party table for $13/person (8 person minimum). Pizza and paper products are also available from Tigard Pizza Kitchen next door for an extra fee.Insider’s tip: Even though you might think the kids can last a long time, about one hour of shooting seems to be plenty long enough for the interest level (and arm/shoulder strength) of younger kids.

11945 SW Pacific Hwy.
Tigard
503-639-3553
Online: archersafield.com

Is your little one into bows and arrows in a big way? Let us know in the Comments section below!

Scale New Heights with Rock Climbing For Kids

by Shannon GuytonAugust 6, 2014

If you and your kids are ready for an adventurous, challenging activity (sans dirt and heat) look no further than Top Out Climbing in Santa Clarita. Combine state-of-the art climbing walls for every level with cool lounge areas, and you have a great way to spend an air conditioned day. Bonus: the enormous rock climbing gym will wear out even the most active kids. You can thank us for that mega-nap later.

Pick a Wall, Any Wall
Giant walls jut out in strategic angles like a futuristic Bubble Gum Alley. Climbers can choose from the auto-belay roped walls (where retractable straps allow younger and beginner climbers to be safely unassisted from the ground) or bouldering walls (un-roped and killer – in a good way – for your upper arms).

What to Know Before You Go
Kids as young as three can climb, but kids 7 and up will get the most out of the experience here. The most popular wall for kids allows them to climb to the top to a lounge that overlooks the whole facility.

Climbing shoes aren’t necessary, but wear closed toe sneakers if you’re not going to bring or rent ($4) climbing shoes.

Top Out offers birthday parties starting at $150 for eight kids (if you’ve ever had a party outside your house you know this is a steal!), competition leagues for kids 7 and up, and summer camp ($175 per week).

The Cost to Climb
It’s not the cheapest activity you can do, but since the gym only offers full day passes (at $16 each), you can make it last and stay all day. Bring your lunch and plenty of water, and your mommy group or other friends, and take turns supervising kids and conquering your own walls. You can also save money by taking advantage of specials and theme nights, like on the 4th Friday of the month when they offer Family Night passes for $5, or every Tuesday when admission is just $10 for the day.

And Just For You
This is a great place for parents to sweat. In addition to the climbing walls, Top Out Climbing offers basic gym equipment like a treadmill and TRX machine, as well as Yoga classes in a peaceful studio upstairs.

Top Out Climbing
26332 Ferry Court
Santa Clarita, Ca 91354
Phone: 661-288-1813
Online: topoutclimbing.com

-Shannon Guyton

Photo credits: Shannon Guyton, Top Out Climbing

Have you taken the kids rock climbing lately? Where do you go?

Build Your Library! 25 Board Books Every Baby Needs

by Julie SegussDecember 12, 2013

Want to inspire your little sidekick to enjoy a lifetime of reading? Start building her library now. Flip through our photo album to discover our 25 favorite beginner books, from gotta-have-’em classics like Goodnight Moon to newer, need-to-know titles like Hello, Bugs.

Corduroy by Don Freeman

Written in 1976, this yarn about a little overall-wearing bear is still a favorite. It follows the teddy on a button-hunting adventure through a department store and into his new home.

Available at amazon.com, $8.63.

What books are in your baby’s library? Let us know in the comments section below.

— Julie Seguss

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Cover photo: César Rincón via Flickr creative commons

ML Interest Tag: beginner

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