Fuel your busy (and oh-so-early) family mornings with the best breakfasts in Atlanta
On the tail end of summer and school being back in session, schedules are full and a bit hectic again. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day to get your family off to a strong start. Whether you want to beat the sun up or turn breakfast into brunch, these restaurants are serving the best breakfast in Atlanta, with something for everyone. If you’re a family that likes traditional breakfast bites, or even something less conventional, the Atlanta metro area is full of delicious eats. From 14-inch pancakes to the fluffiest eggs in town, head to one of these family-friendly breakfast joints to grab the first fuel of the day with your early risers.
With recipes used from as far back as 1939, Nana's has been serving some of the best breakfast in Atlanta for a while now. They have created a family-style experience and specialize in Louisiana and Maryland cuisine. Kids love using their imaginations to order up all kinds of inventive chicken-and-waffle combos with the Bulid-Your-Own option. Or they can stick with a trusted favorite like Nana's Famous Bananas Pudding Chicken-n-Waffles or the equally delicious Peach Cobbler option. Another fan favorite is the deep-fried cinnamon waffle, a dish crowned with warm peach cobbler, cream cheese, and a shower of powdered sugar.
What kid can turn down french toast, peach cobbler french toast at that? None. This prominent spot to grab breakfast in Atlanta has been featured on CNN and Food Network, among other channels. If you're looking for a restaurant that boasts a nice mix of upscale eats and traditional recipes, this is the place to take your kids. It's truly the breakfast of champions.
Voted “Best Pancakes in Atlanta,” no one can resist syrup and butter-filled flap jacks here (talk about best breakfast in Atlanta!). Let’s see if your kiddos can finish off a 14-inch stack of pancakes. Yep. You heard that right; Oy is serving up hot 14-inch stacks every morning. The pancakes here are extra special because they come in different flavors, such as red velvet and yummy oreo, and they are made with a delicious secret recipe.
There are many variations to breakfast eats, presentation, and even ingredients. Hen Mother Cookhouse is the place for a varied breakfast. They serve up energy bowls to keep parents powered up throughout the day. Especially after allowing the kiddos to indulge in probably one of the best-tasting cinnamon buns of their lives. A must-try is the Banana Bread Chocolate Kolache. And you can rest easy knowing all pastries are made fresh daily in-house.
Breakfast made with a touch of love from Grandma is what early risers get when they come to Hot Betty’s. The motto at Hot Bettys is, “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” That's why families can get breakfast at 8 a.m. or in the middle of the afternoon, as breakfast is served all day. The huge, fresh, made-from-scratch biscuits here are a must-try.
Hours: Open weekdays at 7 a.m.; weekends at 6 a.m.
Snooze Eatery loves the kids and the planet. You can feel good eating here (and not just because the food is fantastic) because 1% of Snooze's sales goes back into the local community, and nearly 90% of their waste is composted or recycled. With fall soon approaching, we suggest trying the new pumpkin-themed menu, everything from vanilla cream cheese–stuffed pumpkin pancakes topped with caramel sauce and a drizzle of sweet cream to a pumpkin latte for parents.
Hours: Open at 6:30 a.m., daily
Locations in North Buckhead, West Midtown & Piedmont Park Online:snoozeeatery.com
Busy weekdays with keeping up with after-school activities and upcoming play dates requires a break. Send the little ones off with friends, while you stay home to enjoy brunch that comes right to your doorstep–or pool. That’s right! Breakfast in the pool right in your backyard is what this local spot dishes up. Parents can wake up early or sleep in, either way they can enjoy a morning with a unique breakfast experience. Just remember—once the kids learn about this, they will undoubtedly want to splash around and enjoy this experience, too.
You can’t go wrong with celebrity sightings and the comfy fried chicken biscuit, a delicious open-faced biscuit with a piece of fried chicken covered in pork sausage gravy. Yes, please! At Home Grown, they make families feel right at home with all locally grown and produced ingredients. This diner is a no-frills, straight-to-comfort food that everyone loves (hint: the Chefs Omelet is a must-try.) How do we know they serve up the best breakfast in Atlanta? It's packed on weekends, so get there early.
No visit is ever the same when you eat at Maple Street Biscuit Company. Every month there are different questions throughout the month for customers. It’s always a party when your family comes here; there is always a Par-Tea waiting. Maple Street Biscuit is unique because they care about the community. They are always giving back or involved in local community fundraisers. Maple Street Biscuit Company keeps giving comfort food and smiles all around.
Shopping is an inevitability but the good news is in 2022 you’ve got choices. From beauty brands that are using untapped resources to make products to mom-invented clothing brands that are easy on children’s skin—ideal for kids with sensitive skin and sensory issues—and easy on the planet, there are even more ways to make little choices that make a big difference. Read on to learn about some eco-friendly brands you’ll feel great supporting.
Therapy Clean
What if cleaning actually changed your mood for the better? That's exactly what happens when you use Therapy Clean. Made with natural fragrances like juniper, lemon zest and eucalyptus, they are scientifically proven to improve your mood! Choose from dish soap, all-purpose, stainless steel, granite and stone, window and glass, wood and cabinet and even tub and tile cleaner. Therapy Clean products are plant based and contain no ammonia, pthalates, bleach or parabens. Additionally, each product is cruelty free and never tested on animals.
You're going to love these sustainable, eco-friendly, reusable food wrappers and snack bags that are perfect for lunchboxes. Gone are the single-use zip bags and in are the sandwich wraps that keep your kid's PB&J secure. We love that these provide a clean eating space for lunchtime. Their snack bags also come in cute designs like pineapples and panda bears so your kids know which ones belong to them. Making small steps to protect our planet is an easy way for you to show your kids how to be environmental stewards.
You're going to love the sleek and lightweight design of the Suga waterbottle from Brand Factory. It's made out of super sustainable sugarcane so you can feel good about adding it to your kid's backpack for school or outdoor adventures. Your coffee cup also got an upgrade from Brand Factory with the Moka coffee cup made from coffee grounds. Available in 12 and 16 oz. sizes and two colors: pebble and sand.
Cleancult is not a fan of single-use plastic, so the brand set out launch their products in the most eco-friendly packaging possible. The free-from-harsh-chemicals products are shipped in recyclable milk cartons that you can toss yourself or send back through the company's mail-back program. Cleancult is proud of its carbon neutral status, biodegradable ingredients and non-irritating formulas.
Developed by a mom and nurse who struggled to find clothing options for her children's sensitive skin and eczema, Crann Apparrel features all-natural fibers, GOTS Certified organic cotton, TENCEL™ lyocell, and hemp with no harmful chemicals or dyes. These clothing are ideal for any child but in particular for children who suffer from sensitive skin, eczema, and sensory issues. All clothing is produced in small batches and is shipped in 100% recycled mailers. Crann Apparel is part of the 1% For The Planet program and currently, offers joggers, sweatshirts, boxer briefs, t-shirts, with more to come!
This woman-owned, mom-founded brand makes high-quality, stunningly beautiful games and activity kits for families that reflect a deep commitment to the community, the planet, and people. The products teach compassion, curiosity, cooperation, inclusion, and respect and the brand promotes recycling and sustainability by choosing FSC®-certified products, vegetable-based inks, and minimal packaging.
Edify is a women-owned, online shop for ethical and sustainable clothing and accessories. All brands listed on Edify must meet their strict values criteriafor sustainability. Shop here for beautiful, unique products that support founder diversity, community impact, sustainable materials and more. Look for items like the Live More Organic Tee ($48) from The Soulshine Co., which is one our favorite small eco-friendly brands based in Los Angeles, CA.
Not only is Everyday Humans a Plastic Neutral Certified company, but they are also a 1% For The Planet Member, WOC/AAPI-owned, and they create some of our all-time favorite sun, skin, and body care products ever. Lately, we’ve been loving the Ease Up PHA Watery Oil Cleanser made with the ultimate upcycled awesomeness: Upcycled Green Fig Extract pressed from repurposed fig stones from food waste! There are tons of antioxidants in this discarded piece of the precious fig. Everyday Humans harnesses it and we are here for it.
Cleanyst is the easiest way to make your own products and save the planet at the same time. Once you purchase the mixing appliance and reusable bottles, you are helping to reduce carbon emissions and single-use plastic waste when you use the concentrate pouches shipped in minimal packaging. Cleanyst products are USDA Certified Biobased, Leaping Bunny Certified, 100% vegan and do not contain animal-derived ingredients. Currently, you can whip up your own shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand soap, household cleaning products and laundry detergent with several fragrance options. Even better, the company's biobased pouches are fully recyclable through a mail-back program that is supported by TerraCycle and its Zero Waste Box program.
Sheets Laundry Club is saving the planet from plastic "one laundry sheet at a time." The company's products are simple and clean and all packaged without plastic! We especially love their signature patented Laundry detergent sheets: pre-measured, dehydrated sheets of detergent that dissolve instantly in the wash and make laundry so easy, the kids can help. Stock up on basics like eco-friendly dryer sheets, scent boosters and cleaning products for the home, each of which reduce your carbon footprint.
You're going to love this Black-owned, woman-owned business that offers nontoxic household cleaners delivered right to your door. April Sargies, founder of Cloth + Bristle, took her more than 25 years of experience in the professional cleaning industry and identified limited options within the market for products that were free of the toxins/chemicals that worked effectively on delicate and fine surfaces. This problem inspired Cloth + Bristle, and the renowned patent pending No. 001 all-purpose cleaning product. You can order up one-time delivery or get it sent to you on the regular via their subscription service.
Finding natural and sustainable beauty products that work just got easier. Cleo+Coco's products are made with plant-based ingredients that have been carefully vetted for quality, potency and safety. Shop cleansing bars, deoderants and dry shampoos/body powders that are safe, nontoxic and synthetic fragrance and filler free. When it come to packaging, Cleo+ Coco's deodorants come in 100% recyclable bottles with compostable refills powders.
Blueland is changing household cleaning with its efforts to eliminate single-use plastic packaging. The company has already diverted close to 2 billion single-use plastic bottles and is a B Proud Corporation Certified brand. You can find soaps, cleaning sprays, laundry and dish products that come in tablet or powder form and are mixed with household tap water that saves both money and space.
It doesn't have to cost a lot to get safe, effective cleaning products. Lemi Shine is made with plant-based ingredients, biodegradable formulas, powerful citric extracts and is free from bleach, ammonia, parabens, gluten and alcohol.
Hello Bello has delved into cleaning with its new plant-based line that comes with vibrant packaging, environmentally-friendly design and pleasant scents. Coming in three products that include a Glass Cleaner, Multi-Surface Cleaner and Wood and Floor Cleaner, each product comes in a reusable bottle and with interchangeable scent pods. The entire line is plant-based and made without synthetic fragrances or dyes, bleach, ammonia, MIT & BIT, gluten or phosphate. Plus, Hello Bello’s reusable bottles results in a 90% smaller carbon footprint and 80% plastic use reduction. The 3-Pack Cleaning Starter Kit is available in lemongrass sage and cucumber scenes and retails for $24.98, making it one of the most affordable sustainable cleaning lines.
Maxi-Cosi knows carrying the future means protecting your little one, and our planet. With the new PureCosi™ product line, they've developed children’s car seats that meet flammability standards through material and design choices, not with added chemicals. Now, you can get the Coral™ XP Infant Car Seat or the Mico XP Max Infant Car Seat with high-quality fabrics that are removable, washable and made without added fire retardant treatments. Plus Maxi-Cosi's cupholders are made without BPA, so your little one can snack happily in their Pria™ 85 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat!
Each&Every is bringing customers natural deodorants, fragrance and shampoo bars with ingredients that are all validated by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The company's lineup of products are vegan, cruelty-free and made with plant-based packaging for deodorants. Tinybeans editors love the natural deodorants that come in 10 fragrance options, are made with just six base ingredients and contain no aluminum, parabens, synthetic fragrances, baking soda or gluten.
Did you know that the majority of fragrance products today use harmful chemicals? Grow Fragrance is different. They use a farm-to-table approach that relies on nature and what’s in season to inform the scents they create–– and they disclose every ingredient used in their products. The brand is a Certified B-Corporation, and are a part of the Leaping Bunny Program and 1% for the Planet initiatives. Grow Fragrance candles are the first-ever certified 100% plant-based, toxin-free candles. and are intentionally designed with sustainability in mind. Each insert is made from aluminum that can be recycled after use.
Grove Collaborative makes getting clean products into your home a breeze. The sustainable home and personal care service delivers a huge variety of sustainable and eco-friendly products to your home, with recurring deliveries as an option. Every product is B-corp certified and all orders are 100 percent plastic neutral. Choose from well-known brands that include Mrs. Meyer's, Seventh Generation, Stasher, method and Babyganics in addition to Grove's own sustainable lineup of products.
We love this option for traveling with your personal care items from Cadence. Meet Cadence, the first magnetic and refillable capsule made from recycled ocean-bound plastic that is designed to effortlessly move with you no matter where life takes you. Pack your vitamins in your purse or bring your favorite shampoo with you when you travel, Cadence is there for it all.
Botanical Origin is here for your laundry needs. The plant-based cleaning brand's formulas are sensitive, hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, that are free from dye and brighteners. Currently, the brand uses between 0-25 percent post consumer recycled plastic with a goal of 100 percent by 2022. You can currently shop two gorgeous fragrances for laundry detergent and softener, Fresh Jasmine & Wild Lavender and Orange Blossom & Citrus Leaves.
Wondercide is the leader in safe and effective pest protection for pets, families, and homes. All products are naturally derived, DEET free, have no harsh chemicals and are safe and effective. In addition, Wondercide is a Green America, gold-certified business for high standards in social and environmental impacts and all their products are made with biodegradable and recyclable packaging. Customers can shop tons of products that include flea and tick spray, skin and haircare for pets, mosquito repellants, indoor and outdoor pest control and more.
After struggling to find hair and beauty products to fit their needs, the Nayel family decided to create their own, and Bare + Bloom was born. Featuring natural ingredients, this eco-friendly skin and hair care line is handcrafted in small batches, and they've got something for every member of the family. New moms will love the nipple butter and the talc-free baby powder, dads will like the soothing shave butter, and kids will appreciate the overnight detangling hair cream. Prices are affordable, and they offer free shipping to 48 states.
Kizik gets that saving time is a top priority for parents and they've come out with two new shoe lines that both offer easy-on technology, Cairo and Madrid Eco Knit. Both are available in a variety of colors and allow the wearer to pop them on without bending down or breaking the heel. Best of all, both were designed using Kizik’s environmentally-friendly fabric made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and the 4-way stretch air mesh upper means it’s breathable so you don’t have to worry about sweaty feet.
Zazubean
Zazubean
Zazubean is a chocolate brand that stands for promoting an ethical and sustainable balance while striving to conserve biodiversity, foster the cycling of resources and making certain that their chocolate would never subject itself to any GMO's or non-organic modalities throughout the entire production process. The brand carries a collection of decadent, smooth, healthy chocolates with NO added sugar or 1/2 added sugar that are sure to hit your taste buds!
Bodhi Beverly Hills uses recycled cardboard for product cartons as well as glass containers for packaging to eliminate plastic waste. As a brand that is 100% Cruelty Free Vegan, Toxic and Made in the USA, the Natural Dream Beyond Peppermint Exfoliating Cleanser is the perfect wakeup to any morning routine. Bold and invigorating peppermint deeply cleanses the skin while using natural oils and extracts to gently exfoliate the face and body.
HOMMEFACE was created to give skincare solutions that are easy, simple, safe, but still effective. To reduce waste, their products come in “long-lasting volume” meaning their large bottle sizes enable the consumer to use the products without the need to frequently replenish them.
The Daily Skincare Trio Set is a 3-step skincare set for men that is made with no alcohol and only natural ingredients while providing healthy skin & a better shave experience. The set includes: Daily Face Wash, Herbal Spray Toner and Face Moisturizer. All products are vegan, natural, certified cruelty-free and include no parabens or SLS.
We love that Viviobarefoot is thinking about our planet. They just launched their shoe amnesty program which allows customers to return their footwear through reconditioning, re-commerce platform, ReVivo with the option to receive 20% off of a new pair of Vivobarefoot shoes or have a donation made on behalf to the LiveBarefoot Foundation, an in-house incubation that pioneers regeneration solutions for environmental and social problems.
Branch Basics
Getting rid of harmful chemicals and swapping for nontoxic cleaning alternatives just got easier. Branch Basics best-selling multi-purpose Concentrate makes cleaning simple with a nontoxic formula that is safe for families and can be mixed with water to make a variety of cleaners, including bathroom, all-purpose, hand soap and even laundry soap. Each product is human safe, plant and mineral-based, biodegradable, non-GMO, not tested on animals and free of harmful preservatives.
Style plus sustainability intersect with these bags from Handed By. Made of 70% recycled plastic, the bags aren't mass produced in factories, instead, the company collaborates with dedicated craftspeople to hand weave small-scale production runs and in doing so, forms long-term personal partnerships. We could totally see loading one of these up with your favorite snacks and taking it for a day at the beach.
Green Goo is all about using plants in their huge lineup of skincare, soaps, first aid, sanitizer, mama and baby and even animal care products. They are made with plant-based ingredients that are gentle, effective, cruelty-free, and sustainably sourced. All products are free from petrochemicals, parabens, phthalates and other dangerous additive. Because they are free from chemicals, many of their items can be used on multiple needs at once, which means less products crowding your medicine cabinets, and more non-toxic goodness.
A favorite when it comes to eco-friendly brands, Public Goods is your one-stop-shop for sustainable grocery, household, and personal care products. The marketplace's affordable and good for the planet products are eco-friendly and simply designed, in simple black and white. For an annual membership of $79, members get access to cruelty-free manufacturing, sustainable packaging, tons of vegetarian and vegan options, gluten free, no harmful chemicals, zero waste, biodegradable and compostable products.
Boob Design: A Nursing Collection You'll Wear Long After You're Done Feeding Baby
When you're a sleep-deprived new mom, 3 a.m. impulse buys of ill-fitting nursing clothes may seem like a good idea. But for styles that'll make you look and feel your best—and are kind to the environment—there's no better option than the nursing collection from Boob Design. They make garments with a purpose, meaning their designs are intentionally meant to be worn from bump to toddlerhood and beyond. All their styles are made of sustainable materials that are traceable from fiber to final garment and they only work with factories that respect their code of conduct. Plus, they're GOTS-certified (learn more about their sustainability code of ethics here). Bottom line: Boob Design knows what's best for the environment and for new moms. What more could you want? Online: boobdesign.com
Snapper Rock: Sustainable Swimwear Made from Recycled Products
In January of this year swimwear brand, Snapper Rock released Oceania, their first sustainable swimwear capsule collection made from recycled products. The reef-inspired collection features their signature UPF50+ technology and includes styles for parents and kids that range from bikinis to rash tops to board shorts, baby sets and more. According to Snapper Rock, “by selecting recycled materials, [they] can reduce the consumption of nonrenewable resources, such as oil and coal, reduce water and energy use, and help to clean up our beaches and oceans from discarded waste.” Sounds like a win-win to us. Online: snapperrock.com
Dyper: The Compostable Diaper
Dyper
In the past, if you wanted eco-friendly diapers, your only choice was cloth diapers...until now. Month-to-month subscription service, Dyper is giving parents another option for diapering with their chemical-free and totally compostable diapers. Durable, absorbent and free of all the chemicals, inks and phthalates you want nowhere near baby, Dyper’s goods are convenient (manage your deliveries using the website or mobile app) and affordable ($68/month). Running out of diapers? Rely on Dyper’s service that sends extra diapers within 4-24 hours. Plus, with each order of their compostable diapers, the company purchases carbon offsets on behalf of the customer.
Dyper has partnered with TerraCycle on ReDyper, a composting program where subscribers can opt-in and receive bags and a specially-designed box to send diapers out for compost. Subscribers can download a prepaid shipping label and all waste composted will be used in projects such as vegetation in highway medians.
Finnish-based brand Reima is no stranger to kids activewear. Expect bright, bold prints, non-toxic waterproof finishes and materials that include recycled polyester and biodegradable, mulesing-free wool. Their current winter collection includes fan favorites like the Silda Reflective Jacket that’s designed with reflective prints to keep your kiddo safe, Kinsei, a quick drying wool base layer that allows for less micro plastic shedding in washes, and the Nalle, a winter suit for baby designed using plastic bottles. Keep an eye out for Reima’s upcoming seasonal collections, which we’re guessing will be just as impressive as this winter’s one. Online: us.reima.com/
Apple Park: Whimsical Toys & Clothes for Baby & Kids
Apple Park
After having her firstborn 10 years ago, mom Angie Ting discovered that eco-friendly, organic and hypoallergenic toys and clothes for baby just weren’t widely available. Her disappointment led to the inception of Apple Park, which today is known for colorful and whimsical toys, clothes and accessories. Their newest Organic Farm Buddies collection, launching March 2020, starts at $11 with nothing over $37. Expect fun hippos, flamingos, zebras and more, all made with organic fibers and sustainable ingredients. Online: applepark.com
Luxury doesn’t equate to cruelty. At least that’s the way Rivers Eight sees things. Their luxe handbags and travel accessories are faux skin, and to the naked eye may get PETA riled up. But, rest assured the entire hand-crafted collection is cruelty-free and made right in L.A. A current fan favorite is this 3-in-1 bag, which is a fold-over belt bag, cross-body bag and clutch all in one. So go ahead and celebrate the animal kingdom with Rivers Eight, all without negatively impacting their population. Online: riverseight.com
Rothy’s: Put Your Best Foot Forward with These Kid Sneakers
Rothy’s has a cult following amongst women so it’s only natural that they’re just as popular with the pint-sized set. Check out their girls’ loafer line and their slip-on shoe that every kid can wear. The latter—tested out by active, busy kids—are washable and offered in 10 different colors and prints inspired by the bright colors of the 1970s. Both shoes feature a stretchy knit made out of recycled water bottles and are machine washable. Online: rothys.com.
There is one thing a family can never have too many of: bags! From totes to kid backpacks to duffles and adult-sized backpacks, Parkland is your go-to spot for functional bags with a punch of attitude and style. The exterior fabric of all bags is made from recycled water bottles (check out this cool video explaining the process here) and their mission is all about inspiring others to make sustainable choices. Now, that’s a brand (and mission!) we can get behind. Check out all of Parkland’s products, including their brand-new spring line, at parklandmfg.com.
It may be hard to grasp life without plastic, but we have an easy step to take to help get you closer to that goal. Choose Bee’s Wrap, an alternative to plastic bags, tupperware and saran wrap. Made of organic cotton, sustainably harvested beeswax, jojoba oil and tree resin, use them to wrap around veggies, cheese, fruit, snacks, sandwiches or really, any food products. They’re lightweight and reusable (clean by washing with cool water and light soap) for about a year. After you’re done, compost or use as a fire starter for your next camping trip. Multiple options available at beeswrap.com.
Kinder Birch: GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton Onesies
Kinder Birch, a new clothing company that debuted just this year, is disrupting the organic baby clothing space. Their styles are all GOTS certified Organic cotton and all printed with low impact dye. The patterns are whimsical, fun and playful, with the actual fabric thick enough to withstand rough and tumble play, while being oh-so-soft for baby's skin. Toddler PJs and more styles coming soon. Available at kinderbirch.com.
CrayonBlocks: 100% Biodegradable Beeswax Crayons (Created by a Dad!)
If Junior is into art, but you’re worried about what type of unsafe materials he’s coming into contact with, you’re not alone. The dad creator beyond CrayonBlock felt the exact same way when his son licked a crayon and realized his child was tasting paraffin. Thus, the idea of CrayonBlocks was born. This dad-created line of crayons is 100% biodegradable, paraffin- and chemical-free, certified organic beeswax with food grade colors that conform to the strictest of standards. Not only that, but the crayons also feature 8 edges and 8 corners making them easy to grip and draw. Available at crayonblocks.com for $13.99.
Recover Brands: Tees Made of Recycled Water Bottles
Every day—not just Earth Day—is a teachable moment to show your kids how to really care for Mother Earth. Remind her of this daily with a “Protect Our Parks” tee from Recover Brands. This brand makes their goods from recycled water bottles (check out the process here). Bonus: their apparel also comes in adult sizes, too! Available at recoverbrands.com for $18.
There are so many awesome companies that make going plastic-free easy and Stasher is one of our favorite eco-friendly brands. Their goods are all 100% pure platinum food-grade silicone that are easy to clean, reusable and non-toxic. We think Stasher bags stand out because you can not only store snacks for easy access (the bags are super easy to open and close for little hands), but you can also microwave, place in the oven, store in the freezer, boil on the stove and wash in the dishwasher. Versatile and functionality at its best. Available online at stasherbag.com.
Aldea Home + Baby: Eco-Friendly Furniture with a Conscious
Fans of modern, eco-friendly brands should check out the kid's collection and baby registry from San Francisco’s famed home goods store Aldea Home + Baby. The store prides itself on carrying only items from sustainable artisans and socially conscious design companies, so you can feel good about purchasing items that look this great. Not in the Bay Area? You can still get in on the goodness by shopping online at aldeahome.com.
Sustainable LEGO Bricks: Your Favorites Made Better
The LEGOs you know and love are in for some big changes. In an effort to create zero waste, the company is producing LEGO bricks made from plant-based materials, but you likely won’t notice at all. LEGO just announced in early 2018 that it has started production on sustainable blocks made with materials sourced from sugarcane. The plant-based polyethylene is softer but still durable. Despite these new changes, LEGO promises that builders won’t notice a difference in the look or feel of the bricks. Learn more here.
—Erin Lem, Shahrzad Warkentin, Eva Cerise and Karly Wood
Inclusivity can be taught from a very young age and these companies are doing their part to make the toy landscape a diverse one. From a doll that looks like your child to one that teaches about their medical condition, diverse toys can make us feel valued as humans and show us that there’s a whole world beyond our front door.
Barbie Inspiring Women Series
Showcasing women who've made the world a better place through determination and fighting for justice and equal opportunity, Barbie's Inspiring Women Series includes change makers like Eleanor Roosevelt, Dr. Maya Angelou, and Hellen Keller. Now the collection has a new doll: civil rights activities and women's suffragette, Ida B. Wells.
Wells co-founded the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) which fight for freedom, justice, and equal opportunity to this day. Not only does the doll pay homage to this history-making woman, but Barbie has also partnered with Girls Write Now, a non-profit organization that removes gender, race, age, and poverty barriers to mentor future writers and leaders.
Teni and Tayo Creations are excited to share a piece of Africa with young children. Omobola Imoisili founded the brand after relocating to L.A. from Nigeria and wanting to give her small daughters something representative of their heritage while they attend school. Brand mascots Feyi Fay, a superhero fairy, and Captain Nosa, a Nigerian scientist, and superhero, encourage kids to do well in school and promote a love of learning in all the brand’s offerings. From STEM toys to books and apparel, there are diverse toys available for everyone.
ISH Dolls creates diverse toys and clothing that celebrate culture and the Hindu faith. Their colorful plush dolls are designed to bring joy to children of all backgrounds and to introduce them to the avatars found in Hindu culture. This mom-owned business launched at the height of the pandemic in May 2020 with its first plush, Baby Krishna, and followed up with his companions Rahda, Durga and Baby Lakshmi.
Everything—and everyone—is awesome! Inspired by the rainbow flag of the LGBTQIA+ community, LEGO's “Everyone is Awesome” 346-piece set features 11 unique monochrome figures with individual colors and hairstyles. Once completed, it’s the perfect size for a desk or window display, to bring a colorful pop to life every day.
Qai Qai is no ordinary doll; since appearing on social media alongside Serena Williams, Alexis Ohanian, and their daughter Olympia, Qai Qai has amassed thousands of followers of her own. According to Serena Williams, "When we first opened @RealQaiQai's account on Instagram two years ago, it was just supposed to be an inside joke, but we've come to realize that Qai Qai could be the beginning of a new kind of toy story, and one that we're excited to help bring to life so our daughter and millions of other children can see and play with more toys that look like them."
Your heart will melt at the cute offerings from Red & Olive. Not only are the knit ethical dolls adorable, but they also help support the artisans who handmake each one. Each fair trade doll is handmade by Peruvian artists, empowering them to provide for themselves and their families. The companion dolls come with either matching beanies or bows.
Celebrate the culture and traditions of India with Modi Toys. This family-owned small business offers plush diverse toys and gift baskets that feature Baby Ganesh, Baby Krishna, and Baby Hanuman along with books that explain their history. You can even personalize the plush toys with a baby's name—the perfect gift for a new arrival.
Diversify your child's bookshelf with the help of The Little Feminist Books Club. When you select the 7-9 age group, you will get two paperbacks or one hardcover book each month, along with a hands-on activity that goes along with the book, a discussion card, and a parent letter explaining why the book was chosen.
The Healthy Roots Doll Zoe is a life-like 18” doll with hair uniquely designed with curl power that allows it to be washed and styled, giving kids the chance to learn more about how to care for their curls by practicing on hers. The inspiration for Zoe came from Yelitsa Jean-Charles, a young woman—who like many others—never had a doll that looked like her growing up.
Kids can use real products and try out countless styles from puffs to box braids! Zoe learned to love her hair after she did the big chop with her mom. Together they learned how to love every single one of her curls. Now she’s here to help other girls learn to love their curls.
Check out these dolls for girls on a mission to change the world. Inspired by their upbringing in Brooklyn, New York, twin sisters Laken and Carlissa King sought to create dolls that spark creativity and celebrate togetherness.
Worldgirls are 18-inch dolls representing girls from around the world who are chosen to attend the top-secret school, Worldgirls Hall. Each Worldgirl is assigned 1 of 5 traits: WARRIOR, HEALER, EXPLORER, REBEL, and SCHOLAR. The company created the traits so children could connect with the dolls' unique passions rather than their looks.
When Dr. Lisa Williams, CEO & Founder of the only Black-owned major doll company, saw the psychological implications of the importance of your toy box no matter your race or ethnicity, she created the Positively Perfect Dolls for younger children. In recent years her company has created The Fresh Dolls featuring black and multicultural fashion dolls and accessories. The Fresh Dolls were intentionally created with fuller hips and thighs, and a more realistic waistline, with trendy fashion pieces. New this year is their Wakanda Forever superhero line!
If you’ve ever had the frustration of finding dolls that look like your family (or friends!), you’ll LOVE this. Multiracial families, same-sex families, single-parent families, and adoptive families can now construct dolls that capture the beautiful reality of their households. MyFamilyBuilders is a unique, educational wooden diverse toy that is stackable and magnetic to create the perfect doll.
Created by single adoptive mom Kayla Lupean, Play Maysie is a portable, customizable world in a case for the pint-sized bunch. Noted as “everything a dollhouse should be,” this diverse toy is a gender-neutral classic childhood favorite that is made for adventures. Play Maysie’s design was inspired by the nostalgia of vintage tin lunchboxes. It folds out on both sides to showcase interchangeable, magnetic rooms with fixed wooden furniture—built for frustration-free play, less mess and no more lost pieces! With an eye on teaching sustainability, each Play Maysie is made of eco-friendly, renewable materials for indoor and outdoor play either at home or on the go.
At the core of the company's mission, for every three Play Maysie cases purchased, they will donate another one to a child who is entering the foster care system. Their hope is, with an integral sense of ownership, foster youth can open their Play Maysie case at any time to create an experience where they feel safe, secure, and in control during a time where nearly everything in their world is unfamiliar.
While you might be used to seeing ribbon wands in rainbow or pastel colors, the Melanin Magic Ribbon Wands are a celebration of melanin. Kids need to see all skin tones all together all on the same toy. Each ribbon deserves a place and the rainbow would look incomplete if it were missing one. These simple toys make a wonderful gross motor skills tool for dancing, twirling, jumping, and shaking. They also make a great conversation starter for kids. Purchasing one of these diverse toys support Brown Babes Rep Too, an organization dedicated to ensuring a diverse environment in small business advertising.
Dolls with Autism, Dwarfism and Hearing Loss from Lottie Dolls
Lottie Dolls introduced a doll inspired by an autistic boy who loves astronomy. The diverse toy comes with an astronaut-in-training jumpsuit, companion dog, noise-reducing headphones, and sunglasses to reduce visual sensory overload.
Lottie Dolls offers dolls that highlight diversity, including the Mia doll, a wildlife photographer with a cochlear implant, and the Sinead doll, the world's first doll with dwarfism.
Crystal Kaye is the artist behind Kay Customz. Not only are Crystal’s custom dolls cute, but they’re also inclusive. She goes beyond creating dolls in a few different skin tones, and makes dolls with freckles (and not just the traditional two or three that are meant to look cute but don’t really represent what a normal person looks like freckles), vitiligo and albinism.
Build-a-Bear & Vermont Teddy Bear Company Amputee Bears
For kids with limb differences, Build-a-Bear and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company are there to create a bear with the same limb difference. Both offer customization that allows this treasured bear to match its owner.
Differently-Abled Dolls from Barbie's Fashionistas Line
The Barbie Fashionistas line, which already includes Barbie dolls with various body types and hairstyles, also offers two differently-abled dolls. The first doll is in a wheelchair and the second is fitted with a prosthetic leg. “As a brand, we can elevate the conversation around physical disabilities by including them into our fashion doll line to further showcase a multi-dimensional view of beauty and fashion,” Mattel said.
To encourage their daughter's interest in African culture, two parents created this doll company with different shades of skin complexions and hair textures available. They even have a buy-one-gift-one program!
Inspired by the letter from a six-year-old girl, the iconic green army men sold by BMC Toys now have an addition—women soldiers. They are available in four different military poses
The idea was inspired by Matthew Shifrin who was born blind and loved to play with LEGO bricks. As a child, he had a friend, Lilya who would painstakingly write down all of the LEGO building steps so that he could upload the written directions into a system that translated them in a Braille reader. For the first time in his life, he was able to build LEGO sets entirely on his own.
When Lilya passed away, Shifrin decided he wanted to share his experience with others like him. A friend from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology introduced him to the Creative Play Lab at LEGO Group and his wonderful idea was developed into the LEGO Audio and Braille instruction. LEGO also has LEGO Braille bricks!
With dozens and dozens of looks to choose from in the Truly Me collection, your child can bring home an American Girl doll who brings out exactly who they are. From singing to soccer to so much more, every child can find outfits and accessories to match their interests.
Kids can even have their dolls fitted with a prosthetic leg by the company A Step Ahead Prosthetics.
Lakeshore Learning's People with Differing Abilities
We all want our kids to be open-minded, but in order to understand other people's differences, it's important that kids see those differences first-hand—and talk about them. Lakeshore Learning's People with Differing Abilities include people with realistic details and adaptive equipment—from a girl in a wheelchair to a boy with leg braces. For younger kiddos, Lakeshore also has a "Soft and Safe" version of these diverse toys that feature children with various disabilities.
If you've got a superhero-loving kid who wants a doll—but not that kind of doll—Wonder Crew dolls are the perfect addition. The collection of boy dolls was designed to have the "adventure of an action figure with the emotional connection of the favorite stuffed animal." They're soft and perfect for cuddles, but they're also superheroes. What's even cooler? Each doll comes with two masks and capes: One for the doll and one for the kid who plays with it. Genius.
By taking care of Jerry's diabetes, children gain hands-on practice with counting carbs, monitoring Jerry's blood sugar and dosing Jerry with insulin. Kids care for Jerry using the virtual diabetes tools and the digital pantry in the product's app.
Follow along with Jerry's journey to train for the All-Stars Games! All 21 interactive storybooks are paired with care tasks to reinforce important diabetes lessons. The curriculum is co-designed with doctors, educators and families to create educational content that kids love.
Do you know what's not empowering? Dolls with body proportions that are impossible to have in real life. That's why the makers of Lammily Dolls decided to make a collection of dolls using proportions akin to the average 19-year-old American woman. That means everything from the hands, arms, and neck to the waist, legs, and feet are realistic. The makers hope that playing with "normal" dolls will help young girls see their own bodies more positively (because sadly, studies show girls start worrying about their looks by age five).
Diversity is the name of the game when it comes to this line of dolls. Maru and Friends dolls are making a statement, and it’s one that’s long overdue. These dolls are more than just pretty playthings. Maru and Friends tell the tale of life as an immigrant. And your child can learn Maru’s story, as well as what it’s like for her friends to grow up in America.
This line of dolls and accessories was created by Cynthia Watkins and Kathryn Burnett, a mother-daughter duo, in 2017. Different skin tones, sizes, and hair types are available and each doll is handmade with painstaking detail given to outfits with the ability to match a specific outfit if desired.
This award-winning game matches faces to countries. Twenty-four pairs of illustrated cards depict the happy faces of children from all over the world and make for a fun and educational memory game. At times challenging, the game helps sharpen recognition and memory skills. The back of the game box shows which country each child is from.
Great for multicultural arts and crafts activities. This set includes 10 sheets of each of these five colors: Manila, Salmon, Light Brown, Brown and Dark Brown.
Adding self-care during your daily errands with kids in tow makes everyday life much more fun. So, we’ve rounded up the best kid-friendly nail salons where you can enjoy a manicure and pedicure with your kids. From kid-sized chairs to super sweet staff, these are our go-to spots for carving out a little bonding time, not to mention great nails. So, get ready to enjoy a precious moment of pampering and polish with your kids.
This kid-friendly nail salon offers a Miss Priss mani for $10, a pedi for $20 or a mani-pedi combo for $30 for ages 10 and under. They have nine locations in the greater Atlanta area, so your kids can get the royal treatment no matter where they reign.
Insider tip: Although nothing beats an impromptu mani-pedi, you can make an appointment online and save yourself the wait.
Locations in: Buckhead, Chastain, VA-HI, Vinings, Midtown and Norcross.
Under new management, this Black-owned salon is proud to be a part of the Atlanta community. They’re excited to grow their business and give back to the community in a big way. Little ones are welcome for the mani/pedi service from their kind staff. Customers are raving about the new salon on the block.
This Brookhaven hot spot has multiple locations across town, but we love the Dresden Drive location’s proximity to shopping (did someone mention Costco?). You’ll be in and out in a jiffy at this kid-friendly nail salon. And who can resist the kid-sized chairs and efficient, courteous staff?
1418 Dresden Dr., Ste. 110
Brookhaven, GA Online: hammondnails.net
Using only products fresh from the garden, you never have to question a product ingredient at this innovative yet comfortable-as-home spot in Castleberry Heights. With offerings beyond nails, this kid-friendly nail salon even has a Skincare Chef who hand-picks fresh fruits, veggies and herbs from the farm. Then juices and mixes them into a powder base used to make skincare recipes. For a sweet manicure and pedicure that runs $29, kids love getting their hands and toes sprinkled with chocolate and a raw brown sugar scrub during a service crafted just for them.
Drop in for a celebrity salon treatment with one of the salon owners, self-proclaimed twin manicurists to the stars. Join their client list, which includes Queen Latifah, Usher, Faith Evans, Demi Moore, Katherine Heigl, Beyonce and so many more. They offer a special manicure and pedicure for kids under 5.
Get ready to enjoy tiny, pampered hands and feet with this salon’s extensive children’s services menu. Treatments include cuticle softening, cleaning, nail trim, shaping, buffing, callus treatment and massage. Customers rave about the friendly staff and their great attention to detail and service.
This place does it all for parents and kids. Book a polish for toes and nails, grab a haircut and even get those little ears pierced. Their goal is to make the salon experience enjoyable for the entire family.
While it’s important to shop locally every day, we love highlighting local Black-owned businesses in Atlanta during Black Business Month. That’s why we’ve assembled just a short list of black-owned businesses—among many—that cater to kids and families around Atlanta. So the next time you’re looking for a great new book, need to get your nails done with your kiddos in tow, or want to cool off with a scoop of Atlanta’s best ice cream, be sure to shop one of our favorite businesses.
Medu Bookstore is one of the largest African-American owned businesses in Atlanta Georgia, and has been in business since 1989. For three decades, t’s owner, Nia Damali, has created a place where customers can access hard-to-find and rare prints along with popular titles.
Insider Tip: Be sure to check out their events calendar for the latest on story times, book signings, and lectures.
iwi Fresh makes products with raw powder and fresh juice-based vegetables, fruits, and herbs in glass containers to insure the sustainability of their products and the environment. This garden spa environment looks and feels like a botanical garden. In addition to their retail area, iwi Fresh Garden Day Spa also offer spa services—including mommy and me pedicures—with plans to grow even more this fall. 341 Nelson. St. Atlanta Online:iwifresh.com
SustainAble's founder saw an opportunity to unite people from all walks of life through commerce. Believing in the inherent worth and value, skills and talents that we all have to offer each other, founder LaToya Tucciarone thinks that the retail industry is the perfect place for the world to meet. According to her, "Marginalized people groups all over the world have been creating magnificent works of art for centuries! Unfortunately, a lot of these groups live in some of the poorest places on the globe. Commerce gives us the opportunity to bring dignity and financial stability to these people groups, while also getting to have a beautiful piece of their culture in our homes." Which we think is pretty cool.
Expect the highest-quality standard flavors, like the award-winning salted caramel, in addition to out-of-this-world innovative ones (strawberry rosewater, anyone?) at this Atlanta ice cream institution
London Grant Co. is a Black-owned bodycare company founded by mompreneur Tiffany Staten. The multi-purpose handcrafted body products from the Minimalist Collection are a lineup of small batch, non-toxic, fragrance-free butters, oils and scrubs—perfect for every family member. If you're only going to try one, start with the Cocoa & Jojoba Body Soufflé ($22). It's a perfectly-whipped body butter that is great for hydrating the skin and improving elasticity.
Plant Based Pizzeria serves vegan and gluten free pizza made from the freshest ingredients. Their vegan pizza is made from spelt flour, and they have loads of great tasting, healthy pizza options. Try the Georgia Peach, made with roasted basil pizza sauce, vegan mozzarella cheese, spicy beyond sausage, roasted peaches, red onions, and jalapeños.
Purchase a handmade scarf, throw or blanket from a list of 26 assorted colors, and you'll never lack for the perfect movie or morning cartoon-watching blanket again. Nani makes all of her products with organic chenille yarn, and you can see her assortment of styles and DM all orders on her Instagram: @chunkyknitsbynani.
This delivery service is committed to pressing and delivering the freshest, healthiest juice right to your doorstep. Serving the entire City Of Atlanta and a large portion of the surrounding cities, they'll press your juice fresh and deliver it within 24-48 hours directly to your home. Be sure to check out their Kiddie (Juice) Cocktails that contain blends most appealing to a child.
Some things are worth the calories. Cami Cakes is one of those things. These incredible cupcakes come in the standard flavors and in two sizes (we highly suggest going for the regular, not the mini size), in addition to creative combinations, like sweet potato, The Elvis (peanut butter and banana), and cookie butter. Three metro locations mean you're never too far from a bite of better.
Inside Lenox Square Mall 3393 Peachtree Rd. N.E. Atlanta, GA
This neighborhood bike shop is as friendly as it is helpful. Whether you're looking for a community ride or bike event, or are just hoping to get some flair for your wheels—or purchase a new pair of them for everyone in your family—Clutch can help. They're currently practicing social distancing, so give them a call to make an appointment before heading in. And if you can't get to the shop, Aztec Mobile can come to you.
Olive Branch Wellness Boutique is a green beauty marketplace with a focus on vegan, organic and all natural skincare, haircare and body care products. If it's not clean, they won't carry it. Best of all? They offer Atlanta-area delivery.
For a kid, there’s nothing more exciting than a birthday party. And having a great birthday cake—one that tastes good and looks cool—is an important part of their special day. No matter what your child’s superhero, video game or character obsession du jour may be, you will find a Chicago bakery to create a canvas for those candles. Here are our favorites. Make a wish!
Break the cake mold and dream beyond the traditional sheet cake with one-dimension designs. Having served as Executive Pastry Chef at downtown hotels and winning or placing in several design competitions, Chef Peter Rios’ Alliance Bakery is ready to show you that if you can think it, he can bake it. Besides his 3-dimensional edible works of art, Chef shows off skills he picked up training in Paris with his European-inspired pastries and desserts.
Some people prefer an ice cream cake to a traditional cake with frosting, but still want it to be as special and unique as the guest of honor. That is exactly where Bartleby’s comes to the rescue! Using the finest ingredients, the cakes are made fresh to order, including the ice cream, and can be customized in any combination of flavors your heart desires. You can also find vegan and gluten-free options, too.
Check site for rotation of pick-up locations around Chicago; Online: bartlebyscakes.com
Let’s face it: Some of us are a little more last-minute with party planning than others. If you find yourself cakeless the day of, you could either pull through the nearest Portillo’s drive-thru and enjoy the reaction when you order an entire chocolate cake with a side of cheese fries or you could find a bakery with amazing pre-made cakes. Bennison’s, a North Shore institution since 1938, is one of those gems that stocks delicious 7” and 9” chocolate and yellow cakes with either fudge or buttercream icing. Ask them to fancy it up with the birthday celebrant's name and you’re good to go.
Gluten-impervious baker Johanna is only sensitive to wheat in the way she feels that every person should have the ability to enjoy worry-free heavenly desserts. She took on and conquered the challenge of making desserts that were indecipherable from their glutenized counterparts. For kids who might be gluten-sensitive or for anyone just looking for a delicious cake to celebrate their special day, call or send Johanna an email to place an order. Keep your eyes peeled while you’re out and about, you might find samples of these gluten-free goodies at your nearest Whole Foods or coffee shop in addition to their Andersonville storefront.
Paralegal by day and baker by night, owner Elisa baked her first birthday cake in 2014 for her daughter’s 4th birthday. After six years of keeping her love of baking a “hobby”, she relocated to Chicago and turned her hobby into a thriving business. And, we are oh so glad she did! Reach out today and see for yourself just why Elisa’s Cake by the #Pound was named one of the “50 Best Black-Owned Bakeries in the US” by Travel Noire.
Eméché means “tipsy” in french, and owner Janell got her start making alcohol-infused cupcakes for her friends and neighbors while living in Brooklyn. Soon the orders became so frequent that Eméché was born and materialized as a brick & mortar store back in her hometown of Chicago. While the menu offers a full variety of pastries, drinks, cheesecakes and treats, the birthday cakes are amazing. The buttercream alone has amassed quite a fan club. As a bonus, online ordering makes ordering a cake a breeze.
It doesn’t get any more old school than Chicago’s oldest family-owned bakery, which has been servicing Humboldt Park sweet tooths since 1911. As a specialty, Roeser’s offers low-glycemic options for birthday boys and girls who could benefit from reduced sugar, carbs and calories. Follow the bakery’s iconic neon sign to find cakes baked using recipes perfected over 4 generations with culinary skills to decorate to any theme you could possibly imagine, including a wide variety of licensed character cakes. Pop into Roeser’s Party Palace next door to tick decorations off your birthday planning checklist.
When you hit up Sweet Mandy B’s you can’t fight the urge to slow the pace and plant yourself to savor whatever treasure you find in the glass encasement and soak up the old-school nostalgia. One taste of their icing will have you wishing you had a vat full and a giant spoon. Call the bakery or stop in to place your special cake order and enjoy the warmth the pastel colors and old-fashioned decor evokes.
1208 W. Webster Ave., Lincoln Park & 254 E. Ontario, Streeterville; Online: sweetmandybs.com
Inspired by her son’s, and subsequently her own, celiac diagnosis and lack of quality baked goods available in 2007, Ali Graeme set out to blaze gluten-free trails. After playing in her kitchen with different blends of flour and receiving encouragement from family, she opened Sweet Ali’s two years later with recipes perfected that all would enjoy, gluten-free or otherwise. Beyond the cakes, you’ll find pre-packed pasta, bread and baked goods to enjoy later.
Sweet Natalie's is a bake shop that sells products from a select group of talented and local specialty bakers. They are a group of small businesses working together to bring customers a unique experience and a variety of baked goods. While Sweet Natalie’s is not a certified gluten-free facility, all bakers at Sweet Natalie's utilize dedicated, gluten-free facilities for production. For those looking for vegan options, they also provide many vegan baked goods as well. If you're not a planner, they have celebration cakes and cupcakes available. For something specific, contact them to create a custom celebration cake. (Note: Sweet Natalie’s will soon be Baby Doll Bakery.)
Whether you’re seeking a traditional cake or need to spin the wheel of dietary restrictions — vegan, nut-free, sugar-free, soy-free and gluten-free — this organic bakery with a funky, retro vibe can knock your cake request out of the ballpark. They strive to use as many local, natural ingredients for everything from the flour down to the eggs and their products come in environmentally friendly packaging. West Town Bakery also makes some of the city’s best smash cakes for baby’s first birthday!
If your birthday star doesn’t mind sharing the spotlight with a 3D T-rex cake, or maybe a unicorn with an edible golden horn, then Urban Icing is the place for you. In addition to being a boutique bakery, Urban Icing is an event space that will take care of all the details of your child’s party. You can choose from a Lego Party, Mermaid Party, Ice Cream Social and more. There's something fun—and delicious—for everyone.
Every Jun. 19th, we celebrate Juneteenth to honor the emancipation of enslaved African American people in the United States. It’s important that we not only celebrate Black culture on this day, but also take time to reflect on the contributions of Black history and our country’s past and continue to work together to truly ensure equality for all.
We’ve rounded up some great events over the Juneteenth weekend to help you and your family make the most of the holiday. From festivals and film screenings to concerts and art exhibitions, there’s something for everyone.
Juneteenth: Links in a Chain Jun. 14: The Watts Branch public library, Alma Reaves Woods, is hosting a special Juneteenth program that celebrates the emancipation of slavery by asking families to craft a chain where each link represents a barrier to equal treatment under the law. They will then destroy the chain to restore freedom, justice, and equality. Event details.
Juneteenth at the Pretend City Children’s Museum
Jun. 17: Head to the Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine for their Juneteenth celebration. Activities include an opportunity for kids to weave their own Kente cloth crafted with the bright colors of the Pan-African flag, as well as story times, and music and movement using songs that have been impactful to the African American community. All these amazing activities are included with the price of general admission. Event details.
Eat See Hear: Special Screening of 42 Jun. 18: In honor of Juneteenth and the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in baseball, Eat See Hear’s outdoor film series will screen the movie, 42, starring Chadwick Boseman. In addition to the film, there will be a live performance from The Urban Renewal Project and a fab line-up of local, Black-owned food trucks serving up soul food to fit every taste. Event details.
Street Food Cinema: Special Screening of Black Panther
Jun. 18: Grab your picnic gear and snag a spot on the lawn at the Autry Museum for a special Juneteenth screening of Black Panther starring Chadwick Boseman as T’Challa. A wide variety of food trucks will be on site during the event, as well as live music before the film begins. Wakanda forever! Event details.
30th Annual Juneteenth Celebration at Virginia Avenue Park Jun. 18: LaVerne Ross, the City of Santa Monica and the Juneteenth Celebration Committee will be hosting a fun event at Virginia Avenue Park in Santa Monica featuring dazzling craft vendors, live music, dance performances, mouthwatering food, and local resources. Event details.
Juneteenth Roll at the LA Kings Burbank Sports Center Jun. 18: All ages are invited to celebrate Juneteenth at the LA Kings Burbank Sports Center for an evening of roller skating, groovy tunes, food, vendors and more. Beginners of all abilities are welcome and are encouraged to join the fun. Event details.
5th Annual Juneteenth Community Celebration
Jun. 18: This free event at Woodley Park in Van Nuys will showcase live music, an ethnic dance performance, a marketplace with over 70 vendors, giveaways, and plenty of food for guests to purchase. Event details.
Juneteenth Community Tennis Event Jun. 18: In honor of Juneteenth, the US Tennis Association of Southern California and 40 Love Foundation invite families to Edward Vincent Jr. Park in Inglewood for a fun-filled celebration of Black history and the Black community’s impact on the world of tennis and beyond. There will be a kids’ tennis zone, tons of food, music, tennis activities, hitting exhibitions and more. Event details.
3rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration and Family Reunion Jun. 18: If you’re willing to make the drive, this festive event at Central Park in Santa Clarita will feature live music, games, prizes, delectable food and more. Event details.
Juneteenth at Runway Playa Vista
Jun. 18: Runway at Playa Vista will be celebrating love, life, freedom, and culture in honor of Juneteenth. A variety of Black musicians and dancers will perform, in addition to fab vendors, artists and of course, tons of food. Event details.
Juneteenth Heritage Festival at Leimert Park Jun. 18: This Black arts and culture community-driven festival celebrates Juneteenth in historic Leimert Park. There will be plenty of amazing food, music, art and good vibes. Stay tuned to their website for more details as they develop. Event details.
Juneteenth Celebration Pop Up Event
Jun. 18: This family-friendly Juneteenth event will celebrate the South Central Soul small business community and will feature a live DJ, lots of vendors and performances. Event details.
Long Beach Juneteenth Celebration
Jun. 18: Join the rest of the Long Beach community in helping to celebrate and support Juneteenth. Held at Rainbow Lagoon Park, the event will be filled with food, guest speakers, music, art, face painting, crafts, a step show, culture and activations. Event details.
The Music of Bob Marley for Kids & More at Troubadour Jun. 18 and 19: The Rock and Roll Playhouse–the family concert series where kids and parents rock out to the classics—announces a special run of shows in celebration of Juneteenth and Father’s Day. Taking place on Jun. 18 and 19, The Rock and Roll Playhouse will play 19 concerts nationwide featuring the music of Bob Marley for Kids. This will be the playhouse’s biggest show return since pre-covid, occurring at 19 historic venues across North America, including their first ever show at LA’s Troubadour. Event details.
CAAM Prosperity Market Jun. 19: Celebrate Black farmers, chefs, and entrepreneurs at this special Juneteenth edition of CAAM’s Prosperity Market. Expect tons of fresh fruits and veggies, incredible prepared foods, handcrafted artisan goods, cooking demos, a children’s reading hour from the LA Public Library, arts and crafts, raffles, a DJ spinning tunes, and even a morning sound bath by Sol & Sound. Event details.
Juneteenth Art X Culture Festival Jun. 19: Hosted by the Open Arms Food Pantry and Resource Center, stop by Westchester Recreational Park for an African marketplace, lots of food, live performances, a children’s creative zone, notable children’s book authors, workshops and informative guest speakers. Event details.
Juneteenth: A Global Celebration of Freedom at Hollywood Bowl Jun. 19: What will likely be one of the most memorable shows at the Hollywood Bowl this summer, the Global Celebration of Freedom will feature performances by the likes of Earth, Wind and Fire, The Roots, Billy Porter, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy and many more. Thomas Wilkins and Derrick Hidge will lead the Re-Collective Orchestra, marking the first-ever performance by an all-Black symphony orchestra in the Bowl’s 100-year history. Don’t miss it! Event details.
Juneteenth Celebration at Aquarium of the Pacific Jun. 19: Families are invited to the Aquarium of the Pacific to learn more about the holiday and its significance to the African American community through storytelling and music with Baba the Storyteller. Event details.
Juneteenth Special at Huckleberry Jun. 19: This Juneteenth, one of Santa Monica’s most beloved eateries, Huckleberry Bakery and Cafe, will be selling slices of delicious strawberry rhubarb pie a la mode with Sweet Rose Creamery vanilla ice cream. They are donating 25% of all proceeds to the Loveland Foundation which provides Black women and girls with mental health support and therapy resources. Event details.
2nd Annual Juneteenth Jubilee in Burbank Jun. 19: If you find yourself in the Valley on Juneteenth, swing by the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Jubilee in Burbank. The event will include fabulous vendors, performances, artists, drums, storytelling, trivia, raffles, prizes and more. Event details.
Soulful Noise Presents: Juneteenth Festival at Comfort LA Jun. 19: This is a free celebration dedicated to uplifting the community. There will be live music, local vendors, games, food trucks and more. Guests are encouraged to bring lightly used clothes for the folks of My Friend’s House, as well as packs of socks to help support the people at SockIt2Me. The event will also raise funds for their Back 2 School Drive & Financial Literacy Program. Event details.
Matthew Thomas Enlightenment at CAAM
Throughout Jun.: For over five decades, Matthew Thomas has developed a career as an artist and art professor, first in Los Angeles, and since 2011 in rural Thailand. In the late 1960s, Thomas began researching Eastern religions and philosophies and later studied Buddhist Tantra, a system of spiritual practice and meditation that has profoundly impacted his life and art. Inspired by his practice of the Buddhist religion, his multimedia works are filled with complex patterns that express his progress toward enlightenment and provide a path for others to experience the same. His unique visual language of sacred geometric abstraction, which integrates a variety of symbolic shapes and colors, explores basic life principles and correlates with the five elements of earth, fire, water, wind, and sky. Matthew Thomas: Enlightenment features a site-specific installation and selection of recent paintings that function as visual prayers meant to harmonize humanity and the universe. Event details.
The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection at SoFi Stadium
Through Jun. 19: The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection is the inspired work of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, and their son Khalil, and considered one of the largest and most comprehensive of its kind. Beginning over 50 years ago, the Kinsey’s have been on a journey of collecting fine art and primary source historical objects that document the African American experience and illuminate the untold stories of Black Excellence throughout U.S. history. Curated by Khalil Kinsey and historian Larry Earl, the exhibition focuses on the lives, accomplishments, and brilliance of African Americans from the 16th century through the years of slavery and emancipation to the civil rights movement through modern day.
The Kinsey Collection Experience features over 100,000 square feet of masterful works of art, sculptures, photographs, rare books, and letters. The exhibition has been extended through Jun. 2022. Event details.
UNREPD Gallery Presents Like Watermelon for Chocolate
Throughout Jun.: UNREPD Gallery in Melrose Hill opens their newest exhibition in honor of Juneteenth–a solo presentation by artist Kirk Henriques titled Like Watermelon for Chocolate. This “meditation on the possibilities of freedom for Black people” features a selection of abstract and figurative paintings in oil and acrylic on fiberglass mesh and will run through Jul. 19. The work itself is kid appropriate and an opening reception will be held from 2 p.m.– 4 p.m. on Jun. 19. Event details.
COMING SOON:
Regeneration Black Cinema 1898–1971 at the Academy Museum Aug. 21, 2022: Not quite in time for Juneteenth, but worth keeping on your radar for later this summer when the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures debuts Regeneration Black Cinema 1898 – 1971. The first exhibition of its kind will be a rigorous and celebratory exploration of the achievements and challenges of Black filmmakers in the United States since the dawn of cinema to the Civil Rights Movement. Filmmakers Ava DuVernay and Charles Burnett are among the exhibition’s advisers. Event details.
LA’s Black Landmarks & Historical Sites
From the Watt’s Towers and Ralph J. Bunche House to the Central Ave. Jazz Corridor and Inkwell in Santa Monica, LA is filled with incredible landmarks and historical sites that educate and celebrate Black history. We have a great list of places that should definitely be on your list to check out this month and beyond.
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. The name is a combination of “June” and “19th”—a significant day in history when in 1865 federal troops arrived in Galveston, TX to ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The holiday was historically celebrated with praying, singing, and even some pilgrimaging back to Galveston. Nowadays the celebrations include backyard BBQs, parades, and fireworks. Read on for some ideas on how to celebrate our newest federal holiday with your kids in San Diego. Also, check out our article for places to visit this summer to learn more about black history.
North County NAACP Celebration
The North County NAACP is hosting a free to the public Juneteenth celebration. This event will highlight the positive changes that have happened in the last 159 years since the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation and the importance of education, contributions, and achievements. The festival will include marketplace vendors, live entertainment, games, face painting, and more!
When: June 18 from 10 am -5 pm Where: Downtown Oceanside next to the Civic Center on Pier View Way and Ditmar Street Online: nsdcnaacp.com
For the past 50 years, The Cooper family has hosted a Juneteenth celebration in honor of their patriarch Sidney Cooper Sr. whose vision was to provide a free educational and culturally enriched event to the community. This year the festival will host its first bike rodeo, where kids can bring or borrow a bike and participate in an obstacle course. Also included at the event are live gospel and jazz music, African drumming and dancing, food trucks, and a kids zone.
When: June 18 from 11:00 am - 6:30 pm (Bike Rodeo is from 12 pm - 3 pm) Where: Memorial Community Park (2975 Oceanview Blvd. San Diego) Online: facebook.com/The-Cooper-Family-Foundation
The Juneteenth Wellness Festival highlights black-owned businesses in a day of celebration and healing while sharing creativity and fostering togetherness. All ages are welcome at this event which will include wellness vendors, plant-based food, and youth fitness instruction.
When: June 19 from 10 am- 8 pm Where: Intercontinental Hotel, 901 Bayfront Ct., San Diego Online: junteenthwellnessfest.com
Juneteenth Movie Night
Artists 4 Black Lives San Diego is celebrating Black Media by hosting a movie night. The double-feature family-friendly movies will begin with Cinderella featuring Brandy and then Marvel's Black Panther. Popcorn is included with the price of admission, and candy and drinks will also be available. Tickets are $10 for the two movies, plus popcorn. Kids two and under are free.
La Mesa Juneteenth and Friends will host their inaugural Juneteenth festival which will be a celebration of life, liberty, and community. The event will include food, live music, entertainment from the MLK choir, a step show, and lots of family fun including a bounce house and crafts.
When: June 19 from 12 pm - 4 pm Where: MacArthur Park, 4975 Memorial Drive, La Mesa Online: lamesajuneteethandfriends.com
Old Globe's Juneteenth Celebration
Visit the Old Globe's outdoor theatre for a free Juneteenth Celebration in collaboration with the George L. Stevens Senior Center! Hosted by Gill Sotu, this event’s lineup includes poetry and music by performers Def Sound, Reg E Gaines, and Brittany Taylor; a choir performance by David Dredden and Undefeated; a Juneteenth storytelling by poet Alyce Smith Cooper; a comedy set by Kree Rushing; and a presentation by The Old Globe—all sharing performance pieces inspired by the annual holiday. Although offered for free, tickets are required as this is a general admission event.
Saturday, June 18 from noon to 2:00 p.m. Online: theoldglobe.org
Seattleites know that summer doesn’t really start until after July 4th, right? It seems we’re right on track for that time frame this year. While we’re all itching for more of summer’s sunny days, the upside is there’s still plenty of time to check these amazing outdoor activities off your summer bucket list. From secret beaches and spectacular water parks, to new museum exhibits, summer festivals and celebrations, here are our top 75 kid-friendly summer activities happening in and around the Emerald City. How many outdoor activities you can get through before the rain returns.
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1. Although we haven't seen much of the sun lately, we know it'll show itself eventually. When it does, outdoor activities are back on! Keep everyone cool at one of Seattle’s many wading pools, or head to one of the city's sprayparks or beaches that stay open rain or shine.
2. Learn about the sharks that live in Elliott Bay and other cool marine facts with a trip to a waterfront favorite.
7. Whether your kids love wild roller coasters or epic waterslides, Wild Waves Theme & Water Park is the place to go on a hot day. Don't forget the park's Dive-In Movies on Thursday nights this summer.
10. Immerse yourself in the C-ID where you can find urban chickens, Seattle's oldest Chinese restaurant and rice hot dogs. Our suggestion? Plan your visit during one of the Summer Food Walk Days. Because yum!
14. Seattle's strawberry u-pick season may have gotten off to a slow start, but the blueberry picking season promises more fresh fruit than your berry lovers can handle. Stock the freezer or prepare to bake through the summer!
17. Lead llamas, feed snakes or just cuddle with some cute barnyard animals—petting farm playdates never get old.
18. Plan a summer trip to Seabrook on the scenic Pacific coast. Between the miles of sandy beaches and the town's many amenities, there's always something fun for families to do.
19. Put your wallet away! These summer activities are free (or super cheap!).
20. August is all about sunflower festivals. You can bet your oversized flower petals you'll snap the cutest pictures ever of your crew here.
21. Lions and tigers and bears. Oh my! A trip to Woodland Park Zoo is a summertime must, especially now that the Zoomazium and Molbak's Butterfly Garden are both open again. Plus, the kid-friendliest concert series in town, ZooTunes, starts this week. Get tickets while you still can!
25. Go in search of a Hobit House on a lazy summer day.
26. There are oh so many reasons to plan a date night with your parenting partner this summer, and the return of Hamilton in August is just one of them. Before you get to be in the room where it happened, plan a night to check out The Art of Banksy: Without Limits, heading to Seattle in July.
27. Snag tickets to the hottest train ride in town before they're gone. That's right, everyone's favorite blue tank engine, Thomas, will be rolling through the Snoqualmie Valley in July.
29. Take the kids out to a ball game at T-Mobile Park, with perks live value games and menus, fireworks nights and Run Around the Bases Days (mark your calendars for July 3, 10 and 24 if your kids want to run), it's as family-friendly as it gets.
30. The Champions of Magic are coming to Seattle in September. Get your tickets to this super hot and family-friendly show while you still can.
32. Sure you’ve been camping, but have you been yurt camping?
33. Find summer inspo from these Seattle IG moms you totally need to follow.
34. Although Argosy isn't running to Blake Island anymore, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a boat cruise as a family this summer. Trust us, bringing out-of-town visitors along with you is a much-appreciated plus.
35. You never know what you'll find when you wander along Whimsy Way at this hidden sculpture forest.
42. There’s a reason the Seattle Center is one of the top visitor destinations–it’s a blast! And you don’t have to spend a dime to keep the kiddies engaged here. Let them wander around the sculpture garden, create cool sounds at the Sonic Bloom solar-powered art installation, run around the International Fountain, play at the Artists at Play playground and emote on the stage.
43. Make like the Swiss Family Robinson with a treehouse rental this summer. Fair warning—your kids may never want to leave.
47. Head to Waterfront Park for tons of family fun. With programming by the Seattle Aquarium, free walking tours and more, you can keep coming back all summer long. Don't forget to take a spin on the Seattle Great Wheel to get a bird’s-eye view of the city like no other. Then, head next door to Wings Over Washington where you can soar like an eagle over Washington state while you're there.
48. Whether you've got out-of-town guests or just need an excuse to be outside, these patios were made for dining.
58. Make a pilgrimage to the original lavender farm in Sequim. July is the prime time to enjoy this fragrant bloom with your little sprouts. Hint: grab a scoop of the lavender ice cream that's sold right there.
59. Need a break from the sun? Chill out at an indoor theater. The Regal Summer Movie Express is only $2 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through the end of August.
60. This summer's festival season is going to be epic. With everything from music fests to city fairs, there's something for everyone.
62. Whether you're planning a family reunion or you just want to vacation with friends, these group campsites are as cost-effective as they are fun for families.
66. Splish and splash at these Eastside waterparks that make for great playdate meet-ups or family outdoor activities. When you're there, we've got lots of other places to check out too.
70. Nothing says outdoor activities like getting on your bikes and riding... along Lake Washington Boulevard on select weekends this summer. Nothing beats the view and your kids will thank you for this family adventure.
71. Take the bus downtown and stroll through the Pike Place Market to pick up dinner fixings and a bouquet.
72. There are some seriously cool donut shops that call Seattle home. We're thinking summer donut odyssey... how 'bout you?
73. If you’re itching to get out of the city, head to this seaside town that boasts an amazing food scene (including the world’s best waterside pizzeria), weird and wonderful art and the best hide-and-go-seek spot this side of Hogwarts.
74. When the need to become one with nature strikes, head out to one of these tranquil gardens chock-full of blooming blossoms, rushing waterfalls and plenty of places to relax and rejuvenate.
75. Go on an urban art adventure when you need something fun to do with the kids. Best part? It doesn't cost a cent.
Portland, Oregon: a place where families and communities blend together and show support for one another. Asian American and Pacific Islander [AAPI] communities have been a huge component of the diversity that makes Portland so unique! And when we band together to support local AAPI businesses that serve local families, we are not only broadening our kids’ knowledge and understanding of culture, we are strengthening community bonds and developing relationships that make Portland the city it is. From awesome small businesses and restaurants to arts and culture opportunities for your crew, we’ve rounded up AAPI-owned businesses and non-profits you can patronize and donate to and make a difference. Read on to find out more.
This Vietnamese-owned spot has been a staple in the northeast neighborhood of Portland. Built on family-traded recipes, Hanoi Kitchen has been supplying Portland with delicious cuisine for years! Switch up a weekday meal or have a fun family dinner with their steamed rice crepes, their southern-style noodle soup, or treat you and the kiddos to a tasty vermicelli bowl!
Where: 7925 NE Glisan St., Portland OR Phone: (503) 252 – 1300 Online: hanoikitchenpdx.com
Highlight Auto Body and Repair
Take the pressure off finding a decent place to get your car fixed with Highlight Auto Body and Repair! They are incredibly efficient and budget-friendly because they know how important having a working car is to getting around. Their effective customer communication, family-oriented candor, and passion for automobiles make Highlight the best way to get your car up to snuff and support a local AAPI business in the process!
Ever wanted to learn the drums? How about Japanese taiko drumming? If you’re not sure what that is, now is a perfect time to find out! Built by Ann Ishimaru and Zachary Semke, this taiko performance group offers a range of learning options from company workshops to individual lessons. Plus, you know you’re getting grade-A instruction, as they routinely perform all over the Pacific Northwest! Head online today to check out their upcoming classes or schedule a community event with them. Where: 3728 SE 34th Ave., Portland OR Phone: (503) 288-2456 Online: portlandtaiko.org
Coco’s Donuts
Ever had one? They’re addicting. Treat you and the kiddos to a sweet snack after school or on a weekend afternoon with Coco’s Mochi Oreo or Mochi Matcha flavored donuts, or keep it simple with their glazed raised or chocolate frosted with sprinkles! No matter your preference, Coco’s has a treat for you. They’ve been serving up these warm, tasty treats to the Portland community for years, so don’t wait! Head to one of their multiple locations today to see what all the fuss is about!
Where: 5 Locations: Downtown Portland, Broadway, Williams, Brooklyn, Sunnywise, Portland State University Online: cocodonuts.com
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Spend a weekend afternoon appreciating the beauty of the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Placed aptly in Portland’s China town, this green space is rich with native Chinese plants, flowers, and trees, as well as a Koi pond! Amble along the paths through their lush gardens for a meditative, calming experience and then cap the day with a cup of tea from their teahouse! Where: 239 NW Everett St., Portland OR Cost: Adults (Ages 14-61) $14, Seniors & Students $13, Youth (6-18) $11, Children 5 & under Free Phone: (503) 228-8131 Online: lansugarden.org
This museum is nearly brand new to the city of Portland – opening its doors in December of 2018, the Portland Chinatown Museum [PCM] seeks to honor Portland’s rich Asian history. The museum constantly rotates exhibitions and has a permanent gallery feature titled Beyond the Gate: A Tale of Portland’s HIstoric Chinatowns. Pack the family up and head to PCM today to really understand the importance of Portland’s AAPI community today!
Where: 127 NW Third Ave., Portland OR Cost: Adults: $8, Seniors: $6, Students: $5, Children 12& Under: Free Phone: (503) 224-0008 Online: portlandchinatownmuseum.org
Japanese American Museum of Oregon
Located in the northwest Portland neighorhood, the Japanese American Museum of Oregon [JAMO] strives to educate the public about Japanese emigrants and their descendants, also known as the Nikkei. The idea for JAMO was built from the Issei Appreciation project, to preserve the stories of the Oregon Japanese immigrants, and the first iteration of the museum was established in 1990 at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Now, they’ve just opened their northwest location [May of 2021] for all to explore, learn, and appreciate!
While going out to eat and exploring gardens and museums is a great way to engage with Portland’s AAPI community, it isn’t the only way to have a supportive impact. There are several organizations that take donations that would go directly to the preservation of community history and the advancement of community business and activism. Below are some of the organizations you can donate to today as you do your part to support Portland’s great Asian American and Pacific Islander community!
Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon [APANO] Founded in 1996, APANO dedicates itself to community development through cultural work, leadership development and support, political advocacy, and community organization!
The Japanese American Citizen League [JACL] Founded in 1929, JACL has worked for nearly a hundred years to support Portland’s Japanese American community through civil rights activism to build infrastructure that supports our AAPI neighbors.
The Korean American Coalition [KAC]
KAC has several areas of impact for Portland’s AAPI community: they are engaged in civic and legislative advocacy, community service, cultural education through Korean artforms, and youth leadership!
Northwest Chinese Alliance [NCA] Built on the practice of preserving cultural art forms, the NCA strives to showcase Chinese American history through the performing arts. They seek to build community and engage individuals through dance performances and events like the Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade!
Oregon Chinese Coalition [OCC] The OCC is a tight-knit organization that seeks to strengthen the Portland Chinese community through civil, political, religious, and cultural preservation.
Oregon Korea Fund [OKF] Founded in 1995, the OKF seeks to provide support for Korean heritage, communities, businesses, and families through the support of donations and grant work!
