ML Interest Tag: chicken-coop

We’re Freaking Out Over This Real Farm Vacation

by rtcaitlindowling

Love farm-to-table? You can’t handle this farm-to-table! (Actually, you can, and you really should.) That’s right, we found a super family-friendly vacation at a real, live working farm, complete with pastoral vistas, home cookin’, your own private cottage and more cute animals than you can shake a stick at. Plus: actual farm work the kids will love. (Your toddler can milk a cow. Need we say more?)

photo: via Hull-O Farms Facebook page

Welcome to Hull-O Farms!
Looking like something straight out of one of your kids’ story books, Hull-O Farms is located in a beautiful area of the Catskills, about a two hour drive from New York City. The farm itself has been in the Hull family for over 200 years, and seven generations. The Hulls — Farmer Frank and his wife Sherry (you’ll think of her as a second mom by the time you leave) head the daily operations of the farm with their sons, and have been welcoming guests to be part of the family for 22 years. (The duo has dubbed the visits, “Family Farm-stay Vacations.”)

There may not be a pool or beach here, but this is an actual working farm and your family will get to join the ranks of farm hands during your stay. At the center of the farm is a picture-perfect white farmhouse surrounded by a barn and rolling fields filled with farm animals. At any given time, you may happen upon a calf, kitten or sheep, to name a few of the properties’ four-legged inhabitants.

photo: milking a cow via Caitlin Dowling

Daily Chores
When we say “working farm” we mean it (in a good way of course!). Upon check-in, visitors are given a schedule for their stay. The main chore of newbie farmhands (that’s you) is to feed the animals, which eat twice a day: once in the morning and again in the early evening. Rest assured, this will quickly become the highlight of your little farmer’s day, and you will probably like it, too. (The calves and goats need milk, the chickens and pigs need feed, and the bunnies need their grass and hay.)

photo: feeding a calf via Caitlin Dowling

After having your own breakfast it’s time to hit the chicken coop to collect eggs. Don’t worry if your less than delicate two-year-old breaks an egg, consider it a rite of passage.

photo: chicken coop via Caitlin Dowling

Don’t worry, in between chores there’s plenty of downtime for relaxing or a day trip. However, if the family gets really into it, there’s always something to do to keep the farm running.  Visiting and snuggling with the kittens and bunnies is also always an option — yet another Kodak moment at Hull-O.

photo: bunnies on the farm via Caitlin Dowling

Food: Come and Get It!
Yes, Sherry Hull really does ring a big old dinner bell when it’s time to eat (regardless of the meal). Make sure you come hungry because she’s is going to make sure you get your fill of her home cooking, and it’s likely you’ll want seconds and thirds.

photo: breakfast on the farm via Caitlin Dowling

Meals are served in the farmhouse dining room and it’s a communal affair with all the other guests. Expect homey dishes and ingredients like farm fresh eggs, sausage and pancakes for breakfast and homemade lasagna, roast beef, fresh vegetables, homemade pie and brownies for dinner and dessert. For those picky eaters in the family, there are also kid meals upon request. Breakfast and dinner are served daily and included in your stay.

If you like what you’re eating, the farm sells products to take back home, including pancake mix, farm eggs, and fresh meats.

photo: Hull-O Farms

Country Living
After a fun day on the farm, your family will return to its own private country home. Hull-O farm has three different houses available for rent, which range in size from two- to four- bedrooms, all of which are outfitted with bathrooms and full kitchens.

Prices vary depending on the day and season, and rates start at $250 for a four person family in the winter and spring and increase during the more popular summer months. Sheets and towels and soap are provided, but consider this similar to a B&B stay, so make sure to pack your own toiletries and other necessities. There are stores within driving distance if you forget to bring something, but remember, you’re in the country and there isn’t a 24-hour Duane Reade on the corner.

photo: Gifford House via Hull-O Farms

More Fun on the Farm, in All Season
As if the animals weren’t enough, Hull-O Farms offers more opportunities for additional country fun. Spend your free time fishing in the pond, cruising the fields on a hayride, or spinning on tire swings. And you can expect a good old fashion bonfire party at least one night of your stay, complete with the making of s’mores.

At the end of summer, a corn maze is open where you can go ‘get lost’, and in the fall, visitors can check out the pumpkin patch.

 

photo: via Zoom Flume Water Park

Local Attractions Beyond the Farm
During the afternoon you’re encouraged to get out and explore. If you do nothing else, go for a simple drive and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Catskills. While you’re out cruising consider stopping in to one of these popular local spots.

Zoom Flume Water Park
During the summer months, you may want a way to cool down. Right down the road is a waterpark filled with slides and pools where families with kids of all ages can make a splash.

 

photo: Howe Caverns via Caitlin Dowling

Howe Caverns
A scenic 45 minute drive from the farm is Howe Caverns. Take an elevator 156 feet below the Earth’s surface to explore a prehistoric underground cavern six million years in the making; you even a short boat ride as part of the tour. (Tip: it gets cold that far below the Earth’s surface, so even in the summer, bring a sweatshirt.)

Hull-O Farms
10 Cochrane Rd.
Durham, NY 12422
518-239-6950
Online: hull-o.com

Has your family ever taken a farm vacation? Let us know in the comments below!

—Caitlin Dowling

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North County’s Destination for Imagination and Exploration

by Kelly Powell

San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum (SDCDM) is on a mission to inspire young minds to learn about the world. Instead of hearing, “hands off,” kiddos are encouraged to touch pretty much everything at this awesome space in Escondido. Science, art, and global cultures combine to create a hands-on experience that is sure to fascinate your most curious explorers. Through exploration, imagination and experimentation, learning has never been more fun. We’ve got the inside scoop on how to make the most of your visit.

Indoor Imagination
All aboard Discovery Sailboat! Your little captains can strap on a life jacket and take the steering wheel to navigate the high seas, or hang out with the crew below deck. Next, the kiddos can trade in their captain costumes for a princess dress or maybe a dinosaur, and role-play on Imagination Stage. Complete the production with musical instruments, puppets, and other props for a show-stopping performance.

Your savvy shoppers can explore the marketplace and learn about the home life of cultures from around the world in the Kids Global Village. They’ll love pushing around the mini shopping carts as they browse the plentiful selection of play food. They can even weigh it on the scale and “buy” it using pretend money at the cash registers. Every other month, the Global Village is redesigned to reflect a particular culture that is being celebrated (think Brazil, Russia, India, etc.).

Be sure to check out the hands-on science exhibits like the Magnetic Ball Wall, Magnification Station, and Building Stations. These activities are sure to mystify young minds as they use their technology and engineering skills to make them work. And who knew that watching scarves get sucked up the “magic” Wind Tunnel could be so entertaining?

Even the youngest explorers will have plenty to do in the Toddler Tide Pool, a separate area with tactile and sensory games and activities just for them. With things to climb and blocks to stack, along with a cozy Reading Book Nook, little ones will feel right at home.

Outdoor Exploration
For a breath of fresh air, head on outside to the Children’s Discovery Garden, which features a variety of nature-based science activities and offers never-ending fun for explorers of all ages. There’s everything from a plant nursery to an earthworm farm to a chicken coop, all aimed to help children learn about things like nutrition, ecosystems and sustainability.

Photo: SDCDM

Little ones will love making a splash in the Water Wise interactive and living water table, promoting water conservation and pollution prevention. Of course “everything is awesome” when there’s lots of LEGO involved! Next, kids will feel like a real archaeologist while they dig around for fossils and search for artifacts in Base Camp, aka a giant sandbox.

Little gardeners will love the Edible Gardens where they can touch, smell, and taste fresh plants and herbs. Yummy! Giant foam blocks, bubbles, and hula hoops of all sizes are also outside so there’s plenty to do for the younger adventurers.

While you’re outside, make sure to check out the newly opened Outdoor Art Studio. This is an amazing space for kids to be creative and explore with a variety of art mediums including painting, sculpting, watercolors and more! It’s okay to get messy; there’s a convenient hand washing station to clean up after your masterpiece is created. Check the online calendar for a current listing of all Outdoor Art Studio Workshops.

Photo: SDCDM

Programs and Special Events
SDCDM offers plenty of fun and educational programs throughout the year like daily story time, themed Thursday afternoon workshops, discovery camps, and afternoon artists. Escondido Roots Series is a special event held on the third Saturday of alternating months from 2 – 4 p.m. During this free program, kiddos and their families will learn about world cultures while enjoying live performances, crafts, costumes, and more.

Join Curious George, Wild Kratts, Dinosaur Train, and all your favorite PBS Kids characters for a special monthly event called KPBS Kids Workshop. Each workshop includes hands-on activities, interactive presentations, and often a special visit from the characters themselves! The price of KPBS Kids Workshop is included with your Museum admission. Exact dates and times vary, but generally workshops are help on the second Saturday of the month. Check online for the schedule and arrive early as spots fill up fast!

Photo: SDCDM

Insider Tips
Parking is free in the museum parking lot located in front and on the side of the building. Overflow parking is available on the street.

Beat the heat! On a hot day, you’ll love the fact that there is air conditioning inside the museum to keep everyone cool.

The museum offers a variety of healthy snacks and drinks for purchase, but you’re also welcome to bring your own food and drink, as long as everything is peanut free. So pack up a picnic and enjoy your food in the indoor community café or outside at the picnic tables.

Free Wi-Fi is available to guests. Just ask for the password at the front desk.

While you’re in the area, Grape Day Park is located across the street, just look for the giant grapes! Also, local shops and restaurants are just two blocks away on Escondido’s historic Grand Avenue.

Open Daily: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Free/ Members* (and children under the age of 1)
$6.00/ Kids and adults
Military Family Discount: $3.00 per person
Group Rate (10 or more people): $5.00 per person

San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
320 N. Broadway
Escondido, Ca 92025
760-233-7755
Online: http://sdcdm.org

Have you been to San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum yet? What did your kids love the most?

— Kelly Powell (photos too, unless otherwise noted)

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Parenting Style Primer: What Kind of Parent Will You Be?

by Haley Burress

With Baby on the way, you’re well versed in baby registries and baby showers, but you may still need to rack up a few diaper blowouts and sleepless nights before you’ll speak fluent “parent talk” at the playground. No idea what a helicopter parent or tiger mom is yet? This is your chance to get in the know before you enter parenthood, and you may even get a better understanding of what type of parent you’ll be. Remember, these categories are the extremes and no matter what styles you follow – you’re going to be a great parent.

Photo: Monica Navarro Aranda via Flickr

The Free Range Parent

You may have heard about the free range parents who get in trouble with the law for letting their kids walk to the park alone, but free range parenting is about more than that. If you value independence in your child and want to nurture that spirit by letting them have experiences outside of the home – and without you – free range parenting might be the ticket for you. In a lighter sense, you might just let your kid play a little farther away from you at the playground, or take a few more chances on the jungle gym.

Photo: Mike via Flickr

The Helicopter Parent

Almost the exact opposite of the free range parent, the helicopter parent is never too far away from the child. These hovering moms and dads are often the ones who stay for group children-only birthday parties, well past preschool and elementary school. Helicopter parents keep their child anxiety-free because the child knows the parent will be around for every need and safety concern.

Photo: Tambako The Jaguar via Flickr

Tiger Mom

Known after a tell-all book published a few years ago got everyone at the playground talking, being a tiger mom is serious business. Tiger moms often are the strict ones, forbidding not just screen time but sleepovers and playdates. If you want your child to get straight A’s as well as excel in the creative arts, and don’t mind being very no-nonsense around your home and kids, you may be a tiger parent. Beware of televisions and other non-academic distractions!

Photo: James Less via Flickr

Crunchy Parenting

Known for their love of all-natural, organic and farm-to-table food that they pull out of their diaper bags at playdates, crunchy parents work hard to keep the amount of sugar and GMOs low in their child’s environment and body. If you want your own chicken coop in the backyard, are serious about banning superhero fruit snacks in all preschools, and could honestly convince your child to eat a vegan diet, crunchy may be your style. Keep your eyes peeled for gluten, doctors who are not chiropractors, and red dye #5.

Photo: makelessnoise via Flickr

We’re Doing the Best for Our Kiddos Parenting

Not one to go to extremes? Try the “We’re Doing the Best for Our Kiddos” style. These parents take things one step at a time. They are focused and in the moment during most interactions with their child, but know that it is okay to have Daniel Tiger babysit for 30 minutes so that they can take a quick call for work or make dinner. These parents cook at home most of the time, but know that pizza night can sometimes turn the entire day around for everyone in the family. Bath times are full of bubbles and singing, and bedtimes sometimes come early when the day has lasted for what feels like forever. Hugs are given freely, and kisses hit fluttering eyelashes and noses and cheeks and lips. Bouncing on the bed is a regular occurrence, but parents step in when child decisions could have unsafe consequences. Books happen before bed and during the day, and walks outside are full of picking up rocks from the neighbor’s driveway and treasures from the park. Hand sanitizer is almost always nearby, but if it’s not, it’s okay. If you love your child, have no idea about this whole parenting thing is all yet, but see it as the adventure of a lifetime and are ready to take it on as a family, We’re Doing the Best We Can for Our Kiddo is a natural fit. You won’t always know the answers, but you will understand that other parents don’t either – and give each other some grace and high fives for making it this far. Welcome to the club, parents.

How would you label your parenting style? Get creative and share it below?

–Haley Buress

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Fun Farm: Spend the Day at Frying Pan Park

by rthilaryriedemann

Pigs, cows, horses, turkeys, peacocks—these aren’t the usual beltway suspects when you think of living in D.C. But, if your family is longing for a simpler time, or just an afternoon away from the hustle and bustle, pack up some sandwiches and hit the road for Frying Pan Park. Kiddos will have a ball petting the sheep, checking out the pigs, and they can even try their hand at milking a cow. Since it’s a working farm, you’ll probably hear mooing, bleating, and baaing. We found it to be a nice respite from all the honking we hear on the beltway.

Photo: Jamie B. via Yelp

Plan Your Play
If the kids can stand to wait a few moments to see the livestock, hit up the visitor’s center to grab some info on the farm before swinging by the barns. You can get brochures, use the potty, and see a map that will show you around the farm. You may also check out the schedule of classes and events so the kids can tromp around helping with chores, shelling corn, and even taking a wagon ride. P.S. Near the entrance to the farm, is the Moffett Blacksmith Shop where kiddos can learn about blacksmithing, and how important smiths were to the community.

Truck (and Tractor) Touch
Equipment loving kiddos (and parents!) can wander around to The Antique Equipment Shed where turn of the century horse drawn and mechanized equipment reside. Not only do they have some early 1900 Fordson, John Deere and Farmall tractors, but they all work! Kids can see plows, combines and other gear that farmers used (and still use) to till, plant, harvest and work the land. The kids will be fascinated by the equipment, and super curious about the other buildings all around. There’s a smokehouse, dairy, corn crib, chicken coop, sheds, and even an outhouse! We didn’t ask if it was still functioning. The kiddos also get to check out the farmhands driving around doing chores like feeding the pigs, mucking stalls, checking on the babies, and baling hay. If the little ones want to actually ride a tractor, they’ll be out of luck, but there are a bunch of miniature tractors just outside the Middleton Barn where kids can ride, whoop, and pretend they’re the farmer in charge!

Photo: Tom G. via Yelp

Are You Ready to Party…Animals?
The littles will go udderly crazy for this part of Frying Pan Park. Cows, draft horses (complete with mice in the stalls!), sows (mama pigs), goats, lambs, and more are on display for the little ones to stare and gawk at. This time of year is perfect for introducing the fam to the tiniest farm animals, as the piglets, calves and lambs are all coming into the world, or are just a few weeks old. The super brave can pet the animals, and the bravest of the brave can even try their hand at milking a cow if you come around 4pm (double check the website for daily milking). Mini farm hands will fall in love with the lambs. A good scratch behind their ears, and the animals were in hog heaven! Uber lucky kids will get to see the male peacock in all his splendor, and maybe even get a honk or two out of him! The turkeys that President Obama pardoned at Thanksgiving live right next to the peacocks; while the ducks and their ducklings love hanging out in the tub around the corner. The barns, and pens, not only house the animals, but they let kids see what life is like on a farm. From milking pens, to hay lofts, and equipment used to move things around, the barns are more than just home to the livestock – they’re a glimpse into a farmer’s life, and what it would have been like to work on a farm in Fairfax County in the early 20th century.

Photo: Ryan D. via Yelp

Hitch a Ride
For even more fun, take a wagon ride! As the family rides around the farm, the little ones will learn about the history, land use, crop growing and get insider tidbits on the animals. Check the board outside the tractor play area for times. There’s also a vintage carousel on the grounds that lets pint sized farm goers go ‘round and round.

Shop ’til You Drop
Visitors looking for a cool beverage, a farm souvenir or who just need to cool off during the summer heat can step into the Country Store where ice cold water, toy tractors and lots of AC are available. They also have some restrooms a few feet away for the kids who just can’t make it back to the visitor’s center. Bonus: Across from the store is a small playground where kids can slide, swing, bounce, jump and race around to burn off some of that farm energy.

2709 West Ox Rd. (Herndon, Va)
Open: Daily
Online: fairfaxcounty.gov

—Hilary Riedemann

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6 Places That Teach Kids How to Care For Mother Earth

by Cherie Gough

Every day is Earth Day, a chance to teach our kids to care for the planet and help them see the interconnectedness we share. Even if you’re not headed out to an Earth Day celebration this month, we’ve rounded up some cool places to visit any day of the year. Click through the slideshow to check out our favorite spots to learn the importance of caring for the earth.

Take the Water Conservation Challenge

At the Children's Discovery Museum in Escondido the Discovery Garden is a bright, cheery place for hands-on exploration that teaches kids about gardening, complete with vegetable and pollinator gardens, composting and worms, and a chicken coop. In the Be Water Wise exhibit little ones meander outdoors and check out an aquaponics garden with fish, a watershed landscape made with Legos that they can manipulate to see the effects on the flow of water. With lots of hands-on discovery, kiddos are sure to remember to turn off the tap while brushing teeth.   

The month, the museum is excited to invite families to take its new Be Water Wise Challenge. Families take a water use survey and then receive resources to create their plan to save water. Participants are eligible to win an annual family membership to the museum!

Don't Miss: KPBS will host a water wise workshop and puppet show with the Lorax on April 11 from 10 a.m. - 12p.m.

320 N Broadway
Escondido, CA 92025
760-233-7755
Online: sdcdm.org

Photo Courtesy of Children's Discovery Museum

How do you celebrate Mother Earth? Give us some ideas in the Comments below!

— Cherie Gough

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