Amid questions around the fairness of college admissions tests—and whether or not they’re even necessary at all—it was just announced that the SAT will go completely digital by 2024. The College Board recently announced the end of an era that required kids to meet at testing centers with their No. 2 pencils, ready to fill out an answer bubble sheet. Students will now complete the test on laptops or tablets and the test will be shortened from three hours to two. So, why did these major changes come about and what do they mean for kids and parents? As the Chief Academic Officer at Varsity Tutors and an expert on standardized testing, having taught tens of thousands of SAT students and co-authoring test prep books, here’s what you need to know.
Why Is the SAT Changing?
The growing trend toward “test-optional” is really a trend toward eliminating friction for students in applying to college. Schools want to keep application volume high, so giving the option to skip a big hurdle like the SAT protects against potential applicants just not applying. With this move, the SAT is removing a lot of friction from the option to take the test. The goal is to make the option to test a lot more appealing.
This is part of an overall trend: schools have gone test-optional and allowed for “superscores” (combining your best performances on each section across multiple tests). The SAT recently dropped its optional essay section in an effort to shorten the test and reduce the number of decisions that students need to make. Both the SAT and ACT have added test preparation materials to their websites to make studying even easier. The trend in admissions at all levels has been toward removing barriers to students applying, and to making it easier for them to choose to take a particular test.
I fully expect that the ACT will announce some new, student-friendly policies to react to this: the two tests are competing for students, and that competition benefits students as the tests each look to be the friendlier option.
There’s also an element of appealing to colleges here, too. A driver of “test-optional” and “test-blind” admissions, like we’ve seen in the University of California system, is the notion that standardized tests favor those who can pay for the tools to take and succeed on them. One notable change to the SAT will be the appearance of an on-screen graphing calculator: those calculators are a hefty expense, so giving students easy access to them—and I’m sure the College Board website will make the calculator and even tutorials available in its prep tools so that students can get familiar with using it—is a big step toward leveling the playing field for lower-income students.
What Does The Change to the SAT Mean for Students?
Students will be thrilled at the idea of a shorter test with more on-screen tools to help them, including the on-screen calculator, the timer to help them pace themselves, and a tool to flag questions to return to later. A test that feels a little more helpful and manageable can go a long way toward building confidence and reducing stress, which should enable students to perform up to their potential.
Another really helpful facet of the change is the flexibility and availability of test dates. That has the potential to be the biggest advantage for students: when tests are only offered on a handful of fixed Saturday mornings per year, students often run into the challenge of a test date that just doesn’t lend itself to peak performance. For example, their one springtime shot comes the same week as their biggest track meet or theater performance of the year, and that cramps their study and sleep schedules or divides their attention. Or the test is only available a few towns away, and given the early morning start that puts them at a disadvantage just from waking up and getting there. Now with the potential for more testing dates, times, and locations, students will have more options to find testing appointments that allow them to prepare thoroughly and feel primed for peak performance.
What Is SAT Adaptive Testing?
The headline is that the test is getting shorter, but the reason it’s able to do that is that the computer-based test allows for adaptivity–because the test can determine a student’s general ability level and then ask questions closer to that level to get a more accurate measurement, it needs fewer questions to provide an accurate score. A perfect scorer doesn’t need to answer several basic questions that really exist to differentiate between lower scores, and a more modest student doesn’t need to struggle and guess through the most advanced vectors, matrices, and trigonometry questions that differentiate between the top scorers.
The way that the SAT will adapt is by section, much like the current GRE does. Each student will see two math sections and two reading/writing sections, and their performance on the first of each section will determine the difficulty level–and the number of ‘available points’–on the second. So it will be all the more important to be a fast starter on the new, shorter test: a rough performance on a first section can put a ceiling on the number of points available on the second. So students will want to get to the test center warmed up and ready to go, and use every bit of “extra” time on their first sections to double-check and correct mistakes so that their second sections give them the best chance to maximize their scores.
What You Need to Know about the SAT Moving Forward
If you are in 10th or 11th grade: there’s nothing to see here. American sophomores and juniors will take the existing SAT so don’t be distracted by these announcements.
If you are in 9th grade: challenge yourself with a rigorous academic schedule and don’t worry about the SAT until spring of 10th grade when you take the PSAT. The best path to a high SAT score is being comfortable with math, reading, and writing skills; the format of test questions and timing will start to matter when you’re within 2-3 months of taking the test.
The best way to think about test-optional is that really everything on your application is optional. Taking AP classes is optional; being valedictorian or captain of the track team is a bonus, but not required. You just need your application to have enough reasons for an admissions officer to want to accept you over the competition. So if you think you can get a score that will look good on your application, you should probably opt to test; if you’re fairly confident that you just can’t get a score that will help your application, that’s when you can spend that time on other things that will benefit you.
Brian Galvin is the Chief Academic Officer for Varsity Tutors. A lifelong educator with a Master's in Education, Brian's been teaching and developing online classes since 2009. He recently helped design After School Clubs, offering interactive activities and instruction in areas beyond traditional academic subjects.
Every year as the holidays wrap up, we start to focus on good habits and goal-setting for the new year ahead. Maybe you want to work out more, go to bed earlier, clean out your closet or even try to spend less time on your phone. Your children may be curious about the routine changes they see their parents implementing and may even want to participate—something that should be encouraged.
Just like adults, children thrive on healthy routines with little goals to strive toward. Setting daily habits allows kids to experience continued growth socially and emotionally by helping them develop self-regulation skills, gain responsibility and build confidence.
How do we help our children set these reasonable, consistent routines?
A great rule of thumb is to choose a small number—just one or two goals to start for younger children and no more than four for older children. You can certainly add more as your kids achieve success with the original habit(s). But keeping a small number allows them to understand clearly and concisely the priorities they will be working toward and will enable them to stay focused.
Keep in mind that children should choose which new routines they select. Providing the opportunity for choice allows your little ones to have some autonomy with selection, which will make them more inspired to practice the habits they have chosen.
Here’s what to do when establishing healthy routines with your kids:
1. Together, make a list of potential goals using pictures for visual cues and allowing your children to pick. Some ideas include trying new foods, eating healthier snacks, enjoying more nature/outside activities, engaging in more mindfulness activities and participating in community events. You can include tasks to help out around the house, too.
2. Keep the list and photos in a visible location to serve as a reminder.
3. Consider making a chart of the habits with pictures, and don’t forget to include a completed side. Allow your children to physically move the photos into the completed section once the goal has been achieved, which will allow them to feel a sense of pride.
4. Review progress and give praise as they succeed. Offer words of encouragement when progress is delayed to help your child continue to strive for success at their chosen routine.
You and your children can start the year out in a healthy way by setting small, achievable and beneficial practices for 2022. If you’re looking for resources to help you and your children explore developmentally appropriate ways to practice good character in the year ahead, head over to Kiddie Academy’s website to download the Character Essentials Activity Book.
Joy has over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. As Vice President of Education at Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care, she oversees all things curriculum, assessment, training and more. Joy earned a B.S. in Education from Salisbury University.
If there’s one thing that’s certain in life it’s that kids never stop growing. Now is the perfect time to check to see if your kid needs a bike upgrade. We’ve done the research on the best kids’ bikes and tricycles with our own kids as the testers so we know what works and what doesn’t. From kids’ mountain bikes to kids’ dirt bikes to the beginner balance bikes, read on for our kid-tested picks for the best of the best.
Can't wait to get your little rider on wheels? This bundle gives you a Strider Bike—and a place to prop it—so your tot can climb on and test his balance by simply rocking back and forth. He'll feel like he's really riding and will be that much closer to the real thing. Then, when he's ready, just pop the bike out and hit the road.
For trendsetting tots (er, parents) who like to roll in style, this trike will be on every Fancy Nancy's wish list. Designed in collaboration with Bentley Motors (the wheels are an exact replica of the Bentley Continental GT, and the kids tricycle is available in the same colors as the cars), this luxurious stroller trike can accommodate your child from babyhood and beyond. And before you scoff at the outrageous price tag, consider that this little gizmo is at once a forward and backward-facing stroller, a push trike and a pedal trike—with a few phases in between. It's pricey . . . but it'll last you five years.
Best Tricycle to Grow Into: EZ Fold 4-in-1 Stroll ‘N Trike
Radio Flyer
If you're more bargain than Bentley, Radio Flyer's EZ Fold 4-in-1 tricycle will do the job just fine. It starts as a push stroller and easily transforms to become a push trike, learn-to-ride trike and finally a classic tricycle. The set of wheels also features a removable wrap-around tray with a cup holder, a rear storage bucket, an adjustable canopy and a three-point harness for safety.
Our list wouldn't be complete without Radio Flyer's classic red tricycle. We've hauled these bad boys around to events, let our kids ride them around our neighborhoods and have even been known to take a spin ourselves. The steel construction makes these tricycles extra durable (believe us—some of ours have taken a beating and are still wheeling around in prime condition). Most of all, we love that classic look won't ever go out of style.
Balance is everything when you're learning how to ride, and Kickster is the perfect teaching tool for toddlers who are mastering this important skill. This kids' balance bike doesn't have pedals so balance is the only focus, plus it features a handle so you can support your little one while they get the hang of things. We love that the seat is adjustable so that it works well for taller toddlers too!
Best Bike with Modern Geometry: Mongoose Title Tot
Little rippers start here. The road to awesome is paved with confidence-building fun when kids learn to ride on the Title Tot by Mongoose. The smallest member of the Title BMX race series, the Title Tot is designed to help young kids learn to ride by putting the focus on balance and gliding before they graduate to a pedal bike—eliminating the need for training wheels. But don’t let its tiny size fool you, this balance bike has got it all: a lightweight aluminum frame, air-filled tires for grip and control, and even a ball bearing headset and wheel hubs for quality performance. Plus, the quick-adjust seat makes it easy to adjust the height for growing kids. Let the wild ride begin with the Title Tot by Mongoose.
For a cool-looking balance bike that doesn't break the bank, the Joystar is a perfect fit. Featuring an adjustable seat and handlebars plus a footrest that sits where the feet would be if the rider were pedaling, this budget bike helps newbie riders find their center of gravity and get gliding right away. It also has air-free tires so you never have to worry about filling up. Available in black, blue, green and pink.
There's a reason you see so many Woom 1 bikes on the sidewalks with beginner riders: it perfectly fits the smallest riders who may still be learning to work on their motor skills. The bike is easy for the littlest toddlers (ages 1.5 to 3 years old) to jump on and glide, ensuring that they're able to learn to ride and balance with confidence. The bike even comes with real rear brakes, which are specially-designed for small hands to operate so kiddo can learn how to safely bring her bike to a halt. Our Editorial Director counts herself a big fan of this model—her toddler now rides with confidence thanks to the stability and design of the Woom 1 (you'll catch her sprinting behind struggling to keep up).
If we want to inspire the next generation of riders, kids deserve better bikes. That’s why Specialized took the same tech behind their world championship-winning bikes and combined it with proportional design to build the ultimate balance bike. The Hotwalk features an A1 Premium Aluminum frame, along with Rhythm Lite Airless tires designed to be fast rolling while maintaining enough grip for dirt.
Similar to the above, Giant's Pre Balance Bike is a hit amongst the balance biker toddler gangs of the preschool world. With the fatter tires than the above Woom 1 bike, we found this bike easy to learn how to ride (and great if you're taking your balance bike on dirt paths or to the bike park). The newest Giant model features a redesigned frame that gives the bike a more sporty feel. Little riders will also like the footrest feature and updated geometry that makes the bike adaptable to riders as they grow taller.
A Bike That Will Grow with Your Kids: Jett by Specialized
Specialized
This great option just entered the market in May 2021 and you're gonna love it. The right bike for a young rider is a delicate balance between too small, too big, and a short-lived ‘just right.’ Kids move fast and grow fast. Jett can adjust to fit the young rider and provide the perfect fit for up to 50% longer. Specialized did their homework to understand how kids grow—spoiler alert, kids’ arms and legs grow more rapidly than their torso. The brand took to the books and designed a bike with child-specific touch points that withstand the development of young riders.
The Gecko fits kids with inseams of 14” to 18”. First-time riders with an inseam of 15” plant their feet comfortably on the ground while sitting on the saddle. The Gecko is a lightweight, high-quality bike option. The freewheel version (shown here) weighs 13.5 pounds—lighter than similar bikes on the market. Recent upgrades to the Gecko include a smaller saddle for the littlest riders that features a handle tucked seamlessly beneath it. The Gecko also has a knobby tire, making it great for trail pursuits.
Lightweight was a priority for Cleary Bikes’ founders, who are parents who know well what it’s like to carry home a 40-pound kid—and a 40-pound bike— after a little rider has lost steam.
Cleary’s hand-made steel frames are super strong, meaning there is no weight limit on any of their bikes, including this Gecko, which comes in five colors. (Yes, Mom and Dad, you can ride the Gecko!) Built to last, these bikes are durable enough to last through multiple siblings, friends and neighbors. Cleary guarantees all its bikes with a lifetime warranty.
This bike company was founded in New York City by a dad who wanted to shift his “priorities” from spending so much time in the office to sharing a long-time passion for cycling with his family. So he set out to make high-quality bicycles and deliver them directly to customers. The company’s Priority Start 16 is ideal for kids graduating from a balance bike. Designed with kids in mind, it is grease-free and belt-driven (without the coaster brakes typical of other “big kid” bikes), while its frame is made of lightweight aluminum. And while it may seem like a high price tag, blogger Twowheelingtots rated it the "Best Bang for Your Buck" because of its solid "quality, lightweight build, and unique belt drive."
Training wheels ($29.99) and kickstand ($12.99) can also be purchased. For older kids, there are 20" and 24" models.
The Frog First Pedal bike is the best bike for early balance bike graduates, helping them to build confidence in their cycling abilities. It can also act as a balance bike for a taller child by simply removing the pedals.
If you want to stick to big-name bikes without exorbitant price tags, the Schwinn Koen is a great choice. The Koen features Schwinn's SmartStart technology, which means the bike is designed for kid-sized proportions—with the pedals closer together for an easy ride, a lengthened wheelbase (so kids' knees don't hit the handlebars) and reduced overall weight. It also features both a rear coaster brake and a front hand brake as well as a full-coverage chain guard to protect little hands feet and clothing. Includes training wheels, a saddle handle for towing and storage, a number plate and a limited lifetime warranty for as long as you own the bike.
For kids ages 3 years to 10 years. (Available in 12-, 14-, 16-, 18- and 20-inch wheelbase).
You may recognize Guardian Bikes from Season 8 of Shark Tank, where they accepted a $500,000 contingent offer from Mark Cuban. The mission at the heart of the company has been to create the world’s safest children’s bikes. Their patented and award-winning SureStop™ Braking System does just that to avoid head-over-handlebars or front-wheel skidding accidents that new riders can make. So how does SureStop work? It reduces stopping distance, distributes braking power to both wheels for better control and has an easy, single-lever system. We tested it out, and the bike does, indeed, stop a few seconds faster than other bikes, without giving us that scary feeling of propelling forward.
The bike has a lightweight aluminum frame, is available in its original AIROS version and an ETHOS model which is about $100 cheaper and comes in 14-, 16-, 20- and 24-inch rides (the 20-inch rides come in single-speed or geared options). For added safety, a certified mechanic sets up the bike, including a 34-step safety check. All that’s left to do is install handlebars and pedals and get riding.
Not sure what size to get your rider? Guardian's online RideSizer feature lets you enter your child's age and height and get a customized recommendation for which bike to choose—and how long it'll last your child.
For kids aged 3 years to 12 years, depending on the model.
This bike is made for fun! With a rear slick tire for epic skid stops, a front fork with suspension for jumping curbs and several color options to match each personality, the bike stands out in the 16” category. We especially love the banana seat for some retro fun!
Learning how to use gears is easy with this modestly-priced (but still not cheap!) seven-speed bike from Electra. Featuring the company's patented Flat Foot Technology, the bike is designed to let kids plant their feet on the ground—without leaving the saddle or being forced to balance on their tippy toes—when stopping. The lightweight, aluminum frame has a unisex design, so boys and girls can focus on selecting their favorite color (there are four different choices) while its solid construction means it'll make a great hand-me-down for younger sibs. It also features puncture-resistant tires, and a dual position crank arm, which allows parents to adjust the pedals to grow with kids.
If your kid is ready to tackle hills and start shifting, this bike is worth the splurge. Featuring eight gears (with easy-grip shifters), a lightweight frame, and Kenda off-road tires, it's great for exploring basic trails as well as doing all-day rides around town. It also has a low minimum seat height, which means your little rider can get in the saddle earlier (if she's ready).
Note: If you're reluctant to fork over the cash for this relatively high-priced set of wheels, just remember that TwoWheelingTots (in our opinion the best kids' bike blogger around) called this bike "the cream of the crop" and the "best all-around 20" bike" it tested.
New to the market, the Riprock features modern mountain bike tech for a safe, smooth and confident ride. The alloy frame makes it light and easy for kids to manage on the trail. There are 20” and 24” models featuring a rigid fork and the Riprock Expert 24” features a suspension fork.
Best Intro to Mountain Biking: Cleary Bikes 24” Scout
Cleary Bikes
The Scout is the real deal of kids' mountain bikes. When they’re ready to tackle trails, this 10-speed, purpose-built rig provides the ideal platform. The Scout is stable, lightweight and rips down flowy singletrack with ease.
Components were not overlooked; this bike features parts you’d commonly find on a well-equipped adult mountain bike. Disc brakes ensure precision stopping power, while the Suntor XCR Lo 24 Air fork provides a supple riding experience. The additional clearance of the Scout’s new shorter crankset makes rallying turns and hitting jumps even easier.
The Scout is built to take hits on and off the trails. It’s backed by Cleary’s lifetime warranty and can be handed down to future generations of riders.
The 24” Scout fits riders 50”-57” inches tall, with inseam measurements of 21.5”-26.5”.
Ages 7-10
Price: $840
Buy it here (currently sold out but you can sign up to be notified when they're available again)
Cool Kid on the Block—Mongoose Axios
Mongoose
The Axios series is a great option for ripping around the neighborhood. The frame geometry is based on BMX race frames so it’s engineered for speed. The single-speed drivetrain ensures you spend less time adjusting parts and more time having fun.
For Prevelo founder Jacob Rheuban, a father of two (and Red Tricycle Spoke contributor!), bikes and kids should add up to fun, ease and confidence. So 100% of Prevelo Bikes are engineered for kids, including positioning kids closer to the ground (for a confidence boost), short crank arms (for a comfortable ride with that lower saddle height), durable yet lightweight frame (think: steel and aluminum), rounded axle bolts (to avoid leg scrapes), third-party chemical testing (no phthalates or lead here!) and handbrake levers that are kid-sized (the reach is adjustable too). Prevelo has bikes that are good on the streets and bikes that are meant for the trails (the Zulu line is bona fide mountain bikes).
Because that kid-sized engineering is so key, the company offers a cool Factory Trade-Up Club ($69 for a lifetime membership), allowing you to move on to another model while getting 40% back from the purchase price of your previous Prevelo. You can trade up from the AlphaZero balance bike, for instance, all the way through to the AlphaFour 24-inch bike.
Ages 18 months to 11 years, depending on the model.
Available in a bunch of cool colors, you'll love the look of this cruiser bike that will take your teen from home to school and back. It’s easy to ride, worn-in comfy and designed for stable, vibration free rides. It comes with a rear rack and wider saddle for a more comfortable seat.
We love the retro styling of this Schwinn cruiser: It's got the look of bikes long gone, but the safety technology of today's industry standards. The 7-speed twist shifters provide precise gear changes, while the front and rear alloy V-brakes provide secure, reliable stops. Plus, the tool-free adjustable seat post and premium stitched spring saddle make it easy to find your perfect fit and a comfortable ride.
Trek Bikes wants your kids to enjoy biking just as much as you do, so they put the same amount of dedication and know-how into their bikes as they do to their adult bikes. This matters because learning to ride on a well-designed bike is both easier and more enjoyable, and when your little one loves riding as a kid they'll love riding forever. Each one of their kids’ bikes is made with durable, high-quality materials and assembled by a professional mechanic so you can focus on having fun with your little ones for years to come.
Trek's Precaliber offers a range of sizes (from 12”-24” wheels) and price points that fit just about any kid’s needs. Precaliber is perfect for beginners, neighborhood riding or just getting out and having a blast on two wheels!
Plus the benefit you get with every Trek kids' bike: Lifetime warranty, high-quality build and assembly, and their awesome trade-up program to provide parents a great value for when their kid grows out of their bike. When you buy a kids’ bike at a participating Trek retail location, you can bring it back within three years and get up to 50% of the bike’s original purchase price in credit toward the purchase of a new one.
This 7-speed trailer-cycle offers a great way for kids to get comfortable both with pedaling and with speed, all while remaining safely attached. It features a versatile 7-speed rapid-fire style thumb shifter, adjusts easily for growing children and offers superior stability with Burley’s patented aluminum ball-bearing guided hitch. Gotta love the safety flag, too. Talk about a fun way to get around town!
For kids ages 4 to 10 years (with a recommended 2-1 adult weight-to-child ratio).
A recumbent bike isn't the first thing a kid would think of for their new set of wheels, but this zippy little three-wheeler will have parents wanting to hop in the saddle, too (There's one for you, too, Mom and Dad!). Part go-cart, part bicycle, the Mobo cruiser lets kids sit back and pedal away. Voted a "Best Gift for Kids" by the Today Show, the Triton uses a rear-wheel steering system (you steer with your hands using levers on either side of the bike) and a single-speed gear. It's ideal for cruising sidewalks and bike paths as opposed to tackling steep hills or trails. And, with an adjustable frame to fit heights up to 5’2”, it'll last your kids into their teens. Frozen fans: there's even a special version just for you!
If you are looking for a bike that transports you, the kids, groceries and maybe even the dog too, a cargo bike might be the perfect purchase. Many have electric assist so it's smooth sailing for the parent pedaling, and there are tons of configurations that can definitely fit your family.
If you want to roll down the road or up hills with the greatest of ease, consider a smooth riding electric bike to gently push you along. Electric bikes are great for many reasons including reducing fossil fuels, making it easier to ride long distances or up hills and effortlessly hauling extra weight. Pretty much every kind of bike has been made into an electric version which makes the joy of electric cycling accessible to so many people in so many ways.
Thrill-seekers and nature-lovers: fasten your harness and get ready to explore the outdoors from a new perspective—the treetops! Exhilarating views, physical and mental challenges and adrenaline-pumping excitement await. Afraid of heights? You can do this, too! Numerous safety features allow even the shakiest to feel secure on these awesome arbor adventures. (Fair warning: parents, you might actually love this more than your kids.)
Mount Hermon Adventures, Santa Cruz
Who doesn’t want to spend a day hanging out in the redwoods of the Santa Cruz mountains? Clip into the self-directed Sequoia Aerial Adventure which features 40 elements (with a maximum of 80 feet in height) and two zip lines, or opt for the Redwood Canopy Tour which includes two guides, six zip lines and two sky bridges at 150 feet in height. Either way, you’ll explore the redwoods in a way you never have before. Adults can celebrate with a “grand” margarita on the woodsy patio of the nearby Cowboy Bar and Grill.
Perfect for slightly younger kids and those who aren’t as accustomed to getting off the ground, Tree Top Sac offers adventures for adrenaline-seekers ages seven and older. Throughout five different parcours (courses), you’ll make your way across tight wires, bridges and slacklines 20 feet high. Each parcour ends with a zip line and a soft (but thrilling) landing.
1300 Lake Washington Blvd. West Sacramento, CA Ages: 7 & up Online: treetopsac.com
Sonoma Zipline Adventures, Sonoma
Up high in the sweet-scented Sonoma redwoods, the Tree Tops Course at Sonoma Zipline Adventures will take you 250 feet above ground and up to 40 mph on seven zip lines and two sky bridges. The Forest Flight comes with a personal guide and seven zip lines including one that’s 800 feet long. On Fridays and Saturdays, try the Night Flight—a bucolic escapade under the moon and stars! For a unique getaway, stay the night in a treehouse (dinner and breakfast included) and wake up next to the birds singing in the canopies.
A non-profit ropes course that’s been around for 30 years, Challenge Sonoma is located on Sonoma Mountain just four miles from the town of Sonoma. Open days for families and individuals are offered at least once a month. You and your kiddos will find ground-level cooperative games, low-challenge activities and several high-challenges, including the Vertical Playpen, the Burma Bridge and a scenic zip line along a creek. Rest up afterwards with a picnic at a nearby winery like B.R. Cohn Winery. You’ve earned it!
This unique setting is not exactly in the treetops, but you’ll still reach soaring heights and have spectacular views. Climb, twist and swing through this incredible 60-foot deep, 160-year old rock quarry. Along with aerial adventures, you’ll find rock climbing, paddle boats, rappelling and zip lines. Three levels of aerial challenges are available on Pinnacle Pete’s Aerial Adventure, including more than 60 elements and heights of up to three stories high. In fall and winter, adventures are available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and groups can book ahead of time throughout the week. Check the website for updates and current opening status.
5373 Pacific St Rocklin, CA Ages: Guests under 12 must weigh at least 45 lbs and be accompanied by someone 14 or older. Online: quarrypark.www2.gmgstaging.com
Fort Miley (Pacific Leadership Institute), San Francisco
For an easily accessible adventure nestled in four acres of forest within the city, this is a great opportunity for locals to spend time outdoors while building confidence, leadership and trust. The course builds from low elements to high ones, including an awesome zip line. Community days are offered on the first Sunday of every month from 1-4p.m. Participants must be 10 or older.
Fort Miley Ropes Course San Francisco, CA Ages: 10 & up (on community days) Online: pliprograms.org
Consisting of nine high ropes challenges as well as some low elements, this newly built course in San Francisco’s John McLaren Park is another great opportunity for city kids to get outside and challenge themselves at the same time. The course is open one Saturday each month for community members from 9 a.m. to 12:30 pm, and tours are accompanied by an Outward Bound instructor. Check the website for availability as spaces fill up quickly.
With a minimum age of five and three locations within the Tahoe region, families will find all kinds of adventure in the gorgeous canopies of the Tahoe National Forest. Most aerial courses involve anywhere from seven to twelve tree platforms. In between each one, you’ll navigate rope swings, bridges, swinging logs, tightropes, nets, horizontal climbing walls and more. Zip lines are interspersed throughout the courses, providing an exhilarating burst between challenging obstacles.
Locations: Tahoe City, Squaw Valley, Tahoe Vista Ages: 5 & up Online: tahoetreetop.com
Margarita Adventures, Santa Margarita
Kate Loweth
If you’re heading to laidback Central Cal and you’re in the mood for more of a ride than a workout, check out Margarita Adventures where you can skip the ropes course and head straight to the zip lines. Hook up and fly down six zip lines over vineyards and rolling hills, and enjoy a stunning walk across a 300-foot suspension bridge. You can also join a nature and wildlife tour, either by Hummer or on foot, where a naturalist will point out native plants and wildlife in the area.
22719 El Camino Real Santa Margarita, CA Weight Requirements: Anyone between 30 and 275 lbs can ride (at least 36 inches tall) Online:margarita-adventures.com
—Julie Honan Johnston featured photo by Go Tahoe North
We’ve all heard the expression, “The days are long but the years are short.” And that has never felt truer than when you realize your snuggly newborn has suddenly transformed into a toddler who’s holding your hand for a walk around the block. (Sniff, sniff.). Throughout the first year, your little one will go from one movement milestone to the next. Here’s what to expect, along with tips to foster curiosity and safe exploration of their exciting world.
Like any milestone, babies follow their own timetables. If you have any concerns about their development, talk to your pediatrician.
Is tummy time always a favorite activity? Nope. Most newborns prefer to be held, rather than doing this hard work. Tummy time helps build head, arm, and neck muscles that pave the way for more mobility. Seven weeks is a good time to try placing your baby on their tummy a couple times a day. They may only be able to keep their bobble head up for a few seconds, but they’ll build up to longer lengths of time. Don’t give up, even if you’re seeing some fussing. Distraction with a favorite toy in front helps shift their focus.
Let’s roll
All of that upper body strength building sets the scene for rolling, starting around four months. Going from front to back is more common than rolling from back to front at first, but rolling progression isn’t an exact science. One thing’s for sure: once they start, they won’t want to stop. Moving from one end of the living room to the other is fun for budding explorers. Keep a constant eye on your traveling baby and make sure childproofing is in place.
Sitting on top of the world
Anywhere from four months to eight months, you may see signs of your tot trying to sit. Good head control is important for sitting to be successful. You can support the gradual process by seating them upright on your lap often. When they’ve built up the strength to sit on their own, make sure it’s on a soft activity mat (not unattended on a couch or bed) and that you’re very close by to catch them should they topple back. This exciting new posture gives their favorite toys a whole new vantage point!
Cute crawling
Sitting unsupported (with the ability to independently move into and out of a seated position), rocking on all fours, and rolling are the major clues that crawling comes next. This movement milestone usually occurs between 7-10 months. Place their favorite toys just out of reach so they eagerly crawl to get to them. Some babies create their own unique “scoot” and work their way straight to walking (skipping crawling altogether!). It’s especially important that secure baby gates block the stairs.
Cruising (cool shades, optional)
The next step towards walking is pulling up, followed by cruising. Usually between 8-12 months, your busy baby will start using furniture and crib bars to stand tall and see their world. (Dressers, TV stands, and bookshelves should be securely mounted to the wall in case they want to use them as “props.”) They’ll also use furniture to support them as they shuffle around. The more opportunities you give babies to move (even if they’re unsteady and you’re in a constant state of panic—welcome to parenthood!), the better. You can walk with your baby, by holding onto both of their hands as they take little steps.
We’ve got a walker!
Alas, all that muscle strengthening, coordination, balance, and confidence building has led to walking. Many babies’ take their first steps around their first birthday (but it can happen earlier or later). It’ll start with a few wobbly steps and lots of wobbly falls. But the more practice, the more confidence and control. You’ll see your baby become able to walk in different directions, and even squat to pick something up and continue on their way! Indoors, your little one doesn’t need shoes. Walking around barefoot or in socks greatly supports healthy foot development. But if you’re heading outside on a walk, closed-toe, flexible shoes provide excellent support and protection.
How you can encourage exploration.
Boost resilience. Falls happen. Stay close by and provide reassurance after a fall that it’s okay and they can try again!
Add a new toy into the rotation. Push toys can help little ones work on standing and moving from place to place with some extra “help.”
Let them roam. You may be used to putting them in the stroller, swing, and activity center throughout the day. Try to minimize the use of those contraptions and give them lots of time to move about and work on their new skills.
Create new ways to explore. Who knew Tupperware and spatulas were so exciting? Put together a baby-safe (low) cabinet full of kitchen objects like plastic bowls and wooden spoons. Let them sort, stack, and bang.
Help them “help” you. While it’s not the most efficient way to get things done, opportunities to be helpful are wonderful for giving babies a sense of independence. Whether that’s sorting socks or cleaning up toys, little tasks go a long way.
Add a pet to the mix! Even though they’re little, babies and toddlers can learn from their parents how to care for and be kind to animals. They can help with getting supplies ready, joining you for walks, adding water to the dog bowl when it’s low and providing plenty of snuggles to your furry family member.
Goblins, ghosts and… garlic?! You read that right, and this new graphic novel about Garlic, a brave little veggie and delightfully unusual heroine, is one of our favorite new reads of the season—it’s the perfect Halloween treat (and won’t stick to your teeth!). If you’re looking to build confidence in your little ghoul’s reading skills (ages 6+) or just fill their fall with a cozy adventuresome read, Garlic & the Vampire by Bree Paulsen is the farm-fresh book you need on your shelf now.
Garlic feels as though she’s always doing something wrong. At least with her friend Carrot by her side and the kindly Witch Agnes encouraging her, Garlic is happy to just tend her garden, where it’s nice and safe. But when her village of vegetable folk learns that a bloodthirsty vampire has moved into the nearby castle, they all agree that, in spite of her fear and self-doubt, Garlic is the obvious choice to confront him. And with everyone counting on her, Garlic reluctantly agrees to face the mysterious vampire, hoping she has what it takes.
"In this down comforter of a graphic novel, Garlic discovers that she is braver and more capable than she ever believed when she is called upon to save her friends. The color palette is folkloric, drawing on lush earth tones to highlight this cozy little village where people and vegetables live harmoniously—this is cottagecore through and through."
— Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review)
"Gorgeous artwork featuring anthropomorphized plants and colors reminiscent of those used in Kate Greenaway stories make this a joy to read... Perfect for chapter-book readers and up, this will delight anyone wanting a light adventure heavy on friendship and self-actualization."
As parents, we highly value education. While on the hunt for a school with exceptional academics it can be easy to forget one crucial component: emotional learning, otherwise known as “EQ”. For 145 years, Sacred Heart Schools has been instilling a love of learning in students, while shaping them to achieve their best and be their best selves. With the support of exceptional teachers and staff, their approach to education combines a challenging curriculum within a nurturing environment.
Sacred Heart is a Catholic, independent, PK-8 school that welcomes students of all faiths, races, and socio-economic backgrounds. In fact, 40% of the students are not Catholic; all major faiths are represented in a wide range of learners. As an independent school, Sacred Heart benefits from their relationship with the Chicago Archdiocese, but is self-governing and free to craft their own unique vision and innovative curriculum. As one parent says, “The school does an excellent job, regardless of your religious affiliation, of teaching children how to create and navigate their own moral compass.”
Sacred Heart Education Is Accessible to All Students
The tuition assistance program helps make Sacred Heart education accessible to children from all backgrounds, regardless of their financial means. Varying awards are made based upon demonstrated need, up to 95% of tuition. Nearly 30% of Sacred Heart students receive some level of tuition assistance.
In this welcoming, diverse school community, students feel valued, cared for, respected, and celebrated. Sacred Heart Schools serves children in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade in three academic groups: Primary School (grades PK-2), Lower School (grades 3-5) and Middle School (grades 6-8). Preschool and senior kindergarten are coed, and grade level classrooms are organized by gender—giving children an opportunity to develop their own voice and build confidence within themselves. However, many elements of campus life are coeducational.
Students Are Enriched Beyond the Classroom
With 40 different after-school clubs and classes and 50 competitive sports teams, there’s no shortage of extracurricular activities to pique your child’s interests and continue their learning when the school day is done. (FYI: It’s one of the largest elementary school athletic programs in Illinois!) From dance to music lessons, Science Olympiad to basketball, students can choose from a range of offerings to solidify friendships and be involved. Families can also choose to enroll their children in Before and After School Care. (Before School Care is free for students in PK-8 and After School Care is free for SK-8 students.)
Students Are Committed to Social Justice and Making the World a Better Place
Sacred Heart is guided by five principles— faith, intellect, service, community, and personal growth. Social justice is woven into the curriculum at Sacred Heart Schools—providing students the chance to give back and see the meaningful impact of their actions. Instilling strong values shapes students into active and informed members of the local community and responsible global citizens.
Approximately 95% of Sacred Heart’s students are accepted to their first-choice high school. Students are thoughtfully guided through a high school counseling program where emphasis is placed on helping students find a secondary school that’s the best fit for their learning styles and interests. 8th graders leave well prepared for high school—quickly becoming leaders in academics, extracurriculars, and their new school community.
One day you’re reading board books to your baby (while he or she simultaneously tries to chew on them). The next thing you know, that little one has grown into a big kid who’s ready to read independently. Scholastic’s early reader line, Acorn, is perfect for children ages 4-7. Here’s why kids (and their parents!) love them:
The Format Is Fun!
Each book contains three to five short stories about endearing characters. Kids can read the stories in a row or in any order they’d like. FYI: Giving kids this simple choice in how they read creates a sense of accomplishment. In addition, each page contains vibrant full-color illustrations—making them inviting and accessible (not intimidating!)—and text is easy to read and its humorous tone is a crowd-pleaser for silly kiddos. Some of the books have color-coded speech bubbles, just like graphic novels. This feature helps introduce dialogue, making reading aloud even more entertaining.
They Build Confidence
It can be a challenge to find early chapter books that kids actually enjoy. Acorn make them feel confident in their reading abilities and encourage them to keep going! Activities at the end of each book maximize the reading experience with “how-to-draw” instructions and writing prompts (hello, future authors and illustrators!). These extension activities give kids additional ways to engage with the characters, while offering parents insight into their reading comprehension.
There’s a Series for Every Reader
There are 12 series in the Acorn line, with more in the works. From friendship to magic, the wide array of genres makes it simple to find a just-right read for your kiddo. There’s even a “horror-lite” series on the list for kids who like spooky stories, called Mister Shivers! The Dragon series by Dav Pilkey (author of Captain Underpants and Dog Man) is a fan favorite. BFFs Unicorn and Yeti are great for those who love magical creatures. Princess Truly is an empowering series about a young girl. And Hello, Hedgehog is an adorable friendship series focused on achieving big childhood milestones and helping pals overcome fears.
No Levels, No Problem.
Kids are used to seeing levels on their books. Not on these! Although books align with leveling guidelines, Acorn doesn’t put levels on the covers to keep kids from feeling pigeon-holed. They meet kids right where they are on their reading journey.
They’re Educator Approved.
Acorn executive editor Katie Carella was a teacher herself! She saw how difficult it was to find high-quality, interesting early readers for her students, which inspired her to create this line. Teachers across the country are big fans—making sure their classroom bookshelves are stocked with Acorn essentials! “The format made it feel similar to the higher-level books they see their older siblings reading, such as Captain Underpants and Dog Man, so they were excited to read it by themselves,” says a first-grade teacher, Sharon.
For kids, when it comes to heading back to school, reconnecting with classmates and meeting new teachers can be thrilling, but the process can also provoke a mix of excitement and anxiety too (especially if it’s their first time back since 2020). We found a few experts to weigh in on the best ways to quell those first-day butterflies. See what they had to say below.
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1. Start adjusting schedules now. The first day of school might be a few days (or weeks) away, but it’s never too early to start re-adjusting schedules back to early morning mode. That means switching from late nights and lazy mornings to reasonable bedtimes and early rising.
2. Do a practice run. Before school starts, it’s helpful for students and parents to familiarize themselves with a new school or a new classroom. Visit the school during the summer break and, if possible, visit the classroom where your child will be attending. Mark Griffin, the headmaster of Eagle Hill School in Connecticut, says a classroom visit can help to alleviate the fear of the unknown for an anxious student.
3. Involve your child in decision making. Whether it’s encouraging your kid to pick out her new school supplies or asking your child what he wants to pack for lunch, letting them have a say in what they can expect in the coming school year will give them a sense of control and confidence. Eleanor Mackey, a psychologist with Children's National Health System in Washington, D.C., says allowing kids to be engaged with finding solutions can help them feel better about potentially scary situations.
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4. Validate your child’s feelings. Some parents may dismiss a child’s fears of going back to school or miss cues that may reveal something deeper than mere nervousness. “Kids are resilient, but it’s good to validate what they are feeling,” says Allison Wilson, director of curriculum and innovation at Stratford School in Southern and Northern California. “Parents sharing their own stories about their first day of school or about other changes they’ve experienced can resonate with kids and make them feel less worried.”
5. Establish a routine. Going back to school signals the return of the ultimate routine for students and parents. Beyond re-establishing healthy bedtime and waking schedules, well-kept routines like homework, after-school activities, and mealtimes can help students focus on being prepared at school and help families get back into the swing of balancing academics and social lives.
6. Talk about it. Wilson encourages parents to be open to talking about a child’s fears before and after the start of the new school year. “Dialogue can be open-ended, but ask specific questions,” Wilson says. “Don’t ask general questions like, ‘How was your day?’ Be specific, ‘What did you draw in art class today?’ ” In addition, Wilson says parents should model open talk by sharing the highs and lows of their own days.
7. Remember that one size does not fit all. A variety of factors may influence the impact of going back to school and any corresponding anxiety that a student feels. Whether it’s a kindergartner starting full-day school or a middle schooler transitioning to using a locker for the first time, it’s important to recognize that not every child will have the same reactions to new situations. Scholastic offers some helpful tips for ensuring that each kid gets the kind of individualized support they need, including not assuming that your child’s experience will be the same as yours in school.
8. Consider different milestones. In the same way that not all students will experience similar levels of anxiety at the start of the school year, it’s important to consider the differences between entering different grades, different schools or different social dynamics. Meeting your child where she is and the circumstances surrounding the changes being experienced—rather than forcing your perspectives and fears onto your child—will help to calm nerves.
9. Do your homework. There are plenty of resources that can help parents and students cope with back-to-school anxiety, including a wide variety of books that address the topic in humorous and relatable ways for kids. From The Pout Pout Fish Goes to School to Second Grade, Here I Come!, reading stories with your child about what it’s like to go back to school can be a fun, shared activity. Find our favorite back-to-school reads here.
10. Don’t prejudge too quickly. As parents, we like to believe that we’re attuned to what’s going on with our own kid at all times, but sometimes we may mistakenly diagnose back-to-school anxiety when the culprit might be something else entirely. Wilson says, “Maybe it’s not fear or anxiety. The jitters could be excitement or simply not knowing what’s ahead.” Active listening and supporting your child can help to discern the difference between an issue that’s big or small.
11. Host a playdate. Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Children’s Center provides useful resources and tips for parents and students coping with back-to-school anxiety, including hosting an after-school playdate with a fellow student in order to start getting acclimated to being around classmates before the first day of school.
12. Review past successes. Although the previous school year may seem light-years away, reviewing with your child his successful completion of the prior school year will help set him up for success in the coming year. Jessica Borelli, associate professor of psychology at the University of California, Irvine, says reminding a student of their past achievements will help build confidence for the impending new school year.
13. Have one last hurrah. Before the start of school, spend some quality time together as a family. Take a road trip, splurge on a fancy family meal, or have a surprise adventure. Arming kids with fond memories of what they did over the summer, aside from sleeping in or going to the beach or pool, will give them conversation starters with their peers and fuel them to get through the first few weeks and months of classes.
14. Get organized. In the days and weeks leading up to the start of school, make sure supplies are purchased, pantries are well-stocked, and back-to-school clothes are ready to go. Nothing exacerbates back-to-school jitters like disorganization and chaos at home.
15. Keep calm and carry on. “Children are really intuitive and adults sometimes don’t see that,” says Wilson. “We may be projecting our own anxieties on our children, which can make the situation worse.” Instead of obsessing about the unknown with your child, remain collected and focused on all of the positive aspects of starting a new school year.
On the new series Elinor Wonders Why, observant bunny rabbit Elinor and her young friends indulge their curiosity about how the world works, learning basic scientific skills to answer their own questions about science, nature, and life in general.
My young daughter loves going on nature walks to examine and collect flowers to make “tea” for her dolls. These jaunts around the neighborhood are often her favorite part of the day. (And mine, too!) In fact, preschoolers are naturally curious, and getting outside with them and exploring nature is a perfect way to learn about science and how to question in an age-appropriate way. In fact, exploring nature has myriad benefits, says pediatric neuropsychologist Dr. Jennifer Katzenstein of the Johns Hopkins Center for Behavioral Health.
“Research suggests that more outdoor time is protective for children’s mental health, and allowing children the opportunity to physically explore their outdoor environment, while also engaging them in an understanding of nature and our outdoor world, helps build confidence and cognitive skills,” says Dr. Katzenstein. Bonus: It also gets them physically moving, which can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep. (More sleep at this age is always a win, both for children and tired parents!)
Here are six great ways to explore nature with your preschooler:
1. Make it a habit to go outside.
Whether observing how ants cooperate to build nests or how leaves and feathers each fall softly, Elinor is always outside observing nature. Young children not only love the outdoors but also thrive on routine, so by making outdoor play a regular part of your daily habits, they’ll learn to eagerly anticipate the exploration time.
“Outdoor play may provide unique opportunities for children to observe and engage with diverse objects, which may facilitate learning,” says Daniel Bagner, Psychology Professor at Florida International University’s Center for Children and Families. “For example, if a child throws a rock in a pond, they may learn about density.”
Especially these days, after months of many young children sheltering in place and barely leaving their homes, it’s important—both physically and mentally—for young kids to have outdoor time whenever possible. Consider setting aside dedicated time every day—say, after lunch, or before the nightly bath—to regularly get outside together and explore.
2. Ask questions and encourage questions.
In the eyes of a young child, everything is new and exciting, so asking gentle questions can not only lead to creativity breakthroughs but can also cause them to ponder new questions. And, after all, sometimes the simplest questions can lead to the most profound answers and are wonderful learning opportunities for your children.
When Elinor’s dad is having trouble sleeping in because of loud birds just outside his window, Elinor wonders why birds sing. She eventually realizes that birds sing to communicate, just as humans talk to communicate—and by questioning, Elinor is able to understand how animals get their vital needs met.
3. Draw in a nature journal.
For children, the world is full of wonder and designed to be explored—ideally hands-on. You don’t need to venture far: even the backyard, neighborhood sidewalk, or local park is fertile ground for a young imagination. Elinor has incredible powers of observation, examining everything from how flowers attract bees through color and smell, to the way spittle bugs use their bodies like straws to blow small bubbles.
Encourage your own children’s powers of observation with a nature journal. Ask them to draw what they see: everything from parts of a plant trees to different body parts of animals is fodder for creativity and imaginative learning.
Take it to the next level by creating multimedia projects, such as gluing or taping leaves and flowers collected on walks to your children’s drawings. Other ideas: make leaf rubbings, create poems together about what you’ve seen, or outline seeds and rocks collected on the neighborhood journey.
4. Use field guides to help identify and learn about what you discover.
While observing butterflies and caterpillars, Elinor and her friends realize they’ve never seen a baby butterfly—and eventually learn that caterpillars themselves are baby butterflies! If your children seem interested in a certain aspect of nature—whether plants, birds, or bugs—you can create a field guide together. Identify all the regular specimens you come into contact with and go into detail about their parts.
Once you’re done creating your guide, take it and set off together on a scavenger hunt to locate all the varietals. Your children will be proud and have a sense of accomplishment when they check all the boxes and complete the nature quest.
Another possibility: encourage them to keep notebooks—just like Olive—writing (or drawing, if they’re too young!) observations about what they find.
5. Get a closer look at features on plants, natural objects, and animals.
It can be easy to let nature pass you by and not notice the intricate details. Go on a nature walk with your kids, like in Elinor’s Nature Adventure game, and encourage your children to take careful note of what they see.
By connecting what they observe in nature to how the world at large works, children will learn that scientific practices can be used anywhere to build knowledge as their curiosity is engaged.
After all, as Elinor always says, “We need more observations!”
6. Dig deeper.
Can’t remember why leaves are green? Don’t worry if you don’t have the answer. Just like in Elinor, while it is important to be helpful and responsive, it’s not necessary to be an encyclopedia. Elinor’s parents and the other adults in Elinor Wonders Why may not always know the answers, but they do always gently guide Elinor and her friends to figure out things for themselves. The most important thing is encouraging further questioning.
Consider answering your child’s question in an open-ended way by saying, “I’m not sure. How can we figure that out?” Parents can also ask children whether it’s a question they should look up or if it can be investigated out in the world.
PBS KIDS believes the world is full of possibilities, and so is every child. As the number one educational media brand for kids, PBS KIDS helps children learn life lessons, explore their feelings and discover new adventures, while seeing themselves uniquely reflected and celebrated in lovable, diverse characters through television, digital media, and community-based programs.
