These coloring pages, color-by-number printables, mad libs, printable mazes, and activity pages for kids are all free
Our best remedy for long winter days? A healthy supply of printable activity pages for kids—because when it’s too chilly to go outside, exercising their brains is the next best thing. We’ve rounded up the coolest printables with a timely winter theme, from mad libs to paper snowflakes, free coloring pages, color-by-number printables, and more. Fire up the printer!
In what might be the cutest winter-themed activity page for kids we've seen, have your little ones 'apply' to be an elf at the North Pole. They'll have to answer questions like "Can you make a snowball?" and "Do you like candy canes?" and there's a spot for them to pick their preferred job in Santa's Village. Download it here.
This printable activity page for kids from Twisty Noodle is perfect for chilly days. Kids can flex their tracing skills, and then color in the hat however they like.
Create a silly story with these fun winter-themed Mad Libs. Get the printables (including ones about a snowstorm, ice skates, and winter facts) from Woo! Jr.
Thanks to Mr. Printables, it’s ridiculously easy to make your own paper dolls. Just print out the doll printables and winter-themed clothes, then roll them up and glue your creations together.
This activity from KCEdventures requires a bit of pre-planning, but it’s totally worth the effort. Print out the gingerbread people and hide them around the house, then let the kids hunt for them all!
Let your budding artist unleash their creativity on these snowflakes from First Palette. Available in different sizes and designs, they can color them, cut them out, and even use them to make a garland or another craft.
The kiddos can practice counting and work on their fine motor skills with this genius printable from Itsy Bitsy Fun. Plus, they’re always lured in by playdough!
This cute activity sheet for kids from The Resourceful Mama is sure to be a hit with your little ones. If you’ve got dot markers, they can fill them in with those, or you can use pom poms or regular markers.
Stuck inside during a snowstorm? This I Spy game from Simple Play Ideas will be a lifesaver. It’ll put your kids’ finding and counting skills to the test.
We love this winter printable from Life Over C’s that’s sure to keep the kids occupied for an afternoon. Once you’ve printed out the pieces, encourage your littles to create different patterns on their mats.
If your kiddo’s got a handle on reading, you’ve got to use this word search printable from Real Life at Home. Hunker down by the fire while looking for words like reindeer and blizzard.
Let the tots work on their fine motor skills with these cute lacing cards from Living Life and Learning. The set includes a snowflake, reindeer, and gingerbread man.
Keep it simple by printing out this fun coloring page from Trail of Colors. Kids will love decorating the mittens, hat, and scarf whether or not it’s snowing where you live.
Even if it doesn’t snow where you live, kids can still build a snowman thanks to this clever worksheet from Totschooling. Plus, they’ll get to practice matching shapes while they’re at it.
Print out this page from You Clever Monkey to help your kids build fine motor skills. Have them decorate the tree with playdough, buttons, or small beads. You can even make it into a counting or alphabet game.
To keep the kiddos occupied for an afternoon, print out and laminate this winter scene from Living Well Mom. Then they can get creative building and decorating snowballs and snowmen.
If you’re stuck inside on a cold day, this cool printable game from Gift of Curiosity will keep the boredom at bay. Print out the cards and place them on a cube (or just shuffle them in a stack)—each card directs kids to do a different action.
Kids can sharpen their scissor skills and learn about symmetry with these cool activity pages from Itsy Bitsy Fun. Once they’re done cutting out the shapes, they can decorate them with markers or crayons too.
Keep the cabin fever away on your next snow day by trying out this genius twist on bingo from All Free Kids Crafts. Kids can cross out a bingo square for each activity they do, from drinking hot cocoa to having a dance party.
If your littles like playing with hole punches, this activity from Early Learning Ideas will definitely be a winner. They can go to town punching the holes, and then they can decorate their snowflakes with crayons or glitter glue.
You don’t have to let winter break brain drain set in thanks to this awesome activity from The Measured Mom. Similar to a board game, it can be adapted to any word list.
Make your game plan for the rest of the season with this cool idea from 3Dinosaurs. There are versions available for kids to write their wishes down or to draw them out if they’re not writing yet.
Perfect for preschoolers and kindergarteners, these wintry mazes from BrainyMaze are super fun. Each page includes a maze and a counting and writing activity.
Here’s a fun activity from Education.com to help combat cabin fever—kids can color their own snowman, then cut out the pieces and glue them all together.
You waited 9 months and baby is finally here. And even though you’re ready to have fun with that little bundle, baby—not so much (especially during those first few months). But in between the diaper changes, naps, and feedings, you and your little one can find time to play simple games that benefit baby’s development. Playing helps babies learn about the world and develop new motor skills and social skills. The key is knowing at what age they’re ready for baby games like peekaboo and blowing bubbles. Here’s an age-by-age guide for the best games to play with babies at different times during their first year.
Games for Babies: 0-3 Months
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1. Imitation Game
Your face is your baby’s favorite thing to look at. Keep it about a foot away from your newborn so they see you properly, and then stick out your tongue or form an O with your mouth. Before you know it, baby will copy you. Bonus points for making silly noises to go along with your expressions.
2. Singing
Newborns might not be able to see you from across the room, but they can hear you, and they recognize (and love) your voice. Sing a lullaby or “Wheels on the Bus,” belt out your favorite song or commercial jingle, or make up a song about your daily activities. It doesn’t matter if you’re out of tune, your voice gives your baby comfort and joy.
3. Flashcards
While even the smartest newborn nerd isn’t ready for math or reading flashcards yet, simple images from cards or books get their attention. Black and white images, simple patterns and bright colors are easiest for them to see at this age. They also love images of other babies. All you have to do is hold up the card, point at the picture, and talk about the image. Or put it down in front of them to explore during tummy time.
4. Hanging Toys
Your little one might not be reaching out for toys yet, but looking at them is one of their favorite baby games. Hang a mobile above the crib or find an activity gym with hanging toys and lay baby on their back to enjoy. Baby-safe mirrors are great, too. Babies won’t know it’s their face, but that won’t dampen their enthusiasm for staring at it or reaching out for it.
5. Repetitive Routine
While the endless cycle of eating, burping, sleeping, diapers and baths may not be thrilling for you, it’s your baby’s whole world. Add some fun to the routine by singing a song during bath time, dancing after a diaper change, or stopping to look at framed photos of family members. Whatever you do, the key is doing it consistently.
Your little one is a bit more responsive at this age. Change up those simple newborn activities for slightly more interactive baby games. This is a great time to introduce games like “This Little Piggy.” They don’t require independent movement from baby, but kids find the story super fun.
7. Moving Tummy Time
Put tummy time in motion to mix things up. Once your baby has pretty good head control, lay them on their stomach on a small blanket. Then slowly pull them around the room. Make motor or train noises for even more silly fun.
8. Blowing Bubbles
You don’t need to wait until baby’s old enough to chase after bubbles to introduce then. At this age, babies are starting to see better, so they will be fascinated with the moving rainbows of bubbles. Blow the bubbles near them but not directly at them to keep the soap out of their eyes.
9. Echo Noises
When your baby makes a happy noise, make one back. If they blow bubbles with their lips, blow some back. You’ll get big smiles real quick from this imitation game.
10. How Big Is Baby?
It’s amazing how fast those early months fly by. Your six-month-old will seem huge in comparison with how little they were just a few months ago, making the classic “How Big Is Baby?” game all the more poignant. To play, hold baby’s hands and ask in a sweet voice, “How big is baby?” Then put their hands up over their head and say, “This big!” Mix it up by replacing “big” with different adjectives smart, sweet, etc.
Games for Babies: 7-9 Months
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11. Patty Cake
You don’t need to retire those songs from the newborn stage, but continue to up the game with tunes that have motions and finger play to go along with them. Start by showing the motions to songs like “Patty Cake,” “Itsy-Bitsy Spider” and “Wheels on the Bus.” You can also help babies do the motions with their hands.
12. Peekaboo
By now your baby is beginning to have an understanding of object permanence, knowing that when things are out of sight, they aren’t gone forever. If your little one hasn’t already discovered the joy that is peekaboo, this is the perfect time to try it out. Hide your face behind your hands, hide baby’s face behind your hands, or pop out from behind a door or curtain. You can also hide or partially hide objects (like putting a musical toy under a blanket) to see if your child will look for them.
13. Flying Baby
At this age, your baby should have enough control and strength for some flying time on your knees. Lay flat on your back or slightly propped up on a pillow. Use your bent legs to support your baby’s body, hold their hands, and gently fly them around. You can go up and down, side-to-side or a combination of the two. Sound effects and silly songs are mandatory with this activity.
14. Roll the Ball
Once your child is able to sit, sit across from them and roll a ball toward them. At first, baby probably won’t roll it back, but they might pick it up and play with it or chew on it. When they lose interest in the ball, pick it up and roll it back to them to start the game over. Eventually, they’ll be rolling it back to you.
Nothing is more fun for your older baby than taking things out of a box and putting them back in. Fill a box or bin with a combination of balls, soft blocks, small books, scarves or baby-safe household items like a wooden spatula. Look for objects that have different textures and are big enough not to be choking hazards. Show your child how to take things out of the box and put them back in. It won’t be long before they’re dumping out and rearranging every box they can get their hands on, not to mention your purse and diaper backpack.
16. Obstacle Course
Let the baby games begin! Chances are your little explorer is on the move, or ready to be soon. Whether scooting, crawling, walking or full-on climbing, a baby-appropriate pillow obstacle course is a good energy burner. Set out couch cushions or pillows all around the floor. Demonstrate how to climb over, around or peek under them and then watch your kid go.
17. Dance Time
There are so many ways to enjoy dancing with your baby. You don’t have to stick to baby music; play your favorite tunes if you’d like. Sit on the floor together and bop your head and body or pretend to play an instrument. Baby might not be ready for air guitar yet, but it won’t take much prompting to get them bopping along to the beat. You can also hold baby in your arms and spin in slow circles or sway back and forth. Or sit them in your lap and bounce them on your knees in time to the music.
18. Stack & Attack
Stacking cups, stacking rings and blocks are a favorite for your almost one-year-old. In fact, any items that can be put on top of one another and knocked back down without breaking are fair game. Try plastic storage containers, empty yogurt containers, or small boxes and bring in your little destructor to hulk-smash them down.
19. Bath Splash
A few plastic cups, clean sponges and washcloths add baby thrills to the nightly bath. Use the cups to show how they can be filled with water and them emptied. Squeeze the sponges and washcloths on baby’s belly. Show baby how to smack the water to make a big noise.
20. Make Noisemakers
Fill a clear plastic container with dry beans or rice. Give it a shake and roll it along the floor to show your baby how to make music with it. Add a few colored pom poms to the container to make the shaking even more interesting for your baby.
There are a handful of essential people kids learn about in school and during Black History Month: Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, and George Washington Carver, just to name a few. But while these African American heroes in history have certainly made significant cultural contributions, there are many more that have fallen under the radar. To give your kids an ever-widening view of the world, learn about (and share!) these important Black history figures that have left a legacy for generations to come.
Alvin Ailey Jr. was a dancer, choreographer, and activist. Born in Texas during the Great Depression, he moved to Los Angeles in 1946 and saw his first dance performance, and in 1949 he took his first dance class at Lester Horton's Melrose Ave. studio. When he formed the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater in 1958, he wanted to honor Black culture through dance. The company's first performance included Ailey's masterpiece, Blues Suite, and his most critically acclaimed work, Revelations, premiered in 1960. The company fused theater with modern, jazz, and ballet, and brought a multi-racial cast of dancers to the stage. Due to rampant racism at the time, few of these dancers would have found opportunities to perform with other companies.
In addition to choreographing pieces for his own company, Ailey created ballets for the American Ballet Theater, the Joffrey Ballet, and the Royal Danish Ballet, among others. He received numerous awards and honors over the years, including a Guggenheim Fellowship for Creative Arts in 1968, the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP in 1977, Kennedy Center Honors in 1989, and in 2014, he was posthumously awarded the Presidental Medal of Freedom.
John Lewis was born as the son of sharecroppers in rural Alabama in 1940. He studied at the American Baptist Theological Society in Nashville and helped to organize sit-ins against segregated restaurants; during this period, he coined his iconic phrase, "Good Trouble," and was jailed on numerous occasions. One of the original 13 Freedom Riders, his most memorable contribution to the Civil Rights Movement was "Bloody Sunday," when in 1965, he led a group of 600 over the Edmund Putts Bridge in Selma, AL. Beaten and left unconscious, Lewis caught the eye of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who joined them on another march from Selma to Montgomery, AL. John Lewis was elected to the United States House of Representatives for Georgia's 5th congressional district in 1987 and was re-elected to the office until he died in 2020. Among many honors and accolades, one of the most prestigious was the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011.
Daisy Bates
When the Supreme Court ruled that segregated schools were unconstitutional, Daisy Bates stepped up to help a group of Black students integrate into an all-white high school—that group is known as The Little Rock Nine. In the face of constant fear and intimidation, Bates worked tirelessly to escort those young men and women to school every day and protect them from violent crowds. Daisy Bates was a lifelong civil rights activist, and her work is still recognized today. In the state of Arkansas, every third Monday in February is observed as Daisy Gatson Bates Day, and in 1999 she was Posthumously awarded the Medal Of Freedom.
Ruby Bridges was the first Black student to integrate into a white elementary school in 1960. At only six years old, Ruby walked by protesters screaming awful slurs and angry words at her every day. And yet, she never missed a day of school. Ruby became a lifelong civil rights activist, and in 1999, she established the Ruby Bridges Foundation to help fight racism and promote tolerance and change through education.
Charles Drew is considered a pioneer of blood plasma research and the modern blood bank. While in attendance at Columbia University, Charles Drew discovered the “shelf life” of blood could be extended by as much as seven days by separating and storing whole blood and plasma separately. Before that, blood could only be stored for up to two days. Charles Drew also wrote a dissertation Banked Blood: A Study in Blood Preservation, where he described the technique he developed and the logistics involved in the long-term preservation of blood plasma. Today Charles Drew is revered as the Father of Blood Banking.
Look to the skies, and you'll be reminded about Bessie Coleman, the first Black and Native American woman pilot. Known for her amazing flying tricks, "Queen Bess" worked as a manicurist in Chicago when her brothers returned from World War I. When her brother John teased her that women in France were allowed to be pilots, Bessie took it as her mission to do just that. When no American flight school would take her, she learned French and moved to France to take flight lessons there.
When Bessie returned to the United States, she gave speeches and eventually performed her aviation tricks in air shows around the country. She famously refused to perform at any show where there was segregation or discrimination against African Americans. Bessie Coleman died in an air accident at age 34, and she was eulogized by the famous activist Ida B. Wells-Barnett.
Frederick Douglass was a freed slave who spent his life outside of bondage as an author, an orator, and a leader of the abolitionist movement. Even after the Emancipation Proclamation in 1862, Douglass continued to champion equality, human rights, and even women’s rights. Douglass authored dozens of speeches and five autobiographies, the most notable of which is Douglass’ 1845 autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave. Here are 19 other interesting facts about Frederick Douglass.
Claudette Colvin was an early activist in the civil rights movement in Alabama. Nine months before Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat to a white woman, Claudette Colvin did the same. At the young age of 15, Colvin was later arrested; violating the city’s segregation laws was among the many charges leveled against her. Colvin later told Newsweek, “I felt like Sojourner Truth was pushing down on one shoulder, and Harriet Tubman was pushing down on the other—saying, 'Sit down girl!' I was glued to my seat.”
As a young child, Wilma Rudolph battled a series of debilitating illnesses including double pneumonia, scarlet fever, and polio. She was forced to wear a leg brace, and doctors even told her she would never walk again. But Rudolph overcame her disabilities, and she was intent on pursuing her dreams. Her determination and natural athleticism eventually brought her to the 1960 Olympics, where she became the first woman to win three Gold Medals in Track and Field in a single Olympics.
A former slave, engineer, author, and American soldier, in 1877, Henry Ossian Flipper became the first African-American to graduate from West Point. Upon his completion, Flipper was also the first Black man to be commissioned in the Army (or any military branch, for that matter). After his commissioning, under the command of Captian Nicolas M. Nolan, he became the first Black man to lead buffalo soldiers of the 10th Calvery.
On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus to a white woman. This act of defiance sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and created an impetus for change. One year after Parks' trial, the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama, Northern (Montgomery) Division, declared racial segregation laws (commonly known as "Jim Crow laws") unconstitutional. Considered to be one of the most important Black history figures, the United States Congress has called her "the first lady of civil rights" and "the mother of the freedom movement."
In 1891, Daniel Hale Williams opened Provident Hospital in Chicago, IL. It was the first hospital with a racially integrated staff, a school for nurses, and also a training residency for doctors. In 1893, Williams was one of the first people to perform open-heart surgery, and he accomplished this feat outside of modern medicine and without the luxury of blood transfusions. He was also a co-founder of the National Medical Association, and in 1913 he was selected to be a charter member (and the only African American) of the College of Surgeons.
Alice Allison Dunnigan was the first Black female White House Correspondent. She was also chief of the Associated Negro Press, and in 1948 she became the first Black woman to follow a Presidential campaign (Harry Truman’s) on the road. Years later, Alice Allison Dunnigan served as an education consultant on JFK’s Committee on Equal Employment Opportunity.
In 1862, during the Civil War, Robert Smalls commandeered a Confederate transport boat freeing himself, his crew, and their families. He sailed the ship to the Union-controlled region of Hilton Head, where it then became a warship. He was instrumental in convincing President Lincoln to let free Blacks serve in the Union Army. During the Reconstruction Era, Smalls was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives and the United States House of Representatives, where he authored legislation that would allow South Carolina to have the first free public school system in the United States.
Jane Bolin was the first Black woman to graduate from Yale Law School, and in 1939, she became the first Black female judge. She was a huge advocate for children's rights: she served on the board of the Child's Welfare League, the National Urban League, and the NAACP, among others. Bolin also worked closely with then-First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to establish the Wiltwyck School, a program to help eradicate juvenile crime among boys. Upon retirement, she volunteered as a reading instructor in New York public schools and served on the New York State Board of Regents.
Arturo Schomburg was a writer, historian, and activist. As a leader of the Harlem Renaissance, Schomberg collected art literature and other artifacts belonging to people of African descent. In 1926 his collection was purchased by the New York Public Library, and today the Schomburg Center is a research division of the NY Public Library. With more than 11 million items in the collection, the Schomburg Center is devoted to the preservation and exhibition of Black history and the arts and culture of the African diaspora.
Matthew Henson is best known for his participation in a series of Arctic explorations between 1891 and 1909. But his claim to fame was the expedition that culminated in April 1909, where the team he was with finally reached the North Pole. Through these expeditions, Henson made significant contributions to the field of exploration. To honor those contributions, Matthew Henson was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.
A true pioneer in both race and gender, Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to Congress representing NY’s 12th District. In 1972, she was also the first woman to run for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination. During her time in Congress, Chisholm fought for improved education, health and human services, and women's rights. Chisholm famously said, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”
In 1938, American inventor Fred Jones designed and patented a portable air-conditioning unit for trucks primarily used to transport perishable foods. Jones’ invention became invaluable during WWII when refrigeration units were used to preserve and transport food, blood, and medicine to hospitals and soldiers on the battlefield. In 1944, he became the first African American member of the American Society of Refrigeration Engineers. He was awarded 61 patents throughout his life, and in 1991, he was posthumously awarded the National Medal of Technology, the first African American to do so.
Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first female African-American physician. She also wrote the Book of Medical Discourses in Two Parts in 1883, which is considered one of the first medical texts written by an African American author. After the Civil War, Dr. Crumpler also worked for the Freedman’s Bureau for the State of Virginia, the federal agency that helped over 4,000,000 slaves make the transition from slavery to freedom.
Gwendolyn Brooks
Gwendolyn Brooks was an American teacher, poet, and author. During her life, Brooks authored over 20 books of poetry and one novel. In 1950, Gwendolyn Brooks was the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize. Among countless other honors and awards, in 1968, she was named poet laureate for the state of Illinois, in 1976, she became the first African American woman to be inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters, she was the U.S. Poet Laureate for the 1985-86 term, she was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1988, and in 1995, she was awarded the National Medal of Arts.
In 1962, Katherine Johnson's brilliant math skills were called upon to help put John Glenn into orbit around the Earth. John Glenn requested that Katherine herself double-check the orbital trajectory of the Friendship 7 from liftoff to splashdown; only then would he carry on with the mission. Later in her career, Johnson also worked on the Apollo Moon Landing project as well as early plans for a mission to Mars. Katherine Johnson also co-authored 26 scientific papers, which can still be found in the NASA archives.
Mae C. Jemison is an American physician and astronaut. In 1987, Jamison was the first African American woman to be accepted into NASA’s astronaut training program. In 1992, Jemison was also the first African American woman in space, flying there aboard the spaceship Endeavor with six other astronauts.
With more than 30 bestselling titles, Maya Angelou wrote 36 books, not the least of which was her first book I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings. Although she died in 2014, Maya Angelou is remembered as a brilliant writer, poet, and civil rights activist. Oprah Winfrey said of her friend, “Maya Angelou is not what she has done or written or spoken, it’s how she did it all. She moved through the world with unshakeable calm, confidence, and a fiery, fierce grace and abounding love.”
Ron Finley
As a young man growing up in South Central LA, Ron Finley was all too familiar with the lack of fresh produce. Determined to change that, Finley started a garden on a dirt patch on the sidewalk outside of his home. When the city cited Finley for gardening without a permit, he rallied other “green activists” and petitioned for the right to grow food in his neighborhood. Finley won, and today he is affectionately known as “The Gangsta Gardener.” Now a community leader, Finley is determined to help urban communities break out of their "food prisons." Finley has traveled extensively speaking publicly on the topic, and he has even done a TEDTalk that has been watched by over three million people.
Alice Coachman was the first Black woman to win an Olympic Gold medal from any country. Born on November 9, 1923, in Albany, Georgia, she was the fifth of 10 children born to Fred and Evelyn Coachman.
At the time, it was considered "unladylike" for women to be interested in sports. Her parents agreed with this thinking and often punished Coachman for participating in activities like running and baseball. While she never considered a career in sports, by the 7th grade, she was one of the best athletes in Albany, boy or girl. Since the South was still segregated at this time, Coachman often ran shoeless and created her jumping equipment, as she was unable to use public facilities reserved for white kids.
She transferred to the Tuskegee Institute during her sophomore year of high school, and as a member of their track-and-field team, Coachman won four national championships in the high jump and sprinting categories. As one of the best track-and-field athletes in the country, she continuously won titles in the 50m, the 100m, and the 400m relay, although her favorite was the high jump.
She tried out for the 1948 US Olympic team and broke the World Record for the high jump during the trials. In August of 1948, she became the first Black woman and the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal.
Even though her Olympic career ended with an injury at 24, Coachman went on to finish college and become an elementary and high school teacher and a track coach. She was inducted into multiple Hall of Fames for her abilities and founded the Alice Coachman Track and Field Foundation to help athletes and former competitors in financial need. Coachman died in 2014 at the age of 90.
Don’t let the cold weather keep you from making memories
Winter on the horizon doesn’t mean family fun needs to stop. In fact, the cold weather can be ideal for certain activities (don’t forget our list of 100 indoor activities for kids!) that’ll keep everyone from suffering any seasonal boredom. From going on a winter scavenger hunt to hosting an awesome hot cocoa bar, here are 32 winter activities for kids and families that’ll help you bond with your crew.
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1. Bake together. Whip up a batch of cookies, brownies, or cupcakes. Make a few extra batches, and bring them to your neighbors.
2. Take a hike. Whether you live in a cold or warm winter climate, get the family outside to explore the outdoors.
4. Volunteer as a family. Teach your kiddos some compassion by volunteering as a family. There are lots of community activities that welcome help, and not just around the holiday season.
5. Make paper snowflakes and decorate your house. Give your house some winter cheer with homemade decorations. Paper snowflakes are easy and unique, and make the house look like a winter wonderland.
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6. Game on! Break out the board games and cards and have a fun family night of board games.
7. Have a movie night. Light a fire, grab blankets, pop the popcorn, and find a few movies the entire family will love. Go with a classic must-see movie.
8. Make New Year's resolutions. Gather everyone together and talk about goals for 2023. Here are a few ideas if your family needs help with writing its resolutions.
9. Go to a play or concert. Try experiencing a musical, play, or local concert that you haven't seen before.
11. Break out the printables. Print out a few printable activities on a cold afternoon.
12. Write a holiday/year-end card or letter. Why should holiday cards be something only the parents do? Have the kiddos write their own year-end cards and mail them to friends and family.
14. Play in the snow. There's nothing that says winter more than making snow angels and having snowball fights together. If snow doesn't fall in your city, check out these snowflake science experiments.
15. Have the kids take one photo a day during the months of January and February. Then use your phone’s movie feature to create a film with music, and don't forget to upload your memories into the Tinybeans app!
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16. Go on a nature scavenger hunt. Have the kids pick up pinecones, and sticks and take photos of what you find on the trails.
17. Go to a museum. From children's museums to museums of natural history, there's bound to be something your family will love to visit. Be sure to check your local museum's hours and if there are specific restrictions in place (for example, many museums are open again but require timed reservations to keep crowds down).
18. Set up a dance party.Find a playlist, crank up the music, and let them wiggle, shake, and move to their heart's content.
19. Make a vision board. It's fun to visualize what the new year might bring!
21. Pick an indoor game to play. If you've got multiple kids at home, pick an indoor game for them to set up and play.
22. Have a video game night. If an arcade isn't in your near future, surprise your kids by telling them you're going to play video games with them! Get a brand new game or better yet, check your local library. Most public libraries have a variety of games available for systems including the Xbox and the Nintendo Switch, a great way to try a game without having to buy it.
23. Try a new restaurant. Splurge on dinner out as a family or if you prefer, to-go, from a restaurant no one has tried before.
24. Make friendship bracelets. Older kids can make fun accessories to give to their friends.
25. Treat the family to a hot cocoa bar. Make fancy hot chocolate (like with milk on the stove) and set up whipped cream, marshmallows, sprinkles, cherries, and everything else to make for a fun night of indoor sipping.
26. Embrace the world of pretend play. If you set up one of these ideas, it'll keep younger kids will be busy for an afternoon.
27. Brighten up a cold winter’s night by playing a glow-in-the-dark game. How about flashlight charades or sardines?
28. Host a fancy appetizer party. You don’t need the holidays as an excuse to have a party with these awesome recipes. Another idea is to surprise the kids and serve a variety of appetizers for dinner. You can even dress up and have a polite conversation.
29. Practice yoga together. Get your family's zen on with a kid-friendly yoga video and practice as a family.
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30. Build an indoor fort. Need ideas? We’ve got 13 awesome fort ideas your kids will want to make their permanent home.
31. Gather pinecones and make a craft. Try hanging them from your door or make a bird feeder.
32. Make breakfast for dinner. Shake things up and turn the most important meal into nighttime fun. Here are 30 super easy and tasty recipes your family will love.
Make sure to capture all the chilly fun—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
No idea what to get them? Experience gifts are the answer
If you’re struggling to find a gift for the person who has everything, or if you’re just looking for a super unique option, experience gifts are the way to go. Why? Because even if they have every single thing on your list of possible ideas, you really can’t go wrong with something for them to do.
Experience gifts are totally customizable. You pick the place, the adventure, the theme, and these 11 websites let you create the perfect gift for your loved ones. Whether it’s a spa experience, a ride in a racecar, virtual classes, or mystery picnics, there’s literally something for everyone—kids included. Some options send vouchers straight to their email, and others allow you to pick out physical packaging so they have something to open, if you prefer. Plus, you’re able to select your recipient’s location, so you can check out availability before you buy. No matter what your favorite people are into, there’s definitely some fabulous experiences packed into these websites. Take a look at our favorite picks.
Giftory
Giftory
Giftory lets you book by location (including virtual/from home). You select the gift, then the recipient receives a voucher that allows them to pick the date and time of their experience. Pick from cocktail classes, hot air balloon rides, helicopter tours, sunset cruises, Porsche driving, and even baking with the stars of the Great British Baking Show virtual masterclass (shown above).
Virgin Experience Gifts include in-person experiences as well as virtual options. Zombie scavenger hunts, bungee jumping, horseback riding, and spa experiences are all potential gifts (including an ARTECHOUSE Immersive Art Experience in NYC, pictured here).
In-person or virtually, Cozymeal experiences are perfect for foodies. Classes, private chefs, food tours—whatever your favorite home chef or aspiring cook could dream up, it's on Cozymeal.
We're big fans of how Wonderbox packages their experience gifts—these cute boxes hold the key to weekend getaways, Broadway shows, holiday-based experiences—all across the country. Plus, Wonderbox lets the recipients choose how they want to use their vouchers.
You know Groupon is one of the best places to save on local outings, so why wouldn't it also be a great place to pick gifts out for the holidays? Escape rooms, restaurants, amusement parks, and more. Just pick the location of your recipiant and select 'Give as a Gift' under 'Add to Cart'.
Add a little mystery to your experience gifts with AmazingCo's mystery picnics (for couples, friends, and families), or pick from challenge parties, game-a-palooza, sip and solve events, and more.
From spa packages to classes and workshops, sightseeing cruises and bike tours, Tinggly has everyone covered. Each individual experience 'collection' has a ton of options for your recipients to pick from, plus we're not mad at the cute packaging.
Gifting a new skill is the present that keeps on giving. Classpop! lets you choose from pottery classes, art classes, dance classes, and more. Classes are offered in over 70 cities nationwide.
One of our favorite destinations for unique gifts, Uncommon Goods offers a whole page of giftable 'Uncommon Experiences'. Each gift comes with the supplies for an upcoming class, with multiple dates and times to choose from.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
In the midst of all the carpools and soccer practices and dance lessons and schoolwork and the constant swirl of activity with busy families, there are words. Conversations. Discussions. And lots and lots of opportunities for you to encourage and motivate your potential entrepreneur, budding CEO, or just all-around smart girl.
It can be easy to let the days slide on by without being intentional in our communication with our kids. But when you have a moment to slow down and focus, here are eight different ways you can tell your daughter how amazing she is, instill a measure of self-confidence, and cheer her on to become the best possible version of herself.
Catch her doing something good.
As parents, it’s natural to spend a lot of time correcting our kids or pointing out mistakes. Flip the switch and look for something positive.
“I really appreciate that you put the dishes in the dishwasher after school, and not just the sink.”
“Thanks for helping your brother with that math problem.”
“You only slept in five minutes past your alarm! Great job.”
Positive affirmation is contagious; she may start doing the same with you!
Point out something positive in a negative situation.
Failure is part of life, especially for people like pioneers or entrepreneurs who are stepping out on limbs, taking risks and forging new paths. If you want a daughter who’s not afraid to fail, begin now to assuage that fear by helping her see the upside of something that was less than successful.
“Well, we didn’t sell much lemonade, but your idea to sell those chewy brownies was brilliant. The one customer we did have needed two more cups of lemonade to wash it down!”
When children feel good about themselves and know that you’re okay with trying and failing (and, in fact, encourage it versus not trying new things at all), they’re more willing to persevere and take new risks.
“What are your roses, thorns, and buds today?”
At dinnertime or before bed, ask your daughter about one of her day’s successes (a rose), one problem or mistake (a thorn), and one thing she is looking forward to tomorrow (bud). You can share yours, too. It’ll help her see that there are peaks and valleys throughout life, and success isn’t about avoiding the downturns; it’s about how you handle them, bounce back, and move forward.
Show her the big picture.
If she wonders why she needs to take math even though she wants to write children’s books someday, or she complains about gym class and says she’s not a “natural athlete,” talk about why math skills and fitness are important in life, no matter what career path she chooses.
Sometimes kids can be a little myopic in their view of the world, but you can help encourage your daughter to see the bigger picture when you help her think outside her limited scope of vision. Sometimes the answer to “Why do I have to take this class?!” is simply, “in order to learn how to learn. Learning new things is something you’ll do for the rest of your life, and every single class you take can help you become a better learner.”
“What’s your plan?”
Ask her about how she plans on solving problems on her own. (The problems she’s capable of handling independently, anyway.)
“Mom, my soccer jersey is dirty, and I have a game tomorrow!” Instead of rifling through her hamper yourself, maybe answer, “That seems like something you’ll need to take care of in the next 12 to 24 hours then. What’s your plan?” Or, let’s say she’s promised the neighbors she’ll babysit for them on Saturday, but now she wants to back out because she got invited to a birthday party. “Hmm. How do you think it would be best to handle that?”
Problem-solving is an important and valuable skill for anyone, let alone a successful entrepreneur.
Help her identify her passions.
She might not know yet what it is that gets her pumped up or makes her heart beat fast (which is normal, of course), so helping her identify those things could be very helpful and supportive. “Hey, I noticed that you got a little choked up when we watched that video about the rescue dog. What would you think about volunteering at the Human Society once a month?” Or, “I love that you like to help me with dinner! Maybe we should take a cooking class together?”
“I’m proud of you.”
It’s one thing to praise or celebrate her accomplishments, but what about her character?
“You’re such a loyal friend, I’m so proud of how supportive and encouraging you are.”
“When you hugged your sister after her bad day at school yesterday, I was so proud of you. You have a big, compassionate heart.”
Most of us—kids especially—indulge in too much negative self-talk. When you tell your kids what’s great about them, you interrupt that internal negative loop and help build their self-confidence.
“I believe in you.”
Think about it for a second: Who was the last person who said that to you? A parent, your spouse, maybe a mentor? Those are four powerful words that probably aren’t spoken enough, and if you’ve ever heard them, they likely lifted your spirits, ignited a fire, re-fueled a waning determination, or simply gave you the chutzpah you needed to tackle a project or face an intimidating challenge.
Whether your daughter is risk-averse or a little daredevil, whether she’s innovative or prefers the status quo, whether she’s ready to take on the world or needs a nudge out of her comfort zone—she needs to hear this from you.
I've always built businesses, from a childhood gummy bear business to adult gigs at IMAX and Coupons.com. I founded The Startup Squad to help girls reach their potential and my book series, The Startup Squad, is published by Macmillan. I live in Silicon Valley with my wife and two daughters.
A vacation with your partner or friends should be on your list for 2024
With the holidays on the horizon and all of that togetherness planned, now is the perfect time to book an adults-only vacation for the new year. Parents need time away. Adults-only vacations can strengthen your relationship with your partner, your favorite group of moms, or even your own mother. You can remember what you were like before you had kids. You can relax on the beach and actually read a book. Yes, a whole book!
These adults-only all-inclusive resorts know what parents want: delicious dinners that last well past sunset, afternoons spent at the spa, swim-up suites, and nobody calling you “mommy” or “daddy.” Here are some of our favorite resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, the U.S, and beyond.
Whether you plan to spread out your towel at the infinity pool or at one of the oceanside cabanas, you are in for a treat at Hyatt Zilaria Cancun. All of the 310 rooms are extra-large suites and they even have swim-up suites if you want that easy access to the water. Evening entertainment is available if you are looking to take advantage of your late bedtime. The property even has a romance concierge who is at your beck and call to arrange a dinner under the stars or couples’ massage on the beach.
Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort is the place to go if you are looking for an adults-only, wellness-inclusive sanctuary. Situated alongside the white sand and turquoise-blue waters of Bávaro Beach. Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort offers a fully immersive “Wellbeing 360 Experience,” that includes activities like yoga, meditation, culinary classes, bike tours, botanical garden workshops, and fire ritual ceremonies. Those looking for a more introspective space can visit the resort’s Silent Spaces which offer solo painting, sound healing spots, reading pods, and spiritual labyrinth rituals. We are relaxed just thinking about it!
We know you’re going to feel pampered at this adults-only all-inclusive resort as your reservation comes with your own guest ambassador ready to book your couples massage or organize a champagne breakfast in bed. All the rooms are private villas so you’ll feel miles away from your everyday life. Gastronomy is a huge focus here with Michelin star dining options available. Don’t leave without enjoying a Carribean-flavored cocktail at the three-tiered infinity pool.
Whether you are planning a moms’ weekend or are looking to bring a little more zen back into your relationship, Miraval delivers. The Sonoran desert is well known for its healing properties and you’ll be able to feel it and when you visit. The pace is slow and the sun is plentiful—this area near the Santa Catalina Mountains typically sees about 350 days of sunshine a year. Unplug and enjoy yoga, meditation, and breathwork before you head to the spa for an intuitive massage or reiki treatment.
This five diamond resort is set on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Retreat to your luxury suite with a balcony or terrace that’s perfect for watching the waves crash along the shore. You’ll enjoy many different types of gourmet cuisine including French, Italian, seafood, and Pan-Asian. Book a couples massage and then enjoy the whirlpool with sauna and steam room. If you want to take advantage of your later bedtime, the resort offers shows, dance lessons, theme nights, and movies on the beach.
The adults–only, all-inclusive Treasure Beach is set on a stunning stretch of the Platinum Coast with a variety of gorgeous suites to choose from. Foodies can perfect the art of pastry-making and food-styling, savor signature dishes with an interactive Chef’s Table experience, and try wine-tasting and pairing sessions with the resort’s sommelier. Enjoy complimentary water sports or tours of the island’s art galleries. Following the day’s activities, guests can enjoy nightly cocktail sundowners against a picture-perfect Barbados sunset.
This visually stunning property welcomes guests to Greece’s largest island, Crete, for some rest and relaxation. Massive lagoon pools wind their way around the property, making you feel like you are floating on water. You can choose from pool-view rooms, swim-up rooms, and overwater bungalow suites with hot tubs. Dining centers around local Mediterranean cuisine including some top-notch Green wines. You’ll definitely want to try out some of the wellness offerings including spa treatments which include access to the sauna, jacuzzi, hammam, and indoor heated pool.
From as far back as the late 19th century, elite families like the Rockefellers and the Vanderbilts would make the bumpy journey via stagecoach to remote Castle Hot Springs, an oasis in the desert well known for its restorative water. The once-popular resort eventually declined and then burned down in 1976. The resort was brought back in February 2019, and those looking for relaxation and a zen-like atmosphere have enjoyed it ever since. Once there, couples will find just 32 bungalows and cabins, along with the signature natural hot springs. The restorative water flows into bedroom soaking tubs, the main swimming pool, and three rock grotto pools. The water can also flow into your veins if you swig the resort’s own Lithium Lagerbeer, made from the natural spring water. Spa services incorporating spring water are available, as well as horseback riding and yoga.
‘Tis the season to indulge your preschooler’s love for their favorite shows, be it PAW Patrol, Gabby’s Dollhouse, or Rubble & Crew. Are those catchy theme songs living rent-free in your head? Don’t worry, it’s the same for us, too.
While you’ll likely be in the company of these shows for a few more years, you can take solace in the valuable life lessons they provide and (drumroll, please…) the independent play they inspire. And as your little one soaks in these inspirational characters and action-packed storylines, a world of creativity and independent play awaits.
This holiday season, thanks to an exciting line of show-to-shelf toys featuring their cherished characters, your preschooler can now transform these meaningful messages into reality right at home. Whether it’s launching missions from the PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Aircraft Carrier HQ or hopping aboard the Gabby’s Dollhouse Gabby Cat Friendship, their favorite shows will become the backdrop for thrilling solo adventures.
To help you get ahead of your holiday shopping (and gift yourself the joys of an entertained preschooler!), we’ve compiled the best TV-inspired toys for independent play. Read on as we dive deeper into how they’re perfect for sparking your little one’s creativity and imagination—all within the comforts of their playroom.
Calling all future heroes of Adventure City. The award-winning PAW Patrol Aircraft Carrier HQ is a must-have for epic rescue missions.
Inspired by the action-packed PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie that’s in theatres now, this playset is a game-changer for independent play. Little ones can transform the Aircraft Carrier HQ into a massive, supercharged rescue mission headquarters with the push of a command center button. The playset immediately elevates the control room, creates two launch ramps, and reveals an impressive meteor core that lights up and plays seriously cool sounds.
The fun doesn’t stop there, though. Your little hero can grab Chase, who comes with his very own action figure and authentic police car rescue vehicle, to blast two projectile launchers that’ll save the day.
In need of some portable playtime for your kiddo? The brand new preschool learning app, PAW Patrol Academy, features heroic missions, engaging lessons, silly games to “get the wiggles out,” and real episode clips from episodes of PAW Patrol. With tons of age-appropriate, interactive adventures, this app is a brand-new way for your preschoolers to experience PAW Patrol and learn along the way. Available on iOS and Android for $49.99 annual/$7.99 month with a 7-day unlimited access free trial.
Ahoy, parents. It’s time to set sail on the purrfect adventure with the Gabby Cat Friend Ship. As seen in DreamWorks Animation’s popular series, this all-new playset brings the magic of Gabby’s Dollhouse to life.
Your number one fan can join Gabby Girl (who comes costumed with two fabulous outfits, of course) and Captain Mercat on the upper deck, complete with a color-changing pool and a diving board. They can then venture below deck for an electrifying dance party where they can show off their moves—with confidence, as Gabby encourages— thanks to a light-up disco ball, dance floor, and photo booth.
Little ones can further elevate their sea-filled adventure with the Carnival and Spa deluxe rooms (sold separately) that can be easily attached to the ship or the Purrfect Dollhouse. The ship can also be linked to the Purrfect Dollhouse from the diving board. Trust us, your child will be entertained for hours on end.
Rubble and his family of construction-loving pups are all about working together. In this two-foot-tall Rubble & Crew Barkyard Crane Tower, your young contractor can help the crew create impressive buildings for the town.
Loaded with 12 ounces of Kinetic Build-It Sand (specifically formulated to stick together so it’s easily molded for construction play), four molds, interchangeable tools, and the trusty Rubble vehicle and pup, it’s an invitation for open-ended, sensory play that’ll keep your child busy.
Did we mention it’s also a sensory symphony? It features cool lights, sounds, music, and phrases straight from the series. Get ready to embark on a construction adventure like no other.
Buckle up and join Bo and Flash for action-packed adventures with the Firebuds Bo & Flash Rescue Adventure Firetruck. Based on the Disney Junior’s preschool show, this firetruck is no ordinary vehicle when it comes to saving lives.
During a high-speed rescue, Flash springs to life with motorized moves straight out of the show, even nailing the iconic “fist bump.” With special technology, it recognizes when it’s moving forward or backward to unlock cool sounds, and can set off an ensemble of lights, sounds, movements, and phrases from the series when Bo hops in the firetruck.
Bring home all the Disney Firebuds characters (each sold separately) from the show, so your little firefighter can take on more series-inspired rescues.
Spin Master offers even more toys for independent play to help your preschooler create an exciting world where only their favorite characters come to life. Check out their awesome line up—and enjoy the breather these playsets will give you!
These indoor games for kids include things to do to play with friends and family, perfect for both solo and group play
Is the weather keeping you inside? No problem. The good news is that we’ve got a ton of indoor activities for kids that go beyond your normal play routine. From crafting your own robots to writing stories, here are more than 100 activities and inside games for kids that’ll keep everyone busy.
68. Before there were smartphones, there were maps. Pass the paper reading map skills down a generation by showing your kids how to read a map, old-school style.
105. Finally, for the mom and dad who have crafted, created, entertained, and danced, you deserve a pat on the back ... and maybe even a glass of wine. Make things interesting with our wine bingo printable you can download. Cheers!
The very best Chicago spots to find Instagram-worthy decorations, full-sized candy bars, and plenty of family fun on Halloween
Grab your biggest treat bag and get your bell-ringing fingers ready. Halloween is upon us. However, with All Hallows Eve falling on a Tuesday this year, trick-or-treating won’t likely start until the grown-ups are home from work. Considering that late timing—plus the ever-present threat of snow in October—it might make sense for parents of little kids to take their pint-size ghouls and goblins to one of the formally organized daytime events on the weekend prior.
Whatever your family decides to do, there are frights and delights from A to Z (or, rather, Andersonville to Lincoln Park Zoo)—so many, in fact, that you might need a second bag to carry your candy haul. We know which neighborhoods and events you should hit this Halloween to find the fewest tricks and the best treats. These 15 spots throughout Chicago are guaranteed to be well worth a costumed visit.
Buena Park Long before the pandemic inspired candy givers to get creative with their distribution tactics, the Booena Park Safe Trick-or-Treating event always went above and beyond to make trick-or-treating uniquely interactive. Case in point, the use of dryer hoses to send candy down from upper-level units. Since the pandemic they have only upped their game and have been encouraged to do so again this year with prizes for the scariest house and best overall house. Kenmore Avenue is closed from Irving Park to Montrose from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. on the 31st. Insider Tip: If you head out towards the end, residents tend to offer candy by the handful!
Edison Park For a different spin on trick-or-treating, check out the Edison Park Trunk or Treat event taking place on Oct. 26th from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Collect candy from 60 different decorated vehicles at this free neighborhood event. The first 350 kids will receive a complimentary trick-or-treat bag, and each goodie bag will contain a dining coupon to a local restaurant to be used that night only. There will also be bounce houses, face-painting, a balloon artist, and Affy Tapples.
Gold Coast Visit the over-the-top, professionally decorated mansions on Goethe Street from Dearborn to Astor. Here you will find full-size candy bars and even plush toys as the generous treats being passed out.
Andersonville At Aville-o-Ween, you can get a head-start on Halloween. On Oct. 28th from 12 p.m.-3 p.m. families can trick-or-treat all along the Andersonville Business District on Clark St. Businesses will had out a variety of regular candy, gluten-free candy, nut-free candy, and even small toys. Go online for a map of who is handing out what.
Hyde Park
Year-round, Hyde Park has that East Coast autumn vibe, and Halloween is when it really shines. The setting of hordes of kids going mansion door to mansion door of the tree-lined streets could be taken straight out of a Hollywood movie. Check out Harper Avenue between 57th and 59th Streets. Go early to avoid the crowds!
Lakeview While Lakeview is another great area in which to trick-or-treat come Halloween night, there are two organized events before Old Hallow's Eve not to be missed. Trick-or-Treat on Southport will take place one day earlier on October 30th from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. In addition to trick-or-treating at local businesses, there will be other family-friendly activities including a DJ, inflatables, and a pumpkin patch. There's even a craft beer tent and lots of business discounts for the well-deserving parents!
On Oct. 29th, from 12 p.m.-3 p.m. join The Little Monsters Crawl around the streets of Lakeview, (mostly Clark St. and Broadway), to collect candy and treats, for all ages, from local businesses.
Lincoln Park Burling St., located between Fullerton and Diversey, blocks off party-style on Halloween night, offering visiting trick-or-treaters a night of fun and candy galore. Your best bet is to hop on a bus, or jump on the "L" as evening parking can be tricky. This is destination trick-or-treating at its finest; it's particularly fun to get a glimpse of the homes all open and welcoming to the sounds and little feet of kids on the spookiest, silliest night of the year.
On Oct. 21st from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (or while supplies last), the Lincoln Park Zoo will host a free Spooky Zoo event. This year’s event will offer trick-or-treating on zoo grounds and family-friendly entertainment.
Lincoln Square/Ravenswood Ravenswood has become known for its "full-size chocolate bar houses." Even kids from neighboring Lincoln Square flock to the streets of Ravenswood to score these rare finds. Check the week's weather forecast, and if its not looking too good for Halloween night, head to Lincoln Scared Ravenswoooood on Sunday, Oct. 29th from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. when participating businesses in both Lincoln Square and Ravenswood will be passing out candy. Check the Chamber of Commerce's website for maps for both neighborhoods.
Logan Square Bernard Street between Fullerton and Wrightwood might as well be deemed the honorary Halloween-town. Families go all out in decorating their homes for the season. People travel in from far and wide on the 31st to admire the spectacle and get in on all that candy!
NorthCenter On Oct. 28th, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., don your most creative costume and hit the streets of Lincoln, Damen, and Irving in NorthCenter to collect sweet treats and other prizes. Pick up your map, and drop of non-perishable food and toiletry donations for Common Pantry, at the NorthCenter Town Square. Be sure to return back to the square for the annual costume contests, refreshments, and free Halloween-themed crafts with Macaroni KID.
River North Visit Navy Pier on Oct. 28th from 12 p.m.-8 p.m. for a Slightly Spooky Saturday, including its free Trick-or-Treat Bonanza. Over 70 candy stations around the pier will be stocked with Ferrara Candy. There will be lots more family entertainment including live performances, arts and crafts, Halloween science experiments and more. You can ever enter your pet into its own costume contest.
Rogers Park Check out the free Family Full Moon Halloween Fest on Jarvis Square on Oct. 28th from 3 p.m.-8 p.m. Wear your costumes for a Halloween candy hunt, as well as family entertainment including a stilt walker, jugglers, drummers, a face painter, and a tarot card reader. There will also be LED "fire" throwing and free s'mores around a firepit.
Roscoe Village One of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in Chicago, Roscoe Village is the perfect place to spend Halloween night. Most blocks are lined with side-by-side, single-family homes, making it easy to earn a handsome loot without too much walking. You'll find the owners of said houses, gathered together by outdoor fire pits in this tight-knit community, enjoying the evening as much as the kids. If you want to get a head-start on the Trick-or-Treating, join the Roscoe Village Halloween Block Party on Sunday, Oct. 22nd from 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Roscoe Street will be closed to traffic while businesses between Damen and Hoyne will be handing out candy to all the costumed creatures. You'll also find kid's activities in the center of the road.
Wicker Park/Bucktown Purchase tickets and reserve a time slot to trick-or-treat at The Bucktown Green (1714 N. Hoyne Ave.) on Oct. 30th from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. There will be 25 booths to visit. Online: wickerparkbucktown.com
Wilmette From near and far, people flock to Wilmette, specifically Lake Ave., east of Green Bay Rd., to see huge historic homes transformed into haunted houses with spider webs, ghosts, and goblins. The trick-or-treat theory of big houses equals big candy haul is certainly the case here. Trick-or-treat hours in Wilmette are 4 p.m.-8 p.m. on the 31st. Online:wilmette.com
Make sure to capture all the fall fun—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
